Welcome to this comprehensive guide on how to say “What are you saying?” in Korean. Whether you want to use a formal or informal approach, we’ve got you covered. Understanding the various ways to express this phrase will help you effectively communicate with native Korean speakers. Let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Say “What Are You Saying?”
When addressing someone in a polite or formal setting, such as with strangers, older individuals, or those in authoritative positions, you can use the following phrases to ask “What are you saying?” in Korean:
1. 무슨 말씀이세요? (Museun malsseum-iseyo?)
This is a highly respectful way to inquire about what someone is saying. It showcases your politeness and demonstrates proper decorum in formal situations.
2. 말씀하시는 것이 무엇인가요? (Malsseumhasineun geosi mueos-ingayo?)
Another formal option, this phrase translates to “What are you saying?” and is often used when speaking to someone of higher social status or authority.
Informal Ways to Say “What Are You Saying?”
For casual or informal situations, such as conversing with friends or peers of similar age, you can use the following expressions to ask “What are you saying?” in Korean:
1. 뭐라고? (Mworago?)
This is a commonly used informal phrase that can be translated to “What?” or “What did you say?” It’s casual and can be used among friends or acquaintances.
2. 뭐라는거야? (Mworaneungeoya?)
This informal phrase is similar to the previous one and is often used between close friends or people of similar age. It can be translated as “What are you saying?” or “What’s that you’re saying?”
Tips and Examples
To help you grasp these phrases better, here are some additional tips and examples:
Tips:
- Pay attention to your audience and the context before choosing a formal or informal phrase.
- Be mindful of the level of respect and politeness you want to convey.
- Non-verbal cues, such as tone of voice and body language, also play a crucial role in communication.
Examples:
Let’s explore a few examples to see how these phrases can be used:
- You’re talking to a respected senior or your boss:
You: 무슨 말씀이세요? (Museun malsseum-iseyo?)
Elder: 지금 일정 변경에 관한 사항이에요. (Jigeum iljeong byeonggae gwanhan sahangieyo.)
(Translation: What you’re saying has to do with a schedule change at the moment.)
You’re having a friendly conversation with a close friend:
You: 뭐라고? (Mworago?)
Friend: 방금 새로운 영화가 나온다고 했어. (Banggeum saeroun yeonghwaga naondago haesseo.)
(Translation: What did you say? I heard a new movie is coming out soon.)
Remember that language and culture are interconnected, so understanding the appropriate level of formality is vital to effective communication in Korean.
While regional variations exist, the phrases covered in this guide are widely used throughout South Korea. However, it’s important to note that language can differ slightly depending on the region, so it’s recommended to stick with the standard phrases provided.
Now armed with the knowledge of how to say “What are you saying?” in Korean, you’re ready to engage in polite conversations or casual chats with Korean speakers. Practice using the phrases and observe native speakers to further refine your understanding of their usage and intonation.
Enjoy your exploration of the Korean language and have fun communicating with new friends and acquaintances!
