미안해
mianhaecasual
Biane is the short spoken form of 미안해 (mianhae), the casual Korean way to say "sorry". Use it with friends and family. For polite speech say 미안해요 (mianhaeyo), and in formal settings 죄송합니다 (joesonghamnida).
Meaning: apology (phrase)
Ways to say it
| Korean | Romanization | Note |
|---|---|---|
| 미안해 | mianhae | casual |
| 미안해요 | mianhaeyo | polite |
| 죄송합니다 | joesonghamnida | formal |
미안해 is an apology between equals or to younger people. Do not use it to a boss or a teacher, where 죄송합니다 is expected.
How do you pronounce it?
Say it as "mi-an-hae". Friends often shorten it to 미안 (mian).
What mistakes should you avoid?
The common spelling "mianhe" is not standard. The correct romanization is "mianhae".
Did you know?
- 미안해 and 죄송합니다 are both used in Korean dramas, but the choice shows whether the speaker is addressing a friend or a superior.
Examples in context
- 미안해, 내가 늦었어.Mianhae, naega neujeosseo.Sorry, I am late.
- 미안해요, 못 갈 것 같아요.Mianhaeyo, mot gal geot gatayo.Sorry, I do not think I can go.
- 죄송합니다, 제 실수입니다.Joesonghamnida, je silsuimnida.I am sorry, it was my mistake.
Example conversation
Jin arrives late to meet his friend Hyeon at a cafe.
- Jin미안해, 많이 기다렸어?Mianhae, mani gidaryeosseo?Sorry, did you wait long?
- Hyeon아니야, 괜찮아.Aniya, gwaenchana.No, it is okay.
- Jin고마워. 내가 커피 살게.Gomawo. Naega keopi salge.Thanks. I will buy the coffee.
