How to Politely Avoid Questions in Korean — What to Say in Uncomfortable Moments

Have you ever been asked a question that made you freeze? Something like, “When are you getting married?” or “How much do you make?” — in Korean, these moments can feel even trickier to navigate due to different cultural expectations and honorific language.

This guide will help you respond to uncomfortable questions in Korean without sounding rude or awkward. Whether you're dealing with nosy coworkers, curious in-laws, or overly friendly strangers, knowing how to politely avoid an answer can save you from tension, embarrassment, or cultural missteps.

 

We’ll walk through common Korean expressions, real-life examples, and social cues to help you feel confident and respectful in these tricky situations.

😶 Why Some Questions Feel Awkward in Korean

In every culture, there are questions that feel a little too personal — but in Korean conversations, those moments can come unexpectedly. Even among coworkers or acquaintances, you might hear things like, “Have you gained weight lately?” or “So, when are you getting married?” 

These questions are not always meant to offend, but they can still feel deeply uncomfortable. For language learners, the challenge is not just understanding the words — it’s figuring out how to respond without sounding rude or making things more awkward.

 

Let’s take a common example: “너 요즘 왜 그렇게 살이 쪘어?” (neo yojeum wae geureoke sari jyeosseo?) — “Why have you gained so much weight lately?” This kind of question might come from a co-worker, relative, or even a friend. In Korean culture, commenting on appearance is often seen as casual or even caring. 

But for many learners from Western countries, this feels extremely intrusive. It places you in a spot where you have to either laugh it off or find a clever way to dodge it — especially if you don't want to share details about your health or personal life.

 

Another example might involve something from the past. Imagine a friend asking, “왜 그때 아무 말 안 했어?” (wae geuttae amu mal an haesseo?) — “Why didn’t you say anything back then?” This question seems simple, but it often has emotional weight. 

Maybe you froze in the moment, or didn’t want to create conflict, or just didn’t know what to say. But now, you’re being asked to justify silence — and that can feel cornering. In Korean, expressing past hesitation requires subtle, emotionally intelligent language, and that’s not easy for beginners.

 

Then there's the classic emotional ambush: “그때 기분 나빴어?” (geuttae gibun nabwasseo?) — “Were you upset back then?” This question often appears after an awkward conversation or misunderstanding. 

The problem is, answering “Yes” might escalate things. But saying “No” could be dishonest or confusing. It’s a lose-lose situation unless you know how to soften your response. This is where learners often panic or go silent — not because they don’t know the words, but because they don’t want to say the wrong thing.

 

In Korean culture, keeping harmony is often more important than total honesty. This is known as “nunchi (눈치),” or the art of reading the mood. 

When you’re asked an uncomfortable question, you’re not just responding to the words — you’re reacting to who’s asking, where you are, how others might interpret your reply, and whether your answer will change the vibe of the whole interaction. It’s complex, and that’s why learners need more than just vocabulary — they need strategy.

 

Sometimes, silence is safer. Or you might give a vague answer like “Ah, I’ll tell you next time~” or “I’m not really sure right now.” In Korean, these “soft avoidance” phrases help maintain social balance. But without proper tone or expression, they can feel cold or dismissive. That’s why tone, facial expression, and even posture matter as much as grammar.

 

From cultural norms around politeness to high-context communication, awkward questions in Korean can carry a lot of hidden pressure. What seems like small talk may actually demand emotional finesse. 

Understanding why these moments feel heavy is the first step to handling them with confidence — and grace. As we move forward, we’ll break down specific phrases and techniques you can use in these situations.

 

📋 Common Awkward Questions in Korean

Korean	Romanization	Meaning
너 요즘 왜 그렇게 살이 쪘어?	neo yojeum wae geureoke sari jyeosseo?	Why have you gained so much weight lately?
왜 그때 아무 말 안 했어?	wae geuttae amu mal an haesseo?	Why didn’t you say anything back then?
그때 기분 나빴어?	geuttae gibun nabwasseo?	Were you upset back then?

