어머나
eomeona
The Korean phrase for "oh my" is 어머나 (eomeona).
어머나 is used to express surprise, shock or dismay. It is typically used by women.
Which one should you use?
The phrase 어머나 세상에 can be used to increase the intensity of the surprise. This is similar to saying "oh my goodness" or "oh my world" in English.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
The shortened form 어머 is more commonly used in casual conversation than the full version 어머나.
How do you pronounce it?
eomeona
When do people say it?
In most social contexts, men do not typically use 어머나. If you want to convey a sense of awe or astonishment similar to "Wow!" or "Amazing!", you might instead use the term Daebak.
Did you know?
- While 어머나 is traditionally used by women, men may use it ironically or in a playful way to mimic a feminine tone in comedies and variety shows.
- In Korean dramas, a character saying 어머나 while covering their mouth with a hand is a classic visual trope to signal 'feminine' modesty and shock.
- The shortened version 어머 can sometimes function as a way to start a sentence when someone is about to share gossip or surprising news.
Examples in context
- 어머나, 깜짝이야!eomeona, kkamjjagiya!Oh my, you scared me!
- 어머나, 세상에!eomeona, sesange!Oh my, oh my goodness!
- 어머나, 정말 예쁘네요.eomeona, jeongmal yeppeuneyo.Oh my, it is really pretty.
Example conversation
Seoyeon and Jihun are looking at a beautiful flower in the park.
- 서연 Seo-yeon어머나, 이 꽃 좀 보세요!eomeona, i kkot jom boseyo!Oh my, look at this flower!
- 지훈 Ji-hun정말 색깔이 화려하네요.jeongmal saekkkari hwaryeohaneyo.The color is truly vibrant.
- 서연 Seo-yeon지훈 씨, 정말 아름답지 않아요?Jihun ssi, jeongmal areumdapji anayo?Jihun, isn't it beautiful?
- 지훈 Ji-hun네, 정말 멋진 풍경이에요.ne, jeongmal meotjin punggyeongieyo.Yes, it is a wonderful view.
