In this guide, we will explore how to say “square” in Korean, covering both formal and informal expressions. Whether you’re planning to visit Korea, learning the language for business purposes, or simply interested in Korean culture, this guide will provide you with the necessary vocabulary and examples.
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Say Square in Korean
When speaking formally or in official settings, it’s important to use the appropriate vocabulary. Here are some formal expressions for the word “square” in Korean:
1. 광장 (gwangjang)
광장 (gwangjang) is the most common and widely used word for “square” in Korean. It is often used to refer to large public squares, such as city centers or gathering places.
Example:
광장에 사람들이 많이 모여 있습니다. (Gwangjange saramdeuri manhi moyeo itsseumnida.)
There are many people gathered in the square.
2. 사각형 (sagakhyeong)
사각형 (sagakhyeong) is the formal term for “square” used in geometry or mathematical contexts. It refers specifically to a four-sided polygon with equal sides and angles.
Example:
여기서 만든 사각형은 넓이가 같습니다. (Yeogiseo mandeun sagakhyeongeun neoliga gatseumnida.)
The squares made here have equal areas.
Informal Ways to Say Square in Korean
When speaking casually or among friends, you can use more informal expressions for “square” in Korean. Here are some commonly used words:
1. 정사각형 (jeongsagakhyeong)
정사각형 (jeongsagakhyeong) translates to “square” as in a shape with equal sides and angles. It is slightly more formal than the informal alternatives, but still used in everyday conversations.
Example:
이 가방은 정사각형인데 손에 들기 쉬워요. (I gabangeun jeongsagakhyeonginde sone deulgi swiwoyo.)
This bag is square-shaped, so it’s easy to hold in your hand.
2. 네모 (nemo)
네모 (nemo) is a casual and commonly used word for “square” among friends or in everyday conversations. It is derived from the Korean word 네모지다 (nemojida), which means “to be square.”
Example:
저 책의 페이지는 다 네모 돼 있어. (Jeo chaegui paeginen da nemo dwae isseo.)
All the pages in that book are square-shaped.
Regional Variations
Generally, the formal and informal expressions covered above are used across Korea. However, there may be slight regional variations or dialect words for “square” depending on the specific region. Here are a couple of examples:
1. 피라미드 (piramid)
In the Busan dialect, locals may use the word 피라미드 (piramid) to refer to a square. This usage is unique to the Busan region.
Example:
가사 문지기 친구는 광장을 ‘피라미드’라고 부른대요. (Gasa munjigi chinguneun gwangjangeul ‘piramid’rago bureudaeyo.)
My friend from Busan calls a square ‘피라미드’.
2. 사라 (sara)
In the Jeju dialect, locals may use the word 사라 (sara) to refer to a square. This usage is unique to the Jeju region.
Example:
우리 할아버지는 광장을 ‘사라’라고 부르세요. (Uri harabeoji-neun gwangjangeul ‘sara’rago bureuseyo.)
My grandfather calls a square ‘사라.’
It’s important to note that these regional variations are not widely known or used outside their respective regions, so it’s best to stick with the more commonly used terms unless you’re specifically interacting with locals from these areas.
Conclusion
In conclusion, we have explored various ways to say “square” in Korean, both formally and informally. We have covered the commonly used expressions such as 광장 (gwangjang) and 사각형 (sagakhyeong), as well as the more casual words 정사각형 (jeongsagakhyeong) and 네모 (nemo). We have also touched upon regional variations in Busan and Jeju. Remember to adjust your language usage based on the formality of the situation or the people you are interacting with. Happy learning!
