전
jeon[t͡ɕʌ̹n]
In Korean, the English phrase "ex" is translated using the prefix 전 (jeon).
The term 전 functions as a prefix meaning "former" or "ex-". It is used to describe someone who previously held a certain status, position or relationship.
How does it change in a sentence?
The prefix 전 is placed directly before a noun to indicate that the person previously held that status or position.
How do you pronounce it?
jeon
Did you know?
- While 전 means 'former' in a relationship context, it can also mean 'fried' if written with the Hanja 煎, leading to potential confusion in written scripts without context.
- When referring to an ex-partner in a venting or emotional way, Koreans may skip 전 and use the term 구남친 (ex-boyfriend) or 구여친 (ex-girlfriend), where 구 means 'old'.
- Because 전 is a Sino-Korean word, it shares the same root as the Japanese prefix 前 (zen) used to indicate a former status.
Examples in context
- 사미는 전 여자친구에게 한 번도 전화하지 않았다.Sami never called his ex-girlfriend.This sentence shows how to use 전 when referring to an ex-girlfriend.Tatoeba #13755275 by qlTmalffk, translation #7286878 by OsoHombre
- 전 대통령Ex-presidentThis phrase demonstrates the use of 전 with a professional title to mean ex-president.
- 저의 전 남자친구는 매우 착하고 멋진 사람이었습니다.My ex-boyfriend was a very kind and wonderful person.
- 저는 제 전 여자친구에 대해 이야기하고 싶지 않아요.I don't want to talk about my ex-girlfriend.
- 전 남친이랑은 연락 안 해요.jeon namchin-irang-eun yeollak an haeyo.I don't contact my ex-boyfriend.
Example conversation
Two friends are talking about past relationships at a cafe.
- 서연 Seo-yeon지훈 씨는 전 여자친구랑 잘 지내요?Ji-hun ssi-neun jeon yeojachingu-rang jal jinaeyo?Ji-hoon, are you doing well with your ex-girlfriend?
- 지훈 Ji-hun아니요, 전 여자친구와는 이미 끝났어요.Aniyo, jeon yeojachingu-wa-neun imi kkeut-nasseoyo.No, things with my ex-girlfriend are already over.
- 서연 Seo-yeon그렇군요. 마음 잘 추스르길 바랄게요.Geureokun-yo. Ma-eum jal chusureugil baralgeyo.I see. I hope you recover well.
- 지훈 Ji-hun고마워요, 서연 씨.Gomawoyo, Seo-yeon ssi.Thank you, Seo-yeon.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry 전, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries 전, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR, Wiktionary CC BY-SA 4.0.
