Welcome to our guide on how to say “bill” in Korean! Whether you are traveling to Korea, living in Korea, or simply interested in learning the Korean language, it’s always helpful to know how to communicate about finances and payments. In this guide, we will cover the formal and informal ways to say “bill” in Korean, along with some useful tips, practical examples, and regional variations.
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Formal Ways to Say “Bill” in Korean
When it comes to formal situations, such as business transactions, official meetings, or interacting with someone older/superior, Koreans usually opt for polite language. Here are three common formal ways to say “bill” in Korean:
1. 계산서 (Gyesanseo)
The most commonly used formal term for “bill” in Korean is 계산서 (gyesanseo). This term is widely recognized and accepted in formal settings, and you will frequently encounter it in restaurants, hotels, or stores when you need to request or pay a bill.
Example: “현금으로 계산서를 받을 수 있을까요?” (Hyeongeumeuro gyesanseo-reul badeul su isseulkkayo?)
(May I have the bill in cash, please?)
2. 청구서 (Cheongguseo)
In formal settings, 청구서 (cheongguseo) can also be used to refer to a bill. While 계산서 (gyesanseo) is more widely used, 청구서 (cheongguseo) is often seen in business or legal contexts, such as billing statements, invoices, or official documents.
Example: “저희가 청구서를 수령한 후에 지불하겠습니다.” (Jeohuiga cheongguseo-reul sureonghan hue jibulhagesseumnida.)
(We will pay after receiving the bill.)
3. 대금서 (Daegumseo)
Another formal term for “bill” in Korean is 대금서 (daegumseo). This word is often used in more technical or business-oriented contexts when referring to a payment due or an outstanding amount.
Example: “깜박한 대금서를 찾아야 해서요.” (Kkambakhan daegumseo-reul chajaya haeseoyo.)
(I need to find the forgotten bill.)
Informal Ways to Say “Bill” in Korean
When you are in casual situations or interacting with friends, family, or people of the same age or younger, you can use less formal language. Here are two common informal ways to say “bill” in Korean:
1. 계산 (Gyesan)
The most commonly used informal term for “bill” in Korean is 계산 (gyesan). This term is frequently used in everyday conversational settings.
Example: “카카오페이로 계산할까요?” (Kakaopeiro gyesan-halkkayo?)
(Shall we split the bill using KakaoPay?)
2. 영수증 (Yeongsujeung)
Another informal term you may come across is 영수증 (yeongsujeung), which is commonly used to refer to a receipt. While it specifically denotes the proof of payment, the term can also be used interchangeably with “bill” in less formal situations.
Example: “이미 영수증을 버렸어?” (Imi yeongsujeung-eul beoryeosseo?)
(Did you already throw away the bill/receipt?)
Regional Variations
While the formal and informal terms mentioned above are widely understood and used throughout Korea, it’s essential to note that certain regional variations exist. Here are a few:
1. 카 (Ka)
In Busan and some other southern regions of Korea, you may hear the term 카 (ka), which is a local slang word used to refer to a bill. It’s advised to use this variation only when interacting with locals or if you are familiar with the region’s specific dialect.
2. 계산표 (Gyesanpyo)
In some parts of Gyeongsang Province, 계산표 (gyesanpyo) is a regional term used instead of 계산서 (gyesanseo). If you find yourself in these areas, using 계산표 (gyesanpyo) will help you blend in with the locals.
Conclusion
Now that you have learned various ways to say “bill” in Korean, both formally and informally, you are well-equipped to navigate financial transactions and conversations related to payments. Remember to consider the context and level of formality when choosing the appropriate term. Whether you are in Seoul, Busan, or anywhere else in Korea, communicating about bills will now be a breeze. Enjoy your experiences in Korea and may your financial interactions be smooth and pleasant!
