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A2 noun #7,000 most common 9 min read

애인

Top 7,000

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips 애인 in 30 Seconds

Explanation 애인 in your Level:

At the A1 level, '애인' is introduced as a basic noun to describe a person. Beginners learn that it means 'lover' or 'boyfriend/girlfriend.' The focus is on simple existence sentences like '애인이 있어요' (I have a lover) or '애인이 없어요' (I don't have a lover). At this stage, learners are not expected to understand the deep cultural nuances but should be able to recognize the word in K-pop songs and basic introductions. It is a useful word for basic self-introductions where one might mention their relationship status. The pronunciation is simple enough for beginners to master, focusing on the two distinct syllables. Learners should also be taught that it is a gender-neutral alternative to '남자친구' and '여자친구,' making it a handy 'all-in-one' word to memorize early on.

At the A2 level, learners start using '애인' with basic action verbs and particles. They learn to say things like '애인하고 영화를 봐요' (I watch a movie with my lover) or '애인에게 선물을 줘요' (I give a gift to my lover). This level introduces the idea of 'making' or 'getting' a lover using the verb '생기다.' A2 students should be able to describe their lover using simple adjectives like '친절한 애인' (kind lover) or '예쁜 애인' (pretty lover). They also begin to distinguish between '애인' and '친구' (friend), ensuring they don't accidentally imply a romantic relationship when they mean a platonic one. The focus is on practical, everyday communication about one's social and romantic life.

At the B1 level, the nuance of '애인' versus '연인' or '남친/여친' becomes important. Intermediate learners should understand that '애인' sounds a bit more serious and mature. They can use the word in more complex sentence structures, such as '애인이 생기면 같이 여행을 가고 싶어요' (If I get a lover, I want to go on a trip together). B1 learners are also introduced to common phrases and idioms involving '애인,' such as '애인 대행' (lover for hire) in the context of social discussions. They can participate in conversations about ideal types and dating culture in Korea, using '애인' as a standard term for a romantic partner. They should also be comfortable using the word in different speech levels (polite vs. casual).

At the B2 level, students explore the word '애인' through the lens of Korean media and literature. They analyze how the word is used in song lyrics to convey deep emotion and how it differs from the more clinical or modern terms. B2 learners can discuss the social implications of having an '애인' in Korean society, including topics like 'public relationships' (공개 연애) among celebrities. They should be able to handle complex grammar patterns with '애인,' such as '애인이라기보다는 그냥 친한 친구예요' (He's more of a close friend than a lover). This level requires a grasp of the word's versatility in various registers, from formal interviews to casual gossip among friends.

At the C1 level, learners delve into the historical and etymological roots of '애인.' They study how the meaning of the word has shifted from the Japanese colonial period to the present day. C1 students can read and understand literary works where '애인' might carry a slightly different connotation, such as a forbidden lover or a deeply spiritual connection. They are expected to use the word with high-level precision, choosing it over '연인' or '배우자' (spouse) to convey specific shades of meaning. They can also discuss the linguistic evolution of romantic terms in Korean, comparing '애인' to modern slang and English loanwords. Their usage should reflect a native-like understanding of social context and emotional weight.

At the C2 level, the learner has a masterly command of '애인.' They can use the word in academic discussions about sociology, gender roles, and linguistics. They understand the subtle irony or humor when '애인' is used in specific rhetorical ways. C2 learners can critique the use of the word in classic Korean cinema versus modern dramas, noting the shift in societal values reflected in the language. They are capable of translating the word into English or other languages while preserving its specific Korean 'flavor,' recognizing that 'lover,' 'partner,' and 'boyfriend/girlfriend' are not always perfect equivalents. At this stage, '애인' is not just a vocabulary word but a cultural concept they can manipulate and discuss with nuance and sophistication.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

애인 in 30 Seconds

애인 (Aein) means lover or romantic partner.
It is a gender-neutral term for boyfriend or girlfriend.
Commonly used in serious contexts, songs, and K-dramas.
Comes from the Chinese characters for 'Love' and 'Person'.

The Korean word 애인 (Aein) is a foundational noun in the realm of human relationships, specifically romantic ones. At its core, it translates to 'lover' or 'romantic partner.' It is composed of two Hanja (Chinese characters): 愛 (애 - love) and 人 (인 - person). Literally, it means 'a person who is loved' or 'a person who loves.' Unlike English, where 'lover' can sometimes carry a heavy sexual or illicit connotation depending on context, the Korean '애인' is a standard, neutral, yet deeply affectionate way to refer to someone you are dating seriously.

