Learning to say “you too” in Korean is essential for basic conversational skills. It allows you to reciprocate well wishes, express agreement, and maintain polite interactions.
This article provides a comprehensive guide to mastering various Korean phrases equivalent to “you too,” covering different contexts, levels of formality, and nuanced meanings. Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced learner, this guide will equip you with the necessary knowledge and practical examples to confidently use these expressions in real-life situations.
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Definition: Saying “You Too” in Korean
- Structural Breakdown of Key Phrases
- Types of Responses: Formal, Standard, and Informal
- Examples in Various Contexts
- Usage Rules and Considerations
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Practice Exercises
- Advanced Topics: Nuances and Regional Variations
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Conclusion
Introduction
The ability to reciprocate phrases like “you too” is crucial for smooth communication in any language. In Korean, there are several ways to express this sentiment, each with its own level of formality and specific usage.
Mastering these expressions demonstrates respect and understanding of Korean cultural norms. This article will guide you through the various ways to say “you too” in Korean, providing detailed explanations, examples, and practical tips to enhance your conversational skills and cultural competence.
Understanding these nuances will help you navigate social interactions more effectively and build stronger connections with Korean speakers.
Definition: Saying “You Too” in Korean
Saying “you too” in Korean isn’t a one-size-fits-all translation. Instead, it involves choosing the appropriate phrase based on the context, the relationship with the speaker, and the level of formality required.
The most common ways to express “you too” involve mirroring the speaker’s statement or offering a similar wish in return. These responses can range from very formal to casual, reflecting the hierarchical structure often present in Korean communication.
Understanding these variations is key to using the correct phrase and avoiding any unintentional offense.
Classification of Responses
Korean responses to “you too” can be classified based on formality levels:
- Formal: Used with elders, superiors, or in formal settings.
- Standard: Used with people of similar age or status, or in most general situations.
- Informal: Used with close friends, family, or younger individuals.
Function of Responses
The function of saying “you too” in Korean is to reciprocate a wish, statement, or sentiment expressed by the other person. It shows that you acknowledge their words and are offering a similar feeling or wish in return.
This contributes to maintaining a positive and respectful conversation flow.
Contexts for Use
The phrases for “you too” change based on context. Here are some examples:
- Wishing someone well: After someone says “Have a good day,” you can reciprocate.
- Expressing agreement: When someone shares an opinion, you can show agreement and extend the sentiment to them.
- Responding to a compliment: If someone compliments you, you can politely return the compliment.
Structural Breakdown of Key Phrases
Understanding the structure of Korean phrases equivalent to “you too” involves recognizing grammatical elements like particles, verb endings, and honorifics. Each component contributes to the overall meaning and level of formality.
Let’s break down some key phrases:
Nado (나도) and Jeodo (저도)
Nado (나도) and Jeodo (저도) both mean “me too,” but Jeodo is the humble form. They are often used to express agreement or to indicate that you share the same sentiment.
Structure:
- Na (나): I (informal)
- Jeo (저): I (humble)
- Do (도): Too, also
Example: If someone says “I like coffee,” you can respond with “Nado” (나도) or “Jeodo” (저도) to mean “Me too.”
Dangshineyo (당신에요)
This is a more direct translation, but it’s rarely used in natural conversation. It literally means “You too,” but it can sound awkward or unnatural.
Structure:
- Dangsin (당신): You
- Eyo (에요): Is (polite ending)
Bok manhi badeuseyo (복 많이 받으세요)
This phrase means “Receive a lot of blessings” and is commonly used during holidays like Lunar New Year (Seollal). To reciprocate, you would say the same phrase back.
Structure:
- Bok (복): Blessing, good fortune
- Manhi (많이): A lot, much
- Badeuseyo (받으세요): Please receive (honorific)
Sogeumaneuseyo (수고 많으세요)
This phrase means “Thank you for your hard work” and is often used to appreciate someone’s efforts. A common response is “Sogeumaneuseyo” or “Sogeuhaseyo”.
