This page in your language

فارسی

العربية

Deutsch

Español

Français

日本語

한국어

Português

中文

हिन्दी

A2 noun #3,000 most common 10 min read

거절

geojeol Top 3,000

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips 거절 in 30 Seconds

Explanation 거절 in your Level:

At the A1 level, you only need to know that 거절 means 'no' or 'refusal.' You might not use the word itself often, but you will see it on buttons or in simple sentences. Instead of saying '거절합니다,' you might say '아니요' (No) or '싫어요' (I don't like it/I don't want to). However, learning 거절 early helps you understand when someone is talking about the act of saying no. For example, if a teacher says '거절했어요,' you know someone said no to something. It's a foundational building block for understanding social interactions in Korea. Focus on recognizing the word when you see it on a phone screen (the red button to decline a call). At this stage, just remember: 거절 = No/Refusal.

At the A2 level, you should start using 거절 in simple sentences with the verb 하다 (to do). You should be able to say things like '부탁을 거절했어요' (I refused the favor) or '제안을 거절할 거예요' (I will refuse the proposal). This level is about basic social navigation. You should also recognize the passive form 거절당하다 (to be refused) in simple contexts, like failing to get a date or a job. You are moving beyond simple 'yes/no' and starting to describe the *actions* of refusing and being refused. Understanding the difference between '거절' and '사양' (polite declining) starts to become useful here, though '거절' is your safe, go-to word for most situations.

At the B1 level, you should be comfortable using 거절 with various adverbs and in more complex sentence structures. You can describe *how* someone refused: '정중하게 거절했다' (politely refused) or '단호하게 거절했다' (firmly refused). You should also be able to use the noun 거절 as a subject or a modifier, such as '거절의 이유' (reason for refusal). At this stage, you understand the social pressure involved in refusal in Korean culture and can use the word to discuss social dilemmas. You can also distinguish between 거절하다 (active) and 거절되다 (passive/neutral) versus 거절당하다 (passive/emotional).

At the B2 level, you can use 거절 in professional and academic contexts. You understand its role in business negotiations, legal refusals, and diplomatic discourse. You can use related terms like 거부 (rejection/denial) and 반려 (returning/rejection of documents) accurately. You can participate in discussions about '거절의 기술' (the art of refusal) and explain the cultural nuances of why a 'no' might be delivered indirectly. Your vocabulary includes idioms like '일언지하에 거절하다' (to refuse instantly/at once). You can write a formal email or letter of refusal using appropriate honorifics and softening expressions.

At the C1 level, you have a deep, nuanced understanding of 거절. You can use it to discuss abstract concepts like 'social rejection' or 'psychological refusal.' You are aware of the subtle differences between 거절 and more literary or specialized terms like 박절 (cold-hearted refusal). You can analyze the use of 거절 in literature or news editorials to detect the tone and intent of the speaker. You can handle high-pressure situations where you must refuse a superior's request using sophisticated linguistic strategies to maintain 'Gibun' (harmony) while being clear about your 거절.

At the C2 level, your mastery of 거절 is native-like. You can use the word in legal, philosophical, and highly formal settings with total precision. You understand the historical evolution of the word and its Hanja roots. You can use 거절 in complex wordplay or rhetorical devices. You are capable of mediating between parties where a 거절 has caused a conflict, using your deep cultural and linguistic knowledge to resolve the issue. You can write academic papers on the linguistics of refusal in the Korean language, comparing it with other languages and cultures. The word is no longer just a vocabulary item but a tool for sophisticated social and intellectual expression.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

거절 in 30 Seconds

거절 is the standard Korean noun for 'refusal' or 'rejection' of requests, offers, or invitations.
It is commonly used as a verb by adding '하다' (거절하다) or in the passive form '당하다' (거절당하다).
In Korean culture, 거절 is often delivered politely with excuses to avoid offending the other person's feelings.
It differs from '사양' (polite decline) and '거부' (strong rejection/denial) based on the context and intensity.

The Korean word 거절 (geojeol) is a noun that translates to 'refusal,' 'rejection,' or 'declining.' In the intricate web of Korean social dynamics, understanding how to express and receive a 'no' is vital. At its core, 거절 represents the act of not accepting a request, a proposal, an invitation, or a gift. It is derived from the Hanja (Chinese characters) 拒 (geo), meaning to resist or ward off, and 絶 (jeol), meaning to cut off or discontinue. Together, they paint a picture of 'cutting off' a path or a request. While the English word 'rejection' can sometimes feel harsh or personal, 거절 is a broader term used in everything from a simple 'no thank you' to a formal business rejection.

