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이메일 보내다

A2 verb #3,000 most common 9 min read

이메일 보내다

imeil bonaeda Top 3,000

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips 이메일 보내다 in 30 Seconds

Explanation 이메일 보내다 in your Level:

At the A1 level, learners are introduced to the most basic components of this phrase. '이메일' is an easy loanword from English, making it recognizable. '보내다' is one of the first 50 verbs a student learns. At this stage, students learn to say '이메일 보내요' (I send an email) and '이메일 보냈어요' (I sent an email). The focus is on the simple Subject-Object-Verb (SOV) structure: '저는 이메일을 보내요'. Learners are taught that '을' is the object marker. They also learn simple recipients like '친구' (friend) or '엄마' (mom) using the particle '한테'. The goal is to be able to state the simple fact of sending a digital message in the present or past tense without worrying too much about complex honorifics or varied synonyms. Exercises at this level usually involve matching the word to a picture of a computer or filling in the verb '보내다' in a simple sentence.

At the A2 level, which is the target for this word, learners begin to use '이메일 보내다' in more varied contexts. They learn to use the future tense '보낼 거예요' and the 'promise' future '-ㄹ게요'. A2 learners should be able to specify the purpose of the email, such as '과제를 보내다' (to send an assignment) or '사진을 보내다' (to send a photo). They also start learning the polite formal form '보냅니다/보냈습니다' and the humble auxiliary verb '-아/어 드리다' (보내 드립니다) for use with teachers or bosses. The concept of '못' (cannot) and '안' (do not) is introduced here, allowing students to explain why they didn't send an email ('시간이 없어서 못 보냈어요'). They also learn to connect sentences, such as '이메일을 보내고 전화를 했어요' (I sent an email and then called).

By B1, learners are expected to use '이메일 보내다' fluently in complex sentences. They use various connective endings like '-아서/어서' (because), '-(으)니까' (since), and '-(으)면' (if). For example, '이메일을 보내면 답장을 받을 수 있어요' (If you send an email, you can get a reply). B1 learners also distinguish between '보내다' and more specific verbs like '전달하다' (to forward) or '첨부하다' (to attach [a file to an email]). They understand the nuance of '-아/어 주다' vs '-아/어 드리다' perfectly. They can also use the noun form '이메일 보내기' (sending an email) as a subject or object in a sentence. At this level, students can write a short paragraph describing their daily routine, including who they send emails to and why.

At the B2 level, learners use '이메일 보내다' in professional and academic contexts with ease. They are familiar with business email etiquette, including common opening and closing remarks that involve the word. They can use the passive form '이메일이 보내지다' (the email is sent/being sent) and understand the nuance of '발송하다' (to dispatch) vs '보내다'. They can discuss technical issues related to sending emails using words like '오류' (error) or '서버' (server). B2 learners can also use the phrase in quoted speech: '그가 이메일을 보냈다고 했어요' (He said that he sent an email). They are comfortable using the word in debates or discussions about digital communication and its impact on society.

C1 learners use '이메일 보내다' as a springboard for advanced linguistic expression. They might use it in idiomatic ways or within complex grammatical structures involving suppositions or hypothetical situations ('이메일을 보냈더라면 결과가 달랐을 텐데' - If I had sent the email, the result would have been different). They understand the subtle social implications of choosing to '이메일 보내다' versus calling or meeting in person. They can analyze the tone of an email and discuss the pragmatics of '보내다' in different registers. At this level, the focus shifts from the phrase itself to the sophisticated context surrounding it, such as formal business proposals or legal correspondence.

At the C2 level, '이메일 보내다' is used with the proficiency of a native speaker. The learner can use it in literary or highly formal academic writing. They are aware of historical shifts in language, such as how '보내다' replaced '부치다' in digital contexts. They can navigate the most complex honorific systems, using '올리다' (a very high humble form) instead of '보내다' in extremely formal situations (e.g., '메일을 올립니다'). They can discuss the nuances of digital communication at a philosophical or sociolinguistic level, using the phrase as a basic building block for complex discourse. They can also identify and use rare or archaic synonyms in specific stylistic contexts.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

이메일 보내다 in 30 Seconds

Used to describe sending electronic mail.
Combines the loanword '이메일' with '보내다'.
Essential for business and academic life in Korea.
Can be used in various formality levels.

