Meaning
Used to describe something or someone as beautiful or attractive.
Cultural Background
The phrase '말을 예쁘게 하다' (to speak prettily) is a significant cultural concept. It doesn't mean the voice is high-pitched, but that the person chooses kind, respectful, and positive words. It is considered a sign of high emotional intelligence and good upbringing. Fans often use the term '얼굴 천재' (face genius) alongside '예뻐요' to describe idols. '예뻐요' is the most common comment on V-Live or Instagram posts, often accompanied by heart emojis. Historically, beauty was often associated with the 'Moon Jar' (Dalhangari) aesthetics—simple, white, and modest. While '예뻐요' is modern, the appreciation for 'pretty' things has shifted from modesty to the vibrant 'K-style' we see today. On Korean social media, you'll see '예쁘다' shortened to '예쁨' or even just 'ㅇㅃ' in very casual texting. There is a trend called '인생샷' (life shot), which is a 'pretty' photo that is the best of your life.
Use '정말' or '진짜'
Adding '정말' (really) or '진짜' (truly) before '예뻐요' makes the compliment feel much more sincere.
Watch the 'ㅡ' irregular
Remember it's '예뻐요', not '예쁘아요'. The 'eu' drops!
Meaning
Used to describe something or someone as beautiful or attractive.
Use '정말' or '진짜'
Adding '정말' (really) or '진짜' (truly) before '예뻐요' makes the compliment feel much more sincere.
Watch the 'ㅡ' irregular
Remember it's '예뻐요', not '예쁘아요'. The 'eu' drops!
Complimenting Elders
When complimenting an elder's appearance, '고우세요' (You are lovely/fine) is often more respectful than '예뻐요'.
The '이뻐' variant
Don't be surprised if you hear '이뻐요'. It's not a mistake; it's just how many people naturally speak.
Test Yourself
Choose the correct form to complete the sentence: '이 꽃이 정말 _______.'
이 꽃이 정말 _______.
The sentence needs a polite present tense verb/adjective to end the thought.
Change '예쁘다' to describe the noun '옷' (clothes).
_______ 옷을 샀어요. (I bought pretty clothes.)
To modify a noun, the adjective root 예쁘- takes the -ㄴ ending.
Which situation is MOST appropriate for '예뻐요'?
Which situation is MOST appropriate for '예뻐요'?
Earrings are a classic 'pretty' object for daily compliments.
Complete the dialogue.
가: 어제 본 그 영화 어땠어요? 나: 영상이 너무 _______.
Since the question asks about a past event ('어제'), the answer should be in the past tense.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
예쁘다 vs 아름답다
Practice Bank
4 exercises이 꽃이 정말 _______.
The sentence needs a polite present tense verb/adjective to end the thought.
_______ 옷을 샀어요. (I bought pretty clothes.)
To modify a noun, the adjective root 예쁘- takes the -ㄴ ending.
Which situation is MOST appropriate for '예뻐요'?
Earrings are a classic 'pretty' object for daily compliments.
가: 어제 본 그 영화 어땠어요? 나: 영상이 너무 _______.
Since the question asks about a past event ('어제'), the answer should be in the past tense.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
12 questionsYes, but it implies he has 'pretty' or delicate features. For a standard 'handsome' compliment, use '잘생겼어요.'
'예뻐요' is the standard spelling. '이뻐요' is a very common spoken variation. Both are understood and widely used.
Yes, it might be. In a very formal setting, use '예쁩니다' or, better yet, compliment their work rather than their appearance.
Use the past tense: '예뻤어요' (Yeppeosseoyo).
Absolutely! '집이 예뻐요' is a very common way to compliment someone's home.
No. Unlike Japanese 'Kirei,' Korean '예뻐요' only refers to beauty/kindness, not cleanliness.
It means to speak in a kind, thoughtful, and polite manner.
Use the noun-modifying form: '예쁜 소녀' (Yeppeun sonyeo).
It's a bit forward. It's better to use it for objects they have (like a bag) rather than their face if you don't know them.
'못생겼어요' (to be ugly), but be careful as this is very rude!
Yes, if the melody or lyrics are 'pretty' or sweet. '노래가 예뻐요.'
Because of the 'ㅡ' irregular rule where the 'eu' vowel drops when meeting 'eo'.
Related Phrases
아름답다
similarTo be beautiful
귀엽다
similarTo be cute
잘생겼다
contrastTo be handsome
미인
specialized formA beauty / beautiful woman
곱다
similarTo be lovely/fine
