Hello there! Learning how to say “ah, I see” in Korean is a useful phrase that can help you express understanding in various situations. Whether you want to sound more polite or casual, we’ve got you covered! In this guide, we’ll explore both the formal and informal ways to say “ah, I see” in Korean, along with some regional variations if necessary. So let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
1. Formal Ways to Say “Ah, I See” in Korean
If you want to convey a more polite tone or if you’re speaking to someone older or in a professional setting, using formal language is appropriate. Here are a few options:
1.1 그렇군요 (Geureohgunyo)
This is a common phrase used formally to acknowledge understanding. It is a straightforward expression that can be used in various contexts. Let’s take a look at an example:
Example:
Person A: A: 제가 이 일에 어려움을 겪고 있어요. (Je ga i ire eoryeoumeul geukgo isseoyo)
Person B: 그렇군요. 저도 도와드릴까요? (Geureohgunyo. Jeodo dowadrilkkayo?)
Translation:
Person A: I’m facing difficulty with this task.
Person B: Ah, I see. Shall I help you?
1.2 알겠습니다 (Algesseumnida)
This phrase is another formal way of saying “I understand” in Korean. It showcases respect and acknowledgement of the information received. Here’s an example:
Example:
Person A: 내일은 제안서를 작성해야 해요. (Naeireun jeanseoro jaksonghaeya haeyo.)
Person B: 알겠습니다. 제 시간에 제출하겠습니다. (Algesseumnida. Je sigane jechulhagesseumnida.)
Translation:
Person A: I have to write a proposal tomorrow.
Person B: Ah, I see. I will submit it on time.
2. Informal Ways to Say “Ah, I See” in Korean
If you’re in a more casual or friendly setting, or speaking with someone closer in age, you can use informal language. Here are a couple of options:
2.1 아, 알았어 (Ah, arasseo)
This is a commonly used informal phrase that translates to “ah, I got it” or “ah, I see” in English. It’s a straightforward and casual way to express understanding. Check out an example below:
Example:
Person A: 오늘은 왜 늦게 온 거야? (Oneureun wae neutge on geoya?)
Person B: 아, 알았어. 진짜 미안해. (Ah, arasseo. Jinjja mianhae.)
Translation:
Person A: Why did you come late today?
Person B: Ah, I see. I’m really sorry.
2.2 알았어요 (Arasseoyo)
This is the polite informal version of “I understand” in Korean. It is often used when speaking with friends, colleagues, or acquaintances. Take a look at the following example:
Example:
Person A: 우리 다음 주에 봐요. (Uri daeum jue bwayo.)
Person B: 알았어요. 그럼 그때 봐요! (Arasseoyo. Geureom geuttae bwayo!)
Translation:
Person A: Let’s meet next week.
Person B: Ah, I see. Then let’s meet at that time!
Conclusion
There you have it! Now you know both the formal and informal ways to say “ah, I see” in Korean. Remember, using the appropriate level of formality is crucial in Korean culture, so make sure to consider your relationship with the person you’re speaking to and the context of the conversation. By incorporating these expressions into your Korean language skills, you’ll be able to effectively show understanding and engage in conversations with Koreans.
Keep practicing and immersing yourself in the language to become even more comfortable using these phrases. Before you know it, you’ll be navigating Korean conversations like a pro! Happy learning!
