Welcome to this comprehensive guide on how to say “photo” in Korean! In this article, we will explore the formal and informal ways to express this term in Korean, with additional information on regional variations. Whether you’re a traveler, language enthusiast, or simply curious about Korean culture, we’ve got you covered. Let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Say “Photo” in Korean
When speaking formally or in official settings, you can use the following Korean terms to refer to a “photo”:
1. 사진 (Sajin)
The most common and standard way to say “photo” in Korean is 사진 (sajin). This term is widely understood across all regions of Korea and is used in various contexts, including photography, technology, and everyday conversations. Example: 선생님, 저는 사진을 찍으려고 카메라를 사왔어요. (Teacher, I bought a camera to take pictures.)
2. 액자 (Aekja)
Another formal way to refer to a “photo” in Korean is 액자 (aekja). Although 액자 primarily means “picture frame,” it can also be used to mention the photo itself, particularly when it is displayed or framed. Example: 할머니께서 사진을 액자에 넣으셨어요. (Grandma put the photo in the picture frame.)
Informal Ways to Say “Photo” in Korean
When you’re speaking informally with friends or peers, or in a casual setting, you can use these Korean expressions:
1. 사진 (Sajin)
Just like in formal settings, 사진 (sajin) can also be used informally. This versatile term is widely used in everyday conversations among friends and family members. Example: 너, 어제 사진 찍은 거 보여줄래? (Hey, can you show me the pictures you took yesterday?)
2. 꽂아둔 그림 (Kkochadun Geurim)
An informal way to refer to a “photo” in Korean is 꽂아둔 그림 (kkochadun geurim). This phrase literally means “a picture stuck” and is often used colloquially to describe a photo. Example: 윤호 오빠가 꽂아둔 그림을 볼래? (Do you want to see the pictures Yunho stuck?)
Regional Variations
While the terms mentioned above are widely used across Korea, it’s worth noting that certain regional variations exist:
1. 사진 (Sajin) – Gangwon Province Dialect
In the Gangwon Province dialect, people might use 사진 (sajin) with a slightly different pronunciation, adding a distinct local flavor to the term. Example: 사진보다 더 크니? (It’s bigger than a picture, isn’t it?)
2. 그림 (Geurim) – Jeolla Province Dialect
In the Jeolla Province dialect, the word 그림 (geurim), which primarily means “picture” or “drawing,” can also be used to refer to a “photo” in a casual context. Example: 저는 어제 그림 찍으랬어요. (They asked me to take a picture yesterday.)
Summary
We have covered both the formal and informal ways to say “photo” in Korean. In formal contexts, 사진 (sajin) and 액자 (aekja) are commonly used, while in informal settings, 사진 (sajin) and 꽂아둔 그림 (kkochadun geurim) are more appropriate.
Remember that 사진 (sajin) is the most versatile term and widely understood throughout Korea. However, if you encounter people from Gangwon Province or Jeolla Province, you may hear regional variations like the Gangwon pronunciation of 사진 or the use of 그림 in Jeolla.
Now go ahead and practice using these expressions to confidently communicate about “photos” in Korean! Happy exploring and capturing your precious moments!
