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A2 interjection #3,000 よく出る 14分で読める

글쎄요

geulsseyo
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解説 글쎄요 in your Level:
At the A1 level, a beginner learner of Korean is primarily focused on survival vocabulary, basic greetings, and simple sentence structures. The introduction of the interjection 글쎄요 at this stage is usually highly contextualized and taught as a fixed, unanalyzed chunk of language. A1 learners are taught that when someone asks them a question in Korean that they do not understand, or to which they do not know the answer, they can use this word as a polite escape hatch. It is presented as a direct equivalent to the English phrase 'Well, I don't know.' At this stage, learners are not expected to understand the complex pragmatic functions of face-saving or indirect disagreement. They simply learn it as a useful vocabulary item to memorize alongside '네' (yes) and '아니요' (no). Teachers will often drill this word in simple Q&A exercises. For example, the teacher might point to a picture of an unfamiliar object and ask, '이것이 무엇입니까?' (What is this?), prompting the student to reply, '글쎄요.' The primary goal for an A1 learner is to recognize the word when spoken by a native speaker and to be able to produce it intelligibly when they are confused or lack the vocabulary to answer a question. They learn that the '요' at the end makes it polite, which is safe to use with their teacher. They might struggle with the pronunciation of the double consonant 'ㅆ' (ss), often pronouncing it too softly, but the general communicative intent is usually achieved. At this foundational level, the word serves as a crucial confidence builder, giving the learner a culturally appropriate way to manage their lack of knowledge without feeling embarrassed or resorting to their native language. It is their first step into the world of Korean conversational fillers.
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As learners progress to the A2 level, their understanding of Korean grammar and vocabulary expands significantly. They can now form simple sentences, express basic opinions, and engage in routine daily conversations. At this stage, the understanding of 글쎄요 deepens from a simple 'I don't know' to a marker of genuine hesitation and polite uncertainty. A2 learners begin to realize that this word is not just an admission of ignorance, but a tool to buy time while they construct a sentence in their head. They start to use it more naturally in role-play scenarios, such as ordering food, asking for directions, or discussing weekend plans. For instance, when asked, '주말에 뭐 할 거예요?' (What are you going to do this weekend?), an A2 learner might respond, '글쎄요... 아마 영화를 볼 거예요' (Well... maybe I will watch a movie). This demonstrates a significant cognitive leap: they are using the interjection to hold the conversational floor while they access the future tense grammar ('~을 거예요') and the relevant vocabulary. Furthermore, A2 learners are introduced to the concept of register. They learn the casual form '글쎄' and begin to understand the critical difference between using the polite form with a shopkeeper and the casual form with a language exchange partner. They also start to notice the intonation patterns used by native speakers, recognizing that a drawn-out '글쎄요...' sounds softer and more thoughtful. While they may still occasionally overuse it or place it awkwardly, their usage becomes much more intentional and contextually appropriate. It transitions from a mere survival phrase to an active component of their conversational toolkit, helping them navigate simple social interactions with a growing sense of cultural awareness and politeness.
At the B1 intermediate level, learners are capable of maintaining extended conversations on familiar topics, expressing abstract thoughts, and understanding the main points of clear standard input. The usage of 글쎄요 at this stage becomes highly nuanced and pragmatic. B1 learners fully grasp that this interjection is a powerful tool for indirectness and face-saving, which are core tenets of Korean communication. They begin to use it deliberately to soften disagreements or to politely decline invitations without causing offense. For example, if a friend suggests a restaurant they dislike, instead of saying a blunt '싫어요' (I hate it), a B1 learner will naturally deploy '글쎄요, 거기는 좀...' (Well, that place is a bit...). This shows a sophisticated understanding of how to manage interpersonal harmony. They also start pairing the interjection with more complex grammatical structures that express probability, deduction, or personal opinion, such as '~은/는 것 같아요' (it seems like) or '~을지도 몰라요' (might). The word is no longer just a filler; it is a strategic conversational device. B1 learners are also exposed to a wider variety of authentic materials, such as dramas and unscripted interviews, where they hear the word used in rapid, natural speech. They learn to interpret the subtle emotional undertones conveyed by different intonations—whether the speaker is genuinely unsure, mildly annoyed, or politely evasive. At this level, teachers focus on correcting any lingering unnatural usage, ensuring the learner doesn't use it mid-sentence or in inappropriate formal contexts like a structured presentation. The mastery of this word at the B1 level marks a significant step toward conversational fluency, allowing the learner to sound less like a textbook and more like a culturally competent speaker navigating the subtleties of human interaction.
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Reaching the B2 upper-intermediate level means the learner has achieved a high degree of fluency and spontaneity. They can understand complex texts and interact with native speakers without strain for either party. For a B2 learner, the interjection 글쎄요 is completely internalized. They do not need to consciously think about translating it; it flows naturally as part of their spoken Korean rhythm. At this stage, the focus shifts to the absolute precision of its pragmatic use. B2 learners understand the micro-contexts where using this word might be perceived as passive-aggressive or overly evasive, and they know when a more direct approach is culturally required. They can expertly manipulate the length and tone of the word to convey exact shades of meaning—a short, sharp '글쎄요' to shut down a line of questioning, or a long, drawn-out '글쎄요...' to invite collaboration in solving a problem. Furthermore, B2 learners are adept at using the casual form '글쎄' in complex social dynamics, such as playfully teasing a close friend or expressing mild skepticism about a rumor. They also understand its role in professional settings, using it to navigate delicate negotiations or to respectfully disagree with a superior's proposal without crossing the line into insubordination. At this level, the word is seamlessly integrated with advanced vocabulary and high-level grammar patterns. A B2 learner might say, '글쎄요, 그 제안의 타당성에 대해서는 재고의 여지가 있다고 봅니다' (Well, I believe there is room for reconsideration regarding the validity of that proposal). This demonstrates the ability to use a simple, everyday interjection to anchor a highly sophisticated, formal, and abstract thought process, showcasing a deep mastery of both the language and the underlying cultural pragmatics.
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At the C1 advanced level, learners possess a near-native command of the language. They can express themselves fluently and spontaneously without much obvious searching for expressions, and they use language flexibly and effectively for social, academic, and professional purposes. For a C1 speaker, the use of 글쎄요 is indistinguishable from that of an educated native speaker. They possess an intuitive, almost instinctual grasp of its sociolinguistic weight. At this level, the word is utilized not just for basic hesitation or polite disagreement, but for sophisticated rhetorical maneuvering. A C1 speaker might use it in a debate to subtly undermine an opponent's argument by feigning uncertainty, thereby making their own subsequent counter-argument seem more reasoned and objective. They understand the dialectal variations and the generational differences in how hesitation markers are used across Korea. They can effortlessly switch between '글쎄요', '글쎄', and other related pragmatic markers like '아무래도' or '어쩌면' depending on the microscopic shifts in the social dynamic of the conversation. In professional environments, a C1 speaker uses this word to masterfully manage expectations, employing it to deliver bad news softly or to gently guide a client away from an unrealistic demand. They are also acutely aware of the written vs. spoken divide, knowing that while this word is essential for oral fluency, it has almost no place in formal written documents, academic papers, or official reports. The C1 learner's mastery of this simple interjection is a testament to their profound understanding of Korean 'nunchi'—the subtle art of gauging others' moods and responding appropriately. It reflects a level of cultural immersion where the language is no longer a tool being actively wielded, but a natural extension of their thought process.
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The C2 level represents mastery or proficiency, where the learner can understand with ease virtually everything heard or read, and can summarize information from different spoken and written sources, reconstructing arguments and accounts in a coherent presentation. At this pinnacle of language acquisition, the interjection 글쎄요 is handled with absolute perfection. A C2 speaker understands the deepest etymological roots and the historical evolution of the word, perhaps even recognizing its connections to older forms of Korean hesitation markers. They can analyze its usage in classic Korean literature or modern cinema, deconstructing how authors and directors use it to reveal deep psychological truths about their characters. For a C2 speaker, the word is a brushstroke in the intricate painting of Korean discourse. They can use it to express profound philosophical doubt, to inject dry, subtle humor into a conversation, or to navigate the most complex, high-stakes diplomatic or corporate negotiations with flawless cultural grace. They are capable of meta-linguistic discussions about the word itself, explaining its nuances to lower-level learners or comparing its pragmatic function to similar markers in other languages they speak. They understand that '글쎄요' is a reflection of the Korean soul—a linguistic manifestation of the desire for harmony, the respect for hierarchy, and the careful, deliberate approach to interpersonal relationships. At the C2 level, there are no mistakes, no awkward pauses, and no inappropriate usages. The word is deployed with the exact precision, tone, and timing required by the specific micro-second of the social interaction, demonstrating a mastery that goes beyond mere vocabulary and grammar into the realm of true cultural and linguistic symbiosis.
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글쎄요 30秒で

