Learning how to say “go away” in Korean is essential for navigating various social situations, from setting boundaries to expressing annoyance. However, the Korean language, deeply rooted in social hierarchy and politeness, offers a range of expressions with varying degrees of formality.
This article provides a comprehensive guide to understanding and using these expressions appropriately. Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced learner, mastering these phrases will enhance your communication skills and cultural sensitivity in Korean.
This guide is designed for anyone learning Korean, especially those interested in understanding the nuances of politeness and social context. We will explore different ways to say “go away,” examining their levels of formality, connotations, and appropriate usage.
By the end of this article, you’ll be able to confidently choose the right expression for any situation.
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Definition of “Go Away” in Korean
- Structural Breakdown of Key Phrases
- Types and Categories of “Go Away” Expressions
- Examples of “Go Away” in Korean
- Usage Rules and Etiquette
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Practice Exercises
- Advanced Topics: Nuances and Context
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Conclusion
Definition of “Go Away” in Korean
The phrase “go away” in Korean is used to tell someone to leave or to express a desire for someone to stop bothering you. However, unlike English, Korean language usage is heavily influenced by social context and the relationship between speakers.
Therefore, there isn’t a single, direct translation of “go away.” Instead, several expressions convey the same meaning with varying degrees of formality and politeness. The choice of expression depends on factors such as age, social status, and the level of intimacy between the speakers.
The function of these expressions is to create distance, either physical or emotional. A more polite phrase could simply indicate a desire for privacy, while an impolite phrase is intended to offend.
Understanding the nuances of each expression is crucial for effective and respectful communication.
Structural Breakdown of Key Phrases
Korean sentence structure typically follows a Subject-Object-Verb (SOV) order. However, when commanding someone to “go away,” the subject (you) is often omitted.
The key element is the verb, which changes depending on the level of formality.
Here’s a breakdown of some key phrases:
- 가 (ga): The most basic form of “go,” used in very informal situations.
- 가라 (gara): A slightly stronger, still informal imperative form of “go.”
- 가세요 (gaseyo): A polite imperative form of “go,” using the honorific suffix “-세요 (-seyo).”
- 가십시오 (gasipsio): A formal imperative form of “go,” using the honorific suffix “-십시오 (-sipsio).”
- 저리 가 (jeori ga): “Go away” (informal), with “저리 (jeori)” meaning “over there.”
- 저리 가세요 (jeori gaseyo): “Go away” (polite), combining “저리 (jeori)” with the polite imperative.
Understanding the verb conjugations and the use of honorific suffixes is essential for constructing appropriate “go away” phrases in Korean.
Types and Categories of “Go Away” Expressions
Korean offers a spectrum of expressions to convey “go away,” each suited to different social contexts. These can be broadly categorized by their level of formality and politeness.
Informal Expressions
These expressions are used with close friends, family members (younger than you), or in situations where formality is not required. They can sound rude if used with someone older or of higher social status.
Examples include: 가 (ga), 가라 (gara), 저리 가 (jeori ga), and 꺼져 (kkeojyeo) (a very rude expression).
Polite Expressions
These expressions are suitable for use with strangers, acquaintances, or people older than you. They convey the message without being overly aggressive or disrespectful.
Examples include: 가세요 (gaseyo), 저리 가세요 (jeori gaseyo), and 좀 비켜주세요 (jom bikyeojuseyo) (meaning “please move aside”).
Formal Expressions
These expressions are used in formal settings, such as business meetings or when addressing someone of significantly higher status. They are the most respectful way to ask someone to leave.
Examples include: 가십시오 (gasipsio).
Impolite Expressions
These expressions are considered rude and should be used with extreme caution, if at all. They are often used in anger or to deliberately offend someone.
Examples include: 꺼져 (kkeojyeo), 저리 꺼져 (jeori kkeojyeo), and various swear words combined with “go.”
Indirect Expressions
Sometimes, instead of directly telling someone to “go away,” it’s more appropriate to use an indirect expression. This can be a more subtle and polite way to convey the message without being confrontational.
Examples include: 지금 바빠요 (jigeum bappayo) (meaning “I’m busy now”), 나중에 얘기해요 (najunge yaegihaeyo) (meaning “let’s talk later”), and 저는 이만 가볼게요 (jeoneun iman gabolgeyo) (meaning “I’ll be going now”).
