Meaning
A polite and formal way to say 'I understand'.
Cultural Background
It is the most common phrase heard in offices. It signals you are a good employee. Waiters and clerks use this to show they are listening to your order. Students use this to show respect to teachers.
Pronunciation
Don't pronounce the 'b' in '습니다'. It's silent.
Body Language
Nod slightly while saying it to show sincerity.
Meaning
A polite and formal way to say 'I understand'.
Pronunciation
Don't pronounce the 'b' in '습니다'. It's silent.
Body Language
Nod slightly while saying it to show sincerity.
Test Yourself
Which is appropriate for a boss?
What do you say to your boss?
It is the formal version.
Fill in the blank.
네, ____.
Matches the formal '네'.
Match the register.
Who do you say '알겠어' to?
Casual register.
Complete the dialogue.
Boss: 'Finish this.' You: '____.'
Formal response.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
4 exercisesWhat do you say to your boss?
It is the formal version.
네, ____.
Matches the formal '네'.
Who do you say '알겠어' to?
Casual register.
Boss: 'Finish this.' You: '____.'
Formal response.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
8 questionsNo, it sounds very cold.
Yes, very.
No, it means I understand/will do.
Say '잘 모르겠습니다'.
Rarely, usually '네' is used.
It's a grammatical ending, but the 'b' is silent.
Extremely common.
Yes, it implies agreement.
Related Phrases
알았어요
similarI understood
네
builds onYes
알겠어
contrastI get it