Structure:
- Sugo (수고): Effort, hard work
- Manheuseyo (많으세요): A lot, much (honorific)
Types of Responses: Formal, Standard, and Informal
Choosing the correct level of formality is crucial in Korean. Here’s a breakdown of how to say “you too” in different formality levels:
Formal Responses
Formal responses are used with people older than you, of higher status, or in professional settings. They often involve honorific language.
Examples:
- Jeodo geureoke saenggakhamnida (저도 그렇게 생각합니다): I think so too (formal).
- Seonsaengnimdo bok manhi badeuseyo (선생님도 복 많이 받으세요): Teacher, receive a lot of blessings too.
Standard Responses
Standard responses are used with people of similar age or status, or in general situations. They are polite but not overly formal.
Examples:
- Nado geureoke saenggakae (나도 그렇게 생각해): I think so too.
- Geuraeyo? Nado (그래요? 나도): Really? Me too.
Informal Responses
Informal responses are used with close friends, family members, or younger individuals. They often involve casual language and contractions.
Examples:
- Nado! (나도!): Me too!
- Geurae, neo-do (그래, 너도): Yeah, you too.
Examples in Various Contexts
Here are some examples of how to say “you too” in different situations:
Responding to Well Wishes
When someone wishes you well, you can reciprocate the wish using appropriate phrases. Below is a table with example phrases and responses.
| Situation | Original Phrase | Korean Translation | Response | Response Translation |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wishing a good day | Have a good day! | 좋은 하루 보내세요! (Joeun haru bonaeseyo!) | 선생님도 좋은 하루 보내세요! (Seonsaengnimdo joeun haru bonaeseyo!) | You too, have a good day! |
| Wishing good luck | Good luck! | 행운을 빌어요! (Haenguneul bireoyo!) | 당신도 행운을 빌어요! (Dangshindo haenguneul bireoyo!) | I wish you good luck too! |
| Wishing a good weekend | Have a good weekend! | 주말 잘 보내세요! (Jumal jal bonaeseyo!) | 당신도 주말 잘 보내세요! (Dangshindo jumal jal bonaeseyo!) | You too, have a good weekend! |
| Wishing happy holidays | Happy holidays! | 즐거운 연휴 보내세요! (Jeul거운 yeonhyu bonaeseyo!) | 선생님도 즐거운 연휴 보내세요! (Seonsaengnimdo jeul거운 yeonhyu bonaeseyo!) | You too, have happy holidays! |
| Wishing a good trip | Have a good trip! | 여행 잘 다녀오세요! (Yeohaeng jal danyeooseyo!) | 선생님도 여행 잘 다녀오세요! (Seonsaengnimdo yeohaeng jal danyeooseyo!) | You too, have a good trip! |
| Wishing good health | Stay healthy! | 건강하세요! (Geonganghaseyo!) | 선생님도 건강하세요! (Seonsaengnimdo geonganghaseyo!) | You too, stay healthy! |
| Wishing a good meal | Enjoy your meal! | 맛있게 드세요! (Masitge deuseyo!) | 선생님도 맛있게 드세요! (Seonsaengnimdo masitge deuseyo!) | You too, enjoy your meal! |
| Wishing a good night | Have a good night! | 좋은 밤 되세요! (Joeun bam doeseyo!) | 선생님도 좋은 밤 되세요! (Seonsaengnimdo joeun bam doeseyo!) | You too, have a good night! |
| Wishing success | Good luck with your project! | 프로젝트 성공하세요! (Peurojekteu seonggonghaseyo!) | 선생님도 프로젝트 성공하세요! (Seonsaengnimdo peurojekteu seonggonghaseyo!) | You too, good luck with your project! |
| Wishing someone well | I hope you get better soon! | 빨리 나으세요! (Ppalli naseyo!) | 선생님도 빨리 나으세요! (Seonsaengnimdo ppalli naseyo!) | You too, I hope you get better soon! |
Expressing Agreement
When someone expresses an opinion or preference, you can show agreement by saying “me too” or a similar phrase. Below is a table with example phrases and responses.
