English in Thailand: looking back to the past, at the present and towards the future

Abstract

English has been taking its journey in Thailand for at least two centuries. Certainly, in different periods of time, it has played different roles, served different functions and has been used by different groups of people in Thai society. Its long existence in the country has had some influence on the use and attitudes of Thais. In addition, the current status of English as a dominant international language worldwide has a great impact on English usage in Thailand today. This paper describes the past events and the present situation, and closes with a discussion of the future of English in the country.