엄마, 사랑해요
eomma, saranghaeyo
The English phrase "mom, I love you" is translated into Korean as 엄마, 사랑해요 (eomma, saranghaeyo).
This phrase is used to express affection and love toward one's mother.
Which one should you use?
The phrase 엄마, 사랑해 is a more casual and intimate version of the standard expression. Conversely, using 어머니 instead of 엄마 makes the address more formal and respectful.
How does it change in a sentence?
In the phrase 사랑해요, the suffix -해요 indicates a polite level of speech that is suitable for most standard social interactions.
How do you pronounce it?
eomma, saranghaeyo
Did you know?
- Korean has a specific word, 정 (jeong), to describe the deep, sticky emotional bond and attachment between family members. While 사랑 means 'love', 정 represents the lifelong connection that makes 엄마, 사랑해요 meaningful.
- The word 엄마 is an example of baby talk that persists into adulthood. While 어머니 is the proper term for 'mother', most Korean adults continue to call their mothers 엄마 in private.
- In traditional Korean culture, directly saying 사랑해요 to a parent was historically considered awkward or overly bold. Many children expressed love through actions or the phrase 감사해요, meaning 'thank you', instead.
Examples in context
- 엄마, 사랑해요.eomma, saranghaeyo.Mom, I love you.
- 진심으로 엄마, 사랑해요.jinsimeuro eomma, saranghaeyo.Mom, I truly love you.
Example conversation
A son calls his mother on her birthday.
- 도현 Do-hyeon엄마, 사랑해요! 생일 축하해요.eomma, saranghaeyo! saengil chukahaeyo.Mom, I love you! Happy birthday.
- 수빈 Su-bin고마워, 도현아. 사랑한다.gomawo, dohyun-a. saranghanda.Thank you, Dohyun. I love you.
- 도현 Do-hyeon선물 보냈어요. 꼭 확인하세요.seonmul bonaesseoyo. kkok hwaginhaseyo.I sent a gift. Please make sure to check it.
- 수빈 Su-bin그래, 정말 고맙다.geurae, jeongmal gomapda.Okay, thank you so much.
