Prologue |15
Language refers to the tool that people use to communicate in life, interact with other
groups. Both spoken and unspoken language reflects perspectives, wisdom and culture of
each ethnic group. Thailand has Thai language as a national language with the following
classifications.
“Thai Language” refers to official language of Thailand
“Local Thai Language” refers to dialects communicable and understandable in each
locality. It can be differed in words and sound, such as Northern Thai dialect, Northeastern
Thai dialect, Central Thai dialect and Southern Thai dialect.
“Ethnic Group Language” refers to dialects communicating among ethnic
groups living in Thailand, such as Tai language, Chino-Tibetan language and Mong-Mian
language.
Moreover, Thai language also has levels of vocabulary and rankings used in particular
groups and activities. For example, terms of reverence are set for royal family members.
Individuals can be called like family members such as brother, sister, uncle, aunty, grandfather,
grandmother, even though they do not have a kinship retaionship.
“Wisdom of each locality
is the heritage that
ancestors had been
creating, collecting
and retaining through
generations. Thai and
the local people should
realize its value and be
proud of sustaining the
heritage.”