Learning to count in different languages can be fun and useful, especially when you want to connect with people from different cultures. In this guide, we will explore how to say “eighteen” in Korean, both formally and informally. We will also touch upon regional variations, although they are not as significant in this particular case. Let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
Formal Way to Say Eighteen in Korean
In formal situations, such as when speaking to someone older or in a professional setting, Koreans tend to use the native Korean numbering system. The word for “eighteen” in Korean is “열여덟 (yeolyeodeol).” Let’s break down this word to understand its components:
“열 (yeol)” – This means “ten.”
“여덟 (yeodeol)” – This means “eight.”
As you can see, “yeol” represents the number ten, and it is followed by “yeodeol,” which represents the number eight. When combined, they form “yeolyeodeol,” meaning “eighteen.”
If you want to emphasize the formality and politeness further, you can add the honorific suffix “-님 (-nim)” when addressing someone. For example, “열여덟분 (yeolyeodeol-bun)” would mean “eighteen (formal) people” or “eighteen (formal) individuals.” This is a great way to display respect in Korean culture.
Informal Way to Say Eighteen in Korean
When speaking in an informal setting or with friends, Koreans commonly switch to the Sino-Korean numbering system, which uses Chinese-derived characters. To say “eighteen” in Korean informally, you would use the word “십팔 (shipal).” Let’s analyze this word:
“십 (ship)” – This represents the number ten.
“팔 (pal)” – This represents the number eight.
Similar to the formal way, “ship” represents ten, and “pal” represents eight. When combined, they form “shipal,” which means “eighteen” in Korean when spoken informally.
Remember, when using the informal way, it’s essential to consider the context and relationship with the person you are speaking with. Using informal language with someone you should address formally may be considered disrespectful or rude.
Examples and Tips
Now that you know the formal and informal ways to say “eighteen” in Korean, let’s look at some examples and practical tips:
Formal:
- Example 1: “저는 지난 주에 열여덟살이 되었어요.” (I turned eighteen last week.)
- Example 2: “학교에 열여덟 명의 학생이 있습니다.” (There are eighteen students in the school.)
Notice how we used the formal term “열여덟 (yeolyeodeol)” in both examples. You can always replace the nouns or modify the sentences according to your needs.
Informal:
- Example 1: “내 친구는 열여덟이야.” (My friend is eighteen.)
- Example 2: “크리스마스 파티에 열여덟 명이 참석할 거야.” (Eighteen people will attend the Christmas party.)
In the informal examples, we used “십팔 (shipal)” to indicate the number eighteen. Feel free to personalize the sentences to fit your own situations.
Regional Variations
While the formal and informal ways mentioned above are commonly used throughout Korea, it’s important to note that there might be some regional variations in how people say “eighteen” in Korean. However, these variations are not significant and mainly involve dialects and local accents.
The majority of Koreans, regardless of their regional background, will easily understand and recognize both “열여덟 (yeolyeodeol)” and “십팔 (shipal)” as the ways to say “eighteen” in Korean.
Conclusion
Congratulations! Now you know how to say “eighteen” in Korean both formally and informally. Remember to use “열여덟 (yeolyeodeol)” in formal situations and “십팔 (shipal)” in informal settings. Pay attention to your audience to ensure you are using the appropriate language level based on the context and relationship.
Keep practicing and exploring the Korean language! Counting is just the beginning of a fascinating journey into the rich culture and language of Korea.
