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Vocabulary
잠시만요

A1 interjection 10 min read

잠시만요

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips 잠시만요 in 30 Seconds

Explanation 잠시만요 in your Level:

At the A1 level, '잠시만요' (Jam-si-man-yo) is introduced as a fixed expression that means 'Just a moment' or 'Excuse me.' Beginners learn this as a survival phrase. It is used in very simple contexts: asking someone to wait for a second while you find your wallet, or saying it when you want to get off a crowded bus. At this stage, learners don't need to worry about the internal grammar of the word (the 'jam-si' or 'man' parts), but rather focus on the whole phrase as a polite way to pause an interaction. It is often taught alongside 'Sillye-hamnida' to show the difference between getting attention and asking for a moment. The focus is on clear pronunciation and using it in immediate, physical situations. Learners should practice saying it with a polite tone and a slight head nod to convey respect, even if they don't know many other words yet. It is one of the most 'high-yield' phrases for a tourist or a new resident in Korea because it provides a polite way to handle delays and crowded spaces without needing complex sentences.

At the A2 level, learners begin to understand the components of '잠시만요.' They learn that 'jam-si' refers to a short duration of time. They start to distinguish between '잠시만요' and '잠깐만요,' noting that '잠시' is slightly more formal. A2 learners are expected to use this phrase in a wider variety of service-related contexts, such as at a bank, a post office, or a restaurant. They might start pairing it with simple verbs, like '잠시만 기다려 주세요' (Please wait a moment). The focus at this level is on situational appropriateness. For example, an A2 learner should know to use '요' at the end when speaking to a shopkeeper but might experiment with '잠시만요' versus '잠시만' depending on the age of the person they are talking to. They also learn to use it as a 'buffer' phrase when they are struggling to remember a word in Korean, giving them a few seconds to think without the conversation feeling awkward. This helps build speaking confidence by providing a natural way to manage the pace of a conversation.

At the B1 level, the use of '잠시만요' becomes more nuanced. Learners understand that it can be used to politely interrupt someone or to pivot a conversation. They start to recognize the word in more formal settings, such as during a business presentation or a formal meeting. B1 learners should be able to use the phrase to manage multi-tasking, such as saying it to a colleague while they finish an email. They also begin to understand the cultural implications of the phrase—how it functions within the 'pali-pali' culture to maintain harmony while being efficient. At this level, the learner might also encounter the word in more complex grammar patterns, such as '잠시만요, 제가 확인해 보겠습니다' (Just a moment, let me check that). The focus shifts from survival to social integration, where the phrase is used to smooth over potential social friction. They also learn the nuances of intonation—how a rising intonation can make it a soft request, while a flat intonation can make it a firm command in a crowded subway.

At the B2 level, learners are comfortable using '잠시만요' in almost any social or professional context. they understand the subtle difference in register between '잠시만요,' '잠깐만요,' and '실례합니다' and can choose the correct one instinctively. They might use '잠시' in more literary or formal writing, such as in an email to a professor. B2 learners also start to pick up on the use of the word in media, noticing how it is used to create tension or relief in K-dramas or movies. They can use the phrase rhetorically, for example, to stop someone from making a mistake or to ask for a pause in a fast-paced debate. The focus at this level is on 'naturalness'—using the phrase with the exact timing and tone that a native speaker would. They also understand how to use it to 'soften' a refusal or a difficult statement, making their overall Korean sound more sophisticated and empathetic. They might also begin to use related terms like '잠시나마' (even for a short while) in more complex sentences.

At the C1 level, the learner has a deep, intuitive grasp of '잠시만요' and its related forms. They can appreciate the word's role in Korean literature and formal discourse, where '잠시' might be used to describe the transience of time or a fleeting moment. C1 learners can use the phrase in high-stakes environments, such as a legal or medical context, where precision in timing and politeness is critical. They are aware of the historical development of the word and how it reflects Korean social hierarchies. They can also use the phrase in a more playful or idiomatic way, perhaps using it in a joke or a sarcastic remark among close friends. The focus is on mastery of register and the ability to use the word to manipulate the 'flow' (nunchi) of a social interaction. They can also explain the nuances of the word to others, demonstrating a metalinguistic awareness of how 'time' is conceptualized and requested in Korean culture compared to their native language.

At the C2 level, the learner's use of '잠시만요' is indistinguishable from that of a highly educated native speaker. They can use the word and its derivatives in the most formal academic writing or in the most casual street slang with perfect accuracy. They understand the philosophical underpinnings of 'a moment' in Korean thought and can engage in discussions about how language reflects a society's relationship with time. In a professional capacity, they might use the phrase to expertly manage a large group or a complex negotiation, using it as a tool for diplomatic pausing. They are also sensitive to regional variations or archaic forms of the word that might appear in historical dramas or classical literature. For a C2 learner, '잠시만요' is no longer just a phrase; it is a versatile instrument of communication that they can play with total control over its emotional and social resonance. They can use it to command a room, to show deep humility, or to provide comfort, all through subtle shifts in delivery and context.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

잠시만요 in 30 Seconds

A polite Korean phrase meaning 'Just a moment' or 'Excuse me' when passing through a crowd.
Essential for A1 learners to navigate daily social interactions and public transportation in Korea.
Formed from 'jam-si' (short time), 'man' (only), and 'yo' (polite ending).
More natural than 'sillye-hamnida' for physical movement and quick pauses in service environments.

