This American Speaks More Fluent Thai than Thai People

Probably 90% of foreigners who come to live in Thailand choose to not learn Thai. In this video, I was able to speak to Tangmo who has chosen a completely different path.
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[@thanaang1455]

His accent is almost 100% as Thai, very clear.

[@djnor1979]

Bangkok Thai accent, not only any ... :)

[@NattapolPhorueng]

he have abit accent like "Dek-Nok" aka tha Thais whom growing or study aboard, his accent is better than my friend who study aboard. but the word he should when he speaking is totally Thai!

[@MrHeyki0086]

เหมือนโลอิค พูดชัดจนเป็นคนไทยแล้ว kzbin.info/www/bejne/fGXGpqabiahloZo

[@Bjorn.Bergman]

True. Only 6 years to speak perfect Thai tone is very difficult. Hat off !!

[@kill-e-termite]

really ?

[@jvnplanet3983]

ป๊าดดด แตงโม การพูดคือ สไตล์ถูกต้องแบบ local เลย ระดับคำศัพท์ก็ลึก เรียบเรียงก็ดีมาก สรุปพูดรู้เรื่องกว่าเราที่เป็นคนไทยอีกอะ 😂 555 เก่งอะ กราบ🙏

[@James_Cook007]

On behalf of THAI people. His THAI accent is 100% crystal clear like normal THAI people born in THAILAND. That's so amazing to me.

[@ayenoppa4717]

This guy is amazing, he speaks English with American accent and speaks Thai with Thai accent and the crazy thing is he can also speaks English with Thai accent lol that is a great skill right there

[@lionbstar6338]

555 จริงๆใช่เลย,มี..แม่ง..ด้วย,เหมือนคนไทยพูดเกิ้นนน🤣🤣

[@Suckerpunchsports]

That's not an American accent.

[@nxxew._.9696]

@@Suckerpunchsports he’s American

[@BlowmeRoger]

@@sheenObeenO narrator Paddy is from Australia

[@MrQwertypoiuyty]

Clearly you have never known bilingual people outside the USA. Just go to Netherlands.

[@Mickey-bo6cv]

Tangmo’s Thai is at a native speaker level. Super impressive. His tones are all spot on.

[@petecs1666]

Agreed, and on top of his incredibly natural accent, I like the way he used the word "ปฏิบัติ" instead of "ทำ" at 1:50. It really shows how deep he understand Thai language. He uses Thai so fluently from formal level to "pretty damn local level that you'd only use these words with your closest friends". I'd love to know more about him, he's a cool guy with a cool mindset and he also is the same age as me!

[@User5467h-4etic]

ชัด 95% another 5% left to speak like a native thai.

[@borstalD91239]

so yours must be too yeah

[@breadgarlichouse2265]

@@petecs1666 what’s the usage of ปฏิบัติ ? in what context?

[@petecs1666]

@@breadgarlichouse2265 "ปฏิบัติ" is the formal form of saying "ทำ" (to do). And yes, this interview was just 2 guys casually talking, not that formal. But Tangmo mainly used polite words to keep this conversation as an "interview" while mixing some colloquialism and slangs to make it casual.

[@hunterkiller009]

As a native Thai, I almost never hear foreigner speak Thai as good as this guy.

[@chetbqker]

same!!! it’s so surprising

[@nenadpopov3601]

Some ppl are just awesome at languages no matter how big difference is between their native language and the language they learned as second, I know a Brazilian guy who lives in my country and he speaks my language so good if you didn't know he was from Brazil you would think he's native, he got it all the vocabulary, mimic the grammar even the slang words he knows it all.

[@koala6915]

He sounds like my best friend who is 100% Thai 😂 I can't learn one word

[@thejoeyjason]

What about My Mate Nate?

[@chetbqker]

@@thejoeyjason really bad.

[@dreamchaser2521]

If I close my eyes, I wouldn't know the person who speaks Thai with me is American. Thank you for respecting our language.

[@rolfpoelman3486]

But what about at 10:29?

[@pogchampryder3313]

@@rolfpoelman3486 dont guan dteen him LOL

[@rassley1967]

I was going to say the same thing.

[@drummersnare6276]

I wonder how your American accent is lol

[@thaniktongtahmnaayuttaya5150]

@@rolfpoelman3486 Guan Teen is equivalent to trolling, so dont "Guan Teen" literally means "stop trolling".

[@Iphonmm]

I'm Thai citizen and I would say if I close my eyes listening to your conversations in Thai. Undoubtedly, I would think I'm listening to a Thai guy speaking. Plus the words you choose to speak clearly indicate you've put lots of efforts practicing full linguistic skills in Thai throughout the times you have been in Thailand.

[@jiranyavarodvivat2434]

He lived in Thai community and need to survive so he was enforced to communicate with locals and he also has Thai friends, so this is the way to pick up language quickly and frequently and he did not involve in expat community so majority of times connected with Thai culture and language.

[@daikonsama7377]

สำเนียงเหมือนคนไทย การเลือกใช้คำ ความเข้าใจบริบทก็เหมือน native มาก เก่งมากกก you’re an inspiration for us all to learn new languages and adapt in new cultures!

[@restartartyt]

His accent is good, because he lived in Thailand for a long time.

