이야기하기
iyagihagi
The English phrase "talking" is translated into Korean as 이야기하기 (iyagihagi).
이야기하기 refers to the act of speaking with someone to exchange information or ideas.
Which one should you use?
While 이야기하기 implies a conversation or exchanging stories, 말하기 focuses more on the physical act of speaking or the ability to use words.
How does it change in a sentence?
To express the continuous action of talking (the present progressive), use the form 이야기하고 있다.
How do you pronounce it?
iyagihagi
Did you know?
- The expression 말을 걸다 literally means 'to hang a word', but it is the standard way to say 'to start a conversation' or 'to strike up a talk'.
- Depending on who you are talking to, the verb used for talking changes entirely. You would use 말씀하시다 instead of 이야기하다 when referring to a superior's act of speaking.
- If you are 'talking' about someone behind their back, Koreans often use the expression 뒷담화하다 instead of a variation of 이야기하다.
Examples in context
- 선생님과 대화하고 싶어요.I want to talk to the teacher.
- 사장님께서 말씀하십니다.The CEO is talking.
- 친구와 말하면서 즐거운 시간을 보냈어요.I had a great time talking with my friend.
- 이야기하다가 농담을 했어요.We were talking when we made a joke.
Example conversation
Jihoon and Seoyeon are discussing their hobbies.
- 지훈 Ji-hun서연 씨는 취미가 뭐예요?seoyeon ssineun chwimiga mwoyeyo?Seoyeon, what is your hobby?
- 서연 Seo-yeon저는 사람들과 이야기하기를 좋아해요.jeoneun saramdeulgwa iyagihagireul joahaeyo.I like talking with people.
- 지훈 Ji-hun정말요? 저도 그래요.jeongmalyo? jeodo geuraeyo.Really? Me too.
- 서연 Seo-yeon그럼 우리 더 이야기해요.geureom uri deo iyagihaeyo.Then let's talk more.
