Hello and welcome to this guide on how to say “let me go” in Korean! In this article, we’ll explore both formal and informal ways of expressing this phrase, providing you with helpful tips and examples along the way. So, let’s get started!
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Formal Ways to Say “Let Me Go” in Korean
When speaking formally or politely in Korean, it is important to use appropriate honorifics and honorific verb forms. Here are a few ways to say “let me go” formally:
- “가능하시면 (koor-een) 보내 주세요 (bo-ne joo-se-yo)”
This phrase is a polite way to request someone to let you go. It can be used in various contexts, such as when asking a superior or someone older for permission to leave a place or situation.
“저, 일이 있어서 가 가능하시면 보내 주세요.” (Juh, eel-ee ee-suh-suh ka ga-neng-ha-sheo bo-ne joo-sae-yo)
Translation: “I have some work, so if it’s possible, please let me go.”
“피해 주시면 감사하겠습니다 (pee-he joo-shee-myun gam-sa-ha-get-sum-ni-da)”
In certain formal situations, you may want to express gratitude while requesting to be allowed to leave. This phrase combines politeness with a thankful tone.
“이제 가도 괜찮으신가요? 피해 주시면 감사하겠습니다.” (Ee-je ga-do gwaen-chanh-ooshin-ga-yo? Pee-he joo-shee-myun gam-sa-ha-get-sum-ni-da)
Translation: “Is it okay if I go now? I would be grateful if you let me go.”
“제가 먼저 가볼게요 (je-ga mun-juh ga-bol-ge-yo)”
This phrase is a polite way of saying “I will go ahead” or “I will leave first.” It can be used when you need to leave a formal gathering before others.
“모두들 아직 계속하실 거예요. 제가 먼저 가볼게요.” (Mo-doo-dul a-jik gye-sook-ha-shil guh-ye-yo. Je-ga mun-juh ga-bol-ge-yo)
Translation: “Everyone will still continue. I will go ahead.”
Informal Ways to Say “Let Me Go” in Korean
When speaking to friends, family, or people of similar age or status, a more informal way of expressing “let me go” can be used. Here are a few examples:
- “가도 돼? (ga-do dwae?)”
Sometimes, a simple and informal approach is sufficient. This phrase simply asks, “Can I go?” and is commonly used in casual conversations among friends.
“진짜 지루하니까 가도 돼?” (Jin-jja ji-ru-ha-ni-gga ga-do dwae?)
Translation: “It’s really boring, so can I go?”
“나 갈게 (na kalgae)”
Another informal way to say “let me go” is by using this phrase, which translates to “I will go.” It is a straightforward and casual way to express your intention to leave.
“아, 이제 말할 게 없으니까 나 갈게.” (A, ee-je mal-hal-ge eop-seu-ni-gga na kalgae)
Translation: “Ah, I have nothing more to say, so I will go.”
“내가 먼저 갈게 (nae-ga mun-juh kalge)”
If you want to informally say “I will go first,” this phrase is perfect. It is commonly used when leaving informal gatherings or situations.
“나, 오늘은 좀 피곤해. 내가 먼저 갈게.” (Na, o-neul-eun jom pi-gon-hae. Nae-ga mun-juh kalge)
Translation: “I’m a bit tired today. I will go first.”
Please remember that using honorifics, formal language, or informal language depends on the situation and the relationship between speakers. Always assess the context and familiarity level before choosing the appropriate way to say “let me go” in Korean.
In Summary
In this guide, we have covered both formal and informal ways to say “let me go” in Korean. Remember to consider the context and relationship between speakers when choosing the appropriate form. Here’s a quick summary of the phrases we discussed:
Formal:
- “가능하시면 보내 주세요”
- “피해 주시면 감사하겠습니다”
- “제가 먼저 가볼게요”
Informal:
- “가도 돼?”
- “나 갈게”
- “내가 먼저 갈게”
Remember, practicing these phrases in real-life situations will improve your Korean language skills and help you connect better with native speakers. Good luck!
~ The Korean Language Enthusiast
