Welcome to our comprehensive guide on how to say “money” in South Korea! Whether you’re planning a trip to South Korea or simply interested in expanding your Korean vocabulary, this guide will provide you with a wide range of formal and informal terms to express “money.” We’ll also explore any regional variations that may exist. So, let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
Formal Terms for Money
When speaking formally in South Korea, you would typically use the term “money” as “돈” (don). This is the most commonly used and accepted word for “money” in formal situations.
Informal Terms for Money
In more informal contexts, South Koreans tend to use a variety of slang or expressions to refer to “money.” Here are some popular informal terms:
1. 금전 (geumjeon)
금전 is a slightly more formal slang term that is often used in informal conversations. It implies the concept of “financial resources” or “funds” instead of just “money” itself.
2. 땟돈 (ttaetdon)
땟돈 is an informal and colloquial term used to refer to “cash” or “spending money.” It is often used among friends or in casual conversations.
3. 물먹은 돈 (mulmeogeun don)
If you’re looking for a playful way to refer to “money,” you can use the term 물먹은 돈, which translates to “water-eaten money.” This expression is somewhat whimsical and not meant to be taken literally.
Regional Variations
Generally, the formal and informal terms mentioned above are commonly used throughout South Korea. However, it’s essential to note that there might be slight regional variations in informal terms or dialects within the country. While these variations might exist, they do not significantly impact the overall understanding of the term “money” in South Korea.
Tips and Examples
1. Using Formal Term:
If you’re in a formal setting or speaking with someone you should show respect to, you can use the term “돈” (don) as follows:
(Formal)
Person A: 이 제품은 얼마에요? (I jepumeun eolmayeyo?)
Person B: 이 제품은 아마 10만 원 정도 됩니다. (I jepumeun ama shipman won jeongdo dwemnida.)
Person A: 그렇군요. 많은 돈이 드네요. (Geureogunyo. Manheun doni deuneyo).
(Translation)
Person A: How much is this product?
Person B: This product is probably around 100,000 won.
Person A: I see. It’s quite expensive.
2. Using Informal Terms:
If you’re in a casual or informal setting, you can choose from the following examples:
Example 1:
(Informal)
Person A: 오늘 뭐 할까? (Oneul mwo halkka?)
Person B: 우리 땟돈 있는데 카페에 가볼까? (Uri ttaetdon itneunde kapee gaebolkka?)
Person A: 좋아, 좋은 생각이네! (Joa, joeun saenggakine!)
(Translation)
Person A: What do you want to do today?
Person B: We have some spending money, shall we go to a cafe?
Person A: Great, that’s a good idea!
Example 2:
(Informal)
Person A: 신발 사기에 돈이 많이 들겠다. (Sinbal sagie doni mani deulgetda.)
Person B: 애초에 물먹은 돈이 아까워. (Aechoe mulmeogeun doni akkawe.)
Person A: 맞아, 그래서 신중하게 결정해야 할 것 같아. (Maja, geulaeso sinjunghage gyeoljeonghaeya hal geot gata.)
(Translation)
Person A: Buying shoes would cost a lot of money.
Person B: It’s a waste of water-eaten money in the first place.
Person A: You’re right, so we should decide carefully.
Conclusion
Now that you have explored both formal and informal ways to say “money” in South Korea, you are better equipped to navigate various situations and converse effectively with locals. Remember to adapt your language depending on the formality of your interactions. South Korea offers a rich linguistic landscape, and incorporating these terms into your vocabulary will foster a deeper connection with the culture and its people. Enjoy your journey in discovering the many facets of the Korean language, and best of luck in your future conversations about money!