Semantic Range: While '남자친구' (boyfriend) and '여자친구' (girlfriend) are gender-specific and very common among younger generations, '애인' is gender-neutral. It is frequently used when the gender of the partner is irrelevant to the conversation or when one wants to use a slightly more mature or formal tone than the colloquial '남친/여친'.
Social Nuance: In modern South Korea, using '애인' can sometimes imply a relationship that has moved beyond the 'casual dating' phase but hasn't yet reached marriage. It is the person you would introduce to your family as your significant other. However, be aware that in older literary contexts or very specific modern dramas, it can occasionally refer to an 'extra-marital partner,' though this is less common in everyday conversation today.

지수 씨, 혹시 애인 있어요? (Jisoo, do you happen to have a lover/boyfriend?)

Historically, the term has shifted. In the early 20th century, it was used quite broadly for anyone one felt affection for. Today, it is strictly romantic. If you are in your 20s or 30s, you might hear older adults ask about your '애인' because '남자친구/여자친구' can sound a bit youthful to them. Conversely, using '애인' yourself can make you sound more mature and serious about your relationship. It is a word that carries weight; it isn't used for a 'crush' or someone you just met once.

제 애인은 정말 다정해요. (My lover is really kind/sweet.)

Professional Contexts: In a workplace, if you are close with your colleagues, they might ask about your '애인'. It is more respectful than assuming gender and asking about a boyfriend or girlfriend specifically, although in modern urban Korea, '여자친구/남자친구' has largely taken over as the default.

In summary, '애인' is your go-to word for 'significant other' when you want to sound mature, gender-neutral, or when you are referring to the concept of a romantic partner in a general sense. It is a warm word that bridges the gap between the casual 'friend' and the formal 'spouse.'

Using 애인 correctly requires an understanding of Korean particles and the verbs that naturally pair with romantic relationships. Because '애인' is a noun, it functions as the subject, object, or topic of a sentence. The most common verb it pairs with is 있다 (to have/exist) and 생기다 (to come into being/to get).

Possession and Existence: To say 'I have a lover,' you use '애인이 있어요.' To ask 'Do you have a lover?' you use '애인 있어요?'. The particle '이' is the subject marker, often dropped in casual speech. If you recently started dating someone, you say '애인이 생겼어요' (I got a lover/boyfriend/girlfriend).

민수 씨는 애인이 생겨서 아주 행복해 보여요. (Minsu looks very happy because he got a lover.)

When describing actions you do with your partner, use the particle -과/와 (with) or the more colloquial -하고. For example, '애인과 데이트해요' (I am going on a date with my lover). If you are introducing your partner to someone, you would say '이쪽은 제 애인이에요' (This is my lover/partner).

Descriptive Usage: You can place adjectives before '애인' to describe them. '멋진 애인' (a cool/handsome lover), '예쁜 애인' (a pretty lover), '착한 애인' (a kind lover). Note that in Korean, the adjective must be in the noun-modifying form (ending in -ㄴ or -은).

크리스마스에 애인에게 줄 선물을 샀어요. (I bought a gift to give to my lover on Christmas.)

In more complex sentences, '애인' can be used with the possessive particle -의 (though often omitted). '애인의 생일' (lover's birthday). It can also be used in the negative: '애인이 없어요' (I don't have a lover). When speaking to someone older or in a position of authority, you might use the honorific version of the verb, but the word '애인' itself doesn't change into an honorific form (unlike 'wife' which becomes '사모님' or 'husband' which becomes '남편분').

Common Verb Pairings: 1. 애인을 사귀다 (to date a lover)
2. 애인과 헤어지다 (to break up with a lover)
3. 애인을 자랑하다 (to show off one's lover)
4. 애인을 기다리다 (to wait for one's lover)

If you are a fan of Korean media, you will encounter 애인 everywhere. From the heart-wrenching lyrics of K-pop ballads to the dramatic confrontations in K-dramas, this word is a staple of emotional storytelling. In songs, '애인' is often used because its two syllables fit perfectly into melodic rhythms, and its Hanja roots give it a slightly more poetic feel than the English-derived '남자친구'.

노래 가사: "내 애인이 되어줄래?" (Song lyric: "Will you be my lover?")

In K-dramas, you'll hear this word during 'the talk'—when characters are defining their relationship. A common trope is the 'fake lover' (가짜 애인), where two characters pretend to be in a relationship to satisfy their parents or achieve a goal. You might also hear '애인 대행' (lover for hire/rental lover), a service sometimes mentioned in plots involving social pressure to be in a relationship.

Variety Shows and Reality TV: In reality dating shows like 'Transit Love' (환승연애) or 'I Am Solo' (나는 솔로), participants and hosts frequently use '애인' to discuss the concept of a partner. It is used when talking about past lovers (전 애인) or the ideal type of lover they are looking for.

In daily life, you'll hear it in casual gossip. Koreans are often very interested in the relationship status of their friends and colleagues. Questions like '애인 생겼다며?' (I heard you got a lover?) or '애인이랑 뭐 했어?' (What did you do with your lover?) are very common. It's also a word you'll find in literature and poetry, where it carries a sense of longing and deep connection.