Etymological Root: The Hanja 拒 (거) implies a physical or metaphorical barrier, while 絶 (절) emphasizes the finality of the act. In modern Korean, this suggests a clear boundary being set.

그는 나의 제안을 단호하게 거절했다. (He flatly refused my proposal.)

Koreans often find direct 거절 to be socially taxing because of the emphasis on 'Chem-myeon' (saving face) and 'Gibun' (the feelings/mood of others). Therefore, while the word itself is common, the act it describes is often wrapped in layers of apology or excuse. You will encounter this word in news reports regarding diplomatic rejections, in dramas when a character's romantic confession is turned down, and in daily life when someone cannot fulfill a favor.

Social Nuance: In Korean culture, a 'soft refusal' is often preferred over a 'hard refusal.' However, when a clear 'no' is necessary, 거절 is the standard term to describe that boundary-setting event.

부탁을 거절하는 것은 쉽지 않아요. (Refusing a favor is not easy.)

입학 거절 통보를 받았습니다. (I received a notification of admission refusal/rejection.)

Formal vs. Informal: While 거절 is a standard noun, in very formal settings like business contracts, you might see 거부 (rejection/denial), which carries a stronger, more legalistic weight. In casual food situations, 사양 (declining politely) is more common.

그녀는 선물을 정중하게 거절했다. (She politely refused the gift.)

면접에서 거절당할까 봐 걱정돼요. (I'm worried I might be rejected at the interview.)

Understanding 거절 is not just about learning a word; it is about navigating the delicate balance of Korean interpersonal relationships (인간관계). Whether you are refusing a second helping of kimchi or a billion-won business deal, this word provides the linguistic foundation for saying 'no' while maintaining social order. In summary, 거절 is the standard, versatile noun for refusal that every A2 learner should master to describe boundaries and outcomes in both professional and personal spheres.

Using 거절 correctly involves understanding its role as a noun and how it transforms into a verb. The most common pattern is 거절(을) 하다, which means 'to do a refusal' or simply 'to refuse.' Because it is a transitive action, it almost always takes an object—the thing being refused. For example, if you refuse a request, 'request' (부탁) becomes the object of the refusal.

The Active Voice: [Object] + 을/를 + 거절하다. This is the standard way to say someone refused something. Example: '제안을 거절했어요' (I refused the proposal).

친구의 초대를 거절하기가 미안해요. (I feel bad about refusing my friend's invitation.)

Another critical structure is the passive form, 거절(을) 당하다. This is used when you are the one whose request was turned down. In English, we say 'I was rejected,' but in Korean, you 'suffer/receive a rejection.' This is very common in dating contexts or job applications.

The Passive Voice: [Subject] + 이/가 + 거절당하다. Example: '요청이 거절당했어요' (The request was rejected).

비자 발급이 거절되었습니다. (The visa issuance was refused.)

Adverbs often accompany 거절 to describe the manner of the refusal. '단호하게' (resolutely/flatly), '정중하게' (politely), and '어쩔 수 없이' (unavoidably) are frequent partners. These adverbs help soften or sharpen the blow of the 'no.'

Common Adverbs: 1. 단호하게 거절하다 (To refuse flatly)
2. 부드럽게 거절하다 (To refuse gently)
3. 딱 잘라 거절하다 (To refuse point-blank)

선생님은 제 질문을 딱 잘라 거절하셨어요. (The teacher refused my question point-blank.)

그는 거절의 표시로 고개를 저었다. (He shook his head as a sign of refusal.)

아무리 바빠도 부모님의 요청은 거절할 수 없어요. (No matter how busy I am, I cannot refuse my parents' request.)

In more complex sentences, 거절 can be the subject of a sentence, as in '거절은 언제나 아프다' (Rejection always hurts). It can also be used as a modifier: '거절 편지' (a rejection letter). By practicing these different structures—active, passive, and modified—you can accurately describe various social scenarios where boundaries are set. Remember that '거절' is a noun; to use it as an action, you must attach '하다' or use it in a phrase that implies action.