Examples of “Go Away” in Korean
Understanding the different expressions for “go away” requires seeing them in context. The tables below provide various examples, categorized by formality level.
Informal Examples
These examples are intended for use with close friends or family members. Using them with strangers or elders can be considered rude.
The following table provides informal examples of how to say “go away” in Korean, along with their English translations and contextual notes.
| Korean Phrase | English Translation | Context |
|---|---|---|
| 가 (ga) | Go | Very informal; used with close friends or younger siblings. |
| 가라 (gara) | Go away | More assertive than “ga”; still informal. |
| 저리 가 (jeori ga) | Go away (over there) | Slightly more specific, indicating where to go. |
| 비켜 (bikyeo) | Move | Can imply “get out of my way.” |
| 귀찮아 (gw찮a) | You’re annoying | Indirectly telling someone to go away by expressing annoyance. |
| 신경 쓰지 마 (singyeong sseuji ma) | Don’t bother me | Similar to “leave me alone.” |
| 저리 꺼져 (jeori kkeojyeo) | Get lost (over there) | Extremely rude; use with caution (or never). |
| 좀 가! (jom ga!) | Just go! | Expressing impatience. |
| 이제 가 (ije ga) | Go now | Suggesting someone leave. |
| 빨리 가 (ppalli ga) | Go quickly | Telling someone to leave quickly. |
| 혼자 있고 싶어 (honja itgo sipeo) | I want to be alone | Indirectly telling someone to leave. |
| 내 앞에서 사라져 (nae apeseo sarajyeo) | Disappear from my sight | Very strong and rude. |
| 저리 좀 가봐 (jeori jom gabwa) | Go away for a bit | Asking someone to leave temporarily. |
| 됐어, 가 (dwaesseo, ga) | That’s enough, go | Telling someone to stop and leave. |
| 가라고! (garago!) | I said go! | Emphasizing the command to leave. |
| 너 싫어, 가 (neo sireo, ga) | I hate you, go | Very harsh and direct. |
| 나 좀 내버려 둬, 가 (na jom naebeoryeo dwo, ga) | Leave me alone, go | Asking to be left alone. |
| 제발 가 (jebal ga) | Please go | Adding “please” to an informal command doesn’t make it polite. |
| 가, 귀찮게 하지 말고 (ga, gwichanhge haji malgo) | Go, and don’t bother me | Telling someone to leave and not cause trouble. |
| 네가 가면 좋겠어 (niga gamyeon jokesseo) | I wish you would go | An indirect and slightly softer way to ask someone to leave. |
Polite Examples
These examples are suitable for use with strangers, acquaintances, or people older than you. They are less direct and more respectful.
The following table provides polite examples of how to say “go away” in Korean, along with their English translations and contextual notes.
| Korean Phrase | English Translation | Context |
|---|---|---|
| 가세요 (gaseyo) | Please go | Polite imperative; suitable for most situations. |
| 저리 가세요 (jeori gaseyo) | Please go away (over there) | More specific and polite. |
| 실례합니다, 좀 비켜주시겠어요? (sillyehamnida, jom bikyeojusigesseoyo?) | Excuse me, would you mind moving aside? | Very polite request to move. |
| 지금은 좀 바빠서요 (jigeumeun jom bappaseoyo) | I’m a bit busy right now | Indirectly asking someone to leave. |
| 나중에 다시 얘기할까요? (najunge dasi yaegihal까요?) | Shall we talk again later? | Politely postponing a conversation. |
| 죄송하지만, 지금은 안 돼요 (joesonghajiman, jigeumeun andwaeyo) | I’m sorry, but it’s not possible now | Politely refusing someone’s request or presence. |
| 저는 이만 가봐야겠어요 (jeoneun iman gabwayagetseoyo) | I should be going now | Indicating your own departure, implying the other person should also leave. |
| 다음에 뵙겠습니다 (daeume boep겠습니다) | I’ll see you next time | Politely ending a meeting or conversation. |
| 오늘은 여기까지 할까요? (oneureun yeogikkaji halkkayo?) | Shall we stop here for today? | Suggesting to end the meeting or conversation. |
| 다른 용무가 있어서요 (dareun yongmuga isseoseoyo) | I have other business to attend to | Politely excusing yourself. |
| 지금은 시간이 없어서요 (jigeumeun sigani eopseoseoyo) | I don’t have time right now | Politely indicating you are unavailable. |
| 다음에 뵙는 게 좋을 것 같아요 (daeume boepneun ge joeul geot gatayo) | I think it would be better to see you next time | Suggesting a future meeting instead of the present one. |
| 편히 쉬세요 (pyeonhi swiseyo) | Please rest well | Indirectly implying they should leave and rest. |
