Welcome to our guide on how to express “I thought” in Korean. Whether you want to convey your thoughts in a formal or informal setting, we have got you covered. In this guide, we will explore various ways to express “I thought” in your conversations, provide tips, examples, and even touch upon regional variations. So let’s dive right in!
Table of Contents
Formal Expressions for “I Thought” in Korean
When speaking formally in Korean, especially in professional or respectful situations, it’s important to use appropriate language. Here are several commonly used expressions to convey “I thought” in a formal manner:
1. -라고 생각했어요 (-rago saeng-gak-haess-eoyo)
This expression is a polite way to say “I thought” in Korean. It is commonly used in formal settings, such as business meetings or presentations. Let’s look at an example:
Example:
저는 오늘 비가 올 거라고 생각했어요.
(Jeoneun oneul biga ol georago saeng-gak-haess-eoyo)
I thought it would rain today.
2. -더라고요 (-deuragoyo)
This expression is another polite form of “I thought” in Korean. It is commonly used to express personal opinions or assumptions. Here’s an example:
Example:
그 영화는 정말 재미있을 거라고 생각했더라고요.
(Geu yeonghwan jeongmal jaemiisseul georago saeng-gak-haess-deuragoyo)
I thought that movie would be really interesting.
Informal Expressions for “I Thought” in Korean
When speaking informally with friends, family, or close acquaintances, you can use a less formal language. Here are a couple of commonly used expressions to say “I thought” in an informal setting:
1. -라고 생각했어 (-rago saeng-gak-haess-eo)
This expression is the casual form of “I thought” in Korean. It is ideal for conversations with people you are close to. Take a look at the example below:
Example:
방금은 집에 가야겠다고 생각했어.
(Bang-geum-eun jibe gaya-getdago saeng-gak-haess-eo)
I thought I should go home just now.
2. -라고 생각해 (-rago saeng-gak-hae)
This expression is another informal way to say “I thought” in Korean. It is suitable for casual conversations and informal situations. Here’s an example:
Example:
우리 오늘 약속은 없을 거라고 생각해.
(Uri oneul yaksogeun eopseul georago saeng-gakhae)
I thought we didn’t have any plans today.
Tips for Using “I Thought” in Korean
To effectively use these expressions, here are a few tips to keep in mind:
1. Be mindful of your speech level
Always consider the appropriate speech level to use based on the formality of the situation. Using the wrong speech level can lead to misunderstandings or inappropriate communication.
2. Add context to your sentences
Providing additional context with your “I thought” statements can make your conversations more meaningful. Including specific reasons or explanations can improve understanding.
3. Practice proper pronunciation
Pronunciation is crucial in Korean. Take your time to listen and repeat the expressions to ensure your pronunciation is clear and accurate.
Common Regional Variations
Korean language variations can exist based on regions. However, when it comes to expressing “I thought,” the differences are minimal. Therefore, it is not necessary to discuss regional variations for this specific phrase.
Conclusion
Now you have a solid understanding of how to say “I thought” in Korean. Remember to adjust your expressions based on formal or informal settings, and take note of the speech levels suitable for each situation. By following the provided tips and examples, you will be able to confidently express your thoughts in Korean conversations. Practice regularly and continue learning to improve your language skills. Happy conversing!
