用你的语言查看此页面

English

فارسی

العربية

Deutsch

Español

Français

日本語

한국어

Português

हिन्दी

A1 noun #2,000 最常用 7分钟阅读

미안

mian 前2,000

At the A1 level, the word 미안 is introduced as one of the most fundamental and essential survival words in the Korean language. Beginners learn it primarily as a fixed expression: 미안해요 (polite) and 미안해 (casual). At this stage, the focus is purely on memorizing these phrases to apologize for simple, everyday mistakes, such as bumping into someone, forgetting a small item, or being slightly late. The grammatical structure is kept extremely simple. Learners are taught to use it as a standalone phrase rather than embedding it into complex sentences. For example, if an A1 learner drops a friend's pencil, they simply say '미안해!'. If they step on a classmate's foot, they say '미안해요!'. The distinction between formal and informal is introduced here, emphasizing that '요' makes it polite. The core objective at the A1 level is to build the habit of apologizing politely to maintain good social relations, without worrying too much about the underlying Hanja or complex grammatical conjugations. It is a building block for basic politeness.

At the A2 level, learners begin to expand their use of 미안 by connecting it to the specific reasons for their apology. This is a significant step forward in conversational ability. The key grammar point introduced at this stage is the connective ending '-아/어서', which means 'because'. Learners are taught to combine a verb (the action they are apologizing for) with '-아/어서' and then add '미안해요'. For example, '늦다' (to be late) becomes '늦어서 미안해요' (I am sorry because I am late). '전화 못 하다' (cannot call) becomes '전화 못 해서 미안해요' (I am sorry I couldn't call). This allows learners to form complete, logical sentences that express regret with context. Additionally, A2 learners start to recognize the noun form '미안' in simple phrases like '미안한 마음' (a sorry heart/feeling). They also practice using intensifiers like '정말' (really) or '진짜' (truly) to add sincerity to their apologies, such as '정말 미안해요'. The focus is on practical, everyday communication and explaining simple faults.

At the B1 level, the understanding of 미안 deepens significantly as learners navigate more complex social situations and emotional expressions. The distinction between 미안하다 and its more formal counterpart, 죄송하다, becomes a critical area of focus. B1 learners must demonstrate the ability to switch between these two words seamlessly depending on the social hierarchy (e.g., using 미안해요 with a coworker of the same age, but 죄송합니다 with the department manager). Furthermore, learners begin to use more advanced grammatical structures with 미안하다, such as '-게 해서 미안하다' (I am sorry for making you do [something]). For example, '기다리게 해서 미안해요' (I am sorry for making you wait) or '걱정하게 해서 미안해' (I am sorry for making you worry). They also learn to express regret for things they *should* have done but didn't, using structures like '-(으)ㄹ 걸 그랬어' in conjunction with apologies. The emotional nuance of the word is explored, understanding that it's not just about admitting fault, but expressing empathy for the other person's inconvenience.

At the B2 level, learners are expected to use 미안 in highly nuanced and socially complex ways. They can engage in detailed conversations about misunderstandings, relationship conflicts, and professional errors. The vocabulary expands to include related idiomatic expressions and compound words. Learners at this stage can articulate *why* they feel sorry in complex, multi-clause sentences, discussing abstract concepts like hurt feelings or broken trust. For example, '제 부주의한 말 때문에 상처를 받으셨다면 정말 미안하게 생각합니다' (If you were hurt by my careless words, I feel truly sorry). They also learn to use the passive or causative forms effectively. At B2, learners understand the subtle difference between '미안하다' (to be sorry) and '미안해하다' (to show/express that one is sorry, usually used when describing a third person's feelings). The cultural concept of 'saving face' (체면) and how apologies function to restore social harmony rather than just admitting legal liability is thoroughly explored.

At the C1 level, the mastery of 미안 involves a deep, near-native understanding of its sociolinguistic implications in Korean society. Learners can analyze the tone, context, and underlying intentions of an apology. They understand that in some contexts, saying '미안하다' can be a conversational lubricant rather than a genuine admission of deep fault, similar to the British use of 'sorry'. They can navigate high-stakes social situations, such as resolving deep interpersonal conflicts or making delicate professional apologies, using highly sophisticated grammar and vocabulary. C1 learners can read between the lines of literature or news media, understanding when an apology is sincere versus when it is a mere formality. They can use expressions like '미안함을 금할 길이 없다' (There is no way to suppress my feeling of apology/regret) in formal writing. The focus is on rhetorical elegance, emotional intelligence, and the flawless execution of pragmatic language skills in any given social dynamic.