The Korean interjection 잠시만요 (Jam-si-man-yo) is one of the most versatile and essential expressions for any learner of the Korean language. At its core, it functions as a polite request for time or space. The phrase is a combination of jam-si (잠시), which means 'a short moment,' the particle man (만), which signifies 'only' or 'just,' and the polite sentence-ending particle yo (요). When combined, it literally translates to 'Just a short moment, please.' However, its functional use extends far beyond a simple request to wait. In the bustling streets of Seoul or the crowded aisles of a local mart, this phrase serves as the primary way to say 'Excuse me' when you need to navigate through a crowd. Unlike the more formal sillye-hamnida (실례합니다), which is often used to apologize for an interruption or to start a conversation with a stranger, 잠시만요 is more immediate and action-oriented.

Literal Meaning: Just for a short time (polite).
Social Function: Used to ask someone to wait, to get past someone in a crowd, or to pause a conversation.

In a cultural context, Korea is known for its pali-pali (hurry-hurry) culture. Despite this fast-paced lifestyle, social etiquette remains paramount. Using 잠시만요 allows a person to navigate this speed without appearing rude. For instance, if you are on a crowded subway train and your stop is approaching, saying this phrase clearly and politely will signal to those standing in your way that you need to exit. It acknowledges their presence while asserting your need to move. It is less about 'sorry' and more about 'please make way' or 'please hold on.' It is also the standard phrase used when answering a phone call if you need a second to step away to a quieter area, or when a cashier needs to check a price.

지하철에서 내릴 때: 잠시만요, 내릴게요! (When getting off the subway: Excuse me, I'm getting off!)

Furthermore, the word is often used interchangeably with jam-kkan-man-yo (잠깐만요). While they are almost identical in meaning, jam-si often feels slightly more formal or 'softer' than jam-kkan. In professional settings, such as a doctor's office or a high-end restaurant, staff will almost exclusively use 잠시만요 to ask you to wait. It suggests a professional level of patience and politeness. Understanding the weight of this word helps a learner transition from sounding like a textbook to sounding like a natural participant in Korean society. It is the grease that keeps the wheels of social interaction turning smoothly, especially in high-density urban environments where personal space is often limited.

Common Usage 1: Asking a person on the phone to hold for a second.
Common Usage 2: Moving through a group of people at a concert or market.

Grammatically, 잠시만요 is an interjection, meaning it can stand alone as a complete sentence. It does not require a subject or a verb to convey its full meaning. This makes it incredibly accessible for beginners. However, as you advance, you can see it integrated into more complex sentence structures to add layers of politeness or specific intent. For example, you might add a verb like gidaryeo-juseyo (please wait) to make it jam-si-man gidaryeo-juseyo. This is the 'gold standard' for polite requests in a service environment.

손님, 잠시만요. 여기 영수증 있습니다. (Customer, just a moment. Here is your receipt.)

When using it to pass through a crowd, the intonation is key. A rising intonation at the end makes it sound more like a polite inquiry, whereas a flat or slightly falling intonation can sound more like an assertive command. In a crowded elevator, a quick 잠시만요 while gently leaning toward the door is the universal signal that you need to get out. It is often paired with a slight bow of the head, which amplifies the politeness of the phrase. In written communication, such as KakaoTalk or emails, it is frequently used to indicate that the person is currently busy but will respond shortly. In this context, it is often followed by a promise of action, like 'I will check and get back to you.'

Sentence Pattern A: [Noun] + 잠시만요: 'Just a moment for [Noun].' Example: 'Sajang-nim, jam-si-man-yo' (Boss, just a moment).
Sentence Pattern B: 잠시만요 + [Action Verb]: 'Just a moment, I will [Action].' Example: 'Jam-si-man-yo, hwagin-halgeyo' (Just a moment, I will check).

Another interesting use case is during an argument or a heated discussion. If one person is talking too fast or making points that the other person wants to address immediately, they might say 잠시만요 to 'pause' the other person's flow. It is a polite way to say 'Hold on a second, let me speak' or 'Wait, that's not right.' This usage requires a slightly firmer tone. It is also used when you are searching for something in your bag while standing at a counter; it tells the person waiting behind you and the cashier that you are aware of the delay and are working on it.

아, 잠시만요. 지갑이 어디 갔지? (Oh, just a moment. Where did my wallet go?)

