존댓말
"formal/polite speech"
Korean word for formal/polite speech
🙇Honorifics
Korean honorific expressions and politeness levels
Pronunciation Guide
존댓말[jondaenmal]
Pronunciation Tips:
- •"ae" sounds like "a" in "cat"
English Translation
formal/polite speech
Meaning & Usage
The general term for polite or formal speech in Korean. The opposite is '반말' (casual speech). Korean has one of the world's most complex honorific systems, with three types: subject, addressee, and object honorification.
Learning Tips
- 💡This is a common beginner-level word. Practice using it in daily conversations!
- 💡Nouns are often followed by particles (은/는, 이/가, 을/를) to indicate their role.
- 💡Korean honorific expressions and politeness levels
Difficulty:Beginner (TOPIK 1-2)
Example Sentences
Beginner
You say "존댓말" to a teacher.
Intermediate
You should use "존댓말" when meeting someone for the first time.
Advanced
"존댓말" is an essential expression for showing politeness in Korea.
Master
Understanding the nuance of "존댓말" helps balance formality and familiarity appropriately.
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