안녕, 예쁜이
annyeong, yeppeuni
The English phrase "hi, beautiful" is translated into Korean as 안녕, 예쁜이 (annyeong, yeppeuni).
This phrase is an affectionate greeting used to address someone the speaker finds attractive or dear.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of 안녕 (hi) and 예쁜이 (pretty one/cutie). The suffix -이 is added to the adjective-turned-noun to create a person-referring noun.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
This phrase is highly informal and should only be used with people you are already close to or in a romantic context.
How do you pronounce it?
annyeong, yeppeuni
Did you know?
- The word 안녕 literally translates to 'peace' or 'tranquility'. By saying it, you are essentially asking if the person is experiencing a state of quietude and safety.
- Addressing a stranger with 예쁜이 is often perceived as aggressive 'catcalling' in Korea rather than a harmless flirtatious compliment.
- While 예쁜이 is a romantic term for adults, older Koreans often use it as a generic term of endearment for small children or pets.
Examples in context
- 안녕, 예쁜이!annyeong, yeppeuni!Hi, beautiful!
- 안녕, 예쁜이, 오늘 뭐 해?annyeong, yeppeuni, oneul mwo hae?Hi, beautiful, what are you doing today?
Example conversation
Hyunwoo greets Seoyeon warmly as she arrives at a cafe.
- 서연 Seo-yeon안녕, 현우!annyeong, hyeonwu!Hi, Hyunwoo!
- 현우 Hyeon-woo안녕, 예쁜이. 오래 기다렸어?annyeong, yeppeuni. orae gidaryeosseo?Hi, beautiful. Have you been waiting long?
- 서연 Seo-yeon아니, 방금 왔어.ani, banggeum wasseo.No, I just got here.
- 현우 Hyeon-woo다행이다. 같이 주문하자.dahaengida. gatchi jumunhaja.That's a relief. Let's order together.