[@conmane3341]

ดูตอนแรกนึกว่าแกคือพ่อต่างชาติแล้วเรียน โรงเรียนไทยอีก

[@Peony812]

พูดไทยชัดมากค่ะ แสดงว่ามีความตั้งใจเรียน เอาจริงเอาจังกับภาษาไทย คุณเป็นคนดี เรายินดีต้อนรับ ขอให้มีความสุขเวลาอยู่เมืองไทยค่ะ

[@babybaby-wt8pk]

พูดชัดมาก ตกใจ น้อยคนมากจะพูดได้ขนาดนี้ หลับตานึกว่าคนไทย 😯

[@gomo2275]

เขาบอกมีญาติอยู่เมืองไทยด้วย อาจเป็นแรงบันดาลให้เขาก็ได้ และผมว่าเขาฉลาดด้วยหล่ะครับ

[@basschaiwat3329]

ชัดไม่ชัด เราไม่ได้ซีเรียสครับพูดไปเลย

[@สุรชัยจันทรวิศรุต]

ขอบคุณ ที่ชอบประเทศไทย อยู่เพียง 6 ปี พูดไทยชัดมาก เคารพความเป็นไทย เคารพกฏหมายไทย ขอให้ใช้ชีวิตอย่างมีความสุข

[@I_Amp1990]

***กฎหมาย✔️, กฎเกณฑ์✔️, กฎจราจร เขียน และสะกดด้วย "ฎ ชฎา" แบบนี้ ไม่ใช่กฏ = ปรากฏให้เห็น, ปรากฏการณ์ สะกดด้วย "ฏ ปฏัก" แบบนี้ เป็นต้น 🙏🙇😅

[@สุรชัยจันทรวิศรุต]

@I_Amp1990 ขอบคุณ ครับ

[@mtmt88]

This young man's maturity and clarity of thoughts are even more impressive than his command of the Thai language. Bravo!

[@chantharask8728]

His accent is amazing. Having learnt Thai for only 6 years and he can speak like this?! Even non-Thai words, like banoffee, the accent is still Thai haha He definitely has high level of linguistic competence.

[@MichaelButlerC]

It probably helps a lot that he started learning it when he was 16! That's still pretty young

[@slavasss2189]

Yes indeed. Unbeleivable...maybe he has relative, who is thai...and definetely he has thai gf...or bf 555

[@g60force]

@@slavasss2189 if you listened to the whole story you would know it was a family member of him living in Thai giving him the opportunity to come over!

[@jadevincent6631]

คุณแตงโมไม่ได้พูดไทยเก่งอย่างเดียว สำเนียง และการเรียบเรียงคำเจ๋งมาก เก่งครับ👍👍

[@jaxaou]

แต่หลงตัวเอง😂

[@youngktd4287]

​@@jaxaou ลูกอีแซะโผล่มา1 55555

[@maneeratpatt8441]

พูดชัดทั้งคู่เลย ยิ่งน้องแตงโมถ้าปิดหน้าฟังแต่เสียงคิดว่าคนไทยเลยแหละ เก่งทั้งคู่

[@frankcoley1537]

I felt that 🥺

[@jadevk5974]

He is not just speaking the thai language but he is speaking the culture as well. Speaking different language means you are learning the culture as well. That’s why people switch personalities when speaking different languages. I do the same

[@TheBearStudios]

Absolutely , just as an actor assumes the personality and character of the role , he becomes a completely different person to the person he actually is ......or was .

[@johnnyshui]

I heard about this that many polyglots have a different personality or vibe

[@portlandGTR]

I notice this most with Japanese speaking language. The personality instantly becomes more shy I guess is or coy. And I also agree that different languages people speak, can have two personalities depending. Because language represents culture heavily and Japanese, Thai, American, and Indian peoples culture are so different

[@ikamfuey]

How he said he was stubborn and didn’t finish high school, yet shows how brilliant he is. To migrate and start fresh in a different country is a great achievement. Thailand is your home brother

[@ak5659]

Yeah, def no shortage of brains there. As a former I wonder if he was just getting the information too slowly or maybe he was one of those kids who got it the first time around and waiting for the others to catch up made him crazy like the cop, Judy in the DMV scene with Flash the sloth in Zootopia.

[@carlisclosetedphgt3666]

That's still embarrassing you didn't finish highschool, dude its highschool not doctorate or something just get that petty highschool diploma 🤡

[@luckylamkimrin6981]

คุณแตงโมพูดไทยชัดมาก พูดไทยในสไตล์ไทย หน้าตา บุคลิกก็คล้ายคนไทย ผิวดี หล่อ เท่ห์เหมือนคนไทยเลย สงสัยเป็นเพราะอากาศ อาหารและการปรับตัวที่เก่งของคุณ จึงทำให้คุณมีความเป็นไทยมากๆ

[@I_Amp1990]

***เท่✔️ เท่ห์✖️ 🙏🙇😅

[@Kaamanita]

ภาษาไทยของคุณ julian อยู่ในระดับที่เจ้าของภาษาเริ่มแยกไม่ออกว่าเป็นชาวต่างชาติพูดแล้วครับ สุดยอดมากเลยครับ ^_______^

[@thitiratm3745]

เห็นด้วยค่ะ สุดยอดจริงๆ

[@MrDookDik]