You will hear 잠시만요 everywhere in Korea. It is the soundtrack of public transportation. On a bus or subway, as people shuffle to get to the doors, this phrase is repeated like a mantra. It is the polite way of saying 'I am moving, please be aware.' If you don't use it, you might find yourself stuck behind a wall of people who don't realize you need to pass. It is also extremely common in the service industry. When you enter a busy restaurant and the host is currently seating another group, they will turn to you and say 잠시만요 to acknowledge you and ask for your patience. It is a sign of good service—it means 'I have seen you, and I will help you as soon as I can.'

식당에서: 네, 잠시만요! 바로 주문 도와드릴게요. (At a restaurant: Yes, just a moment! I'll help you with your order right away.)

In office environments, it is used when a colleague stops by your desk while you are in the middle of a task. Saying 잠시만요 allows you to finish your sentence or save your work before giving them your full attention. It is also used during presentations if the speaker needs to find a specific slide or if there is a technical glitch. In TV dramas (K-dramas), you will often see a character grab another character's arm and say jam-si-man (the informal version) to stop them from walking away during a dramatic revelation. This highlights the word's ability to physically and metaphorically 'stop' time for a brief moment.

Setting: Public Transport: Used to move through crowds or signal you are getting off.
Setting: Retail/Cafes: Used by staff to manage queues or ask for a moment to check stock.

Even in automated settings, you will encounter this word. Elevator voice recordings or automated phone systems often use the phrase jam-si-man gidaryeo juseyo (please wait a moment). This ubiquity means that as a learner, mastering the pronunciation and timing of this phrase will immediately make you feel more integrated into the daily flow of life in Korea. It is a small word with a massive impact on social harmony.

전화 통화 중: 잠시만요, 다른 전화가 왔어요. (On the phone: Just a moment, I have another call.)

The most common mistake English speakers make is using sillye-hamnida (실례합니다) in situations where 잠시만요 is more appropriate. In English, 'Excuse me' covers many bases: apologizing for a sneeze, getting someone's attention, and moving through a crowd. In Korean, these are distinct. If you use sillye-hamnida to push through a crowd on a train, people will understand you, but it sounds overly formal and slightly stiff, like saying 'I beg your pardon for this intrusion' when you just want to reach the door. Using 잠시만요 is more natural and fits the 'action' of moving.

Mistake 1: Using 'Sillye-hamnida' to pass through people. (Correction: Use 'Jam-si-man-yo')
Mistake 2: Forgetting the 'yo' with strangers. (Correction: Always use 'yo' unless with close friends)

Another common error is the confusion between jam-si-man-yo and jam-kkan-man-yo. While they are mostly interchangeable, jam-si is slightly more polite and formal. Beginners often stick to one and forget the other exists, which is fine, but using jam-kkan in a very formal business setting might sound a bit too casual to some ears. Also, learners sometimes forget that 잠시만요 is a request for a *short* time. If you say it and then make someone wait for ten minutes, it becomes rude. For longer waits, you should use different phrasing or explain the delay.

Misunderstanding the physical boundary is another pitfall. In the West, saying 'Excuse me' often precedes any physical movement. In Korea, 잠시만요 is often said *as* you are beginning to move. If you wait for everyone to clear a path before you move, you might never get off the train! The word is a notification of intent as much as it is a request. Finally, don't use this phrase to apologize for a mistake like stepping on someone's foot. For that, you need mian-hamnida (sorry) or joesong-hamnida (very sorry). 잠시만요 is not an apology; it is a temporal and spatial request.

잘못된 사용: (발을 밟았을 때) 잠시만요! (Wrong: Saying 'Just a moment' when you step on someone's foot. Use 'Joesong-hamnida' instead.)

While 잠시만요 is the most common phrase, there are several alternatives depending on the situation. The most direct synonym is jam-kkan-man-yo (잠깐만요). The difference is subtle: jam-si feels a bit more refined and is often preferred in writing or formal service, whereas jam-kkan is the go-to for daily life and casual conversation. If you want to be more specific about asking someone to wait, you can use gidaryeo juseyo (기다려 주세요), which literally means 'please wait.' This is more of a direct command/request and is used when the wait might be slightly longer than just a 'moment.'

잠깐만요 (Jam-kkan-man-yo): More casual, 'Hang on a sec.' Common among friends.
실례합니다 (Sillye-hamnida): 'Excuse me.' Used when interrupting someone or asking for directions.
지나갈게요 (Jinagalgeyo): 'I will pass through.' Often used in conjunction with 'Jam-si-man-yo' in crowds.

If you are in a very formal setting, like a job interview or a high-level meeting, and you need a moment to think or find a document, you might say jam-si sigan-eul jusi-gess-seumnikka? (Could you give me a moment of your time?). This is much more elaborate and formal. On the other end of the spectrum, with close friends, you can simply say jam-si or jam-kkan with a quick hand gesture. Another phrase often confused with this is jeogi-yo (저기요). While jeogi-yo means 'Excuse me' to get someone's attention (like calling a waiter), 잠시만요 is used once you have their attention and need them to wait or move.