At the C2 level, the learner possesses an academic and literary command of the concept of 미안. They can discuss the etymology of the word (未安 - not at peace) and how this Hanja origin reflects the traditional Korean philosophical view of interpersonal relationships and inner tranquility. C2 learners can comprehend and produce highly complex literary texts, poetry, or historical dramas where expressions of regret are layered with cultural metaphors and archaic phrasing. They can debate the psychological and sociological differences between Western concepts of guilt and the Korean concept of '미안함' and 'kibun'. They can effortlessly switch registers, from the most intimate, heartbreaking apologies in a personal letter to the most formal, detached expressions of regret in a corporate or political statement. At this level, the word is not just a vocabulary item, but a lens through which to understand the entire fabric of Korean social psychology and historical linguistic evolution.

开始练习例句笔记与提示

미안 30秒了解

Means 'sorry' or 'apology' in Korean.
Used mostly with friends and peers.
Combined with 하다 to make verbs.
Do not use with elders (use 죄송).

The Korean word 미안 (mi-an) fundamentally translates to 'sorry' or 'apology' in English. It is a noun that forms the root of the highly common verbs 미안하다 (to be sorry) and 미안해하다 (to feel sorry). Understanding this word is absolutely essential for anyone learning Korean, as it serves as the foundation for navigating social interactions, expressing regret, and maintaining interpersonal harmony. In Korean culture, acknowledging a mistake or expressing empathy for someone else's inconvenience is a critical component of daily communication. The concept of 'kibun' (기분), which relates to a person's mood or state of mind, is deeply intertwined with the use of apologies. When you inconvenience someone, their kibun is negatively affected, and offering a sincere 미안 is the first step in restoring that balance.

Core Meaning: The state of feeling regretful or apologetic towards someone for a fault, mistake, or inconvenience caused.

정말 미안해.

The etymology of the word comes from Hanja (Chinese characters): 未 (mi), meaning 'not yet', and 安 (an), meaning 'peace' or 'comfort'. Therefore, the literal translation of 미안 is 'not at peace' or 'uncomfortable'. This beautifully illustrates the Korean psychological approach to apologizing: when you have wronged someone, your own mind is not at peace until you have made amends.

Hanja Breakdown: 未 (미) = Not yet; 安 (안) = Peace. Together: A state of unease or lack of peace due to one's actions.

늦어서 미안합니다.

내 마음이 미안으로 가득 차 있어.

It is important to distinguish 미안 from its more formal counterpart, 죄송 (joe-song). While both mean 'sorry', 죄송 is used when speaking to elders, superiors, or in highly formal situations, whereas 미안 is used with peers, younger people, or in slightly less formal but still polite contexts (when conjugated as 미안해요).

Politeness Level: 미안 is generally considered less formal than 죄송. It is the standard apology among equals and friends.

그 일은 정말 미안하게 생각해요.

친구야, 미안!

In summary, mastering the noun 미안 and its verb forms is a crucial step in your Korean learning journey. It is a word that carries the weight of empathy, social responsibility, and the desire to maintain peaceful and harmonious relationships with those around you.

Using 미안 correctly depends heavily on the social context, the relationship between the speakers, and the severity of the mistake. Because Korean is a hierarchical language, the way you apologize must reflect your social standing relative to the listener. The noun 미안 is rarely used entirely on its own except in very casual text messaging or among extremely close friends (e.g., just saying '미안!'). Instead, it is almost always combined with the verb 하다 (to do) to form 미안하다.

Casual Form (반말): 미안해 (mi-an-hae) or simply 미안 (mi-an). Used with close friends, younger siblings, or romantic partners.

어제 전화 못 받아서 미안해.

When speaking to someone older, a stranger of similar age, or a colleague, you must use the polite form (존댓말). This is done by adding the polite suffix ~요.

Polite Form (해요체): 미안해요 (mi-an-hae-yo). Used in everyday polite situations where strict formality is not required but respect is.

기다리게 해서 미안해요.

도와주지 못해서 미안해요.

