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Wednesday, Feb 25, 2026

Popular Thai Catchphrases That Made Waves in 2023

In 2023, several Thai catchphrases gained popularity, resonating with current events. Notable terms include "digital money," "soft power," and "Chin Thao" (suggesting questionable Chinese businesses).
Krunthep Turakij compiled a list of trending expressions, ranging from Thai to English, and combinations thereof.

Key phrases of the year are:

- "kee mong" (meaning "when"), used to express skepticism, such as doubting Thailand's World Cup prospects.
- "First Thai," mocking people falsely claiming to be the first at something.
- "Digital money," following the Pheu Thai Party's promise of a 10,000-baht digital wallet handout for those 16 and older, prompting questions about its distribution.
- "Chin Thao," referring to illicit Chinese enterprises.
- "Cham," originally meaning "extremely juicy," used for emphasis, with over 68 million mentions.
- "Cha Thai" (Thai tea), tied to global popularity and copyright disputes.
- "Chai Thrae," a twist on "Chai Thae" (real men), now implies male chauvinism.
- "Choc Mint," associated with Pheu Thai leader Paetongta Shinawatra's favorite drink and her party.
- "Short feel," a twist on "short-circuit," indicating an abrupt interruption that deeply offends.
- "Soft power," a term used widely after Pheu Thai's policy promotion.
- "Third crown coming," the rallying cry of Thai netizens during the Miss Universe pageant in support of Anntonia Porsild.
- "Whose fortune?" a compliment to attractive individuals on social media.
- "I told Phrae Mae Laxmi about you," a tag used for romantic intentions, invoking the goddess of love, Laxmi.
- "Woke," used to convey a sense of political disenchantment.
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