| Situation | Original Phrase | Korean Translation | Response | Response Translation |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Liking something | I like this song. | 이 노래 좋아해요. (I norae joahaeyo.) | 나도 이 노래 좋아해요. (Nado i norae joahaeyo.) | I like this song too. |
| Feeling a certain way | I’m tired today. | 오늘 피곤해요. (Oneul pigonhaeyo.) | 저도 오늘 피곤해요. (Jeodo oneul pigonhaeyo.) | I’m tired today too. |
| Enjoying an activity | I enjoy reading books. | 책 읽는 것을 좋아해요. (Chaek inneun geoseul joahaeyo.) | 나도 책 읽는 것을 좋아해요. (Nado chaek inneun geoseul joahaeyo.) | I enjoy reading books too. |
| Having a preference | I prefer coffee over tea. | 차보다 커피를 더 좋아해요. (Chaboda keopireul deo joahaeyo.) | 저도 차보다 커피를 더 좋아해요. (Jeodo chaboda keopireul deo joahaeyo.) | I prefer coffee over tea too. |
| Sharing an opinion | I think this movie is great. | 이 영화 정말 좋아요. (I yeonghwa jeongmal joayo.) | 나도 이 영화 정말 좋아요. (Nado i yeonghwa jeongmal joayo.) | I think this movie is great too. |
| Expressing a concern | I’m worried about the exam. | 시험 때문에 걱정돼요. (Siheom ttaemune geokjeongdwaeyo.) | 저도 시험 때문에 걱정돼요. (Jeodo siheom ttaemune geokjeongdwaeyo.) | I’m worried about the exam too. |
| Enjoying the weather | I love this weather. | 이 날씨 너무 좋아요. (I nalssi neomu joayo.) | 나도 이 날씨 너무 좋아요. (Nado i nalssi neomu joayo.) | I love this weather too. |
| Feeling happy | I’m so happy today. | 오늘 너무 행복해요. (Oneul neomu haengbokhaeyo.) | 저도 오늘 너무 행복해요. (Jeodo oneul neomu haengbokhaeyo.) | I’m so happy today too. |
| Finding something interesting | This book is very interesting. | 이 책 정말 재미있어요. (I chaek jeongmal jaemiisseoyo.) | 나도 이 책 정말 재미있어요. (Nado i chaek jeongmal jaemiisseoyo.) | This book is very interesting too. |
| Being excited about something | I’m excited about the trip. | 여행 때문에 신나요. (Yeohaeng ttaemune sinnayo.) | 저도 여행 때문에 신나요. (Jeodo yeohaeng ttaemune sinnayo.) | I’m excited about the trip too. |
Responding to Compliments
When someone compliments you, you can politely return the compliment or express gratitude. Below is a table with example phrases and responses.
| Situation | Original Phrase | Korean Translation | Response | Response Translation |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Complimenting appearance | You look great today! | 오늘 멋있어 보이네요! (Oneul meosisseo boineyo!) | 선생님도 멋있어 보이네요! (Seonsaengnimdo meosisseo boineyo!) | You look great too! |
| Complimenting skills | You’re a great cook! | 요리를 정말 잘 하시네요! (Yorireul jeongmal jal hasineyo!) | 선생님도 요리를 정말 잘 하시네요! (Seonsaengnimdo yorireul jeongmal jal hasineyo!) | You’re a great cook too! |
| Complimenting work | You did a great job! | 정말 잘 하셨어요! (Jeongmal jal hasyeosseoyo!) | 선생님도 정말 잘 하셨어요! (Seonsaengnimdo jeongmal jal hasyeosseoyo!) | You did a great job too! |
| Complimenting personality | You are very kind. | 정말 친절하시네요. (Jeongmal chinjeolhasineyo.) | 선생님도 정말 친절하시네요. (Seonsaengnimdo jeongmal chinjeolhasineyo.) | You are very kind too. |
| Complimenting intelligence | You are very smart. | 정말 똑똑하시네요. (Jeongmal ttokttokhasineyo.) | 선생님도 정말 똑똑하시네요. (Seonsaengnimdo jeongmal ttokttokhasineyo.) | You are very smart too. |