The phrase 이메일 보내다 is a fundamental verbal construction in modern Korean, combining the loanword '이메일' (email) with the native Korean verb '보내다' (to send). In the digital age, this is perhaps one of the most frequently used expressions in both professional and personal contexts in South Korea. South Korea, being one of the most hyper-connected societies globally, relies heavily on electronic communication. While instant messaging apps like KakaoTalk dominate casual conversation, '이메일 보내다' remains the standard for business, academic, and official correspondence.

Semantic Range: The phrase specifically refers to the act of transmitting an electronic mail message from one user to another. It encompasses the entire process from hitting the 'send' button to the successful dispatch of the digital data. It is used for formal reports, job applications, and even newsletters.

부장님께 보고서를 이메일 보냈습니다.

When using this phrase, the particle '을' (object marker) is often attached to '이메일' (이메일을 보내다), though in spoken Korean, it is frequently dropped for brevity. The verb '보내다' itself is versatile, used for sending physical letters, packages, or even people, but when paired with '이메일', it takes on a specific technological nuance. In a business setting, you might hear this phrase dozens of times a day as colleagues coordinate tasks. The etiquette surrounding '이메일 보내다' involves specific honorifics depending on who the recipient is. For instance, if you are sending an email to a professor, you would use the honorific form '보내드리다' instead of the standard '보내다'.

Cultural Context: The 'Pali-Pali' (hurry-hurry) culture of Korea means that when someone says they will '이메일 보내다', there is an expectation of relative speed. Delayed emails can be seen as a lack of professionalism or interest.

친구에게 생일 축하 이메일을 보내다.

Furthermore, the phrase is often used in the passive or resultative state. For example, '이메일 보냈어요?' (Did you send the email?) is a common question. If you are confirming that you have already performed the action, you would use the past tense. In modern slang, sometimes people use '메일' (mail) instead of the full '이메일' (email), but '이메일 보내다' remains the most standard and clear way to express this action. It is taught early in Korean language curricula because of its practical necessity in daily life. Whether you are a student submitting an assignment or an employee sending a contract, mastering this phrase and its various levels of formality is essential for effective communication in Korea.

Variations: Common variations include '메일을 부치다' (older style, less common now) or '메일을 전송하다' (more technical, meaning 'to transmit'). However, '보내다' is the most natural verb for everyday use.

Using 이메일 보내다 correctly requires an understanding of Korean sentence structure and particle usage. The basic structure is [Recipient] + [Particle] + 이메일(을) + 보내다. The choice of particle for the recipient is crucial. For friends or people of equal or lower status, use '한테' or '에게'. For people of higher status or in formal settings, use '께'.

Informal Politeness (Polite/Standard): The most common ending is '-어요'. So, '이메일 보내요' (I send an email) or '이메일 보냈어요' (I sent an email). This is suitable for most daily interactions.

어제 친구한테 이메일 보냈어요.

In business contexts, the formal polite ending '-습니다' is preferred. '이메일 보냅니다' (I am sending an email) or '이메일 보냈습니다' (I sent an email). This shows respect and professional distance. Additionally, when you are doing something for someone else's benefit, you might use the auxiliary verb '-아/어 주다'. For example, '이메일 보내 줄게요' (I will send the email for you).

Honorific Usage: When sending an email to a superior, use the humble form '드리다' instead of '주다'. '이메일 보내 드릴게요' (I will send the email to you [honored person]). This is a vital nuance in Korean social hierarchy.

Future intentions are expressed using '-(으)ㄹ 거예요' or '-(으)ㄹ게요'. '내일 이메일 보낼 거예요' (I will send an email tomorrow). The '-ㄹ게요' ending implies a promise or a reaction to the current situation: '지금 바로 이메일 보낼게요' (I'll send the email right now [since you asked/it's needed]).

선생님께 질문 이메일을 보내야 해요.

Negative forms are created by adding '안' before the verb or using the '-지 않다' ending. '이메일 안 보냈어요' or '이메일 보내지 않았어요' both mean 'I didn't send the email'. If you are unable to send it, you use '못', as in '컴퓨터가 고장 나서 이메일 못 보냈어요' (I couldn't send the email because my computer broke down). Understanding these variations allows for precise communication of intent and status.

Common Adverbs: Use '자주' (often), '가끔' (sometimes), or '매일' (every day) to describe frequency. '저는 매일 회사에 이메일 보내요' (I send emails to the company every day).

