Gaining fluency in a new language involves understanding various aspects of its vocabulary. One essential word in Korean, when initiating any action or conversation, is “begin.” In this guide, we will explore the diverse ways to express the concept of “begin” in Korean, both formally and informally. Let’s dive in!
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Formal Ways to Say “Begin” in Korean
When addressing someone with respect or in formal situations, you can use the following Korean words or phrases to convey the meaning of “begin”:
1. 시작하다 (Shijak-hada)
This is the most standard and commonly used word for “begin” in formal contexts. It can be used in various situations, such as starting a project, course, or event. Here’s an example:
Example: 수업을 시작하겠습니다. (Suyeopeul shijak-hagesseumnida.)
(We will begin the class now.)
2. 개시하다 (Gaeshi-hada)
This word is less frequently used but still formal. It is often found in legal or official documents, indicating the beginning of a specific action or process. Let’s see an example:
Example: 회의가 개시되었습니다. (Hoe-iga gaeshi-dwaesseumnida.)
(The meeting has begun.)
Informal Ways to Say “Begin” in Korean
When speaking informally with friends, family, or peers, you can employ the following terms to express the concept of “begin” in Korean:
1. 시작해 (Shijak-hae)
This is the informal version of “시작하다” mentioned earlier. It is commonly used among close acquaintances or in casual settings:
Example: 영화를 시작해. (Yeonghwareul shijak-hae.)
(Let’s start the movie.)
2. 시작이야 (Shijak-iya)
Similar to the previous phrase, this is an informal way of saying “begin” and is often used in everyday conversations:
Example: 축구 경기 시작이야! (Chukgu gyeonggi shijak-iya!)
(The soccer game is starting!)
Tips and Additional Examples
Here are some additional tips and examples to enhance your understanding of how to say “begin” in Korean:
Tips:
- When speaking Korean, gestures such as raising your hand or counting down with your fingers can also indicate the beginning of an action or event.
- If you plan to visit South Korea or communicate with native Korean speakers, it is crucial to learn the appropriate level of formality based on the situation.
- Keep in mind that context plays a significant role in choosing the right word or phrase for “begin.”
Additional Examples:
- 식사를 시작해요. (Sigsareul shijakhaeyo.) – Let’s start the meal.
- 프로젝트가 시작되었습니다. (Peurojekteuga shijak-dwaesseumnida.) – The project has begun.
- 수업이 언제 시작하세요? (Suyeop-i eonje shijakhaseyo?) – When does the class start?
- 오늘부터 국제여행이 시작됩니다. (Oneulbuteo gukjeyohaeng-i shijakdwaesseumnida.) – International travel starts from today.
By familiarizing yourself with both formal and informal ways to say “begin” in Korean, you’ll be able to confidently initiate various conversations or activities using the appropriate level of politeness. Remember to practice these phrases in real-life situations to become more comfortable and fluent in the Korean language. Happy learning!