For formal situations, such as addressing a crowd, speaking to a superior, or making a public apology, the formal polite form (하십시오체) is used. However, note that in highly formal situations, 죄송합니다 is preferred over 미안합니다.

Formal Form (하십시오체): 미안합니다 (mi-an-ham-ni-da). Used in formal settings, though less deferential than 죄송합니다.

불편을 드려 미안합니다.

먼저 가서 미안해.

Understanding these conjugations and social nuances ensures that your apology is received with the sincerity and respect you intend, preventing further misunderstandings in Korean social dynamics.

The word 미안 is ubiquitous in South Korea, permeating every level of daily life, media, and social interaction. Because maintaining social harmony is a cornerstone of Korean culture, apologies are issued frequently, even for minor inconveniences. You will hear 미안 in casual conversations on the streets of Seoul, in text messages between friends, in popular K-dramas, and in K-pop lyrics.

In K-Dramas: It is a staple of dramatic dialogue. Lovers apologizing for misunderstandings will frequently use '정말 미안해' with tearful eyes.

내가 다 미안해, 울지 마.

In digital communication, such as KakaoTalk (the primary messaging app in Korea), the word is often abbreviated to reflect the fast-paced nature of texting. You might see '먄' (myan) or even just the consonants 'ㅁㅇ' used among close friends.

Text Slang: ㅁㅇ is the consonant-only abbreviation for 미안. It is highly informal and should only be used with very close friends.

나 오늘 못 가. ㅠㅠ 미안!

답장 늦어서 미안해.

You will also hear it in public spaces, though usually in its polite form (미안해요) when someone accidentally bumps into another person on the crowded subway, although '죄송합니다' or '실례합니다' (excuse me) are also common in those specific instances.

Everyday Interactions: Used when returning a borrowed item late, bumping into someone, or forgetting a minor promise.

아프게 해서 미안해.

돈을 못 빌려줘서 미안해.

Recognizing the contexts in which 미안 is used will greatly enhance your listening comprehension and cultural fluency in Korean.

When learning how to apologize in Korean, beginners often make several predictable mistakes regarding politeness levels, grammar integration, and contextual appropriateness. The most glaring and potentially offensive mistake is using the casual form (미안해 or 미안) with someone of higher status, an elder, or a stranger. In Korean culture, using casual speech (반말) inappropriately is considered highly disrespectful and can cause significant offense.

Mistake: Wrong Politeness Level: Saying '미안해' to a teacher or boss instead of '죄송합니다'.

선생님, 숙제를 안 해서 미안해. (INCORRECT - Rude)

Another common grammatical mistake involves how learners connect the reason for the apology to the word 미안. English speakers often try to translate 'I am sorry FOR [action]' directly, leading to awkward phrasing. In Korean, you must use the connective ending -아/어서 (because) with the verb describing the action.

Mistake: Incorrect Grammar Connection: Using '위해서' (for) instead of '-아/어서' (because) to explain the apology.

늦기 위해서 미안해요. (INCORRECT - Makes no sense)

늦어서 미안해요. (CORRECT)

Furthermore, learners sometimes confuse 미안하다 with 실례하다 (to be excused/excuse me). If you want to get someone's attention to ask a question, or if you are passing by someone, you should use 실례합니다, not 미안합니다.

Mistake: Confusing Sorry with Excuse Me: Using 미안합니다 to get a waiter's attention or ask for directions.

길을 막아서 미안합니다.

내 실수야, 미안.

By avoiding these common pitfalls, you will sound much more natural and respectful when navigating apologies in Korean.

The Korean language possesses a rich vocabulary for expressing regret, apology, and empathy, each with its own specific nuance and appropriate context. While 미안 is the most common word for 'sorry' among peers, it is crucial to understand its synonyms to navigate different social hierarchies and situations effectively. The most prominent similar word is 죄송 (joe-song).

죄송 (Joe-song): The formal and humble equivalent of 미안. Used towards elders, superiors, and in formal business or public settings. It carries a heavier sense of fault.

사장님, 늦어서 죄송합니다. (Not 미안합니다)

Another related concept is 사과 (sa-gwa), which means 'apology' in a more formal, noun-centric way. While you say '미안해' to express the feeling of being sorry, you '사과하다' (make an apology) as an action. Interestingly, 사과 is also a homonym for 'apple' in Korean, which leads to a common cultural pun where people give an apple to someone as a cute way of apologizing.