친구 사이: "야, 너 애인 사진 좀 보여줘!" (Between friends: "Hey, show me a picture of your lover!")

Internet and Social Media: On platforms like Instagram or KakaoTalk, people use hashtags like #애인있음 (has a lover) or #애인구함 (looking for a lover - often used jokingly). It's a versatile word that fits both a serious romantic post and a lighthearted comment.

While 애인 is a standard word, learners often trip up on its nuance and social context. The most common mistake is using it to describe a spouse. In English, 'lover' is rarely used for a husband or wife, and in Korean, '애인' is similarly reserved for the pre-marital phase. Once you are married, you should use '남편' (husband) or '아내/부인' (wife).

Mistake 1: Confusing with 'Friend': Do not confuse '애인' with '친구' (friend). If you tell someone '제 애인이에요' when you mean 'he is my friend,' you are telling them you are in a romantic relationship. To say 'male friend' (platonic), use '남사친' (nam-sa-chin); for 'female friend,' use '여사친' (yeo-sa-chin).

Incorrect: 결혼한 지 10년 된 제 애인입니다. (My lover of 10 years of marriage.)
Correct: 결혼한 지 10년 된 제 남편/아내입니다.

Another mistake is overusing '애인' in very casual settings where '남자친구' or '여자친구' would be more natural. While not 'wrong,' using '애인' as a teenager or college student can sound a bit like you are trying to talk like a character in an old novel or a 40-year-old. It has a 'heavier' feel than the light '남친/여친'.

Mistake 2: Pronunciation: Learners often mispronounce the '애' (ae) and '인' (in). Ensure the 'ae' is a clear open vowel, and the 'in' has a crisp 'n' sound at the end. Don't let it slide into '안' (an) or '은' (eun).

Finally, remember that '애인' is a noun. You cannot say '애인해요' to mean 'let's be lovers.' You must use a verb like '사귀다' (to date). The correct phrase would be '우리 애인 사이가 되자' (Let's become a couple/lovers) or more commonly '우리 사귀자' (Let's date).

Korean has several words for romantic partners, each with a different 'flavor' or level of formality. Understanding these will help you choose the right word for the right situation. While 애인 is versatile, these alternatives are often preferred in specific contexts.

남자친구 / 여자친구 (Nam-ja-chin-gu / Yeo-ja-chin-gu): These are the most common terms for 'boyfriend' and 'girlfriend.' They are used by people of all ages but are the standard for youth. They are literal translations: 'male friend' and 'female friend,' but in this specific combination, they always mean romantic partner.
연인 (Yeon-in): This is a more poetic and literary term for 'lovers' or 'a couple.' You see this in book titles, movie names, and news reports. It refers to the 'couple' as a unit more than '애인' does. For example, '연인들의 축제' (A festival for couples).

Comparison:
- 애인: My personal romantic partner.
- 연인: A romantic couple (often used plural or generally).

In very casual speech, especially among Gen Z, you will hear 남친 (Nam-chin) and 여친 (Yeo-chin). These are abbreviations of the full words and are used almost exclusively in texting or with close friends. Using these in a formal introduction would be inappropriate.

짝 (Jjak): This means 'mate' or 'half.' It's often used in the context of finding one's soulmate ('평생의 짝'). It's a bit more sentimental and can refer to a spouse as well.
반려자 (Ban-ryeo-ja): This is a very formal term meaning 'life partner.' It is usually reserved for spouses or very long-term partners with whom you share your life. You often hear it in the term '반려견' (companion dog) as well, showing the level of life-long commitment implied.

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

While '애인' in Korean means a romantic partner, the same characters in Chinese (Àirén) are often used to mean 'spouse' (husband or wife). In Japanese, the same characters (Aijin) often imply a 'mistress' or an illicit lover. Be careful when using this word across different East Asian languages!

Pronunciation Guide

UK /ɛː.in/

US /eɪ.ɪn/

Stress is equal on both syllables, but the first syllable '애' is often slightly longer in duration.

Rhymes With

개인 (Gae-in - Individual) 폐인 (Pye-in - Cripple/Wreck) 시인 (Si-in - Poet) 미인 (Mi-in - Beauty) 부인 (Bu-in - Wife/Denial) 사인 (Sa-in - Signature/Cause of death) 대인 (Dae-in - Adult/Great person) 외인 (Oe-in - Foreigner)

Common Errors

Pronouncing '애' like '아' (ain).
Pronouncing '인' like '인' with a very soft 'n' that sounds like '이'.
Merging the two syllables into one sliding sound.
Using a hard English 'r' sound if they confuse it with other words.
Putting too much stress on the second syllable.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 2/5

The word is easy to read as it consists of two simple syllables.

