Understanding how to say numbers in Korean is a fundamental step in learning the language. While it may seem simple at first, Korean uses two distinct number systems: Sino-Korean and Native Korean.
Knowing when and how to use each system is crucial for accurate communication. This article focuses specifically on how to say “14” in Korean, explaining both number systems and providing ample examples and practice exercises.
This guide is perfect for beginners just starting their Korean language journey and intermediate learners looking to solidify their understanding of Korean numerals.
Whether you’re ordering food, telling time, or shopping, knowing your numbers will significantly enhance your ability to navigate everyday situations in Korea. By the end of this article, you’ll be confident in saying “14” in Korean and have a better grasp of the broader number systems used in the language.
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Definition: Saying “14” in Korean
- Korean Number Systems: Sino-Korean vs. Native Korean
- Sino-Korean Numbers
- Native Korean Numbers
- Examples of “14” in Context
- Usage Rules: Choosing the Right Number System
- Common Mistakes
- Practice Exercises
- Advanced Topics: Beyond the Basics
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Conclusion
Definition: Saying “14” in Korean
In Korean, the number “14” can be expressed in two different ways, depending on the number system used. These systems are the Sino-Korean system and the Native Korean system.
The choice of which system to use depends on the context. Understanding the differences between these systems is fundamental to mastering Korean numbers.
The Sino-Korean system, derived from Chinese, uses the number 십사 (sip-sa) to represent “14”. The Native Korean system, which is indigenous to the Korean language, uses 열넷 (yeol-ne) to represent “14”. Each system has its specific applications, making it important to learn both.
Korean Number Systems: Sino-Korean vs. Native Korean
Korean utilizes two primary number systems: Sino-Korean and Native Korean. Each system has distinct origins, pronunciation, and usage scenarios.
Understanding the differences between these systems is crucial for accurate and natural communication in Korean. It is not simply a matter of preference, but rather following specific rules that dictate which system should be used in a given context.
The Sino-Korean system is heavily influenced by Chinese, while the Native Korean system is unique to the Korean language. Mastering both of these systems will greatly improve your overall fluency and comprehension of Korean.
Sino-Korean Numbers
The Sino-Korean number system is derived from Chinese and shares many similarities with Chinese numerals. This system is used for various purposes, including dates, phone numbers, prices over a certain amount, measurements, and counting larger quantities.
It is essential to recognize and use Sino-Korean numbers correctly in these contexts.
“14” in Sino-Korean: Sip-sa (십사)
In the Sino-Korean system, “14” is expressed as 십사 (sip-sa). This is a combination of 십 (sip), meaning “ten,” and 사 (sa), meaning “four.” Therefore, 십사 literally translates to “ten-four,” which equates to fourteen.
The pronunciation of 십사 can be a bit tricky for beginners. The “십” (sip) sound is similar to the English word “ship,” while the “사” (sa) sound is similar to the English word “saw.” Practice saying these syllables together to become more comfortable with the pronunciation of 십사.
Usage of Sino-Korean Numbers
Sino-Korean numbers are used in a variety of situations. Below are some common examples:
- Dates: When stating the day and month in a date.
- Phone Numbers: When reciting phone numbers.
- Money (Large Amounts): For larger sums of money, especially when dealing with won.
- Addresses: For building numbers, apartment numbers, and addresses.
- Measurements: For measurements of length, weight, and volume.
Native Korean Numbers
The Native Korean number system is unique to the Korean language and is used for counting objects, stating age, and telling time (specifically hours). It’s important to understand and use this system correctly to avoid confusion.
“14” in Native Korean: Yeol-ne (열넷)
In the Native Korean system, “14” is expressed as 열넷 (yeol-ne). This is a combination of 열 (yeol), meaning “ten,” and 넷 (net), meaning “four.” It’s important note that when combining “ten” (열) with numbers one through four, the numbers change slightly. One becomes 하나 -> 한, two becomes 둘 -> 두, three becomes 셋 -> 세, and four becomes 넷 -> 네. For example 20 is 스물 (seumul) not 열둘 (yeol-dul).