 

These questions may sound casual to native speakers, but they carry emotional weight for many learners. Being ready with a respectful way to respond — or avoid answering — will help you feel more confident in future conversations. 🧘‍♂️

 

😌 Polite Phrases to Delay or Avoid Answering

There are moments in conversation when you just don’t want to answer — not because you’re being rude, but because the question is too personal, too complicated, or too soon. 

Korean has a rich set of indirect expressions that allow you to gently avoid answering without breaking the social harmony. These phrases are especially useful in group settings, with elders, or in professional situations where bluntness could be risky.

 

One very useful phrase is 그 얘긴 좀 민감할 수 있어서요 (*geu yaegin jom mingamhal su isseoseoyo*) — "That topic could be a bit sensitive." This lets the speaker know you are not comfortable answering without being accusatory or cold. 

It acknowledges the question while gently asking for space. You might use this if someone brings up a family matter, political topic, or something you’re not ready to talk about. With the right tone and a slight smile, it can actually deepen trust rather than cause offense.

 

Another commonly used phrase is 그건 상황에 따라 좀 달라서요 (*geugeon sanghwange ttara jom dallaseoyo*) — "It really depends on the situation." This is perfect when someone is pushing for a black-or-white answer and you want to stay neutral. 

For example, if someone asks, “Are you planning to move back to your home country?” or “Is your job secure?”, this phrase helps you stay vague. You’re not lying, but you’re also not committing to a full explanation. It keeps the conversation open without opening up your personal life too much.

 

For situations where you genuinely don’t have a plan — or just don’t want to share — you can say 아직 정해진 게 없어요 (*ajik jeonghaejin ge eopseoyo*) — "Nothing is decided yet." This is especially helpful when discussing relationships, career moves, or future plans. 

It gives the impression that you're considering your options or waiting for the right moment, which usually satisfies the other person without creating distance. It's a socially acceptable way to say, “Please don’t ask me that right now.”

 

Each of these phrases works best when combined with nonverbal cues like a calm voice, friendly expression, or gentle laugh. Tone is extremely important in Korean — a phrase meant to delay can come off as cold or evasive if spoken too flatly. 

Similarly, over-apologizing can make it sound like you’re hiding something. Practice delivering these sentences in front of a mirror or with a partner to build confidence and control.

 

Another point to remember is audience. With friends or younger people, you can be more casual: “아직 몰라~ (*ajik molla~*)” (I don’t know yet~) might work. But with elders or in formal settings, using the full sentence structure and polite tone is a must. Korean society is deeply shaped by respect for hierarchy, so erring on the side of formality is usually safer.

 

What’s great about these expressions is that they buy you time — socially and emotionally. You’re not putting up a wall, you’re simply stepping to the side of the question. 

In Korean culture, that’s often seen as wisdom, not avoidance. Learning how to walk this line is a sign of maturity and cultural fluency. You’re showing that you care about the relationship even if you’re not ready to open up.

 

📋 Useful Phrases to Politely Avoid Questions

Korean	Romanization	Meaning
그 얘긴 좀 민감할 수 있어서요.	geu yaegin jom mingamhal su isseoseoyo	That topic could be a bit sensitive.
그건 상황에 따라 좀 달라서요.	geugeon sanghwange ttara jom dallaseoyo	It really depends on the situation.
아직 정해진 게 없어요.	ajik jeonghaejin ge eopseoyo	Nothing is decided yet.

 

Learning how to delay or avoid answering is a key skill not only for language fluency but also for maintaining relationships in Korean society. These phrases give you the power to navigate delicate conversations gracefully, especially when you’re not ready to reveal everything. And the best part? You can say a lot — by saying very little.

 

🔄 Strategies for Redirecting the Conversation

Sometimes, the best way to avoid a question is to not answer it at all — and instead, smoothly shift the conversation somewhere else. In Korean, this can be done with clever redirection that doesn't feel rude or dismissive. 

The goal is to preserve the flow of conversation while gently steering it away from a topic you’d rather not discuss. This strategy works especially well in social or family settings where being too direct might feel awkward.