Writing 2/5

Simple characters to write, though the Hanja is more complex.

Speaking 3/5

Requires correct vowel distinction between 'ae' and 'e'.

Listening 2/5

Very common word, easy to pick out in songs and dramas.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

사랑 (Love) 사람 (Person) 친구 (Friend) 남자 (Man) 여자 (Woman)

Learn Next

연애 (Dating) 결혼 (Marriage) 소개팅 (Blind date) 고백 (Confession) 이상형 (Ideal type)

Advanced

배우자 (Spouse) 반려자 (Life partner) 정인 (Old term for lover) 치정 (Blind passion/lust)

Grammar to Know

Noun + 하고 (With)

애인하고 영화를 봐요.

Noun + 이/가 생기다 (To get/occur)

애인이 생겼어요.

Noun + 에게 (To - person)

애인에게 선물을 줘요.

Noun + Modifier (Adjective)

멋진 애인

Noun + 사이 (Between)

우리 둘은 애인 사이예요.

Examples by Level

애인이 있어요.

I have a lover.

애인 (noun) + 이 (subject marker) + 있어요 (to have/exist).

애인이 없어요.

I don't have a lover.

애인 (noun) + 이 (subject marker) + 없어요 (to not have).

제 애인입니다.

This is my lover.

제 (my) + 애인 (noun) + 입니다 (is - formal).

애인이 예뻐요.

My lover is pretty.

애인 (noun) + 이 (subject marker) + 예뻐요 (is pretty).

애인이 친절해요.

My lover is kind.

애인 (noun) + 이 (subject marker) + 친절해요 (is kind).

애인 이름이 뭐예요?

What is your lover's name?

애인 (noun) + 이름 (name) + 이 (subject marker) + 뭐예요 (what is).

애인하고 밥을 먹어요.

I eat a meal with my lover.

애인 (noun) + 하고 (with) + 밥 (meal) + 을 (object marker) + 먹어요 (eat).

애인이 학생이에요.

My lover is a student.

애인 (noun) + 이 (subject marker) + 학생 (student) + 이에요 (is).

어제 애인하고 영화를 봤어요.

I watched a movie with my lover yesterday.

어제 (yesterday) + 애인하고 (with lover) + 영화 (movie) + 봤어요 (watched).

애인에게 줄 선물을 샀어요.

I bought a gift to give to my lover.

애인에게 (to lover) + 줄 (to give - future modifier) + 선물 (gift).

드디어 애인이 생겼어요!

I finally got a lover!

드디어 (finally) + 애인 (lover) + 이 (subject marker) + 생겼어요 (came into being/got).

제 애인은 요리를 잘해요.

My lover is good at cooking.

애인 (lover) + 은 (topic marker) + 요리 (cooking) + 를 잘해요 (is good at).

주말에 애인과 공원에 갈 거예요.

I will go to the park with my lover on the weekend.

주말에 (on the weekend) + 애인과 (with lover) + 갈 거예요 (will go).

애인의 생일 파티를 준비해요.

I am preparing a birthday party for my lover.

애인의 (lover's) + 생일 파티 (birthday party) + 를 준비해요 (prepare).

애인이 보고 싶어요.

I miss my lover.

애인 (lover) + 이 (subject marker) + 보고 싶어요 (want to see/miss).

애인하고 자주 전화해요.

I often talk on the phone with my lover.

애인하고 (with lover) + 자주 (often) + 전화해요 (call).

애인이 생기면 제일 먼저 여행을 가고 싶어요.

If I get a lover, I want to go on a trip first.

애인이 생기면 (If a lover is made/gotten) + 여행 (travel) + 가고 싶어요 (want to go).

제 애인은 마음이 아주 따뜻한 사람이에요.

My lover is a person with a very warm heart.

마음이 따뜻한 (warm-hearted) + 사람 (person) + 이에요 (is).

애인과 헤어져서 마음이 너무 아파요.

My heart hurts so much because I broke up with my lover.

애인과 헤어져서 (Because I broke up with lover) + 마음이 아파요 (heart hurts).

애인을 부모님께 소개해 드렸어요.

I introduced my lover to my parents.

애인을 (lover - object) + 부모님께 (to parents - honorific) + 소개해 드렸어요 (introduced).

애인 사이에는 비밀이 없어야 한다고 생각해요.

I think there should be no secrets between lovers.

애인 사이에 (between lovers) + 비밀 (secret) + 없어야 한다 (must not have).

요즘 애인이랑 다투는 일이 많아졌어요.

Lately, the number of arguments with my lover has increased.

애인이랑 (with lover) + 다투는 일 (arguing things) + 많아졌어요 (became many).

애인이 좋아하는 꽃을 선물로 준비했어요.