You will encounter 이메일 보내다 in almost every facet of life in Korea. In the workplace, it is the bread and butter of communication. Walk into any office in Gangnam or Yeouido, and you will hear phrases like '그 서류 이메일로 보냈나요?' (Did you send that document via email?) or '이메일 확인하고 답장 보내주세요' (Please check your email and send a reply). The word is ubiquitous in professional settings where a paper trail is required.

In the Office: Managers often instruct subordinates to '이메일 보내다' to clients or other departments. It is the formal way to share information, far more official than a '문자' (text) or '톡' (KakaoTalk message).

거래처에 이메일 보냈습니까?

In universities, professors and students use this phrase constantly. Syllabi often state, '과제는 이메일로 보내세요' (Please send your assignments via email). Students might ask each other, '교수님께 이메일 보냈어?' (Did you send an email to the professor?). The phrase is also common in customer service. If you call a service center, the representative might say, '관련 자료를 이메일로 보내 드리겠습니다' (I will send the relevant materials to you via email).

Even in personal life, while messaging apps are more common, '이메일 보내다' is used for long-form letters or sending large files. If a friend wants a high-resolution photo from a trip, they might say, '사진 이메일로 좀 보내줘' (Please send the photos by email). You'll also see this phrase on websites under 'Contact Us' sections, usually labeled as '이메일 보내기' (Sending an Email). In advertisements, you might hear '이메일을 보내시면 선물을 드립니다' (If you send an email, we will give you a gift).

Media and Internet: On YouTube or podcasts, creators often ask fans to '이메일 보내주세요' with stories or questions. It serves as a bridge between the creator and the audience for more detailed interaction.

궁금한 점이 있으면 이메일 보내 주세요.

One of the most frequent mistakes learners make with 이메일 보내다 is confusing the verb '보내다' (to send) with '부치다' (to mail/post). While '부치다' was historically used for letters, it is now almost exclusively reserved for physical mail like postcards or parcels. Saying '이메일을 부치다' sounds very dated and slightly unnatural to a modern Korean ear. Always use '보내다' for digital transmissions.

Particle Confusion: Another error is using the wrong particle for the recipient. Beginners often use '를' (object marker) for the person, which is incorrect. You 'send an email' (object) 'to someone' (recipient). Use '에게', '한테', or '께'.

Incorrect: 친구를 이메일 보냈어요. (I sent my friend an email [as if the friend was the message]).
Correct: 친구 에게 이메일 보냈어요.

Misusing honorifics is a significant pitfall. In a Korean company, failing to use '보내드리다' when sending an email to a boss can be perceived as rude. Even if the action is the same, the choice of verb ending reflects the relationship. Similarly, forgetting to use '께' for a superior and using '에게' instead is a common slip-up for learners who are used to a single 'to' in English.

Learners also sometimes confuse '보내다' with '받다' (to receive). If you want to say 'I received an email', you must use '이메일을 받다'. If you say '이메일을 보냈어요' when you meant you received one, you will cause significant confusion in communication. Also, avoid using '문자' (text message) interchangeably with '이메일'. They are distinct categories of communication in Korea.

Spelling Error: Don't confuse '보내다' (to send) with '지내다' (to spend time/live). They sound somewhat similar to beginners but have entirely different meanings.

Mistake: 이메일 지냈어요. (Nonsense).
Correct: 이메일 보냈어요.

While 이메일 보내다 is the standard, several other verbs and phrases can be used depending on the nuance and formality of the situation. Understanding these alternatives will help you sound more like a native speaker and navigate different social contexts.

전송하다 (Jeonsong-hada): This means 'to transmit' or 'to transfer'. It is more technical and often used in computer interfaces or when talking about sending large files or data. You might see a button labeled '전송' in an email client.
발송하다 (Balsong-hada): This means 'to dispatch' or 'to ship out'. It is very formal and commonly used in business or logistics. For example, '상품을 발송했습니다' (We have dispatched the product) or '뉴스레터를 발송했습니다' (We have sent out the newsletter).

서류를 전송했습니다. vs 이메일을 보냈습니다.

If you are forwarding an email you already received, you use the verb '전달하다' (Jeondal-hada), which means 'to deliver' or 'to pass on'. For example, '이메일을 전달해 주세요' (Please forward the email). This is a specific action within the broader category of sending.

답장하다 (Dapjang-hada): This means 'to reply'. Instead of saying '이메일을 보내다' in response to someone, you can specifically say '이메일에 답장하다' (to reply to an email). This is more precise.