เวลาพูดใช้ช่องเสียงขึ้นนาสิก เรียกอเมริกา ว่าเมกา แสลงอย่างการใช้คำว่า "แม่ง" เป็น ขึ้นประโยคด้วย คือ ซึ่ง แบบว่า ใช้ไทยคำอังกฤษคำ แถมคำอังกฤษสำเนียงไทยด้วยนะ มาอยู่ 6 ปีนี่โคตรเก่งเลย ฟังแต่เสียงนี่นึกว่าคนไทยพูดจริงๆ

[@WuCur]

ตอนนี้ในสายตาคนไทย คุณกลายเป็นคนไทยแท้ ๆ ที่หน้าตาแบบพวกลูกครึ่งครับ

[@jiraratklin6049]

ชัดกว่าคนไทยอีกค่ะ คนไทยบางคนลิ้นควบคำไปหมด เอิ่มๆเอ่อๆ

[@Noo_Lhothong.w800]

ชัดกว่าคนไทยกว่าครึ่งประเทศครับ

[@t.saranya3517]

พูดไทยเก่งมาก เหมือนคนไทยแท้เลยค่ะ มีความเข้าใจในภาษาไทย รูปแบบประโยค คำพูดคือไทยใช่เลย การโต้ตอบเอย อะไรเอย โหวววว เก่งมากๆ👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻

[@maliko2541]

His Thai accent is 100% native Thai speaker! It’s so amazing that he has lived in Thailand for just only 7 years.

[@ThaiHainanese]

As a Thai, Julian's Thai speaking skill is extremely impressive. 10 out 10

[@aleximyhoney5748]

... 9.8/10

[@baiyoksku8013]

@@aleximyhoney5748 10/10 ....

[@apisitpoonsawut1391]

แตงโมพูดไทยโครตชัด พูดเหมือนคนไทยเลย 👍ยินดีต้อนรับทุกท่านที่จะเดินทางมานะครับ อยู่ไทยใช้ชีวิตสบายๆ ปลอดภัยมาก ใช้ชีวิตชิวๆสไตล์ไทย❤️🐶🇹🇭

[@I_Amp1990]

***โคตร(โค-ตะ-ระ)✔️ โครต✖️ ***ชิล✔️, ชิลล์✔️ ชิว✖️ 🙏🙇😅

[@NokEasy]

คุณเป็นคนต่างชาติ ที่พูดไทยได้ดีมาก ถ้าผมไม่เห็นหน้าคุณแล้วได้ยินเสียงคุณ ผมต้องคิดว่าคุณคือคนไทยแน่นอนเลยครับ

[@待明歌]

Please do more if Tangmo. He seems like have a lot life story

[@chawatt.3810]

He speaks very naturally and has no accent at all. Amazing job Tangmo!

[@cyber8019]

Yes, he's an American born in America and not Thailand. If he was born and grew up in Thailand, then it's quite natural. He also has a perfect American accent. He's quite a genius.

[@koyopalawatjittana5222]

หลับตาฟังนี้นึกว่าคุณแตงโมเป็นคนไทยเลย!! สุดยอดมากเลยค่ะ คุณทั้งคู่เลย ไม่ใช่แค่ภาษาที่ใช่ แต่รวมถึงวิธีคิด ขอบคุณนะค้า ที่รักเมืองไทย

[@djskippa7520]

“Language is not about translation”. That is as good a motivational quote for people wanting to learn a language as you can get and so true.

[@HaharuRecords]

Language is a tool for understanding to communicate each other

[@TheTM653]

The way that Tangmo speaks Thai , it not only his 100% Thai accent but his inner are Thai. This is why he speak exactly like Thai nature. I’m very impressed 👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻 😊

[@aimmariess]

When he included English word into his Thai sentence, he even said that English word in Thai accent. 100% perfect

[@paper2222]

as a thai this is extremely impressive. he's mastered the grammar, and even the colloquial words thai people use. on top of that, he has mastered the pronunciation of english words in thai, which can be a hard thing to master, because you would need to actually learn the phonology of thai. but the most impressive are the particles he's used. particles in thai are what separates the fluent from the native. you will never sound like a native if you do not master the particles, and this man right here is extremely proficient at it.

[@calebw8189]

What are you referring to with "particles" exactly?

[@greg.peepeeface]

everything you just said and explained, just sounds cool.

[@Ok-pr2pd]

I where know u live, Chonburi?

[@paper2222]

@@calebw8189 particles are words that really doesn't have a meaning, but conveys some things. one example is "มั้ย/หรอ?" which is a "word" that you add at the end of a statement to change sentences to a question. other examples are "ครับ/คะ" to add politeness, "หะ, อะ" to... sound more native-like? it is almost impossible to master these (i can't know for sure, cuz i've never tried learning them in other languages) without massive amounts of input/immersion in thai

[@paper2222]

@@Ok-pr2pd yes. i'm not too surprised, cuz the information is a bit searchable if you were to pinpoint my location further, i'd probably be frightened

[@grownmangamer942]

I like this kid Julian. For someone who claims a troubled background he really seems to have embraced Thailands culture and language and made something positive out of himself. Very cool. I hope one day to be able to speak thai as well as these two.

