Billy Go’s Beginner Korean Course | #40: How to Say ‘You’
How to Say 'You' in Korean
In this lesson, we learn how to say 'you' in Korean. We explore when it's not necessary to use 'you,' and when it is appropriate. We also learn about using names and titles to address people.
Using Names and Titles
- When addressing someone close who is similar in age or older, use their name followed by 씨 (ssi), which means Mr. or Mrs.
- Examples: 빌리 씨도 배고프세요? (Are you hungry too, Billy?) 현우 씨는 언어를 좋아하세요? (Do you like languages, Hyunwoo?) 올리버 씨는 한국어를 잘할 수 있으세요? (Can you speak Korean well, Oliver?)
- Use a person's title if they are the same age as you or older and not close with you.
- Examples: 선생님은 지금 바쁘세요? (Are you busy now, teacher?) 아버지도 요리를 잘하세요? (Do you also cook well, father?) 할머니는 오늘 은행에 가세요? (Are you going to the bank today, grandmother?)
Other Words for 'You'
- Use 그쪽 (geu-jjok) if addressing a stranger but try to find a better way to refer to them.
- Example: 그쪽 명함 좀 주시겠어요? (Could you give me your business card?)
- Avoid using 당신(dang-shin) directly with someone as it sounds rude. It can be used in speeches or print.
- Married couples might use 당신 to mean 'darling' or 'honey,' but it's not common.
- Example: 당신은 내 사랑입니다. (You are my love.)
Practice
- Fill in the blanks for each sentence using the previous information.
- Examples: 저는 한국어를 배우고 싶어요. 선생님도 한국어를 배우고 싶으세요? (Do you, teacher, also want to learn Korean?) 저는 목이 말라요. 빌리 씨도 목이 마르세요? (Are you thirsty too, Billy?) 저는 괜찮아요. 할머니는 괜찮으세요? (Are you okay, grandmother?)
Conclusion
- In future lessons, we'll learn more question words and how to say 'you' to close friends who are the same age as you or younger.
- Example: Stay tuned!