The pronunciation of 열넷 can be broken down as follows: 열 (yeol) sounds similar to the English word “yul,” and 넷 (net) sounds similar to the English word “net.” Practice saying these syllables together to become more familiar with the pronunciation of 열넷.
Usage of Native Korean Numbers
Native Korean numbers are used in specific situations. Here are some common examples:
- Age: When stating someone’s age.
- Counting Objects: When counting items, especially smaller quantities.
- Hours: When telling time, specifically for the hour.
Examples of “14” in Context
To fully understand how to use “14” in Korean, it’s helpful to see it in various contexts. The following examples demonstrate the use of both Sino-Korean and Native Korean numbers in different scenarios.
Age
When stating someone’s age, you use Native Korean numbers. Here are some examples:
The following table provides examples of stating someone’s age using the Native Korean number for “14,” which is 열넷 (yeol-ne).
| Korean | Pronunciation | English Translation |
|---|---|---|
| 저는 열네 살이에요. | Jeoneun yeol-ne sal-ieyo. | I am 14 years old. |
| 그녀는 열네 살이에요. | Geunyeoneun yeol-ne sal-ieyo. | She is 14 years old. |
| 제 아들은 열네 살입니다. | Je adeureun yeol-ne sal-imnida. | My son is 14 years old. |
| 이 강아지는 열네 달 되었어요. | I gang-ajineun yeol-ne dal doeeosseoyo. | This puppy is 14 months old. |
| 그 아이는 열네 살처럼 보여요. | Geu aineun yeol-ne salcheoreom boyeoyo. | That child looks 14 years old. |
| 열네 살 때 저는 발레를 시작했어요. | Yeol-ne sal ttae jeoneun balle-reul sijakhaesseoyo. | I started ballet when I was 14 years old. |
| 열네 살 소녀는 노래를 아주 잘 부릅니다. | Yeol-ne sal sonyeoneun norae-reul aju jal bureumnida. | The 14-year-old girl sings very well. |
| 열네 살 생일 파티가 곧 다가와요. | Yeol-ne sal saeng-il patiga got dagawayo. | The 14th birthday party is coming soon. |
| 열네 살 때는 키가 작았어요. | Yeol-ne sal ttaeneun kiga jagasseoyo. | I was short when I was 14 years old. |
| 우리 손녀딸은 열네 살입니다. | Uri sonnyeodareun yeol-ne salimnida. | Our granddaughter is 14 years old. |
| 열네 살 이후로 많이 변했어요. | Yeol-ne sal i-huro manhi byeonhaesseoyo. | I’ve changed a lot since I was 14 years old. |
| 열네 살 때 처음으로 영화를 만들었어요. | Yeol-ne sal ttae cheoeum-euro yeonghwa-reul mandeureosseoyo. | I made my first movie when I was 14 years old. |
| 열네 살은 중요한 시기입니다. | Yeol-ne sareun jungyohan sigiimnida. | 14 years old is an important time. |
| 그는 열네 살에 학교를 졸업했어요. | Geuneun yeol-ne sare hakgyoreul joreopaesseoyo. | He graduated from school at 14 years old. |
| 열네 살 때부터 기타를 쳤어요. | Yeol-ne sal ttaebuteo gitareul chyeosseoyo. | I’ve been playing guitar since I was 14 years old. |
| 열네 살 아이가 혼자 여행을 갔어요. | Yeol-ne sal aiga honja yeohaengeul gasseoyo. | A 14-year-old child went on a trip alone. |
| 열네 살 때 부모님과 떨어져 살았어요. | Yeol-ne sal ttae bumonimgwa tteoreojyeo sarasseoyo. | I lived apart from my parents when I was 14 years old. |
| 열네 살에 처음으로 사랑에 빠졌어요. | Yeol-ne sare cheoeumeuro sarange ppajyeosseoyo. | I fell in love for the first time at 14 years old. |
| 열네 살 때부터 아르바이트를 했어요. | Yeol-ne sal ttaebuteo areubaiteureul haesseoyo. | I’ve been working part-time since I was 14 years old. |
| 열네 살 때 꿈이 많았어요. | Yeol-ne sal ttae kkumi manasseoyo. | I had many dreams when I was 14 years old. |
Price
For prices, especially larger amounts, Sino-Korean numbers are typically used. Here are some examples:
The following table illustrates how to express prices using the Sino-Korean number for “14,” which is 십사 (sip-sa), in conjunction with the Korean currency, 원 (won).