  • This versatile Korean interjection is primarily utilized to express a sense of hesitation or uncertainty when a speaker is confronted with a difficult or unexpected question.
  • By using this specific expression, speakers can effectively buy themselves valuable cognitive processing time to formulate an appropriate and culturally polite response to the listener.
  • It serves as a crucial pragmatic tool for softening disagreements, allowing individuals to avoid blunt refusals which might otherwise damage interpersonal harmony and social relationships.
  • The addition of the polite suffix 'yo' ensures that this hesitation marker remains entirely appropriate for formal or semi-formal situations involving colleagues, acquaintances, or elders.
The Korean interjection 글쎄요 is a fascinating and highly versatile linguistic tool that serves multiple communicative functions in everyday discourse. When we delve into the core meaning of this expression, we uncover a complex layer of pragmatics that goes far beyond a simple dictionary translation. At its most fundamental level, 글쎄요 is often translated into English as 'Well, I don't know' or 'Let me see,' but these English equivalents only scratch the surface of its true sociolinguistic depth. It is a word that embodies the Korean cultural preference for indirectness, politeness, and the preservation of interpersonal harmony. When a speaker uses this term, they are rarely expressing absolute, complete ignorance. Instead, they are signaling a state of cognitive processing, hesitation, or a gentle reluctance to provide a direct, potentially face-threatening answer.

A: 내일 비가 올까요? B: 글쎄요, 일기예보를 안 봐서요.

This hesitation marker is particularly crucial in high-context communication environments where a blunt 'no' or 'I don't know' might be perceived as abrupt, dismissive, or even rude. By employing this interjection, the speaker softens the impact of their uncertainty or disagreement. The word itself is derived from the base form 글쎄, which carries the same core meaning of hesitation but is used in casual speech among close friends or to subordinates. The addition of the polite suffix 요 elevates the register, making it appropriate for use with acquaintances, colleagues, strangers, or anyone to whom the speaker wishes to show a standard level of respect.
Linguistic Function
Acts as a pragmatic marker of hesitation, epistemic uncertainty, and negative politeness in conversational Korean.

A: 이 영화 재미있어요? B: 글쎄요, 제 취향은 아니었어요.

Understanding the nuances of this expression requires an appreciation of how Koreans navigate social interactions. It is not merely a filler word like 'um' or 'uh' in English, although it can sometimes occupy a similar syntactic space. Rather, it is a deliberate communicative choice. When asked a difficult question, a Korean speaker might draw out the pronunciation of the word, elongating the final syllable to audibly demonstrate that they are actively searching for the right words or carefully considering the implications of their response.

A: 그 사람이 올까요? B: 글쎄요... 아마 안 올 것 같아요.

