How to Say “Water” in Korean? Phrases Cultural Insights

The word for “water” in Korean is 물 (mul). It’s a simple one-syllable word and one of the most common terms you’ll encounter. Whether you’re asking for water in a restaurant or discussing hydration, knowing this word is essential.

But there’s also another term for water: 수 (su), which is widely used in compound words. Let’s break down the difference:

What Is “Water” in Korean?

Everything you need to know about “Water” in the Korean language and culture.

The Difference Between 물 (Mul) and 수 (Su)

1. 물 (Mul)

• Usage: 물 is the standard term for water. It’s used in everyday conversations and basic expressions.
• Formality: Informal or neutral; applicable in casual or polite settings.
• Examples:
  • 물 주세요. (Mul juseyo.) – “Please give me water.”
  • 뜨거운 물 (Tteugeoun mul) – “Hot water”
  • 찬물 (Chanmul) – “Cold water”

How to Use “물” in Everyday Sentences

Here are some common phrases involving 물:

1. 물 주세요. (Mul juseyo.) – “Please give me water.”
   Use this when ordering water at a café or restaurant. Politeness Level: Standard polite request..
2. 물 있어요? (Mul isseoyo?) – “Do you have water?”
   A handy question for shopping or at someone’s house.
3. 뜨거운 물 (Tteugeoun mul) – “Hot water”
   Often used when asking for tea or during winter months.
4. 찬물 (Chanmul) – “Cold water”
   Useful in summer or when ordering at a restaurant.
5. 생수 (Saengsu) – “Bottled water”
   Specifically refers to purified or bottled water, often used in stores.
6. 물 좀 더 주세요. (Mul jom deo juseyo.) – “Please give me more water.”
   Use this to politely ask for a refill.

2. 수 (Su)

• Usage: 수 is typically found in Sino-Korean (words derived from Chinese characters) and used in compound or technical terms.
• Formality: More formal and academic.
• Examples:
  • 수영 (Su-yeong) – “Swimming” (literally “water exercise”)
  • 수도 (Su-do) – “Water supply” or “faucet”
  • 수질 (Su-jil) – “Water quality”
  • 수해 (Su-hae) – “Flood damage”

How to Recognize 수 in Korean Compound Words

In Korean, 수 is often used in compound words, especially when referring to actions, activities, or systems related to water. While it’s not commonly used on its own in casual conversations, you’ll notice 수 in many everyday terms. Here are some common and practical examples:

1. 수영 (Su-yeong) – Swimming
   • Example: 수영장 (Su-yeong-jang) – “Swimming pool”
     You’ll hear this word a lot if you talk about hobbies or places to swim.
2. 수도 (Su-do) – Tap water or water supply
   • Example: 수도꼭지 (Su-do-kkok-ji) – “Faucet”
     This word is handy for everyday conversations, especially when talking about household tasks.
3. 수건 (Su-geon) – Towel
   • Although it doesn’t directly translate to “water,” 수건 reflects its connection to water-related activities like washing and drying.
4. 수증기 (Su-jeung-gi) – Steam
   • Example: When boiling water, 수증기 refers to the steam that rises. It’s a simple term that connects to daily life, such as cooking or using a humidifier.

In summary, 물 is your go-to word for everyday situations, while 수 appears in specialized or formal contexts, often combined with other words.

Water-Related Korean Idioms & Slangs

The word 물 also appears in idiomatic expressions. Here are two examples:

1. 물이 좋다 (Muri jota) – Literally “The water is good,” It can sometimes also refer to a pleasant atmosphere, but more often, it highlights the physical appeal or charm of the people in that location. “the people or atmosphere in a place are nice.”
   Example: “그 카페는 물이 좋아요.” (Geu kape neun muri johayo.) – “That café has many attractive people.”
2. 찬물을 끼얹다 (Mureul kkieotda) – “To pour cold water on something,” meaning to ruin the mood or enthusiasm.
   Example: “그 얘기는 정말 대화에 찬물을 끼얹는 것 같아요.” (Geu yaegineun jeongmal mureul kkieotneun geot gatayo.) – “That comment really killed the vibe.”
3. 물을 먹다 (Mureul meokda) – Literally “to drink water,” this means “to fail” or “to flop.”
   Example: “그 영화때문에 나는 물을 먹었어요.” (Geu yeonghwa  yonghwattaemune naneun mureul meogeosseoyo.) – “That movie ruined my day.”
4. 물 쓰듯 하다 (Mul sseudeut hada) – “To use something like water,” meaning to waste resources extravagantly.
   Example: “돈을 물 쓰듯 하면 안 돼요.” (Doneul mul sseudeut hamyeon an dwaeyo.) – “You shouldn’t waste money like water.”

Tips for Learning Korean Vocabulary

To remember 물 and other essential words when learning Korean:

• Practice Daily: Use flashcards or language apps.
• Repeat in Context: Use 물 in sentences or real-life situations.
• Engage with Media: Watch Korean dramas or listen to conversations where simple words like 물 appear frequently.

See also: How to Learn Korean Fast – 4 Impactful Strategies

Interesting Facts and Cultural Insights About Water in Korea

From idioms to free water at restaurants, learn how water is woven into Korean culture!

1. Water Is Free in Most Restaurants
   In Korea, water is usually provided for free in restaurants, often served in large pitchers with small cups. It’s typically 찬물 (cold water) unless you specifically ask for 뜨거운 물 (hot water).
2. Bottled Water Brands
   If you’re traveling in Korea, you’ll encounter popular bottled water brands like 삼다수 (Samdasu) and 아이시스 (Isis). Knowing the term 생수 can help when shopping for water.
3. Free Public Water Dispensers
   Public places like subway stations, libraries, and parks often have water dispensers.
4. Healing Hot Springs: Korea is home to numerous hot springs (온천 – oncheon), which locals visit for relaxation and therapeutic benefits.
5. Tap Water Is Safe but Rarely Consumed: While tap water in Korea is generally safe to drink, many locals prefer filtered or bottled water.
6. Rice Water (쌀뜨물): Koreans use leftover water from rinsing rice, called 쌀뜨물 (ssal tteumul), in traditional cooking or as a natural face wash, however this seems to be a more uncommon practice.