너한테 반했어
neohante banhaesseo
The English phrase "I have a crush on you" is expressed in Korean as 너한테 반했어 (neohante banhaesseo).
This phrase is used to express a sudden or strong romantic attraction. It is a common way to make a direct confession, often seen in romantic dramas, to tell someone you are captivated by them.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of 너한테 (to you) and 반했어 (fell for/was captivated by).
Which one should you use?
While the English "I have a crush on you" implies a state of liking someone, the Korean 반했어 literally translates to "fell for" or "was captivated by," which suggests a more sudden emotional impact.
How does it change in a sentence?
The form 반했습니다 is the formal version of the verb used to indicate the action in highly respectful settings.
How do you pronounce it?
neohante banhaesseo
Did you know?
- While 너한테 반했어 is a confession, Koreans often use the term 'some' (썸) to describe the ambiguous stage of mutual attraction before a relationship officially begins.
- If you are talking to someone much older or in a professional setting, never use 너한테 반했어 as the use of 너 (you) can sound incredibly rude or even aggressive.
- Koreans may use the word 심쿵 (sim-kung) alongside this phrase, which is an onomatopoeia for a heart skipping a beat from a romantic shock.
Examples in context
- 김 감독님, 저는 당신에게 감정을 표현하고 싶습니다. 당신은 뛰어난 사람이십니다.Director Kim, I want to express that I have feelings for you. You are a remarkable person.
- 야, Lisa, 나 너에게 반했어. 데이트하고 싶어?Hey Lisa, I have a crush on you. Would you like to go on a date?
- 나 사실 너한테 반했어.na sasill neohante banhaesseo.Actually, I have a crush on you.
- 갑자기 너한테 반했어.gapjagi neohante banhaesseo.I suddenly fell for you.
- 진심으로 너한테 반했어.jinsimeuro neohante banhaesseo.I am sincerely attracted to you.
Example conversation
Hyunwoo confesses his feelings to Jieun at a quiet cafe.
- 현우 Hyeon-woo지은아, 나 사실 너한테 반했어.jieun-a, na sasill neohante banhaesseo.Jieun, actually, I have a crush on you.
- 지은 Ji-eun정말? 갑자기 무슨 소리야?jeongmal? gapjagi museun soriya?Really? What are you talking about all of a sudden?
- 현우 Hyeon-woo진심이야. 너를 좋아하게 됐어.jinsimiya. neoreul joahage dwaesseo.I'm serious. I've come to like you.
- 지은 Ji-eun나도 너한테 관심 있었어.nado neohante gwansim isseosseo.I was interested in you too.