Cultural Context
Reflects the cultural value placed on 'nunchi' (social intelligence) and the avoidance of direct confrontation or blunt refusal.
Furthermore, this interjection can also be used to express a polite, indirect disagreement. If someone makes a statement that the listener does not entirely agree with, responding with this word is a way of saying, 'I have a different opinion, but I don't want to flatly contradict you.' This usage is incredibly common in business meetings, negotiations, and sensitive personal conversations. It provides a conversational buffer, allowing the original speaker to save face while simultaneously signaling that their proposition has not been fully accepted.

A: 이 계획이 완벽하지 않나요? B: 글쎄요, 몇 가지 수정할 부분이 있는 것 같습니다.

Syntactic Placement
Almost exclusively appears at the absolute beginning of an utterance, serving as an introductory frame for the sentence that follows.
In summary, mastering the use of this seemingly simple interjection is a significant milestone for any Korean language learner. It demonstrates a transition from merely translating vocabulary words to truly understanding the pragmatic and cultural underpinnings of Korean communication. It is a testament to the fact that in Korean, how you say something—and how you manage the emotional and social space between yourself and your interlocutor—is often just as important as the literal information you are conveying.

A: 주말에 같이 등산 갈래요? B: 글쎄요, 제가 주말에 일정이 어떻게 될지 몰라서요.

By incorporating this word into your active vocabulary, you will immediately sound more natural, more polite, and more attuned to the subtle rhythms of native Korean speech.
Learning how to use the Korean interjection 글쎄요 correctly involves mastering its placement, intonation, and the specific conversational contexts in which it thrives. Unlike standard nouns or verbs, this word does not follow complex conjugation rules or require specific particles. Its difficulty lies entirely in its pragmatic application. To begin with, the syntactic placement of this word is incredibly straightforward: it almost always appears at the very beginning of an utterance. It acts as a conversational gateway, a brief pause that sets the tone for whatever follows. You will rarely, if ever, see it buried in the middle of a clause or attached to the end of a sentence as a suffix.

A: 이 식당 맛있어요? B: 글쎄요, 저는 그냥 그랬어요.

When someone asks you a question, and you need a moment to formulate your answer, you immediately deploy this word. It effectively holds the floor, preventing awkward silence while signaling to the listener that an answer is forthcoming. Intonation plays a massive role in how the meaning of this word is interpreted by the listener. If you say it quickly and sharply, it can sometimes come across as slightly dismissive or indicate a strong, albeit indirect, negative response.
Short Intonation
A quick, clipped pronunciation often signals a more definitive 'I don't know' or a subtle refusal to engage further with the topic.

A: 그 소문 진짜예요? B: 글쎄요. (Quickly, ending the conversation)

Conversely, if you elongate the final syllable, drawing it out into a slow, thoughtful sound, it heavily emphasizes the hesitation and cognitive processing aspect. This elongated version is highly effective when you want to show that you are taking the question seriously and genuinely trying to come up with a helpful or accurate response, even if you are currently unsure.

A: 다음 프로젝트는 누가 맡을까요? B: 글쎄요... 아직 결정된 바가 없는 것 같습니다.

Elongated Intonation
A drawn-out pronunciation indicates deep thought, genuine uncertainty, or a very careful approach to a sensitive topic.
Another critical aspect of using this word is pairing it with the correct follow-up statements. Because it is a marker of hesitation or uncertainty, it is naturally followed by phrases that express doubt, lack of knowledge, or a contrasting opinion. Common follow-up phrases include '잘 모르겠어요' (I don't really know), '아마도' (maybe), or sentences ending in the deductive suffix '~을/ㄹ 것 같아요' (it seems like / I think that). You would not typically use this word and then follow it up with a strong, absolute statement of fact, as that would create a jarring pragmatic contradiction.

A: 이 주식이 오를까요? B: 글쎄요, 시장 상황을 좀 더 지켜봐야 할 것 같아요.

Collocational Patterns
Frequently pairs with verbs of knowing or thinking in the negative, or with grammar structures indicating probability rather than certainty.
It is also important to remember the register. The '요' at the end makes it polite (해요체). Therefore, it is perfectly suited for conversations with colleagues, people older than you, or strangers. If you are speaking to a close friend or someone significantly younger, you should drop the '요' and simply use '글쎄'. Using the polite form with a very close friend might sound artificially distant or sarcastic, while using the casual form with a boss would be highly inappropriate.

A: 이번 주말에 만날 수 있어요? B: 글쎄요, 약속이 있는지 확인해 봐야 해요.

By paying attention to these details—placement at the beginning, appropriate intonation, logical follow-up phrases, and correct social register—you can wield this interjection with the same effortless grace as a native Korean speaker, significantly enhancing your conversational fluency.
The interjection 글쎄요 is utterly ubiquitous in the Korean language. It is not an obscure vocabulary word reserved for academic texts or formal literature; rather, it is the lifeblood of daily spoken Korean. You will hear it in virtually every conceivable social setting, from the most casual encounters at a local convenience store to high-stakes corporate boardrooms in Seoul. Understanding where and how it is used in these different environments provides invaluable insight into Korean culture and communication styles. One of the most common places you will encounter this word is in Korean dramas and movies. Scriptwriters rely heavily on this interjection to build tension, reveal character traits, or navigate complex interpersonal conflicts on screen.

A: 나랑 결혼해 줄래? B: 글쎄요... 우리 아직 너무 이른 것 같아요.

In a romantic drama, a character might use it to coyly deflect a confession of love, buying time to process their feelings. In a corporate thriller, a cunning executive might use it to evade a direct question from a rival, maintaining a poker face while signaling that they are not easily intimidated.
Media and Entertainment
Used extensively in scripts to demonstrate hesitation, build dramatic tension, or show a character's reluctance to commit to an answer.

