Welcome to our comprehensive guide on how to say “excuse” in Korean. Whether you’re planning a trip to South Korea or simply interested in the Korean language, this guide will provide you with both formal and informal expressions for “excuse” along with some useful tips and examples. Let’s get started!
Table of Contents
1. Formal Expressions:
In formal situations, it is important to use polite language to show respect. Here are some formal ways to say “excuse” in Korean:
실례합니다. (Sil-rye-ham-ni-da)
Excuse me. (when interrupting or getting someone’s attention)
This phrase is commonly used to politely get someone’s attention or interrupt a conversation. It is usually used in formal settings or when speaking to someone in a higher position or older age.
죄송합니다. (Jweh-song-ham-ni-da)
I’m sorry. (when apologizing)
If you accidentally bump into someone or need to apologize for something, using the word “죄송합니다” shows sincerity and is considered formal and polite.
2. Informal Expressions:
In casual or informal situations, you can use less formal expressions. Here are some examples:
미안해요. (Mian-hae-yo)
Sorry. (informal)
This expression is commonly used in daily conversations between friends or people of the same age. It is a casual way to say “excuse me” or “I’m sorry” in Korean.
실례할게요. (Sil-rye-hal-ge-yo)
Excuse me. (informal)
A slightly less formal but still polite expression, “실례할게요” can be used in informal situations where you need to get someone’s attention or interrupt a conversation.
3. Useful Tips:
Here are some additional tips to help you use these expressions correctly:
3.1 Using Appropriate Honorifics:
In Korean culture, the use of appropriate honorifics is crucial when speaking to someone older or in a higher position. When addressing someone using “실례합니다,” it is important to add the appropriate level of honorific based on the person’s age or position.
For example, if you want to get the attention of an older person, you can say “제가 실례할게요” (Je-ga Sil-rye-hal-ge-yo), which adds the honorific word “제가” (Je-ga) before the phrase. This shows respect and politeness.
3.2 Non-Verbal Cues:
In addition to using the correct expressions, non-verbal cues are also essential when conveying politeness and respect. It is considered polite to make eye contact, lower your head slightly, and use a friendly tone when saying “excuse me” or “I’m sorry” in Korean.
Remember to always have a friendly and approachable demeanor, as it greatly contributes to effective communication in any language.
4. Examples:
Let’s take a look at some examples of using these expressions:
- Formal:
- Excuse me, may I ask you a question? – 실례합니다, 질문 좀 해도 될까요? (Sil-rye-ham-ni-da, Jil-moon jom he-do dwel-kka-yo?)
- I’m sorry, I can’t attend the meeting. – 죄송합니다, 회의에 참석할 수 없어요. (Jweh-song-ham-ni-da, Hweh-ee-eh cham-seok-hal su up-suh-yo.)
- Informal:
- Sorry, can I sit here? – 미안해요, 여기 앉아도 될까요? (Mian-hae-yo, Yeo-gi an-ja-do dwel-kka-yo?)
- Excuse me, can I borrow your pen? – 실례할게요, 펜 좀 빌려도 될까요? (Sil-rye-hal-ge-yo, Pen jom billyeo-do dwel-kka-yo?)
Conclusion:
In conclusion, knowing how to say “excuse” in Korean can help you navigate various situations with politeness and respect. Whether you use formal expressions like “실례합니다” and “죄송합니다” or informal expressions like “미안해요” and “실례할게요,” remember to consider factors such as the formality of the setting and the age or position of the person you are speaking to.
By using appropriate honorifics and non-verbal cues, you will make a positive impression and enhance your communication in Korean-speaking environments. Practice these expressions, and you’ll find yourself confidently using them in no time!