You will encounter 거절 in a variety of real-world contexts, ranging from high-stakes business meetings to emotional drama scenes. In the workplace, 거절 is used when a proposal (제안) is not accepted or when a budget request is denied. You might hear a manager say, '이번 프로젝트 제안은 거절되었습니다' (This project proposal was rejected). It is a professional and clear way to communicate a negative outcome without being overly aggressive.

The Drama Scene: In K-dramas, '거절' is a plot driver. A character confesses their love (고백), and the other character must deliver a '거절.' The subsequent dialogue often revolves around why the '거절' happened and the emotional fallout.

그는 그녀의 고백을 정중히 거절했다. (He politely refused her confession.)

In the service industry, you might hear this word in phrases like '카드 결제가 거절되었습니다' (The card payment was declined/refused). Here, 거절 acts as a technical term for a system failing to authorize a transaction. Similarly, when applying for visas or official documents, the term '거절' will appear on official notifications if the application is unsuccessful.

스팸 전화라서 거절 버튼을 눌렀어요. (It was a spam call, so I pressed the decline button.)

Socially, Koreans talk about the 'art of refusal' (거절의 기술). Because Korea is a high-context society, people often discuss how to perform a 거절 without damaging relationships. You might hear people asking for advice: '어떻게 기분 안 나쁘게 거절할 수 있을까요?' (How can I refuse without making them feel bad?).

News and Media: Headlines often use '거절' when countries refuse to participate in talks or when a high-profile athlete refuses a contract offer. It is a staple of journalistic Korean.

정부는 그 요구를 공식적으로 거절했습니다. (The government officially refused that demand.)

결제가 거절된 이유가 뭐죠? (What is the reason the payment was declined?)

모르는 번호는 그냥 거절하세요. (Just decline calls from unknown numbers.)

Whether it's the 'Decline' button on your KakaoTalk, a rejection letter from a university, or a polite 'no' to a salesperson, 거절 is everywhere. It is the linguistic tool used to manage expectations and set limits in a society that values harmony but also requires clear boundaries.

One of the most frequent mistakes learners make with 거절 is confusing it with similar words like 거부 (geobu) or 사양 (sayang). While all three can be translated as 'refusal' or 'decline,' their usage contexts are quite different. 거절 is the general, multi-purpose word. 거부 is much stronger; it implies a total rejection, a denial, or a refusal to comply with a law or a biological reality (like 'organ rejection' - 장기 거부). Using 거부 when you mean to politely decline an invitation can sound overly aggressive or hostile.

Mistake: Over-using '거부': Don't say '친구의 초대를 거부했다' unless you want to sound like you are declaring war on your friend. Use '거절했다' for standard social situations.

[Wrong]: 제안을 거부했어요. (Sounds like: I revolted against the proposal.)
[Right]: 제안을 거절했어요. (I refused the proposal.)

Another common error is failing to use the correct particle. Because 거절 is a noun, you must use the object marker 을/를 when using it with 하다. While '거절하다' is often written as one word, grammatically it is 'doing a refusal.' Beginners often forget the object of the refusal itself. You are not 'refusing to the friend'; you are 'refusing the friend's request.'

[Wrong]: 친구에게 거절했어요. (I refused to the friend.)
[Right]: 친구의 부탁을 거절했어요. (I refused the friend's request.)

Learners also struggle with the passive form 거절당하다. In English, we use the 'be + past participle' (was rejected). In Korean, '당하다' implies suffering an unwanted action. If you say '거절됐어요' (was refused), it sounds like a neutral administrative fact. If you say '거절당했어요,' it carries the emotional weight of being the victim of a rejection.

Passive Nuance: Use 거절당하다 for personal rejections (dates, favors). Use 거절되다 for formal or system-based rejections (visas, credit cards).

데이트 신청을 거절당해서 슬퍼요. (I'm sad because my date request was rejected.)

[Wrong]: 더 먹으라는 권유를 거절했어요. (Sounds like a formal rejection of a legal offer.)
[Right]: 더 먹으라는 권유를 사양했어요. (I politely declined the offer to eat more.)

Lastly, avoid using 거절 as a verb without '하다'. It is a noun. Saying '나는 거절' is like saying 'I refusal.' Always pair it with the appropriate verb ending to match the formality of the situation. By paying attention to these nuances, you will avoid sounding robotic or unintentionally rude.

To truly master the concept of 'no' in Korean, you must compare 거절 with its synonyms and near-synonyms. Each word carries a different 'flavor' and formality level.