| Complimenting style | I love your outfit! | 옷 정말 예쁘네요! (Ot jeongmal yeppeuneyo!) | 선생님도 옷 정말 예쁘네요! (Seonsaengnimdo ot jeongmal yeppeuneyo!) | I love your outfit too! |
| Complimenting a talent | You sing very well. | 노래를 정말 잘 부르시네요. (Noraereul jeongmal jal bureusineyo.) | 선생님도 노래를 정말 잘 부르시네요. (Seonsaengnimdo noraereul jeongmal jal bureusineyo.) | You sing very well too. |
| Complimenting effort | You worked really hard. | 정말 열심히 하셨네요. (Jeongmal yeolsimhi hasyeonne요.) | 선생님도 정말 열심히 하셨네요. (Seonsaengnimdo jeongmal yeolsimhi hasyeonne요.) | You worked really hard too. |
| Complimenting creativity | You are very creative. | 정말 창의적이시네요. (Jeongmal changuijeogisineyo.) | 선생님도 정말 창의적이시네요. (Seonsaengnimdo jeongmal changuijeogisineyo.) | You are very creative too. |
| Complimenting someone’s help | You are so helpful. | 정말 도움이 많이 되네요. (Jeongmal doumi mani doene요.) | 선생님도 정말 도움이 많이 되네요. (Seonsaengnimdo jeongmal doumi mani doene요.) | You are so helpful too. |
Usage Rules and Considerations
Using “you too” correctly in Korean involves understanding specific rules and considerations regarding formality, context, and cultural nuances.
Formality Levels
Always consider the formality level of the situation and your relationship with the speaker. Using informal language with someone older or of higher status can be considered disrespectful.
Contextual Appropriateness
The phrase you choose should be appropriate for the context. For example, mirroring “Bok manhi badeuseyo” during Lunar New Year is appropriate, but using it in a casual conversation would be odd.
Cultural Sensitivity
Be mindful of Korean cultural norms regarding respect and hierarchy. Using honorifics appropriately shows respect for the other person.
Mirroring the Phrase
In many cases, the easiest way to say “you too” is to simply repeat the phrase back to the speaker, adding a particle like “do” (도) to indicate “too.”
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Here are some common mistakes to avoid when saying “you too” in Korean:
- Using Dangshineyo (당신에요): This is a direct translation of “you too” but sounds unnatural and awkward.
- Using the wrong formality level: Using informal language in a formal setting, or vice versa.
- Misunderstanding the context: Using a phrase that is not appropriate for the situation.
- Ignoring honorifics: Failing to use honorifics when speaking to someone older or of higher status.
Correct vs. Incorrect Examples:
| Situation | Incorrect | Correct | Explanation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wishing a teacher well | 좋은 하루 보내! (Joeun haru bonae!) | 선생님도 좋은 하루 보내세요! (Seonsaengnimdo joeun haru bonaeseyo!) | Using informal language with a teacher is disrespectful. |
| Expressing agreement with a senior colleague | 나도 그렇게 생각해 (Nado geureoke saenggakae) | 저도 그렇게 생각합니다 (Jeodo geureoke saenggakhamnida) | Using humble form with senior colleague. |
| Responding to “Happy New Year” to your friend | 당신도 새해 복 많이 받으세요 (Dangshindo saehae bok mani badeuseyo) | 너도 새해 복 많이 받아 (Neodo saehae bok mani bada) | Using informal language with close friends is appropriate. |
