Courtesy expressions are an essential part of any language, and Korean is no different. In this basic Korean course, you will learn a variety of courtesy expressions that are essential for effective and respectful communication. This eBook chapter will focus on 18 Korean courtesy expressions that you can start using right away.
1. 안녕하세요 (Annyeonghaseyo): This is the most common way to say "Hello" in Korean. It is an expression of courtesy that can be used at any time of the day and in any situation.
2. 감사합니다 (Gamsahamnida): This expression means "Thank you". It's a polite way of expressing gratitude and is used in many different contexts.
3. 죄송합니다 (Joesonghamnida): This is the way to say "Sorry" in Korean. It's important to use this expression when you make a mistake or need to apologize.
4. 잘 먹겠습니다 (Jal meokgesseumnida): This expression is used before eating and means "I'm going to eat well". It's a polite way of showing appreciation for the food you're about to eat.
5. 잘 자요 (Jal jayo): This is the way to say "Good night" in Korean. It's an expression of courtesy you can use when saying goodbye to someone at night.
6. 만나서 반갑습니다 (Mannaseo bangapseumnida): This expression means "Nice to meet you". It's a polite way of greeting someone you've just met.
7. 어떻게 지내세요? (Eotteoke jinaeseyo?): This expression means "How are you?". It's a polite way of asking about someone's well-being.
8. 안녕히 계세요 (Annyeonghi gyeseyo): This expression is used to say "Goodbye" to someone staying while you are leaving.
9. 안녕히 가세요 (Annyeonghi gaseyo): This expression is used to say "Goodbye" to someone who is leaving while you are staying.
10. 축하합니다 (Chukahamnida): This expression means "Congratulations". It's a polite way of celebrating someone's success or good fortune.
11. 건배 (Geonbae): This expression is used to make a toast in Korean. It means "Health".
12. 실례합니다 (Sillyehamnida): This expression means "Excuse me" and is used when you need to get someone's attention or interrupt someone.
13. 잠깐만요 (Jamkkanmanyo): This expression means "One moment, please" and is used when you need a little time.
14. 도와주세요 (Dowajuseyo): This expression means "Please help me". It's a polite way to ask for help when you need it.
15. 기다려주세요 (Gidaryeojuseyo): This expression means "Please wait". It's a polite way of asking someone to wait.
16. 이해했습니다 (Ihaehaetseumnida): This expression means "I understand". It's a polite way of showing you understood what was said.
17. 모르겠습니다 (Moreugesseumnida): This expression means "I don't know". It's a polite way of expressing uncertainty or lack of knowledge.
18. 좋아요 (Joayo): This expression means "I like". It's a polite way of expressing approval or appreciation.
These courtesy expressions are key to communicating effectively in Korean. Learning and using these expressions will help you build stronger relationships and show respect for Korean culture. Remember, practice is the key to becoming fluent in these expressions, so keep practicing and using them in your everyday conversations.
