Usage of '너'
'너' is the informal second-person pronoun in Korean, equivalent to 'you' in English. It is mainly used among close friends, family members, or people of the same age or younger. Using '너' with strangers or elders can be considered rude or disrespectful.
Common Contexts
- Casual conversations with peers or younger people.
- Expressing familiarity or intimacy.
Important Notes
- When speaking politely or formally, Koreans use '당신' or titles instead of '너'.
- Avoid using '너' in formal or professional settings.
Common Collocations
- 너 어디 가니? (Where are you going?) — casual question.
- 너는 정말... (You really...) — emphasizing the subject.
- 너 때문에... (Because of you...) — expressing cause or blame.
Common Mistake
Learners often use '너' too freely, which can offend listeners. Always consider the relationship and setting before using '너'. When in doubt, use polite forms like '당신' or avoid direct pronouns.