거절 (Geojeol) vs. 사양 (Sayang): 거절 is a general refusal of a request or proposal. 사양 is specifically for politely declining a favor, a gift, or an offer of kindness. You '사양' a cup of coffee; you '거절' a business partnership.

호의를 사양하는 것도 예의예요. (Declining a favor is also a form of etiquette.)

거절 (Geojeol) vs. 거부 (Geobu): 거부 is much stronger than 거절. It implies rejection of a duty, a law, or a fundamental fact. It often appears in political or medical contexts. For example, '거부권' is a 'veto power.'

대통령은 법안에 대해 거부권을 행사했다. (The president exercised his veto power over the bill.)

거절 (Geojeol) vs. 배제 (Baeje): 배제 means 'exclusion.' While 거절 is about not accepting something offered, 배제 is about removing something from consideration or a group. '가능성을 배제하다' means to 'rule out/exclude a possibility.'

그는 명단에서 배제되었습니다. (He was excluded from the list.)

거절 (Geojeol) vs. 반려 (Ballyeo): 반려 is a specific administrative term meaning 'to return a document/application.' If your paperwork is '반려,' it means it was rejected and sent back to you for correction.

서류가 미비해서 반려되었습니다. (The documents were returned/rejected due to being incomplete.)

그의 제안은 일언지하에 거절당했다. (His proposal was rejected in a single word/instantly.)

부당한 요구는 거절하는 것이 맞습니다. (It is right to refuse unfair demands.)

By expanding your vocabulary with these alternatives, you can express the nuance of a 'no' with precision. Whether you are aiming for politeness or firm authority, choosing the right word from this set will make your Korean sound much more natural and sophisticated.

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

The character 絶 (절) is the same one used in '절대' (never/absolutely), emphasizing the finality of the act of cutting off.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /kʌ.dʑʌl/

US /kʌ.dʑʌl/

In Korean, syllables generally have equal weight, but a slight emphasis may fall on the first syllable '거' (geo).

Rhymes With

조절 (control) 명절 (holiday) 계절 (season) 친절 (kindness) 비절 (grief) 단절 (disconnection) 판절 (judgment) 품절 (sold out)

Common Errors

Pronouncing 'eo' as 'o' (sounds like 'go-jeol' instead of 'guh-jeol').
Pronouncing the final 'l' as a dark 'l' (like in 'ball'). In Korean, it should be a light 'l' with the tongue touching the roof of the mouth.
Aspirating the 'k' sound too much (sounding like 'heo-jeol').

Difficulty Rating

Reading 2/5

The Hanja is common, and the word appears frequently in texts.

Writing 3/5

Requires knowledge of particles and verb endings like -당하다.

Speaking 3/5

Pronouncing 'eo' and 'l' correctly takes practice for English speakers.

Listening 2/5

Clear pronunciation makes it easy to identify in speech.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

아니요 싫다 부탁 제안 하다

Learn Next

거부 사양 반려 수락 승낙

Advanced

일언지하 문전박대 존재론적 기표

Grammar to Know

Passive with -당하다

거절당하다 (to be refused/rejected)

Noun-modifying form -는

거절하는 사람 (the person who refuses)

Adverbial form -게

정중하게 거절하다 (to refuse politely)

Causative/Passive -되다

거절되다 (to be rejected - formal)

Nominalization -기

거절하기 (the act of refusing)

Examples by Level

저는 거절했어요.

I refused.

Simple past tense of 거절하다.

거절하지 마세요.

Please don't refuse.

-지 마세요 (Please don't).

거절은 싫어요.

I don't like refusal.

Noun + 은/는 + 싫어요.

이거 거절이에요?

Is this a refusal?

Noun + 이예요/예요? (Is it...?).

그는 거절을 잘해요.

He is good at refusing.

Noun + 을/를 + 잘하다 (to be good at).

엄마가 거절했어요.

Mom refused.

Subject marker -가 used with a family member.

거절 버튼을 눌러요.

Press the decline button.

Noun + 을/를 + 누르다 (to press).

초대를 거절해요.

I refuse the invitation.

Present tense of 거절하다.

친구의 부탁을 거절했어요.

I refused my friend's favor/request.

Possessive particle -의 used with 부탁 (request).

제안을 거절하기 힘들어요.

It's hard to refuse the proposal.

-기 힘들다 (to be hard to do something).

선물을 정중하게 거절했습니다.

I politely refused the gift.