사과 (Sa-gwa): The formal noun for 'an apology'. Used when discussing the act of apologizing rather than expressing the feeling directly.

그에게 정식으로 사과했어요.

이건 내 미안한 마음이야.

Additionally, 유감 (yu-gam) is used to express 'regret' or 'sympathy', often in diplomatic, political, or highly formal contexts where one acknowledges an unfortunate event without necessarily taking direct personal blame. It translates closer to 'It is a pity' or 'I express my regrets'.

유감 (Yu-gam): Regret or pity, often used formally to express sympathy without admitting fault.

이번 일에 대해 유감을 표합니다.

정말 미안하게 됐어.

Understanding these distinctions allows a learner to choose the exact right word for the situation, demonstrating a deep appreciation for Korean cultural nuances.

How Formal Is It?

正式

难度评级

需要掌握的语法

按水平分级的例句

미안해요.

I am sorry. (Polite)

Basic polite form using -아요/어요.

진짜 미안해.

I am really sorry. (Casual)

Casual form with the intensifier 진짜 (really).

엄마, 미안.

Mom, sorry.

Noun used as an exclamation in casual speech.

정말 미안합니다.

I am truly sorry. (Formal)

Formal polite form using -습니다/ㅂ니다.

아, 미안해요!

Ah, sorry!

Used as a quick reaction.

미안해, 친구야.

Sorry, my friend.

Vocative particle 야 used with friend.

많이 미안해요.

I am very sorry.

Adverb 많이 (a lot/much) modifying the adjective.

미안, 내가 갈게.

Sorry, I will go.

Combined with a simple future action.

늦어서 미안해요.

I am sorry for being late.

Uses -아/어서 (because) to show reason.

전화를 못 받아서 미안해.

I am sorry I couldn't answer the phone.

Uses 못 (cannot) + -아/어서.

도와주지 못해서 미안해요.

I am sorry I couldn't help you.

Uses -지 못하다 (long form negation).

바빠서 미안해.

I am sorry because I am busy.

Adjective 바쁘다 conjugated with -아/어서.

이거 깨서 미안해요.

I am sorry for breaking this.

Verb 깨다 (to break) + -아/어서.

먼저 가서 미안해.

I am sorry for leaving first.

먼저 (first) + 가다 (to go).

내 실수야, 미안해.

It's my mistake, I'm sorry.

Noun 실수 (mistake) + 이다 (to be).

기억이 안 나서 미안해요.

I am sorry I can't remember.

기억이 나다 (to remember) in negative form.

오래 기다리게 해서 정말 미안해요.

I am really sorry for making you wait a long time.

Uses causative form -게 하다 (to make someone do).

어제 화를 내서 미안해.

I am sorry for getting angry yesterday.

화를 내다 (to get angry) + -아/어서.

미안한 마음이 들었어요.

I felt a sense of apology (I felt sorry).

Noun modifier form -(으)ㄴ + 마음 (heart/feeling).

연락을 미리 못 드려서 미안합니다.

I am sorry for not contacting you in advance.

Honorific verb 드리다 used for giving contact.

그렇게 말해서 미안해, 내 진심이 아니었어.

I am sorry for speaking like that, it wasn't my true intention.

진심 (true feelings/sincerity).

걱정하게 만들어서 미안해요.

I am sorry for making you worry.

걱정하다 (to worry) + -게 만들다 (to make).

미안하지만, 부탁 하나만 해도 될까요?

I am sorry, but could I ask you a favor?

-지만 (but) used to soften a request.

도움이 안 돼서 미안할 따름이야.

I am just sorry that I am of no help.

-(으)ㄹ 따름이다 (it is only that...).

제 부주의로 인해 불편을 드려 미안하게 생각합니다.

I feel sorry for causing inconvenience due to my carelessness.

-로 인해 (due to) and formal phrasing.

그 친구는 항상 잘못을 하고도 미안해하지 않아요.

That friend always makes mistakes and doesn't even feel sorry.

미안해하다 (to feel/show sorry) used for 3rd person.

미안한 마음에 선물을 하나 준비했어요.

Feeling sorry, I prepared a small gift.

미안한 마음에 (out of a feeling of apology).

굳이 미안하다고 사과할 필요까지는 없어요.

There is no need to go as far as apologizing and saying you are sorry.

