How to Say Cry in Korean: Formal and Informal Ways

Welcome to your guide on how to say “cry” in Korean. Whether you’re a language enthusiast, planning a trip to Korea, or simply interested in expanding your vocabulary, learning how to express emotions in different languages is always helpful. In this guide, we’ll cover both formal and informal ways to say “cry” in Korean, providing you with useful tips, examples, and even some regional variations if necessary. So, let’s get started!

Formal Ways to Say Cry in Korean

In formal settings or when talking to someone older or of higher social position, it’s important to use polite and respectful language. Here are a few ways to say “cry” formally in Korean:

1. 울다 (ulda): This is the most common verb for “to cry” in Korean. It is applicable in various situations, such as crying due to sadness, pain, or any other strong emotions. For instance:
   

   그 남자는 슬픔에 울었다. (Geu namjaneun seulpeume ul-eossda.) That man cried out of sadness.

2. 눈물을 흘리다 (nunmul-eul heullida): This phrase literally translates to “to shed tears” and is frequently used in formal contexts. It focuses on the physical act of crying and can denote both sadness or joy. For example:
   

   그녀는 감동으로 눈물을 흘렸다. (Geunyeoneun gamdong-eulo nunmul-eul heullyeossda.) She shed tears from being moved.

3. 서러워하다 (seoleowa-hada): While this phrase does not directly translate to “cry,” it is commonly used in formal language to express mourning, grief, or sorrow. It can be used when discussing someone’s emotional state. For instance:
   

   그들은 사고 후에 서러워했다. (Geu-deureun sago huae seoleowa-haessda.) They mourned after the accident.

Informal Ways to Say Cry in Korean

When speaking with friends, family, or in casual situations, you can use more informal language. Here are three common ways to say “cry” informally:

1. 울어 (ul-eo): This is the informal imperative form of the verb “울다 (ulda).” It is used when giving direct commands or expressing your own emotions. For example:
   

   너 왜 울어? (Neo wae ul-eo?) Why are you crying?

2. 펑펑 울다 (peongpeong ulda): This phrase is a colloquial way of describing someone crying loudly, as if sobbing uncontrollably. It can be used playfully or to emphasize the intensity of someone’s crying. For instance:
   

   그는 펑펑 울며 이야기했다. (Geu-neun peongpeong ulmyeo iyagihyeossda.) He spoke while sobbing uncontrollably.

3. 반향하다 (banhyanghada): Although it doesn’t directly translate to “cry,” this phrase is commonly used in informal language to describe someone’s emotional breakdown or outburst. It denotes a visible display of strong emotions. For example:
   

   그녀는 화가 나서 반향했다. (Geunyeoneun hwaga naseo banhyanghaessda.) She had an emotional outburst because she got angry.

Regional Variations in Saying Cry

While the formal and informal phrases mentioned above are widely understood throughout Korea, it’s fascinating to note some regional variations. These variations showcase the richness and diversity of the Korean language. Here are a few examples:

• 울기 (ulgii): This variation is frequently used in Gyeongsang Province, located in the southeastern part of South Korea.
• 눈물을 흘려요 (nunmul-eul heullyeoyo): This phrase, meaning “to shed tears,” is favored by those residing in Jeolla Province, located in the southwestern part of South Korea.
• 헛발질하다 (heosbaljilhada): In some regions, particularly in Gyeonggi Province near Seoul, this phrase is used to describe crying. It literally means “to fake a cry.”

These regional variations, while interesting, are not essential to everyday conversations in Korean. You can confidently stick to the formal and informal phrases mentioned earlier to effectively communicate how to say “cry” in Korean.

Remember, using appropriate expressions for emotions allows you to connect with native Korean speakers more effectively and demonstrate your understanding of their culture. Practice and embrace these phrases, and you’ll be on your way to expressing yourself authentically in the Korean language!

Happy learning, and remember to keep practicing!