In summary, 잠시만요 is your 'all-purpose' tool for polite spatial and temporal requests. It balances the need for speed with the necessity of politeness. Whether you are pausing a K-drama to get popcorn or trying to squeeze through a busy market in Busan, this phrase will be your best friend. Learning when to use it versus its alternatives is a key step in achieving fluency in social Korean.

비교: 저기요 (Attention) vs. 잠시만요 (Wait/Pass). 저기요, 주문할게요! (Excuse me, I'll order!) vs. 잠시만요, 메뉴 좀 더 볼게요. (Just a moment, I'll look at the menu a bit more.)

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

The word 'jam-si' appears in historical texts to denote the fleeting nature of life, but today it is most commonly used to navigate busy subways!

Pronunciation Guide

UK /dʒʌm.si.mʌn.jəʊ/

US /dʒɑːm.si.mɑːn.joʊ/

The primary stress is on the second syllable 'si', with a secondary stress on 'yo'.

Rhymes With

Man-yo (만요) An-nyo (안요) Gan-yo (간요) Nan-yo (난요) Pan-yo (판요) San-yo (산요) Jan-yo (잔요) Dan-yo (단요)

Common Errors

Pronouncing 'jam' like 'fruit jam' (it should be more like 'jahm').
Making the 'si' sound like 'she' (it should be a sharp 's' sound).
Dropping the 'yo' when speaking to strangers.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 1/5

Very easy to recognize as it is phonetically consistent.

Writing 2/5

Simple to write, though beginners might forget the 'si' (시) vs 'gi' (기) distinction.

Speaking 2/5

Easy to say, but natural speed takes some practice.

Listening 1/5

Very easy to hear as it is shouted or spoken clearly in public.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

네 (Yes) 아니요 (No) 감사합니다 (Thank you) 죄송합니다 (Sorry) 저기요 (Excuse me/Hey)

Learn Next

기다리세요 (Wait) 지나갈게요 (I'll pass) 도와주세요 (Help me) 얼마예요? (How much?) 어디예요? (Where is it?)

Advanced

잠시나마 (Even for a short time) 순간 (Moment) 찰나 (Instant) 지체하다 (To delay) 유예 (Postponement)

Grammar to Know

-요 (Polite ending)

잠시만 + 요 = 잠시만요 (Polite request)

-만 (Only/Just particle)

잠시 (A moment) + 만 (Only) = Just a moment

Sino-Korean Nouns

잠시 (暫時) is a Sino-Korean word used for time.

Interjections as sentences

잠시만요! (Complete sentence in context)

Honorifics with titles

사장님, 잠시만요. (Using a title before the interjection)

Examples by Level

잠시만요, 제 지갑요.

Just a moment, my wallet.

'Yo' is added to the noun for politeness.

잠시만요, 저 내려요!

Just a moment, I'm getting off!

Used here as a polite 'Excuse me' for movement.

선생님, 잠시만요.

Teacher, just a moment.

Addressing a superior before the request.

잠시만요, 이거 얼마예요?

Just a moment, how much is this?

Used to pause the seller's movement.

아, 잠시만요. 전화 왔어요.

Oh, just a moment. I have a call.

Standard way to excuse oneself for a call.

잠시만요, 문 좀 열어주세요.

Just a moment, please open the door.

Combining the phrase with a polite request.

잠시만요, 여기 앉으세요.

Just a moment, please sit here.

Using it to pause someone before they sit.

네, 잠시만요. 바로 갈게요.

Yes, just a moment. I'll go right away.

Confirming a request to wait.

잠시만요, 지금 확인해 드릴게요.

Just a moment, I will check for you now.

Standard service industry phrasing.

잠시만요, 제가 도와드릴까요?

Just a moment, shall I help you?

Using it to pause someone to offer assistance.

잠시만요, 여기 영수증 안 가져가셨어요.

Just a moment, you didn't take your receipt.

Used to stop someone who is leaving.

잠시만요, 길 좀 물어볼게요.

Just a moment, I'll ask for directions.

A more action-oriented 'Excuse me' than Sillye-hamnida.

잠시만요, 사진 좀 찍어줄 수 있어요?

Just a moment, can you take a photo for me?

Polite way to initiate a request.

잠시만요, 이 단어 뜻이 뭐예요?

Just a moment, what does this word mean?

Using it to pause a lesson for a question.

잠시만요, 저도 같이 가요!

Just a moment, I'm coming too!

Urgent but polite request to wait.

잠시만요, 메뉴판 좀 다시 보여주세요.

Just a moment, please show me the menu again.

Polite request for a service item.

잠시만요, 그 부분은 제가 다시 설명하겠습니다.

Just a moment, I will explain that part again.

Formal use to control the flow of a meeting.