A: 범인이 누구라고 생각하십니까? B: 글쎄요, 아직 단서가 부족합니다.

Beyond the screen, you will hear this word constantly in everyday social interactions. Imagine you are shopping in a clothing store in Myeongdong. The salesperson asks if you like a particular jacket. If you don't like it but want to be polite, you wouldn't just say 'No, it's ugly.' Instead, you would use this word to soften the blow before politely declining. It acts as a social lubricant, ensuring that everyday transactions remain pleasant and frictionless.

A: 이 색깔 어떠세요? B: 글쎄요, 저한테는 좀 밝은 것 같네요.

Retail and Service
A polite way for customers to express dissatisfaction or indecision without offending the service provider.
In the workplace, this word is an essential tool for navigating office politics and hierarchical relationships. Korean corporate culture places a high value on respect for seniority and maintaining group harmony. If a junior employee is asked a question by a senior manager and they do not know the answer, replying with a blunt 'I don't know' (잘 모릅니다) can sometimes sound incompetent or overly direct. By prefacing their response with this hesitation marker, the junior employee demonstrates that they are taking the question seriously and are carefully considering their response, even if they ultimately have to admit a lack of knowledge.

A: 김 대리, 이번 마케팅 방안 어떻게 생각해? B: 글쎄요, 장단점이 뚜렷한 것 같습니다.

Corporate Environment
Crucial for polite disagreement with superiors or for managing expectations when unsure of business outcomes.
You will also hear it frequently in educational settings. A teacher might use it when a student asks a particularly challenging or out-of-the-box question, showing that the teacher is impressed by the question and needs a moment to formulate an accurate pedagogical response. Conversely, a student might use it when called upon to answer a question they are unsure about.

A: 선생님, 우주는 끝이 있나요? B: 글쎄요, 과학자들도 아직 연구 중인 문제란다.

In short, wherever there is spoken Korean, there is this interjection. It is a universal marker of human hesitation, beautifully adapted to fit the polite, high-context norms of Korean society.
While the interjection 글쎄요 is incredibly useful, it is also prone to misuse by Korean language learners who may not fully grasp its pragmatic boundaries. Because it translates easily to 'Well...' in English, learners often assume they can use it in every single situation where they would use 'Well' in their native language. This assumption leads to several common, albeit usually harmless, conversational missteps. The most frequent mistake is overusing the word as a generic filler. In English, people might say 'Well, I went to the store, and well, I bought some apples.' If a learner tries to replicate this by inserting the Korean equivalent into the middle of their sentences, it sounds highly unnatural and confusing to a native speaker.

A: 어제 뭐 했어요? B: (Incorrect usage) 저는 도서관에 갔고, 글쎄요, 책을 읽었어요.

This word is an interjection that belongs at the beginning of a response to a prompt or question; it is not a conjunction or a mid-sentence pause filler like '어...' (uh...) or '그...' (um...). Another significant mistake involves a mismatch of social register. The suffix '요' explicitly marks this word as polite (해요체). Learners sometimes forget to drop the '요' when speaking to close friends, younger siblings, or romantic partners.
Register Mismatch
Using the polite form with intimate friends creates an awkward sense of distance, making the speaker sound overly formal or even passive-aggressive.

A: (Close friend) 야, 오늘 피자 먹을래? B: (Awkward) 글쎄요. (Should be: 글쎄)

Conversely, a learner might learn the casual form '글쎄' and accidentally use it with a boss or a stranger, which is a severe breach of etiquette and sounds incredibly rude.

A: (Boss) 이 서류 다 검토했나? B: (Rude) 글쎄. (Should be: 글쎄요, 아직 덜 했습니다)

Tone and Intonation Errors
Delivering the word with a sharp, aggressive tone completely negates its polite, softening function.
A third common mistake is using it when a direct, factual answer is absolutely required and expected. While Korean culture values indirectness, there are times when hesitation is inappropriate. For example, if a doctor asks if you are allergic to penicillin, replying with a hesitant 'Well, I don't know' using this specific interjection might cause unnecessary confusion or concern. In situations requiring strict factual accuracy, it is better to use direct statements like '모르겠습니다' (I do not know) or '없습니다' (I do not have).

A: (Police officer) 당신의 이름이 무엇입니까? B: (Inappropriate) 글쎄요... 홍길동입니다.

Contextual Inappropriateness
Using a hesitation marker in emergency situations or formal interrogations where absolute clarity is demanded.
Finally, learners sometimes struggle with the follow-up. They might use the interjection perfectly but then follow it with a highly assertive, aggressive statement. '글쎄요, 당신이 완전히 틀렸습니다!' (Well, you are completely wrong!). This creates a jarring contrast. The interjection sets up a polite, soft response, but the subsequent clause destroys that politeness. It is vital to ensure that the tone of the entire sentence matches the gentle hesitation implied by the opening word.

A: 제 아이디어가 어때요? B: (Contradictory) 글쎄요, 진짜 최악이네요.

By avoiding these common pitfalls—mid-sentence usage, register mismatch, inappropriate contexts, and contradictory follow-ups—learners can utilize this expression effectively and naturally.
When expanding your Korean vocabulary, it is crucial to understand not just a single word, but the ecosystem of similar words that surround it. The interjection 글쎄요 does not exist in a vacuum; it shares semantic space with several other expressions that denote hesitation, uncertainty, or polite disagreement. Understanding the subtle differences between these words will allow you to choose the exact right expression for any given social situation, elevating your Korean from merely functional to highly nuanced and native-like. The most obvious relative is, of course, its casual counterpart, 글쎄. As discussed previously, the core meaning is identical, but the social application is entirely different. You use the casual form exclusively with people who are lower in the social hierarchy or with whom you share a very close, intimate bond.

A: 우리 내일 영화 볼까? B: 글쎄, 나 내일 바쁠 수도 있어.