| 이만 일어나 보겠습니다 (iman ireona bogesseumnida) | I will get up now | Indicating you are leaving, prompting them to also leave. |
| 가시는 길 조심하세요 (gasineun gil josimhaseyo) | Please be careful on your way | Politely wishing them well as they leave. |
| 안녕히 가세요 (annyeonghi gaseyo) | Goodbye (said to someone leaving) | The standard farewell, implying they should leave. |
| 실례했습니다 (sillyehaesseumnida) | I apologize for the intrusion | Politely excusing yourself and implying they should be left alone. |
| 이만 실례하겠습니다 (iman sillye 하겠습니다) | I will excuse myself now | A more formal way to say you are leaving. |
| 좋은 하루 보내세요 (joeun haru bonaeseyo) | Have a good day | Wishing them well as you leave. |
| 다음에 또 뵙기를 바랍니다 (daeume tto boepgireul baramnida) | I hope to see you again | Politely ending a meeting and implying departure. |
Formal Examples
These expressions are used in very formal settings, such as business meetings or when addressing someone of significantly higher status. They are the most respectful way to ask someone to leave.
The following table provides formal examples of how to say “go away” in Korean, along with their English translations and contextual notes.
| Korean Phrase | English Translation | Context |
|---|---|---|
| 가십시오 (gasipsio) | Please go (formal) | Very formal imperative; used in professional or highly respectful settings. |
| 이만 실례하겠습니다 (iman sillye 하겠습니다) | I will excuse myself now (formal) | Used in business settings or when addressing superiors. |
| 다른 용무가 있으시면 먼저 가십시오 (dareun yongmuga isseusimyeon meonjeo gasipsio) | If you have other business, please go ahead | Politely suggesting someone leave to attend to other matters. |
| 바쁘신데 먼저 가셔도 좋습니다 (bappeusinde meonjeo gasyeodo joseumnida) | You’re busy, so you may leave first | Formally suggesting someone leave due to their busy schedule. |
| 이만 퇴장하겠습니다 (iman twejanghagesseumnida) | I will now leave (formal) | Used in formal meetings or presentations. |
| 먼저 퇴근하겠습니다 (meonjeo toegeunhagesseumnida) | I will leave work first (formal) | Used when leaving work before others. |
| 가시는 길 평안하시기를 바랍니다 (gasineun gil pyeong’anhasigireul baramnida) | I hope you have a peaceful journey | A very formal and polite way to wish someone well as they leave. |
| 안녕히 가십시오 (annyeonghi gasipsio) | Goodbye (formal, said to someone leaving) | The formal version of “goodbye” for someone who is leaving. |
| 오늘 수고하셨습니다 (oneul sugohasyeotseumnida) | You worked hard today (formal) | A formal way to acknowledge someone’s effort before they leave. |
| 다음 회의 때 뵙겠습니다 (daeum hoeui ttae boep겠습니다) | I will see you at the next meeting | A formal way to end a meeting and indicate departure. |
| 시간 내주셔서 감사합니다 (sigan naejusyeoseo gamsahamnida) | Thank you for your time | Expressing gratitude for their time before they leave. |
| 협조해주셔서 감사합니다 (hyeopjohaejusyeoseo gamsahamnida) | Thank you for your cooperation | Expressing gratitude for their help before they leave. |
| 이만 물러가겠습니다 (iman mulleogagesseumnida) | I will now withdraw (formal) | A very formal way to say you are leaving. |
| 이제 그만 정리하겠습니다 (ije geuman jeongnihagesseumnida) | I will now finish up (formal) | Indicating you are ending the meeting or conversation. |
| 폐를 끼쳐드려 죄송합니다 (pyereul kkicheodeuryeo joesonghamnida) | I apologize for the inconvenience | Formally apologizing for any trouble caused. |
| 오늘 함께 해주셔서 감사합니다 (oneul hamkke haejusyeoseo gamsahamnida) | Thank you for being with us today | Expressing gratitude for their presence. |
| 다음 기회에 다시 뵙겠습니다 (daeum gihoe-e dasi boep겠습니다) | I hope to see you again in the future | A polite and formal farewell. |
| 성원해주셔서 감사합니다 (seongwonhaejusyeoseo gamsahamnida) | Thank you for your support | Expressing gratitude for their support. |
| 많은 도움 주셔서 감사합니다 (maneun doum jusyeoseo gamsahamnida) | Thank you for your great help | Expressing gratitude for their assistance. |
| 수고하십시오 (sugohasipsio) | Please keep up the good work (formal) | Said to someone staying behind, acknowledging their continued effort. |
Impolite Examples
These expressions are considered rude and should be used with extreme caution, if at all. They are often used in anger or to deliberately offend someone.
