Learning how to express the word “decide” in Korean is essential for effective communication. In this guide, you will learn both formal and informal ways to say “decide” in Korean, as well as some valuable tips, examples, and regional variations when necessary.
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Say “Decide” in Korean
1. 결정하다 (gyeoljeonghada): This is the most common formal way to say “decide” in Korean. It is widely used in official and professional settings, such as business meetings, presentations, or formal conversations.
Example: 사장님, 저희는 내일 회의 시간을 결정하고 싶습니다. (sajangnim, jeohui-neun naeil hoeui siganeul gyeoljeonghago sipseumnida.) “Sir, we would like to decide the meeting time for tomorrow.”
2. 결심하다 (gyeolsimhada): This word is used to express a firm determination or resolution when making a decision. It is often used in personal or emotional contexts.
Example: 저는 다이어트를 시작하기로 결심했어요. (jeoneun daieoteureul sijakhagi-ro gyeolsimhaesseoyo.) “I have decided to start a diet.”
Informal Ways to Say “Decide” in Korean
1. 정하다 (jeonghada): This is the most commonly used informal way to say “decide” in Korean. It is used in casual conversations with friends, family, or close acquaintances.
Example: 오늘 점심은 어디로 갈지 정했어? (oneul jeomsimeun eodiro galji jeonghaesseo?) “Have you decided where to go for lunch today?”
2. 정해지다 (jeonghaejida): This informal word implies that a decision has been made by someone else or a situation. It is often used to convey that things are settled.
Example: 야구 경기 일정이 드디어 정해졌어! (yagu gyeonggi iljeongi deudieo jeonghaejyeosseo!) “The baseball game schedule is finally decided!”
Valuable Tips and Regional Variations
– When speaking to someone older or in a higher position, it is often more appropriate to use formal language.
– In South Korea, the formal way of saying “decide” is more commonly used. Informal language is generally reserved for close relationships or casual situations.
– In North Korea, the word “determined” can also be used instead of “decide”. However, due to the limited information available, it is not widely covered in this guide.
Summary
Mastering how to say “decide” in Korean contributes significantly to your language skills. Remember to use “결정하다 (gyeoljeonghada)” for formal situations, “결심하다 (gyeolsimhada)” for personal contexts, “정하다 (jeonghada)” for informal conversations, and “정해지다 (jeonghaejida)” when referring to a decision made by someone else or a situation. Practice using these words in various contexts to enhance your fluency and understanding of Korean communication.
