Meaning
A polite invitation for someone to proceed ahead.
Cultural Background
It is common to gesture with an open hand when saying this. Similar etiquette exists, often accompanied by a deeper bow. Often accompanied by a smile and a nod.
Hand Gesture
Always gesture with an open hand when saying this to make it more natural.
Nunchi
Using this phrase shows you have good 'nunchi' (social awareness).
Meaning
A polite invitation for someone to proceed ahead.
Hand Gesture
Always gesture with an open hand when saying this to make it more natural.
Nunchi
Using this phrase shows you have good 'nunchi' (social awareness).
Test Yourself
Which is the most polite way to tell a stranger to go ahead?
Choose the best option:
It is the standard polite form for daily interactions.
Complete the sentence.
엘리베이터에서 ____.
Use the polite form in public spaces.
Respond to someone letting you go first.
Person: '먼저 가세요.' You: '____.'
Polite acknowledgment is expected.
Match the situation to the phrase.
You are at a door with your boss.
With a boss, use the most formal version.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
4 exercisesChoose the best option:
It is the standard polite form for daily interactions.
엘리베이터에서 ____.
Use the polite form in public spaces.
Person: '먼저 가세요.' You: '____.'
Polite acknowledgment is expected.
You are at a door with your boss.
With a boss, use the most formal version.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
6 questionsYes, it is very polite.
It can sound like you are being sarcastic.
Just say '아니에요, 먼저 가세요' again.
No, it works for any turn-based situation.
The phrase remains the same.
Rarely, it is mostly a spoken phrase.
Related Phrases
먼저 하세요
similarPlease do it first
먼저 드세요
similarPlease eat first
천천히 하세요
contrastTake your time
