When engaging in conversations or online chats, it’s common to use abbreviations and acronyms to convey information more efficiently. One such abbreviation you might frequently encounter is “BTW,” which stands for “by the way.” If you’re learning Korean or simply curious about Korean internet slang, this guide will assist you in understanding how to express “BTW” in both informal and formal contexts in the Korean language. Additionally, we’ll explore a few regional variations if they exist. Let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
Informal Ways to Say “BTW” in Korean
In informal conversations or casual texting, there are a few phrases and expressions you can use to convey the meaning of “BTW” in Korean. These informal expressions include:
1. 그래서 (geuraeseo)
“그래서” is an informal expression that translates to “so” or “so, by the way” in English. It is commonly used to transition into an additional topic or add some extra information. Let’s see an example sentence:
그래서, 내일 여행에 가기로 했어. (Geuraeseo, naeil yeohaeng-e gagi-ro haesseo.)
“So, by the way, I decided to go on a trip tomorrow.”
2. 아, 그리고 (a, geurigo)
Another informal way to express “BTW” in Korean is to use “아, 그리고” which means “Oh, and” in English. It is commonly used when adding extra information or items to a conversation. Here’s an example:
친구들 아직 여기 아니야? 아, 그리고 나 오늘 생일이야. (Chingudeul ajik yeogi aniya? A, geurigo na oneul saengil-iya.)
“Are my friends not here yet? Oh, and by the way, it’s my birthday today.”
Formal Ways to Say “BTW” in Korean
In more formal situations or when conversing with people older or in higher positions, it’s important to use more polite language. Here are a couple of options for expressing “BTW” formally in Korean:
1. 그런데 (geureon-de)
“그런데” is a polite expression that translates to “by the way” or “however” in English. It is used when introducing a related or additional topic in a courteous manner. Consider the following example:
월요일에 회의가 있을 예정입니다. 그런데, 다음 주 수요일로 변경되었습니다. (Woryoil-e hoe-uiga iss-eul yejeong-imnida. Geureon-de, da-eum ju suyoil-ro byeong-gyeo-dwaesseumnida.)
“There is a meeting scheduled for Monday. By the way, it has been rescheduled for next Wednesday.”
2. 그에 따라서 (geu-e ttaraseo)
Another formal way to indicate “BTW” in Korean is to use the phrase “그에 따라서,” which translates to “accordingly” or “as a result” in English. It is typically used to add supplemental information politely. Here’s an example sentence:
계획이 변경되었습니다. 그에 따라서, 일정을 조절해야 합니다. (Gyehoeg-i byeong-gyeo-dwaesseumnida. Geu-e ttaraseo, iljeong-eul jojeolhaeya hamnida.)
“The plans have changed. Accordingly, we need to adjust the schedule.”
Regional Variations
Across different regions in Korea, some local dialects may have variations in how they express “BTW” informally. However, the phrases mentioned previously are widely understood and applicable throughout the Korean language. Therefore, learning and utilizing these expressions will suffice in most situations.
Summary
In summary, when you want to say “BTW” in Korean, your choice of expression depends on the level of formality required in the conversation. In informal contexts, you can use phrases like “그래서 (geuraeseo)” or “아, 그리고 (a, geurigo).” On the other hand, in formal situations, “그런데 (geureon-de)” or “그에 따라서 (geu-e ttaraseo)” should be employed. Remember to consider your relationship with the person you are speaking to when deciding which expression to use.
Understanding these phrases will undoubtedly enhance your conversational skills and help you navigate various social situations in Korean-speaking environments. So the next time you want to say “BTW” in Korean, remember these expressions and impress your Korean friends or colleagues with your language proficiency!
