Free reference chart
Thai consonant classes
The Thai script divides all 44 consonants into three classes: low, middle and high. That class — together with tone markers — determines the tone of a word. This chart gives you the tone rules per class in one overview.
Tone rules per class — summary
| Class | No marker | ่ (mai ek) | ้ (mai tho) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mid (9) | Mid tone | Low tone | Falling tone |
| Low (24) | Mid tone | Falling tone | High tone |
| High (11) | Rising tone | Low tone | Falling tone |
Main consonants
ก
g/k
จ
j
ด
d
ต
t
บ
b
ป
p
อ
o/oo
ฎ
d
Tone rules
Main consonants
ง
ng
ณ/น
n
ม
m
ย
y
ร
r
ล/ฬ
l
ว
w
ค/ฆ
kh
Tone rules
Main consonants
ข/ฃ
kh
ฉ
ch
ถ/ฐ
th
ผ
ph
ฝ
f
ษ/ส
s
ห
h
ฬ
l
Tone rules
Tip: start with the middle class
The middle class has only 9 consonants and the most consistent tone rules — it is the logical starting point. Learn the middle class first, then the high class (which is also consistent), and only then the low class. This way you build up the system from simple to complex. The recommended learning order is explained in the complete script guide.
More about the Thai script
Learning Thai script — complete guide
The Thai alphabet: 44 consonants, 32 vowels and consonant classes explained.
All 44 Thai consonants
Overview of all consonants with class, sound and tone effect.
Thai tones — reference chart
The 5 Thai tones with Paiboon+ markers and example words.
Paiboon+ romanization
Complete guide to the most widely used romanization system for Thai.
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