꼬마
kkoma[k͈o̞ma̠]
The English phrase "kiddo" is translated into Korean as 꼬마 (kkoma).
꼬마 is a way to refer to a small child in an affectionate or casual manner, much like the English terms "kiddo" or "little one".
Meaning: child (noun)
Which one should you use?
While 꼬마 is used for children, it is not used to refer to adults even if they are acting childishly. Using it for an adult would be seen as highly condescending or insulting.
How do you pronounce it?
kkoma
Did you know?
- The word 꼬마 is often used as a modifier for small versions of things, such as 꼬마 토마토 for cherry tomatoes.
- In many Korean children's shows, the term 꼬마 is often paired with the word 선생님 (teacher) to create the endearing title 꼬마 선생님, used to describe a child who is acting particularly wise or responsible.
- The term 꼬마 is frequently combined with ghost to create 꼬마 귀신, a common trope for small, mischievous spirits in Korean folklore and media.
Examples in context
- 저 꼬마는 정말 귀여워요.jeo kkoma-neun jeongmal gwiyewoyo.That kiddo is really cute.
- 꼬마가 길을 잃었어요.kkoma-ga gil-eul il-eosseoyo.The kiddo lost his way.
- 꼬마의 신발이 너무 커요.kkoma-ui sinbal-i neomu keoyo.The kiddo's shoes are too big.
Example conversation
A man and a woman are watching a child play at a park.
- 서연 Seo-yeon현우 씨, 저 꼬마 좀 보세요.Hyeonu ssi, jeo kkoma jom boseyo.Hyeonu, look at that kiddo.
- 현우 Hyeon-woo정말 활발한 꼬마네요.Jeongmal hwalbalhan kkoma-neyo.He is a very active kiddo.
- 서연 Seo-yeon웃는 모습이 참 예뻐요.Un-neun moseup-i cham yeppeoyo.The way he smiles is so pretty.
- 현우 Hyeon-woo맞아요, 정말 사랑스럽네요.Majayo, jeongmal sarangseureopneyo.You're right, he is so lovely.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry 꼬마, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
