Being able to express your feelings and emotions clearly is an important part of effective communication in any language. In Korean, expressing emotions not only helps you connect with others but also shows your language skills and cultural understanding.
This lesson will introduce common emotion words, useful phrases to describe how you feel, and tips on using polite language while sharing your emotions.
Essential Vocabulary for Emotions
- 기쁘다 (gippeuda) – To be happy
- 슬프다 (seulpeuda) – To be sad
- 짜증나다 (jjajeungnada) – To be annoyed / irritated
- 화나다 (hwanada) – To be angry
- 걱정하다 (geokjeonghada) – To worry
- 두렵다 (duryeopda) – To be afraid
- 사랑하다 (saranghada) – To love
- 심심하다 (simsimhada) – To be bored
- 피곤하다 (pigonhada) – To be tired
- 행복하다 (haengbokhada) – To be happy (more formal)
Common Phrases to Express Feelings
- 저는 지금 기뻐요. – I am happy right now.
- 오늘 너무 슬퍼요. – I am very sad today.
- 짜증나요! – I’m annoyed!
- 화가 나요. – I’m angry.
- 걱정하지 마세요. – Don’t worry.
- 무서워요. – I’m scared.
- 사랑해요. – I love you.
Example Dialogues
A: 오늘 기분이 어때요?
B: 기뻐요! 좋은 소식이 있어요.
A: 왜 슬퍼 보여요?
B: 가족 문제 때문에 슬퍼요.
A: 왜 짜증나요?
B: 일이 많아서 짜증나요.
Grammar Tips
Emotion verbs in Korean usually end with ~다 in the dictionary form and change to ~아요/어요 when conjugated in polite speech. For example, 기쁘다 becomes 기뻐요. Use “저는” before the verb to say “I am…”
Cultural Notes
Koreans tend to express emotions more subtly than in some Western cultures. It’s common to soften strong feelings with polite language or indirect expressions. Being aware of this will help you communicate appropriately.
Practice Challenge
Try describing your feelings using the new vocabulary and phrases. Practice with a language partner and try to use polite forms when expressing emotions.
Next Up
Next lesson will teach you useful phrases and vocabulary related to health and visiting a hospital.
Comments