통통이
tongtongi
In Korean, "chubs" is translated as 통통이 (tongtongi).
The term is an affectionate or cute nickname used for someone who is slightly plump.
Which one should you use?
While 통통이 is a general nickname for someone slightly plump, 볼살왕 is a playful, informal way to affectionately refer to someone specifically as the "King/Queen of chubby cheeks."
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
통통이 is an informal and affectionate nickname used primarily among close friends or towards children. Similarly, 볼살왕 is also an informal and playful term.
How do you pronounce it?
tongtongi
Did you know?
- The root 통통 is an ideophone, a type of word that mimics a sensory feeling. In this case, it suggests the bouncy, elastic sensation of poking something plump.
- While in English 'chubby' can sometimes be sensitive, calling a child 통통이 in Korea is almost always seen as a sign of health and vitality.
- Using 통통이 with a romantic partner is a way of showing 'aegyo', the cultural practice of acting cute to express affection.
Examples in context
- 너 볼살왕이네! 참 귀엽다.You are the King/Queen of chubby cheeks! So cute.
- 우리 통통이, 너무 귀여워.uri tongtong-i, neomu gwiyeowo.Our little chubs is so cute.
Example conversation
Jieun is pinching Hyunwoo's cheeks playfully.
- 지은 Ji-eun현우는 완전 통통이네!Hyeon-uneun wanjeon tongtong-ine!Hyunwoo, you are such a little chubs!
- 현우 Hyeon-woo그렇게 부르지 마.geureoke bureuji ma.Don't call me that.
- 지은 Ji-eun하지만 통통이라서 더 좋아.hajiman tongtong-iraseo deo joa.But I like it because you're chubs.
- 현우 Hyeon-woo정말 어이가 없네.jeongmal eoiga eomne.You are unbelievable.