잠시만요, 지금은 회의 중이라 나중에 전화할게요.

Just a moment, I'm in a meeting now so I'll call later.

Using it to quickly excuse oneself from a call.

잠시만요, 제가 서류를 어디에 두었는지 기억이 안 나요.

Just a moment, I don't remember where I put the documents.

Polite way to manage a small mistake or delay.

잠시만요, 혹시 이 근처에 화장실이 어디 있나요?

Just a moment, by any chance, where is the restroom near here?

'Hoksi' adds a layer of politeness to the inquiry.

잠시만요, 말씀 중에 죄송하지만 질문이 있습니다.

Just a moment, sorry to interrupt but I have a question.

A very polite way to interrupt a speaker.

잠시만요, 이메일 주소를 다시 한 번 확인해 주시겠어요?

Just a moment, could you please check the email address one more time?

Polite request for verification.

잠시만요, 제가 너무 빨리 말했나요?

Just a moment, did I speak too fast?

Using it to pause and check for understanding.

잠시만요, 저기 있는 가방이 제 것 같아요.

Just a moment, I think that bag over there is mine.

Using it to signal a realization and take action.

잠시만요, 방금 하신 말씀은 오해가 있는 것 같습니다.

Just a moment, it seems there is a misunderstanding in what you just said.

Using the phrase to politely challenge a statement.

잠시만요, 결론을 내리기 전에 한 번 더 검토해 봅시다.

Just a moment, let's review it one more time before reaching a conclusion.

Strategic use of the phrase to slow down a process.

잠시만요, 제가 이 상황을 어떻게 해결할지 고민 중입니다.

Just a moment, I am thinking about how to resolve this situation.

Expressing a need for mental space politely.

잠시만요, 그 문제는 다음 회의에서 더 자세히 다루도록 하죠.

Just a moment, let's deal with 그 issue in more detail at the next meeting.

Using the phrase to defer a topic.

잠시만요, 외부 손님이 오셨으니 잠시 자리를 비워주세요.

Just a moment, an outside guest has arrived so please excuse us for a moment.

Formal request for spatial privacy.

잠시만요, 제가 드릴 말씀이 있는데 시간 좀 있으신가요?

Just a moment, I have something to tell you, do you have some time?

Polite way to initiate a serious conversation.

잠시만요, 이 데이터가 최신 버전인지 확실하지 않네요.

Just a moment, I'm not sure if this data is the latest version.

Using it to express professional caution.

잠시만요, 제가 방금 중요한 이메일을 받아서 확인해야 합니다.

Just a moment, I just received an important email so I need to check it.

Justifying a pause in interaction with a reason.

잠시만요, 우리가 간과하고 있는 본질적인 문제가 무엇인지 생각해 봅시다.

Just a moment, let's think about what the essential problem we are overlooking is.

Using the phrase to introduce a deep, reflective point.

잠시만요, 이 작품의 배경을 이해하려면 역사적 맥락을 알아야 합니다.

Just a moment, to understand the background of this work, you must know the historical context.

Academic use to provide necessary framing.

잠시만요, 당신의 논리에는 몇 가지 모순이 발견되는 것 같군요.

Just a moment, it seems several contradictions are found in your logic.

Formal and sharp use in intellectual discourse.

잠시만요, 이 짧은 침묵 속에서 우리는 많은 것을 느낄 수 있습니다.

Just a moment, in this short silence, we can feel many things.

Poetic or rhetorical use of the phrase.

잠시만요, 정부의 이번 정책이 가져올 파급력을 과소평가해서는 안 됩니다.

Just a moment, we must not underestimate the impact that this government policy will bring.

Using the phrase to emphasize a warning.

잠시만요, 제가 이 글을 쓴 의도는 결코 비난이 아니었습니다.

Just a moment, my intention in writing this was never criticism.

Using it to clarify a complex intention.

잠시만요, 인간의 존엄성에 대해 다시 한번 정의해 볼 필요가 있습니다.

Just a moment, there is a need to define human dignity once again.

Abstract and philosophical application.

잠시만요, 이 기술이 윤리적으로 어떤 문제를 일으킬지 잠시 멈춰 서서 고민해 봐야 합니다.

Just a moment, we must stop and think about what ethical problems this technology will cause.

Using the phrase as a moral 'pause' button.

잠시만요, 찰나의 순간이 영겁의 시간과 맞닿아 있다는 사실을 잊지 마십시오.

Just a moment, do not forget the fact that a fleeting moment is connected to eternity.

High-level literary and philosophical usage.

잠시만요, 이 법안의 자구 하나하나가 국민의 삶에 미칠 영향을 숙고해야 합니다.

Just a moment, we must deliberate the impact that every single word of this bill will have on the lives of the people.

Extremely formal and precise usage.

잠시만요, 고전 문학에서 '잠시'라는 시공간이 갖는 상징적 의미를 고찰해 봅시다.