[@dannyskr-6889]

What a shame though, this guy is delusional when it comes to women, dating, and romance. Try searching thailand take me out tangmo.

[@knightswatch1041]

His idea about speaking different languages and having unique characters/personas for each one is rather insightful and fascinating. I've never really thought about it that way but he's absolutely right.

[@blutey]

To possess another language is to possess another soul. - Charles V (Charlemagne).

[@donnazasgoat2274]

Oh definitely! Although my Japanese is infantile I can feel myself soften my tone and mannerisms from rough American girl to accomodate pleasant melodic Japanese woman speak. Plus I can channel and mimic what I've heard in Japanese films. I've watched a shit-ton of Japanese films and anime which definitely helps.

[@TwistedTeaFate]

I tend to overthink the way I speak in English, but I'm very blunt and confident in my words when I speak Spanish. My English is much better though, but yeah your personality changes with language

[@martinsaunders7925]

Understanding in a language is being of that language. I would not have been able to play koto without " being" Japanese in that time. Similarly a Japanese cannot play Vivaldi without being Italian while playing. This personality change seems to happen whenever an art form of a different culture is expressed. Arts are unspoken language.

[@ak5659]

@@blutey Thank you! I'm so stealing that!

[@onsonvolleyball5700]

คุณแตงโมไม่ใช่แค่พูดภาษาไทยแต่คุณแตงโมงให้ความรู้สึกคุณคือคนไทย แอดติจูดคือดีมากไม่ตัดสินใครเพราะสิ่งที่ได้ยินมา แต่ศึกษาให้เข้าใจว่าเหตุผลใดถึงพูดแบบนั้นแสดงออกแบบนั้น เช่นคำว่าทานข้าวหรือยัง คนไทยที่ถามเพราะความห่วงใยและหากแขกยังไม่ทานข้าวคนไทยก็จะต้อนรับด้วยการหาข้าวปลาอาหารต้อนรับ มันแสดงออกถึงความมีน้ำใจ ถึงไม่ใช่ญาติพี่น้องก็ตาม

[@jackritjamrungfa7828]

ขอแสดงความคิดเห็นเป็นภาษาไทยนะครับ ผมฟังสำเนียงแตงโมแล้วให้ความรู้สึกว่าคุณคือคนไทยคนนึงเลย ชอบแนวคิดและเหตุผล อธิบายได้เห็นภาพเลยครับ👍👍👍

[@kaischuhmacher1744]

I'm half Thai and I must say that even his introduction in Thai is pretty awesome! Beautiful! It's true! He speaks better Thai than many Thai people. Very clear!

[@thendo4433]

แตงโมคุณมีความเป็นคนไทยมากเวลาพูดไทย สุดยอดเลย รู้ไหมเวลาคนต่างชาติพูดไทยได้เดินทางไปไหนคุณไม่มีทางลำบากเลยนะ คนไทยชอบเวลาต่างชาติพูดไทยได้ เค้าจะเอ็นดูคุณมากๆ ยิ่งคนเฒ่าคนแก่เจอคุณรับรองคุณไม่มีทางลำบากของกินเพียบไม่ต้องกลัวอด

[@สุรชัยโน๊ต7]

ชื่นชมคุณทั้งสอง และชื่นชมมุมมองเมืองไทยของคุณ ที่เข้าใจวัฒนธรรมไทยอย่างลงลึก

[@mamad2415]

น้องแตงโม พูดคือคนไทยเลยค่ะ ทัศนคติดีมาก ขอให้มีความสุขกับการใช้ชีวิตในไทยและทุกๆที่นะคะ

[@nugget2554]

I've never seen someone from another country speak Thai as clear as him. He's so good.

[@marlecmarine5393]

Absolutely brilliant interview, informative, and interesting. This young man submerged himself in Thai culture and fully embraced his learning experience, well done to him.....

[@nightclawer6679]

When you can speak Thai fluently and truely understand our culture. You'll start to smile more like both of them cuz now they become real Thai people.

[@heimdallyong7181]

Yes I agree, I’m a beginner but as soon as now I can speak a few words, and get corrected by Thai people, I feel ashamed but I feel good after that as I’m learning.

[@nightclawer6679]

My point is in Thailand we have many haft-thai and many expats here so there is no barrier when it come to one appearance. As long as you can speak thai fluently and understand Thai culture, you will be treated like Thai people just like tang-mo in this clip and this is not always the case in other country. In some country it doesn't matter if you birth there, as long as you're black or Asian you'll be treat like foreign 😂.

[@graduke1]

I become thai by drinking a couple of beer changs. Always gets me a bit pissed...and cheerful!

[@wutthikraiburakrai1715]

ชอบ midset ของทั้งสองมาก จริงๆเรียนภาษาไม่ใช่แค่เรียนภาษา แต่ คุณกำลังเรียนโลกอีกใบ. ตอนนี้ผมก็เรียนภาษาต่างๆ แต่สิ่งที่ได้คือ วิธีคิด และโลกใบนี้เปลี่ยนไปเลย.

[@paulrodriguez1282]

I wish this kid the very best. He did amazing Job changing his life's direction. I hope he still is doing well and still living in Thailand. It's 2025 now and he's probably age 25 now. Hopefully, it all works out for him. He seems like a decent young man now. I grew up in Richmond CA, Bay area, and know first hand what being a bad kid is really like in the ghetto. Good luck and wishing you the very best. Be safe.

