말하다
malhada[ˈma̠(ː)ɾɦa̠da̠]
To speak in Korean is 말하다 (malhada).
The verb is used to express the ability to communicate in a language. When specifically stating that one speaks a certain language, Korean speakers typically use the structure [Language] + 말 + 을/를 + 하다, such as 한국말을 하다 for "to speak Korean".
Meaning: to be able to communicate in a language (verb)
Which one should you use?
While 말하다 is the standard dictionary form, other versions are used depending on the level of respect and the setting. 말씀하시다 is an honorific form used specifically when describing the actions of a person of higher status, whereas 말씀드리다 is a formal way to speak that emphasizes politeness and deference toward a higher-status listener. For a more conversational and casual tone, 얘기하다 is used.
How does it change in a sentence?
The dictionary form 말하다 changes depending on the required politeness level: 말합니다 is used for formal settings or public speaking, 말해요 is the form for standard polite conversation and 말해 is the informal form used for casual speech.
How do you pronounce it?
malhada
Did you know?
- While 말하다 is the verb for 'to speak', the noun 말 is a homonym that also means 'horse'.
- In a linguistic context, the phrase 말문이 막히다 describes the feeling of being speechless, literally meaning that the 'speech-gate' has been blocked.
- In many Korean social settings, the person who is 'speaking' is often expected to minimize their own presence by using the humble form 말씀드리다 (malssumdeurida), which literally translates to 'giving my words' to a superior.
Examples in context
- 말씀하시려면 제게 언제든지 연락해 주세요.Please feel free to contact me whenever you want to speak.
- 말씀하신 대로 행동하겠습니다.I will act as you have spoken.
- 말씀드리고자 하는 내용이 있습니다.I have something to tell you.
- 저에게 말씀드리실 건 있으신가요?Do you have something to tell me?
- 너무 잘 말하네요!You speak very well!
- 그를 만나서 직접 말해 보세요.Try speaking to him directly when you meet him.
- 오늘 뭘 얘기할까요?What shall we talk about today?
- 친구들끼리 얘기하는 것은 중요합니다.It is important to talk among friends.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry 말하다, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
