Learning how to express “I know” in Korean is essential for effective communication. Whether you’re addressing someone in a formal or informal setting, understanding the appropriate phrases will help you navigate conversations with ease. In this guide, we’ll explore various ways to express knowledge in Korean, including formal and informal expressions, as well as some regional variations.
Table of Contents
1. Formal Ways to Say “I Know”
When speaking formally or showing respect to someone older or in a position of authority, consider using the following phrases to convey your understanding:
a. 알고 있습니다 (algo iss-seum-ni-da)
This is the most common and straightforward way to say “I know” in a formal context. Here, “알고 있습니다” combines the verb “알다” (al-da), meaning “to know,” with the formal ending “습니다” (seum-ni-da).
Example: 네, 그 사실 알고 있습니다. (Ne, geu sa-shil algo iss-seum-ni-da) – Yes, I know that fact.
b. 알고 있어요 (algo iss-eo-yo)
This form is still polite but slightly less formal than the previous one. It is commonly used in polite conversations with people of similar age or social standing.
Example: 그 영화는 이미 봤어요. 알고 있어요. (Geu yeong-hwa-neun i-mi bwat-eo-yo. Al-go iss-eo-yo) – I already watched that movie. I know.
2. Informal Ways to Say “I Know”
When speaking informally with friends, family, or individuals of the same age or younger, you can use the following expressions to convey your understanding:
a. 알아 (ara)
This is a casual and widely used phrase to express “I know” among friends or people of the same age group.
Example: 그녀 오늘 생일이야? 네, 알아. (Geu-nyeo oneul saeng-il-i-ya? Ne, ara) – Is it her birthday today? Yes, I know.
b. 아니, 알아 (ani, ara)
Adding “아니” (ani) before “알아” (ara) emphasizes your knowledge on a specific topic or when denying misinformation.
Example: 그 영화 스릴러 장르야? – 아니, 알아. (Geu yeong-hwa seuril-leo jang-reu-ya? – Ani, ara) – Is that movie a thriller genre? – No, I know (it’s not).
3. Regional Variations
While Korean is mainly standardized across the country, there might be slight variations in regional dialects. The phrases mentioned earlier can be used nationwide, but individuals in certain regions might have their own unique expressions. Here’s an example from the Busan dialect in the southeastern region:
a. 알아보노 (ara-bo-no)
In Busan, it is common to hear “알아보노” (ara-bo-no) instead of “알아” (ara) when expressing “I know” informally. This phrase adds a local flair to your conversations if you find yourself in the Busan area.
Example: 어제 누가 우승했어? – 알아보노. (Eo-je nuga u-sung-haet-eo? – Ara-bo-no) – Who won yesterday? – I know (check it out).
Wrapping Up
Now that you’re familiar with both formal and informal ways to say “I know” in Korean, you can confidently express your understanding according to the context and the people you are conversing with. Remember to use the formal forms when required, especially in formal or professional settings, and the informal forms with friends and peers. Don’t forget to be mindful of the regional variations in dialects, such as the Busan dialect. Practice these phrases, and you’ll enhance your ability to communicate effectively in Korean!