I prepared the flowers my lover likes as a gift.

애인이 좋아하는 (that lover likes) + 꽃 (flower) + 선물로 (as a gift).

애인과 함께라면 어디든 갈 수 있어요.

If I am with my lover, I can go anywhere.

애인과 함께라면 (If together with lover) + 어디든 (anywhere) + 갈 수 있어요 (can go).

그는 애인을 위해 자신의 꿈을 포기할 정도로 사랑했어요.

He loved her so much that he was willing to give up his dream for his lover.

-을 정도로 (to the extent of) + 사랑했어요 (loved).

애인 관계에서도 개인의 사생활은 존중받아야 합니다.

Even in a relationship with a lover, individual privacy must be respected.

애인 관계 (lover relationship) + 사생활 (privacy) + 존중받아야 한다 (must be respected).

연예인들이 애인과의 결별 소식을 전해 팬들을 안타깝게 했습니다.

Celebrities announced their breakup with their lovers, making fans feel sorry.

결별 소식 (breakup news) + 전해 (conveying) + 안타깝게 했습니다 (made someone feel bad).

애인이 변한 것 같아서 불안한 마음이 들어요.

I feel anxious because it seems like my lover has changed.

변한 것 같아서 (because it seems they changed) + 불안한 마음 (anxious feeling).

오랜 시간 동안 애인으로 지내다가 드디어 결혼하게 되었어요.

After being lovers for a long time, we finally ended up getting married.

애인으로 지내다가 (after spending time as lovers) + 결혼하게 되었다 (ended up marrying).

애인에게 서운한 점이 있으면 바로 말하는 게 좋아요.

If there's something you're upset about with your lover, it's good to say it right away.

서운한 점 (upsetting point) + 바로 말하는 게 (speaking right away).

애인이 군대에 가서 기다리는 것을 '고무신을 신는다'고 해요.

Waiting for a lover who went to the military is called 'wearing rubber shoes.'

군대에 가서 (going to military) + 기다리는 것 (waiting) + -라고 해요 (is called).

애인과 취미 생활을 공유하는 것은 관계에 큰 도움이 됩니다.

Sharing hobbies with a lover is a great help to the relationship.

취미 생활 (hobby life) + 공유하는 것 (sharing) + 관계 (relationship).

작가는 소설 속에서 애인을 잃은 슬픔을 절절하게 묘사했다.

The author vividly described the sorrow of losing a lover in the novel.

애인을 잃은 슬픔 (sorrow of losing a lover) + 절절하게 (vividly/heartfelt) + 묘사했다 (described).

진정한 애인이란 서로의 성장을 돕는 동반자여야 한다.

A true lover should be a companion who helps each other's growth.

진정한 (true) + 애인이란 (as for a lover...) + 동반자 (companion).

그는 죽는 순간까지도 애인의 이름을 나지막이 불렀다.

Until the moment of death, he called his lover's name in a low voice.

죽는 순간까지 (until the moment of death) + 나지막이 (in a low voice).

애인 사이의 갈등은 대화의 부재에서 비롯되는 경우가 많다.

Conflicts between lovers often stem from a lack of communication.

갈등 (conflict) + 대화의 부재 (absence of dialogue) + 비롯되다 (stem from).

그녀는 애인에 대한 배신감으로 인해 한동안 힘든 시간을 보냈다.

She had a hard time for a while due to the sense of betrayal by her lover.

배신감 (sense of betrayal) + -으로 인해 (due to) + 힘든 시간 (hard time).

애인이 건넨 따뜻한 위로의 한마디가 그에게 큰 힘이 되었다.

The warm word of comfort handed by his lover became a great strength to him.

건넨 (handed/passed) + 위로의 한마디 (a word of comfort).

애인과의 추억이 깃든 장소를 다시 찾으니 감회가 새로웠다.

Visiting the place filled with memories of my lover again, I was filled with new emotions.

추억이 깃든 (imbued with memories) + 감회가 새롭다 (to have fresh emotions).

애인을 향한 변함없는 사랑은 많은 이들에게 감동을 주었다.

Unchanging love toward a lover moved many people.

변함없는 (unchanging) + 감동을 주었다 (gave a moving feeling).

현대 사회에서 '애인'이라는 개념은 전통적인 연애관을 넘어 다변화되고 있다.

In modern society, the concept of 'aein' is diversifying beyond traditional views of dating.

다변화되고 있다 (is being diversified) + 연애관 (view of dating).

문학 비평가들은 시인의 작품에서 '애인'이 조국에 대한 은유라고 분석하기도 한다.

Literary critics sometimes analyze 'aein' in the poet's work as a metaphor for the fatherland.

은유 (metaphor) + 분석하기도 한다 (also analyze).

애인 간의 정서적 유대감은 인간의 심리적 안정에 중추적인 역할을 한다.

