Etiquette
The Wai (ไหว้) – Thailand's Traditional Greeting
The wai (ไหว้, pronounced "wâi") is Thailand's most recognizable greeting — a graceful pressing of the palms together, accompanied by a slight bow.
How to Wai
- Press your palms together with fingers pointing upward
- Position your hands at chest level or higher
- Slightly bow your head toward your fingertips
- The higher the hands and deeper the bow, the more respect shown
When to Wai
- Greeting elders or people of higher social status
- Saying goodbye to someone you respect
- Thanking someone sincerely
- Apologizing formally
- At temples when praying or showing respect to monks
When NOT to Wai
- To children (they wai you first)
- To service workers serving you (a nod and smile is fine)
- While holding objects in both hands
Levels of the Wai
| Level | Hand Position | Used For |
|-------|--------------|----------|
| Casual | Chest level | Friends, peers |
| Respectful | Nose level | Elders, teachers |
| Highest | Forehead level | Monks, royalty, Buddha images |
Key Vocabulary
- ไหว้ (wâi) — to wai / to pray
- สวัสดี (sà-wàt-dii) — hello / goodbye
- ขอบคุณ (kɔ̀ɔp-kun) — thank you
- ครับ/ค่ะ (kráp/kâ) — polite particles (male/female)