Adverb 정중하게 (politely) + Formal past tense.

왜 제 도움을 거절하세요?

Why do you refuse my help?

Honorific -시- added to 거절하다.

비자가 거절될까 봐 걱정돼요.

I'm worried that my visa might be refused.

-ㄹ까 봐 걱정되다 (to worry that...).

그는 내 전화를 거절했다.

He declined my call.

Plain style past tense.

거절하는 이유를 말해 주세요.

Please tell me the reason for refusing.

Noun-modifying form -는 + 이유 (reason).

이번에는 거절할 수 없어요.

I cannot refuse this time.

-ㄹ 수 없다 (cannot).

그의 요청은 단호하게 거절당했다.

His request was flatly rejected.

Passive form 거절당하다 + Adverb 단호하게.

거절을 잘하는 것도 능력이에요.

Being good at refusing is also an ability.

Nominalized verb -는 것 + Subject marker -이/가.

미안하지만 이번 제안은 거절하겠습니다.

I'm sorry, but I will decline this proposal.

-겠지만 (will, but) expressing polite intent.

상사의 지시를 거절하기는 어렵습니다.

It is difficult to refuse a boss's instructions.

Topic marker -는 added to -기 (nominalizer) for emphasis.

그녀는 거절의 뜻을 분명히 밝혔다.

She clearly expressed her intention to refuse.

거절의 뜻 (intention of refusal) + 분명히 (clearly).

아무리 친해도 거절할 건 거절해야죠.

No matter how close you are, you should refuse what needs to be refused.

아무리 -해도 (no matter how...) + -어야죠 (should).

거절당할까 봐 고백을 못 하겠어요.

I can't confess because I'm afraid of being rejected.

Passive 거절당하다 + -ㄹ까 봐 (fear of).

그는 내 제안을 딱 잘라 거절했다.

He cut me off and refused my proposal point-blank.

Idiom 딱 잘라 (point-blank/sharply).

합리적인 이유 없이 거절하면 안 됩니다.

You should not refuse without a rational reason.

-면 안 되다 (should not) + 합리적인 (rational).

그 회사는 우리의 합병 제안을 거절했다.

That company refused our merger proposal.

Business vocabulary: 합병 (merger).

거절 사유를 문서로 보내 주시기 바랍니다.

Please send the reason for refusal in writing.

-기 바랍니다 (I hope/please) - formal request.

부당한 요구에 대해서는 거절권을 행사하세요.

Exercise your right to refuse unfair demands.

거절권 (right to refuse) + 행사하다 (to exercise/wield).

그는 부모님의 기대를 거절하고 꿈을 쫓았다.

He rejected his parents' expectations and pursued his dream.

쫓다 (to pursue) + 거절하고 (refused and).

대출 신청이 은행으로부터 거절되었습니다.

The loan application was refused by the bank.

Formal passive 거절되다 + -로부터 (from).

정중한 거절은 관계를 망치지 않습니다.

A polite refusal does not ruin a relationship.

망치다 (to ruin) + Negation -지 않다.

그는 일언지하에 나의 도움을 거절했다.

He refused my help without a second thought.

Four-character idiom: 일언지하 (at a single word).

거절의 미학을 아는 사람은 드뭅니다.

People who know the aesthetics of refusal are rare.

거절의 미학 (aesthetics of refusal) + 드물다 (rare).

사회적 거절은 인간에게 큰 심리적 타격을 줍니다.

Social rejection deals a huge psychological blow to humans.

심리적 타격 (psychological blow) + 주다 (to give).

그는 내 부탁을 박절하게 거절해 버렸다.

He refused my request in a cold and heartless manner.

Adverb 박절하게 (coldly/heartlessly) + -어 버리다 (completion with regret).

협상 과정에서 거절은 하나의 전략일 수 있습니다.

In the negotiation process, refusal can be a strategy.

협상 과정 (negotiation process) + 전략 (strategy).

그의 거절은 단순한 거절 이상의 의미가 있었다.

His refusal had a meaning beyond a simple 'no'.

Noun + 이상의 (more than).

거절당한 아픔을 승화시켜 예술로 만들었다.

He sublimated the pain of being rejected into art.

승화시키다 (to sublimate) + Noun-modifying past form.

정부는 외교적 마찰을 피하기 위해 거절을 유예했다.

The government deferred the refusal to avoid diplomatic friction.

외교적 마찰 (diplomatic friction) + 유예하다 (to defer/postpone).