Another highly related phrase is 잘 모르겠어요 (I don't really know). While 글쎄요 implies hesitation and can sometimes mean 'I know, but I don't want to say,' 잘 모르겠어요 is a more direct admission of a lack of knowledge.
잘 모르겠어요 (I don't know well)
A direct statement of ignorance or lack of understanding, less about hesitation and more about factual absence of knowledge.

A: 이 기계 어떻게 쓰는지 알아요? B: 아니요, 잘 모르겠어요.

You will often hear these two expressions used together in a single breath: '글쎄요, 잘 모르겠어요.' In this combination, the interjection acts as the initial polite buffer, and the verb phrase provides the actual answer. Another similar concept is expressed by the word 아마도 (maybe / perhaps). While our target word is an interjection used at the beginning of a response, 아마도 is an adverb that modifies the entire sentence to indicate probability.

A: 그 팀이 우승할까요? B: 아마도 우승할 것 같아요.

아마도 (Maybe)
An adverb indicating a moderate level of probability or guesswork, often used when the speaker has some idea but isn't certain.
For situations where you are trying to remember something, rather than hesitating to answer, you might use the filler word 그게... (well... / the thing is...). This is used when the information is on the tip of your tongue, or when you are about to explain a complicated or slightly uncomfortable situation. It is less about 'I don't know' and more about 'Give me a second to explain this.'

A: 숙제 왜 안 했어요? B: 그게... 어제 집에 늦게 가서요.

그게... (The thing is...)
Used to stall for time when preparing to give an excuse or a complicated explanation.
Finally, there is the simple filler sound 어... (uh...) or 음... (um...). These are universal human sounds of cognitive processing. They lack the specific polite and pragmatic weight of our target word, but they serve a similar basic function of filling silence. By mastering this spectrum of hesitation markers—from the simple 'um' to the polite 'well, I don't know' to the direct 'I don't know'—you gain immense control over the pacing and politeness of your Korean conversations.

A: 저녁 뭐 먹을래요? B: 음... 글쎄요, 아무거나 괜찮아요.

Choosing the right word from this similar group demonstrates a high level of cultural and linguistic fluency.

How Formal Is It?

難易度

知っておくべき文法

~을/ㄹ 것 같다 (Expressing probability/supposition)

~지도 모르다 (Expressing possibility/might)

~는데요/은데요 (Soft sentence endings for background information)

V-아/어 봐야 알다 (Will know after trying/seeing)

Polite register (해요체) vs. Casual register (해체)

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レベル別の例文

1

A: 이거 맛있어요? B: 글쎄요.

A: Is this delicious? B: Well, I don't know.

Used as a standalone polite response indicating uncertainty.

2

A: 내일 비가 와요? B: 글쎄요.

A: Is it raining tomorrow? B: Well, I'm not sure.

Used to answer a simple yes/no question when the answer is unknown.

3

A: 그 사람이 누구예요? B: 글쎄요.

A: Who is that person? B: Well, I don't know.

A polite way to say 'I don't know' to a WH-question.

4

A: 화장실이 어디예요? B: 글쎄요.

A: Where is the bathroom? B: Well, I don't know.

Can be used when you cannot help someone with directions.

5

A: 이거 얼마예요? B: 글쎄요.

A: How much is this? B: Well, I don't know.

Useful for deflecting questions you don't have the information for.

6

A: 언제 집에 가요? B: 글쎄요.

A: When are you going home? B: Well, I'm not sure.

Indicates indecision about future plans.

7

A: 한국어 어려워요? B: 글쎄요.

A: Is Korean difficult? B: Well, I don't know.

Used to avoid giving a direct opinion.

8

A: 이 책 재미있어요? B: 글쎄요.

A: Is this book interesting? B: Well, I don't know.

A polite, non-committal response.

1

글쎄요, 저는 잘 모르겠어요.

Well, I don't really know.

Often paired with '잘 모르겠어요' for emphasis.

2

글쎄요, 아마 안 올 거예요.

Well, maybe they won't come.

Followed by '아마' (maybe) and future tense for guessing.

3

글쎄요, 시간이 없어요.

Well, I don't have time.

Used to soften a rejection or excuse.

4

글쎄요, 그건 좀 비싸요.

Well, that is a bit expensive.

Softens a negative opinion about something.

5

글쎄요, 제가 할 수 있을까요?

Well, will I be able to do it?

Expressing self-doubt politely.

6

글쎄요, 아직 안 정했어요.

Well, I haven't decided yet.

Used when a decision is pending.

7

글쎄요, 다른 사람에게 물어보세요.

Well, please ask someone else.

Polite deflection to another source.

8

글쎄요, 저는 안 갈래요.

Well, I don't want to go.

Softens a direct refusal.

1

글쎄요, 제 생각에는 좀 다릅니다.

Well, in my opinion, it's a bit different.

Used to introduce a polite disagreement.

2

글쎄요, 이번 주말은 약속이 있어서 힘들 것 같아요.

Well, I think it will be difficult this weekend because I have plans.

Softening a rejection using '~을 것 같아요'.

3

글쎄요, 그 문제에 대해서는 더 생각해 봐야겠습니다.

Well, I will have to think more about that problem.

Buying time to consider a complex issue.

4

글쎄요, 확실하게 대답하기 어렵네요.

Well, it's difficult to answer with certainty.

Explicitly stating the difficulty of answering.

5

글쎄요, 그 소문이 사실일지도 모르죠.

Well, that rumor might be true.

Used with '~일지도 모르다' to express uncertain possibility.

6

글쎄요, 저라면 그렇게 안 할 텐데요.

Well, if it were me, I wouldn't do it like that.

Softening unsolicited advice or criticism.

7

글쎄요, 날씨가 좋으면 갈게요.

Well, I will go if the weather is good.

Introducing a conditional statement.

