Whether you are a K-drama enthusiast, an avid traveler in South Korea, or simply interested in learning the Korean language, knowing how to say “seriously” in Korean can greatly enhance your conversational skills. In this guide, we will explore various ways to express “seriously” in both formal and informal settings. Let’s dive right in!
Table of Contents
Formal Expressions for “Seriously”
When you want to convey a sense of seriousness in a formal or polite manner, the following expressions can be used:
- 진지하게 (jin-ji-ha-ge): This is the standard term for “seriously” in Korean. It is often used in formal situations and during serious conversations.
- 진심으로 (jin-sim-eu-ro): This expression emphasizes sincerity. It is commonly used when you want to convey the seriousness of your thoughts or feelings.
- 진지한 태도로 (jin-ji-han tae-do-ro): Translated as “with a serious attitude,” this phrase is useful when emphasizing serious behavior or actions that are required.
Informal Ways to Say “Seriously”
If you are conversing with friends, family, or in a casual setting, the following informal expressions for “seriously” can be used:
- 진짜 (jin-jja): This is the most commonly used informal way to say “seriously” in Korean. It can be used both playfully and seriously, depending on the context.
- 잔심 (jan-sim): Similar to “seriously” or “for real,” this expression is often used among close friends to convey sincerity or disbelief in a lighthearted manner.
- 진자 (jin-ja): This informal variant of “진짜 (jin-jja)” is used mainly in spoken language. It has the same meaning and is a more relaxed way of saying “seriously.”
Tips and Examples:
1. Varying Intensity: Keep in mind that the intensity of the word “seriously” can change based on tone, context, and relationship. What might be appropriate among close friends may not be suitable in a formal setting.
2. Use Body Language: Pair your expressions with appropriate body language to reinforce the meaning. Maintain eye contact, use facial expressions, and appropriate gestures to convey seriousness.
Formal Examples:
1. 우리는 이 문제를 진지하게 다루어야 합니다. (oo-ri-neun i mun-je-reul jin-ji-ha-ge da-ru-eo-ya ham-ni-da.)
(We need to handle this issue seriously.)2. 저는 진심으로 당신을 믿습니다. (jeo-neun jin-sim-eu-ro dang-sin-eul mid-seub-ni-da.)
(I genuinely trust you.)3. 상황에 따라 진지한 태도로 대처해야 합니다. (sang-hwang-e tta-ra jin-ji-han tae-do-ro dae-cheo-hae-ya ham-ni-da.)
(You should handle the situation with a serious attitude.)
Informal Examples:
1. 진짜? 그게 사실이야? (jin-jja? geu-ge sa-sil-i-ya?)
(Seriously? Is that true?)2. 잔심이 들어서 너무 신기해. (jan-si-mi deul-eo-seo neo-mu sin-gi-hae.)
(I can’t believe it, seriously!)3. 진자, 농담하지 마. (jin-ja, nong-dam-ha-ji ma.)
(Seriously, don’t joke around.)
By using these phrases in the appropriate contexts, you’ll be able to effectively express “seriously” in Korean while navigating through a wide range of social situations.
Remember, the key lies in practicing these expressions regularly, observing native Korean speakers, and gradually incorporating them into your conversations. Korean language and culture can be complex, but with dedication and a warm-hearted approach, you’ll soon develop the skills to express yourself fluently.
Happy learning!
