see you later in korean

Guri Bee

2 min read

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20-10-2024

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Saying Goodbye in Korean: More Than Just "Annyeong"

Learning a new language often starts with basic greetings, and "hello" and "goodbye" are usually among the first phrases we learn. But in Korean, saying goodbye isn't as simple as just "annyeong" (안녕).

While "annyeong" is a versatile word meaning "hello" or "goodbye," there are many other ways to express farewell, each with its own nuance and formality. Let's explore some of these expressions, drawing from insights from the helpful community on GitHub.

1. Formal Farewells:

• "Annyeonghaseyo" (안녕하세요): This is the most formal way to say goodbye, and it's best used with elders or people in positions of authority. It literally translates to "Hello," but it also conveys a polite farewell.

• "Jal gyeseyo" (잘 계세요): This expression translates to "Take care" and is also used in formal situations. You can use it with your boss, teacher, or someone you don't know well.

• "Jal jineun geoseyo" (잘 지내세요): This means "Take care of yourself" and is another way to express a formal farewell. It's often used in situations where you expect to see the person again.

2. Informal Farewells:

• "Annyeong" (안녕): This is the most casual way to say goodbye and is used with friends and family. It's similar to saying "See ya" or "Bye" in English.

• "Jal jinae" (잘 지내): This is a more informal version of "Jal jineun geoseyo," and it's used with people you are close to. It means "Take care of yourself."

• "Jal jinae, gwaenchanha" (잘 지내, 괜찮아): This literally translates to "Take care, it's okay," and it's a way to express that you're not worried about them and hope they have a good time.

3. "See You Later" Equivalents:

• "Dashi mannaeyo" (다시 만나요): This translates to "See you again" and is a good way to express that you'll be seeing the person soon. It can be used in both formal and informal contexts.

• "Nareul gidaehae" (나를 기대해): This playful phrase means "Look forward to seeing me" and is best used with close friends.

• "Ittda bwa" (있다 봐): This means "See you around" and is a casual way to say goodbye. It's similar to saying "Catch you later" in English.

Beyond Words:

The way you say goodbye in Korean is also affected by your relationship with the person you are speaking to. In addition to using specific phrases, you can also use gestures and tone of voice to express your farewell.

For example, a slight bow is often used when saying goodbye to someone older or in a position of authority. You can also use a softer tone of voice when saying goodbye to someone you are close to, and a more formal tone when saying goodbye to someone you don't know well.

Conclusion:

Saying "goodbye" in Korean is much more nuanced than just using the word "annyeong." By learning some of the different expressions for farewell, you can show respect for your interlocutor and strengthen your communication skills.

Remember to practice these phrases and get comfortable using them in different contexts. With a little effort, you'll be saying goodbye in Korean like a pro in no time!