The emotional bond between lovers plays a pivotal role in human psychological stability.

정서적 유대감 (emotional bond) + 중추적인 역할 (pivotal role).

그의 소설은 애인이라는 이름 아래 자행되는 집착과 폭력을 날카롭게 꼬집는다.

His novel sharply criticizes the obsession and violence committed under the name of 'lover'.

자행되는 (committed) + 집착 (obsession) + 꼬집는다 (to pinch/criticize sharply).

애인이라는 존재는 때로는 가장 가까운 타인이자 가장 낯선 자아이기도 하다.

A lover is sometimes the closest stranger and the most unfamiliar self.

타인 (stranger/other) + 낯선 자아 (unfamiliar self).

애인을 향한 맹목적인 헌신이 가져오는 비극적 결말을 다룬 희곡이다.

It is a play that deals with the tragic end brought about by blind devotion to a lover.

맹목적인 헌신 (blind devotion) + 비극적 결말 (tragic ending).

애인과의 관계를 지속하기 위해 필요한 것은 열정만이 아니라 상호 간의 인내이다.

What is needed to sustain a relationship with a lover is not just passion, but mutual patience.

지속하기 위해 (in order to sustain) + 상호 간의 (mutual).

애인이라는 호칭 속에 담긴 사회적 함의와 역사적 변천을 고찰해 볼 필요가 있다.

It is necessary to examine the social implications and historical changes contained in the title 'aein'.

사회적 함의 (social implication) + 역사적 변천 (historical change).

Common Collocations

애인이 생기다

애인이 있다

애인과 헤어지다

애인을 사귀다

전 애인

가짜 애인

애인 사이

애인을 자랑하다

애인 대행

애인에게 선물하다

Common Phrases

애인 구함

— Looking for a lover. Often used as a joke or on dating apps.

내 SNS 프로필에 '애인 구함'이라고 썼어.

애인 있어요?

— Do you have a lover? A standard question about relationship status.

실례지만, 애인 있어요?

애인이 아까워요

— The lover is too good for them. Used when someone thinks a person's partner is superior to them.

그 남자는 애인이 너무 아까워.

애인 눈에 콩깍지

— Love is blind. Literally, 'bean pods in the lover's eyes.'

애인 눈에 콩깍지가 씌었네.

애인과 밀당하다

— To play hard to get with a lover. 'Push and pull.'

애인하고 너무 밀당하지 마.

애인 자랑

— Bragging about one's lover.

오늘도 애인 자랑이 끝이 없네.

애인 같은 친구

— A friend who is like a lover. Someone very close and caring.

우리는 애인 같은 친구 사이야.

애인을 뺏기다

— To have one's lover taken away by someone else.

친구한테 애인을 뺏겼어.

애인과 화해하다

— To make up with one's lover after a fight.

드디어 애인과 화해했어.

애인바라기

— Someone who only looks at/thinks about their lover.

그는 완전 애인바라기야.

Often Confused With

애인 vs 친구

Means 'friend.' '애인' is strictly romantic, '친구' is platonic.

애인 vs 연인

More poetic and refers to the couple as a pair. '애인' refers to the individual partner.

애인 vs 부인

Means 'wife.' '애인' is for dating, '부인' is for marriage.

Idioms & Expressions

"애인 눈에 콩깍지가 씌다"

— To be so in love that you can't see the other person's flaws.

내 친구는 애인 눈에 콩깍지가 제대로 씌었어.

Casual

"임자 있는 몸"

— Someone who already has a partner/lover. 'Occupied body.'

건드리지 마, 저 사람은 임자 있는 몸이야.

Informal

"짚신도 짝이 있다"

— Even a straw shoe has a mate. Everyone has a soulmate somewhere.

걱정 마, 짚신도 짝이 있다잖아.

Proverb

"눈에서 멀어지면 마음에서도 멀어진다"

— Out of sight, out of mind. Often said about long-distance lovers.

애인이 유학 가니까 눈에서 멀어지면 마음에서도 멀어질까 봐 걱정돼.

Common

"사랑에 눈이 멀다"

— To be blinded by love.

그는 애인 때문에 사랑에 눈이 멀어 아무것도 안 보여.

Neutral

"열 번 찍어 안 넘어가는 나무 없다"

— If you strike a tree ten times, it will fall. Keep trying to win someone's heart.

그녀를 애인으로 만들려고 열 번 찍어 보고 있어.

Proverb

"사랑은 움직이는 거야"

— Love moves/changes. A famous line from a commercial about changing lovers.

어떻게 벌써 다른 사람을 사귀어? 사랑은 움직이는 거니까.

Pop Culture

"임자 없는 나룻배"

— A ferry boat without an owner. Refers to a single person anyone can approach.

