When learning a new language, expressing your feelings in a sincere and genuine way can be a wonderful experience. One phrase that holds a lot of power is expressing how much you like someone. In Korean, you can convey this sentiment by saying “I really really like you.” This guide will provide you with formal and informal ways to express your feelings, as well as some additional tips and examples. Let’s dive in!
Formal Expressions
If you want to express your feelings formally, here are a couple of phrases you can use:
1. 정말 정말 좋아해요 (jeongmal jeongmal joahaeyo)
This phrase translates to “I really really like you” in English. It shows a great deal of sincerity and respect.
Here’s an example of how to use this phrase:
Friend A: 그 사람을 좋아하냐? (geu saram-eul joahan-nya?) – Do you like that person?
Friend B: 네, 정말 정말 좋아해요. (ne, jeongmal jeongmal joahaeyo) – Yes, I really really like them.
2. 제가 정말 좋아합니다 (jega jeongmal joahamnida)
This phrase also means “I really like you” and is considered a polite expression.
Example:
Friend A: 요즘 스트레스가 많이 있어요. (yojeum seuteuleseu-ga manhi iss-eoyo) – I’ve been feeling really stressed lately.
Friend B: 네, 저는 제가 정말 좋아합니다. (ne, jeoneun jega jeongmal joahamnida) – Yes, I really like you a lot.
Informal Expressions
If you are close to the person you want to express your feelings to, you might prefer using informal expressions:
1. 정말 정말 좋아해 (jeongmal jeongmal joahaeya)
This phrase is similar to the formal one, but without the formal tone. It can be used with friends, peers, or people you are close to.
Example:
Friend A: 이 영화 어때? (i yeonghwa eottae?) – How do you like this movie?
Friend B: 정말 정말 좋아해. 같이 또 보러 가자. (jeongmal jeongmal joahaeya. gachi tto boreo gaja) – I really really like it. Let’s go watch it together again.
2. 나 정말 좋아해 (na jeongmal joahaeyo)
This phrase is a more casual way of saying “I really like you.”
Example:
Friend A: 오늘 식당 추천 좀 해줄래? (oneul sikdang chucheon jom haejullae?) – Can you recommend a restaurant for today?
Friend B: 그래. 나 정말 좋아해. (geurae. na jeongmal joahaeyo) – Sure. I really like you.
Tips and Variation
1. Adding “너무” (neomu) before “정말” (jeongmal) emphasizes the intensity of your feelings. For example, “너무 정말 좋아해요” (neomu jeongmal joahaeyo) means “I really really really like you.”
2. Body language is important when expressing your feelings. Maintaining eye contact and a warm smile can enhance the impact of your words.
3. Emphasize the word “좋아해요” (joahaeyo) by slightly elongating the syllables. This can convey more sincerity and depth of feeling.
4. Always consider the context and your relationship with the person you’re confessing to. Remember that different individuals may have different preferences based on their personality and cultural background.
Conclusion
Declaring your feelings to someone you like is a significant step in any relationship. By learning how to say “I really really like you” in Korean and by using the appropriate expressions, you can convey your emotions effectively. Whether you prefer a formal or informal tone, expressing oneself sincerely is key. Remember to consider the context and the person you are speaking to. Now it’s time to practice and speak from the heart! Good luck!
