Greetings! If you are eager to expand your Korean vocabulary and want to know how to express “to be slow” in Korean, you’ve come to the right place! In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the various ways to convey this sentiment using formal and informal speech. We’ll also dive into examples, regional variations, and provide useful tips. So, let’s get started!
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Say “To Be Slow”
If you prefer to use polite language or find yourself in a more formal situation, here are a few options:
1. 천천히 되다 (Cheon-cheon-hi doe-da)
천천히 되다 is a formal expression that directly translates to “to be slow.” This phrase is versatile and can be used in various contexts. For instance:
오늘 트래픽이 많아서 신호등이 천천히 됐어요. (On-neul teu-rae-pik-i man-a-seo shin-ho-deung-i cheon-cheon-hi dwae-sseo-yo.)
The traffic was slow today because the traffic lights were slow.
2. 느리게 하다 (Neu-ri-ge ha-da)
Another way to express slowness formally is through 느리게 하다. This phrase literally means “to be slow” or “to make slow.” Here’s an example:
그 프로그램은 컴퓨터를 느리게 해요. (Geu peu-ro-geu-ra-meun keom-pyu-teo-reul neu-ri-ge hae-yo.)
That program slows down the computer.
Informal Ways to Say “To Be Slow”
If you want to use casual language with friends, family, or in informal situations, consider these options:
1. 느려지다 (Neu-ryeo-ji-da)
느려지다 is a commonly used informal expression meaning “to become slow.” Take a look at an example:
핸드폰이 점점 느려져. (Haen-deu-pon-i jeom-jeom neu-ryeo-jyeo.)
My phone is getting slower.
2. 천천히 되다 (Cheon-cheon-hi doe-da)
As in formal speech, 천천히 되다 can also be used informally. This phrase remains the same regardless of the speech level. Here’s an example:
오늘 기차가 천천히 됐어. (On-neul gi-cha-ga cheon-cheon-hi dwae-sseo.)
The train was slow today.
Useful Tips and Regional Variations
Here are some additional tips and regional variations to consider:
1. Slower Tempo in Seoul Korean
In the Seoul dialect, native speakers tend to pronounce words with a slightly slower tempo compared to other regions. Consequently, even using general phrases for “to be slow” can convey the intended meaning.
2. Adverbs to Emphasize Slowness
You can further emphasize slowness by incorporating specific adverbs into your sentences. For example:
- 천천히 (Cheon-cheon-hi) – slowly
- 느리게 (Neu-ri-ge) – slowly, in a slow manner
- 점점 (Jeom-jeom) – gradually
3. Gestures and Body Language
In addition to words, gestures and body language can help convey the idea of slowness. Moving your body or hands in a slowed-down manner can assist in getting your message across clearly.
Final Thoughts
Congratulations! You’ve learned various ways to express “to be slow” in Korean. Remember, 천천히 되다 (cheon-cheon-hi doe-da) and 느리다 (neu-ri-da) are your go-to phrases for formal and informal situations, respectively. Supplement your expressions with adverbs, gestures, or body language to add emphasis. Whether you’re using Korean in Seoul or other regions, these phrases will help you convey the desired meaning accurately. Keep practicing, and soon you’ll master the art of discussing slowness in Korean!
