What‘s Up in Korean: A Guide to Saying “How Are You?“95

Saying "how are you" in Korean is a common way to greet someone and show that you care about them. There are several different ways to say it, depending on the formality of the situation and who you are speaking to. Here is a guide to help you say "how are you" in Korean like a native speaker.

Formal Way to Say "How Are You?"

The most formal way to say "how are you" in Korean is "어떻게 지내세요?" (eotteohge jinaeseyo?). This phrase is typically used in formal settings, such as when speaking to an elder, a superior, or a stranger. It is also used in written communication, such as letters and emails.

Informal Way to Say "How Are You?"

The most common way to say "how are you" in Korean is "어때요?" (eottaeyo?). This phrase is less formal than "어떻게 지내세요?" and can be used in most situations. It is typically used when speaking to friends, family, and colleagues.

Casual Way to Say "How Are You?"

The most casual way to say "how are you" in Korean is "뭐해?" (mwohae?). This phrase is typically used when speaking to close friends or family members. It is very informal and should not be used in formal settings.

Responding to "How Are You?"

When someone asks you "how are you" in Korean, there are several different ways to respond. Here are some of the most common responses:
"잘 지내요." (jal jinaeyo) - I'm doing well.
"괜찮아요." (gwaenchanaeyo) - I'm okay.
"그저 그래요." (geujeo geuraeyo) - I'm so-so.
"힘들어요." (himdeureoyo) - I'm having a hard time.
"별로예요." (byeoryeoeyo) - I'm not doing so well.

Tips for Saying "How Are You?" in Korean* When saying "how are you" in Korean, be sure to use the appropriate level of formality.
* If you are not sure which level of formality to use, it is always better to err on the side of caution and use a more formal phrase.
* When responding to "how are you," be honest about how you are feeling.
* If you are not feeling well, it is okay to say so.
* Koreans are generally very friendly and welcoming, so don't be afraid to say "hello" and "how are you" to people you meet.

2024-11-30

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