Welcome to this comprehensive guide on how to say “envy” in Korean! In this guide, we will explore various ways to express envy in both formal and informal contexts. While regional variations exist throughout South Korea, we will primarily focus on the standard Korean language.
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Say “Envy” in Korean
Formal language is typically used in professional or polite settings, so it’s essential to know how to express envy formally. Here are some common phrases:
Phrase 1: 부러움 (bureoum)
Translation: Envy
Phrase 2: 시기하다 (siki-hada)
Translation: To feel envious
These two phrases are commonly used in formal situations when you want to express envy in a respectful manner.
Examples:
1. 그의 재능에 부러움을 느꼈습니다. (Geu-ui jaenaeng-e bureoumeul neukkossseubnida)
Translation: I felt envy towards his talent.
2. 제가 그의 성공을 보고 시기하고 있습니다. (Jaega geu-ui seonggong-eul bogo sikihago itseubnida)
Translation: I am feeling envious as I see his success.
Informal Ways to Say “Envy” in Korean
Informal language is used among friends, family, and people of similar age or status. Here are some commonly used informal phrases:
Phrase 1: 부러워 (bureowo)
Translation: I envy
Phrase 2: 시기해 (sikihae)
Translation: I feel envious
These phrases are more casual and can be used in everyday conversations.
Examples:
1. 너무 부러워! 그 여자 정말 예쁘다. (Neomu bureowo! Geu yeoja jeongmal yeppeuda)
Translation: I’m so envious! That girl is really pretty.
2. 그러면 너도 시기하겠지. (Geureomyeon neodo sikihagetji)
Translation: You must feel envious too, then.
Regional Variations
While the standard Korean language remains consistent across South Korea, there may be slight variations in regional dialects. However, it is important to note that the phrases provided above are widely understood and used throughout the country.
Here are two additional phrases that are regionally specific:
Phrase 1: 질투 (jiltu)
Translation: Jealousy/Envy (used in some regional dialects)
Phrase 2: 새롭게 못 이기다 (saeropge mot igida)
Translation: To be unable to surpass (used in some regional dialects)
If you happen to encounter someone using these regional phrases, it’s a great opportunity to learn and appreciate the linguistic diversity of the Korean language.
Example:
1. 주변 친구들이 다 이렇게 말하길 질투가 많은 사람이라고 생각해. (Jubeon chingudeul-i da ireohge malhagil jiltuga manh-eun salam-irago saenggakhae)
Translation: I think people say that someone who is surrounded by a lot of friends is envious.
Summary
In this guide, we have covered various ways to say “envy” in Korean, including both formal and informal expressions. Remember to adjust your language based on the formality of the situation and your relationship with the person you are speaking to. South Korea’s standard Korean language is widely understood across the country, but there may be regional variations to explore. Practice these phrases to confidently express envy in Korean, and enjoy your journey in learning this beautiful language!
Keep up the excellent work, and happy language learning!