그녀는 지금 임자 없는 나룻배야.

Literary

"깨가 쏟아지다"

— To be very happy and sweet in a relationship (like sesame seeds pouring out).

두 사람 애인 사이가 아주 깨가 쏟아지네.

Casual

"죽고 못 살다"

— To be madly in love (can't live or die without them).

그 둘은 애인 없으면 죽고 못 살아.

Casual

Easily Confused

애인 vs 개인

Sounds similar (Gae-in vs Aein).

개인 means 'individual' or 'private,' while 애인 means 'lover.'

이것은 개인적인 문제입니다. (This is a private matter.)

애인 vs 시인

Same ending sound (Si-in vs Aein).

시인 means 'poet.'

그는 유명한 시인입니다. (He is a famous poet.)

애인 vs 아내

Both refer to a female partner.

아내 is specifically a 'wife' (married), whereas 애인 is a 'lover' (dating).

제 아내를 소개합니다. (Introducing my wife.)

애인 vs 여보

Both are used for romantic partners.

여보 is a term of address (Honey/Darling) used only between married couples. 애인 is a noun referring to the person.

여보, 밥 먹어! (Honey, eat!)

애인 vs 동반자

Both mean partner.

동반자 is much more formal and implies a life companion, not necessarily romantic (though often so).

그는 나의 든든한 동반자이다. (He is my reliable companion.)

Sentence Patterns

N + 이/가 있어요

애인이 있어요.

N + 하고 V

애인하고 놀아요.

N + 이/가 생기면 ...

애인이 생기면 좋겠어요.

N + 을/를 위해 ...

애인을 위해 요리해요.

N + 에 대한 ...

애인에 대한 사랑.

N + 이라는 존재

애인이라는 존재의 의미.

제 N + 이에요

제 애인이에요.

Adj + N

착한 애인

Word Family

Nouns

연애 (Yeon-ae - Dating/Romance)

애정 (Ae-jeong - Affection)

연인 (Yeon-in - Lovers)

사랑 (Sarang - Love)

Verbs

사랑하다 (Sarang-hada - To love)

연애하다 (Yeon-ae-hada - To date)

애정하다 (Ae-jeong-hada - To cherish/love - less common)

Adjectives

사랑스럽다 (Sarang-seureop-da - To be lovely)

애틋하다 (Ae-teut-hada - To be heart-wrenching/tender)

데이트 (Date)

고백 (Confession)

결혼 (Marriage)

이별 (Breakup)

첫사랑 (First love)

How to Use It

frequency

Very high in romantic contexts; medium in general daily conversation.

Common Mistakes

Using '애인' for a platonic male friend. → 남사친 (Male friend)
'애인' always implies a romantic relationship. Using it for a friend will cause confusion.
Using '애인' for a spouse. → 남편 (Husband) / 아내 (Wife)
'애인' is for dating. Once married, use the specific spouse terms.
Saying '애인해요' for 'Let's be lovers.' → 우리 사귀자 (Let's date)
'애인' is a noun and doesn't naturally combine with '하다' in this way.
Confusing '애인' (Aein) with '아인' (Ain). → 애인
'아인' is not a common word and sounds different. Focus on the 'ae' vowel.
Assuming '애인' is only for women. → It is gender-neutral.
Many learners assume it means 'girlfriend' because of the 'in' sound, but it applies to any gender.

Tips

When to use '애인'

Use '애인' when you want to sound more mature or when you are referring to a serious romantic partner whose gender you don't need to specify.

Verb Agreement

Always pair '애인' with '생기다' when you mean 'to get a lover' and '사귀다' when you mean 'to date a lover.'

Introductions

When introducing your partner to someone older, '제 애인입니다' is a very polite and clear way to define the relationship.

Drama Context

If you hear '애인' in a drama, look at the characters' ages. Older characters use '애인' more frequently than '남친/여친'.

Vowel Clarity

Practice the difference between '애' (ae) and '에' (e). '애' is slightly more open. This will help you sound more like a native speaker.

Hanja Roots

Remembering that '애' means love (愛) will help you connect this word to other words like '애정' (affection) and '연애' (dating).

Texting

In texts, people rarely type '애인.' They usually use '남친' or '여친.' Only use '애인' in texts if you are being serious or poetic.

Spouse Confusion

Never use '애인' to refer to your wife or husband in a formal setting, as it can lead to misunderstandings about your marital status.

Love is Blind

Memorize the phrase '애인 눈에 콩깍지' to impress your Korean friends when they talk about their partners.

Song Lyrics

Ballads are the best place to hear '애인' used with deep emotional resonance. Try listening to Lee Eun-mi's '애인 있어요'.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of 'AE' as the sound you make when you see someone cute, and 'IN' as that person being 'IN' your heart. AE-IN.