Indirect quotation -다고 + 사과하다.

본의 아니게 피해를 끼쳐서 정말 미안합니다.

I am truly sorry for unintentionally causing harm.

본의 아니게 (unintentionally) + 피해를 끼치다 (to cause harm).

아무리 미안하다고 해도 이미 엎질러진 물이야.

No matter how much you say sorry, it's already spilt milk.

아무리 -아/어/여도 (no matter how much) + idiom.

네가 그렇게까지 미안해할 일은 아니라고 봐.

I don't think it's something you need to feel that sorry about.

그렇게까지 (to that extent) + -(으)ㄹ 일 (a matter to...).

미안함을 표현하는 방식이 사람마다 다를 수 있습니다.

The way people express their apologies can differ from person to person.

미안함 (noun form of the feeling) + 표현하다 (to express).

그의 눈빛에는 깊은 미안함과 후회가 서려 있었다.

His eyes were filled with deep apology and regret.

Literary expression 서려 있다 (to be imbued/filled with).

말로 다 할 수 없을 만큼 미안한 심정입니다.

My feelings of apology are beyond what words can express.

-(으)ㄹ 수 없을 만큼 (to the extent that one cannot).

오해를 불러일으킨 점에 대해 심심한 미안함을 표합니다.

I express my profound apologies for causing a misunderstanding.

심심한 (profound/deep) + 표하다 (to express).

이제 와서 미안하다고 한들 무슨 소용이 있겠는가?

What is the use of saying sorry now after all this time?

-(으)ㄴ들 (even if/granted that) + 무슨 소용이 있다 (what use is it).

그녀는 짐짓 아무렇지 않은 척했지만 속으로는 무척 미안해하고 있었음이 틀림없다.

She pretended to be fine, but she must have been feeling incredibly sorry inside.

-음이 틀림없다 (it is certain that...).

미안하다는 말 한마디로 모든 상처가 아물기를 바라는 것은 이기적인 생각이다.

It is a selfish thought to hope that all wounds will heal with just one word of apology.

-기를 바라다 (to hope that) + 이기적 (selfish).

그의 사과는 진정성이 결여된, 그저 상황을 모면하기 위한 미안함의 표시에 불과했다.

His apology lacked sincerity; it was merely a display of regret to escape the situation.

-에 불과하다 (to be nothing more than).

서로에 대한 미안함이 결국 두 사람의 관계를 더욱 단단하게 묶어주는 계기가 되었다.

The mutual feeling of apology eventually became the catalyst that bound their relationship even stronger.

계기가 되다 (to become an opportunity/catalyst).

미안이라는 단어 이면에는 타인의 기분을 헤아리려는 한국인 특유의 정서가 깔려 있다.

Behind the word 'mian' lies the unique Korean sentiment of trying to fathom another person's feelings.

이면 (behind/hidden side) + 정서가 깔려 있다 (sentiment is underlying).

그의 회고록은 평생을 바쳐 헌신한 아내에 대한 절절한 미안함으로 점철되어 있다.

His memoir is dotted with desperate, heartfelt apologies to his wife, who devoted her life to him.

절절한 (desperate/heartfelt) + 점철되어 있다 (to be dotted/filled with).

단순한 과실을 넘어선 도의적 책임에 직면했을 때, 가벼운 미안함의 표명은 오히려 대중의 공분을 사기 십상이다.

When faced with moral responsibility beyond simple negligence, a light expression of apology is liable to incur public outrage instead.

-기 십상이다 (it is easy to / liable to).

미안하다는 말조차 사치로 느껴질 만큼 뼈저린 자책감이 그를 짓눌렀다.

A bone-chilling sense of self-reproach crushed him, to the point where even saying sorry felt like a luxury.

사치로 느껴지다 (to feel like a luxury) + 뼈저린 (bone-chilling/deep).

역사적 과오에 대한 국가 차원의 사과는 단순한 미안함의 차원을 넘어 미래 지향적 관계 구축의 초석이 되어야 한다.

A national-level apology for historical wrongs must go beyond the dimension of simple regret and become the cornerstone for building future-oriented relationships.

초석이 되다 (to become a cornerstone).

그 시조에 담긴 화자의 미안함은 자연의 섭리 앞에서의 인간의 무력함을 은유적으로 드러낸다.