The following table provides impolite examples of how to say “go away” in Korean, along with their English translations and contextual notes.
| Korean Phrase | English Translation | Context |
|---|---|---|
| 꺼져 (kkeojyeo) | Get lost | Extremely rude and offensive. |
| 저리 꺼져 (jeori kkeojyeo) | Get lost over there | Even more offensive than “꺼져.” |
| 닥쳐 (dakchyeo) | Shut up | Rude and disrespectful; often used with “go away.” |
| 시끄러워, 좀 가! (sikkeureowo, jom ga!) | You’re noisy, go away! | Expressing annoyance and telling someone to leave. |
| 짜증나, 꺼져 (jjajeungna, kkeojyeo) | You’re annoying, get lost | Very rude expression of annoyance. |
| 네 알 바 아니야, 가 (ne al ba aniya, ga) | It’s none of your business, go | Rude and dismissive. |
| 뭐야, 꺼져 (mwoya, kkeojyeo) | What, get lost | Aggressive and confrontational. |
| 신경 꺼, 가 (singyeong kkeo, ga) | Mind your own business, go | Rude way of telling someone to stop interfering. |
| 너 때문에 짜증나, 꺼져 (neo ttaemune jjajeungna, kkeojyeo) | You’re making me annoyed, get lost | Blaming someone and telling them to leave. |
| 가서 딴 데나 봐 (gaseo ttan dena bwa) | Go look somewhere else | Dismissive and rude. |
| 귀찮게 하지 말고 꺼져 (gwichanhge haji malgo kkeojyeo) | Don’t bother me and get lost | Emphasizing the annoyance and rudeness. |
| 너 보기 싫어, 가 (neo bogi sireo, ga) | I don’t want to see you, go | Direct and hurtful. |
| 얼씬거리지 마, 꺼져 (eolssinggeoriji ma, kkeojyeo) | Don’t hang around, get lost | Telling someone not to linger. |
| 제발 좀 사라져 (jebal jom sarajyeo) | Please just disappear | Strongly wishing someone would leave. |
| 가서 똥이나 먹어 (gaseo ttongina meogeo) | Go eat poop | Extremely offensive insult. |
| 저리 안 가? (jeori an ga?) | Aren’t you going away? | Impatient and rude. |
| 왜 자꾸 따라와, 꺼져 (wae jakku ttarawa, kkeojyeo) | Why do you keep following me, get lost | Annoyed at being followed. |
| 너랑 말하기 싫어, 가 (neorang malhagi sireo, ga) | I don’t want to talk to you, go | Directly refusing conversation. |
| 내 눈 앞에서 당장 꺼져 (nae nun apeseo dangjang kkeojyeo) | Get out of my sight right now | Demanding immediate departure. |
| 너 정말 짜증나, 꺼져 (neo jeongmal jjajeungna, kkeojyeo) | You’re really annoying, get lost | Expressing extreme annoyance. |
Indirect Examples
These expressions are a more subtle and polite way to convey the message without being confrontational.
