Learning how to say “come” in the Korean language is essential for effective communication with Korean speakers. In this guide, we will explore both formal and informal ways to express this action. While regional variations exist, we will focus on the standard Korean language. Read on to discover some valuable tips and useful examples to help you master this expression.
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Formal Ways to Say “Come” in Korean
When speaking formally or to individuals older than you or hold higher social status, you can use the following expressions to say “come”:
1. 와 주세요 (wa juseyo)
This is the most common and polite way to say “come” in Korean. It consists of the verb “오다 (oda)” meaning “to come” and the honorific verb ending “주세요 (juseyo)” which shows respect. This expression is commonly used in various situations, such as inviting someone to join you or asking them to come to a specific location.
Example:
If you want to invite your friend to your house, you would say: “우리 집에 와 주세요 (uri jibe wa juseyo)” which translates to “Please come to my house.”
Tip: When using honorific expressions, it’s important to use the subject honorific form of the verb “오다 (oda)”. For example, “와 주세요 (wa juseyo)” instead of “와요 (wayo)” in this case.
2. 오십시오 (osipsio)
Another formal way to say “come” in Korean is by using the honorific ending “-십시오 (-sipsio)” added to the verb “오다 (oda)”. This expression is often used in formal settings or when speaking to someone in a higher position than you, such as your boss or a respected elder.
Example:
If you need to ask your boss to come to the meeting room, you would say: “회의실로 오십시오 (hoeuisillo osipsio)” which translates to “Please come to the meeting room.”
Informal Ways to Say “Come” in Korean
Informal expressions to say “come” in Korean are used when speaking to friends, family members, or people younger than you. Let’s take a look at some informal expressions you can use:
1. 와 (wa)
The simplest way to say “come” informally in Korean is by using the verb “오다 (oda)” without any honorific endings. This expression is suitable for casual situations and can be used with friends or people of the same age.
Example:
If you want to invite your friend to go shopping, you would simply say: “쇼핑하러 와 (syopinghareo wa)” which means “Come (and) let’s go shopping.”
2. 와라 (wara)
In some informal contexts, you might come across the expression “와라 (wara)”. It is considered a stronger form of “와 (wa)” and is often used when you want to be a bit more forceful or authoritative in your request.
Example:
If you want to urge your friend to come quickly, you could say: “빨리 와라 (ppalli wara)” which means “Come quickly!”
Regional Variations
While the above expressions are commonly used throughout Korea, it’s important to note that regional variations exist. Different regions in Korea may have their own unique ways of saying “come”. However, the formal and informal expressions discussed in this guide should be widely understood and applicable across the country.
Keep in mind that Korean is a dynamic language, and expressions can evolve over time. It’s always a good idea to familiarize yourself with the local language and customs when visiting different regions in Korea to ensure effective communication.
Conclusion
Congratulations! You have now learned how to say “come” in Korean using both formal and informal expressions. By mastering these phrases, you can effectively communicate with Korean speakers in a polite and respectful manner. Remember to adjust your speech based on the formality of the situation and the relationship you share with the person you are speaking to.
Learning a few basic phrases, such as how to say “come,” can make a significant difference in your interactions with Korean speakers. Practice these expressions, and don’t hesitate to immerse yourself in the Korean language to further enhance your language skills. Happy learning!
