난 널 알아
nan neol ara
The English phrase "I know you" is expressed in Korean as 난 널 알아 (nan neol ara).
This phrase is used to state that you are familiar with someone or recognize who they are.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase 난 널 알아 is a contraction of several parts: 나 는 (I + topic marker), 너 를 (you + object marker) and 알아 (know).
Which one should you use?
The phrase 니가 누군지 알아 specifically means "I know who you are".
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
It should only be used with people of equal or lower social status, such as close friends or younger people. For a more polite version, use 저는 당신을 알아요, which uses the subject 저 (I) and the verb ending -아요 (know).
How do you pronounce it?
nan neol ara
Did you know?
- The phrase 니가 누군지 알아 is frequently used in Korean cinema and TV dramas as a menacing threat. In this context, it does not mean the speaker is curious about the person's identity but rather that they know the person's secrets or weaknesses.
- While the formal 당신 is the dictionary translation for 'you', using it in a spontaneous conversation with a stranger can actually be seen as a challenge or an insult. It is more common in written poetry or during heated arguments between couples.
- The word 알아 comes from the verb 알다, which also means 'to understand'. Because of this, a simple nod and the word 알아 can function as both 'I know that fact' and 'I understand your feelings'.
Examples in context
- 알고 있습니다, 선생님I know you, teacher.
- 니가 누군지 알아, 친구야I know who you are, my friend.
- 난 널 알아.nan neol ara.I know you.
- 걱정 마, 난 널 알아.geokjeong ma, nan neol ara.Don't worry, I know you.
- 우리는 구면이지? 난 널 알아.urineun gumyeoniji? nan neol ara.We've met before, right? I know you.
Example conversation
Two people meet unexpectedly at a cafe.
- 현우 Hyeon-woo혹시 우리 어디서 봤죠?hoksi uri eodiseo bwasjyo?Did we perhaps meet somewhere?
- 서연 Seo-yeon잘 모르겠어요. 누구세요?jal moreugesseoyo. nuguseyo?I'm not sure. Who are you?
- 현우 Hyeon-woo서연 맞지? 난 널 알아.Seoyeon matji? nan neol ara.You're Seoyeon, right? I know you.
- 서연 Seo-yeon아, 현우구나! 반가워.a, Hyeonuguna! bangawo.Oh, it's Hyeonu! Nice to see you.
