Korean word

글쎄

Pronunciation

Romanizationkeulsse

Meaning

  • interjectionwell

Example

글쎄, 잘 모르겠어.keul sse chal mo reu ge sseo

Well, I don't know.

Illustration for 글쎄 (well)

More examples

글쎄요, 지금은 확답하기 어려워요.keul sse yo chi geu meun hwak tta pa gi eo ryeo wo yo

Well, it is hard to give a definite answer right now.

Core concept

A spoken pause that leaves an answer open when the speaker cannot give a firm answer.

Common phrases

  • 글쎄요keul sse yo

    well

Similar words

글쎄요keulsseyo: Shows polite hesitation when a quick or certain reply is difficult.
음eum: Marks a brief pause while a thought is being formed.

Definition in Korean

무엇이라고 확실히 말하기 어려울 때 쓰는, 망설임이나 의구심을 나타내는 감탄사.mu eo si ra go hwak ssil hi mal ha gi eo ryeo ul ttae sseu neun mang seo ri mi na ui gu si meul na ta nae neun kam tan sa

Word origin

The exact origin of 글쎄 (geulsse, "well") is uncertain, so its modern conversational use is the safest memory guide.

Usage tips

  • English speakers can hear 글쎄 (geulsse, "well") as a soft pause rather than a clear yes, and its tone can suggest doubt or playful teasing.

Other meanings

  • maybeinterjection

Word lists with this word