When starting to learn Thai, you might be tempted to rely on Romanization (writing Thai words using the Latin alphabet) because it seems easier. However, if you're serious about becoming proficient in the language, learning the Thai script offers many advantages beyond just reading.
More Accurate Pronunciation
Thai script represents sounds more precisely than Romanization. By learning Thai script, you'll be able to see the actual tones and vowel lengths, which is crucial for pronunciation and understanding. One of the challenges with Romanization is the lack of a standard system. Different textbooks and resources may use different Romanization conventions, which can be confusing.
More Confidence in Real-Life Situations
If you rely solely on Romanization, you’ll struggle when traveling, reading signs, and menus, or even communicating online. Thai script is everywhere in Thailand, and being able to read it will help you navigate the country much more easily.
Understanding Thai Culture and Language Structure
Thai is a tonal language, and its script reflects the structure of words in a way that helps you better understand their meanings and origins. Learning Thai script gives insight into the cultural and historical context of the language.