Welcome to our guide on how to say “broken” in Korean! Whether you want to describe a broken object, a broken relationship, or anything else that falls under the concept of “broken,” we’ve got you covered. In this guide, we will explore both formal and informal ways to express this keyword, providing useful tips and examples along the way.
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Say Broken in Korean:
In formal settings, it’s important to use polite language. When referring to something as “broken” in a formal context, use the word “고장난” (gojangnan). Here’s an example of how to use it:
Example:
이 컴퓨터는 고장난 상태입니다. (i keompuyuteoneun gojangnan sangtaeimnida)
Translation: This computer is in a broken state.
Remember to adjust your speech level according to the formality of the situation. If you’re speaking to someone older or in a higher position, it’s best to use honorifics. In such cases, replace “입니다” (imnida) with “입니다요” (imnidayo) at the end of your sentence to show respect.
Informal Ways to Say Broken in Korean:
In informal settings, such as when talking with friends or family, you can use the word “망가진” (manggajin) to describe something as broken. Here’s an example:
Example:
이 텔레비전은 망가졌어. (i tellebijeoneun manggajyeosseo)
Translation: This television is broken.
Notice that the verb “to be” is conjugated to “망가졌어” (manggajyeosseo) instead of the formal “고장났어요” (gojangnasseoyo). This reflects the informal tone that is suitable for casual conversations.
Tips and Regional Variations:
While the above expressions are widely used throughout Korea, it’s essential to note that regional variations exist. For instance, in some regions, you may hear locals use the word “부서진” (buseojin) to mean “broken” instead. However, these variations should not cause any confusion as they still convey the same meaning.
Here are some additional tips to keep in mind:
- Context Matters: Consider the context in which you’re using the word “broken.” The exact phrasing may differ depending on the situation. For example, if you want to say “a broken heart,” the phrase “깨진 마음” (kkaejin maeum) would be more appropriate.
- Vocabulary Expansion: Take your Korean language skills a step further by learning related words and phrases. This will allow you to express nuances and enhance your vocabulary. For example, you can learn words like “damage” (손상, sonsang) and “malfunction” (고장, gojang) to describe different types of “broken.”
- Practice Makes Perfect: Like any new language, learning Korean requires practice. Expand your communication skills by using these expressions in everyday conversations. The more you practice, the more natural and comfortable you will become.
Conclusion
Now you know how to say “broken” in Korean! Whether you need to describe a broken object or convey the concept of being broken in any other context, you can confidently use the expressions provided in this guide. Remember to tailor your speech level based on the formality of the situation and feel free to explore regional variations if necessary. Keep practicing and expanding your vocabulary to become even more proficient in Korean. Best of luck on your language learning journey!
