편지

§ What '편지' Means

DEFINITION

편지 (pyeonji) is a noun that means 'letter' in English. This refers to a written message, typically on paper, sent to another person.

You'll use 편지 when talking about a physical letter you write and send, or a letter you receive. It's a very common word, especially if you're talking about written communication.

§ Examples of '편지' in Sentences

Translation hint: I wrote a letter to my friend.

Translation hint: I sent a letter to my loved one.

Translation hint: Who sent this letter?

§ Related Vocabulary

• 편지를 쓰다 (pyeonjireul sseuda): to write a letter
• 편지를 보내다 (pyeonjireul bonaeda): to send a letter
• 편지를 받다 (pyeonjireul batda): to receive a letter
• 우편 (upyeon): mail, postal service
• 우체국 (ucheguk): post office

§ '편지' vs. Similar Words

While '편지' directly translates to 'letter,' there are other words in Korean that convey similar ideas of written communication, but they are used in different contexts.

이메일 (imail)

This is the direct transliteration of 'email.' You would use 이메일 when referring to an electronic message sent via the internet. It's the modern equivalent of a letter, but digital.

For example, you'd say: 저는 친구에게 이메일을 보냈어요. (I sent an email to my friend.) You wouldn't use 편지 for an email.

문자 (munja)

This word refers to a 'text message' or 'SMS.' It's typically a short, informal message sent via a mobile phone.

For example: 저는 친구에게 문자를 보냈어요. (I sent a text message to my friend.) Again, you wouldn't use 편지 here.

글 (geul)

This is a broader term that means 'writing,' 'text,' or 'article.' It can refer to any piece of written material, but not specifically a letter to someone.

You might see 글 used for a blog post (블로그 글 - beullogeu geul) or a written composition. While a letter is a type of '글', you would use the more specific term 편지 when referring to a personal letter.

In summary, use 편지 when you mean a physical letter. For electronic messages, use 이메일 (email) or 문자 (text message). While 글 is a general term for writing, it's not specific enough for a personal letter. Knowing these distinctions will help you communicate more precisely in Korean.