Learning how to express agreement or acknowledge someone’s statement is an essential skill when communicating in any language. In Korean, saying “I know, right?” has its own unique phrases and nuances. Whether you want to use a more formal expression or a casual one, this guide will provide you with a variety of options, along with tips, examples, and even regional variations. Let’s dive in and explore how to say “I know, right?” in Korean!
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Formal Expressions
When you want to express agreement formally, showing respect to the listener or the person you are speaking with, you can use the following phrases:
1. 알겠습니다 (algetseumnida)
This phrase is a polite way to say “I understand.” It is commonly used in formal situations, such as business settings or when speaking to someone of higher authority. While it doesn’t directly translate to “I know, right?” it can be used as an appropriate response when showing understanding and agreement.
Example:
Person A: 이번 주말에 파티를 하려고 해요. (Ibeon jumaree pateereul haryeogo haeyo) – “I’m planning to throw a party this weekend.”
Person B: 네, 알겠습니다. (Ne, algetseumnida) – “Yes, I understand.”
2. 그렇게 생각합니다 (geureoke saenggakhapnida)
This phrase translates to “I think so” or “I feel the same way.” It conveys a formal agreement with the speaker’s statement or opinion.
Example:
Person A: 이 영화는 정말 재밌었어요. (i yeonghwaneun jeongmal jaemisseosseoyo) – “This movie was really fun.”
Person B: 그렇게 생각합니다. (geureoke saenggakhapnida) – “I think so too.”
3. 그런데로 알고 있습니다 (geureondelo algoinissseumnida)
This expression is more formal and translates to “I think the same way” or “I know that.” It is used when you want to show agreement based on the information you already possess.
Example:
Person A: 저녁에 비가 올 것 같아요. (jeonyeoge biga ol geot gatayo) – “I think it will rain tonight.”
Person B: 그런데로 알고 있습니다. (geureondelo algoinissseumnida) – “I know that.”
Informal Expressions
If you’re in a casual setting or speaking to someone of similar age or social status, you can use these informal expressions to say “I know, right?” in Korean:
4. 알아 (ara)
This is a simple and commonly used word meaning “I know.” It is the most straightforward and casual way to express agreement in Korean.
Example:
Person A: 이 신발 진짜 이쁘다고 생각해. (i sinbal jinjja ippeudago saenggakhae) – “I think these shoes are really pretty.”
Person B: 응, 알아. (eung, ara) – “Yeah, I know.”
5. 그러다, 그래 (geureoda, geurae)
This phrase is an informal way to say “I know” or “I agree.” It can be used alone or to respond to someone else’s statement.
Example:
Person A: 오늘 집에 늦게 갈 거 같아. (oneul jibe neutge gal geo gata) – “I think I’ll go home late today.”
Person B: 그러다, 그래. (geureoda, geurae) – “Yeah, I know” or “Yeah, I agree.”
6. 알았어 (arasseo)
This phrase is similar to “I got it” or “I know it.” It is a casual and straightforward response commonly used among friends or peers.
Example:
Person A: 이번 주말에 같이 여행하자. (ibeon jumaree kachi yeohaenghaja) – “Let’s travel together this weekend.”
Person B: 알았어. (arasseo) – “Got it” or “I know.”
Regional Variations
As with any language, there may be regional variations in how people express agreement. However, the phrases mentioned above are widely understood and can be used throughout Korea. It’s always a good idea to learn the standard expressions first and adapt to any regional differences once you become more comfortable and familiar with the language.
Remember, when using these expressions, tone and body language also play a significant role in conveying your agreement. Be sure to pay attention to the context and adjust your level of formality accordingly.
Now that you have a range of phrases to express “I know, right?” in Korean, you’ll be able to engage in conversations with native speakers and show your agreement in various situations. Keep practicing, and soon enough, you’ll become proficient in expressing agreement in Korean!
