When navigating conversations in a foreign language like Korean, it’s common to encounter moments where you may need someone to repeat what they said. Knowing how to ask “Can you repeat that?” in Korean is an essential phrase that can help you better understand and communicate with native speakers. In this guide, we’ll explore formal and informal ways to ask for repetition, provide regional variations if necessary, and offer useful tips and examples that will assist you in your Korean language journey.
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Ask “Can You Repeat That?” in Korean
1. 그 말씀을 다시 한 번 말해주시겠어요? (Geu malsseumeul dasi han beon malhaejusigesseoyo?) – This is a polite and formal way to ask someone to repeat what they just said. It is appropriate for formal situations, when speaking to older individuals, or in professional settings.
2. 잠시만요, 다시 말해 주실 수 있을까요? (Jamsimanyo, dasi malhae jusil su isseulgakkayo?) – This phrase politely requests the speaker to repeat their statement. It is suitable for formal occasions and situations where you want to show respect to the person you are conversing with.
Informal Ways to Ask “Can You Repeat That?” in Korean
1. 뭐라고? (Mworago?) – This is a casual and commonly used way to ask someone to repeat what they said. It is appropriate in informal conversations, among friends, or with people of similar age or status.
2. 뭐라고 했어? (Mworago haesseo?) – This informal phrase is similar to the previous one and can be used in casual settings or with familiar acquaintances.
Useful Tips:
Tip 1: Active Listening – When you ask someone to repeat something in Korean, make sure you actively listen to their response. This will demonstrate your interest and engagement in the conversation.
Tip 2: Politeness Matters – Remember to adjust your language according to the formality of the situation. Using the appropriate level of politeness will show respect and help you create positive interactions with native Korean speakers.
Tip 3: Mimic Pronunciation – While asking for repetition, pay attention to the pronunciation of individual words and try to mimic them. This can help you improve your Korean accent and make it easier for others to understand you.
Examples:
Here are a few examples that illustrate how to ask someone to repeat themselves in Korean:
1. Informal Conversation:
Person A: 그 영화 어때? (Geu yeonghwa eottae?) – How was that movie?
Person B: 뭐라고요? (Mworagoyo?) – Can you repeat that?
2. Formal Interview:
Interviewer: 지원 동기는 무엇인가요? (Jiwon dongineun mueosingayo?) – What is your motivation for applying?
Candidate: 죄송하지만 다시 한 번 말씀해주시겠어요? (Joesonghajiman dasi han beon malsseumhaejusigesseoyo?) – Sorry, could you please repeat that one more time?
Remember, practice makes perfect. The more you use these phrases in conversations, the more comfortable you will become with asking for repetition in Korean. Keep exploring the language, embracing opportunities to communicate with native speakers, and your skills will continue to develop and flourish!