 

One of the simplest and most effective techniques is using the phrase 그건 그렇고, 요즘은 어떤 일 하세요? (*geugeon geureohgo, yojeumeun eotteon il haseyo?*) — "Anyway, what do you do these days?" You acknowledge the original question very briefly (“that’s that...”) and immediately follow it with a fresh, open-ended question. 

This technique puts the spotlight back on the other person and encourages them to talk about themselves instead. It’s perfect for avoiding awkward or repetitive questions in networking or family events.

 

A more deliberate redirect can be done with 그 얘긴 다음에 하고, 이번에 본 영화 얘기해볼까요? (*geu yaegin daeume hago, ibeone bon yeonghwa yaegihaebolkka yo?*) — "Let’s save that for later — how about the movie we saw recently?" 

This approach is great for when the original topic is clearly sensitive or private. By suggesting a new subject explicitly, you’re not ignoring the question, but rather prioritizing the mood or appropriateness of the moment. It’s especially useful when you’re talking with someone older or in a mixed group.

 

Another redirection technique that keeps things light and positive is 그건 나중에 얘기하고, 지금은 좋은 얘기만 해요! (*geugeon najunge yaegi hago, jigeumeun joeun yaegiman haeyo!*) — "Let’s talk about that later — let’s focus on good things for now!" This works really well when emotions are high or the topic might dampen the mood. 

Instead of shutting down the conversation, you set an emotional boundary in a cheerful tone. It’s a strategy often used at dinners, holidays, or during reunions when people want to keep things upbeat.

 

In Korean culture, reading the mood — or “nunchi (눈치)” — is an essential communication skill. Redirection is one way to use your nunchi to maintain harmony and avoid tension. It’s not just about avoiding discomfort — it’s about protecting the relationship. With practice, you’ll learn how to shift topics smoothly and naturally, without sounding like you’re dodging the question.

 

When using redirection, make sure to time your transition carefully. Don’t interrupt the speaker or make the shift too obvious. A quick pause, a small laugh, or a slight nod can make the transition feel more natural. 

If you’re smiling and speaking calmly, even a direct redirection will feel smooth and friendly. It’s the tone and delivery that make the difference.

 

Lastly, remember that redirection is not about control — it’s about care. You’re guiding the conversation in a way that respects both you and the other person. The more you use these phrases, the more comfortable they’ll feel. 

They’ll become part of your conversational rhythm, helping you handle even the most uncomfortable questions with grace.

 

📋 Common Redirect Phrases in Korean

Korean	Romanization	Meaning
그건 그렇고, 요즘은 어떤 일 하세요?	geugeon geureohgo, yojeumeun eotteon il haseyo?	Anyway, what do you do these days?
그 얘긴 다음에 하고, 이번에 본 영화 얘기해볼까요?	geu yaegin daeume hago, ibeone bon yeonghwa yaegihaebolkka yo?	Let’s save that for later — how about the movie?
그건 나중에 얘기하고, 지금은 좋은 얘기만 해요!	geugeon najunge yaegi hago, jigeumeun joeun yaegiman haeyo!	Let’s talk about that later — let’s focus on good things!

 

Whether you're redirecting out of politeness, stress, or cultural awareness, these strategies are an invaluable tool in your Korean conversation toolkit. Use them with a smile, and you'll feel more confident every time the talk gets tricky.

 

🧊 Emotionally Neutral Responses That Work

In Korean, knowing how to express yourself without revealing too much emotion is an essential skill, especially when dealing with sensitive topics. While passionate responses can be effective in Western conversation, Korean dialogue often favors calm, balanced tones. 

Emotionally neutral responses let you participate in a discussion without escalating tension or appearing defensive. These responses are especially useful in business, family, or unfamiliar social settings.

 

A great example is the phrase 듣고 보니 그런 것 같기도 해요 (*deutgo boni geureon geot gatgido haeyo*) — "Now that I hear it, maybe you’re right." This sentence doesn’t fully agree or disagree with the other person. Instead, it acknowledges their point without committing to it. 

You’re reflecting back the message in a way that shows you’re listening, but keeping your own emotions in check. This is incredibly useful in group conversations or team meetings where different opinions may surface.

