Level 5

별말씀

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Meaning and Usage

"별말씀" is a polite Korean expression used to modestly respond to thanks or compliments. It literally means "no special words" or "nothing to mention," implying that the favor or compliment is not a big deal.

Context and Register

This phrase is often used in formal or semi-formal situations to show humility and politeness. It is common in conversations where you want to downplay your contribution or avoid sounding boastful.

Common Collocations

  • 별말씀을요: a more complete and polite form, often used to respond to thanks.
  • 별말씀 아니에요: meaning "it's nothing," used to modestly reject praise.

Usage Tips

When someone thanks you or praises you, replying with "별말씀" or "별말씀을요" shows humility and good manners. Avoid using it in casual contexts where a simple "괜찮아요" or "아니에요" might be more natural.

Common Mistake

Learners sometimes confuse "별말씀" with expressions that mean "special words" or "important words." Remember, "별" here negates the importance, so it means "nothing special."

Example Sentences

친구가 고마워하자 나는 별말씀을요라고 대답했다.

Chinguga gomawoha-ja naneun byeolmalsseum-eul-yo-rago daedaphaetda.

When my friend thanked me, I replied, 'You're welcome.'

그는 칭찬을 받자 겸손하게 별말씀이라고 말했다.

Geuneun chingchan-eul batja gyeomsonhage byeolmalsseum-irago malhaetda.

When he received a compliment, he humbly said, 'Not at all.'

회의 중에 누군가 내 의견에 감사하자 나는 별말씀이라고 답했다.

Hoe-ui jung-e nugunga nae uigyeon-e gamsahaja naneun byeolmalsseum-irago dabhaetda.

During the meeting, when someone thanked me for my opinion, I replied, 'Not at all.'