Expressing gratitude is an essential part of Korean culture, and properly thanking someone for their time is considered a kind gesture. Whether you want to thank someone formally or informally, in this guide, we will explore various ways to say “thank you for your time” in Korean. We’ll also provide tips, examples, and regional variations that may be helpful in different situations.
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Formal Ways to Say Thank You for Your Time in Korean
When expressing gratitude formally, it is crucial to use polite language and honorifics in Korean. Here are a few common phrases you can use:
1. 감사합니다 (kamsahamnida)
This is the most common way to say “thank you” formally in Korean. It is a versatile expression that can be used in various situations, including thanking someone for their time.
2. 시간 내주셔서 감사합니다 (sigan naejusyeoseo kamsahamnida)
This phrase specifically acknowledges the person for allocating their time for you. It shows respect and gratitude for the effort they made by adjusting their schedule.
3. 시간내주신 것에 감사드립니다 (sigan naejusin geose kamsadeurimnida)
This phrase also thanks the individual for giving their time. It expresses gratitude in a more formal and respectful manner.
Informal Ways to Say Thank You for Your Time in Korean
When speaking informally to friends, family, or close acquaintances, you can use less formal language. Here are a few common phrases for expressing gratitude more casually:
1. 고마워 (gomawo)
This is the informal way to say “thank you” in Korean. It is commonly used among friends and family members and can also be used to thank someone for their time.
2. 시간 내줘서 고마워 (sigan naejwoseo gomawo)
Similar to the previous phrase, this expression explicitly thanks the person for giving their time. It can be used between friends or in informal settings.
3. 시간 내줘서 정말 고마워 (sigan naejwoseo jeongmal gomawo)
By adding the word 정말 (jeongmal), meaning “really” or “truly,” you emphasize your gratitude. This informal phrase conveys a deeper appreciation for the person’s time.
Regional Variations
While the phrases mentioned above are widely used throughout Korea, there may be some regional variations when it comes to expressing gratitude. Here are a few examples:
1. 알찼어 (alchasseo)
This phrase is mainly used in the Busan region and is the informal equivalent of “고마워” (gomawo). It conveys a similar meaning and expresses gratitude for someone’s time.
2. 고마워요 (gomawoyo)
In Seoul and the surrounding areas, people often use “고마워요” (gomawoyo) as an alternative to the informal “고마워” (gomawo). The additional 요 (yo) at the end makes it slightly more polite.
Tips and Examples:
Tips:
- When expressing gratitude in Korean, it is important to maintain a warm and sincere tone.
- Consider the level of formality required based on the relationship or social setting.
- Always use honorifics when addressing someone older or of higher status.
- If you are unsure about the appropriate level of formality, it is generally safer to lean towards a more polite expression.
Examples:
Example 1:
Person A: “Thank you for meeting me today. I appreciate your time.”
Person B: Formal response – “감사합니다 (kamsahamnida).”
Example 2:
Person A: “Thanks for helping me with my project. You’re the best!”
Person B: Informal response – “고마워 (gomawo)!”
Example 3:
Person A: “You went out of your way to make this happen. I’m truly grateful.”
Person B: Informal response – “정말 고마워 (jeongmal gomawo)!”
Example 4:
Person A: “I really appreciate the time you’ve given me. Thank you so much.”
Person B: Formal response – “시간내주신 것에 감사드립니다 (sigan naejusin geose kamsadeurimnida).”