Practice Exercises
Test your understanding with these practice exercises:
Exercise 1: Choosing the Correct Response
Choose the correct response in each situation:
| Question | Options | Answer |
|---|---|---|
| Your friend says, “오늘 피곤해 (Oneul pigonhae – I’m tired today).” What do you say? | a) 당신에요 (Dangshineyo) b) 나도 (Nado) c) 수고하세요 (Sugohaseyo) | b) 나도 (Nado) |
| Your teacher says, “좋은 하루 보내세요 (Joeun haru bonaeseyo – Have a good day).” What do you say? | a) 좋은 하루 보내 (Joeun haru bonae) b) 선생님도 좋은 하루 보내세요 (Seonsaengnimdo joeun haru bonaeseyo) c) 나도 (Nado) | b) 선생님도 좋은 하루 보내세요 (Seonsaengnimdo joeun haru bonaeseyo) |
| Someone says, “새해 복 많이 받으세요 (Saehae bok manhi badeuseyo – Happy New Year).” What do you say? | a) 네 (Ne) b) 당신도 (Dangshindo) c) 새해 복 많이 받으세요 (Saehae bok manhi badeuseyo) | c) 새해 복 많이 받으세요 (Saehae bok manhi badeuseyo) |
| Your colleague says, “수고하세요 (Sugohaseyo – Keep up the good work).” What do you say? | a) 감사합니다 (Gamsahamnida) b) 당신도요 (Dangshindoyo) c) 수고하세요 (Sugohaseyo) | c) 수고하세요 (Sugohaseyo) |
| Your friend says, “이 영화 정말 재미있어 (I yeonghwa jeongmal jaemiisseo – This movie is really interesting).” What do you say? | a) 네, 그래요 (Ne, geuraeyo) b) 나도 (Nado) c) 몰라요 (Mollayo) | b) 나도 (Nado) |
| Your boss says, “오늘도 열심히 하세요 (Oneuldo yeolsimhi haseyo – Work hard today too).” What do you say? | a) 네 (Ne) b) 당신도요 (Dangshindoyo) c) 네, 부장님도 열심히 하세요 (Ne, bujangnimdo yeolsimhi haseyo) | c) 네, 부장님도 열심히 하세요 (Ne, bujangnimdo yeolsimhi haseyo) |
| Your junior colleague says, “주말 잘 보내세요 (Jumal jal bonaeseyo – Have a good weekend).” What do you say? | a) 네 (Ne) b) 당신도 주말 잘 보내세요 (Dangshindo jumal jal bonaeseyo) c) 그래, 너도 (Geurae, neodo) | b) 당신도 주말 잘 보내세요 (Dangshindo jumal jal bonaeseyo) |
| Your friend says, “이 음식 진짜 맛있다 (I eumsik jinjja masitta – This food is really delicious).” What do you say? | a) 그래 (geurae) b) 나도 (Nado) c) 몰라 (Molla) | b) 나도 (Nado) |
| Your mother says, “건강하세요 (Geonganghaseyo – Stay healthy).” What do you say? | a) 네 (Ne) b) 당신도 (Dangshindo) c) 엄마도 건강하세요 (Eommado geonganghaseyo) | c) 엄마도 건강하세요 (Eommado geonganghaseyo) |
| Your friend says, “너무 행복해 (Neomu haengbokhae – I’m so happy).” What do you say? | a) 그래요 (Geuraeyo) b) 나도 (Nado) c) 왜 (Wae) | b) 나도 (Nado) |
Exercise 2: Fill in the Blanks
Fill in the blanks with the appropriate Korean phrase:
- A: “오늘 너무 더워요 (Oneul neomu deowoyo – It’s so hot today).” B: “________ (Me too).”
- A: “새해 복 많이 받으세요 (Saehae bok manhi badeuseyo – Happy New Year).” B: “________ (Happy New Year).”
- A: “주말 잘 보내세요 (Jumal jal bonaeseyo – Have a good weekend).” B: “________ (You too).”
- A: “수고하세요 (Sugohaseyo – Keep up the good work).” B: “________ (You too).”
- A: “이 노래 진짜 좋다 (I norae jinjja jota – This song is really good).” B: “________ (Me too).”
- A: “오늘도 화이팅 (Oneuldo hwaiting – Let’s do our best today).” B: “________ (You too).”
- A: “잘 자요 (Jal jayo – Good night).” B: “________ (You too).”
- A: “맛있게 드세요 (Masitge deuseyo – Enjoy your meal).” B: “________ (You too).”
- A: “여행 잘 다녀오세요 (Yeohaeng jal danyeooseyo – Have a good trip).” B: “________ (You too).”