The following table provides indirect examples of how to say “go away” in Korean, along with their English translations and contextual notes.
| Korean Phrase | English Translation | Context |
|---|---|---|
| 지금 바빠요 (jigeum bappayo) | I’m busy now | Indicating unavailability. |
| 나중에 얘기해요 (najunge yaegihaeyo) | Let’s talk later | Postponing a conversation. |
| 피곤해요 (pigonhaeyo) | I’m tired | Suggesting a need for rest and solitude. |
| 할 일이 많아요 (hal iri manayo) | I have a lot of work to do | Indicating a lack of time for interaction. |
| 오늘은 좀 쉬고 싶어요 (oneureun jom swigo sipeoyo) | I want to rest today | Expressing a desire for solitude. |
| 혼자 있고 싶어요 (honja itgo sipeoyo) | I want to be alone | Directly stating a desire for solitude. |
| 지금 집중해야 해요 (jigeum jipjunghae야 haeyo) | I need to concentrate now | Indicating a need for focus and quiet. |
| 머리가 아파요 (meoriga apayo) | I have a headache | Suggesting a need for rest and quiet. |
| 몸이 안 좋아요 (momi an joayo) | I don’t feel well | Indicating a need for rest and solitude. |
| 조용히 하고 싶어요 (joyonghi hago sipeoyo) | I want to be quiet | Expressing a need for silence. |
| 그냥 쉬고 싶어요 (geunyang swigo sipeoyo) | I just want to rest | Simply stating a desire for rest. |
| 생각할 시간이 필요해요 (saenggakhal sigani pilyohaeyo) | I need time to think | Indicating a need for solitude and reflection. |
| 나중에 연락할게요 (najunge yeollakhalgeyo) | I’ll contact you later | Postponing communication. |
| 다음에 만나요 (daeume mannayo) | Let’s meet next time | Postponing a meeting. |
| 지금은 통화하기 어려워요 (jigeumeun 통화hagi eoryeowoyo) | It’s difficult to talk on the phone now | Indicating unavailability for a phone call. |
| 나중에 문자할게요 (najunge munjahalgeyo) | I’ll text you later | Postponing communication via text. |
| 지금은 답장하기 힘들어요 (jigeumeun dapjanghagi himdeureoyo) | It’s hard to reply now | Indicating inability to respond. |
| 나중에 다시 얘기해요 (najunge dasi yaegihaeyo) | Let’s talk again later | Postponing a conversation. |
| 지금은 시간이 없어요 (jigeumeun sigani eopseoyo) | I don’t have time now | Indicating a lack of time. |
| 저는 이만 가볼게요 (jeoneun iman gabolgeyo) | I’ll be going now | Indicating your own departure. |
Usage Rules and Etiquette
Using the correct expression for “go away” in Korean depends heavily on the social context. Here are some key rules to keep in mind:
- Respect Hierarchy: Always use polite or formal expressions when speaking to elders, superiors, or strangers.
- Consider Intimacy: Informal expressions are appropriate for close friends and family members of similar or lower social standing.
- Avoid Impolite Expressions: Unless you intend to offend someone, avoid using impolite expressions. They can damage relationships and create conflict.
- Be Mindful of Tone: Even polite expressions can sound rude if delivered with an aggressive tone. Maintain a calm and respectful demeanor.
- Consider the Situation: The specific situation can also influence the choice of expression. For example, a crowded subway might warrant a more direct (but still polite) request to move aside.
Understanding these rules will help you navigate social situations in Korea with greater confidence and respect.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Learners often make mistakes when using “go away” expressions in Korean. Here are some common errors and how to correct them:
| Incorrect | Correct | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| 가! (ga!) – to a stranger | 가세요 (gaseyo) – to a stranger | Using informal “가” with a stranger is rude. “가세요” is the polite form. |
| 가십시오 (gasipsio) – to a close friend | 가 (ga) – to a close friend | “가십시오” is too formal for close friends. “가” is appropriate. |
| 저리 꺼져 (jeori kkeojyeo) – casually | (Avoid using) | “저리 꺼져” is extremely rude and should generally be avoided. |
| 비켜 (bikyeo) – to an elder | 비켜주세요 (bikyeojuseyo) – to an elder | “비켜” is too informal for an elder. “비켜주세요” is polite. |
| 지금 바빠 (jigeum bappa) – to a superior | 지금 바쁩니다 (jigeum bappeumnida) – to a superior | Using casual form with a superior is disrespectful. Use the formal “-ㅂ니다/습니다”. |
Avoiding these common mistakes will improve your communication skills and prevent misunderstandings.
