Gaining proficiency in a new language is an exciting journey. Whether you’re planning a trip to Korea or simply interested in delving into the Korean culture, learning how to express yourself in various scenarios is crucial. In this guide, we will explore how to say “What are you looking at?” in Korean, considering both the formal and informal ways of expression.
Table of Contents
1. Informal Way
When conversing with friends, family, or peers, the informal way of saying “What are you looking at?” in Korean is:
“뭐 보고 있어?” (mwo bogo isseo?)
This phrase can be broken down as follows:
- 뭐 (mwo): Equivalent to “what” in English.
- 보고 (bogo): Derived from the verb “보다” (boda), meaning “to look at.”
- 있어? (isseo?): Equivalent to “are you” in English.
Therefore, when asking this question informally, you are essentially saying, “What are you looking at?” directly translated.
2. Formal Way
When speaking to someone who is older, in a higher position, or whom you are not familiar with, it is essential to use a more respectful tone. To say “What are you looking at?” formally in Korean, you should use the following phrase:
“뭐 보고 계세요?” (mwo bogo gyeseyo?)
The breakdown of the formal expression is as follows:
- 뭐 (mwo): Meaning “what.”
- 보고 (bogo): Derived from “보다” (boda), meaning “to look at.”
- 계세요? (gyeseyo?): Equivalent to “are you” in English when used with a respectful tone.
By using this phrase, you are asking, “What are you looking at?” while maintaining a respectful tone suitable for formal situations.
3. Additional Tips
Here are a few tips to enhance your understanding and usage of this phrase:
3.1 Regional Variations
While the informal and formal expressions provided above are widely used throughout Korea, it’s worth noting that there might be slight regional variations. These variations could involve dialects or adaptations of the phrase. When interacting with locals, it can be helpful to familiarize yourself with the specific regional expressions.
3.2 Non-Verbal Communication
Keep in mind that non-verbal cues play a significant role in communication. In Korea, eye contact can be considered more intense and direct compared to some other cultures. Therefore, it is important to be aware of cultural nuances and adjust your non-verbal communication accordingly.
3.3 Practice Makes Perfect
As with any language, practice is key to improving your skills in Korean. Make an effort to incorporate the phrases you learn into your daily conversations. Practice with native speakers or through language exchange programs, where you can receive valuable feedback and further refine your pronunciation and usage.
4. Examples
Here are a few examples of how to use the phrases “뭐 보고 있어?” (informal) and “뭐 보고 계세요?” (formal) in various contexts:
- Informal:
- Friendly conversation: A: “뭐 보고 있어?” B: “그냥 유튜브 동영상을 보고 있어.” (I’m just watching YouTube videos.)
- Curiosity: A: “뭐 보고 있어?” B: “아무 것도 아니야, 그냥 바깥 경치를 바라보고 있었어.” (Nothing, I was just looking at the scenery outside.)
- Formal:
- Paying respect to an elder: A: “뭐 보고 계세요?” B: “저는 그림을 감상하고 있습니다.” (I am appreciating the painting.)
- Polite inquiry: A: “뭐 보고 계세요?” B: “책을 읽고 있었습니다.” (I was reading a book.)
Remember, mastering a new language takes time and continuous effort. Embrace the learning process, and don’t be afraid to make mistakes. Learning how to express yourself in different situations brings you closer to understanding the Korean culture and connecting with its people.
Practice these phrases, observe cultural nuances, and soon you’ll find yourself confidently asking “뭐 보고 있어?” or “뭐 보고 계세요?” in Korean. Best of luck with your language-learning journey!
