Korean phrase
먼저 ~로 지내요. meon jeo ~ ro chi nae yo
Meaning
Let's remain ___ for now
When to use it
It suggests keeping the current relationship or role for now. It is a polite, gentle way to avoid changing the relationship yet, often when turning down a closer relationship.
Example dialogue
나랑 사귈래? na rang sa gwil lae
Do you want to go out with me?
미안해요, 저랑은 먼저 친구로 지내요. mi an hae yo cheo rang eun meon jeo chin gu ro chi nae yo
I'm sorry, let's remain friends for now.