거절이 두려워 시도조차 하지 않는 것은 어리석다.

It is foolish not to even try for fear of rejection.

시도조차 (even an attempt) + 어리석다 (foolish).

거절의 기표 아래 숨겨진 욕망을 분석해야 한다.

We must analyze the desires hidden beneath the signifier of refusal.

Philosophical terms: 기표 (signifier), 욕망 (desire).

법원은 피고인의 상고를 거절하고 원심을 확정했다.

The court refused the defendant's appeal and upheld the original sentence.

Legal terms: 피고인 (defendant), 상고 (appeal), 원심 (original sentence).

그는 존재론적 거절을 통해 자아를 확립하고자 했다.

He sought to establish his ego through ontological refusal.

존재론적 (ontological) + 자아 (ego/self).

문학에서 거절은 종종 비극적 결말의 전조로 쓰인다.

In literature, refusal is often used as a harbinger of a tragic ending.

전조 (harbinger/omen) + 쓰이다 (to be used).

권력 관계에서의 거절은 단순한 의사 표현이 아니다.

Refusal within power relations is not a simple expression of intent.

권력 관계 (power relations) + 의사 표현 (expression of intent).

그의 제안은 시대적 흐름에 의해 거절당한 셈이다.

His proposal was essentially rejected by the trends of the times.

시대적 흐름 (trends of the times) + -ㄴ 셈이다 (it's as if/essentially).

거절의 담론은 현대 사회의 개인주의를 반영한다.

The discourse of refusal reflects the individualism of modern society.

담론 (discourse) + 반영하다 (to reflect).

그는 사회적 규범에 대한 전면적인 거절을 선언했다.

He declared a total refusal of social norms.

전면적인 (total/all-out) + 선언하다 (to declare).

Common Collocations

거절을 당하다

정중하게 거절하다

단호하게 거절하다

거절 사유

거절의 뜻

딱 잘라 거절하다

거절 버튼

부탁을 거절하다

제안을 거절하다

거절하기 어렵다

Common Phrases

거절은 거절한다

— A humorous way to say 'I won't take no for an answer.' Popularized in internet culture.

선물이야, 거절은 거절한다!

거절의 기술

— The skill or art of refusing someone without hurting their feelings.

거절의 기술이 필요해요.

정중한 거절

— A polite way of saying no, usually involving an apology.

정중한 거절을 배웠어요.

거절 메시지

— A message sent to decline something, like a meeting or a call.

거절 메시지를 보냈어요.

거절 메일

— A rejection email, often from a company or university.

거절 메일을 받았습니다.

거절의 표시

— A sign or gesture indicating a refusal.

고개를 젓는 것은 거절의 표시예요.

거절할 권리

— The right to say no or refuse something.

누구에게나 거절할 권리가 있다.

거절당한 기분

— The feeling of being rejected.

거절당한 기분은 정말 별로예요.

거절을 못 하다

— To be unable to say no (often due to personality).

저는 거절을 잘 못 해요.

거절 통보

— A formal notification of rejection.

불합격 거절 통보를 받았어요.

Often Confused With

거절 vs 거부

Stronger, used for laws/commands. 거절 is for requests/offers.

거절 vs 사양

Polite decline of food/gifts. 거절 is more general.

거절 vs 반려

Administrative rejection of documents.

Idioms & Expressions

"일언지하에 거절하다"

— To refuse immediately and flatly without any hesitation.

그는 내 제안을 일언지하에 거절했다.

Formal/Literary

"딱 잘라 거절하다"

— To refuse point-blank or sharply, like cutting something with scissors.

어머니는 내 외출을 딱 잘라 거절하셨다.

Neutral

"손사래를 치며 거절하다"

— To refuse while waving one's hands (a common Korean gesture for 'no').

그는 손사래를 치며 제안을 거절했다.

Neutral

"콧방귀를 뀌며 거절하다"

— To snort and reject something (implies the offer was ridiculous or beneath them).

그는 내 아이디어를 콧방귀를 뀌며 거절했다.

Informal

"문전박대(를) 하다"

— To refuse someone at the door; to treat someone coldly and turn them away.

손님을 문전박대하면 안 된다.

Literary

"퇴짜를 놓다"

— To reject something or someone, often in a dating or shopping context.

그녀는 그의 고백에 퇴짜를 놓았다.

