Korean Clock Pronunciation Guide187

Mastering the Korean language requires proficiency in both verbal and written communication. As you delve into the intricacies of the Korean language, you will encounter unique pronunciations and expressions that can challenge even advanced learners. Among these linguistic nuances, the pronunciation of time in Korean often poses difficulties for non-native speakers.

To navigate the Korean clock system and communicate time effectively, a comprehensive understanding of the pronunciation of time-related words is crucial. In this guide, we will break down the phonetic elements and provide precise pronunciations for the different time elements in Korean. We will also explore common expressions and scenarios related to time, equipping you with the necessary knowledge to confidently engage in conversations involving time.

Pronunciation of Hours (시)

The Korean word for "hour" is "시" (shi). It is pronounced with a short and crisp "i" sound, akin to the "i" in "sit." When pronouncing time in hours, the numbers are followed by "시." For example:
1 hour = 일시 (il-shi)
2 hours = 이시 (i-shi)
3 hours = 삼시 (sam-shi)
10 hours = 십시 (ship-shi)
12 hours = 십이시 (shib-i-shi)

Pronunciation of Minutes (분)

The Korean word for "minute" is "분" (bun). It is pronounced with a short and clear "u" sound, similar to the "u" in "put." When indicating minutes, the numbers are followed by "분." For example:
1 minute = 일분 (il-bun)
5 minutes = 오분 (o-bun)
10 minutes = 십분 (ship-bun)
li>30 minutes = 삼십분 (sam-ship-bun)
45 minutes = 사십오분 (sa-ship-o-bun)

Pronunciation of Seconds (초)

The Korean word for "second" is "초" (cho). It is pronounced with a short and sharp "o" sound, resembling the "o" in "hot." When expressing seconds, the numbers are followed by "초." For example:
1 second = 일초 (il-cho)
10 seconds = 십초 (ship-cho)
20 seconds = 이십초 (i-ship-cho)
60 seconds = 육십초 (yuk-ship-cho)

Pronunciation of Half and Quarter Hours

In addition to the standard pronunciation of hours and minutes, Korean also has specific terms for half and quarter hours. These expressions are commonly used in everyday conversations and can help you communicate time more precisely.
Half hour (30 minutes): 반 (ban). Pronounced with a short and clear "a" sound, similar to the "a" in "cat."
Quarter hour (15 minutes): 사분의 일 (sa-bun-ui-il). Pronounced with a clear "a" sound in "sa" and "bun," and a short "i" sound in "il."

Common Expressions and Scenarios

To fully grasp the practical application of Korean clock pronunciation, let's explore some common expressions and scenarios related to time:
What time is it? 몇 시입니까? (myeot shi-im-ni-kka?)
It's 3:30 PM. 지금 오후 삼시 삼십 분입니다. (ji-geum o-hu sam-shi sam-ship-bun-im-ni-da.)
I have a meeting at 9:00 AM tomorrow. 내일 아침 아홉 시에 회의가 있습니다. (nae-il a-chim a-hop shi-e hoe-ui-ga it-sum-ni-da.)
The store opens at 10:30 AM. 가게는 오전 십시 반에 엽니다. (ga-ge-neun o-jeon ship-shi ban-e yeop-ni-da.)
The train leaves at 12:15 PM. 기차는 오후 십이시 십오 분에 떠납니다. (gi-cha-neun o-hu ship-i-shi ship-o-bun-e tteo-nab-ni-da.)

By mastering the pronunciation of time-related words and familiarizing yourself with common expressions, you will enhance your ability to communicate effectively in Korean, navigate social situations, and fully immerse yourself in the Korean language.

2025-01-27

Previous：German Beverages: A Comprehensive Guide to Refreshing Delights

Next：How to Pronounce Pink in Korean: A Comprehensive Guide