A guide to saying it correctly
How to Pronounce Pad Thai
Learn the correct way to say Pad Thai, the iconic stir-fried noodle dish from Thailand, with this simple pronunciation guide.
pad thai
PAHD-TY
/ˌpɑd ˈtaɪ/ · pad · thai
Native US English · Kokoro neural TTS · 0:01
It is a staple of casual dining and is frequently discussed in travel blogs and food reviews.
Where the word comes from
The name comes from Thai 'phat', meaning fried, and 'Thai', referring to the country. It was popularized as a national dish in Thailand during the late 1930s.
Common ways people get it wrong
- PAD-thay English speakers often rhyme the second syllable with 'day', but the 'ai' diphthong should sound like the word 'eye'.
- PAYD-tye Avoid softening the 'a' in the first syllable; it should be a crisp, open 'ah' sound like in 'father'.
Frequently asked
Is the T in Thai silent?
No, the T is aspirated and clearly pronounced. It sounds like the T in 'top' or 'time'.
Do I stress the first or second syllable?
Both syllables carry weight, but the primary stress is usually on the second syllable, 'thai'. Aim for a balanced, rhythmic delivery.
Is it offensive to mispronounce it?
Most people will understand you regardless of a slight accent. Making an effort to get the 'eye' sound right is generally appreciated.
