당연하지
dang-yeonhaji
The Korean word for "duh" is 당연하지 (dang-yeonhaji).
This phrase is used to indicate that something is obvious. Depending on your tone of voice, it can function as a helpful "of course" or a disdainful, sarcastic "duh".
Meaning: disdainful indication that something is obvious (intj)
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of the noun 당연 (certainty/naturalness) and the verb 하다 (to be/to do) in its informal conclusive form.
Which one should you use?
While it can mean 'of course' in a helpful way, the tone of voice determines if it functions as a sarcastic 'duh'.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
당연하지 is used in casual speech with friends or people younger than you. To say "of course" or "obviously" more politely to a stranger or superior, change the ending to 당연하죠.
How do you pronounce it?
dang-yeonhaji
Did you know?
- The root 당연 shares its Chinese characters with concepts of 'natural necessity', meaning the 'duh' feeling is tied to the laws of nature.
- While 당연하지 is used for obvious facts, Koreans use 말해 뭐해 (literally 'why even say it') as a more idiomatic way to express the same 'duh' sentiment.
- Using 당연하지 to a boss or teacher, even if you are trying to be helpful, can be perceived as arrogant because it implies the other person should have already known.
Examples in context
- 나비가 날 수 있는 건 당연하죠.It's obvious that butterflies can fly.
- 그건 당연하지.geugeon dangyeonhaji.That's obvious.
Example conversation
Two friends are talking about a common fact.
- 지은 Ji-eun민준아, 내일 시험이지?Minjun-a, naeil siheom-iji?Minjun, there is an exam tomorrow, right?
- 민준 Min-jun당연하지!dangyeonhaji!Duh!
- 지은 Ji-eun너무 당연한 걸 물어봤네.neomu dangyeonhan geol mureobwanne.I asked something so obvious.
- 민준 Min-jun깜빡했나 보네.kkambakhaetna bone.You must have forgotten.