In very informal settings, people might just use '톡하다' (to send a KakaoTalk message) or '디엠 보내다' (to send a DM/Direct Message on Instagram). If you say '이메일 보내다' when you actually mean 'DM', it might sound a bit too formal or specific to a different medium. Choosing the right verb shows your proficiency in modern Korean digital etiquette.

나중에 답장 보낼게! (I'll send a reply later!)

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

Before '이메일' became the standard, Koreans used the term '전자 우편' (Jeonja upyeon), which literally translates to 'electronic mail'. While still used in official documents, '이메일' is far more common in speech.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /i.me.il bo.nɛ.da/

US /i.me.il bo.nɛ.da/

Primary stress is on the first syllable '이' and the first syllable of the verb '보'.

Rhymes With

꺼내다 (kkeo-nae-da) 끝내다 (kkeut-nae-da) 내다 (nae-da) 지내다 (ji-nae-da) 나타내다 (na-ta-nae-da) 드러내다 (deu-reo-nae-da) 건네다 (geon-ne-da) 힘내다 (him-nae-da)

Common Errors

Pronouncing '이메일' exactly like the English word 'email' with a heavy English 'L'. In Korean, the 'ㄹ' is a light tap.
Confusing '보내다' (bo-nae-da) with '보다' (bo-da).
Pronouncing 'ae' (ㅐ) and 'e' (ㅔ) differently; in modern Seoul Korean, they are almost identical.
Adding a stress to the final 'da' which should be neutral.
Forgetting the vowel length in 'bo'.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 2/5

The word '이메일' is easy for English speakers, and '보내다' is a basic verb.

Writing 3/5

Requires knowledge of particles (에게/한테/께) and verb conjugations.

Speaking 2/5

Pronunciation is straightforward, but honorific levels must be considered.

Listening 2/5

Easily recognizable in conversation due to the loanword.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

컴퓨터 (Computer) 친구 (Friend) 선생님 (Teacher) 쓰다 (To write) 보다 (To see)

Learn Next

답장하다 (To reply) 첨부하다 (To attach) 확인하다 (To check) 전달하다 (To forward) 삭제하다 (To delete)

Advanced

발송하다 (To dispatch) 전송하다 (To transmit) 수신하다 (To receive [formal]) 발신하다 (To send [formal]) 참조하다 (To CC/reference)

Grammar to Know

Object Marker 을/를

이메일을 보내다.

Recipient Particles 에게/한테/께

선생님께 이메일을 보내다.

Auxiliary Verb -아/어 주다

이메일을 보내 주다.

Formal Polite Ending -습니다

이메일을 보냈습니다.

Future Tense -(으)ㄹ 거예요

이메일을 보낼 거예요.

Examples by Level

저는 이메일을 보내요.

I send an email.

Basic Subject-Object-Verb (SOV) structure with the polite ending -요.

친구한테 이메일을 보내요.

I send an email to a friend.

The particle '한테' indicates the recipient (to).

어제 이메일을 보냈어요.

I sent an email yesterday.

Past tense form of 보내다 is 보냈어요.

이메일을 보내세요.

Please send an email.

The imperative ending -(으)세요 is used for polite requests.

누구한테 이메일을 보내요?

Who are you sending an email to?

누구 (who) + 한테 (to) forms the question 'to whom'.

오늘 이메일 안 보내요.

I am not sending an email today.

The negative '안' is placed before the verb.

이메일 보내고 싶어요.

I want to send an email.

The ending -고 싶어요 expresses desire.

컴퓨터로 이메일을 보내요.

I send an email using a computer.

The particle '(으)로' indicates the means or tool (by/using).

선생님께 이메일을 보냈습니다.

I sent an email to the teacher.

Uses formal polite '-습니다' and the honorific recipient particle '께'.

사진을 이메일로 보낼 거예요.

I will send the photos via email.

Future tense '-(으)ㄹ 거예요' indicates a plan.

지금 바로 이메일 보낼게요.

I will send the email right now.

The ending '-ㄹ게요' shows a promise or immediate intent.

이메일을 보내 주셔서 감사합니다.

Thank you for sending the email.

'-아/어 주셔서' means 'because you did [the favor of] ...'.

바빠서 이메일을 못 보냈어요.

I was busy, so I couldn't send the email.

'못' indicates inability to do something.

이메일을 보내 본 적이 있어요?

Have you ever tried sending an email?

'-ㄴ 적이 있다' means 'to have the experience of doing'.

