Learning how to say “I did it” in Korean is essential for anyone studying the language. Whether you want to express your accomplishments, success, or completion of a task, being able to convey this phrase correctly is advantageous. In this guide, we will explore different ways to say “I did it” in formal and informal contexts, providing you with tips, examples, and regional variations if necessary.
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Formal Ways to Say “I Did It” in Korean
When speaking in formal contexts, such as in professional settings or addressing someone older or in a higher position, it is important to use the correct level of politeness. Below are some phrases you can use to express “I did it” formally:
1. 하였습니다 (Ha-eossseumnida)
하였습니다 (Ha-eossseumnida) is the formal way to say “I did it” in Korean. This phrase consists of the verb “하다” (hada), meaning “to do,” and the formal past tense ending “-습니다” (“-seumnida”). It shows respect and is suitable for formal situations.
Example:
A: 미팅 준비는 다 했어요? (Miting junbi-neun da haesseoyo?)
B: 네, 제가 미리 하였습니다. (Ne, jega miri ha-eossseumnida.)
A: Did you prepare for the meeting?
B: Yes, I did it in advance.
2. 완료하였습니다 (Wanryoha-eossseumnida)
완료하였습니다 (Wanryoha-eossseumnida) is another formal expression for “I did it.” This phrase combines the noun “완료” (wanryo), meaning “completion,” with the formal past tense ending “-하였습니다” (“-ha-eossseumnida”).
Example:
A: 신청서 작성은 언제 하였어요? (Sincheongseo jakseong-eun eonje haesseoyo?)
B: 어제 저녁에 완료하였습니다. (Eoje jeonyeog-e wanryoha-eossseumnida.)
A: When did you fill out the application form?
B: I completed it yesterday evening.
Informal Ways to Say “I Did It” in Korean
In casual and informal situations, such as among friends or with peers, you can use less formal expressions to say “I did it.” Here are a couple of common phrases used in informal contexts:
1. 했어 (Haesseo)
했어 (Haesseo) is the informal way to say “I did it” in Korean. This phrase is derived from the verb “하다” (hada), meaning “to do,” in its past tense form “했다” (haetta). It is used when speaking casually with friends or people of the same age group.
Example:
A: 그 영화 봤어? (Geu yeonghwa bwasseo?)
B: 네, 봤어. (Ne, bwasseo.)
A: Did you watch that movie?
B: Yes, I did.
2. 해버렸어 (Haebeoryeosseo)
해버렸어 (Haebeoryeosseo) is an informal expression that adds emphasis to the phrase “I did it.” It consists of the verb “하다” (hada), the casual past tense form “했다” (haetta), and the ending “-버렸어” (“-beoryeosseo”). This form is commonly used to show enthusiasm or excitement.
Example:
A: 이번 주말에 계획 있어? (Ibeon jumal-e gyehoek isseo?)
B: 아니, 계획 없어. 자고 싶어서 아무 것도 하지 않아 버렸어. (Ani, gyehoek eobseo. Jago sip-eoseo amu geosdo haji anh-a beoryeosseo.)
A: Do you have any plans for this weekend?
B: No, I don’t have any plans. I just ended up not doing anything because I wanted to rest.
Tips for Using “I Did It” in Korean
To use these phrases effectively, keep the following tips in mind:
- Always consider the level of formality required in different contexts. Using the wrong level of politeness can be considered impolite or disrespectful.
- Pay attention to the verb tense and use the appropriate form according to past, present, or future situations.
- Be aware of honorifics and language levels when speaking to people of higher social status or older individuals.
Conclusion
In conclusion, being able to express “I did it” in Korean is crucial for effective communication. This guide has provided you with formal and informal ways to convey this phrase, along with tips and examples to help you understand their usage. Remember to consider the context, level of formality, and your relationship with the person you are speaking to when choosing the appropriate expression. Practice using these phrases in various situations to become more confident in expressing your accomplishments in Korean.
