Learning how to say “sick” in Korean can be helpful when you find yourself in need of medical assistance or simply want to express that you’re feeling under the weather. In this guide, we will explore both formal and informal ways to say “sick” in Korean, providing you with tips, examples, and regional variations if necessary.
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Say Sick in Korean
In formal settings, such as speaking to older individuals or those who you are not acquainted with, it’s important to use polite language and expressions. Here are some formal ways to say “sick” in Korean:
1. 아프다 (apeuda) – This is the standard Korean term for “sick” and can be used in various formal situations.
2. 몸이 아프다 (momi apeuda) – Literally translating to “the body is sick,” this phrase is commonly used in formal settings to express illness.
3. 불편하다 (bulpyeonhada) – This term carries the meaning of feeling uncomfortable or unwell and can be used to convey a sense of sickness in a polite manner.
These formal expressions can be used in situations like speaking to a doctor, explaining your condition to a colleague, or talking to someone you respect. Remember to maintain a respectful tone and use the appropriate level of politeness.
Informal Ways to Say Sick in Korean
In more casual and familiar settings, such as speaking with friends or peers of the same age, it’s common to use informal language. Here are some informal ways to say “sick” in Korean:
1. 아파 (apa) – This is the shortened and more casual version of “아프다 (apeuda).” It is commonly used among friends and family.
2. 몸이 안 좋다 (momi an johda) – This expression translates to “the body is not good” and is a common way to informally say “sick” among friends or acquaintances.
3. 몸 상태가 안 좋다 (mom sangtaega an johda) – Meaning “the body condition is not good,” this phrase can also be used casually to express that you are feeling unwell.
When using these informal expressions, you can show a bit more familiarity and closeness with the person you are speaking to. However, it’s important to assess the context and relationship before using such language to ensure appropriateness.
Regional Variations
Korean is spoken in both South Korea and North Korea, and there can be slight regional variations in language usage. However, when it comes to expressing sickness, there are no significant regional differences. The formal and informal ways mentioned above can be used interchangeably in both South and North Korea.
Tips and Examples
Tips for Using these Expressions:
- Pay attention to the level of politeness required in each situation. Formal expressions should be used with those who are older, in positions of authority, or in formal settings.
- Use informal expressions with friends, family, or peers of the same age, as well as in casual settings.
- Adjust your tone and body language to match the level of politeness conveyed by the language you use.
Examples:
Example 1:
Situation: Speaking to an acquaintance
Formal: 불편하다 (bulpyeonhada)
Informal: 몸이 안 좋다 (momi an johda)
Person A: 저 오늘 조금 불편한데, 병원에 가보는 게 좋을까요? (I’m feeling a bit uncomfortable today, should I go to the hospital?)
Person B: 네, 그런데 지금 병원은 예약이 꽉 차서 다음주에 가는 게 좋을 것 같아요. (Yes, but the hospital is fully booked at the moment, so it might be better to go next week.)
Example 2:
Situation: Speaking to a close friend
Formal: 아프다 (apeuda)
Informal: 아파 (apa)
Friend A: 아파? 걱정되는데 의사에게 한번 봐봐. (Are you sick? I’m worried, why don’t you see a doctor?)
Friend B: 의사? 아직은 그렇게 심하지 않아. 좀 푹 쉬면 괜찮아질 거야. (A doctor? It’s not that serious yet. I’ll be fine with some rest.)
