Formality and Informality in Target Language
In the Korean language, formality and informality are probably one of the biggest aspects to the language and enhances the challenging nature of learning the language. The Korean language, according to some research found on blogs and websites, has seven formal levels of the language, but with three levels of politeness. However, in terms of practicality, using the three levels of politeness is more common, as some levels of the formality are outdated or were reserved for speaking to nobles and kings. The three levels are: deferential polite, standard polite, and common. All three affect the way one can use certain words for vocabulary and the grammar used in sentences.
The two most common levels of politeness are standard polite and common, referred to as “jondae-mal” and “ban-mal”.
However, to get even more practical, this semester I will mostly just be focused on standard polite and common. Standard polite is probably my safest bet in learning, as it will mostly affect the way I end certain sentences and what words I should use to replace others.
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