Level 2

생신

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Meaning and Usage

"생신" is a respectful term used specifically for the birthdays of elders or people of higher social status, such as parents, grandparents, or teachers. It is more formal and polite than the general word "생일" (birthday).

Politeness and Context

Use "생신" when addressing or talking about the birthdays of older family members or respected individuals. It shows respect and honor. For casual or peer birthdays, use "생일" instead.

Common Collocations

  • 생신 축하드립니다: A formal way to say "Happy birthday" to elders.
  • 생신 선물: Birthday gift for an elder.
  • 생신 잔치: Birthday party for an elder.

Tips

Do not confuse "생신" with "생일". "생신" is reserved for elders and is always used with honorifics. Using "생신" for peers or younger people sounds unnatural. Remember to use polite expressions like "축하드립니다" when using "생신".

Example Sentences

오늘은 할아버지 생신이라서 가족들이 모두 모였어요.

Oneureun harabeoji saengsiniraseo gajokdeuri modu moyeosseoyo.

Today is grandfather's birthday, so the whole family gathered.

생신 축하드립니다. 건강하세요.

Saengsin chukadeurimnida. Geonganghaseyo.

Happy birthday (honorific). Wishing you good health.

어머니 생신 선물로 꽃다발을 준비했어요.

Eomeoni saengsin seonmullo kkotdabal-eul junbihaesseoyo.

I prepared a bouquet as a birthday gift for my mother.