 

Another useful expression is 상황을 좀 더 봐야 할 것 같아요 (*sanghwang-eul jom deo bwaya hal geot gatayo*) — "I think I need to wait and see more." This lets you stay neutral when asked for your thoughts on something uncertain or controversial. 

You’re not saying “yes” or “no,” you’re simply pausing. Korean culture respects patience and caution, so this phrase is appreciated as wise rather than evasive. It’s especially useful when talking about someone else's actions or a group decision.

 

One of the most diplomatic responses is 그런 시각도 있겠네요 (*geureon sigakdo itgenneyo*) — "That’s one way to look at it." This acknowledges that the other person’s opinion is valid, but it doesn’t imply agreement or endorsement. 

It can defuse a potentially charged conversation by shifting focus to perspectives rather than positions. If someone says, “I think working overtime is a sign of loyalty,” you could respond with this phrase to stay polite but noncommittal.

 

In Korean, avoiding emotional intensity doesn’t mean you’re avoiding the conversation. It means you’re choosing peace and clarity. Bold or exaggerated reactions can be interpreted as aggressive, so emotionally neutral replies help maintain balance. These phrases signal maturity, poise, and an understanding of social harmony.

 

Another advantage of these responses is that they leave room for change. You’re not locking yourself into an opinion or commitment. This gives you flexibility — and in Korea, where group consensus often matters, being flexible can be more important than being assertive. Emotionally neutral language helps you float above the fray while still staying engaged.

 

These sentences are also useful for learners. Since they are grammatically complete, polite, and natural-sounding, they can be your go-to phrases when you're not sure what to say. Mastering emotionally neutral responses will allow you to participate in Korean conversations without anxiety — even when the topic is tricky or uncomfortable.

 

📋 Emotionally Neutral Phrases in Korean

Korean	Romanization	Meaning
듣고 보니 그런 것 같기도 해요.	deutgo boni geureon geot gatgido haeyo	Now that I hear it, maybe you’re right.
상황을 좀 더 봐야 할 것 같아요.	sanghwang-eul jom deo bwaya hal geot gatayo	I think I need to wait and see more.
그런 시각도 있겠네요.	geureon sigakdo itgenneyo	That’s one way to look at it.

 

Emotionally neutral phrases aren’t cold — they’re thoughtful. They help you maintain social harmony, protect your boundaries, and show respect. If you’re unsure how to react, these expressions will serve you well without revealing too much.

 

😶 When Silence Speaks Louder – Choosing Not to Respond

Not every question needs an answer. In Korean communication, silence isn’t awkward — it’s often intentional. Choosing not to respond, especially in moments of discomfort or privacy, is a valid strategy rooted in cultural nuance. 

Sometimes, how you avoid a topic says more than what you say. The trick is to let your body language and gentle cues deliver your message without making things tense.

 

Let’s say someone asks you, “So, are you dating anyone right now?” If you smile lightly and turn your head without saying anything — (웃으며 말없이 고개를 돌림) (*ut-eumyeo mal-eopsi gogae-reul dollim*) — you’re communicating, “I’d rather not answer,” without a single word. 

The person asking will likely pick up on this and drop the topic. In Korea, this kind of non-verbal response is completely acceptable and even considered graceful in some circles.

 

A more playful and socially safe gesture is to smile and make a “pass” motion with your hand — (손으로 웃으며 ‘패스’ 제스처) (*son-euro useumyeo 'paeseu' jesucheo*). It adds humor and lightness to a potentially sensitive moment. 

This is commonly used among friends or coworkers when you don’t want to get into something, but don’t want to seem too serious either. You’re showing your boundary, but doing it with charm.

 

In more modern or digital settings, a common move is to simply smile and glance down at your phone — (미소 지으며 핸드폰 보기) (*jamkkan miso jieumyeo haendeupon bomyeo mal dollim*). It’s a polite and passive way of signaling, “I’m done with this topic.” 

In a group, this technique often shifts the attention to someone else or to a neutral activity, like checking the group chat or a shared schedule. It’s subtle, but clear.

 

These silent responses are part of what Koreans call “nunchi” — the ability to read the room and react accordingly. Rather than confront directly, silence allows you to deflect, protect, and even soften tension. This is especially helpful when dealing with elders, superiors, or anyone you’d like to show extra respect to.

