Learning how to express different opinions and beliefs is essential when studying a new language. In Korean, expressing uncertainty or agreement can be done in various ways, and this guide will focus on teaching you how to say “I guess so” in Korean. We’ll explore both formal and informal expressions, providing tips, examples, and regional variations where necessary.
Table of Contents
Formal Expressions
1. 그렇겠죠 (Geureokketjyo)
The formal expression for “I guess so” in Korean is “그렇겠죠” (Geureokketjyo). It is commonly used in professional or polite situations when you need to express agreement or acceptance. The phrase “그렇겠죠” can be broken down as follows:
“그렇” means “like that” or “so”.
“겠” indicates supposition or conjecture.
“죠” is a sentence-ending particle used to seek agreement or confirmation.
Here are a few examples of using “그렇겠죠” in different situations:
- Question: 새로운 계획에 동의하세요? (Saeroun gyehoekae donguihaseyo?) – Do you agree with the new plan?
Answer: 네, 그렇겠죠. (Ne, geureokketjyo.) – Yes, I guess so. - Question: 시간 변경에 동의하시나요? (Sigan byeonggae donguihasinayo?) – Do you agree with the time change?
Answer: 그렇겠죠. (Geureokketjyo.) – I guess so.
Informal Expressions
1. 그럴거야 (Geureolgeoya)
In informal settings, a common way to say “I guess so” is by using “그럴거야” (Geureolgeoya). This expression is more casual and suitable for use with friends, family, or acquaintances. The breakdown of “그럴거야” is as follows:
“그럴” means “like that” or “so.”
“거야” is a casual and colloquial form of “것이다” which means “it is.”
Let’s look at a couple of examples of “그럴거야” in informal contexts:
- Friend: 오늘 파티에 올 거야? (Oneul patie ol geoya?) – Are you coming to the party today?
Answer: 음, 그럴거야. (Eum, geureolgeoya.) – Well, I guess so. - Friend: 수영하자! (Suyounghaja!) – Let’s go swimming!
Answer: 그럴거야! (Geureolgeoya!) – I guess so!
Additional Tips and Variations
Variation:
Sometimes, Koreans also use the expression “약간 그럴듯해요” (Yakgan geureoldeut haeyo) to convey a similar meaning. It means “It seems a bit so” or “That sounds plausible.”
Adding Intensity:
If you want to emphasize the uncertainty, you can modify the expressions slightly by adding adverbs like “아마” (ama) meaning “maybe” or “probably” and “조금” (jogeum) meaning “a little” before the phrase. For example, “아마 그렇겠죠” (Ama geureokketjyo) or “조금 그럴거야” (Jogeum geureolgeoya).
Non-Verbal Gestures:
Remember that expressions can be supplemented with non-verbal cues to convey your uncertainty. Facial expressions, tone of voice, and body language play a significant role in Korean communication.
In Conclusion
In this guide, we explored both formal and informal ways to say “I guess so” in Korean. Remember to use “그렇겠죠” (Geureokketjyo) in formal contexts and “그럴거야” (Geureolgeoya) in informal situations. Feel free to add adverbs for emphasis and non-verbal gestures to enhance your communication. Keep practicing these expressions to become more comfortable and confident when interacting with native Korean speakers!
