Master the wai gesture and its levels, learn how to greet monks, elders, peers, and children appropriately.
10 min · 2 sections · 9 words · 1 dialogue · 1 question
1
The Wai (ไหว้) Gesture
The wai is Thailand's signature greeting — palms pressed together in a prayer-like gesture with a slight bow. The height of the hands and depth of the bow indicate the level of respect.
Words · 5
Question
2
Greeting Different People
Thais adjust their greeting style based on who they are speaking to. Monks receive the highest respect, followed by elders, then peers.
Words · 4
Dialogue · Meeting an elder neighbor
A young person greets their older neighbor in the morning