이메일을 보내야 해요.

I have to send an email.

'-아/어야 하다' expresses obligation or necessity.

파일을 첨부해서 이메일을 보내세요.

Attach the file and send the email.

'-아/어서' connects two sequential actions.

이메일을 보내자마자 답장이 왔어요.

As soon as I sent the email, a reply came.

'-자마자' means 'as soon as'.

혹시 이메일 보내는 방법을 아세요?

By any chance, do you know how to send an email?

'-는 방법' means 'the way/method of doing'.

이메일을 보내는 대신 전화를 했어요.

Instead of sending an email, I made a phone call.

'-는 대신' means 'instead of'.

중요한 내용이라서 이메일로 보냈습니다.

It was important content, so I sent it via email.

'-이라서' means 'because it is [noun]'.

이메일을 보내려고 컴퓨터를 켰어요.

I turned on the computer in order to send an email.

'-(으)려고' expresses purpose or intention.

그분께 이메일을 보내 드리는 게 좋겠어요.

It would be good to send him/her an email.

'-는 게 좋겠다' is a polite way to make a suggestion.

이메일을 보내기 전에 다시 확인하세요.

Check again before sending the email.

'-기 전에' means 'before doing'.

이메일을 보낼 때마다 실수를 해요.

Every time I send an email, I make a mistake.

'-ㄹ 때마다' means 'every time'.

이메일을 보냈음에도 불구하고 답변이 없네요.

Despite having sent the email, there is no answer.

'-음에도 불구하고' means 'despite/in spite of'.

이메일을 보내는 것보다 직접 만나는 게 나아요.

Meeting in person is better than sending an email.

'-는 것보다' is used for comparison.

실수로 잘못된 사람에게 이메일을 보냈어요.

I accidentally sent an email to the wrong person.

'실수로' means 'by mistake'.

이메일을 보낸 지 벌써 일주일이 지났어요.

It has already been a week since I sent the email.

'-ㄴ 지 [time] 되다/지나다' indicates time elapsed since an action.

이메일을 보내려던 참에 전화가 왔어요.

Just as I was about to send the email, the phone rang.

'-(으)려던 참에' means 'just as I was about to...'.

이메일을 보내 봤자 소용없을 거예요.

Even if you try sending an email, it will be useless.

'-아/어 봤자' means 'even if/no matter how much'.

이메일을 보내는 과정에서 오류가 발생했습니다.

An error occurred in the process of sending the email.

'-는 과정에서' means 'in the process of'.

회의 결과를 정리해서 이메일로 보내겠습니다.

I will summarize the meeting results and send them via email.

'-아/어서' connects the summary action to the sending action.

이메일을 보내는 행위 자체가 공식적인 기록이 됩니다.

The act of sending an email itself becomes an official record.

'-는 행위 자체' means 'the act itself'.

담당자에게 이메일을 보냄으로써 문제를 해결했습니다.

I solved the problem by sending an email to the person in charge.

'-(으)ㅁ으로써' indicates the means or method.

이메일을 보낼 때의 격식과 예절을 갖추는 것이 중요합니다.

It is important to maintain formality and etiquette when sending emails.

'-는 것이 중요하다' means 'it is important to...'.

그가 이메일을 보냈을 리가 없는데 이상하네요.

There's no way he sent an email, so it's strange.

'-(으)ㄹ 리가 없다' expresses strong doubt or impossibility.

이메일을 보내기에 앞서 내용을 다시 한번 검토하십시오.

Review the content once more before sending the email.

'-기에 앞서' is a formal way to say 'before doing'.

이메일을 보내기는커녕 주소도 모릅니다.

Far from sending an email, I don't even know the address.

'-기는커녕' means 'far from' or 'let alone'.

이메일을 보낸다는 것이 그만 잊어버리고 말았어요.

I completely forgot about sending the email.

'-고 말다' indicates an unintended or unfortunate result.

이메일을 보내는 빈도가 줄어들고 메신저 사용이 늘고 있습니다.

The frequency of sending emails is decreasing, while messenger use is increasing.

'-는 빈도' means 'frequency of'.

이메일을 보내는 소통 방식이 지닌 한계에 대해 논의해 봅시다.

Let's discuss the limitations inherent in the communication method of sending emails.

'-가 지닌 한계' refers to 'the limitations possessed by...'.

그는 이메일을 보낼 때마다 문학적인 표현을 즐겨 사용합니다.