 

One important note: silence doesn’t mean disinterest. In Korean culture, being quiet can still show engagement, as long as your body language is warm. A nod, a smile, or even a short laugh tells the other person you’re present, just not ready to answer. This way, you maintain the relationship without exposing your personal details.

 

As a learner, mastering these gestures helps you feel less pressured when you don’t know what to say. You’ll realize that saying nothing — in the right way — is still part of the conversation. These responses are powerful, especially when words might cause discomfort or misunderstanding.

 

🤐 Non-Verbal or Minimal Verbal Korean Responses

Korean / Action	Romanization	Meaning
(웃으며 말없이 고개를 돌림)	ut-eumyeo mal-eopsi gogae-reul dollim	Smiles and turns head without speaking
(손으로 웃으며 ‘패스’ 제스처)	son-euro useumyeo 'paeseu' jesucheo	Waves hand with a smile ("pass" gesture)
(미소 지으며 핸드폰 보기)	jamkkan miso jieumyeo haendeupon bomyeo mal dollim	Brief smile, then looks at phone to redirect

 

Whether you're trying to protect your privacy or simply avoid a difficult question, silence — when done with intent — can speak volumes. Use these techniques with awareness and warmth, and you’ll become more confident in managing tough moments in Korean conversations.

 

🤝 Balancing Honesty and Harmony – Final Strategies

Being honest in Korean doesn't mean being blunt. It means being thoughtful, especially when you're expressing a different opinion. In a culture where harmony often takes precedence over confrontation, it’s important to balance your own truth with sensitivity to others. You don’t have to lie to be polite — you just have to choose your words with care.

 

Take the phrase 솔직히 말씀드리면, 저는 좀 다르게 생각해요 (*soljiki malsseumdeurimyeon, jeoneun jom dareuge saenggakhaeyo*) — "To be honest, I think a bit differently." This expression acknowledges your truth, while using respectful and softened language. 

It’s useful in work settings or group discussions, where you want to share a different viewpoint without offending someone. The phrase sets the tone gently, letting the listener prepare to hear something contrasting.

 

Another excellent way to offer a differing view is 이런 관점도 있다는 걸 알아주셨으면 해요 (*ireon gwanjeomdo itdaneun geol arajusyeosseumyeon haeyo*) — "I hope you can also understand this perspective." This kind of phrasing asks for understanding rather than forcing agreement. 

It’s a common way to introduce new ideas in Korean, especially when you’re speaking to someone older or in a higher position. The goal isn’t to win the argument, but to widen the conversation.

 

For situations where you genuinely disagree, but don’t want to sound cold or harsh, try saying 동의는 안 하지만, 그런 생각이 왜 나왔는지는 이해해요 (*donguineun an hajiman, geureon saenggagi wae nawannunjineun ihaehaeyo*) — "I don’t agree, but I understand where that thought came from." 

This expression allows you to separate yourself from the opinion, while still showing empathy. It’s a powerful tool in relationships, where mutual respect is more important than being right.

 

These kinds of expressions are not about manipulation or avoiding conflict. They’re about choosing language that supports healthy dialogue. By showing you care about the other person's perspective, you invite them to care about yours too. It’s a reciprocal process that builds trust.

 

In Korean society, harmony isn’t just a social nicety — it’s often expected. But that doesn’t mean you have to suppress your own voice. The key is how you phrase things. Words like “다르게 생각해요 (I think differently)” are seen as more cooperative than “틀렸어요 (You’re wrong),” even if the meaning is similar. Tone and choice of words make all the difference.

 

As a Korean learner, these strategies will help you avoid common communication pitfalls. You’ll feel more confident sharing your opinions without fear of sounding rude or awkward. And more importantly, you’ll become a better listener, which in turn makes you a more respected speaker.

