What does it mean word for word?
The phrase consists of 안녕, which is a casual way to say hi and 친구들, which means 'friends'. The suffix –들 is the plural marker added to the noun 친구 (friend) to make it 'friends'.
Which one should you use?
While 안녕 친구들 is used for a casual group of friends, you can use 여러분 안녕하세요? to say 'hello, everyone' when addressing a group of friends or acquaintances more formally. Additionally, 안녕! is a casual way to say hi, whereas 안뇽! is a shortened and friendlier version of 안녕. Using the polite form 안녕하세요 친구들 creates a stylistic mismatch unless the friends are being addressed with mock-politeness or within a specific social context.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
안녕 친구들 is strictly informal. It should not be used when addressing people older than you or in professional settings.
How does it change in a sentence?
In the word 친구들, the suffix –들 is the plural marker added to the noun 친구 to create the plural form 'friends'.
How do you pronounce it?
annyeong chingudeul
Did you know?
- The word 안녕 literally means 'peace' or 'tranquility' rather than just a greeting. When you say it, you are essentially asking if the person is in a state of peaceful repose.
- Because of strict age hierarchies, people who are not the same age often use titles like 'older brother' or 'older sister' instead of 친구, even if they are very close.
- The phrase 안녕 is unique because it is used for both 'hello' and 'goodbye' in casual settings.
Example conversation
Minji enters a cafe where Jihoon and other friends are waiting.
- 민지 Min-ji안녕 친구들! 많이 기다렸지?Annyeong chingudeul! Mani gidaryeotji?Hi friends! Did you wait long?
- 지훈 Ji-hun아니, 우리도 방금 왔어.Ani, urido banggeum wasseo.No, we just got here too.
- 민지 Min-ji다행이다. 뭐 마실래?Dahaeng-ida. Mwo masillae?That's a relief. What do you want to drink?
- 지훈 Ji-hun나는 아이스 아메리카노 마실게.Naneun aiseu amerikano masilge.I'll have an iced americano.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries 안녕, CC BY-SA 4.0.
