아니요, 같은 의미 아니에요!
While both 아니요 and 아니에요 have similar pronunciations and can be used in some of the same contexts, these two words do not actually have the same meaning. Though it can be confusing, here's our guide to help you understand the difference and when it is best to use either.
What does ‘아니요’ mean?
The Korean word 아니요 means ‘No’ in English. This word has three syllables and is used in any context fitting for a denying answer. It can be paired with other words to form an explanatory sentence or stand alone. While this is the proper way to write and pronounce this word, in casual language, it is shortened to simply 아니.
What does ‘아니에요’ mean?
Comparatively, 아니에요 is actually a conjugated verb meaning ‘to be not’ in English. We can hear the difference as 아니에요 is pronounced with four syllables. This word is used in any circumstance to convey that something is not true and can be used interchangeably with 아니요 depending on the context. The more casual way of saying 아니에요 is 아니야, which is suitable for conversations with peers or friends.
When are they interchangeable?
Just as in English, the phrases “No” or “It’s not” are used interchangeably depending on the context. One circumstance when both 아니요 and 아니에요 are appropriate responses is when a question is asked that has a truth to it.
For example, if you wanted to ask "이거 먹는 거에요?"(Is this edible?) in Korean, then both 아니요 and 아니에요 could be applied. Using 아니요 as a straightforward ‘No’ or 아니에요 meaning “It’s not (edible)” are both appropriate responses for this question.
The same as the formal language form for both words, the casual language pronunciations for both still have these different meanings.
아니요, 같은 의미 아니에요!
While you may hear both 아니요 and 아니에요 used in similar contexts, as we have learned, they are different words. Practice using both to hone your conversational Korean speaking skills. If you have any more questions about words that are confusing, please head to our website!
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