Korean Apology Pronunciation329

Learning to pronounce Korean apologies correctly is essential for effective communication in Korean. Here's a guide to help you master the pronunciation of common Korean apologies and express your sincerity and regret appropriately.

1. 미안합니다 (mi-an-ham-ni-da)

This is the most common and versatile apology in Korean, used in various formal and informal situations. It translates to "I'm sorry" and is pronounced with a soft "m" and a stressed "a" in the second syllable.

2. 죄송합니다 (joe-song-ham-ni-da)

Similar to "미안합니다," this apology is also widely used and slightly more formal. It translates as "I apologize" and is pronounced with a clear "s" sound in the first syllable and a stressed "a" in the third syllable.

3. 실례했습니다 (sil-lye-haess-eum-ni-da)

This apology phrase is used when you have caused an inconvenience or offense to someone. It translates to "I've been discourteous" and is pronounced with a soft "l" in the first syllable and a stressed "a" in the third syllable.

4. 벌써요 (beol-sseo-yo)

This apology is used in situations where you have accidentally interrupted or disturbed someone. It translates to "I'm sorry to bother you" and is pronounced with a short "o" sound in the first syllable and a rising tone in the second syllable.

5. 뭐라고요? (mwo-ra-go-yo?)

When you didn't hear or understand something clearly, you can use this apology phrase to express your regret. It translates to "What did you say?" and is pronounced with a clear "m" in the first syllable and a rising tone in the third syllable.

6. 잠깐만요 (jam-kkan-man-yo)

This apology is used when you need to ask someone to wait or for a moment of patience. It translates to "Excuse me" or "Just a minute" and is pronounced with a short pause between the syllables.

7. 가만히 계세요 (ga-man-hi gye-se-yo)

Similar to "잠깐만요," this apology phrase is used to ask someone to stop or hold their position. It translates to "Stay still for a moment" and is pronounced with a stressed "a" in the second syllable.

8. 조심하세요 (jo-shim-ha-se-yo)

This apology is used to warn someone of a potential hazard or danger. It translates to "Be careful" and is pronounced with a clear "s" in the first syllable and a stressed "a" in the third syllable.

9. 건배! (geon-bae!)

While not strictly an apology, this phrase is often used in Korean to express regret or disappointment. It translates to "Cheers!" and is pronounced with a strong emphasis on the second syllable.

10. 죄송합니다 (joe-song-ham-ni-da)

This apology is used in more serious or formal situations when a grave error or offense has been committed. It translates to "I sincerely apologize" and is pronounced with a clear "s" in the first syllable and a stressed "a" in the third syllable.

Pronunciation Tips
Korean apologies typically have a rising tone at the end, expressing sincerity and regret.
Pay attention to the vowel sounds and differentiate between short and long vowels.
Practice the pronunciation regularly to gain fluency and improve your intonation.
Immerse yourself in Korean media and listen to native speakers to enhance your pronunciation skills.

2025-02-18

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