The speaker's apology contained in that Sijo metaphorically reveals human powerlessness in the face of nature's providence.

은유적으로 드러내다 (to reveal metaphorically).

가해자의 일방적인 미안함 강요는 피해자에게 또 다른 형태의 폭력이 될 수 있음을 명심해야 한다.

One must bear in mind that the perpetrator's unilateral forcing of an apology can become another form of violence to the victim.

명심하다 (to keep in mind/bear in mind).

인간관계의 미묘한 균형은 때로는 백 마디의 변명보다 진심 어린 미안함 한 자락으로 회복되곤 한다.

The delicate balance of human relationships is sometimes restored by a single shred of sincere apology rather than a hundred words of excuse.

한 자락 (a shred/a piece) + 회복되곤 한다 (often gets restored).

常见搭配

미안한 마음

미안한 생각

미안함을 느끼다

미안함을 전하다

미안함을 표하다

미안해 죽겠다

정말 미안하다

진짜 미안하다

너무 미안하다

깊은 미안함

常用短语

미안해

미안해요

미안합니다

정말 미안

늦어서 미안

미안하지만

미안한데

내가 미안해

다 미안해

미안해하지 마

容易混淆的词

미안 vs 죄송 (Joe-song) - Used for elders/superiors.

미안 vs 실례 (Sil-lye) - Used for 'excuse me' when interrupting or passing by.

미안 vs 유감 (Yu-gam) - Used for formal 'regret' without admitting fault.

习语与表达

容易混淆

미안 vs

句型

如何使用

note

While 미안 is technically a noun, it functions almost exclusively as the root for descriptive verbs in modern Korean. You will rarely see it used as a subject or object in a sentence (e.g., '미안이 큽니다' is unnatural). It is a pragmatic particle of social interaction.

常见错误

Saying '미안해' to a teacher or boss (Rude).
Saying '미안합니다' to get a waiter's attention (Use 저기요 instead).
Translating 'I am sorry for late' as '늦기 위해서 미안해요' (Incorrect grammar, use 늦어서).
Using 미안하다 to express condolences at a funeral (Use 삼가 고인의 명복을 빕니다).
Saying '미안해' when someone tells you bad news about their life (Use 안타깝네요 or 어떡해요 instead).

小贴士

Never with Elders

The most important rule for beginners: Do not use '미안해' or '미안해요' with your grandparents, teachers, or boss. Always use '죄송합니다'. Using '미안' with elders is considered very rude and shows a lack of cultural understanding.

Connect with -아/어서

When you want to explain WHY you are sorry, use the connective ending -아/어서. For example, '바빠서 미안해' (I am sorry because I am busy). Do not try to translate 'for' directly from English.

Soften Your Tone

The sincerity of your apology is carried in your tone. A sharp, quick '미안' can sound like you are annoyed. Soften your voice and slightly elongate the vowels to sound genuinely apologetic.

The Bow

When saying '미안합니다' or '죄송합니다' in a formal setting, it should always be accompanied by a bow. The deeper the mistake, the deeper and longer the bow should be. A simple head nod is fine for minor bumps on the street.

Texting Slang

When texting your best friends, you can use 'ㅁㅇ' or '먄' for a quick, casual sorry. However, never use this if you are apologizing for something serious, as it looks like you don't care.

The Apple Pun

The word for apology (사과) sounds exactly like the word for apple (사과). It is a common, cute gesture among friends or couples to give an apple to someone when saying sorry to lighten the mood.

Empathy vs Guilt

Remember that '미안해' can sometimes just mean 'I feel bad for you' rather than 'It is my fault'. If a friend tells you they lost their wallet, you might say '아이고, 내가 다 미안하네' (Oh my, I feel so sorry/bad for you).

Negative Apologies

To say you are sorry for NOT doing something, use '못' (cannot) or '-지 않아서' (did not). For example, '전화 못 해서 미안해' (Sorry I couldn't call).

How to Accept

When someone apologizes to you, the best way to accept it gracefully is to say '괜찮아요' (It's okay). This reassures the other person and restores the social harmony (kibun).

Not for 'Excuse Me'

Do not use '미안합니다' to call a waiter in a restaurant or to ask a stranger a question. Use '저기요' (Over here) or '실례합니다' (Excuse me) instead. '미안' is for mistakes.

