Greetings! If you find yourself feeling unwell while traveling or living in Korea, it’s important to be able to express that you are sick. Expressing your condition accurately can help you receive appropriate assistance and medical care. In this guide, we will explore various ways to say “I am sick” in Korean, including formal and informal expressions. We’ll also touch upon any regional variations that may exist. Let’s get started!
Table of Contents
1. Formal Ways to Say “I Am Sick” in Korean
When speaking in formal situations, it’s necessary to use the appropriate honorific language in Korean. Here are a few phrases you can use to convey that you are sick formally:
i) 아픕니다 (Apeumnida)
This phrase is a formal way to say “I am sick” in Korean. “아픕니다” is derived from the verb “아프다” (apeuda), which means “to be sick.” When combined with the formal verb ending “-ㅂ니다” (“-umnida”), it transforms into a polite and formal expression. It is a versatile phrase that can be used in various formal situations.
Example: 죄송합니다. 아픔니다. 의사를 만나야 할 것 같아요. (Joesonghamnida. Apeumnida. Uisareul mannaya hal geot gatayo.)
(I’m sorry. I am sick. I think I need to see a doctor.)
ii) 화장실에 다녀와서 좋을까요? (Hwajangshire da nyeowaseo joheulkka yo?)
Another formal way to explain that you are feeling sick is by using this polite expression. It translates to “May I go to the restroom?” This question is often used when you need to visit the bathroom due to feeling unwell. Though it may not explicitly state that you are sick, it implies your discomfort and is a polite way to address the situation.
Example: 죄송합니다. 화장실에 다녀와서 좋을까요? (Joesonghamnida. Hwajangshire da nyeowaseo joheulkka yo?)
(I’m sorry. May I go to the restroom?)
2. Informal Ways to Say “I Am Sick” in Korean
When conversing informally with friends, family, or close acquaintances, you can use more casual expressions. Here are a few options to express that you are sick in an informal setting:
i) 아파 (Apa)
The word “아파” (apa) simply means “sick” in an informal context. It’s a short and easy way to let your friends or close ones know that you are feeling unwell in a casual setting. Remember that this expression is suitable only for informal situations.
Example: 형, 나 어제부터 아파. 뭘 먹어야 할까? (Hyung, na eoje buteo apa. Mwol meokeoya halkka?)
(Brother, I have been sick since yesterday. What should I eat?)
ii) 몸이 안 좋아 (Momi an joha)
This phrase literally translates to “body not good” and is a casual way to express that you are sick. It is commonly used among friends and peers when discussing discomfort or illness.
Example: 조금 몸이 안 좋아서 집에만 있었어. (Jogeum momi an johaseo jibeman isseosseo.)
(I stayed at home because I wasn’t feeling well.)
3. Regional Variations
While Korean is primarily spoken in South Korea, there are some regional variations in the language. Here, we will briefly mention a couple of dialects that have different ways of saying “I am sick”:
i) Busan Dialect (부산 사투리)
In the Busan dialect, people often use the expression “아구 쳐” (agu cheo) to say they are not feeling well. It’s a unique phrase used specifically in the Busan region.
ii) Jeju Dialect (제주 사투리)
In the Jeju dialect, the phrase “물 때(애) 났어” (mul ddae(ae) nasseo) is commonly used to mean “I am sick.” Jeju Island has its own distinct dialect which differs from standard Korean.
In Conclusion
By now, you should have a good understanding of how to express that you are sick in Korean. Remember that the appropriate form of expression depends on the level of formality required in a given situation. Whether you are seeking medical help or simply informing your close ones about your condition, using the right phrases will ensure effective communication.
In formal situations, phrases like “아픕니다” (Apeumnida) or “화장실에 다녀와서 좋을까요?” (Hwajangshire da nyeowaseo joheulkka yo?) come in handy. In informal settings, you can use expressions like “아파” (Apa) or “몸이 안 좋아” (Momi an joha). If you’re in a specific region like Busan or Jeju, dialect-specific variations may be understood and appreciated.
Remember to take care of yourself and seek medical assistance when necessary. May you have a swift recovery! Take care!
