I think I know what you might be talking about but then again I couldn't. Could you please give us a better explanation or better yet an example. (Like from a movie or something)
Is it like a quick "heh" sound?

I know that in many Isaan areas they use a Lao term for yes (or similar positive respone) but the best way I could translate it is like an ehh or an uhh sound. Could that be what you hear, or do you have that one figured out already?

That inhaling sound
 

This may sound a very odd request. But I am curious for personal reasons.

I wonder if you guys have noticed some people making the sudden 'inhaling' sound when they either meet someone suddenly; or when they are acknowledging a interesting topic...

I have with some peoples and want to know if you have witnessed it as a practise in any parts of Thailand...especially rural?

No I am way off base then. http://www.thailandqa.com/forum/images/smilies/wink.png

Í×Í àÍÍ and Í×Á are pretty common not just with issan, but all over. http://www.thailandguidebook.com/iB_...cons/smile.gif

Maybe your talking about Í×ÁÁÁ ? That would sound like a inhaling-type sound (although it actually isn't).

kinda to do with breathing, why is Menthol inhaled as an everyday sorta thing to do...instead of when you have a cold....surely its not too healthy?

Personally I have never noticed this sound.

I think IgotNOtime thats more like it?!
And if its true, I am glad its from a rural section (right?).

Because if the sound you mention is the same as I think... I get some sense of emotion. About people who are trying to tell the other person how deeply they are impressed with what they hear/see. In a rather deeper manner. And than it becomes a behaviour?

Some people in Kerala here in India do so often and I was just guessing.... my amateur investigation of this world!!!

Eskiasu, I am sorry for causing that!! Yes, I think I should try recording that and sending it across... Will try if I can...

This sound definitely needs to be figured out because it's really start to get on my nerve. Maybe record your voice and post it to give us a sample.

Hi...eskiasu... thanks for figuring it... the sound is a bit like a hiccup. But the drag in of air is a bit longer... A bit like when some is suddenly shocked... but again a minor variation to it.

I know this is a little hard to explain and odd question. But well I am very curious about it.

Either way see you on the NEW FORUM. Hope you read Sawatdee's post on it!