สบายดีไหม

Meaning

A common, polite way to ask someone how they are doing, often used after initial greetings.

Usage and formality

This phrase is widely used in everyday conversation and is considered polite. It's suitable for most situations, from casual encounters to more formal settings, especially when addressing someone you don't know very well or someone older.

Pronunciation

sa - low tone
bai - mid tone
dee - mid tone
mai - falling tone

Pay attention to the tones, as they are crucial for clear communication in Thai.

Grammar

Thai often omits subjects when they are understood from context. In this phrase, the implied subject is 'you' and the implied verb is 'to be'. The question particle 'ไหม' (mai) turns the statement 'สบายดี' (sabai dee - to be well/fine) into a question.

Word by word

• สบาย (sa bai): comfortable, well
• ดี (dee): good
• ไหม (mai): question particle

Notes

สบายดีไหม (sa bai dee mai) - How are you? A common polite question after greetings.