Greetings and farewells are essential aspects of any language, and Korean is no exception. Knowing how to bid someone farewell is not only polite but also helps to establish meaningful connections. In this guide, we will explore how to say “until next time” in Korean, both formally and informally. We’ll provide you with various tips, examples, and regional variations if necessary.
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Formal Ways to Say “Until Next Time”
In formal situations, such as when addressing seniors, teachers, or strangers, it’s recommended to use more polite expressions. Here are some phrases you can use:
1. 다음에 뵙겠습니다 (Da-eum-e boepgetseumnida)
This is one of the most common phrases used to say “until next time” in formal settings. It combines the word “다음에” (da-eum-e), meaning “next time,” with the honorific verb “뵙다” (boepda), which means “to see” in a polite manner. Adding “습니다” (seumnida) to the verb makes it more formal and respectful. Altogether, it translates to “I will have the honor of seeing you again next time.” This phrase is suitable for professional and formal settings.
Example: After a business meeting, you can say “다음에 뵙겠습니다” (Da-eum-e boepgetseumnida) to your client or senior colleague to bid them farewell politely.
2. 다음에 만나요 (Da-eum-e mannayo)
This phrase is a bit less formal than the previous one but still appropriate for professional settings. “다음에” (da-eum-e) means “next time,” and “만나요” (mannayo) is the polite form of “meet.” Combined together, it translates to “Let’s meet next time.” This expression is commonly used among colleagues or acquaintances.
Example: When saying farewell to your co-worker, you can say “다음에 만나요” (Da-eum-e mannayo) with a warm smile.
Informal Ways to Say “Until Next Time”
In casual or informal situations, you can opt for less formal phrases. Here are some commonly used expressions:
1. 다음에 봐 (Da-eum-e bwa)
This is a straightforward and commonly used phrase to say “until next time” in an informal, friendly way. “다음에” (da-eum-e) means “next time,” and “봐” (bwa) is the casual form of “see.” When combined, it means “See you next time.” This phrase is widely used among friends or peers.
Example: When saying goodbye to your friend, you can casually say “다음에 봐” (Da-eum-e bwa) while waving your hand.
2. 다음에 보자 (Da-eum-e boja)
This expression is similar to the previous one but sounds a bit closer and friendly. “다음에” (da-eum-e) still means “next time,” while “보자” (boja) is the casual form of “let’s see.” Combined together, it translates to “Let’s meet next time.” It is commonly used among close friends or people of similar age.
Example: After spending time with your classmates, you can suggest meeting again by saying “다음에 보자” (Da-eum-e boja) enthusiastically.
Regional Variations
Korean is spoken in both North and South Korea, and there can be slight variations in regional expressions. However, “다음에 뵙겠습니다” (Da-eum-e boepgetseumnida) and “다음에 봐” (Da-eum-e bwa) are widely understood and accepted throughout the Korean-speaking world. These phrases are generally appropriate for all situations.
Tips for Saying “Until Next Time”
If you want to enhance your farewell greetings and sound more natural, here are a few additional tips:
- Accompany your words with a warm smile and appropriate body language.
- Consider the context and the relationship you have with the person you’re saying goodbye to; adjust your level of formality accordingly.
- Use honorific language (ending verbs with “-습니다” or “-요”) in formal settings or when speaking to strangers.
- Always show respect towards elders or people in higher positions by using more polite expressions.
Now that you have learned different ways to say “until next time” in Korean, you can confidently engage in meaningful goodbyes and establish stronger connections. Practice these phrases with friends, colleagues, or locals, and you’ll surely leave a positive impression. Remember, learning the cultural nuances of a language is just as important as mastering the vocabulary and grammar.
