Korean is a rich and diverse language, and learning how to say “expensive” is essential when it comes to understanding daily conversations or shopping experiences in Korea. In this guide, we’ll cover the formal and informal ways to express “expensive” in Korean, along with some tips, examples, and regional variations. So let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Say “Expensive”
If you are in a formal setting or speaking to someone older or in a higher position, you can use the following phrases:
- 비싸요 (bissayo): This is the standard way to say “expensive” in Korean. It can be used in various situations and is widely understood.
- 비교적 비싸다 (bigyorok bissada): This phrase translates to “relatively expensive.” It can be used when comparing prices or expressing that something is relatively costly.
- 값이 비싸다 (gabi bissada): This phrase means “to be expensive in value.” It emphasizes the worth or value of the item or service being discussed.
Informal Ways to Say “Expensive”
When speaking casually with friends, family, or peers, you can use these informal expressions:
- 비싸 (bissa): This is the casual form of “expensive” in Korean. It is commonly used in everyday conversations among friends.
- 너무 비싸 (neomu bissa): This phrase translates to “too expensive” and is used to express that something is excessively costly.
Tips for Using “Expensive” in Korean
Here are some tips to enhance your understanding and usage of vocabulary related to “expensive” in Korean:
- Context Matters: Like in any language, the context is crucial. Consider the situation and adjust your choice of words accordingly.
- Politeness: Korean culture values politeness, so be mindful of the formality level when using expressions related to “expensive.”
- Price Comparison: To express that something is more expensive or cheaper than another item, use the following phrases:
- 비싼 게 더 많아요 (bissan ge deo manayo) – “The expensive one is more.”
- 비싼 게 적어요 (bissan ge jeogeoyo) – “The expensive one is less.”
- Adding Intensifiers: To emphasize that something is very expensive, you can add intensifiers like “정말” (jeongmal) meaning “very” or “진짜” (jinjja) meaning “really” before the word “비싸” (bissa).
Examples of “Expensive” in Korean
Let’s now explore some examples of how to use the word “expensive” in Korean:
옷이 비싸요. (Ossi bissayo.) – The clothes are expensive.
이 레스토랑은 비교적 비싸다. (I reseutorang-eun bigyorok bissada.) – This restaurant is relatively expensive.
그 컴퓨터의 값이 비싸다. (Geu keompyuteo-ui gabi bissada.) – The value of that computer is expensive.
이거 너무 비싸! (Igeo neomu bissa!) – This is too expensive!
Regional Variations
While the phrases mentioned earlier are widely understood across Korea, it’s worth noting that there might be some regional variations when it comes to dialiects and expressions related to “expensive.” However, these differences are minimal and won’t hinder your ability to communicate effectively.
That wraps up our guide on how to say “expensive” in Korean! Remember to consider the formality level and context while using these phrases, and feel free to incorporate them into your Korean conversations. Happy learning!
