Learning how to say “let go” in Korean can be incredibly useful in various situations, whether you’re trying to express your emotions, give someone advice, or simply engage in a conversation. This guide will provide you with formal and informal ways to say “let go” in Korean, along with some regional variations that may be relevant. Read on to discover everything you need to know about this commonly used phrase!
Table of Contents
Informal Ways to Say “Let Go”
1. 놓다 (noh-da)
The most common and versatile way to say “let go” informally in Korean is by using the verb 놓다 (noh-da). This verb is frequently used to imply releasing or setting free from one’s grip or control. For example:
Example: 그립게 놓아주세요. (Geuribge no-ah-juseyo) – Please let go of me.
2. 보내다 (bo-nae-da)
While primarily meaning “to send,” the verb 보내다 (bo-nae-da) can also be used to express the concept of “letting go.” It is often used in relational contexts to imply releasing someone from a certain state. For example:
Example: 그 사람과 헤어져야 해. 그를 보내야 해. (Geu sa-ramgwa he-eo-jyeo-ya hae. Geu-reul bo-nae-ya hae.) – You have to break up with that person. You have to let him go.
3. 놔주다 (nwa-ju-da)
This informal phrase is an equivalent of “let go” and is commonly used in everyday conversations. It combines the verb for “let go” (놓다 – noh-da) with the verb 주다 (ju-da), which means “to give.” Here’s an example:
Example: 그 문제에 대해 그냥 놔줘. (Geu mun-je-e dae-hae geu-nyang nwa-jwo) – Just let go of that issue.
Formal Ways to Say “Let Go”
1. 놓으세요 (noh-eu-se-yo)
To express “let go” formally or politely, you can use the verb 놓으세요 (noh-eu-se-yo), which adds the -으세요 (-eu-se-yo) honorific ending. This form is typically used when speaking to someone older, in a professional setting, or to show respect. For example:
Example: 한 번 놓으세요. (Han beon no-eu-se-yo.) – Please let go once.
2. 놓으십시오 (noh-eu-ship-si-o)
This formal version of “let go” is even more polite and respectful. It uses the verb 놓다 (noh-da) with the formal ending -으십시오 (-eu-ship-si-o). It is suitable for formal occasions or when speaking to superiors or elders. For example:
Example: 이 지점에서 손을 놓으십시오. (I ji-jeom-e-seo son-eul no-eu-ship-si-o.) – Please let go of my hand at this point.
Regional Variations
While most Koreans understand the aforementioned phrases, it is important to note that regional variations and dialects exist. Here are a couple of notable examples:
1. 둘러놓다 (dul-leo-noh-da)
This phrase, which includes the verb 둘러놓다 (dul-leo-noh-da), can be used instead of 놓다 (noh-da) in a specific regional variation of Korean. It implies letting go or releasing someone or something. For example:
Example: 손을 둘러놓아 주세요. (Son-eul dul-leo-noh-a ju-se-yo.) – Please let go of my hand.
2. 놓아버리다 (no-ah-beo-ri-da)
In some regional dialects, specifically Chungcheong and parts of Gyeongsang, the phrase 놓다 (noh-da) is replaced by 놓아버리다 (no-ah-beo-ri-da), which emphasizes the completion of letting go. Here’s an example:
Example: 내 마음을 놓아버려. (Nae ma-eum-eul no-ah-beo-ryeo.) – Let go of my heart entirely.
Tips for Proper Usage
1. Pay attention to verb endings: To convey various levels of politeness, it’s crucial to use the appropriate verb endings, as shown in the examples above.
2. Consider the context: The way you say “let go” can vary depending on the situation and the relationship between the speakers. Be mindful of the formality and nuances required.
3. Practice pronunciation: It’s important to not only learn the words but also practice their pronunciation to ensure clear communication. Listen to native Korean speakers or use language-learning resources to sharpen your skills.
Now that you have learned the informal and formal ways to say “let go” in Korean, you can confidently navigate conversations and express yourself appropriately. Remember to consider the context and the relationship with the person you’re speaking to for accurate usage. With practice and understanding, you’ll become more fluent in Korean and improve your overall communication skills!
