Level 2

농담

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Understanding '농담' (nongdam)

'농담' means 'a joke' or 'jest' in Korean. It is commonly used in everyday conversations to refer to humorous remarks or playful teasing.

Usage and Context

People use '농담' to lighten the mood or to make others laugh. It can be a simple funny comment or a teasing statement that is not meant to offend. When someone says '농담이에요' (It's a joke), they want to clarify that their words should not be taken seriously.

Common Collocations

  • 농담하다: to joke or make a joke
  • 농담으로: as a joke
  • 농담이야: It's a joke (casual)

Register and Politeness

'농담' is neutral and can be used in both casual and polite speech. However, the tone and context determine whether the joke is appropriate.

Learner Tip

Be careful not to confuse '농담' with serious statements. When you hear '농담이에요', it signals that the speaker is not serious. Avoid taking jokes personally unless the context suggests otherwise.

Example Sentences

그는 항상 농담을 잘해서 분위기를 좋게 만든다.

Geuneun hangsang nongdameul jalhaeseo bunwigireul jokge mandeunda.

He always tells jokes well and creates a good atmosphere.

그 말은 농담이었어요. 너무 심각하게 받아들이지 마세요.

Geu mareun nongdamieosseoyo. Neomu simgakage badadeuriji maseyo.

That was a joke. Please don't take it too seriously.

친구가 농담으로 나를 놀렸지만 기분 나쁘지 않았다.

Chinguga nongdamuro nareul nolryeotjiman gibun nappeuji anatta.

My friend teased me as a joke, but I didn't feel bad.