Welcome to this comprehensive guide on how to express that something is cool in Korean! In this article, we’ll explore various formal and informal ways to convey this sentiment, while also touching upon any regional variations if necessary. Whether you’re a K-pop fan, traveling to Korea, or just interested in the language, these phrases will help you express your admiration for something in the coolest way possible!
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Formal Ways to Say Something is Cool
When it comes to using formal language in Korean, it’s important to show respect. Here are a few phrases you can use to show your admiration for something in a more sophisticated manner:
1. 멋있습니다 (Mots-iss-seum-ni-da)
This phrase is a formal way to say “It is cool” or “That’s cool” in Korean. 멋있습니다 (Mots-iss-seum-ni-da) conveys a sense of elegance and style, making it suitable for formal situations. If you’re complimenting someone’s artwork, fashion sense, or any polished aspect, this phrase is perfect to express your appreciation.
Example:
Your friend shows you a well-dressed couple in a magazine. You can respond by saying, “그들은 정말 멋있습니다” (Geu-deul-eun jeongmal mots-iss-seum-ni-da), which means “They look really cool.”
2. 가장 멋있어요 (Ga-jang Mots-isseo-yo)
If you want to emphasize that something or someone is the coolest or the most impressive, you can use 가장 멋있어요 (Ga-jang mots-isseo-yo). This construction adds the superlative marker “가장” (ga-jang) to the phrase, providing an extra level of admiration.
Example:
When you see an astounding performance, you can say “이번 공연은 가장 멋있어요” (I-beon gong-yeon-eun ga-jang mots-isseo-yo), which means “This performance is the coolest.”
Informal Ways to Say Something is Cool
Informal language is commonly used among friends, peers, or when expressing excitement. Here are a few informal phrases you can use when you want to express that something is cool:
1. 멋있어 (Mots-iss-eo)
멋있어 (Mots-iss-eo) is a casual way of saying “It is cool” or “That’s cool” in Korean. It is commonly used in everyday conversations with friends, family, or people of similar age. This phrase allows you to express your admiration in a friendly and relaxed manner.
Example:
When your friend shows you their new car, you can respond with “와, 차 멋있어!” (Wa, cha mots-iss-eo), which means “Wow, the car is cool!”
2. 짱이야 (Jjang-i-ya)
If you want to express something as the coolest or the best using a more enthusiastically informal language, you can say 짱이야 (Jjang-i-ya). It carries a sense of excitement and is commonly used among peers.
Example:
When your friend invites you to a fantastic party, you can say “진짜? 그거 짱이야!” (Jinjja? Geu-geo jjang-i-ya), which means “Really? That sounds awesome!”
Wrap Up
Now that you’ve learned different ways to say something is cool in Korean, you can confidently express your admiration in both formal and informal situations. Remember, using the appropriate level of formality is essential in Korean culture to show respect and build harmonious relationships. Whether you’re in a casual conversation with friends or attending a formal event, these phrases will impress the locals and make you feel more connected to the vibrant Korean culture!
