Significado
A polite way to invite someone to talk or state their opinion.
Contexto cultural
In Korean business culture, silence is often a sign of respect. When a senior person says '말씀하세요', it is a crucial signal that the junior person is now allowed to break that silence without being seen as aggressive. The use of '말씀' extends to written Korean. In formal letters or emails, you might see '말씀하신 대로' (As you said), which is a very respectful way to reference the recipient's previous comments. On Korean variety shows, you'll often hear hosts say '말씀하세요' to guests who are shy, often accompanied by a supportive gesture. It's a way of 'giving the spotlight.' The concept of 'Kkondae' (an old person who lectures others) is often avoided by using '말씀하세요' to show that you are willing to listen rather than just talk at others.
The 'Nod' Factor
When you say '말씀하세요', always give a small, polite nod. It reinforces the verbal respect with physical etiquette.
Don't use for yourself!
Never say '제가 말씀하세요' to mean 'I am speaking.' That's like calling yourself 'Your Majesty.'
Significado
A polite way to invite someone to talk or state their opinion.
The 'Nod' Factor
When you say '말씀하세요', always give a small, polite nod. It reinforces the verbal respect with physical etiquette.
Don't use for yourself!
Never say '제가 말씀하세요' to mean 'I am speaking.' That's like calling yourself 'Your Majesty.'
The Phone Greeting
If you're not sure who is calling, '네, 말씀하세요' is a safe, professional way to answer after the initial '여보세요'.
Wait for the gap
Koreans value silence. Don't rush to say '말씀하세요' the second someone stops breathing; wait for a natural beat.
Ponte a prueba
Which phrase is most appropriate when your boss says they have something to tell you?
Boss: '김 대리, 잠깐 이야기 좀 할까요?' (Manager Kim, shall we talk for a moment?)
'말씀하세요' is the standard polite response to a superior in a normal office setting.
Fill in the blank to complete the polite invitation to speak.
질문이 있으시면 편하게 ________.
The context of '질문이 있으시면' (If you have a question) implies a polite setting where '말씀하세요' is best.
Match the phrase to the situation.
1. To a close friend. 2. To a customer. 3. To a General in the army.
Friends use Banmal (말해), customers get standard politeness (말씀하세요), and high-ranking officials get formal style (말씀하십시오).
Complete the phone conversation.
A: 여보세요? 거기 한국 식당이죠? B: 네, 맞습니다. ________.
A restaurant staff member would use '말씀하세요' to invite the caller to make a reservation or ask a question.
🎉 Puntuación: /4
Ayudas visuales
Speech Levels of 'Speak'
Banco de ejercicios
4 ejerciciosBoss: '김 대리, 잠깐 이야기 좀 할까요?' (Manager Kim, shall we talk for a moment?)
'말씀하세요' is the standard polite response to a superior in a normal office setting.
질문이 있으시면 편하게 ________.
The context of '질문이 있으시면' (If you have a question) implies a polite setting where '말씀하세요' is best.
1. To a close friend. 2. To a customer. 3. To a General in the army.
Friends use Banmal (말해), customers get standard politeness (말씀하세요), and high-ranking officials get formal style (말씀하십시오).
A: 여보세요? 거기 한국 식당이죠? B: 네, 맞습니다. ________.
A restaurant staff member would use '말씀하세요' to invite the caller to make a reservation or ask a question.
🎉 Puntuación: /4
Preguntas frecuentes
10 preguntasYes, it is perfect for that! It shows you respect their status.
It's technically a polite imperative (a request), but it functions as an invitation. It's rarely a 'command' in the harsh sense.
Apologize immediately! Say '죄송합니다, 말씀하세요.' Most will understand you are a learner, but it is a big mistake.
That's tricky. You might say '잠시만 기다려 주세요' (Please wait a moment) instead of telling them not to speak.
Not really. Slang usually moves away from honorifics. Young people might just say '말해봐' (Tell me).
Yes, but it can also mean 'word' or 'teaching' in a religious or philosophical context.
Yes, if you are texting someone you need to be polite to, like a client or a professor.
'말씀하세요' is more formal and honors the speaker more than '이야기하세요'.
The '네' (Yes) acts as an acknowledgment that you've heard them and are ready to listen.
Yes, it is gender-neutral. It only depends on social hierarchy and politeness.
Frases relacionadas
말씀하십시오
specialized formPlease speak (very formal)
말씀해 보세요
similarTry to speak / Go ahead and tell me
이야기하세요
similarPlease talk / Tell a story
말해
contrastSpeak (casual)
말씀드릴게요
builds onI will tell you (humble)
