내 사랑
nae sarang
The English phrase "my love" is translated into Korean as 내 사랑 (nae sarang).
내 사랑 is a term of endearment used to address or refer to a person one loves. While it directly translates to "my love", it is more common to see this phrase in song lyrics, poetry or written literature rather than in everyday spoken conversation.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of 내 (nae), meaning "my" and 사랑 (sarang), meaning "love".
How do you pronounce it?
nae sarang
When do people say it?
While 내 사랑 is a literal translation, you may also encounter the word 바보 (babo). Although it literally translates to "fool" or "silly", it can function as an affectionate term between romantic partners.
Did you know?
- In Korea, romantic partners often use nicknames based on animals or food rather than formal terms like 내 사랑.
- The word 사랑 ('love') is used for both the feeling of love and the person being loved.
- The word 내 (nae) can also function as a suffix meaning 'through' or 'throughout', showing how one short sound can change meaning entirely based on its position.
Examples in context
- 내 사랑, 오늘도 고생했어.nae sarang, oneuldo gosaenghaesseo.My love, you worked hard today.
- 너는 영원한 내 사랑이야.neoneun yeongwonhan nae sarang-iya.You are my eternal love.
Example conversation
Minjun and Jieun are meeting after a long day at work.
- 민준 Min-jun내 사랑, 이제 왔어?nae sarang, ije wasseo?My love, are you here now?
- 지은 Ji-eun응, 민준아. 많이 기다렸지?eung, Minjun-a. mani gidaryeotji?Yes, Minjun. Did you wait long?
- 민준 Min-jun아니, 너만 보면 행복해.ani, neoman bomyeon haengbokhae.No, I'm just happy to see you.
- 지은 Ji-eun나도 너를 정말 사랑해.nado neoreul jeongmal saranghae.I love you so much too.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries 내, CC BY-SA 4.0.