| Korean | Pronunciation | English Translation |
|---|---|---|
| 이 책은 십사 원입니다. | I chaegeun sip-sa wonimnida. | This book is 14 won. |
| 십사 만 원을 내야 해요. | Sip-sa man woneul naeya haeyo. | I have to pay 140,000 won. |
| 이 물건은 십사 달러입니다. | I mulgeoneun sip-sa dalleoimnida. | This item is 14 dollars. |
| 십사 유로를 지불했어요. | Sip-sa yureoreul jibulhaesseoyo. | I paid 14 euros. |
| 총 십사 엔입니다. | Chong sip-sa enimnida. | It is 14 yen in total. |
| 십사 프랑을 준비해야 해요. | Sip-sa peurangeul junbihaeya haeyo. | I need to prepare 14 francs. |
| 이 가방은 십사 파운드입니다. | I gabangeun sip-sa paundeuimnida. | This bag is 14 pounds. |
| 십사 루피를 냈어요. | Sip-sa rupireul naesseoyo. | I paid 14 rupees. |
| 십사 헤알이 필요해요. | Sip-sa heareal-i pilyohaeyo. | I need 14 reals. |
| 십사 크로나를 받았습니다. | Sip-sa keuronareul badatseumnida. | I received 14 kronas. |
| 십사 페소를 지불해야 합니다. | Sip-sa pesoreul jibulhaeya hamnida. | You have to pay 14 pesos. |
| 십사 즈워티를 냈어요. | Sip-sa jeuwo-tireul naesseoyo. | I paid 14 zlotys. |
| 십사 리라가 필요합니다. | Sip-sa liraga pilyohamnida. | I need 14 liras. |
| 십사 링깃을 준비하세요. | Sip-sa ringgiseul junbihaseyo. | Prepare 14 ringgits. |
| 십사 홍콩 달러입니다. | Sip-sa hongkong dalleoimnida. | It is 14 Hong Kong dollars. |
| 십사 싱가포르 달러를 지불했어요. | Sip-sa singgaporeu dalleoreul jibulhaesseoyo. | I paid 14 Singapore dollars. |
| 십사 타이 바트를 준비해야 해요. | Sip-sa tai bateureul junbihaeya haeyo. | I need to prepare 14 Thai baht. |
| 십사 랜드가 필요합니다. | Sip-sa raendeu-ga pilyohamnida. | I need 14 rands. |
| 십사 이집트 파운드를 냈어요. | Sip-sa ijipeu-te paundeu-reul naesseoyo. | I paid 14 Egyptian pounds. |
| 이것은 십사 캐나다 달러입니다. | Igeoseun sip-sa kaenada dalleoimnida. | This is 14 Canadian dollars. |
Date
When specifying the day, Sino-Korean numbers are used. Here are some examples:
The following table provides examples of how to use the Sino-Korean number 십사 (sip-sa) when specifying the day in a date.