He enjoys using literary expressions every time he sends an email.

'-ㄹ 때마다' and '즐겨 사용하다' (enjoy using).

이메일을 보내어 자신의 의사를 명확히 전달하는 능력이 요구됩니다.

The ability to clearly convey one's intentions by sending an email is required.

'-어/아' here acts as a connective indicating means.

이메일을 보냈어야 했는데 시기를 놓쳐 버렸습니다.

I should have sent the email, but I missed the timing.

'-았/었어야 했다' expresses regret over a past obligation.

이메일을 보내는 것이 반드시 최선의 방책은 아닐 수도 있습니다.

Sending an email might not necessarily be the best strategy.

'-는 것이 반드시 ~은 아니다' means 'it's not necessarily the case that...'.

이메일을 보냄으로써 발생하는 보안상의 허점을 경계해야 합니다.

We must be wary of security loopholes that arise from sending emails.

'-함으로써 발생하는' means 'arising from doing'.

이메일을 보내기에 적절한 시점을 판단하는 것은 고도의 감각이 필요합니다.

Judging the appropriate time to send an email requires a high level of intuition.

'-기에 적절한' means 'appropriate for doing'.

이메일을 보내는 일련의 과정이 자동화 시스템으로 대체되었습니다.

The series of processes for sending emails has been replaced by an automated system.

'-는 일련의 과정' means 'a series of processes'.

Common Collocations

이메일을 확인하다

파일을 첨부하다

답장을 보내다

이메일 주소

단체 이메일

이메일로 연락하다

공식 이메일

스팸 이메일

이메일 계정

이메일을 작성하다

Common Phrases

이메일 확인 부탁드립니다

— Please check your email. Standard business polite request.

보낸 이메일 확인 부탁드립니다.

이메일로 보내 드릴게요

— I will send it to you via email. Polite offer to send something.

자료는 이메일로 보내 드릴게요.

이메일 보냈으니 확인해 보세요

— I sent an email, so please check it. Informing someone of a sent message.

방금 이메일 보냈으니 확인해 보세요.

이메일 주소 좀 알려주세요

— Please let me know your email address. Asking for contact info.

연락처랑 이메일 주소 좀 알려주세요.

이메일이 안 가요

— The email is not going through. Reporting a technical issue.

인터넷이 안 돼서 이메일이 안 가요.

이메일 잘못 보냈어요

— I sent the email to the wrong person/mistakenly.

죄송합니다, 이메일 잘못 보냈어요.

이메일 답장이 늦었습니다

— My email reply is late. Apologizing for a delay.

바빠서 이메일 답장이 늦었습니다.

이메일로 문의해 주세요

— Please inquire via email. Directing questions to a specific channel.

궁금한 점은 이메일로 문의해 주세요.

이메일 한 통 보내 주세요

— Please send me one email. A simple request for a message.

시간 나실 때 이메일 한 통 보내 주세요.

이메일 용량이 커요

— The email size is large. Referring to file size issues.

첨부 파일 때문에 이메일 용량이 커요.

Often Confused With

이메일 보내다 vs 이메일 부치다

Incorrect for digital mail; '부치다' is for physical letters.

이메일 보내다 vs 이메일 주다

While used, '보내다' is the standard verb for the action of sending.

이메일 보내다 vs 문자 보내다

Refers to text messaging, not email.

Idioms & Expressions

"이메일 폭탄"

— An 'email bomb'. Receiving a massive amount of emails at once.

휴가 다녀오니 이메일 폭탄이 와 있네요.

Informal

"메일을 씹다"

— To 'chew' (ignore) an email. Not replying to a message.

그 사람이 내 이메일을 씹었어.

Slang

"메일로 때우다"

— To 'make do' with an email. Sending an email instead of a more sincere action.

직접 안 가고 이메일로 때웠어요.

Informal

"메일이 쌓이다"

— Emails are piling up. Having many unread or unanswered messages.

읽지 않은 메일이 쌓여 있어요.

Neutral

"메일을 날리다"

— To 'fly' an email. To send an email quickly or to accidentally lose a draft.

실수로 작성하던 메일을 날렸어요.

Informal

"한 통의 메일"

— A single email. Often used for dramatic effect or in storytelling.

그에게서 한 통의 메일이 왔다.

Literary

"메일을 돌리다"

— To 'circulate' an email. To send an email to many people.

공지 사항을 메일로 돌렸어요.

