How to Count Numbers in Thai (Easy Guide for Beginners)

3/6/20262 min read

a person holding three tickets in their hand
a person holding three tickets in their hand

Introduction to Thai Numbers

Learning to count in Thai is particularly beneficial for travelers. Understanding the numbers can significantly enhance the experience of navigating through Thailand, whether in bustling markets or quiet villages. Simple tasks such as bargaining, ordering food, and asking for directions become much easier when one can confidently utilize Thai numerals. Additionally, speaking the numbers in Thai can foster a deeper connection with the locals, leading to more meaningful interactions and cultural exchanges.

In this guide, you will learn:

  • Thai numbers from 0–10

  • How Thai numbers combine to form larger numbers

  • 10 practical sentences you can use in real life

Thai Numbers 0–10

Here are the basic Thai numbers you should memorize first.

Once you know these numbers, you can start building larger numbers.

How Numbers Work in Thai

Thai numbers combine in a logical way.

For example:

  • 11 = สิบเอ็ด (sìp èt) → ten + one

  • 12 = สิบสอง (sìp sǒng) → ten + two

  • 20 = ยี่สิบ (yîi sìp)

  • 21 = ยี่สิบเอ็ด (yîi sìp èt)

One special rule:
When 1 comes after 10, Thai people usually say เอ็ด (èt) instead of หนึ่ง (nùeng).

Example:
21 = ยี่สิบเอ็ด (yîi sìp èt)

10 Example Sentences Using Thai Numbers

Here are 10 practical sentences you might hear in everyday Thai conversations.

  • ฉันมีพี่น้องสองคน
    chǎn mee pîi-nóng sǒng kon
    I have two siblings.

  • ฉันอยากได้ข้าวสามจาน
    chǎn yàak dâi khâao sǎam jaan
    I want three plates of rice.

  • กาแฟแก้วนี้ราคา 50 บาท
    gaa-fae gâew née raa-kaa hâa sìp bàat
    This coffee costs 50 baht.

  • ฉันอยู่ที่ประเทศไทยมาแล้วสองปี
    chǎn yùu tîi bprà-têet tai maa láew sǒng bpee
    I have lived in Thailand for two years.

  • วันนี้ฉันทำงานแปดชั่วโมง
    wan-née chǎn tam-ngaan bpàet chûa-moong
    Today I work eight hours.

  • เรามีนัดตอนหกโมงเย็น
    rao mee nát dton hòk moong yen
    We have an appointment at 6 PM.

  • ฉันซื้อกล้วยห้าลูก
    chǎn séuay glûay hâa lûuk
    I bought five bananas.

  • ในห้องนี้มีนักเรียนสิบคน
    nai hông née mee nák-rian sìp kon
    There are ten students in this room.

  • ฉันไปเชียงใหม่ปีละหนึ่งครั้ง
    chǎn bpai chiang-mài bpee lá nùeng kráng
    I go to Chiang Mai once a year.

  • วันนี้วันที่เจ็ดของเดือนนี้
    wan-née wan-tîi jèt khǎawng duean née
    Today is the seventh day of this month.

Tips for Practicing Thai Numbers

Learning numbers in Thai is very important because Thai people use them in many situations like ordering food, shopping, transportation, and telling time.

Try practicing numbers whenever you go outside in Thailand. For example, read prices at the market, bus numbers, or house numbers. The more you practice, the more natural it will feel.

Ready to bring these Thai phrases to life? 💬

Join me for a fun and friendly conversation practice session, where you can try using these expressions naturally and confidently with guidance and real feedback.