8

글쎄요, 처음 듣는 이야기인데요.

Well, that's the first time I'm hearing this story.

Expressing polite surprise or ignorance of a topic.

1

글쎄요, 그 제안은 장기적인 관점에서 리스크가 커 보입니다.

Well, from a long-term perspective, that proposal seems to have a high risk.

Used in formal contexts to soften professional critique.

2

글쎄요, 굳이 그렇게까지 할 필요가 있을까 싶네요.

Well, I wonder if there is really a need to go that far.

Expressing strong but indirect disagreement using '~까 싶다'.

3

글쎄요, 양측의 입장이 너무 팽팽해서 합의가 쉽지 않겠어요.

Well, both sides' positions are so tight that an agreement won't be easy.

Analyzing a complex situation with polite pessimism.

4

글쎄요, 통계 자료만으로는 정확한 원인을 규명하기 어렵습니다.

Well, it is difficult to determine the exact cause with just statistical data.

Academic or analytical hesitation.

5

글쎄요, 그건 개인의 가치관에 따라 다르게 해석될 수 있는 문제죠.

Well, that is an issue that can be interpreted differently depending on personal values.

Deflecting a subjective question objectively.

6

글쎄요, 당장 확답을 드리기는 곤란하고 내일까지 알려드리겠습니다.

Well, it is difficult to give you a definite answer right now, so I will let you know by tomorrow.

Professional stalling technique.

7

글쎄요, 아무리 생각해도 그 방법은 최선이 아닌 것 같습니다.

Well, no matter how much I think about it, that method doesn't seem to be the best.

Strong disagreement softened by the interjection and '~것 같다'.

8

글쎄요, 시대가 변했으니 그런 방식은 더 이상 통하지 않겠죠.

Well, times have changed, so that method probably won't work anymore.

Introducing a societal observation.

1

글쎄요, 그 사안에 대해 섣불리 단정 짓는 것은 위험한 발상이라고 사료됩니다.

Well, I consider it a dangerous idea to hastily jump to conclusions about that matter.

Highly formal and academic phrasing softened by the initial interjection.

2

글쎄요, 표면적인 현상 이면에 숨겨진 구조적 모순을 간과해서는 안 될 것입니다.

Well, we must not overlook the structural contradictions hidden behind the superficial phenomenon.

Used to introduce a deep, analytical counter-point.

3

글쎄요, 도의적인 책임은 면하기 어렵겠으나 법적 처벌까지 갈 사안인지는 의문입니다.

Well, it will be hard to avoid moral responsibility, but it is questionable whether it is a matter that will go as far as legal punishment.

Balancing two complex viewpoints.

4

글쎄요, 그분의 의도가 순수했다고 하더라도 결과적으로 초래된 파장을 무시할 순 없죠.

Well, even if their intentions were pure, we cannot ignore the repercussions that were consequently caused.

Conceding a point while maintaining a critical stance.

5

글쎄요, 작가의 의도적 모호성인지 아니면 단순한 서사적 결함인지 판단하기 모호하네요.

Well, it is ambiguous to judge whether it is the author's intentional ambiguity or a simple narrative flaw.

Expressing high-level analytical uncertainty.

6

글쎄요, 현행 제도의 맹점을 교묘하게 파고든 사례라 규제 방안 마련이 시급해 보입니다.

Well, it is a case that cleverly exploited the blind spots of the current system, so preparing regulatory measures seems urgent.

Transitioning from observation to policy recommendation.

7

글쎄요, 대중의 알 권리와 개인의 사생활 보호 사이에서 아슬아슬한 줄타기를 하는 격이죠.

Well, it is like walking a tightrope between the public's right to know and the protection of individual privacy.

Using metaphor to describe a complex dilemma.

8

글쎄요, 역사적 선례를 비추어 볼 때 낙관적인 전망만을 내놓기는 조심스럽습니다.

Well, in light of historical precedents, I am cautious about offering only an optimistic outlook.

Professional caution and historical perspective.

1

글쎄요, 인간 본연의 이기심을 제도적으로 완벽히 통제할 수 있다는 발상 자체가 어불성설 아닐까요.

Well, isn't the very idea that innate human selfishness can be perfectly controlled institutionally absurd?

Rhetorical question challenging a fundamental premise.

2

글쎄요, 미학적 성취와 대중적 영합 사이의 간극을 메우려는 시도 자체는 가상하나 그 결과물은 참담하군요.

Well, the attempt itself to bridge the gap between aesthetic achievement and popular pandering is commendable, but the result is disastrous.

Devastating critique delivered with extreme linguistic sophistication.

3

글쎄요, 작금의 사태를 단순히 세대 갈등의 프레임으로만 재단하는 것은 문제의 본질을 호도하는 처사입니다.

Well, judging the current situation simply through the frame of generational conflict is an act that misleads the essence of the problem.

Deconstructing a societal narrative.

4

글쎄요, 자본의 논리가 지배하는 현대 사회에서 순수한 의미의 이타주의가 발현될 수 있는 공간이 과연 남아있을지 의문이네요.

Well, I wonder if there is truly any space left for altruism in its pure sense to manifest in a modern society dominated by the logic of capital.

Profound philosophical skepticism.

5

글쎄요, 언어의 한계가 곧 세계의 한계라는 비트겐슈타인의 명제를 빌리지 않더라도, 이 현상을 설명할 적확한 어휘를 찾기란 요원해 보입니다.

Well, even without borrowing Wittgenstein's proposition that the limits of language are the limits of the world, finding the exact vocabulary to explain this phenomenon seems a long way off.

Referencing complex philosophy to express linguistic difficulty.

6

글쎄요, 맹목적인 기술 낙관주의가 초래할 디스토피아적 미래에 대한 일말의 경각심조차 부재하다는 사실이 못내 씁쓸합니다.

