ນ້ອຍໃຈ

Yes, absolutely. While it's sometimes seen as more common for women to express it, men use it frequently with their partners and family.

Not necessarily. It's a natural part of Lao social life. However, being 'khee noy jai' (someone who is always hurt) is seen as a negative personality trait.

Acknowledge the neglect, say 'khon thod' (sorry), and then 'ao jai' them by giving them attention or a small gift.

Pouting (ngon) is the *result* of feeling 'Noy Jai.' One is the feeling, the other is the action.

Only with colleagues you are very close to. With a big boss, it's better to use more formal language about 'expectations.'

There isn't a direct single-word opposite, but 'di jai' (happy/glad) or 'phum jai' (proud) are the positive heart states.

It's a specific kind of sadness mixed with disappointment in a person. It's not 'depressed' sadness.

Yes, 'ນ້ອຍໃຈໃນຕົວເອງ' (noy jai nai tua eng) means feeling disappointed in your own lack of progress or luck.

Yes, it is one of the most common themes in Lao pop and country (Luk Thung) music.

It is spelled น้อยใจ.

It is neutral. You can use it in a book or in a text message.

No, for a broken heart use 'sia jai' or 'ok hak'.

You can say 'noy jai nit noi' (hurt a little bit).

Just saying 'Noy' (ນ້ອຍ) is common among teenagers.