[@moodyhappy9900]

ชอบวิธีคิดของคุณแตงโมมากค่ะ 13 นาที ผ่านไปไวมาก ถ้ามีโอกาสอีก รบกวนคุณแพดดี้ สัมภาษณ์​สัก 30 นาทีนะคะ 🥰

[@BrandenLesko]

To reach a level of speaking Thai as Julien (Tangmo), immersing yourself at a younger age in the language does help to some degree. Having an open slate mindset in order to learn a new language is what's really needed. I have to say his level of Thai is pretty much on the level as the locals. I was born and raised in BKK and learned Thai from my mother and the local school system. I learned English from my American father, who set a rule that I was only allowed to speak English within the household. This allowed me to be able to be equally fluent in both Thai and English. I also moved to Singapore and lived there for two years, learning Chinese Mandarin. At that point, I was fluent in three languages before starting the fourth grade. Looking back, it's amazing how my mind was able to absorb three different languages as a kid. Never underestimate the power of a young mind...the possibilities are limitless!

[@thisisstevet]

I think your dad had the right idea

[@travelwithnou]

That is an amazing experience.

[@thisisstevet]

@Mark Seymour No, I mean the Thai parent speak Thai only and the English speaker only speaking English. I was responding to Branden Lesko's comment

[@annabethyeung8512]

@Mark Seymour That’s very interesting. My sister didn’t speak anything but Mandarin (at home) until she was 4 or 5 either, and has had no problems learning English - and forgetting most of her Mandarin. A 4 year old should be able to pick up a completely unfamiliar language to a reasonable level in a matter of weeks. They should also be able to forget languages almost as fast. It’s interesting that that is not what happened with your daughter, although I’m not sure why.

[@annabethyeung8512]

@Mark Seymour I guess I should clarify what “reasonable level” means- I mean they understand the majority of what is said to them (basic/daily things, nothing fancy) and are able to maybe say a few repeated words or phrases. And it does depend on the person, obviously. But there’s been studies that show toddlers up to about 3 years can learn and use at least a 100 words in a new language after about 18 weeks. This ability does diminish with age, but a 4 year old should still be going pretty strong.

[@IndigoRoses7]

I am an American, my grandmother was a polyglot that lived in Russia for years. She spoke several dialects of Chinese, and I think I inherited her interest in different languages. You both speak incredibly well!! I'm sure it's not easy to learn and fully integrate into a brand new place, language, and way of life but this was a great interview. Thai is a beautiful language and this channel was the beginning of my interest in the language, and culture.

[@เจ้อ้อย-บ3ซ]

Well com to ThIland

[@Voltomess]

It's always easy for a kid to learn other language no matter what part of the world they catch it really fast , try to learn like that if you in 30's or 40's ....NOT POSSIBLE

[@Mantaray911]

Paddy, please could you do another video with Julian and discuss how he learnt to speak Thai so well. I would like to know what process he went through, was it formally studies or is he self-taught? Thanks, great interview.

[@arhus12]

You can't reach a level like that by "studying" the language, you have to live it and welcome the culture into your heart, have your social life in that language etc. Cultivate your Thai personality. And do that for a few years. Probably went a little faster for him because he started out as a teenager, but anyone can do it.

[@melanieah5501]

He said he left at 17yrs old.

[@johnbuster4268]

You literally can’t tell where he’s from with only audio. His Thai is craaazyy. The slangs, the pronunciation and how he talks is exactly like a Thai young adult

[@吸血姫丼]

I'm learning some Thai here and there but Japanese is my primary target language. Seeing his amazing achievements in Thai inspires me so much to work towards making my Japanese as good as possible! Langauge learning is an amazing journey. While it may not be viable for everyone to dedicate the hours to reaching this level of proficiency, learning a language to any level is worth commending, and will make your life both in and out of the country more enriching ^_^ as Kato Lomb said, language is the only thing worth knowing even poorly.

[@borstalD91239]

we are not here to talk about Japanese or you mushi mushi

[@vueport99]

@@borstalD91239 but he's not totally off topic either

[@benzvd]

I think more foreigners in Japan learn Japanese (and succeeded in it) than foreigners learning Thai in Thailand (only 10% or less of foreigners). I think the reason that many more foreigners can pick up Japanese (at least basics to get by) is because not many people speak English in Japan.

[@vueport99]

@@benzvd makes sense, you're forced to learn lol

[@吸血姫丼]

@@benzvd That's a good point, and I think it's definitely true. Granted it's still quite easy to wrap yourself in an English bubble and not learn much Japanese in Japan. Although definitely you're likely to pick up some basics for survival! Not really about this comment, but just a passing related thought. I guess regardless of the environment, be it in a hard country to get by with English like Japan, a survivable countey like Thailand, or even a completelyenglish speaking country like Australia, its still very possible to create an immersion environment. Setting aside an hour a day to read a book in your target language or watch a few episodes of a show can really do a lot!

[@coma13794]

he made such a great point when he said that you really won't sound like a local by simply mastering translation. Culture and mindset plays a huge part. What a great video!

