Guide: How to Say “Nervous” in Korean

Welcome to this comprehensive guide on how to express the feeling of “nervous” in the Korean language. Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced learner, this guide will help you understand the various ways to convey this emotion. We’ll explore both formal and informal phrases, and we’ll touch upon regional variations when necessary. By the end, you’ll have a solid understanding of how to express “nervous” in Korean, complete with useful tips and examples.

Formal Ways to Say “Nervous”

If you’re in a formal setting or speaking to someone older or of higher status, you can use the following expressions to convey the feeling of being nervous:

1. 긴장하다 (ginjanghada)

When you’re tense or anxious about a specific event or situation, you can use the verb 긴장하다. It is the most common formal way to express nervousness in Korean. For example:

시험이 다가오니까 너무 긴장돼요. (Sihemi dagaoonikka neomu ginjangdwaeyo.)

I’m getting really nervous as the exam approaches.

2. 신경 쓰이다 (singyeong sseuida)

Another formal expression is 신경 쓰이다, which translates to “to be concerned.” Use it when you feel worried or nervous about something. Here’s an example:

이번 발표가 너무 신경 쓰여요. (Ibeon balpyoga neomu singyeong sseoyeyo.)

I’m really nervous about this presentation.

Informal Ways to Say “Nervous”

When speaking with friends, family, or people of similar age and status, you can use the following more casual expressions to convey your nervousness:

1. 초조하다 (chojohada)

For a general sense of unease or anxiety, you can use the informal verb 초조하다. It can be used in various contexts to express nervousness. For example:

시작 전에 항상 조급하고 초조해요. (Sijak jeone hangsang jogeuphago chojohaeyo.)

I’m always anxious and nervous before starting.

2. 불안하다 (buranhada)

When you’re feeling uneasy or restless due to nervousness, 불안하다 is a fitting informal verb to use. Here’s an example of its usage:

지금 일이 너무 많아서 불안해. (Jigeum iri neomu manhaseo buranhae.)

I’m so nervous because I have too much work right now.

Regional Variations

In general, the phrases mentioned above are widely used throughout Korea, regardless of the region. However, it’s worth noting that there may be specific dialects that have slight variations in expressing nervousness. Such regional differences often rely on local vocabulary or pronunciation. If you’re learning Korean specific to a particular region, it may be helpful to explore any such variations.

Tips for Expressing Nervousness in Korean

When expressing nervousness in Korean, consider the following tips:

• Pay attention to honorifics: Ensure you use appropriate honorifics when speaking to someone of higher status or older age.
• Consider context: Choose the most appropriate word or expression based on the situation. Different words may convey slightly different nuances.
• Body language: In addition to verbal expressions, be mindful of your body language, as Koreans often rely on nonverbal cues to understand emotions.

Examples

To further solidify your understanding, here are a few additional examples of how to express nervousness in different contexts:

1. 오늘 면접이 있어서 긴장돼요. (Oneul myeonjeobi isseoseo ginjangdwaeyo.)

   I’m nervous because I have an interview today.

2. 내일 시험을 보기 전에 항상 초조하죠. (Naeil siheomeul bogi jeone hangsang chojohajyo.)

   I always feel nervous before taking an exam.

3. 사람들 앞에서 말하기가 너무 신경 쓰여요. (Saramdeul apeseo malhagiga neomu singyeong sseoyeyo.)

   I get really nervous speaking in front of people.

Remember, practice is key to mastering any language skill. Try using these expressions in different scenarios to become more comfortable expressing nervousness in Korean.