Just a moment, let's examine the symbolic meaning of the space-time of 'a moment' in classical literature.

Academic discourse at a high level.

잠시만요, 현대 사회의 속도전 속에서 우리가 잃어버린 '잠시'의 미학을 되찾아야 합니다.

Just a moment, we must regain the aesthetics of 'a moment' that we have lost in the speed war of modern society.

Sophisticated cultural commentary.

잠시만요, 이 현상의 이면에 숨겨진 복잡한 메커니즘을 규명하는 것이 급선무입니다.

Just a moment, identifying the complex mechanism hidden behind this phenomenon is the priority.

Highly technical and formal structure.

잠시만요, 예술가의 고뇌가 서린 이 붓터치 하나에서 우리는 삶의 진실을 마주합니다.

Just a moment, in this one brushstroke where the artist's agony resides, we face the truth of life.

Elevated poetic prose.

잠시만요, 역사의 거대한 수레바퀴 앞에서 개인의 의지가 갖는 미약함과 위대함을 동시에 봅니다.

Just a moment, in front of the giant wheel of history, we see both the weakness and greatness of individual will.

Profound philosophical reflection.

잠시만요, 이 모든 논의의 출발점이 어디였는지 다시 한번 상기해 볼 필요가 있겠습니다.

Just a moment, it would be necessary to remind ourselves once again where the starting point of all these discussions was.

Using the phrase to reset a high-level discussion.

Common Collocations

잠시만 기다려 주세요

잠시만 시간 내주세요

잠시만요, 확인해 볼게요

잠시만요, 내릴게요

잠시만요, 죄송합니다

잠시만요, 전화 좀

잠시만요, 여기요

잠시만요, 생각 좀

잠시만요, 사장님

잠시만요, 잠깐만요

Common Phrases

잠시만요, 실례합니다

— A very polite way to move through a crowd.

잠시만요, 실례합니다. 지나갈게요.

잠시만요, 이거요

— Used when handing something to someone who is busy.

잠시만요, 이거 받으세요.

잠시만요, 다 됐어요

— Used when you are almost finished with a task.

잠시만요, 이제 거의 다 됐어요.

잠시만요, 어디 가세요?

— Used to stop someone who is leaving suddenly.

잠시만요, 벌써 어디 가세요?

잠시만요, 제가 할게요

— Used to stop someone from doing something so you can do it.

잠시만요, 그건 제가 할게요.

잠시만요, 말씀 좀 묻겠습니다

— A formal way to interrupt to ask a question.

잠시만요, 말씀 좀 묻겠습니다. 시청이 어디죠?

잠시만요, 성함이 어떻게 되시죠?

— Used at a reception desk to ask for a name.

잠시만요, 성함이 어떻게 되시나요?

잠시만요, 다시 말씀해 주세요

— Used when you didn't hear someone clearly.

잠시만요, 다시 한번 말씀해 주세요.

잠시만요, 길 좀 비켜주세요

— A more direct request to clear a path.

잠시만요, 길 좀 비켜주세요.

잠시만요, 여기 보세요

— Used to get someone to look at something specific.

잠시만요, 여기 화면 좀 보세요.

Often Confused With

잠시만요 vs 실례합니다

English 'Excuse me' for attention/apology; Jam-si-man-yo is for waiting/passing.

잠시만요 vs 저기요

Used to call someone's attention (like a waiter); Jam-si-man-yo is used once attention is gained.

잠시만요 vs 미안합니다

Used for apologies; Jam-si-man-yo is a request, not an apology.

Idioms & Expressions

"잠시만 눈을 붙이다"

— To close one's eyes for a moment (to take a short nap).

너무 피곤해서 잠시만 눈을 붙였어요.

Neutral

"잠시만 짬을 내다"

— To find a small window of free time.

바쁘시겠지만 잠시만 짬을 내주세요.

Polite

"잠시만 한눈을 팔다"

— To look away for just a second (often resulting in a mistake).

잠시만 한눈을 판 사이에 아이가 없어졌어요.

Neutral

"잠시만 숨을 돌리다"

— To take a short breather or rest.

우리 잠시만 숨을 돌리고 다시 시작해요.

Neutral

"잠시만 머리를 식히다"

— To cool one's head/calm down for a moment.

화가 나서 잠시만 머리를 식히러 나갔어요.

Neutral

"잠시만 자리를 비우다"

— To step away from one's seat or desk for a moment.

김 대리님은 잠시만 자리를 비우셨습니다.

Formal

"잠시만 기다리면 복이 온다"

— Good things come to those who wait a moment (variation of a common proverb).

조급해하지 마세요. 잠시만 기다리면 복이 올 거예요.

Neutral

"잠시만 스쳐 지나가다"

— To pass by briefly (like a fleeting thought or person).

그 생각은 제 머릿속을 잠시만 스쳐 지나갔어요.

Literary

"잠시만 고개를 돌리다"

— To turn one's head for a second.

