If you are an avid K-drama fan, you have probably heard 'Aigo' mentioned countless times. Aigo is a widespread expression in Korea. Koreans use it for different purposes and emotions. It roughly translates to "Oh," "Oh my," or "Oh dear" in English. The older generation mainly uses this, but young people still also use it. 

It is pronounced [a-i-go] or [a-i-gu]. Both are correct and mean the same thing. 

It can get tricky to figure out the right situations to use this expression because it can mean so many things. However, you can always rely on the tone of delivery to recognize what emotion "Aigo" conveys, 

It is apt to say "Aigo" when: 

1. you're shocked

Whether there is a sudden loud sound, someone knocked over something accidentally, or any other similar situation, you can say aigo to express your surprise or fear. 

EXAMPLE: 

"Aigo, what was that sound?" 

"Aigo, so clumsy!"

2. you're worried about something or someone

Say you have a difficult test coming up or your best friend is mad at you, you can use aigo accordingly. 

EXAMPLE:

"Aigo, I don't have enough time to study all this." 

"Aigo, why won't she text me back?"

3. you are frustrated

You can say "Aigo" when you're mad about something someone said or did or any time you feel frustrated. 

EXAMPLE:

"She said that? Aigo, the nerve of that girl!"

"Aigo, this traffic is horrible!"

4. you feel grateful

You can also use this expression during times when you feel happy or grateful about something. 

EXAMPLE: 

"Aigo, you shouldn't have gotten me a present." 

"Aigo, thank you for being here."

5. you feel sorry for someone

If your best friend came running to you because of heartbreak or a kid fell, you can say, "Aigo, you poor thing." 

6. you regret something 

We have all done something we wish we didn't have. Aigo can capture that emotion well. 

EXAMPLE: 

"Aigo, I should not have done that!" 

"Aigo, what was I thinking?"

7. you want to commend someone

When someone gets promoted or performs well, you can also use "aigo" to recognize their accomplishments. 

EXAMPLE: 

"Aigo, you performed that song so well!"

"Aigo, you worked so hard. Congratulations!"

These are just some of the ways you can use the word "Aigo." The next time you hang out with your Korean friends, surprise them by slipping "aigo" in your conversation.