Learning how to say “Are you done?” in Korean is a useful phrase to have under your belt, whether you’re traveling in Korea or simply engaging with Korean friends or business partners. In this guide, we’ll explore the formal and informal ways to express this question, along with some regional variations if necessary. So, let’s dive in and discover how to communicate this idea in Korean!
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Say “Are You Done?”
1. “끝났습니까?” (kkeutnassumnikka?) – This is the most formal way to ask someone if they are done. This phrase is useful when you’re speaking to someone you have to show respect towards, such as someone older or of higher authority. Example:
A: 코치님, 실습이 다 끝났습니까? (Kochinim, silseubi da kkeutnassumnikka?)
B: 네, 다 끝났어요. (Ne, da kkeutnasseoyo.)
A: Coach, are you done with the practice?
B: Yes, I’m done.
2. “마치셨습니까?” (machisyotsumnikka?) – This is another formal way to ask if someone has finished something. Use this phrase with individuals you need to show politeness towards. Example:
A: 회의를 마치셨습니까? (Hoeuireul machisyotsumnikka?)
B: 네, 회의를 이미 마쳤습니다. (Ne, hoeuireul imi machyeotseumnida.)
A: Have you finished the meeting?
B: Yes, I already finished the meeting.
Informal Ways to Say “Are You Done?”
1. “끝났어?” (kkeutnasseo?) – This is the informal way to ask if someone is done. You can use this phrase with friends, family members, or people of similar age or authority. Example:
A: 숙제 끝났어? (Sukje kkeutnasseo?)
B: 아직 안 끝났어. (Ajik an kkeutnasseo.)
A: Are you done with the homework?
B: Not yet.
2. “끝났어요?” (kkeutnasseoyo?) – This is a polite casual version commonly used when speaking to someone who is older or of higher authority but still within a comfortable relationship. Example:
A: 읽기를 다 끝났어요? (Ilgireul da kkeutnasseoyo?)
B: 네, 다 읽었어요. (Ne, da ilgeosseoyo.)
A: Have you finished reading?
B: Yes, I finished reading it.
Regional Variations
When exploring regional variations, we must mention the Busan dialect. Busan, a coastal city in the southern part of South Korea, boasts a charming dialect with unique pronunciations and vocabulary. In Busan, people often replace the verb “끝났어?” with “끝났습니까요?” (kkeutnasseumnikayo?) for both formal and informal situations. Example:
A: 숙제 끝났습니까요? (Sukje kkeutnasseumnikayo?)
B: 아직 안 끝났읍니다. (Ajik an kkeutnatseumnida.)
A: Are you done with the homework?
B: Not yet.
Tips for Using These Phrases
– Remember to use polite language when speaking to someone older or in a higher position than you.
– Pay attention to the level of formality required in each situation and adjust your expressions accordingly.
– Non-verbal cues like body language and tone of voice play a significant role in conveying politeness, so be mindful of them as well.
– Practice pronunciation to ensure your words are clear and easy to understand.
– You can also use hand gestures to accompany your phrase, such as raising your palms upwards to indicate completion.
Conclusion
Now that you know several ways to ask “Are you done?” in Korean, you can confidently communicate with Koreans in various settings. Whether you’re engaging in formal or informal conversations, or even venturing into the charming Busan dialect, these phrases will help you express yourself politely and effectively. Remember to observe the level of formality in each situation and adjust accordingly, while also paying attention to non-verbal cues. Enjoy your journey of learning the Korean language. 화이팅! (Hwaiting!)
