고맙습니다
gomapseumnidaformal, native word
In North Korean the usual way to say thank you is 고맙습니다 (gomapseumnida), built on the native word 고맙다 (gomapda). 감사합니다 (gamsahamnida) is also understood, and 고마워요 (gomawoyo) is polite and softer.
Meaning: expression of thanks (phrase)
Ways to say it
| Korean | Romanization | Note |
|---|---|---|
| 고맙습니다 | gomapseumnida | formal, native word |
| 고마워요 | gomawoyo | polite |
| 감사합니다 | gamsahamnida | formal, Sino Korean |
고맙습니다 is good for any situation, such as receiving help, a gift or a favor. Among friends you can say just 고마워 (gomawo).
Which one should you use?
고맙습니다 comes from a native Korean word and 감사합니다 from Chinese characters meaning "grateful thanks". Both are correct in the South as well, where 감사합니다 is very common.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
Use 고맙습니다 with elders and strangers, 고마워요 with people you know, and 고마워 with close friends.
Did you know?
- The native verb 고맙다 (gomapda) is the root of the common casual thanks 고마워 (gomawo).
Examples in context
- 선물 고마워요.seonmul gomawoyo.Thanks for the present.
- 정말 고마워.jeongmal gomawo.Thank you so much.
Example conversation
Tae-min thanks Mrs. Han for helping him carry his bags.
- Tae-min도와주셔서 고맙습니다.dowajusyeoseo gomapseumnida.Thank you for helping me.
- Mrs. Han별말씀을요.byeolmalsseumeuryo.You are welcome.
- Tae-min정말 고맙습니다.jeongmal gomapseumnida.Thank you very much.