| Korean | Pronunciation | English Translation |
|---|---|---|
| 오늘은 4월 십사 일입니다. | Oneureun sawol sip-sa ilimnida. | Today is April 14th. |
| 십사 일에 만나요. | Sip-sa ire manayo. | Let’s meet on the 14th. |
| 제 생일은 십사 일이에요. | Je saengireun sip-sa irieyo. | My birthday is on the 14th. |
| 십사 일까지 제출해야 해요. | Sip-sa ilkkaji jechulhaeya haeyo. | I have to submit it by the 14th. |
| 그녀는 십사 일에 도착할 거예요. | Geunyeoneun sip-sa ire dochakhal geo예요. | She will arrive on the 14th. |
| 십사 일에 회의가 있습니다. | Sip-sa ire hoe-uiga itseumnida. | There is a meeting on the 14th. |
| 십사 일은 휴일입니다. | Sip-sa ireun hyuilimnida. | The 14th is a holiday. |
| 십사 일에 이사 갈 거예요. | Sip-sa ire isa gal geo예요. | I am moving on the 14th. |
| 십사 일에 시험을 봅니다. | Sip-sa ire siheomeul bomnida. | I have an exam on the 14th. |
| 십사 일에 파티를 열 거예요. | Sip-sa ire patireul yeol geo예요. | I am having a party on the 14th. |
| 십사 일에 영화를 보러 가요. | Sip-sa ire yeonghwareul boreo gayo. | I am going to see a movie on the 14th. |
| 십사 일에 콘서트가 있어요. | Sip-sa ire konseoteuga isseoyo. | There is a concert on the 14th. |
| 십사 일에 여행을 떠나요. | Sip-sa ire yeohaengeul tteonayo. | I am going on a trip on the 14th. |
| 십사 일에 결혼식을 해요. | Sip-sa ire gyeolhonsigeul haeyo. | I am having a wedding on the 14th. |
| 십사 일에 면접이 있어요. | Sip-sa ire myeonjeobi isseoyo. | I have an interview on the 14th. |
| 십사 일에 발표가 있어요. | Sip-sa ire balpyoga isseoyo. | I have a presentation on the 14th. |
| 십사 일에 출장을 가요. | Sip-sa ire chuljangeul gayo. | I am going on a business trip on the 14th. |
| 십사 일에 봉사 활동을 해요. | Sip-sa ire bongsa hwaldongeul haeyo. | I am volunteering on the 14th. |
| 십사 일에 가족 모임이 있어요. | Sip-sa ire gajok moimi isseoyo. | I have a family gathering on the 14th. |
| 십사 일에 친구를 만나요. | Sip-sa ire chingu-reul mannayo. | I am meeting a friend on the 14th. |
Phone Numbers
Phone numbers are always recited using Sino-Korean numbers. Here are some examples:
The following table demonstrates how to use the Sino-Korean number 십사 (sip-sa) when reciting a phone number. Note that phone numbers are typically read digit by digit.
| Korean | Pronunciation | English Translation |
|---|---|---|
| 제 전화번호는 공일공에 십사 이에 삼사오육입니다. | Je jeonhwabeonhoneun gong-il-gong-e sip-sa ie samsa-oryugimnida. | My phone number is 010-142-3456. |
| 십사 번으로 전화해 주세요. | Sip-sa beoneuro jeonhwahae juseyo. | Please call number 14. |
| 고객센터 전화번호는 일오팔팔에 십사 일일입니다. | Gogaekseonteo jeonhwabeonhoneun il-o-pal-pal-e sip-sa il-il-imnida. | The customer center phone number is 1588-1411. |
| 긴급 전화는 일일에 십사 입니다. | Gingeup jeonhwaneun il-il-e sip-sa imnida. | The emergency phone is 114. |
| 십사 번 방으로 전화해 보세요. | Sip-sa beon bangeuro jeonhwahae boseyo. | Try calling room number 14. |
| 회사 대표 번호는 영이에 십사 삼사입니다. | Hoesa daepyo beonhoneun yeong-ie sip-sa samsaimnida. | The company representative number is 02-1434. |
| 십사 번 출구로 나오세요. | Sip-sa beon chul-guro naoseyo. | Come out from exit number 14. |
| 십사 번 버스를 타세요. | Sip-sa beon beoseureul taseyo. | Take bus number 14. |
| 십사 페이지를 보세요. | Sip-sa peijireul boseyo. | Look at page 14. |
| 십사 층에 있어요. | Sip-sa cheunge isseoyo. | It’s on the 14th floor. |
| 십사 호에 살아요. | Sip-sa hoe sarayo. | I live in house number 14. |
| 십사 개를 주문했어요. | Sip-sa gaereul jumunhaesseoyo. | I ordered 14 items. |
| 십사 명의 학생이 있어요. | Sip-sa myeong-ui haksaengi isseoyo. | There are 14 students. |
| 십사 시간 동안 일했어요. | Sip-sa sigan dongan ilhaesseoyo. | I worked for 14 hours. |
| 십사 년 전에 만났어요. | Sip-sa nyeon jeone mannasseoyo. | I met him 14 years ago. |
| 십사 번 질문에 답해 주세요. | Sip-sa beon jilmune daphae juseyo. | Please answer question number 14. |
| 십사 프로 할인해 드립니다. | Sip-sa peuro halinhae deurimnida. | We offer a 14% discount. |
| 십사 킬로미터를 걸었어요. | Sip-sa killomiteoreul georeosseoyo. | I walked 14 kilometers. |
| 십사 그램을 추가해 주세요. | Sip-sa geuraemeul chugahae juseyo. | Please add 14 grams. |
| 십사 리터를 샀어요. | Sip-sa riteoreul sasseoyo. | I bought 14 liters. |
Counting Objects
When counting objects, Native Korean numbers are typically used for smaller quantities. Here are some examples.
