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The Phi-Nong System
Home » Thailand » Thailand People & Culture » The Phi-Nong SystemWhen getting to know Thais, they will be eager to ask you how old you are. This is not to be rude but to insure that they are showing you proper respect. In any given relationship, a “Phi” is the older person and he or she is called “Phi John” or “Phi Mary”. This is a title of respect. The “nong” is the younger person and is addressed “Nong Guy” or simply, “nong”. This “system” works beautifully in the social fabric of Thailand. The “phi” looks after the “nong” and offers advice, protection or even monetary help, while the “nong” offers respect and eagerness to help the “phi”. Thais don’t normally greet one another with a handshake, but with a hand gesture called a “wai”. A “nong” will “wai” a “phi” with his or her hands closer to eye level while a “phi” will “wai” a “nong” with his or her hands closer to the chin. In other words, the higher your hands, the greater respect you are communicating.
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