funeral
A native Thai recording for this word is on the way. Please check back soon.
- 1 funeral
A common word for a funeral or the ceremonies held to mourn someone who has died.
funeral
A ceremony or series of events where people gather to mourn and honor someone who has died.
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พรุ่งนี้ฉันต้องไปงานศพ phrûŋníi chǎn tɔ̂ŋ pay ŋaan sòp I have to go to a funeral tomorrow. พรุ่งนี้ฉันต้องไปงานศพ details
Learning notes
Explanation
The word combines งาน, “event or ceremony,” with ศพ, “a dead body.” Together, they form the ordinary Thai word for a funeral. In Thailand it often refers to a Buddhist funeral held at a temple. Depending on context, it may cover the whole period of chanting, condolence visits, and cremation, or just one gathering within those rites. Common combinations include ไปงานศพ, “go to a funeral,” จัดงานศพ, “arrange or hold a funeral,” and ร่วมงานศพ, “attend a funeral.” Funerals can be counted with งาน, as in งานศพสองงาน, “two funerals.”
Usage
Used when discussing a funeral’s schedule, location, attendance, clothing, or arrangements. It is a standard term suitable for both everyday conversation and funeral announcements.
Caution
On its own, ศพ means “dead body” or “corpse,” so it is not a respectful way to refer to the deceased as a person. Use terms such as ผู้เสียชีวิต or ผู้ล่วงลับ when respectful wording is needed. Also, งานศพ refers broadly to a funeral, not only to the act of cremation.