My first ink: please don't let Google Translate muck it up.
June 1, 2015 7:59 PM Subscribe
In a week or so, I'm getting my first tat, and I'm seeking proficient Thai speakers to help me avoid an unfortunate 'choice.' Yep, that's the word in question.
The story is quite long and wonderful as to why Thai and why that word, but let's just say I had a transformative experience in northern Thailand that all boils down to making a choice and sticking to it. After looking through a variety of translations and synonyms that approach what I'm looking for, this one seems to be the best fit: เจตจำนง. If that doesn't render properly, imgur. It seems to encompass choice in the context of willingness, and it feels right. *But* I don't want to make the fatal mistake of a 42yr old dude who will no doubt be a bit of a wuss the first time around only to find out later it means headstrong creampuff. If you could either verify this is correct or suggest more accurate alternatives, I'll possible tattoo Metafilter next in gratitude. Sawasdee!
The story is quite long and wonderful as to why Thai and why that word, but let's just say I had a transformative experience in northern Thailand that all boils down to making a choice and sticking to it. After looking through a variety of translations and synonyms that approach what I'm looking for, this one seems to be the best fit: เจตจำนง. If that doesn't render properly, imgur. It seems to encompass choice in the context of willingness, and it feels right. *But* I don't want to make the fatal mistake of a 42yr old dude who will no doubt be a bit of a wuss the first time around only to find out later it means headstrong creampuff. If you could either verify this is correct or suggest more accurate alternatives, I'll possible tattoo Metafilter next in gratitude. Sawasdee!
Response by poster: Thanks so much. A choice willingly made is *exactly* the sentiment behind the piece. It means a great deal, I really appreciate it!
posted by moonbird at 7:56 PM on June 2, 2015
posted by moonbird at 7:56 PM on June 2, 2015
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One said the word was "a bit formal", but meant what you said: a choice, willingly made.
The other said เจตจำนง was an unusual word (she had to look it up in a dictionary), and thought the meaning was closer to "intention" or "willingness". After she looked it up, though, she agreed with my other friend: it's a slightly formal word, but means a choice, willingly made.
Hope that helps!
posted by beijingbrown at 1:16 AM on June 2, 2015 [2 favorites]