ถ่อมตัว | thòm-dtua | To be humble; self-effacing

Insight Hub

• The Cultural Mirror
  

  Western View: Often misdiagnosed as low self-esteem, lack of confidence, or an irritating inability to accept a compliment gracefully.

  Thai Reality: This is a strategic survival tactic to avoid becoming a target of envy or aggression. By verbally and physically making yourself small, you signal to the group that you pose no threat to the established hierarchy.