How to Say “Get” in Korean: Formal and Informal Ways

Learning how to say “get” in Korean is essential for effective communication. The word “get” can have various meanings and usages in English, so it’s important to explore multiple translations and expressions in Korean to accurately convey your intended message. In this guide, we will cover both formal and informal ways of saying “get” in Korean, along with helpful tips, examples, and regional variations when necessary.

1. Formal Ways to Say “Get” in Korean

When speaking formally or in professional settings, you should use polite expressions. Here are some common ways to say “get” in Korean formally:

• 받다 (batda): This verb is straightforward and commonly used in formal contexts. It generally means “to receive” or “to get” in the sense of obtaining something from someone else. For example: 선물을 받다 (seonmul-eul batda) – to receive a gift.
• 얻다 (eotda): This verb is slightly more formal and often used when obtaining something takes effort or intention. It can be translated as “to acquire” or “to gain.” For example: 지식을 얻다 (jisikeul eotda) – to acquire knowledge.
• 구하다 (guhada): This verb is used when you want to convey the meaning of “to get” by seeking or searching. It can also mean “to obtain” or “to find.” For example: 도움을 구하다 (doum-eul guhada) – to seek help.

2. Informal Ways to Say “Get” in Korean

When speaking to close friends, family, or in informal settings, you can use more casual expressions. Here are some popular ways to say “get” in Korean informally:

• 받다 (batda): Similar to the formal usage, this verb can be used in informal situations as well. For example: 책을 받자 (chaek-eul batja) – let’s get a book.
• 얻다 (eotda): This verb can also be used in informal contexts. For example: 경험을 얻었어 (gyeongheom-eul eoseo) – I got some experience.
• 가지다 (gajida): This verb is used to express “to have” or “to possess.” It can convey the meaning of “getting” something and then owning or having it. For example: 돈을 가지다 (don-eul gajida) – to have money.

3. Tips and Examples

Here are some additional tips and examples to help you understand and use the different ways of saying “get” in Korean:

Using “받다” (batda)

Tip: “받다” is commonly used to express receiving or obtaining something from someone else.

Example: 선물을 받았어요 (seonmul-eul bad-ass-eoyo) – I received a gift.

Using “얻다” (eotda)

Tip: “얻다” implies intentionally acquiring or gaining something.

Example: 지식을 얻으면 좋겠어요 (jisikeul eodeumyeon johgess-eoyo) – It would be nice to gain knowledge.

Using “구하다” (guhada)

Tip: “구하다” is used when you actively seek or search for something.

Example: 도움을 구할 수 있는 곳을 찾아보세요 (doum-eul guhal su issneun got-eul chajaboseyo) – Try to find a place where you can get help.

Using “가지다” (gajida)

Tip: “가지다” implies ownership or possession after acquiring something.

Example: 새로운 자전거를 가지고 싶어요 (saeroun jajeong-eoleul gajigo sip-eoyo) – I want to get a new bicycle (to have it).

Wrap Up

In conclusion, knowing how to say “get” in Korean is essential for effective communication. By using the appropriate verbs and expressions, both formally and informally, you can accurately convey your intended meaning. Remember to adapt your language based on the context and relationship with the person you’re speaking to. Practice these phrases and incorporate them into your Korean conversations for greater fluency and clarity.

Happy learning, and enjoy exploring the rich language and culture of Korean!