잠시만 고개를 돌린 사이에 버스가 가버렸어요.

Neutral

"잠시만 귀를 기울이다"

— To listen intently for a moment.

제 이야기에 잠시만 귀를 기울여 주시겠습니까?

Formal

Easily Confused

잠시만요 vs 잠깐만요

They both mean 'Just a moment.'

Jam-si-man-yo is slightly more formal; Jam-kkan-man-yo is more casual.

잠깐만요, 나도 갈래! (Casual)

잠시만요 vs 잠시후

Both contain 'jam-si'.

'Jam-si-man-yo' is a request; 'Jam-si-hu' means 'after a short while.'

잠시 후 도착합니다. (Arriving in a moment.)

잠시만요 vs 잠시동안

Both contain 'jam-si'.

'Jam-si-man-yo' is an interjection; 'Jam-si-dong-an' is a duration phrase 'for a while.'

잠시 동안 쉬었어요. (I rested for a while.)

잠시만요 vs 조금만요

Both ask for a small amount (of time or stuff).

'Jo-geum-man-yo' literally means 'just a little bit.'

조금만요, 밥 더 주세요. (Just a little more rice, please.)

잠시만요 vs 기다려요

Both imply waiting.

'Gidaryeoyo' is a direct verb 'wait'; 'Jam-si-man-yo' is a softer interjection.

여기서 기다려요. (Wait here.)

Sentence Patterns

잠시만요, [Noun]요.

잠시만요, 카드요.

[Name], 잠시만요.

민수 씨, 잠시만요.

잠시만요, [Verb]-ㄹ게요.

잠시만요, 갈게요.

잠시만요, [Verb]-아/어 주세요.

잠시만요, 봐 주세요.

잠시만요, 혹시 [Sentence]?

잠시만요, 혹시 이거 제 건가요?

잠시만요, 제가 [Verb]-ㄴ/은 후에...

잠시만요, 제가 확인한 후에 전화할게요.

잠시만요, 말씀 중에 [Sentence].

잠시만요, 말씀 중에 죄송하지만 질문이 있습니다.

잠시만요, [Abstract Noun]에 대해 [Verb].

잠시만요, 이 문제의 본질에 대해 다시 생각해 봅시다.

Word Family

Nouns

잠시 (A short moment)

잠깐 (A brief moment)

Verbs

잠시 멈추다 (To stop for a moment)

기다리다 (To wait)

시간 (Time)

순간 (Moment)

찰나 (Instant)

잠시후 (After a while)

잠시동안 (For a short time)

How to Use It

frequency

Extremely high in daily life and service industries.

Common Mistakes

Using 'Sillye-hamnida' to get off a bus. → Jam-si-man-yo!
'Sillye-hamnida' is too formal and sounds like you are apologizing for your existence. 'Jam-si-man-yo' is for the action of moving.
Saying 'Jam-si-man' to a teacher. → Jam-si-man-yo.
Dropping 'yo' is 'banmal' (informal speech) and is disrespectful to superiors.
Using 'Jam-si-man-yo' for a 20-minute wait. → Jam-kkan gidaryeo juseyo (with a time estimate).
'Jam-si' implies a very short time. Using it for a long wait can be misleading and rude.
Saying 'Jam-si-man-yo' when you bump into someone. → Joesong-hamnida.
'Jam-si-man-yo' is a request for time/space, not an apology for a mistake.
Pronouncing it as 'Jam-shi-man-yo' with a very heavy 'sh'. → Jam-si-man-yo (softer 's').
While 'si' has a slight 'sh' quality in Korean, over-emphasizing it makes it sound unnatural.

Tips

The Subway Shuffle

When the subway doors open, say 'Jam-si-man-yo' firmly but politely to clear a path. Don't wait for people to move first.

Softening the Blow

If you have to interrupt a conversation, say 'Jam-si-man-yo' with a slight bow. It makes the interruption much more acceptable.

Service Industry Gold

If you work in service, 'Jam-si-man-yo' is your best friend to keep customers happy while you are busy.

The 'Yo' Factor

Always emphasize the 'yo' at the end when talking to strangers. It changes the tone from a command to a request.

Making Friends

Use 'Jam-si-man-yo' to stop someone politely if you want to ask for their Kakao ID or phone number.

Market Survival

In busy markets like Namdaemun, use this phrase to navigate through the narrow aisles between stalls.

Texting Etiquette

Use '잠시만요~' with a tilde in texts to make it sound extra friendly and polite.

Meeting Management

Use it to pause a meeting if you need to clarify a point. It shows you are engaged and paying attention.

Study Tip

Memorize 'Jam-si-man-yo' as a single block of sound rather than four separate syllables.

Emergency Use

If someone is about to do something dangerous, a loud 'Jam-si-man-yo!' can act as an effective 'Stop!'

Memorize It

Mnemonic

'Jam' (like traffic jam) + 'Si' (see) + 'Man' (man) + 'Yo'. Imagine a man in a traffic jam saying 'Just a moment, I see you!'