- A: “이 책 정말 재미있어요 (I chaek jeongmal jaemiisseoyo – This book is really interesting).” B: “________ (Me too).”
Answer Key:
- 나도 (Nado)
- 새해 복 많이 받으세요 (Saehae bok manhi badeuseyo)
- 주말 잘 보내세요 (Jumal jal bonaeseyo)
- 수고하세요 (Sugohaseyo)
- 나도 (Nado)
- 선배님도 화이팅 (Seonbaenimdo hwaiting)
- 잘 자요 (Jal jayo)
- 맛있게 드세요 (Masitge deuseyo)
- 여행 잘 다녀오세요 (Yeohaeng jal danyeooseyo)
- 나도 (Nado)
Advanced Topics: Nuances and Regional Variations
Beyond the basics, there are more nuanced ways to express “you too” in Korean, as well as regional variations to be aware of.
Nuanced Expressions
Depending on the situation, you can use more specific phrases to convey your meaning. For example, instead of just saying “me too,” you could elaborate on why you agree or share the same sentiment.
Example: A: I’m so happy that it’s Friday (금요일이라서 너무 행복해 – Geumyoil iraseo neomu haengbokhae). B: Me too, I can finally rest (나도, 드디어 쉴 수 있어 – Nado, deudieo swil su isseo).
Regional Variations
While standard Korean is widely understood, regional dialects may have different ways of expressing the same sentiment. These variations are often subtle but can add a local flavor to your conversations.
Example: In some regions, instead of saying “Nado,” you might hear a variation of it, but these instances are rare and standard Korean is usually preferred for clarity.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is Dangshineyo (당신에요) ever used?
While it is a direct translation of “you too,” it’s rarely used in natural conversation and can sound awkward. It’s best to avoid using it and opt for more common phrases like Nado (나도) or mirroring the original phrase.
- How do I know which formality level to use?
Consider the age, status, and relationship with the person you’re speaking to. Use formal language with elders, superiors, or in professional settings. Use standard language with peers or in general situations. Use informal language with close friends, family members, or younger individuals.
- What if I’m not sure which phrase to use?
If you’re unsure, it’s always better to err on the side of caution and use a more formal phrase. You can also observe how native speakers respond in similar situations and learn from their examples.
- Can I use Nado (나도) in all situations?
Nado (나도) is a versatile phrase that can be used in many situations to express agreement or to indicate that you share the same sentiment. However, it’s important to consider the formality level and choose a more appropriate phrase if necessary.
- What’s the difference between Nado (나도) and Jeodo (저도)?
Both Nado (나도) and Jeodo (저도) mean “me too,” but Jeodo (저도) is the humble form. Use Jeodo (저도) when speaking to someone older or of higher status to show respect.
- How do I respond to complex wishes or statements?
For complex wishes or statements, try to understand the underlying sentiment and respond with a phrase that reflects that sentiment. You can also mirror the original phrase, adding a particle like “do” (도) to indicate “too.”
- Are there any situations where I shouldn’t say “you too”?
In some situations, it may be more appropriate to express gratitude or offer a different response instead of simply saying “you too.” For example, if someone does you a favor, it’s better to say “thank you” rather than just mirroring their words.
- Is it okay to ask someone to repeat the phrase if I don’t understand?
Yes, it’s perfectly acceptable to politely ask someone to repeat the phrase if you didn’t understand it. You can say “다시 한번 말씀해 주시겠어요? (Dasi hanbeon 말씀해 jusigesseoyo? – Could you please say that again?)”
Conclusion
Mastering the art of saying “you too” in Korean involves understanding the nuances of formality, context, and cultural sensitivity. By learning the various phrases and their appropriate usage, you can enhance your conversational skills and build stronger connections with Korean speakers.
Remember to consider the situation, your relationship with the speaker, and the level of formality required when choosing the right phrase. Practice regularly and observe how native speakers respond in different contexts to further refine your understanding and fluency.
With consistent effort and attention to detail, you’ll be able to confidently and accurately express “you too” in any Korean conversation.