Welcome to our comprehensive guide on how to say “last week” in Korean! Whether you want to learn the formal or informal way, we have you covered. Let’s dive right in and explore the various ways to express this concept in the Korean language.
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Say “Last Week”
If you are in a formal or polite setting, it is important to use the appropriate language. Here are a few options to express “last week” formally:
1. 지난 주 (jinan ju)
The most common way to express “last week” formally is by using the term “지난 주.” This phrase is widely accepted and understood throughout Korea. It is suitable for both written and spoken contexts.
Example Usage:
제가 지난 주에 서울에 갔어요. (Jega jinan ju-e seoul-e gasseoyo.)
I went to Seoul last week.
2. 지난 주간 (jinan jugan)
Another formal option is to use the term “지난 주간.” It carries a similar meaning to “지난 주” but specifically emphasizes the duration of the week.
Example Usage:
그 회의는 지난 주간에 열렸어요. (Geu hoeuineun jinan jugan-e yeollyeosseoyo.)
The meeting took place last week.
Informal Ways to Say “Last Week”
When talking to close friends, family, or in informal situations, you can use more casual expressions. Here are a couple of informal ways to say “last week” in Korean:
1. 지난 주에 (jinan jue)
To express “last week” informally, you can simply use the term “지난 주에.” This is a versatile phrase that works well in both spoken and written informal conversations.
Example Usage:
지난 주에 친구들과 영화를 봤어. (Jinan jue chingudeulgwa yeonghwareul bwasseo.)
I watched a movie with my friends last week.
2. 지난 주 동안 (jinan ju dong-an)
Another informal option is to use the phrase “지난 주 동안.” This expression carries a slightly more detailed meaning of “during last week” and is widely used in everyday conversations.
Example Usage:
지난 주 동안 엄청 바빴어. (Jinan ju dong-an eomcheong bappasseo.)
I was extremely busy throughout last week.
Summary
Now you are equipped with the knowledge of how to say “last week” in Korean both formally and informally. To summarize:
- To say “last week” formally, use “지난 주 (jinan ju)” or “지난 주간 (jinan jugan)”
- To say “last week” informally, use “지난 주에 (jinan jue)” or “지난 주 동안 (jinan ju dong-an)”
Remember to adjust your choice of expression based on the level of formality required for the situation. Practice using these phrases in conversation to become more comfortable with them.
Language is a reflection of culture, and using the appropriate terms when speaking Korean shows respect and understanding of the customs. Enjoy incorporating these phrases into your Korean conversations, and continue exploring the beautiful Korean language!
