I'm learning
ไทย
ช้า — meaning in English: slow
cha · Learn this word with quizzes, examples and more on Maspeak.
Guess the translation for
slow
เผชิญหน้า
phɛ̀ɛchəən nâa
ช้า
cha
หก
hok
ดู
duu
ความเหมือน
khwām mʉ̌an
Skip this question
🎓
Learn Thai for free
Quizzes, examples, audio & daily challenges. No password needed — just your email.
Start learning →
neutral
very common
Usage
Native speakers use the word ช้า (cha) when describing the speed of an action or event, such as when discussing traffic conditions or a person's pace. For instance, if someone is taking their time to finish a task, you might hear a friend say, 'ทำไมช้าขนาดนี้?' (Why are you so slow?). It's also common in everyday conversations when talking about transportation or giving instructions.
Synonyms & nuances
A close synonym is เชื่อง (cheung), which also means slow but carries a connotation of being sluggish or lethargic. You would choose ช้า (cha) when you want to describe a pace that is simply slow without the negative implications that เชื่อง (cheung) might suggest.
Culture
The word ช้า (cha) not only describes slowness but also reflects a cultural appreciation for taking things at a leisurely pace, which is often seen as more pleasant in Thai society. Historically, this attitude towards time can be traced back to traditional practices where the emphasis was on enjoying the moment rather than rushing through activities, such as during festivals or communal gatherings.
FAQ
