조의
joui[t͡ɕo̞ɰi]
The Korean word for condolences is 조의 (joui).
조의 is a noun used to express sympathy or funeral expressions. In formal settings, it is most commonly used with the verb 표하다 (to express) to form the phrase 조의를 표하다, meaning 'to express condolences'.
Meaning: funeral expression (intj)
Which one should you use?
In contrast, more colloquial spoken expressions tend to focus on the person's loss rather than using this specific noun.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
조의 is a formal term. When you wish to express condolences to a grieving family in a standard, highly formal way, you may use the full sentence 삼가 고인의 명복을 빕니다, which translates to 'I sincerely pray for the repose of the deceased'. Another formal option is 고인의 명복을 빕니다, meaning 'My condolences for your loss'.
How do you pronounce it?
joui
Did you know?
- In many Korean funerals, rather than just saying a word, it is customary to offer a monetary gift in a white envelope to the family rather than bringing flowers.
- When expressing 조의 in person, Koreans often avoid making direct eye contact with the grieving family and instead bow deeply as a sign of respect.
- The phrase 삼가 고인의 명복을 빕니다 contains the word 명복, which refers to the happiness or luck of the soul in the afterlife according to Buddhist beliefs.
Examples in context
- 조의를 표합니다.jo-ui-reul pyo-ham-ni-da.I offer my condolences.
- 깊은 조의를 표합니다.gi-peun jo-ui-reul pyo-ham-ni-da.I offer my deepest condolences.
- 조의의 뜻을 전합니다.jo-ui-ui tteut-eul jeon-ham-ni-da.I convey my condolences.
Example conversation
Dohyun and Jieun are speaking formally at a funeral.
- 도현 Do-hyeon진심으로 조의를 표합니다.jin-sim-eu-ro jo-ui-reul pyo-ham-ni-da.I offer my sincere condolences.
- 지은 Ji-eun위로해 주셔서 감사합니다.wi-ro-hae ju-syeo-seo gam-sa-ham-ni-da.Thank you for your comfort.
- 도현 Do-hyeon힘내시길 바랍니다.him-nae-si-gil ba-ram-ni-da.I hope you stay strong.
- 지은 Ji-eun네, 도현 씨. 고맙습니다.ne, Do-hyeon ssi. go-map-seum-ni-da.Yes, Dohyun. Thank you.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry 조의, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
