Welcome to this comprehensive guide on how to say “Mummy” in Korean! Whether you want to address your mother, refer to someone else’s mother, or simply expand your Korean vocabulary, we’ll provide you with formal and informal ways to express this term. Let’s dive right in!
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Formal Way to Say “Mummy” in Korean
When you want to address your own mother or someone else’s mother formally in Korean, you can use the word “엄마” (eomma). This term is the most common and universally recognized way to say “mummy.” It is pronounced as “umm-mah.” For example:
엄마, 감기에 걸리지 않게 조심하세요.
Umma, gamgie geollini anke joshimhaseyo.
Mom, be careful not to catch a cold.
Informal Way to Say “Mummy” in Korean
If you are in a close relationship or among friends, a more casual term for “mummy” can be used. The word “엄마” (eomma) can still be used in an informal setting, but additional informal terms are also commonly used. Here are a few:
5 Informal Ways to Say “Mummy” in Korean
- 엄마님 (Eomma-nim): This term adds a sense of politeness and respect while still maintaining an informal tone. It is used when addressing someone else’s mother in a friendly way.
엄마님, 오늘 저녁 같이 식사해도 되겠어요?
Eomma-nim, oneul jeonyeok gachi siksa-haedo dwegesseoyo?
Mummy, can I have dinner with you tonight?
- 엄마씨 (Eomma-ssi): This term is similar to “엄마님” and can also be used to address someone else’s mother in an informal but polite manner.
엄마씨, 이거 선물로 드릴게요.
Eomma-ssi, ige seonmullo deurilgeyo.
Mummy, I’ll give you this as a gift.
- 엄마야 (Eomma-ya): This term is a more affectionate and cute way of saying “mummy.” It is used between close friends or family members.
엄마야, 오늘 나랑 영화 보러 갈래?
Eomma-ya, oneul nalang yeonghwa boreo gallae?
Mummy, do you want to go watch a movie with me today?
- 어머니 (Eomeoni): This term is a formal way to say “mummy” in Korean, but it can also be used informally as a respectful term of address between close friends.
어머니, 감기 조심하세요.
Eomeoni, gamgi joshimhaseyo.
Mummy, take care of yourself and avoid catching a cold.
- 엄 (Eom): This term is the shortest and most casual way to say “mummy” in Korean. It is used between very close friends or siblings.
엄, 맛있게 먹어.
Eom, masitge meogeo.
Mummy, enjoy your meal.
Dialectical and Regional Variations
While the aforementioned terms are understood throughout Korea, it’s worth noting that different regions might have their own unique variations or pronunciation styles. However, since the main objective of this guide is to provide you with widely recognized terms, we will not delve into regional variations in depth.
Wrap Up
By now, you have learned various ways to say “mummy” in Korean, both formally and informally. Use the term “엄마” (eomma) as the default go-to option, and feel free to explore the informal variations to express your affection or closeness. Remember, the context and your relationship with the person you are addressing will influence which term to use. Keep practicing, and don’t hesitate to address the mummies in your life using these newfound Korean expressions!