Note that counter words are essential when counting objects in Korean.
The following table provides examples of counting objects using the Native Korean number for “14,” which is 열넷 (yeol-ne), along with various counter words.
| Korean | Pronunciation | English Translation |
|---|---|---|
| 사과가 열네 개 있어요. | Sagwaga yeol-ne gae isseoyo. | There are 14 apples. |
| 책이 열네 권 있어요. | Chaegi yeol-ne gwon isseoyo. | There are 14 books. |
| 고양이가 열네 마리 있어요. | Goyang-iga yeol-ne mari isseoyo. | There are 14 cats. |
| 사람이 열네 명 있어요. | Sarami yeol-ne myeong isseoyo. | There are 14 people. |
| 꽃이 열네 송이 있어요. | Kkochi yeol-ne songi isseoyo. | There are 14 flowers. |
| 병이 열네 병 있어요. | Byeongi yeol-ne byeong isseoyo. | There are 14 bottles. |
| 나무가 열네 그루 있어요. | Namuga yeol-ne geuru isseoyo. | There are 14 trees. |
| 신발이 열네 켤레 있어요. | Sinbari yeol-ne kyeolle isseoyo. | There are 14 pairs of shoes. |
| 옷이 열네 벌 있어요. | Osi yeol-ne beol isseoyo. | There are 14 pieces of clothing. |
| 집이 열네 채 있어요. | Jibi yeol-ne chae isseoyo. | There are 14 houses. |
| 차가 열네 대 있어요. | Chaga yeol-ne dae isseoyo. | There are 14 cars. |
| 연필이 열네 자루 있어요. | Yeonpili yeol-ne jaru isseoyo. | There are 14 pencils. |
| 시계가 열네 개 있어요. | Sigyega yeol-ne gae isseoyo. | There are 14 clocks. |
| 의자가 열네 개 있어요. | Uijaga yeol-ne gae isseoyo. | There are 14 chairs. |
| 열쇠가 열네 개 있어요. | Yeolsoe-ga yeol-ne gae isseoyo. | There are 14 keys. |
| 텔레비전이 열네 대 있어요. | Tellebijeoni yeol-ne dae isseoyo. | There are 14 televisions. |
| 컴퓨터가 열네 대 있어요. | Keompyuteoga yeol-ne dae isseoyo. | There are 14 computers. |
| 휴대폰이 열네 개 있어요. | Hyudaeponi yeol-ne gae isseoyo. | There are 14 cell phones. |
| 가방이 열네 개 있어요. | Gabangi yeol-ne gae isseoyo. | There are 14 bags. |
| 모자가 열네 개 있어요. | Mojaga yeol-ne gae isseoyo. | There are 14 hats. |
Usage Rules: Choosing the Right Number System
Choosing between the Sino-Korean and Native Korean number systems depends on the context. Here’s a summary of the general rules:
- Sino-Korean: Used for dates (day and month), phone numbers, addresses, money (larger amounts), measurements, and counting larger quantities.
- Native Korean: Used for age, counting objects (smaller quantities), and telling time (hours).
There are exceptions to these rules, and some situations may require a more nuanced understanding. As you become more familiar with the Korean language, you will naturally develop a better sense of which system to use in different situations.
Common Mistakes
One of the most common mistakes learners make is using the wrong number system. For example, saying 십사 살 (sip-sa sal) for age instead of 열넷 살 (yeol-ne sal) is incorrect. Similarly, using Native Korean numbers for phone numbers is a common error.
