Basic Greetings
When learning a new language, greetings are always a good place to start. In Korean, greetings can vary based on time of day and the level of formality required.
Common Greetings
Here are some essential greetings you should know:
- 안녕하세요 (Annyeonghaseyo) - Hello (formal)
- 안녕 (Annyeong) - Hi/Hello (informal)
- 안녕히 가세요 (Annyeonghi gaseyo) - Goodbye (to someone leaving)
- 안녕히 계세요 (Annyeonghi gyeseyo) - Goodbye (to someone staying)
- 감사합니다 (Gamsahamnida) - Thank you (formal)
- 고마워 (Gomawo) - Thank you (informal)
Common Expressions
Expressions can add depth to your conversations and allow you to express yourself more fully. Here are some common phrases you may find useful:
Polite Expressions
- 죄송합니다 (Joesonghamnida) - I'm sorry (formal)
- 미안해 (Mianhae) - I'm sorry (informal)
- 괜찮아요 (Gwaenchanhayo) - It's okay (formal)
- 괜찮아 (Gwaenchanha) - It's okay (informal)
- 도와주세요 (Dowajuseyo) - Please help me (formal)
Conversational Phrases
In everyday conversation, you might find these phrases helpful:
- 이해했어요 (Ihaehaess-eoyo) - I understand (formal)
- 이해 못했어요 (Ihae mothaess-eoyo) - I don’t understand (formal)
- 어디예요? (Eodiyeyo?) - Where is it?
- 얼마예요? (Eolmayeyo?) - How much is it?
- 이것은 뭐예요? (Igeoseun mwoyeyo?) - What is this?
Numbers in Korean
Understanding numbers is crucial for various situations, such as shopping, ordering food, or telling time. Korean has two number systems: native Korean and Sino-Korean.
Native Korean Numbers (1-10)
Here are the native Korean numbers:
- 하나 (Hana) - 1
- 둘 (Dul) - 2
- 셋 (Set) - 3
- 넷 (Net) - 4
- 다섯 (Daseot) - 5
- 여섯 (Yeoseot) - 6
- 일곱 (Ilgop) - 7
- 여덟 (Yeodeol) - 8
- 아홉 (Ahop) - 9
- 열 (Yeol) - 10
Sino-Korean Numbers (1-10)
Sino-Korean numbers are derived from Chinese and are used for counting objects, telling time, and more:
- 일 (Il) - 1
- 이 (I) - 2
- 삼 (Sam) - 3
- 사 (Sa) - 4
- 오 (O) - 5
- 육 (Yuk) - 6
- 칠 (Chil) - 7
- 팔 (Pal) - 8
- 구 (Gu) - 9
- 십 (Sip) - 10
Food and Dining Vocabulary
Korean cuisine is renowned for its flavors and variety. Knowing food-related vocabulary can enhance your dining experience.
Food-Related Words
Here are some common food-related words:
- 밥 (Bap) - Rice/meal
- 김치 (Kimchi) - Fermented vegetable dish
- 고기 (Gogi) - Meat
- 야채 (Yachae) - Vegetables
- 물 (Mul) - Water
Dining Phrases
When dining out, use these phrases:
- 메뉴 주세요 (Menyu juseyo) - Please give me the menu.
- 추천해 주세요 (Chucheonhe juseyo) - Please recommend something.
- 계산서 주세요 (Gyesanseo juseyo) - Please bring the bill.
Travel Vocabulary
If you're traveling in Korea, knowing some travel vocabulary can make your journey smoother.
Transportation Terms
Here are some essential transportation-related words:
- 지하철 (Jihacheol) - Subway
- 버스 (Beoseu) - Bus
- 택시 (Taegsi) - Taxi
- 공항 (Gonghang) - Airport
- 기차 (Gicha) - Train
Travel Phrases
These phrases can be helpful while traveling:
- 이곳으로 가 주세요 (Igoseuro ga juseyo) - Please take me to this place.
- 이 근처에 호텔이 있나요? (I geuncheoe hoteli innayo?) - Is there a hotel nearby?
- 지도를 보여 주세요 (Jido-reul boyeo juseyo) - Please show me the map.
Conclusion
Learning common Korean words and phrases is a rewarding endeavor that can significantly enrich your experience in Korea or while interacting with Korean speakers. Whether you are exploring the rich culinary traditions, navigating the bustling streets, or simply engaging in casual conversation, these words and phrases will serve as a solid foundation. As you continue your language journey, remember that practice is key. Use these expressions in context, and don't hesitate to engage with native speakers. Happy learning!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Korean word for 'hello'?
'안녕하세요' (annyeonghaseyo) is the common way to say hello in Korean.
How do you say 'thank you' in Korean?
'감사합니다' (gamsahamnida) is the formal way to express gratitude in Korean.
What is the Korean phrase for 'I love you'?
'사랑해요' (salanghaeyo) is used to say I love you in a polite manner.
What does '괜찮아요' (gwaenchanhayo) mean?
'괜찮아요' means 'It's okay' or 'I'm okay' in Korean.
How do you ask 'How are you?' in Korean?
'어떻게 지내세요?' (eotteoke jinaeseyo?) is the phrase used to ask someone how they are.
What is the Korean word for 'yes'?
'네' (ne) is the word for yes in Korean.
How do you say 'goodbye' in Korean?
'안녕히 가세요' (annyeonghi gaseyo) is used to say goodbye to someone who is leaving.
What is the Korean phrase for 'I'm sorry'?
'죄송합니다' (joesonghamnida) is the formal way to apologize in Korean.