 

🗣️ Honest but Respectful Expressions

Korean	Romanization	Meaning
솔직히 말씀드리면, 저는 좀 다르게 생각해요.	soljiki malsseumdeurimyeon, jeoneun jom dareuge saenggakhaeyo	To be honest, I think a bit differently.
이런 관점도 있다는 걸 알아주셨으면 해요.	ireon gwanjeomdo itdaneun geol arajusyeosseumyeon haeyo	I hope you can also understand this perspective.
동의는 안 하지만, 그런 생각이 왜 나왔는지는 이해해요.	donguineun an hajiman, geureon saenggagi wae nawannunjineun ihaehaeyo	I don’t agree, but I understand where that thought came from.

 

By using language that honors both yourself and the person you’re speaking with, you practice the kind of respectful honesty that Korean culture values deeply. With practice, these expressions will feel natural — and so will the harmony they create.

 

📝 FAQ – 30 Useful Phrases & Cultural Tips

Q1. How do I politely disagree without sounding rude?

A1. Try: 그건 좀 아닌 것 같아요 (geugeon jom anin geot gatayo) – “I don’t quite agree with that.” This expression softens disagreement while signaling your viewpoint respectfully.

 

Q2. What does “글쎄요…” mean in a conversation?

A2. 글쎄요 (geulsseyo) translates to “Well...” or “Hmm...” It’s a soft, vague response often used to buy time or avoid giving a direct opinion.

 

Q3. Is it okay to say “솔직히 말씀드리면” when I disagree?

A3. Yes! 솔직히 말씀드리면 (soljiki malsseumdeurimyeon) means “To be honest...” and is often followed by a respectful opinion. It’s a gentle way to introduce disagreement.

 

Q4. How do I recognize a passive disagreement in Korean?

A4. Look for phrases like 그런 생각도 있겠네요 (geureon saenggakdo itgenneyo) – “That’s one way to think about it.” It signals polite non-agreement without confrontation.

 

Q5. Can I say “다르게 느꼈어요” without sounding cold?

A5. Absolutely. 저는 좀 다르게 느꼈어요 (jeoneun jom dareuge neukkyeosseoyo) means “I felt a bit differently.” It’s neutral and avoids conflict while expressing your stance.

 

Q6. What does “그 얘긴 다음에요” imply?

A6. 그 얘긴 다음에요 (geu yaegin daeume-yo) means “Let’s talk about that later.” It’s a respectful way to delay or avoid discussing something uncomfortable.

 

Q7. Is silence considered rude in Korean conversation?

A7. Not at all. Strategic silence can show thoughtfulness. For example, smiling and turning your head signals gentle refusal without speaking.

 

Q8. How do I “pass” on a question without saying no?

A8. Use a playful gesture like (손으로 웃으며 ‘패스’ 제스처) (son-euro useumyeo 'paeseu' jesucheo) – smiling and waving your hand like “pass.” It’s light and socially accepted.

 

Q9. What’s a respectful way to say “I don’t agree” but still be supportive?

A9. Try: 동의는 안 하지만, 그런 생각이 왜 나왔는지는 이해해요 (donguineun an hajiman, geureon saenggagi wae nawannunjineun ihaehaeyo) – “I don’t agree, but I understand where you're coming from.”

 

Q10. How can I introduce a different viewpoint politely?

A10. Use: 이런 관점도 있다는 걸 알아주셨으면 해요 (ireon gwanjeomdo itdaneun geol arajusyeosseumyeon haeyo) – “I hope you can also understand this perspective.” It’s soft, humble, and often appreciated.

 

Q11. How do Koreans say “Let’s move on” politely?

A11. Try: 다른 얘기 해볼까요? (dareun yaegi haebolkka-yo?) – “Shall we talk about something else?” It gently redirects the topic without sounding abrupt.

 

Q12. Is there a way to disagree by asking a question?

A12. Yes! Try: 혹시 이렇게도 볼 수 있지 않을까요? (hoksi ireoke-do bol su itji aneulkkayo?) – “Could we maybe see it this way?” It opens discussion rather than shutting it down.

 

Q13. What’s a phrase to express a personal feeling without sounding dramatic?

A13. Use: 저는 그냥 그렇게 느꼈어요 (jeoneun geunyang geureoke neukkyeosseoyo) – “That’s just how I felt.” It shows humility and avoids making it universal.