Visual Association

Imagine a hand held up in a 'stop' or 'wait' gesture in front of a busy Korean subway door.

Word Web

Wait Excuse me Subway Phone Polite Time Short Moment

Challenge

Try saying 'Jam-si-man-yo' three times fast while maintaining a polite bowing gesture.

Word Origin

Derived from the Sino-Korean word '잠시' (暫時), where '잠' (暫) means temporary or brief, and '시' (時) means time.

Original meaning: A temporary or brief period of time.

Sino-Korean (Hanja-based vocabulary).

Cultural Context

Never use the informal 'Jam-si-man' with someone significantly older than you or in a professional setting, as it can sound dismissive.

In English, we use 'Excuse me' for almost everything. In Korean, you must learn that 'Jam-si-man-yo' is specifically for waiting or passing, not for apologizing for a sneeze.

Often heard in K-dramas when a lead character stops another from leaving. Commonly used by K-pop idols during interviews when they need a second to think. Featured in many 'Survival Korean' guidebooks for tourists.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Subway/Bus

잠시만요, 내릴게요!
잠시만요, 지나갈게요.
잠시만요, 문 좀...
잠시만요, 같이 타요!

Restaurant

잠시만요, 메뉴 좀 더 볼게요.
잠시만요, 주문할게요.
잠시만요, 계산해 주세요.
잠시만요, 물 좀 주세요.

Office

잠시만요, 이메일 좀 보낼게요.
잠시만요, 전화 왔어요.
잠시만요, 서류 확인할게요.
잠시만요, 회의 중이에요.

Shopping

잠시만요, 사이즈 있나요?
잠시만요, 입어볼 수 있나요?
잠시만요, 가격이 얼마죠?
잠시만요, 봉투 주세요.

Phone Call

잠시만요, 잘 안 들려요.
잠시만요, 끊지 마세요.
잠시만요, 메모 좀 할게요.
잠시만요, 바꿔 드릴게요.

Conversation Starters

"잠시만요, 제가 길을 좀 잃었는데 도와주실 수 있나요? (Just a moment, I'm a bit lost, can you help me?)"

"잠시만요, 이 근처에 맛있는 식당이 어디예요? (Just a moment, where is a good restaurant near here?)"

"잠시만요, 사진 한 장만 찍어주실 수 있어요? (Just a moment, could you take a photo for me?)"

"잠시만요, 혹시 한국분이세요? (Just a moment, are you Korean by any chance?)"

"잠시만요, 저기 있는 물건 이름이 뭐예요? (Just a moment, what is the name of that thing over there?)"

Journal Prompts

오늘 '잠시만요'라는 말을 몇 번 들었나요? 어떤 상황이었는지 써보세요. (How many times did you hear 'Jam-si-man-yo' today? Write about the situations.)

지하철에서 내릴 때 '잠시만요'라고 말해본 적이 있나요? 기분이 어땠나요? (Have you ever said 'Jam-si-man-yo' when getting off the subway? How did it feel?)

누군가 나에게 '잠시만요'라고 했을 때, 나는 어떻게 행동해야 할까요? (When someone says 'Jam-si-man-yo' to you, how should you act?)

내가 가장 '잠시만요'라고 말하고 싶은 순간은 언제인가요? (When is the moment you most want to say 'Jam-si-man-yo'?)

'잠시만요'와 '잠깐만요'의 차이를 친구에게 설명해 보세요. (Explain the difference between 'Jam-si-man-yo' and 'Jam-kkan-man-yo' to a friend.)

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

No, it is not an apology. If you step on someone's foot, say 'Joesong-hamnida.' Use 'Jam-si-man-yo' only to ask for time or to get past someone.

No, that is too casual. Always add the 'yo' (Jam-si-man-yo) or use 'Jam-si-man gidaryeo juseyo' to be safe.

'Jam-si' is Sino-Korean and slightly more formal. 'Jam-kkan' is native Korean and more common in everyday speech. They are 95% interchangeable.

To get their attention, say 'Jeogi-yo!' Once they are at your table, if you need a moment to look at the menu, say 'Jam-si-man-yo.'

Yes! It is the most common way to tell people you are moving toward the exit. Say it clearly as you move.

No, 'man' (만) is a Korean particle meaning 'only' or 'just.'

In texting, you can use '잠만' (Jam-man), but this is very casual slang.

Don't use 'Jam-si-man-yo.' Instead, say how long it will take, like 'Sip-bun-man gidaryeo juseyo' (Please wait 10 minutes).

It's more polite than pushing in silence! In Korea, physical contact in crowds is common, and saying the phrase makes it acceptable.

Yes, if you need to check your notes or fix a microphone, it is a perfect way to pause the audience.

Test Yourself 180 questions

writing

Write 'Just a moment' in Korean.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correct spelling is essential.