~ 것 같아요
~ geot gatayo
In Korean, "I feel like" is expressed as ~ 것 같아요 (~ geot gatayo).
This phrase is used to express an opinion, a guess or a feeling softly to avoid sounding too assertive.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of ~ 것 (thing/fact) and 같아요 (is the same/is like). Literally, it translates to "it seems like / it is like a thing".
Which one should you use?
While ~ 것 같아요 is the standard polite form, you may encounter ~ㄴ/은/는 것 같아 or ~라고 생각해. The latter, ~라고 생각해, specifically adds a sense of personal opinion to the expression.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
Similarly, ~ㄴ/은/는 것 같아 and ~라고 생각해 are informal ways to express this sentiment.
How do you pronounce it?
~ geot gatayo
Did you know?
- While English speakers use 'I feel like' for desires, such as 'I feel like eating pizza', Koreans use a different expression, ~고 싶어요, for cravings.
- While a learner might use ~ 것 같아요 to express a genuine feeling, Koreans often use it even when they are certain of a fact, simply to sound more polite and less confrontational.
- In high-pressure professional environments, omitting ~ 것 같아요 and speaking too directly can be perceived as aggressive or rude by native speakers.
Examples in context
- 저는 점심을 먹어야 한다고 생각해요.I feel like I should eat lunch.
- 나는 배고픈 것 같아.I feel hungry.
- 나는 지금 산책을 해야 한다고 생각해.I feel like I should take a walk right now.