[@graduke1]

I think drinking a couple of beer changs helps to become more thai! 😆

[@wasabinn1026]

The best Thai-speaking foreigner I’ve ever seen so far. His accent is 99% right. Appreciate his mind set about learning new things as well. Very cool very positive. 🙌🏼

[@henriqueleszczynski37]

I was an exchange student in Thailand when I was 17yo back in 2014, I learn my fair share of Thai for someone who stayed in Thailand for only 10 months. I came back to live in Thailand again 3 weeks ago and I'm trying to learn again, I forgot manu things but some words and phrases are coming back to me as the days go by

[@nikbaumann]

I'am sure you will be able to speak Thai fluently in the near future. Welcome to Thailand

[@edthecrazyboy]

You’ll eventually learn it, just don’t give up!

[@tanchye1720]

Wow! His Thai is fantastic. 😳 At 74 now, I can speak Thai pretty well. Speak a little of Esan language too. Can read & write Thai a little. I started to learn Thai language when I was in my 60. You are never too old to learn another language. Exercising your brain, so to speak. p.s. listen to the connecting words between 2 phrases. (eg. because, so that, once, since than, etc.)

[@AdamBradshaw]

ต้องขอซูฮกทั้งสองท่านเลยนะครับ

[@jackboun721]

He doesn’t just speak fluent Thai he understands the culture. The way he speaks I wouldn’t think he was a “farang”. I seriously don’t know how I feel about this. The way he explained “have you eaten yet” as a greeting is spot on.

[@VoluptuousB]

Really?

[@Hanamichi6666]

He clearly speaks like a thai

[@ThailandBoy8]

He isn't French

[@wpn-k8d]

@@Hanamichi6666 no he cant

[@Hanamichi6666]

@@wpn-k8d i have a thai wife and she was super impressed

[@ThePilgrimsProcess]

As a couple learning Thai and trying to live in Thailand, this was an incredible perspective to hear. Great interview Paddy! 👍

[@jomontanee]

Hello Ben and Laurel. I root for you! One of your subscriber here.

[@insightwisdom7022]

The more you try, the more progress you made.

[@ThePilgrimsProcess]

@@jomontanee Thank you Jo! You support us so well 😊

[@woofsnwood]

It’s as if instead of being an American who integrated into Thai life and culture, he became a Thai who also knew English and the experience of growing up American. This is the highest level of immersion and linguistic skill. 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻

[@MannyUnchain3d]

Tangmo's testimony feels so genuine and authentic, his excellent command of the Thai language is such an inspiration. I've been living in Thailand for over 3 years, slowly learning the language by myself, at my own pace, just enough day after day to challenge myself and keep making progress. My level is nowhere near what it should be if I had spent those 3 years in a school or learning using a “proper” method. But it never comes to my mind to give up on my goal to be fluent one day, and I know I’ll get there eventually… Mindset + dedication + passion + hard work... some values that contribute to mastery, and it seems that he has all of them to some extent, I’m impressed! Thank you for sharing this video Paddy!

[@travelwithnou]

You will get there one day. Thai people don't judge how much you can speak Thai. They would really appreciate how cute when you speak.

[@theforester_]

Im brazilian and had a thai gf, she tried at all costs teach me thai but i just couldnt remember the words, the intonation is so different aswell... Thai people are the most kind ive ever met... so humble and honest, always worried about you

[@user-ck7vb7ve9r]

Very impressive! Your Thai language is very nice and very clear. You are Thai now. Love this VDO. Thanks.

[@ericsingasong]

His Thai is amazing! Practically couldn’t tell he’s a foreigner. Thai is extremely tonal, and he’s nailed it!

[@kongswethai3964]

darn! his thai is amazing i started to learn Thai language & culture after my first trip 1988, that allowed me to meet thai in a different way and make friends, i still have the same friends 30 years later, always tryed to stay away from the tourist trade and visit "the real Thailand

[@bc2647]

This is such a great interview on sooooo many levels and it just hits home

[@เฟิร์นเฉยๆ-ฦ3ฝ]

พี่ๆๆพูดไทยกันชัดมากๆๆเลยค่ะ ขอบคุณมากๆนะคะ🥰😍

[@austinhowland300gmail.]

Hello my friend how are you doing today

[@phiwatnwittayawatn8839]

My god, this is the most clear and accurate Thai accent I’ve ever heard.

[@singhal3eel279]

I feel that "Tangmo" has inspired a lot of people and positive energy.....Thank you so much for using your profound Thai language to create good things. those come up both for yourself And people who have watched this wonderful clip of Mr. Paddy's interview.

[@nathangibbs7539]

I really enjoyed this vlogg & Tangmo seems like living in thailand has given him clear direction & peace. His joy is evident. Cheers from New Zealand

[@geirsivertsen4225]

Thanks for interesting interview. Kudos to you both for getting so deep into the Thai language and culture. Inspiring! After 9 years as expat in Thailand I have taught myself to read and write at a basic level, - but I am close to zero level when it comes to speak and understand Thai language. Listening to you make me thinking I should try harder. Still time to improve -after all I am only 76!

[@thisisstevet]

Good on ya, buddy - keep at it! Awesome 👍

[@Hardtofind963]

It just goes to show its never to late.

