Welcome to our comprehensive guide on how to say “by the way” in Korean! Whether you want to have casual conversations with friends or communicate formally in various situations, this guide will equip you with all the necessary knowledge. I’ll provide you with different phrases, along with tips and examples to help you understand the usage and context better. Let’s dive right in!
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Say “By the Way” in Korean
When you want to express “by the way” in a formal Korean setting, you can use the following phrases:
1. 그런데 (Geureon-de)
This phrase literally means “by the way” and can be used in formal situations. It is a versatile expression used to introduce a topic that is relevant but not directly connected to the ongoing conversation.
Example:
그런데, 저희 회의 일정은 변경되었습니다. (By the way, our meeting schedule has changed.)
2. 참고로 (Cham-go-ro)
This phrase is another way to say “by the way” formally. It indicates that you have something additional or interesting to mention on a related topic.
Example:
참고로, 한국어 공부를 시작한 이유가 무엇인가요? (By the way, what made you start studying Korean?)
Informal Ways to Say “By the Way” in Korean
When speaking informally with friends, you can use more casual phrases to say “by the way” in Korean. Here are a few options:
1. 그런데 (Geureon-de)
Just like in formal settings, “그런데” can also be used informally to say “by the way” among friends. It serves the same purpose and can be used interchangeably.
Example:
그런데, 오늘 뭐 할까요? (By the way, what should we do today?)
2. 그래서 (Geu-rae-seo)
This phrase, meaning “so” or “and so,” can be used informally to introduce an additional topic during a conversation.
Example:
그래서, 너 어제 뭘 먹었어? (By the way, what did you eat yesterday?)
Tips and Cautions
Although the phrases above are commonly used, it’s important to consider a few additional tips and cautions:
1. Context is Key
When using any of these phrases or expressions, always consider the ongoing conversation and the context. Choose the appropriate expression based on how formal or informal the situation is.
2. Tone and Delivery
Remember that your tone and delivery play a significant role in conveying the right meaning. Make sure to practice speaking these phrases naturally to sound fluent and confident.
Conclusion
With this guide, you are now equipped with various ways to say “by the way” in Korean, both formally and informally. Remember to choose the appropriate phrase based on the context of the conversation. Practice using these expressions in your daily Korean interactions to become more fluent and conversational. Enjoy your language journey, and don’t hesitate to continue exploring and practicing Korean phrases!
