Signification
To be proud and condescending, looking down on others.
Contexte culturel
In Korea, humility is a core virtue. Calling someone '콧대가 높다' is a way to socially sanction them for breaking this norm. Similar to 'looking down one's nose,' this idiom reflects a universal human tendency to associate physical height with social status. Be careful! In Japanese, '鼻が高い' is a compliment (pride in a good way), whereas in Korean, it is an insult. The nose is a central symbol of pride and honor in many Middle Eastern cultures, making the 'nose in the sky' metaphor very common.
Context is Key
Always check if you are talking about beauty or attitude before using this phrase.
Don't be Rude
This is a negative label. Don't use it to describe someone you want to be friends with.
Signification
To be proud and condescending, looking down on others.
Context is Key
Always check if you are talking about beauty or attitude before using this phrase.
Don't be Rude
This is a negative label. Don't use it to describe someone you want to be friends with.
Humility First
Remember that Korean culture values modesty; this phrase is a strong critique of someone who lacks it.
Teste-toi
Fill in the blank with the correct form.
그는 인기가 많아지더니 ___________.
When someone becomes popular, they often become arrogant (콧대가 높아지다).
Which sentence is correct?
Choose the sentence that correctly uses the idiom.
Arrogant people are often isolated because they are difficult to approach.
Complete the dialogue.
A: 쟤 왜 저렇게 잘난 척해? B: ___________.
This confirms that the person has always been arrogant.
Match the situation to the phrase.
Someone who thinks they are better than everyone else.
The definition of the idiom is to be arrogant or condescending.
🎉 Score : /4
Aides visuelles
Banque d exercices
4 exercices그는 인기가 많아지더니 ___________.
When someone becomes popular, they often become arrogant (콧대가 높아지다).
Choose the sentence that correctly uses the idiom.
Arrogant people are often isolated because they are difficult to approach.
A: 쟤 왜 저렇게 잘난 척해? B: ___________.
This confirms that the person has always been arrogant.
Someone who thinks they are better than everyone else.
The definition of the idiom is to be arrogant or condescending.
🎉 Score : /4
Questions fréquentes
12 questionsYes, it is almost always used to criticize someone's arrogance.
Only if you are gossiping with a close friend. Never say it to your boss.
'콧대가 높다' is an idiom, while '오만하다' is a formal adjective.
You use the phrase '콧대를 꺾다'.
No, it has nothing to do with height.
Because the nose bridge is the most prominent part of the face.
No, that is not a standard phrase.
Only in informal discussions about competitors or difficult partners.
Then you say '코가 높다' (physical beauty).
Yes, very common when a character is being a snob.
Yes, if the company is being difficult or arrogant.
No, it can be used for anyone.
Expressions liées
콧대를 꺾다
contrastTo humble someone
잘난 척하다
similarTo act superior
콧대가 세다
similarTo be stubborn/proud
오만하다
similarTo be arrogant