Well, the fact that there is not even a hint of awareness about the dystopian future that blind technological optimism will bring about is bitterly disappointing.

Expressing complex emotional states regarding societal trends.

7

글쎄요, 권력의 속성상 한번 쥐어진 칼자루를 스스로 내려놓기를 기대하는 것은 연목구어에 불과하겠지요.

Well, given the nature of power, expecting them to voluntarily lay down the sword they once grasped would be nothing but seeking fish in a tree.

Combining the interjection with a four-character idiom (사자성어).

8

글쎄요, 우주의 광활함 앞에서 인간 존재의 미약함을 논하는 것조차 때로는 부질없는 지적 유희로 느껴질 때가 있습니다.

Well, sometimes even discussing the insignificance of human existence in the face of the vastness of the universe feels like a futile intellectual game.

Poetic and existential reflection.

よく使う組み合わせ

글쎄요 잘 모르겠어요
글쎄요 아마도
글쎄요 제 생각에는
글쎄요 아직
글쎄요 좀
글쎄요 그건
글쎄요 어떻게
글쎄요 글쎄
글쎄요 한번
글쎄요 아마

よく使うフレーズ

글쎄요, 잘 모르겠어요. (Well, I don't really know.)
글쎄요, 생각해 볼게요. (Well, I'll think about it.)
글쎄요, 아마 그럴 거예요. (Well, probably so.)
글쎄요, 확실하지 않아요. (Well, I'm not sure.)
글쎄요, 좀 어려울 것 같아요. (Well, I think it will be a bit difficult.)
글쎄요, 그건 좀... (Well, that is a bit...)
글쎄요, 두고 봐야죠. (Well, we'll have to wait and see.)
글쎄요, 제 생각은 다릅니다. (Well, my opinion is different.)
글쎄요, 아직 안 정했어요. (Well, I haven't decided yet.)
글쎄요, 사람마다 다르겠죠. (Well, it probably depends on the person.)

よく混同される語

글쎄요 vs 그러게요 (Geureogeyo) - This means 'I know, right?' or 'I agree'. It sounds similar but is used for agreement, not hesitation.

글쎄요 vs 글쎄 (Geulsse) - The casual form. Confusing the two leads to politeness errors.

글쎄요 vs 그게 (Geuge) - Means 'the thing is...'. Used when you know the answer but it's hard to explain, rather than when you don't know.

慣用句と表現

"글쎄요 (Used as a standalone idiom for evasion)"
"글쎄올시다 (Archaic/humorous formal version)"
"글쎄 말이야 (I know, right? / Tell me about it - casual agreement)"
"글쎄 말입니다 (Formal version of 'I know, right?')"
"글쎄다 (Casual, slightly older generation usage)"
"글쎄요 어떨지 (Well, I wonder how it will be)"
"글쎄요 두고 봐야 알겠죠 (Well, we'll know when we see it)"
"글쎄요 장담할 수 없네요 (Well, I can't guarantee it)"
"글쎄요 뭐라 말씀드려야 할지 (Well, I don't know what to say)"
"글쎄요 저도 참 (Well, I am also...)"

間違えやすい

글쎄요 vs

글쎄요 vs

글쎄요 vs

글쎄요 vs

글쎄요 vs

文型パターン

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使い方

nuance

It carries a nuance of 'I hear your question, I am thinking about it, but I cannot give you a definitive positive answer right now.'

formality

Polite (해요체). Appropriate for most daily interactions with adults, colleagues, and strangers.

frequency

Extremely high in spoken Korean. Rare in formal written Korean.

よくある間違い
  • Using '글쎄요' in the middle of a sentence like the English word 'um' or 'uh'.
  • Using the polite form '글쎄요' with close friends instead of the casual '글쎄'.
  • Using '글쎄' (casual) with a boss or stranger, which is highly disrespectful.
  • Answering an emergency or highly factual question (e.g., 'What is your name?') with '글쎄요'.
  • Pronouncing it quickly and sharply, which makes it sound aggressive rather than hesitant.

ヒント

Elongate for Politeness

When using 글쎄요, try to slightly elongate the final '요' (yo) sound. A quick, sharp '글쎄요!' can sound dismissive or annoyed. A drawn-out '글쎄요...' sounds much more thoughtful and polite. It shows the listener that you are genuinely considering their words. Practice saying it slowly in front of a mirror.

Always at the Beginning

Remember that 글쎄요 is an interjection. It must be placed at the very beginning of your sentence. Never try to use it as a conjunction to join two thoughts together. It serves as the gateway to your response, setting the tone for whatever follows.

The Soft Rejection

Use 글쎄요 to soften a 'no'. If someone invites you out and you don't want to go, don't just say '아니요, 안 가요' (No, I'm not going). Start with '글쎄요, 오늘은 좀 피곤해서요' (Well, I'm a bit tired today). It preserves the relationship and sounds much more natural.

Workplace Caution

While polite, be careful using it too much with your boss. If asked a direct question about your work progress, a hesitant '글쎄요' makes you look incompetent. Use it for matters of opinion, not matters of fact regarding your responsibilities. For facts, use direct answers.

Pair with '잘 모르겠어요'

If you truly have no idea about the answer to a question, the best phrase to memorize is the combination: '글쎄요, 잘 모르겠어요' (Well, I don't really know). This is the standard, foolproof way to admit ignorance politely in Korean.

Understanding Nunchi

Using this word correctly is a great way to practice 'Nunchi' (social intelligence). It shows you understand that bluntness is not always valued in Korea. By hesitating, you are actively participating in the cultural norm of maintaining harmony and saving face.

Listen to Dramas

Pay close attention to Korean dramas. You will hear characters use 글쎄요 constantly. Notice the situations where they use it. Are they lying? Are they trying to be polite? Are they genuinely confused? Mimicking actors is a great way to learn the correct intonation.