Neutral

"답장을 재촉하다"

— To press for a reply. Asking someone repeatedly to send an email back.

그는 계속 답장을 재촉했다.

Neutral

"메일 주소를 따다"

— To 'pick' (get) an email address. Usually implies getting it for a purpose.

그녀의 메일 주소를 드디어 땄어.

Slang

"메일로 퉁치다"

— To consider it settled with an email. Similar to 'make do'.

사과를 이메일로 퉁치려고 하지 마.

Slang

Easily Confused

이메일 보내다 vs 부치다

Both mean 'to send' in some contexts.

'부치다' is for physical mail, '보내다' is general and used for digital mail.

편지를 부치다 vs 이메일을 보내다.

이메일 보내다 vs 전달하다

Both involve sending information.

'전달하다' specifically means to forward or deliver a message from one person to another.

메일을 전달해 주세요.

이메일 보내다 vs 발송하다

Both mean 'to send'.

'발송하다' is more formal and often used for official documents or mass mailings.

상품을 발송했습니다.

이메일 보내다 vs 전송하다

Both mean 'to send'.

'전송하다' is more technical, referring to the transmission of data.

파일을 전송 중입니다.

이메일 보내다 vs 내다

Sometimes '내다' is used for submitting something.

'내다' means to submit or pay, while '보내다' is the act of sending.

숙제를 내다 vs 이메일을 보내다.

Sentence Patterns

저는 [Recipient]한테 이메일을 보내요.

저는 친구한테 이메일을 보내요.

[Recipient]께 이메일을 보내 드렸어요.

사장님께 이메일을 보내 드렸어요.

이메일을 보낼 때 [File]을 첨부하세요.

이메일을 보낼 때 사진을 첨부하세요.

이메일을 보내는 대신 [Action]을 했어요.

이메일을 보내는 대신 전화를 했어요.

이메일을 보냄으로써 [Result].

이메일을 보냄으로써 오해를 풀었습니다.

이메일을 보내기에 앞서 [Action].

이메일을 보내기에 앞서 맞춤법을 확인하십시오.

이메일을 보낼 수 있어요?

지금 이메일을 보낼 수 있어요?

이메일을 보내려고 [Action].

이메일을 보내려고 노트북을 샀어요.

Word Family

Nouns

이메일 (Email)

보냄 (The act of sending)

보낸이 (Sender)

보낼 것 (Things to send)

Verbs

보내다 (To send)

보내지다 (To be sent)

보내주다 (To send for someone)

보내드리다 (To send for someone [honorific])

우체국 (Post office)

편지 (Letter)

택배 (Delivery)

메시지 (Message)

인터넷 (Internet)

How to Use It

frequency

Extremely frequent in professional and academic life.

Common Mistakes

친구를 이메일 보냈어요. → 친구에게 이메일을 보냈어요.
You cannot use the object marker '를' for the recipient. You must use '에게', '한테', or '께'.
이메일을 부쳤어요. → 이메일을 보냈어요.
'부치다' is for physical mail. '보내다' is the correct verb for digital mail.
선생님한테 이메일 보냈어요. → 선생님께 이메일 보내 드렸어요.
When speaking to or about a teacher, use the honorific particle '께' and the humble verb '보내 드리다'.
이메일 지냈어요. → 이메일 보냈어요.
'지내다' means to spend time. It sounds similar to '보내다' but is completely different.
이메일을 받냈어요. → 이메일을 받았어요 / 보냈어요.
'받다' (receive) and '보내다' (send) are often confused. '받냈어요' is not a word.

Tips

Object Marker Usage

While '이메일 보내다' is fine in speech, always use '이메일을 보내다' in formal writing to be grammatically precise.

Business Etiquette

In Korea, it's polite to start an email with a short greeting about the weather or season before getting to the main point.

Shorthand

You can just say '메일' instead of '이메일' in most situations to sound more natural and conversational.

The 'L' Sound

The 'ㄹ' in '이메일' is a flap sound, like the 'tt' in the American pronunciation of 'butter'. Don't make it a long English 'L'.

Humble Form

When sending an email to a teacher, use '보내 드립니다' to show proper respect. It makes a big difference!

Subject Lines

A good subject line in a Korean business email often starts with [공지] (Notice) or [문의] (Inquiry) to categorize the mail.

Attachments

If you are sending a file, say '파일을 첨부해서 보냅니다' (I am sending it with a file attached).

