In Korean, the words for up and down are Wee (위) for "up" and Ah-reh (아래) for "down." These words are incredibly helpful when describing locations, giving directions, or positioning objects. Let’s dive into how to use these expressions in different scenarios.
Pronunciation
- Wee: [wee] (up)
- Ah-reh: [ah-reh] (down)
Meaning
- 위 (Wee): Up, above
- 아래 (Ah-reh): Down, below
More Expressions with 위 (Wee) and 아래 (Ah-reh)
Here are some practical expressions using up and down to help you describe locations and movements in Korean:
위로 가다 (Weero gada)
- Meaning: Go up
- Example: 계단을 위로 가세요. (Gyedaneul weero gaseyo.) – Go up the stairs.
아래로 내려가다 (Ahrero naeryeogada)
- Meaning: Go down
- Example: 엘리베이터를 타고 아래로 내려가세요. (Ellebeitoreul tago ahrero naeryeogaseyo.) – Take the elevator down.
위층 (Weecheung)
- Meaning: Upstairs
- Example: 그녀는 위층에 있어요. (Geunyeoneun weecheunge isseoyo.) – She is upstairs.
아래층 (Ah-rehcheung)
- Meaning: Downstairs
- Example: 아래층에서 기다리고 있어요. (Ahrehcheungeseo gidarigo isseoyo.) – They are waiting downstairs.
위에 있다 (Wee-e itda)
- Meaning: To be on top
- Example: 책이 탁자 위에 있어요. (Chaegi takja wee-e isseoyo.) – The book is on top of the table.
아래에 놓다 (Ahreh-e notda)
- Meaning: To place below
- Example: 가방을 의자 아래에 놓았어요. (Gabangeul uija ahreh-e noasseoyo.) – I placed the bag under the chair.
Conclusion
With 위 (Wee) and 아래 (Ah-reh), you can easily describe vertical locations, movements, and the position of objects in Korean. These basic terms are frequently used in daily conversation, so mastering them will help you navigate and describe your surroundings better. Keep practicing these phrases to enhance your Korean vocabulary!
Happy learning!