Drop the '요' for Friends

Don't forget to adjust your register! If you are talking to a close friend of the same age or younger, you must drop the '요' and just say '글쎄'. Using '글쎄요' with a best friend sounds weirdly formal and creates an unnatural distance between you.

The 'I Disagree' Buffer

You can use it to disagree politely. If someone says 'This movie is the best!', and you hated it, start your reply with '글쎄요, 저는...' (Well, I...). It immediately signals to the listener that a contrasting opinion is coming, softening the impact of the disagreement.

Texting vs. Essays

It is perfectly fine to use 글쎄요 in text messages (often written as 글쎄요 ㅎㅎ or 글쎄요 ㅠㅠ). However, completely avoid it in formal writing, essays, or professional emails. It is a spoken word that looks very unprofessional when written in formal documents.

暗記しよう

記憶術

Imagine a girl named 'Gull' sailing on the 'Sea' with a 'Yo-yo'. You ask her where she is going. She hesitates, plays with her yo-yo, and says 'Gull-sea-yo... I don't know.'

語源

Native Korean

文化的な背景

Often accompanied by a slight tilt of the head, avoiding direct eye contact momentarily, or a soft intake of breath.

The '요' makes it '해요체' (polite/informal formal). Drop the '요' for '해체' (casual) with close friends.

Younger generations might use it more quickly as a simple filler, while older generations might draw it out longer to emphasize deep thought.

実生活で練習する

実際の使用場面

会話のきっかけ

"A: 이번 주말에 날씨가 좋을까요? B: 글쎄요, 일기예보를 봐야겠네요."

"A: 그 영화 재미있대요? B: 글쎄요, 사람마다 평가가 다르더라고요."

"A: 이 옷 저한테 어울려요? B: 글쎄요, 다른 색깔도 한번 입어보세요."

"A: 김 대리님 오늘 출근하셨나요? B: 글쎄요, 아직 못 뵌 것 같습니다."

"A: 한국어 공부하는 거 힘들지 않아요? B: 글쎄요, 힘들 때도 있지만 재미있어요."

日記のテーマ

Describe a situation recently where you had to say '글쎄요' because you genuinely didn't know the answer.

Write a short dialogue where someone uses '글쎄요' to politely reject a date.

Explain in your own words why Korean culture values words like '글쎄요' over a direct 'no'.

Think of a time you used '글쎄요' incorrectly. What happened?

Write a paragraph about a difficult decision you are facing, starting with '글쎄요...'

よくある質問

10 問

Yes, but use it sparingly. If asked a very difficult hypothetical question, you can start with '글쎄요, 어려운 질문이네요...' (Well, that's a difficult question...) to buy a few seconds of thinking time. However, do not use it for factual questions about your resume. Overusing it will make you seem indecisive or unprepared. It is better to use more formal stalling phrases if possible. Always follow it up with a strong, thoughtful answer.

'글쎄요' is an interjection meaning 'Well...' or 'Let me see...', indicating hesitation or buying time. '잘 모르겠어요' is a full verb phrase meaning 'I don't know well'. You can use them together: '글쎄요, 잘 모르겠어요' (Well, I don't really know). '글쎄요' is more about the pragmatic act of hesitating, while '잘 모르겠어요' is a direct statement of fact about your lack of knowledge.

It depends on the context and intonation. If your boss asks if you finished a critical report, saying '글쎄요' is rude because it sounds evasive. You should give a direct answer. However, if your boss asks for your opinion on a complex new market trend, saying '글쎄요, 장단점이 있는 것 같습니다' (Well, it seems there are pros and cons) is perfectly polite and appropriate.

No. '글쎄요' is strictly a feature of spoken language and informal writing (like text messages or casual blogs). In a formal essay, academic paper, or business report, you should use formal written expressions to convey uncertainty or differing opinions, such as '단정하기 어렵다' (it is difficult to conclude) or '이견의 여지가 있다' (there is room for differing opinions).

'글쎄 말이에요' (or casual '글쎄 말이야') is an idiom that means 'I know, right?' or 'Tell me about it!'. Despite containing the word '글쎄', it is not used for hesitation. It is used to strongly agree with someone's complaint or observation. For example, if someone says 'The weather is so crazy lately,' you reply '글쎄 말이에요!' to show enthusiastic agreement.

The 'ㅆ' (ss) is a tense consonant. To pronounce it, you need to tense your vocal cords and release the air more sharply than a regular 'ㅅ' (s). It sounds a bit like the 's' in the English word 'sea', but with more pressure behind it. The pitch of the syllable '쎄' is also usually slightly higher than the surrounding syllables.

Not exactly. '글쎄요' means 'Well...' or 'I'm not sure'. If you want to say 'maybe', you should use the word '아마도' (amado). However, they are often used together. You can say '글쎄요, 아마도 그럴 거예요' (Well, maybe it is so). The '글쎄요' provides the hesitation, and the '아마도' provides the meaning of probability.

Body language is important in Korean. When saying '글쎄요', native speakers often tilt their head slightly to one side. They might also look up or away momentarily to show they are thinking. A slight, polite smile or a slightly puzzled expression often accompanies it. Avoid aggressive or closed-off body language, as the word is meant to be soft and polite.

There isn't a direct one-to-one formal equivalent that functions exactly the same way as an interjection. In highly formal situations (안녕하십니까 level), people tend to avoid hesitation markers altogether or use full sentences to express thought, such as '그 부분에 대해서는 확인이 필요할 것 같습니다' (I think we need to verify that part). There is an archaic/humorous form '글쎄올시다', but it is rarely used seriously.

Absolutely. This is one of its primary functions. If someone asks you a nosy question, like 'How much money do you make?', you can reply with a drawn-out '글쎄요...' and change the subject. It is a polite way of saying 'I don't want to answer that' without actually telling them to mind their own business.

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