Meaning and Usage
"마누라" is an informal and somewhat old-fashioned Korean word for "wife." It is commonly used by men when referring to their wives in casual or familiar contexts. While it is not offensive, it can sound a bit rough or colloquial, so it is less appropriate in formal or polite speech.
Nuance and Register
Using "마누라" often implies a close, familiar relationship but can sometimes carry a slightly humorous or teasing tone. Women typically do not use this term to refer to themselves or other women; it is mostly used by husbands.
Common Collocations
- 마누라가 (my wife + subject marker): to talk about one's wife as the subject.
- 마누라 덕분에 (thanks to my wife): expressing gratitude or credit.
- 내 마누라 (my wife): a very common phrase.
Avoiding Confusion
Do not confuse "마누라" with the more formal "아내" or the neutral "부인," which are more polite and appropriate in formal situations. Using "마누라" in formal contexts may sound disrespectful or too casual.
Cultural Note
The word reflects traditional Korean family roles and is often heard in older generations or in informal speech among men. Modern younger speakers may prefer more neutral terms like "아내."