Understanding the Thai Letter ฐ (tho than)
When learning the Thai language, becoming acquainted with each letter in the Thai alphabet is a primary step toward becoming proficient. One of these letters is ฐ, known as 'ฐาน' in Thai. This article is aimed at helping beginners understand this unique letter, its pronunciation, and how it is used in the Thai language.
The Thai Letter ฐ: Pronunciation Guide
The letter ฐ is categorized as a high-class consonant in the Thai language. Its equivalent sound in English is closest to an unaspirated 'T' sound, similar to when pronouncing the 't' in 'stop' rather than the 't' in 'top'. However, it's important to note that this letter is rarely used in modern Thai words. It typically represents the sound /tʰ/ - an aspirated, voiceless alveolar plosive, although when it is the final letter of a word, it is often pronounced as a simple /t/.
Words Using the Letter ฐ
Now, let's look at a few Thai words that incorporate the letter ฐ:
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ขั้นพื้นฐาน (khan phuen-than): This compound term comprises two parts – "ขั้น" (khan) meaning 'level' or 'step', and "พื้นฐาน" (phuen-than) meaning 'basic' or 'fundamental'. Altogether, it translates to 'basic level' or 'foundation'.
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ฐาน (than): This word uses the letter ฐ as its initial consonant and means 'base' or 'foundation'.
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รัฐ (rat): Another word that contains the letter ฐ is 'รัฐ' (rat), meaning 'state' as in a nation-state, or government.