Glasses are an essential accessory for many people around the world. Whether you want to purchase a new pair of glasses in Korea, discuss eye health, or simply have a conversation about eyewear, it’s useful to know how to say “glasses” in Korean. In this guide, we’ll explore both formal and informal ways to express this term, and provide insightful tips and examples along the way.
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Say “Glasses” in Korean
If you’re speaking in a formal context, such as during a business meeting or when talking to elders, you can use the following terms to refer to “glasses”:
- 안경 (an-gyeong) – This is the most standard and widely used term for “glasses” in Korean.
- 안경테 (an-gyeong-te) – Refers specifically to the frame of the glasses.
- 안경 렌즈 (an-gyeong lenjeu) – Focuses on the lenses of the glasses.
These formal terms can be used in various situations, such as when visiting an optometrist or discussing eyewear professionally.
Informal Ways to Say “Glasses” in Korean
In casual or informal situations, you have more flexibility when referring to “glasses.” Here are some informal ways to express this term:
- 글라스 (geulaseu) – This borrowed English word is commonly used among young Koreans to refer to glasses. It has a trendy and modern feel to it.
- 안경이야 (an-gyeong-i-ya) – Literally translates to “It’s glasses.” This phrase is often used while pointing at the glasses.
- 안경쓴 사람 (an-gyeong-sseun sa-ram) – This translates to “the person wearing glasses” and effectively conveys the meaning without explicitly using the word “glasses.”
These informal expressions are perfect for use in casual conversations with friends, peers, or family members.
Tips and Examples
Mastering the correct usage of words related to “glasses” in Korean can greatly enhance your communication skills. Here are some tips and examples to help you understand their usage better:
1. Using the Particle “을/를” (eul/reul)
When talking about glasses as the direct object in a sentence, you need to use the particle “을/를” (eul/reul) to indicate the object. Here’s an example:
안경을 잃어버렸어요. (An-gyeong-eul ilh-eo-beo-ryeo-sseo-yo.)
I lost my glasses.
In this example, “을” (eul) is used after the word “안경” (an-gyeong) to indicate that it is the lost object.
2. Talking about Wearing Glasses
When discussing wearing glasses or someone’s visual aids, you can use the following expressions:
안경을 쓰다 (an-gyeong-eul sseu-da)
To wear glasses
For instance, you can say:
내 동생은 안경을 쓰고 있어요. (Nae dongsaeng-eun an-gyeong-eul sseo-go iss-eo-yo.)
My younger sibling is wearing glasses.
3. Complimenting Someone’s Glasses
If you want to compliment someone’s glasses, you can make use of the following phrases:
안경이 잘 어울려요. (An-gyeong-i jal eo-woo-ryeo-yo.)
The glasses suit you well.
Make someone’s day by using this compliment next time you notice their glasses!
4. Eyeglasses vs. Sunglasses
It is important to differentiate between eyeglasses and sunglasses when having a conversation about glasses. Here are the terms to use:
선글라스 (seon-geulaseu)
Sunglasses
For example, you can say:
오늘은 선글라스를 써야겠어요. (Oneul-eun seon-geulaseu-reul sseo-ya-get-sseo-yo.)
We should wear sunglasses today.
Conclusion
Congratulations! You now have a comprehensive understanding of how to say “glasses” in Korean. You’ve learned formal and informal expressions, as well as various related phrases and tips to enhance your fluency in conversation. Remember to use the appropriate vocabulary depending on the context and enjoy your discussions about glasses in Korean with confidence!
