Hello! Whether you’re planning to visit South Korea, connect with Korean friends, or simply expand your language skills, it’s always helpful to know how to express your interests. In this guide, we’ll explore different ways to say “I like to read” in Korean, covering both formal and informal expressions. Let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
Formal Expressions:
Formal expressions in Korean should be used in professional settings, with elders, or when speaking to strangers. Here’s how you can say “I like to read” formally:
1. Basic Formal Expression:
When expressing your love for reading in a formal setting, you can say:
열심히 책을 읽는 것을 좋아합니다. (yeolsimhi chaek-eul ilgeun geoseul johahamnida.)
This phrase literally translates to “I like to read books diligently” and will surely impress the listener with your respect and sophisticated vocabulary!
2. Expanded Formal Expression:
If you want to elaborate on the topic, you can use this longer phrase:
책을 읽는 것을 좋아하고 독서는 저에게 큰 즐거움을 줍니다. (chaek-eul ilgeun geoseul johahago dokseoneun jeo-ege keun jeulgeo-eum-eul jumida.)
This means “I like reading books, and reading gives me great pleasure.” It allows you to express your passion for reading in a more comprehensive way.
Informal Expressions:
When speaking with friends, peers, or people younger than you, informal expressions are more suitable. Here are a few ways to say “I like to read” informally:
1. Basic Informal Expression:
The simplest way to express your love for reading informally is:
난 책 읽는 거 좋아해. (nan chaek ilgeun geo johahae.)
Using “난” as a contraction for “나는” (I), this sentence translates to “I like reading books” in a casual tone.
2. Slightly More Expressive Informal Expression:
You can add a bit more emphasis by using the following phrase:
나는 책 읽는 걸 좋아해, 정말 마음이 편해져요. (naneun chaek ilgeun geol johahae, jeongmal maeumi pyeonhaejyeoyo.)
This translates to “I really enjoy reading books, it brings peace to my heart.” By adding “정말” (jeongmal) which means “really” and expressing the positive impact reading has on you, you’ll show your enthusiasm!
Tips and Examples:
Now that you know how to say “I like to read” in Korean formally and informally, let’s explore some additional tips and examples to help you use the phrase effectively:
1. Don’t forget to pronounce it correctly:
If you’re not familiar with the Korean alphabet yet, you can use romanization to help you pronounce the phrases. However, always keep in mind that the romanization might not represent the exact sound.
2. Practice your intonation:
Be mindful of the natural intonation in Korean. Practice speaking the expressions with the proper rise and fall in tone to sound more fluent and natural.
3. Use it in conversations:
To reinforce your learning, incorporate the phrase into conversations. For example:
Friend: 어떤 취미 있어? (eotteon chwimi isseo?) – “Do you have any hobbies?”
You: 나는 책 읽는 걸 좋아해. (naneun chaek ilgeun geol johahae.) – “I like reading books.”
Using the phrase in relevant situations will help you retain it and become more comfortable with the language.
4. Explore Korean literature:
To dive deeper into your reading interests, consider exploring Korean literature. Reading books originally written in Korean will expose you to the language’s cultural nuances and improve your language skills.
Now armed with various ways to say “I like to read” in Korean formally and informally, along with some tips and examples, you’re ready to express your love for reading. Keep practicing, and soon you’ll be able to engage in conversations about your favorite books with native Korean speakers!
Happy reading!