Another common mistake is mispronouncing the numbers. Practice the pronunciation of both 십사 (sip-sa) and 열넷 (yeol-ne) to avoid confusion.
The following table illustrates some common mistakes and their corrections:
| Incorrect | Correct | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| 십사 살 (sip-sa sal) | 열넷 살 (yeol-ne sal) | Using Sino-Korean for age is incorrect; use Native Korean. |
| 열넷 번호 (yeol-ne beonho) | 십사 번호 (sip-sa beonho) | Using Native Korean for phone numbers is incorrect; use Sino-Korean. |
| 열넷 월 (yeol-ne wol) | 십사 월 (sip-sa wol) | Using Native Korean for months is incorrect; use Sino-Korean. |
Practice Exercises
Test your understanding of how to say “14” in Korean with these practice exercises. Determine whether you should use the Sino-Korean or Native Korean number in each situation, and then provide the correct answer.
Exercise 1: Translate the following phrases into Korean.
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| 1. I am 14 years old. | 저는 열넷 살이에요. (Jeoneun yeol-
ne salieyo.) |
| 2. My phone number ends in 1414. | 제 전화번호는 일사일사로 끝나요. (Je jeonhwabeonhoneun il-sa-il-sa-ro kkeunnayo.) |
| 3. There are 14 students in the class. | 반에 학생이 열네 명 있어요. (Bane haksaengi yeol-ne myeong isseoyo.) |
| 4. The date is July 14th. | 날짜는 7월 십사 일입니다. (Naljjaneun chirwol sip-sa ilimnida.) |
| 5. This costs 14,000 won. | 이것은 만사천 원입니다. (Igeoseun man sacheon wonimnida.) |
Exercise 2: Choose the correct Korean phrase.
- Which is the correct way to say “I will meet you on the 14th”?
- 열넷 일에 만나요. (Yeol-ne ire mannayo.)
- 십사 일에 만나요. (Sip-sa ire mannayo.)
Answer: 십사 일에 만나요. (Sip-sa ire mannayo.)
- Which is the correct way to say “She is 14 years old”?
- 십사 살이에요. (Sip-sa salieyo.)
- 열넷 살이에요. (Yeol-ne salieyo.)
Answer: 열넷 살이에요. (Yeol-ne salieyo.)
Advanced Topics: Beyond the Basics
Once you’ve mastered the basics of saying “14” in Korean, you can explore more advanced topics related to Korean numbers. This includes understanding larger numbers, using counter words correctly, and recognizing idiomatic expressions that involve numbers.
Additionally, exploring the historical context of Sino-Korean and Native Korean numbers can provide a deeper appreciation for the language. Understanding how these systems evolved and influenced the Korean language can enhance your overall learning experience.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Why are there two number systems in Korean?
Korean has two number systems due to historical influences. The Sino-Korean system was adopted from Chinese, while the Native Korean system is indigenous to the Korean language.
Both systems have specific uses, and understanding when to use each is essential for accurate communication.
How do I know which number system to use?
As a general rule, Sino-Korean numbers are used for dates, phone numbers, prices (larger amounts), and measurements. Native Korean numbers are used for age, counting objects (smaller quantities), and telling time (hours).
However, there are exceptions, so it’s important to learn the specific rules and contexts for each system.
Is it okay to mix the two number systems?
Mixing the two number systems can lead to confusion and is generally not recommended. It’s best to use the appropriate number system for the given context to ensure clear communication.
Are there any resources for practicing Korean numbers?
Yes, there are many online resources, textbooks, and language learning apps that can help you practice Korean numbers. Look for exercises that specifically focus on differentiating between the Sino-Korean and Native Korean systems.
Conclusion
Saying “14” in Korean requires understanding both the Sino-Korean (십사 or sip-sa) and Native Korean (열넷 or yeol-ne) number systems. Each system has its own specific usage scenarios, and mastering both is essential for effective communication in Korean. By learning the rules and practicing regularly, you can confidently use these numbers in everyday situations.
Continue practicing and expanding your knowledge of Korean numbers to further enhance your language skills. With dedication and effort, you’ll be well on your way to mastering the intricacies of the Korean language.