[@Taooflu]

I don’t speak Thai but can tell his inflections must be spot on, this guy put a lot of effort. Well done!

[@keithst933]

OMG! What an amazing interview! Brilliant perspective on the Thai language and culture. And Julian… you’re way more mature then I expected. This story is so aligned with what I believe in the power of a changed mindset! I really hope to meet the both of you in Bangkok in the near future!

[@keithst933]

Btw I mean no disrespect about the maturity bit…

[@TanyaTien]

TBH I don’t hear him as a foreigner who speaks fluent Thai. I see him as a Thai speaks Thai. I’m really impressed on how he carries himself as a person who’s willing to learn, his mindset and his way of embracing the new culture ❤️🇹🇭

[@potato1991.]

6ปีพูดไทยได้เก่งมากเลยค่ะ..น่ารักมากสู้ๆนะคะ.

[@jshawney3355]

Remarkable how being in Thailand completely changed the path of his life, from a kid going down a dark road , probably hanging out with the wrong ppl to getting taken out of that environment and put in one where he's forced to be humble due to being an outsider and not knowing the language/culture... to becoming as we can see a fine young man who is living up to his potential as a human being , and being a net positive to society. Go young man, go! We are rooting for you!

[@buajaithailand5065]

I wanna give a hundred of “like” for this VDO. You guys have such a good perspectives. I’m so glad that you choose Thailand culture and Thai language to be an another door to open. Have fun here,dude!!!!!

[@my98thaccount]

Such an inspiration. I regret not learning Thai when I first got here, but it's better late than never! Also, almost every woman I've dated in Thailand recommends your videos Paddy. You must be on to something!

[@ThaiTalkwithPaddy]

Hahaha thanks for that extra little bit of knowledge Eric!

[@dreammix9430]

It's never too late to learn :-)

[@Ajhmee]

I'm Thai and I am impressed how Tangmo talks. He knows the meaning of words like ได้อยู่ แปลว่าไม่ได้ (it's ok means it is not ok.) which only new gen or people who familiar with social media will understand that. He also looking good, I'm sure many Thai girls will like him.

[@remnant888]

Second time I've heard the word ได้อยู่... More examples how to use this..?

[@Ajhmee]

@@remnant888 Something like, when your friend get new hair cut and ask you, How is his/her new hair? You think it was so bad but you don't want to hurt your friend's feeling, so you answer him/her dai yu' (ได้อยู่).

[@onalonan]

@@remnant888 it just like when you ask someone is it ok? Is it alright? And they just say in a gentle way like I think I'm still ok, I'm still alright. And Tangmo just ending that conversation like understand his a little stressed by saying "I'm still Ok means you are not really ok or that's mean he's not ok" Many Thai always say things like these because they're too shy and do not really want to disturb other people and it's a kinds of respect to others people kindness.

[@cyber8019]

Looking good is not the same as good looking. Good looking means handsome, looking good means temporarily look good.

[@cyber8019]

@@Ajhmee So dai yu' (ได้อยู่) means 'it's not bad' in English

[@Event_Horizon14]

Just 10 sec into the video and this guy is already an inspiration! Having struggled with the alphabet and tones for almost a year now, I can't picture myself ever being this good. I'm sure living in Thailand or having access to native speakers makes a huge difference but if you don't have an ear for the tones and a crazy amount of dedication, you can't get very far with Thai. Well done Tangmo 👏

[@arhus12]

Anyone can learn tones. All languages actually have intonation, which in the end is the same thing, differences in tone. For example, "you know him!" and "you know him?" - the only difference is intonation. There are tons of different ways you can say the same words with different intonation depending on what feeling or mood you want to communicate. Maybe you can try and attach that to the Thai tones. For example the tone used in the Thai number 5, "ha", that sounds a bit like when you say "oh" because someone told you some new information that you didn't expect. Not super accurate but you get the point haha

[@Event_Horizon14]

@@arhus12 I research second language acquisition and auditory processing and actually "intonation" i.e., prosody and lexical tones are not the same thing. One occurs at the level of the syllable and the other at the level of the phrase. Depending on the language, "intonation" can be conveyed by many different auditory cues (duration, pitch, amplitude, etc in different combinations). Depending on the tonal language, there are a different number of tones and a different set of weights assigned to the auditory cues that convey them. Changes in the tone translate into changes in meaning at the word level. There's no equivalent of that in the European languages hence why people struggle so much with learning tones. But I agree it's not impossible to learn them just takes a lot of practice and getting used to.

[@arhus12]

@@Event_Horizon14 Alright I know it isn't exactly the same thing, but my point was that speakers of any language can easily distinguish between whatever tonal patterns that language has, whether it's on a syllable level or a phrase level. So it's not necessarily so hard because there are tones, but rather that the tones are on a word level and changes the meaning of the word, rather than phrase level, which many people aren't used to. And btw there are in fact European languages that have pitch accent, such as Serbocroatian and the Scandinavian languages, which is essentially the same thing as tone, since you can have two words with different meaning and the only difference between them is the tone (or pitch accent). Not sure exactly what the formal difference between tone and pitch accent is, but I'd assume that tone is specific to a syllable whereas pitch accent is specific to a word.