Visual Association

Imagine a heart (愛) with a person (人) standing inside of it.

Word Web

사랑 (Love) 사람 (Person) 데이트 (Date) 커플 (Couple) 연애 (Dating) 꽃 (Flowers) 심장 (Heart) 결혼 (Marriage)

Challenge

Try to use '애인' in a sentence today when talking about your favorite K-drama couple instead of using 'boyfriend' or 'girlfriend'.

Word Origin

Derived from the Hanja (Sino-Korean) characters 愛 (애) and 人 (인).

Original meaning: 愛 (Love) + 人 (Person) = A person who is loved or a person who loves.

Sino-Korean

Cultural Context

Avoid using '애인' for someone who is married unless you are specifically referring to an affair, as it can occasionally carry that nuance in specific contexts. For married people, use spouse terms.

In English, 'lover' can sound very sexual or like someone you are having an affair with. In Korean, '애인' is much more innocent and standard, closer to 'significant other.'

The song '애인 있어요' (I Have a Lover) by Lee Eun-mi is one of the most famous ballads in Korea. Many K-dramas use the 'fake lover' (가짜 애인) trope to create romantic tension. The movie '애인' (The Intimate) explored deeper, more mature themes of romance.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

At a social gathering

애인 데려왔어?
애인 자랑 좀 해봐.
애인 어디서 만났어?
애인 사진 보여줘.

Talking about K-dramas

둘이 애인 사이가 됐어.
가짜 애인 연기 잘한다.
전 애인이 다시 나타났어.
애인을 위해 죽었어.

Relationship advice

애인이랑 싸웠어?
애인한테 잘해줘.
애인하고 대화를 많이 해.
애인이 바람피우는 것 같아.

Dating Apps / Profiles

애인 구함.
애인 있음.
애인 급구.
착한 애인 찾아요.

Holidays

애인 선물 샀어?
애인이랑 크리스마스에 뭐 해?
애인이랑 여행 가.
애인 없는 사람은 슬퍼.

Conversation Starters

"혹시 지금 사귀는 애인 있어요? (By the way, do you have a lover you are dating now?)"

"애인이 생기면 가장 먼저 하고 싶은 게 뭐예요? (If you get a lover, what is the first thing you want to do?)"

"제 애인을 친구들에게 소개해주고 싶은데 어떻게 생각해요? (I want to introduce my lover to my friends, what do you think?)"

"애인과 가고 싶은 여행지가 있나요? (Is there a travel destination you want to go to with your lover?)"

"애인에게 줄 생일 선물을 고르는 중인데 도와주실래요? (I'm picking out a birthday gift for my lover, can you help me?)"

Journal Prompts

내가 꿈꾸는 이상적인 애인의 모습은 어떤가요? (What does my ideal lover look like?)

애인과 함께 보낸 가장 행복했던 순간에 대해 써보세요. (Write about the happiest moment you spent with your lover.)

만약 애인이 화가 났다면 어떻게 화해할 건가요? (If your lover is angry, how will you make up?)

애인에게 하고 싶은 말을 편지 형식으로 적어보세요. (Write what you want to say to your lover in the form of a letter.)

애인이 없는 사람들을 위한 완벽한 주말 계획을 세워보세요. (Make a perfect weekend plan for people who don't have a lover.)

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

Generally, no. In Korean, '애인' is used for someone you are dating. Once married, you use '남편' (husband). Using '애인' for a spouse can sometimes sound like you are having an affair or trying to be overly romantic in a non-standard way.

Yes, '애인' is completely gender-neutral. It can refer to a boyfriend, girlfriend, or non-binary romantic partner. This makes it a very useful word if you don't want to specify gender.

'남자친구' and '여자친구' are much more common in everyday spoken Korean among young and middle-aged people. '애인' is more common in songs, dramas, and when talking about the concept of a lover.

In modern Korean, its primary meaning is 'lover' or 'partner.' However, in some older literature or specific contexts (like '애인이 있다' said by a married man), it can imply an extramarital affair. But in general conversation, it's a safe and positive word.

You say '애인 없어요' (Aein eop-seo-yo). If you want to say it more casually to friends, you say '애인 없어'.

No, '애인' implies you are already in a relationship. For a crush, you use the word '짝사랑' (one-sided love) or '관심 있는 사람' (someone I'm interested in).

It is more formal than '남친/여친' but less formal than '배우자' (spouse). It's a 'neutral-serious' word.

'전' means 'previous' or 'ex.' So '전 애인' means 'ex-lover' or 'ex-boyfriend/girlfriend.'

You add '들' to make '애인들.' However, it's rarely used to refer to one person's multiple lovers unless talking about a specific (and usually scandalous) situation.

It's better to avoid talking about romantic relationships in formal business settings. However, if a close colleague asks, '애인' is a respectful term to use.