المعنى
Not helping and also obstructing others
خلفية ثقافية
The proverb reflects the 'Water Culture' of the Central Plains. Because communities were built along rivers, the boat was the primary symbol of collective survival and progress. In Thai offices, 'Kreng Jai' often prevents people from speaking up directly. Using this proverb is a way to use 'traditional wisdom' to deliver a sharp rebuke without it being a purely personal attack. This phrase is a staple in Thai political rhetoric. It is frequently used by the ruling government to silence opposition, labeling any criticism as 'obstructive' rather than 'constructive.' Children are taught this proverb early in school as part of 'Moral Education' (Sila-dhamma). It is used to instill the value of teamwork and discourage selfishness.
Use it to call out 'Backseat Drivers'
It's the perfect phrase for someone giving unhelpful advice while you're doing all the work.
High Intensity
This is a strong criticism. Use it only when you are genuinely frustrated, as it can damage relationships.
المعنى
Not helping and also obstructing others
Use it to call out 'Backseat Drivers'
It's the perfect phrase for someone giving unhelpful advice while you're doing all the work.
High Intensity
This is a strong criticism. Use it only when you are genuinely frustrated, as it can damage relationships.
The 'Ya' Prefix
Always start with 'Ya' (Don't) if you want to sound like a native speaker giving a warning.
Face Saving
If you use this in a group, everyone will know exactly who you are talking about, even if you don't name names.
اختبر نفسك
Fill in the missing words to complete the proverb.
มือไม่____เอา____ราน้ำ
The correct words are 'พาย' (paddle) and 'เท้า' (foot).
Which situation best describes 'มือไม่พายเอาเท้าราน้ำ'?
Which of these people is 'มือไม่พายเอาเท้าราน้ำ'?
The proverb specifically refers to someone who doesn't help AND obstructs/criticizes.
Complete the dialogue with the most appropriate response.
A: 'ทำไมคุณไม่ช่วยเราล้างจานล่ะ?' B: 'ฉันว่าพวกเธอใช้ซันไลต์เยอะไปนะ เปลืองน้ำด้วย' A: '________'
B is criticizing without helping, which is the perfect time to use the proverb.
Choose the sentence that uses the phrase correctly in a formal context.
Which sentence is most appropriate for a business report?
Option B uses formal vocabulary like 'หลีกเลี่ยง' (avoid) and 'ทัศนคติ' (attitude).
🎉 النتيجة: /4
وسائل تعلم بصرية
بنك التمارين
4 تمارينมือไม่____เอา____ราน้ำ
The correct words are 'พาย' (paddle) and 'เท้า' (foot).
Which of these people is 'มือไม่พายเอาเท้าราน้ำ'?
The proverb specifically refers to someone who doesn't help AND obstructs/criticizes.
A: 'ทำไมคุณไม่ช่วยเราล้างจานล่ะ?' B: 'ฉันว่าพวกเธอใช้ซันไลต์เยอะไปนะ เปลืองน้ำด้วย' A: '________'
B is criticizing without helping, which is the perfect time to use the proverb.
Which sentence is most appropriate for a business report?
Option B uses formal vocabulary like 'หลีกเลี่ยง' (avoid) and 'ทัศนคติ' (attitude).
🎉 النتيجة: /4
الأسئلة الشائعة
10 أسئلةIt is critical and direct. While not 'profane,' it is a sharp social rebuke. Use with caution.
Yes! You can say 'ขอโทษทีที่มือไม่พายเอาเท้าราน้ำ' (Sorry for being a drag) if you realize you're being unhelpful.
The closest positive phrase is 'ร่วมแรงร่วมใจ' (joining forces/hearts).
Yes, it's very common in memes and social media comments regarding social issues.
No, it's almost never used for boats today. It's 99% figurative.
Not really. If you shorten it, it loses its meaning. It's a fixed proverb.
In this context, it means to dip or drag something in the water to slow down or stop a boat.
Very often, especially when discussing team efficiency or 'toxic' employees.
You could say 'อยากให้ช่วยกันมากกว่าครับ' (I'd prefer if we helped each other more).
Yes, 'ดีแต่พูด' (Dee tae phoot).
عبارات ذات صلة
ตัวถ่วง
similarA person who slows down progress; a 'drag'.
ดีแต่พูด
similarAll talk, no action.
ขัดแข้งขัดขา
similarTo trip someone up; to interfere.
ร่วมด้วยช่วยกัน
contrastTo join hands and help each other.
