우리 강아지
uri gang-aji
The English phrase "my dog" can be translated into Korean as 우리 강아지 (uri gang-aji).
The phrase is used to refer to a dog that belongs to the speaker or their family.
What does it mean word for word?
우리 means "our" and 강아지 literally means "puppy".
Which one should you use?
While 개 is the general word for "dog", using 우리 강아지 is much more common when speaking affectionately about one's own pet.
How do you pronounce it?
uri gang-aji
When do people say it?
Korean speakers often use the word for "our" (우리) instead of "my" (내/제) when referring to things that belong to the speaker or their family, such as a dog. Although 강아지 literally means "puppy", it is the most common and affectionate way to refer to a pet dog in general.
Did you know?
- While 강아지 means 'puppy', it is also used as a term of endearment for human children or grandchildren in some contexts.
- In Korean, the general word for 'dog' 개 can be used in several common idioms to describe someone who is shameless or stubborn.
- The use of 우리 ('our') instead of 내 ('my') reflects a traditional Korean cultural emphasis on collectivism and shared family identity over individual ownership.
Examples in context
- 나의 개는 사람들을 환영할 때 꼬리를 흔들어요.My dog wags its tail when welcoming people.
- 우리 개가 장난감을 좋아해요.Our dog loves toys.
- 우리 강아지 간식을 샀어요.uri gangaji gansigeul sasseoyo.I bought treats for my dog.
- 우리 강아지가 너무 보고 싶어요.uri gangajiga neomu bogo sipeoyo.I miss my dog so much.
Example conversation
Two friends are talking about their pets at a cafe.
- 민준 Min-jun수빈 씨는 강아지 키워요?Subin ssineun gangaji kiwoyo?Subin, do you have a dog?
- 수빈 Su-bin네, 우리 강아지 사진 보여줄까요?Ne, uri gangaji sajin boyeojulkkayo?Yes, shall I show you a photo of my dog?
- 민준 Min-jun와, 정말 귀여운 강아지네요!Wa, jeongmal gwiyeoun gangajineyo!Wow, what a cute dog!
- 수빈 Su-bin고마워요, 민준 씨.Gomawoyo, Minjun ssi.Thank you, Minjun.
