Learning how to say “by the way” in Korean is important for effective communication and to sound more natural when conversing with native Korean speakers. In this guide, we will explore both formal and informal ways to express this phrase in Korean, providing you with tips, examples, and regional variations when necessary.
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Formal Ways to Say “By the Way” in Korean
When speaking in a formal setting or with someone older or of higher status, it is important to use respectful language. Here are some formal expressions for “by the way” in Korean:
- 그런데 (geureonde): This is the most common formal phrase used to mean “by the way” in Korean. It can be used in both written and spoken contexts.
Example: 그런데, 제가 질문이 있습니다. (By the way, I have a question.)
- 물론입니다만 (mullonimnida-man): This phrase translates to “although it is of course.” It expresses a sense of modesty while introducing a slightly unrelated topic.
Example: 물론입니다만, 그 사건과는 관련이 없는데요. (Although it is of course unrelated to that incident, …)
- 이외에도 (iwoedo): This phrase means “in addition” or “aside from that.” It can be used to introduce a topic that is unrelated to the main conversation.
Example: 이외에도, 제가 다른 제안을 하나 드릴게요. (Additionally, I have another suggestion to make.)
Informal Ways to Say “By the Way” in Korean
When talking with friends, peers, or people of the same age or younger, you can use informal language. Here are some examples of informal expressions for “by the way” in Korean:
- 그런데 (geureonde): This phrase is used in both formal and informal situations, making it versatile and suitable for all occasions.
Example: 그런데, 내일 뭐 할 거예요? (By the way, what are you going to do tomorrow?)
- 아무튼 (amuteun): This expression is often used among friends and has a casual tone. It can be translated as “anyway” or “at any rate” and is commonly used as a transition to a different topic.
Example: 아무튼, 뭐 먹을까요? (By the way, what should we eat?)
- 참고로 (chamgoro): This phrase is used to provide additional information or as a way of adding a comment on the existing topic. It is commonly used in casual conversations.
Example: 참고로, 그 영화 어땠어? (By the way, how was that movie?)
Regional Variations
Korean has regional variations in terms of dialects and intonations. However, for the phrase “by the way,” the expressions mentioned earlier are widely understood and accepted throughout different regions in Korea. Regardless of where you are, you can confidently use these phrases in both formal and informal situations.
It is important to note that when speaking in a regional dialect or to someone from a specific region, it is always good to learn and use local expressions, as they can help you blend in and build a better connection with the locals. However, for the purposes of this guide, we have focused on commonly used phrases that are applicable in various contexts.
In Conclusion
Learning how to say “by the way” in Korean is a valuable skill to enhance your communication skills and sound more natural in conversations. By using the appropriate formal or informal expressions provided in this guide, you can confidently navigate different social situations and engage in meaningful discussions with Korean speakers.
Remember, practice makes perfect! The more you incorporate these phrases into your Korean speaking or writing, the more natural and fluent you will become. So go ahead and start using these expressions “by the way” in your daily conversations to impress your Korean friends, colleagues, or language exchange partners!
