Meaning
Used to express a lack of knowledge or understanding.
Cultural Background
Admitting ignorance is often seen as a sign of honesty, but it should be done with a polite tone to avoid appearing dismissive. In a professional setting, just saying 'I don't know' can be seen as lazy. Often, people add 'I will check and let you know' (알아보고 말씀드리겠습니다). Younger people use '몰라요' or '모르겠어요' with elders, but elders might use '몰라' with children.
Add '잘'
Adding '잘' (well) makes your 'I don't know' sound much more natural and polite.
Don't be too direct
In Korea, being too direct can be rude. '모르겠어요' is a perfect way to be indirect.
Meaning
Used to express a lack of knowledge or understanding.
Add '잘'
Adding '잘' (well) makes your 'I don't know' sound much more natural and polite.
Don't be too direct
In Korea, being too direct can be rude. '모르겠어요' is a perfect way to be indirect.
Test Yourself
Which is the most polite way to say 'I don't know' to your teacher?
Choose the best option:
모르겠어요 is the polite form suitable for teachers.
Fill in the blank for a casual conversation.
친구: 이거 알아? 나: 아니, ____.
With a friend, the informal '몰라' is appropriate.
Complete the response.
A: 그 식당이 어디예요? B: ____.
This is the most natural way to admit you don't know a location.
Match the register to the situation.
Formal meeting with a CEO.
In a formal business setting, the most polite form is required.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
4 exercisesChoose the best option:
모르겠어요 is the polite form suitable for teachers.
친구: 이거 알아? 나: 아니, ____.
With a friend, the informal '몰라' is appropriate.
A: 그 식당이 어디예요? B: ____.
This is the most natural way to admit you don't know a location.
Formal meeting with a CEO.
In a formal business setting, the most polite form is required.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
6 questionsYes, but use '모르겠습니다' for maximum formality.
No, it's the standard polite way to admit ignorance.
It's a politeness marker that softens the statement.
Use '이해가 안 돼요' instead.
Only with close friends.
Yes, it's perfectly fine in polite emails.
Related Phrases
잘 모르겠어요
specialized formI'm not really sure
몰라요
similarI don't know
모르겠습니다
specialized formI do not know