Informal

"찬바람이 불다"

— Used to describe a cold atmosphere, often after a harsh refusal.

그의 거절 이후 두 사람 사이에 찬바람이 불었다.

Metaphorical

"얼음장 같다"

— Cold like a sheet of ice; used for a very cold and firm refusal.

그녀의 거절은 얼음장 같았다.

Metaphorical

"벽에 부딪히다"

— To hit a wall; used when one's attempts are constantly met with refusal.

계획이 거절의 벽에 부딪혔다.

Metaphorical

"고개를 가로젓다"

— To shake one's head from side to side as a sign of refusal.

그는 거절의 의미로 고개를 가로저었다.

Neutral

Easily Confused

거절 vs 거부

Both mean 'refusal'.

거부 is much more forceful and often implies a refusal to obey or recognize something. 거절 is for social interactions.

명령 거부 (refusing an order) vs. 부탁 거절 (refusing a favor).

거절 vs 사양

Both involve saying no.

사양 is specifically for being humble or polite when someone offers you something nice. 거절 is neutral.

선물 사양 (politely declining a gift) vs. 제안 거절 (refusing a proposal).

거절 vs 취소

Both involve stopping something.

취소 is 'cancellation' of something already planned. 거절 is refusing to accept it in the first place.

예약 취소 (canceling a reservation) vs. 초대 거절 (refusing an invitation).

거절 vs 반대

Both are negative responses.

반대 is 'opposition' or 'disagreement' with an idea. 거절 is the act of not accepting it.

의견 반대 (opposing an opinion) vs. 요청 거절 (refusing a request).

거절 vs 배제

Both involve not including something.

배제 is 'exclusion' or 'ruling out.' 거절 is a direct response to an offer.

명단 배제 (exclusion from a list) vs. 제안 거절 (refusal of an offer).

Sentence Patterns

N을/를 거절해요.

초대를 거절해요.

N을/를 거절하기 힘들어요.

부탁을 거절하기 힘들어요.

N에게 거절당했어요.

그녀에게 거절당했어요.

정중하게 거절하겠습니다.

제안은 정중하게 거절하겠습니다.

N이라는 이유로 거절되다.

바쁘다는 이유로 거절되었다.

거절 사유를 밝히다.

회사는 거절 사유를 밝혔다.

거절의 미학/기술.

거절의 미학을 배워야 한다.

N에 대한 전면적인 거절.

규칙에 대한 전면적인 거절.

Word Family

Nouns

거절 (refusal)

거절자 (refuser)

거절증 (negativism - psychological term)

Verbs

거절하다 (to refuse)

거절당하다 (to be refused)

거절되다 (to be rejected - formal/passive)

Adjectives

거절하기 쉬운 (easy to refuse)

거절하기 어려운 (hard to refuse)

거부 (rejection)

사양 (declining)

반려 (return)

불허 (non-permission)

승낙 (consent)

How to Use It

frequency

Very high in both spoken and written Korean.

Common Mistakes

Using 거절 for declining coffee. → 사양 or 괜찮습니다.
거절 sounds too formal and cold for a simple offer of a drink.
Saying '친구에게 거절했어요'. → 친구의 부탁을 거절했어요.
You refuse the *request*, not the *person* directly with the 'to' particle.
Confusing 거절 with 취소. → 거절 (refusal) vs 취소 (cancellation).
You 거절 an invitation you haven't accepted yet; you 취소 a meeting you already agreed to.
Using 거절 without '하다' as a verb. → 거절했어요.
거절 is a noun; it needs a verb to function as an action.
Using 거부 for a polite no. → 거절.
거부 sounds like a rebellion or a legal denial, which is too strong for social use.

Tips

Softening the Blow

When you have to 거절 someone, start with '정말 죄송하지만...' (I'm really sorry but...) to maintain harmony.

Passive Forms

Remember that '거절되다' is neutral (like a system error), while '거절당하다' is personal (like a person saying no to you).

Intonation

Saying '거절합니다' with a flat tone can sound very cold. Use a slightly rising and falling intonation to sound more human.

Synonym Choice

Choose '사양' for gifts/food and '거절' for requests/proposals to sound like a more advanced speaker.

Particles

Don't forget '을/를'! It's '부탁을 거절하다,' not just '부탁 거절하다' in proper writing.

Context Clues

If you hear '거절' in a formal speech, look for words like '제안' (proposal) or '요구' (demand) nearby.

