-씨
-ssi[ɕ͈i]
The Korean equivalent of the English abbreviation "mr." can be expressed through several different forms. If unsure, use -씨 (-ssi). Wiktionary also lists -님 (-nim) and 미스터 (miseuteo).
Meaning: abbreviation of mister (noun)
Ways to say it
| Korean | Romanization (Wiktionary) | IPA |
|---|---|---|
| -씨 | -ssi | [ɕ͈i] (SK Standard, Seoul, narrow) |
| -님 | -nim | |
| 미스터 | miseuteo | [misʰɯtʰʌ̹] (SK Standard, Seoul, narrow) |
In Korean, the concept of "mister" is typically expressed by adding a suffix to a person's name rather than using a standalone title. The most common way to address someone is with -씨, while -님 provides a higher level of respect. The direct transliteration of the English word, 미스터, is considered dated.
Which one should you use?
While -씨 is a standard way to address someone, -님 is a more respectful and polite version used to show higher honor.
How does it change in a sentence?
The term -씨 is used as a suffix that is attached directly to a person's name or their full name.
How do you pronounce it?
-ssi
What mistakes should you avoid?
When using -씨, avoid attaching it only to a surname (such as Kim-ssi). It is much more natural and polite to use it with the person's full name or their given name.
Did you know?
- The suffix -님 is so versatile that it is often attached to nouns that are not even people, such as 'customer' or 'administrator'. This turns the noun into a highly respectful way to address the person in that role.
- The suffix -씨 shares its written form with the Chinese character 氏, which refers to a clan or a family name.
- In many Korean social settings, even if you know someone's name, it is often more polite to avoid using -씨 entirely and instead use their professional title, such as 'Manager' or 'Teacher'.
Example sentences for Korean are not verified yet.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “mr.” translations and entries -씨, 미스터, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries -씨, 미스터, CC BY-SA 4.0.
