What does it mean word for word?
The term 여러분 (yeoreobun) literally means "everyone" or "you all" when addressing a group.
Which one should you use?
While 여러분 안녕하세요 is polite, using just 안녕 (hi/bye) to a group is highly informal. You should only use the informal version with close friends or people younger than you.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
여러분 안녕하세요 is in the polite/formal register and is suitable for addressing a group in public settings, such as a speech, a classroom or a broadcast. It is also an option used among acquaintances or in casual settings where a slight level of formality is required. For a more formal tone, you can also use 안녕하세요 여러분. On the other hand, 여러분 안녕 is a casual and friendly way to say hello everyone.
How do you pronounce it?
yeoreobun annyeonghaseyo
When do people say it?
Koreans often bow when greeting others to show respect or acknowledge the presence of someone older or of higher status.
Did you know?
- The word 여러분 (yeoreobun) is actually a combination of the word for 'various' and the honorific counter for 'people'. It literally translates to 'various respected people'.
- Because the root of the greeting is 안녕하다 (annyeonghada), when you say 'hello', you are technically wishing the group 'to be in a state of peace or well-being'.
- While 여러분 means 'everyone', it is specifically used when speaking directly to a crowd. You cannot use it to talk about a group of people who are not present in the conversation.
Examples in context
- 여러분 안녕하세요.yeoreobun annyeonghaseyo.Hello everyone.
- 여러분 안녕하세요, 반갑습니다.yeoreobun annyeonghaseyo, bangapseumnida.Hello everyone, nice to meet you.
- 자, 여러분 안녕하세요!ja, yeoreobun annyeonghaseyo!Now, hello everyone!
Example conversation
Minjun is starting a presentation in front of a small group of people.
- 민준 Min-jun여러분 안녕하세요, 저는 민준입니다.yeoreobun annyeonghaseyo, jeoneun minjun-imnida.Hello everyone, I am Minjun.
- 지은 Ji-eun안녕하세요, 민준 씨.annyeonghaseyo, minjun ssi.Hello, Minjun.
- 민준 Min-jun오늘 발표를 시작하겠습니다.oneul balpyoreul sijak-hagesseumnida.I will begin the presentation today.
- 지은 Ji-eun잘 부탁드려요.jal butakdeuryeoyo.We look forward to it.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries 안녕하세요, 여러분, CC BY-SA 4.0.