Phone Settings

Set your phone language to Korean. You'll see '거절' every time you get a call you don't want to answer!

Point-Blank

Use '딱 잘라 거절하다' when you want to describe someone who was very firm and didn't leave any room for negotiation.

Receiving a No

If someone says '거절' to you, it's polite to say '알겠습니다' (I understand) and not push further.

TOPIK Tip

The word '거절' often appears in the listening section of TOPIK II in conversations about favors or business.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Imagine someone holding a 'G' (거) and a 'J' (절) like a pair of scissors, cutting (절) a rope that represents a request.

Visual Association

A red 'Decline' button on a smartphone screen with the word '거절' written on it.

Word Web

부탁 (request) 제안 (proposal) 초대 (invitation) 선물 (gift) 아니요 (no) 미안하다 (to be sorry) 이유 (reason) 사양 (polite decline)

Challenge

Try to refuse three small things today using '거절' in your head. For example, when you see an ad, think '광고를 거절합니다'.

Word Origin

Derived from Hanja: 拒 (거) meaning 'to resist/refuse' and 絶 (절) meaning 'to cut off/sever'.

Original meaning: To cut off a request or to resist an offer by severing the connection.

Sino-Korean (Hanja-derived vocabulary).

Cultural Context

Be careful when using '거절하다' with superiors. It can sound too blunt. Using '사양하다' or '어려울 것 같습니다' (It seems difficult) is safer.

In English, 'no' can be very direct. In Korean, '거절' is the formal name for the act, but the act itself is usually much more indirect than in English-speaking cultures.

The song '거절' by various K-pop artists often deals with heartbreak. K-dramas frequently use the phrase '거절은 거절한다' as a trope for a persistent lover. Psychology books in Korea often have chapters on '어떻게 거절할 것인가' (How to refuse).

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Business

제안을 거절하다
거절 사유
공식적으로 거절하다
협상 거절

Dating

고백을 거절하다
거절당하다
정중한 거절
데이트 거절

Daily Life

부탁을 거절하다
초대를 거절하다
선물을 거절하다
거절하기 미안하다

Technology

전화 거절
결제 거절
거절 버튼
요청 거절됨

Legal/Official

비자 거절
상고 거절
거절권 행사
거절 통보

Conversation Starters

"부탁을 거절하는 게 힘들 때 어떻게 하세요? (What do you do when it's hard to refuse a favor?)"

"최근에 누구의 제안을 거절한 적이 있나요? (Have you refused someone's proposal recently?)"

"정중하게 거절하는 가장 좋은 방법은 뭘까요? (What is the best way to refuse politely?)"

"거절당했을 때 기분이 어떠셨어요? (How did you feel when you were rejected?)"

"한국에서는 거절을 어떻게 표현하는 게 좋을까요? (How is it best to express refusal in Korea?)"

Journal Prompts

내가 누군가의 부탁을 거절했던 경험에 대해 써 보세요. (Write about an experience where you refused someone's request.)

거절을 잘하는 것이 왜 중요한지 당신의 생각을 적어 보세요. (Write your thoughts on why being good at refusing is important.)

거절당하는 것에 대한 두려움을 어떻게 극복할 수 있을까요? (How can we overcome the fear of being rejected?)

한국과 당신의 나라의 거절 문화 차이를 비교해 보세요. (Compare the differences in refusal culture between Korea and your country.)

'거절의 기술'이라는 제목으로 짧은 글을 지어 보세요. (Write a short piece titled 'The Art of Refusal'.)

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

The word itself isn't rude, but the way you deliver a '거절' matters. In Korea, it's polite to apologize or give a reason when you refuse someone.

거절하다 is the active 'to refuse.' 거절당하다 is the passive 'to be refused' (usually with a sense of being hurt or inconvenienced).

You can, but '사양하다' or '괜찮습니다' sounds much more natural and polite when declining food.

You can say '그녀에게 거절당했어요' or more casually '그녀한테 차였어요' (I was dumped/kicked).

It's a meme-like phrase meaning 'I refuse your refusal' or 'I won't take no for an answer.'

Yes, it comes from 拒 (resist) and 絶 (cut off).

Use '거부' for very strong, formal rejections, like refusing a medical treatment or a government order.

You can say '거절 편지' or '거절 메일'.

The most common opposites are '수락' (acceptance) or '승낙' (consent).

Yes, '결제 거절' is the standard term for a declined payment.