15. Honorific Forms in Korean

In any language, courtesy and respect are essential, and Korean is no exception. In the Korean language, there are different levels of formality and politeness known as honorific forms. In this chapter, we are going to discuss 15 honorific forms in Korean that are essential for communicating respectfully and politely.

1. 존댓말 (Jondaetmal)

It is the most common way to speak respectfully in Korean. It is used when talking to older people, people you have just met, or when speaking in a formal situation. For example, '안녕하세요?' (Annyeonghaseyo?) is the Jondaetmal form of 'Hello'.

2. 반말 (Banmal)

It is the informal way of speaking in Korean. It is used between close friends, people of the same age or younger people. For example, '안녕?' (Annyeong?) is the Banmal form of 'Hello'.

3. 높임말 (Nopimmal)

It's a way of speaking that elevates the status of the person you're talking to. It is used to show respect for people of higher status, such as your boss or teacher.

4. 겸양말 (Gyeomyangmal)

It's a way of speaking that lowers your status in relation to the person you're talking to. It is used to show humility and respect.

5. 존칭 (Joncheong)

It is the use of honorifics to refer to people. For example, '-님' (-nim) is an honorific used to refer to people in a higher position.

6. 높임법 (Nopimbeop)

It is the use of specific verb forms to show respect. For example, '드시다' (goddess) is the honorific form of the verb 'to eat'.

7. 하오체 (Haoche)

It's an archaic form of speech that was used in the royal court. Although it is no longer commonly used, you can find it in Korean historical dramas.

8. 하게체 (Hageche)

It is a form of speech that was used between people of similar status in the royal court. Like Haoche, it is not commonly used anymore, but you can find it in Korean historical dramas.

9. 하십시오체 (Hasipsioche)

It is a form of speech that is used in formal situations or when talking to older people. It is similar to Jondaetmal, but a little more formal.

10. 해라체 (Haerache)

It is a form of speech that is used in formal or literary writing. It's not commonly used in everyday speech, but you can find it in books and newspapers.

11. 해요체 (Haeyoche)

It is the most common form of speaking in casual situations. It is less formal than Hasipsioche, but more formal than Banmal.

12. 허락체 (Heorakche)

It is a form of speech that is used to ask for permission. For example, '먹어도 될까요?' (Meogeodo doelkkayo?) means 'May I eat?'.

13. 명령체 (Myeongryeongche)

It is a form of speech that is used to give orders or instructions. For example, '먹어라' (Meogeora) means 'Eat'.

14. 감탄체 (Gamtanche)

It is a form of speech that is used to express admiration or surprise. For example, '멋있어!' (Meosisseo!) means 'This is amazing!'.

15. 비속어 (Bisoge)

It is the form of speech that is used in very informal situations or between close friends. It is similar to Banmal, but can be considered rude if used in inappropriate situations.

In short, honorific forms in Korean are an important aspect of the language that reflects the Korean culture of respect and courtesy. When learning Korean, it is important to understand and properly use these honorific forms in order to communicate respectfully and politely.

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