기분 좋다
gibun jota
The English phrase "it feels good" is translated into Korean as 기분 좋다 (gibun jota).
This phrase is used to express that one is in a positive state of mind or feeling happy.
What does it mean word for word?
The component 좋다 means "to be good".
Which one should you use?
기분 좋다 refers specifically to one's emotional mood or state of mind, rather than physical sensation. While 기분 좋다 refers to mood, 느낌이 좋다 is used when describing a physical sensation or a 'gut feeling'.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
There are different ways to say this depending on who you are talking to. The phrase 기분 좋아 is the casual, non-honorific way to say it to friends or people younger than you. The phrase 기분이 좋아요 is the standard polite way to express this to strangers or superiors.
How do you pronounce it?
gibun jota
Did you know?
- The word 기분 shares its root with the concept of qi or ki, the vital energy believed to flow through the body and universe in East Asian philosophy.
- In a professional setting, a subordinate might avoid saying 기분 좋아요 too enthusiastically to a boss. Overwhelmingly positive energy can sometimes be seen as lacking modesty or seriousness.
- While 기분 좋다 expresses happiness, Koreans often use a contrasting expression called 기분 나쁘다 to describe not just sadness but a feeling of being offended or insulted.
Examples in context
- 기분이 좋아서 오늘 하루를 즐길 수 있었어요.Because I felt good, I was able to enjoy my day.
- 날씨가 좋아서 기분 좋다.nalssiga joaseo gibun jotta.The weather is nice, so I feel good.
- 시험이 끝나서 정말 기분 좋다.siheomi kkeunnaseo jeongmal gibun jotta.The exams are over, so I feel really good.
- 새 신발을 신으니까 기분 좋다.sae sinbareul sinnikka gibun jotta.I feel good wearing my new shoes.
Example conversation
Minji and Hyunwoo are walking in a park.
- 민지 Min-ji현우 씨, 공원 공기가 정말 상쾌해요.Hyeonu ssi, gongwon gonggiga jeongmal sangkwaehaeyo.Hyunwoo, the park air is really refreshing.
- 현우 Hyeon-woo맞아요. 저도 지금 기분 좋다.majayo. jeodo jigeum gibun jota.You're right. I feel good right now too.
- 민지 Min-ji우리 조금 더 걸을까요?uri jogeum deo georeulkkayo?Shall we walk a bit more?
- 현우 Hyeon-woo좋아요. 같이 가요.joayo. gachi gayo.Sounds good. Let's go together.