 

Q14. How can I avoid answering without being obvious?

A14. A smile + quick subject change often works. Or say 그 얘긴 좀 민감할 수 있어서요 (geu yaegin jom mingamhal su isseoseoyo) – “That topic could be a bit sensitive.”

 

Q15. Is it rude to ignore a question in Korean culture?

A15. Not always. If done with a polite smile or calm body language, silence can be a soft “no” or “not now.”

 

Q16. What phrase shows gentle agreement with a twist?

A16. Try: 말씀은 맞습니다. 그런데 이런 자료도 봤어요 (malsseumeun majseumnida. geureonde ireon jaryodo bwasseoyo) – “You make a good point, but I also saw this.”

 

Q17. How do I show I’m unsure but engaged?

A17. Use: 듣고 보니 그런 것 같기도 해요 (deutgo boni geureon geot gatgido haeyo) – “Now that I hear it, maybe you’re right.” It shows thoughtfulness.

 

Q18. What’s a safe way to not respond at all?

A18. Brief eye contact and a nod, followed by changing the subject or action (like sipping tea or checking your phone) works well.

 

Q19. What does “패스” mean when used with a hand gesture?

A19. “패스” (paeseu) means “pass.” Accompanied by a light wave or smile, it humorously declines answering something.

 

Q20. How do I invite someone to explain more if I don’t understand?

A20. Ask: 그건 어떤 의미에서 하신 말씀이에요? (geugeon eotteon uimieseo hasin malsseum-ieyo?) – “In what sense did you mean that?”

 

Q21. How do I gently challenge someone’s assumption?

A21. Try: 그건 다르게 볼 수도 있을 것 같아요 (geugeon dareuge bol sudo isseul geot gatayo) – “That might be seen differently.” It opens space for reinterpretation.

 

Q22. What’s a respectful way to ask for clarification?

A22. Use: 혹시 이유를 들어볼 수 있을까요? (hoksi iyureul deureobol su isseulkkayo?) – “May I ask why?” It’s polite, curious, and non-confrontational.

 

Q23. How can I say “I see where you’re coming from” in Korean?

A23. Say: 그럴 수도 있겠네요 (geureol sudo itgenneyo) – “That could be possible.” It affirms their thought without necessarily agreeing.

 

Q24. Is there a polite way to suggest research or evidence?

A24. Yes! Try: 이런 자료도 있더라고요 (ireon jaryodo itdeoragoyo) – “I came across some info like this.” It’s soft and non-defensive.

 

Q25. How do I soften disagreement when someone is older?

A25. Say: 말씀은 맞습니다. 그런데 이런 시각도 있더라고요 (malsseumeun majseumnida. geureonde ireon sigakdo itdeoragoyo) – “You’re right, but I’ve also heard this view.”

 

Q26. How do I say “I need time to think” politely?

A26. Use: 조금 생각해보고 말씀드릴게요 (jogeum saenggakhaebogo malsseumdeurilgeyo) – “Let me think it over and get back to you.”

 

Q27. How can I validate someone’s feelings without agreeing?

A27. Try: 그런 마음이 드실 수도 있겠네요 (geureon maeumi deusil sudo itgenneyo) – “I can understand why you’d feel that way.”

 

Q28. What do I say if I don’t want to continue a topic?

A28. Use: 그 얘기는 여기까지만 할게요 (geu yaegineun yeogikkajiman halgeyo) – “Let’s stop here for now.” It’s firm but not aggressive.

 

Q29. How can I say “That’s not really for me” in Korean?

A29. Say: 저는 그건 잘 안 맞는 것 같아요 (jeoneun geugeon jal an matneun geot gatayo) – “That’s probably not the best fit for me.”

 

Q30. Can I use humor to escape an awkward moment?

A30. Definitely. Smile and say: 이건 비밀이에요~ (igeon bimilieyo~) – “That’s a secret~” It’s playful, not dismissive.

 

Disclaimer: The content in this post is intended for educational and cultural learning purposes only. It does not represent official language certification guidance or professional interpretation. Always consider context, relationship, and tone when applying these phrases in real-life situations.