In Thailand, "boom boom" (or "bum bum") is vulgar slang, primarily used by foreigners, that means sexual intercourse, often specifically referring to sex with prostitutes or within the context of sex tourism, a connotation stemming from Vietnam War-era slang for sex with local women. It's a euphemism for "the S-word," used to describe sexual activity in a playful or indirect way, especially when discussing nightlife or adult entertainment, notes this Reddit post.
Most importantly, respect for the monarchy is not just cultural here; it's legally enforced. Avoid making any negative comments or jokes about the royal family, as violations of the Lèse-Majesté law can result in severe penalties, including imprisonment.
Learn Thai for Tourists | Short Useful Words and Phrases to survive in Thailand 🇹🇭
What is the 112 rule in Thailand?
Section 112 of Thai Criminal Code currently reads as follows: "Whoever defames, insults or threatens the King, the Queen, the Heir-apparent or the Regent, shall be punished with imprisonment of three to fifteen years."
"Jub jub" (จุ๊บจุ๊บ) in Thai is an onomatopoeia for a kiss, like "mwah mwah" or "smooch," used playfully to mean "kiss, kiss," and is a cute way to express affection, similar to a peck on the cheek or a sweet little smooch, often sent in messages. The actual word for a longer kiss is จูบ (joob), while จุ๊บ (jub) is for a quick peck, making "jub jub" a sweet, repeated expression.
Your bum is your bottom. This word can also be used to refer to a vagrant, although it's generally considered offensive or insensitive. Bum is a name sometimes given to a beggar or vagrant: someone who tries to bum change from you.
Brazilian Bum Bum Cream is a best-selling, visibly tightening body cream. It's become a worldwide obsession for its skin-firming benefits and irresistible & sunny scent.
You Me Bum Bum Train was a secret immersive theatre production. The site of the production was Empire House, a 1970s three-story office block in Stratford.
The history of LGBTQ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer) people in Thailand spans thousands of years. Concepts of diverse sexual orientations and gender identities have been influenced by both Indigenous and Buddhist traditions.
In Thai, "Susu" (สู้ๆ) is a popular cheer meaning "Fighting!", "Keep going!", or "You got this!", used to encourage someone facing a challenge, like exams, sports, or tough times, similar to the Chinese "jiāyóu" (加油). It comes from the word "สู้" (sûu), meaning "to fight," and repeating it reinforces the message of never giving up.
In Thailand, the number five is pronounced “ha” (hâa), which sounds exactly like “ha.” Therefore, texting “555” is the common and quick way to say “hahaha” or “LOL” in digital conversations, making it a wonderful piece of Thai internet slang that reflects the country's cheerful nature.
You might get asked: "Bai nai?" - "What are you doing?" which is often used instead of "How are you?". A good response is: "Bai tee-o" which means "I'm going out socially". When you meet someone, it is also common to use traditional greeting, the wai.