Practice Exercises
Test your understanding with these practice exercises. Choose the most appropriate “go away” expression for each situation.
Here are some practice exercises to help you solidify your understanding of how to say “go away” in Korean. Each question presents a scenario, and you should choose the most appropriate phrase from the options provided.
| Question | Options | Answer | Explanation |
|---|---|---|---|
| You want your younger sibling to leave your room. | a) 가세요 (gaseyo) b) 가 (ga) c) 가십시오 (gasipsio) | b) 가 (ga) | “가” is the most appropriate informal expression for a younger sibling. |
| You need someone to move on a crowded bus. | a) 꺼져 (kkeojyeo) b) 비켜주세요 (bikyeojuseyo) c) 비켜 (bikyeo) | b) 비켜주세요 (bikyeojuseyo) | “비켜주세요” is the polite way to ask someone to move. |
| Your boss is bothering you while you’re trying to concentrate. | a) 저리 가 (jeori ga) b) 지금 바쁩니다 (jigeum bappeumnida) c) 꺼져 (kkeojyeo) | b) 지금 바쁩니다 (jigeum bappeumnida) | “지금 바쁩니다” is a polite way to indicate you are busy. |
| A stranger is asking you too many personal questions. | a) 신경 쓰지 마 (singyeong sseuji ma) b) 다음에 얘기해요 (daeume yaegihaeyo) c) 가십시오 (gasipsio) | b) 다음에 얘기해요 (daeume yaegihaeyo) | “다음에 얘기해요” is a polite way to postpone the conversation. |
| You are in a formal meeting and need to excuse yourself. | a) 가 (ga) b) 이만 실례하겠습니다 (iman sillye 하겠습니다) c
) 저리 가 (jeori ga) |
b) 이만 실례하겠습니다 (iman sillye하겠습니다) | “이만 실례하겠습니다” is a formal way to excuse yourself. |
Advanced Topics: Nuances and Context
Beyond the basic expressions, understanding the nuances and context can significantly improve your ability to communicate effectively in Korean. Here are some advanced topics to consider:
- Body Language: Non-verbal cues play a crucial role in communication. A stern look or a sigh can amplify the message, while a smile can soften it.
- Regional Dialects: Different regions may have their own unique expressions for “go away.” Learning these can enhance your understanding and appreciation of the language.
- Cultural Sensitivity: Understanding Korean cultural values, such as collectivism and respect for elders, is essential for avoiding misunderstandings and showing respect.
- Euphemisms: Sometimes, using euphemisms can be a more tactful way to ask someone to leave. For example, suggesting that they might be more comfortable elsewhere.
By delving deeper into these advanced topics, you can achieve a more nuanced and sophisticated understanding of Korean communication.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Here are some frequently asked questions about saying “go away” in Korean:
- Is it ever okay to use impolite expressions?
- Impolite expressions should generally be avoided unless you are in a situation where you intentionally want to offend someone. Even then, consider the potential consequences.
- How can I be more polite when asking someone to leave?
- Use polite expressions, maintain a calm tone, and offer a reason or excuse for your request. For example, “죄송하지만, 지금은 좀 바빠서요” (I’m sorry, but I’m a bit busy right now).
- What if someone is being persistent even after I’ve asked them to leave politely?
- You may need to be more assertive, but still try to remain respectful. You can repeat your request more firmly or seek assistance from others if necessary.
- Are there any situations where it’s better to remain silent?
- In some situations, especially when dealing with authority figures or elders, it may be more appropriate to remain silent and endure the situation rather than risk causing offense.
- How do I know which expression is most appropriate?
- Consider the social context, your relationship with the person, and the specific situation. If in doubt, err on the side of politeness.
Conclusion
Mastering the art of saying “go away” in Korean involves understanding a spectrum of expressions, each tailored to different social contexts. From informal phrases for close friends to formal expressions for superiors, the key is to choose the right words for the situation.
By respecting the rules of hierarchy and politeness, you can communicate effectively and avoid misunderstandings. Remember to practice these expressions, be mindful of your tone, and always prioritize cultural sensitivity.
With these tools in hand, you’ll be well-equipped to navigate the complexities of Korean communication.