记住它

记忆技巧

Imagine you accidentally spill a 'ME' (미) 'AN' (안) pie on your friend. You would definitely say 'ME-AN' (Sorry)!

词源

Sino-Korean (Hanja)

文化背景

If a mistake is large, a Korean might give a small gift (like a coffee or a snack) along with the apology to physically demonstrate their '미안한 마음' (sorry heart).

When saying 미안해요, a slight bow of the head or lowering of the eyes demonstrates sincerity. Waving a hand defensively while saying it can seem insincere.

Crucial: 미안 is for equals/juniors. 죄송 is for superiors/elders.

在生活中练习

真实语境

对话开场白

"미안한데, 혹시 펜 좀 빌릴 수 있을까? (Sorry, but could I borrow a pen?)"

"아까는 내가 예민했어, 미안해. (I was sensitive earlier, I'm sorry.)"

"답장이 늦어서 미안해요. (Sorry for the late reply.)"

"미안하지만 길 좀 물어볼게요. (Excuse me/Sorry, but I'd like to ask for directions.)"

"갑자기 연락해서 미안해. (Sorry for contacting you so suddenly.)"

日记主题

Write about a time you had to say '미안해' to a close friend.

Explain the difference between 미안하다 and 죄송하다 in your own words.

Describe a situation where someone said sorry to you, but you didn't feel they meant it.

Write a short apology text message to a friend for being 10 minutes late.

Reflect on why apologizing is important in maintaining relationships.

常见问题

10 个问题

No, it is highly unadvisable. Even if you are friendly with your boss, the workplace hierarchy dictates that you should use '죄송합니다' when apologizing for a mistake. Using '미안' or even '미안해요' can be seen as lacking professionalism and respect for their position. It is always better to err on the side of caution and be more polite in a Korean work environment.

The difference lies entirely in the politeness level. '미안해' is 반말 (casual speech) and should only be used with close friends, romantic partners, or people significantly younger than you. '미안해요' is 존댓말 (polite speech) and is used with acquaintances, colleagues of similar rank, or strangers in casual settings. Adding the '요' at the end makes it polite.

If you want to accept the apology and say 'It's okay', the most common response is '괜찮아' (casual) or '괜찮아요' (polite). You can also say '아니야' (casual) or '아니에요' (polite), which literally means 'No', but in this context means 'No worries / It's nothing'. If it was a big mistake, you might say '다음부터 조심해' (Be careful next time).

While you *can* use '미안합니다' if you accidentally bump into someone while passing, if you just want them to move out of the way, it is more natural to say '잠시만요' (Just a moment) or '실례합니다' (Excuse me). '미안' implies you have already committed a fault, whereas '잠시만요' is a polite request for space.

In Korean culture, maintaining 'kibun' (the mood or harmony of the relationship) is very important. Sometimes, a person will say '미안해' simply to express empathy that you are experiencing a difficult situation, or to smooth over an awkward moment, even if they didn't directly cause the problem. It functions as a social lubricant rather than a strict admission of guilt.

'먄' (myan) is not a standard dictionary word, but it is extremely common internet and texting slang. It is a contraction of '미안' created by combining the sounds. You should only use '먄' when texting very close friends, as it is highly informal and can seem insincere or overly casual if used for a serious apology.

Unlike English where you use 'for + noun/gerund', in Korean you connect the verb of the action you are apologizing for using the grammar pattern '-아/어서'. For example, to say 'I am sorry for being late', you take the verb '늦다' (to be late), add '-어서', and then say '미안해'. The result is '늦어서 미안해'.

'미안해하다' is an action verb used when describing a third person's feelings of regret. In Korean grammar, you cannot directly state a third person's internal emotional state using an adjective like '미안하다'. Instead, you must use the '-아/어하다' form. So, '그가 미안해해요' means 'He feels/is acting sorry'.

No, you should never use '미안하다' to express condolences for a death or a severe tragedy, as it implies you are taking the blame for the event. To express sympathy for someone's loss, you should use specific condolence phrases like '삼가 고인의 명복을 빕니다' (May the deceased rest in peace) or '얼마나 상심이 크십니까' (How great your grief must be).

Yes, but only in very casual situations with close friends or family. Saying just the noun '미안' is like saying a quick 'Sorry!' in English. It is short, punchy, and informal. If you need to be polite, you must use the full verb forms '미안해요' or '미안합니다'.