여기 있어요
yeogi isseoyo
The English phrase "here you go" can be translated into Korean as 여기 있어요 (yeogi isseoyo).
This phrase is used specifically when physically handing an object to someone.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of 여기 (here) and 있어요 (to be/to exist).
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
For a more formal version used in professional settings or when speaking to superiors, use 여기 있습니다. The casual version 여기 있어 is used with friends or people younger than you.
How do you pronounce it?
yeogi isseoyo
Did you know?
- When handing an object using 여기 있어요, it is polite to use both hands or support your right forearm with your left hand. Using only one hand can appear dismissive or even rude in many social contexts.
- The word 여기 was recorded as 이ᅌᅥ긔〮 in the 1447 text Seokbo sangjeol, showing how the word has evolved since the early days of the Korean alphabet.
- While 'here you go' is a simple statement in English, the Korean 여기 있어요 literally translates to 'it exists here', emphasizing the location of the object rather than the act of giving.
Examples in context
- 이거 줄게.Here you go.
- 도현 씨, 여기 있어요.Dohyeon-ssi, yeogi isseoyo.Dohyeon, here you go.
- 주문하신 커피 여기 있어요.jumunhasin keopi yeogi isseoyo.Here is the coffee you ordered.
Example conversation
In a cafe, Su-bin hands a menu to Do-hyeon.
- 도현 Do-hyeon수빈 씨, 메뉴판 좀 주세요.Subin-ssi, menyupan jom juseyo.Subin, please give me the menu.
- 수빈 Su-bin네, 여기 있어요.Ne, yeogi isseoyo.Sure, here you go.
- 도현 Do-hyeon고마워요.Gomawoyo.Thank you.
- 수빈 Su-bin아니에요.Anieyo.No problem.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries 여기, CC BY-SA 4.0.
