Greeting someone and asking what they are doing is a common way to start a conversation. In Korean, there are various ways to ask this question, depending on the level of formality and regional differences. In this guide, we will explore both formal and informal ways to ask “What are you doing?” in Korean. Whether you want to engage in casual conversations with friends or maintain a respectful tone in professional settings, we’ve got you covered!
Table of Contents
1. Formal Ways
When speaking to someone older or in a formal setting, it’s important to use honorific language to show respect. Here are a few ways to ask “What are you doing?” formally:
1. 어떻게 지내세요? (eotteoke jinaeseyo?)
This phrase translates to “How are you?” in English, but it can also be used to ask what someone is currently doing in a polite manner.
2. 무슨 일을 하고 계세요? (museun ireul hago gyeseyo?)
This phrase directly translates to “What work are you doing?” and is commonly used in formal situations when asking about someone’s activities.
These formal expressions are perfect for respectful conversations with seniors, colleagues, or strangers you meet in professional settings.
2. Informal Ways
In more relaxed settings, such as among friends or peers, you can use less formal language to ask “What are you doing?” Here are a couple of examples:
1. 뭐 해? (mwo hae?)
This simple yet colloquial phrase can be used with friends or people around your age. It directly translates to “What are you doing?” in English.
2. 지금 뭐하고 있어? (jigeum mwohago isseo?)
This expression translates to “What are you doing right now?” and is often used among friends to ask about their current activities.
By using these informal phrases, you can strike up casual conversations and effortlessly connect with Korean speakers in everyday situations.
3. Regional Variations
While the formal and informal expressions mentioned above can be used across Korea, it’s worth noting that there might be slight regional variations in how people ask “What are you doing?” Here are a couple of examples:
1. 뭐하까? (mwohakka?)
This phrase is commonly used in the Gyeongsang region of South Korea to ask “What are you doing?” in a casual tone.
2. 머함? (meoham?)
This expression is frequently heard in the Jeolla region as a substitute for “What are you doing?” among friends.
While regional variations exist, using the formal and informal expressions mentioned earlier will help you navigate conversations throughout Korea.
Tips for Using “What Are You Doing?” in Korean
Here are a few essential tips to keep in mind when using these expressions:
- Pay attention to the level of formality based on the person you are speaking to and the context of the conversation.
- When using formal expressions, make sure to use respectful speech endings such as “-세요” (-seyo).
- Informal expressions can be adjusted by adding polite endings like “-요” (-yo) to maintain a slightly more polite tone.
- Practice pronouncing the phrases correctly to ensure clear communication.
- When in doubt, it’s always safer to use a slightly more formal expression to show respect.
Remember, learning how to ask “What are you doing?” in Korean is just the beginning. Building vocabulary and understanding cultural nuances will help you have more meaningful conversations with Korean speakers.
Now that you have a range of expressions at your disposal, don’t hesitate to strike up conversations and explore the beautiful language and culture of Korea!
