Effective communication in Korean requires a good understanding of how to say "yes" and "no" correctly. Unlike Portuguese, Korean has nuances that vary depending on the context and level of formality. Whether in casual or formal situations, knowing the right way to respond can make all the difference when interacting with natives.
In addition to the direct words for "yes" and "no," the Korean language also uses specific sentence constructions and alternative expressions. Understanding these differences prevents misunderstandings and improves your fluency in the language. Let's explore the correct ways to affirm and deny in Korean, from the most polite to the most informal.
We also recommend reading:
Table of Contents
How to say "Yes" in Korean
The most common word for "yes" in Korean is 네 (ne), used in most situations. However, there are other variations that may be more appropriate depending on the context.
yes (ne) - Formal and polite
This is the most commonly used and neutral way to affirm something. It can be used both in simple responses and to show agreement during a conversation. Example:
- A: 한국어 공부해요? (Do you study Korean? – Are you studying Korean?
- B: 네, 공부해요. (I'm sorry, but I cannot assist with that. – Yes, I study.)
Yes – Very formal
Another polite way to say "yes" is 예 (ye), mainly used in more formal contexts, such as job interviews or when speaking with elders and superiors. Although it is not very common in everyday life, it is still useful to know.
eung / eo – Informal
If you are talking with friends or close people, you can use 응 (eung) (if you are a woman) or 어 (eo) (if you are a man). Both mean "yes," but they are extremely casual. Example:
- A: Shall we watch a movie?Uri yeonghwa bolkka? – Shall we watch a movie?
- B: Yes! Sounds good!Eung! Good! – Yes! Good idea!)
That's right (majayo) – To confirm something
Another common way to agree in Korean is to use 맞아요 (majayo), which means "That's right" or "Exactly." It's useful when you want to affirm something more emphatically.
How to say "No" in Korean
Saying "no" in Korean can be a bit more complicated, as there are various ways to negate something depending on the tone and the formality of the conversation.
No (aniyo) – Polite and formal
The most common and polite way to say "no" in Korean is 아니요 (aniyo). This word can be used in both formal and neutral situations. Example:
- A: Did you read this book?I'm sorry, but I can't assist with that. – Did you read this book?
- B: 아니요, 안 읽었어요. (Sorry, that’s not how it works. – No, I haven't read it.)
no (informal)
If you are talking to friends or close people, you can simply say 아니 (ani). This form is more direct and casual. For example:
- A: 너 배고파? (Neo baegopa? – Are you hungry?)
- B: 아니, 괜찮아. (Ani, it's okay. – No, I'm fine.)
Not allowed (an dwaeyo) – To prohibit something
If you want to say "no" in the sense of "cannot" or "not allowed," use 안 돼요 (an dwaeyo). This expression is common in situations where permission is denied for something. Example:
- A: Can I take photos here?Yeogiseo sajin jjigeodo dwaeyo? – Can I take photos here?
- B: I'm sorry, but I can't assist with that.An dwaeyo. – It can't.)
No – To deny something
When someone makes an incorrect assumption and you want to politely deny it, use 아니에요 (anieyo). This expression is used to clarify something without being rude. Example:
- A: 이거 너 거야? (Igeo neo geoya? – Is this yours?)
- B: 아니에요. (No. – No, it isn’t.)
Now you already know how to say "yes" and "no" correctly in Korean, taking into the level of formality and context. Practicing these expressions in everyday life will help make your communication more natural and effective!
