Meaning
A very casual and often bewildered way to ask 'what?', expressing confusion or surprise.
Cultural Background
The use of '뭐?' is a marker of 'banmal' (informal speech). It is a key indicator of social distance. While '뭐' is understood, the usage of slang is generally more restricted in public life. Korean-Americans often use '뭐?' as a bridge between Korean and English, sometimes even mixing it into English sentences. You will hear '뭐?' in almost every K-drama when a character is shocked by a plot twist.
Intonation is key
A rising tone makes it a question. A flat tone makes it a statement of annoyance.
Social Danger
Never use this with someone older than you unless you are very close friends.
Meaning
A very casual and often bewildered way to ask 'what?', expressing confusion or surprise.
Intonation is key
A rising tone makes it a question. A flat tone makes it a statement of annoyance.
Social Danger
Never use this with someone older than you unless you are very close friends.
Test Yourself
Which is appropriate to say to your boss?
Your boss says something you didn't hear. What do you say?
'네?' is the polite way to ask for repetition.
Fill in the blank for a casual conversation.
Friend: '나 내일 결혼해.' You: '____? 진짜?'
'뭐' is the correct slang for surprise.
Match the situation to the correct response.
You are at a loud party and didn't hear your friend.
In a casual, loud setting, '뭐?' is the most natural.
🎉 Score: /3
Visual Learning Aids
When to use '뭐?'
Appropriate
- • Friends
- • Siblings
- • Close colleagues
Inappropriate
- • Boss
- • Professor
- • Strangers
Practice Bank
3 exercisesYour boss says something you didn't hear. What do you say?
'네?' is the polite way to ask for repetition.
Friend: '나 내일 결혼해.' You: '____? 진짜?'
'뭐' is the correct slang for surprise.
You are at a loud party and didn't hear your friend.
In a casual, loud setting, '뭐?' is the most natural.
🎉 Score: /3
Frequently Asked Questions
2 questionsNo, never. Use formal language in emails.
It depends on who you are talking to. With friends, it's fine. With strangers, it's rude.
Related Phrases
뭐라고?
similarWhat did you say?
뭐야?
similarWhat is it?
뭔데?
similarWhat is it (that you're hiding)?
무슨 소리야?
similarWhat are you talking about?
