도련님
doryeonnim
The English phrase "young master" is translated into Korean as 도련님 (doryeonnim).
도련님 is a respectful term used by domestic staff or subordinates to address the unmarried son of a high-status or wealthy family.
Which one should you use?
The term 도련님 is specifically used for an unmarried son. Once the son marries, he is typically addressed by a different title, such as 서방님 or by his specific rank.
How do you pronounce it?
doryeonnim
Did you know?
- In a modern family setting, a woman uses 도련님 to refer to her husband's unmarried younger brother. This means a word that once signaled strict class hierarchies is now a standard term for specific family relations.
- Applying 도련님 to someone who is not high-status is often used as a sarcastic way to call them spoiled or arrogant.
- Using 도련님 toward a stranger in a modern city would make you sound like a character who stepped out of a historical period drama.
Examples in context
- 도련님, 식사 준비되었습니다.Doryeonnim, siksa junbi deoeotseumnida.Young master, your meal is ready.
- 도련님은 어디에 계시나요?Doryeonnimeun eodie gyesinayo?Where is the young master?
- 도련님께 드릴 선물을 샀어요.Doryeonnimkke deuril seonmureul sasseoyo.I bought a gift to give to the young master.
Example conversation
A domestic helper speaks to a wealthy son at home.
- 현우 Hyeon-woo도련님, 무엇을 도와드릴까요?doryeonnim, mueoseul dowa-deurilkkayo?Young master, how can I help you?
- 민지 Min-ji내 방 좀 청소해 주세요.nae bang jom cheongso-hae juseyo.Please clean my room.
- 현우 Hyeon-woo네, 도련님. 바로 하겠습니다.ne, doryeonnim. baro hagesseumnida.Yes, young master. I will do it right away.
- 민지 Min-ji고마워요. 수고하세요.gomawoyo. sugo-haseyo.Thank you. Keep up the good work.
