nan khae nai?
นานแค่ไหน?
This phrase is a direct and common way to inquire about the duration of something. It is used to ask 'How long?' when referring to a period of time, such as the length of an event, a stay, or a process. While 'นาน' can also refer to physical length, in this specific construction with 'แค่ไหน', it almost exclusively pertains to temporal duration.
This is a common interrogative structure in Thai used to ask 'how [adjective]?' or 'to what extent/degree [adjective]?'. The particle 'แค่' (khae) emphasizes the degree or limit, and 'ไหน' (nai) turns it into a question about that degree. For example, 'ใหญ่แค่ไหน?' (yai khae nai - how big?), 'สูงแค่ไหน?' (sung khae nai - how tall?).
Practical peer review by Hawk
Practical analysis
Quick Take
This is the standard way to ask 'how long?' about time duration in Thai. Completely neutral and appropriate in all situations. Essential phrase that every learner needs.
Accuracy
The explanation is accurate. Romanization is correct, word meanings are precise, and the grammar explanation of the แค่ไหน structure is spot-on.
Perfectly neutral - works in formal and casual contexts. You won't sound weird using this anywhere.
Common Pitfalls
Don't confuse นาน (time duration) with ยาว (physical length) - both mean 'long' but different contexts
Pronounce นาน with mid tone, not falling tone - wrong tone changes meaning completely
Better Alternatives
กี่นาน (gii nan) is more colloquial but นานแค่ไหน is more standard and widely understood
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