Learning how to say “How come?” in Korean is essential when trying to understand and communicate with native speakers. This phrase is used to express surprise or ask for an explanation regarding a given situation. In this guide, we will explore both formal and informal ways of saying “How come” in Korean, as well as providing tips, examples, and regional variations when necessary.
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Formal Phrases to Say “How Come” in Korean:
If you want to express “How come?” politely or in formal situations, here are some phrases you can use:
- 왜 그러세요? (wae geureoseyo?) – This is a formal way to say “How come?” in Korean. Use this when speaking to someone older, in a professional setting, or with individuals you are not familiar with.
- 왜 그런지요? (wae geureonjiyo?) – Another formal expression to ask “How come?” This phrase is similar to the previous one but adds a polite ending, making it respectful in formal situations.
Informal Phrases to Say “How Come” in Korean:
When talking to friends, family, or people of the same age or social status, you can use these informal expressions to say “How come?” in Korean:
- 어째서? (eojjaeseo?) – This is the most common and casual way to say “How come?” in Korean. It can be used with friends, siblings, or anyone you are close to.
- 왜 그래? (wae geurae?) – Another informal expression used to ask “How come?” in Korean. It is commonly used among friends when seeking an explanation.
Tips for Using “How Come” in Korean:
Here are some tips to enhance your usage of the phrase “How come” in Korean:
1. Context Matters:
Understanding the context in which you are using the phrase “How come” is important. Consider the relationship you have with the person you are speaking to and the overall atmosphere of the conversation. Adapting your language accordingly will help you sound more natural.
2. Politeness Levels:
Korean culture values respect, so it’s crucial to tailor your speech to the appropriate politeness level. The formal phrases mentioned earlier are safer to use when in doubt, especially with people you do not know well or elders.
3. Body Language:
Accompanying your words with appropriate body language can further enhance your communication. Maintaining a sincere and curious facial expression while asking “How come?” will demonstrate your genuine interest in understanding the situation.
Examples:
Formal Examples:
Person A: 신규 고객들에게 특별 혜택을 제공하고 있습니다. (shingyu gogaengdeurege teukbyeol hyejaegeul jegonghago itsseumnida.)
Person B: 왜 그런지요? (wae geureonjiyo?)
Translation:
Person A: We are offering special benefits to new customers.
Person B: How come?
Informal Examples:
Person A: 오늘 모임이 취소되었어. (oneul moimi chwosodoesseo.)
Person B: 왜 그래? (wae geurae?)
Translation:
Person A: Today’s gathering got canceled.
Person B: How come?
Regional Variations:
While the phrases mentioned above are widely understood and used throughout South Korea, there might be slight variations in different regions. However, these variations are minimal and shouldn’t deter you from using the phrases mentioned earlier.
Final Notes:
Mastering the phrase “How come?” in Korean will greatly contribute to your language skills and ability to communicate naturally. Remember to consider the formality of the situation and adjust your speech accordingly. Be attentive to the context and practice your pronunciation to improve your overall fluency. Keep engaging with native speakers and enjoy the process of learning the Korean language!