[@sosopepper]

It is official...Tangmo has been adopted. I am so proud of this young man. Hopefully I will get to meet you and him when we get there next year. Hopefully you will entertain an old lady for coffee or something. I am so very happy to have virtually met you both. So inspiring and encouraging for young and older viewers. I sent this video to my grandson and he totally started binge watching your videos. He is 12. I love it. Thanks again and see you soon. Blessings 🙌

[@nuttasit896]

มันน่าทึ่งจริงๆครับ กับการพูดภาษาไทยของพี่แตงโม♥️

[@vhadlee3inirfan786]

เก่งมากๆครับ อยู่ไทย6ปีแต่พูดภาษาไทยได้ชัดมาก ประเทศไทยยินดีต้อนรับครับ🙏🙏🙏🙏

[@k00ey]

Mad respect to both of you. Completely correct that language is not only about translating. It's culture and a way of life.

[@LowbatmanGaming]

Honestly that was the most underrated takeaway from this video. Really insightful interview IMO

[@RungcharnSuksungworn]

First of all, Thank you for promoting and supporting Thai culture. I really appreciate and happy when I see this video that you try to understand Thai culture and speak Thai language which is quite difficult for foreigns. Well done 👏🏻 👏🏻👏🏻

[@mommygade6131]

I am impressed with his excellent choices of words and his fluency. Only 7 years and he speaks like a native. 🎉

[@จักรกฤษณ์จันทรส่อง]

Welcome to thailand

[@Kouki_clay]

Put me to shame man and I’m American Thai. Your accent is 100 percent spot on and alot better than mine. I’m amazed at your story and want to thank you for learning about my culture. Also I showed my parents this and they said “why can’t you be like that” 😂

[@HalfLash]

Typical Thai parents lol. Don't feel a shame of yourself. Everyone is different.

[@yaousa5475]

He is still young so it's easy for him to live and learn, Thailand is a great place for most foreigner who liked to live there. Myself I came to USA when I was almost 30 years old, it's not too hard to live and learn but not easy either. Missed Thailand so much.

[@manyshap]

WOW! I mean this was the most inspired experience from an farang I watched. It was a deep conversation and reflective also! I can notice his Thai is like a native, super clean and his English words while speaking in Thai also sounds like Thai-English hahaha cool!

[@ly776]

Very impressive! He speaks as clearly as a Thai newscaster! I think many people are afraid to learn Thai because of the "tones." But if you can get past that, there are many aspects of speaking basic Thai that are easier (for me at least) than languages like Spanish or French. Particularly because one does not have to conjugate verbs based on tense, number, or case in Thai. As with most things, one does not need to be perfect at it but just try. Plus, most Thais I know enjoy a good laugh when I use a wrong word and appreciate the effort.

[@graduke1]

Nail on head! For 2 good linguistic people who are good at imitation they didn't make this obvious observation. Not everyone has that ability.

[@maxmaxington5873]

Some people are so mature at such a young age. This young man is one of those people. Exceptional young man. What a story and what a guy.

[@stephenhanson7903]

Great video. Excellent on Tangmo or Julian, for learning Thai language. It makes his living in Thailand go smoother.

[@omegoa]

A better interview than I was expecting. Tangmo has a very relaxed and well-rounded adaptation to a new language and culture. I think his perceptions and conclusions would find correlation to any new language. Nicely done.

[@ชาขิง-ฒ7ข]

6 years but superb Thai accent, Tangmo and you are such a nice example for many Thai young people at current

[@jjwr99]

Great interview! Learning Thai in my youth made all the difference in my appreciation of, and my comfort level in all my dealings with Thailand for over 40 years. And now that I’m retired and just three months away from relocating long-term to the kingdom, as good as my Thai might seem to Thais and farangs alike, one of my first tasks upon arrival in December will be to find a good tutor and learn more. Thanks you guys, for saying something i have been trying to explain for a very long time. 😎👍

[@YellowBlueGrey]

Omg Tangmo what an adorable name :) also his Thai is impeccable...he is so articulate and well spoken

[@elleyhappy8190]

เก่งมากๆๆ สำเนียงเป๊ะมากค่ะ 👍👍👍

[@kkinloch]

I want to add, at about 10 minutes into the video, you both were expressing that one should not just learn the language, but get the Thai personality, get the system inside you. I have always expressed that as: you need to feel the meaning of the words and phrases. As always, thanks for producing these. I continue to use them to practice my listening skills.

[@bryanjenkins6246]

One of the best Paddy. Nice story of integrating into a new environment

[@ThaiTalkwithPaddy]

Glad you enjoyed it Bryan!

[@pithlyx]

i moved to thailand for a year when i was 16, the cultureshock was ... intense but leaving america and visiting a country that is totally different was one of the most beneficial things i have ever done. i picked up thai very quickly (i guess being annoying and mimicking sounds has some upsides) but never learned enough about the intricacies of the language enough to speak too well, i could stumble through just about any conversation though. Julian's dedication and passion for his life in another land is inspiring and makes me miss all the beautiful people i met along my travels in thailand.

[@shirayukihime9985]

I love the way you talked in Thai ,it motivated me to try to practice my English skill

[@ปวีณาศรีสมุทร]

สำเนียงคนไทยวัยรุ่นมาก เก่งมากคะ มา6ปีพูดได้แบบนี้เยี่ยม