Okay, so there’s this word in Korean — 우리 — that you’re going to hear all the time. It technically means “our” or “we,” but Koreans use it in ways that’ll make you do a double take. It’s not just about things you share with someone. It’s also about connection, culture, and, honestly, vibes.
Let me break it down so you can sound natural and not accidentally weird when you use it.
Contents
- Why Koreans Love ‘우리’
- When to Use It
- When Not to Use It
- Tricky Situations
- Practice Time
- Why It Matters
Why Koreans Love ‘우리’
Here’s the thing: Koreans use 우리 to create a sense of belonging. It’s not just about literal ownership; it’s about the feeling of togetherness.
For example:
- 우리 집 = “Our house”
Even if it’s just your house and no one else lives there, you’d still say 우리 집 because it feels more inclusive. - 우리 엄마 = “Our mom”
No, you’re not suddenly sharing a mom with everyone around you. It’s just how people talk.
When to Use It
You’ll mostly use 우리 when you’re talking about things or people that feel like part of a shared space or community.
1. Talking About Family
In English, you’d say, “My mom” or “My sister.” But in Korean, it’s usually 우리 엄마 (our mom) or 우리 언니 (our older sister). It’s not because your family belongs to someone else—it’s just a warm, collective way of speaking.
2. Referring to Groups You’re Part Of
- 우리 회사 = “Our company”
Even if you hate your job, it’s still 우리 회사 because you’re part of it. - 우리 반 = “Our class”
Same deal—it’s about your group, not ownership.
3. Talking About Shared Experiences
- 우리 나라 = “Our country”
Koreans use this all the time to refer to South Korea. It’s not about who owns the country—it’s about pride and connection.
When Not to Use It
There are times when 우리 would sound… off.
1. Talking About Things That Aren’t Shared
If you’re talking about something that’s clearly yours and not connected to others, stick with 내 (“my”):
- 내 핸드폰 = “My phone”
Not 우리 핸드폰, because it’s not a community device (unless it is, in which case… you do you).
2. When You’re the Only Expert
If you’re sharing your unique expertise or specialized knowledge, using 우리 might feel a bit forced:
- 제 전공 = “My major/specialty”
Unless you’re talking about your whole department’s focus, keep it personal.
3. Personal Achievements or Milestones
When discussing individual accomplishments, 우리 could steal your thunder:
- 내 졸업식 = “My graduation”
Sure, your family’s there to celebrate, but it’s your moment to shine. No need for 우리 졸업식 here.
Tricky Situations
Sometimes, it’s not clear whether to use 우리 or 내. Here’s how to figure it out:
- Does it involve a group or connection?
Use 우리. - Is it just about you?
Use 내.
Practice Time
Let’s say you’re talking about your house, your family, and your phone. Which do you use?
- Our house = 우리 집
- Our mom = 우리 엄마
- My phone = 내 핸드폰
Why It Matters
Learning when to use 우리 isn’t just about grammar—it’s about understanding Korean culture. It shows you get the nuances of connection, shared identity, and why Koreans talk the way they do. Plus, using it naturally will make you sound so much more fluent.
Try it out next time you’re chatting in Korean, and let me know how it goes!