Check the Address

Always say '주소를 확인하고 보내세요' (Check the address and then send) to avoid sending to the wrong person.

Follow-up

For urgent emails, it is common in Korea to send a quick text message saying '이메일 보냈습니다' to ensure it's seen.

Practice

Try writing a simple email to your Korean teacher or a language exchange partner today using this phrase!

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of a 'Bo-at' (보) carrying an 'Email' 'Nae' (내 - inside) it to its destination. 'Bo-nae-da' is the boat sending the mail.

Visual Association

Visualize a giant blue button on a screen that says 'SEND' in Korean (보내기). Imagine clicking it and seeing an envelope fly away.

Word Web

이메일 보내다 답장 확인 첨부 주소 받다 전송

Challenge

Try to say '이메일 보내다' in five different tenses (present, past, future, polite, formal) within 30 seconds.

Word Origin

'이메일' is a direct transliteration of the English word 'electronic mail'. '보내다' is a native Korean verb meaning 'to cause to go' or 'to dispatch'.

Original meaning: The combination literally means 'to cause electronic mail to go'.

Koreanic (with English loanword).

Cultural Context

Be careful with honorifics. Sending an email to a superior using '보냈어' (informal) instead of '보냈습니다' (formal) can be a serious social error.

In English-speaking countries, email is also formal, but the level of introductory pleasantries is often lower than in Korean '이메일' culture.

The movie 'You've Got Mail' is translated as '유브 갓 메일' in Korea. Many K-dramas feature a 'resignation email' scene. K-pop idols often mention sending emails to their parents in letters to fans.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Workplace

이메일 확인 부탁드립니다.
자료를 이메일로 보냈습니다.
회의록을 이메일로 공유하겠습니다.
이메일에 답장해 주세요.

University

과제를 이메일로 제출하세요.
교수님께 이메일을 보냈어요.
이메일 주소를 모르겠어요.
이메일로 질문을 해도 될까요?

Daily Life

사진 이메일로 보내줄래?
이메일 자주 안 써요.
스팸 이메일이 너무 많아요.
이메일 비밀번호를 잊어버렸어요.

Customer Service

이메일로 영수증을 보내 드릴게요.
이메일로 문의해 주시기 바랍니다.
이메일 확인이 안 됩니다.
이메일로 답변을 받았습니다.

Job Search

이력서를 이메일로 보냈습니다.
이메일로 합격 통보를 받았어요.
이메일 주소를 다시 확인해 주세요.
이메일 제목에 이름을 써 주세요.

Conversation Starters

"혹시 이메일 주소가 어떻게 되세요?"

"제가 보낸 이메일 보셨어요?"

"자료를 이메일로 보내 드릴까요?"

"이메일보다는 전화가 더 편하세요?"

"요즘 이메일 자주 확인하세요?"

Journal Prompts

오늘 누구에게 이메일을 보냈나요? 그 내용은 무엇이었나요?

이메일을 보내는 것과 직접 말하는 것 중 무엇을 더 선호하나요?

가장 기억에 남는 이메일은 무엇인가요?

미래의 나에게 이메일을 보낸다면 어떤 말을 하고 싶나요?

이메일을 보낼 때 가장 신경 쓰는 부분은 무엇인가요?

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

It is better to avoid it. '부치다' is traditionally for physical mail. Using it for email sounds very old-fashioned. Stick to '이메일을 보내다' for digital messages.

'보내다' is just 'to send'. '보내 주다' implies sending it as a favor or for someone's benefit. For example, '이메일 보내 줄게요' means 'I will send the email for you'.

You should use honorifics: '부장님께 이메일을 보내 드렸습니다.' This uses '께' for 'to' and '드리다' as the humble version of '주다'.

Both are common. '이메일' is more complete, but '메일' is frequently used in casual conversation and even in office settings as a shorthand.

Use the verb '전달하다'. For example: '이 이메일을 다른 분들께 전달해 주세요' (Please forward this email to others).

Use '에게' or '한테' for friends/equals. Use '께' for superiors or people you want to show respect to.

You can say '이메일 안 보냈어요' (I didn't send it) or '이메일 못 보냈어요' (I couldn't send it).

Yes, you can say '문자를 보내다'. '보내다' is a general verb for sending almost anything.

It means 'Please check your email'. It is a very common phrase after you have sent someone an email.

The phrase itself is neutral. Its formality depends on the verb ending you use (e.g., -어, -어요, -습니다).