Learning how to ask someone if you can pose a question is an essential skill in any language, including Korean. Whether you’re engaging in a formal or informal conversation, knowing the appropriate phrases will help you communicate effectively with native Korean speakers. In this guide, we’ll explore various ways to express “Can I ask you a question?” in Korean, including both formal and informal expressions. While regional variations exist, we’ll focus on the commonly used phrases to ensure you can confidently engage with Korean speakers.
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Say “Can I Ask You a Question?”
When speaking formally or addressing someone older, respected, or in a higher position, it’s important to use polite language in Korean. Here are several ways to express “Can I ask you a question?” formally:
- 저에게 질문 하도록 허락해 주세요. (Jeoege jilmun hadorok heorakhae juseyo.)
Translation: Please allow me to ask you a question. - 질문을 드려도 될까요? (Jilmuneul deuryeodo doelkkayo?)
Translation: May I ask you a question? - 질문을 하도록 허락해 주실 수 있을까요? (Jilmuneul hadorok heorakhae jusil su isseulkkayo?)
Translation: Could you permit me to ask a question? - 조금만 질문해도 되겠습니까? (Jogeumman jilmunhaedo doegesseumnikka?)
Translation: Could I ask you a few questions?
Informal Ways to Say “Can I Ask You a Question?”
Informal language is used when conversing with friends, peers, or those of a similar age group. Below are some informal expressions for asking “Can I ask you a question?” in Korean:
- 질문 좀 해도 돼? (Jilmun jom haedo dwae?)
Translation: Can I ask you a question? - 한 가지 물어봐도 될까? (Han gaji mureobwado doelkkayo?)
Translation: Is it okay if I ask you something? - 질문 좀 해도 되지? (Jilmun jom haedo doejii?)
Translation: Can I ask you something? - 조언 좀 구해도 돼? (Joheon jom guhaedo dwae?)
Translation: Can I seek your advice?
Additional Tips and Examples
Here are some additional tips and examples to help you confidently apply these phrases when asking questions in Korean:
Tips:
- In Korean culture, it is common to show respect by using honorific language with elders, superiors, or people older than you.
- Pay attention to the context and relationship you have with the person you are addressing when deciding which form to use.
- Polite language is always a safer choice when you’re not sure about the appropriate level of formality.
- Practice your pronunciation to ensure you convey your message clearly and respectfully.
Examples:
- Formal: “저에게 선생님께 질문드리겠습니다.” (Jeoege seonsaengnimkke jilmundeurigesseumnida.)
Translation: “May I ask the teacher a question?” - Informal: “친구에게 도와달라고 부탁해도 돼?” (Chingu-ege dowadalago butakhaedo dwae?)
Translation: “Can I ask my friend for help?” - Formal: “사장님, 한 가지 궁금한 점이 있는데요.” (Sajangnim, han gaji gunggeumhan jeomi issneundeyo.)
Translation: “Boss, I have one curious question.” - Informal: “오빠, 좀 도와줄래?” (Oppa, jom dowajullae?)
Translation: “Brother, can you help me a bit?”
Remember, practice makes perfect! The more you use these phrases, the easier it will become to ask questions politely and effectively in Korean. Have fun expanding your Korean language skills through engaging conversations!
