심술쟁이
simsuljaengi
The English phrase 'meanie' is translated into Korean as 심술쟁이 (simsuljaengi).
심술쟁이 is used to describe an unkind person or someone who has a bad temper.
Meaning: unkind person (noun)
What does it mean word for word?
The suffix –쟁이 is added to nouns to describe a person who habitually possesses a specific trait, often one that is negative or quirky.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
심술쟁이 is an informal and somewhat childish way to call someone a meanie.
How do you pronounce it?
simsuljaengi
Did you know?
- The word 심술 is sometimes associated with the traditional belief that one's internal organs or 'qi' are out of balance, causing an irritable personality.
- In Korean culture, the concept of 심술 is often linked to a 'twisted' or 'crooked' heart, suggesting the mean person's emotions are physically warped.
- Depending on the intonation, calling someone a 심술쟁이 can function as a 'cute' complaint, turning a criticism into a form of affection.
Examples in context
- 저 친구 진짜 비열한 사람이라서 걔랑은 안 놀아.I don't hang out with that friend because they're a truly despicable person.
- 그는 정말 심술쟁이야.geuneun jeongmal simsuljaengiya.He is a real meanie.
- 심술쟁이는 정말 싫어.simsuljaengineun jeongmal sileo.I really hate meanies.
- 너는 왜 이렇게 심술쟁이니?neoneun wae ireoke simsuljaengini?Why are you being such a meanie?
Example conversation
Two friends are talking about a grumpy child at the playground.
- 지훈 Ji-hun저 아이는 정말 심술쟁이구나.jeo aineun jeongmal simsuljaengiguna.That child is such a meanie.
- 서연 Seo-yeon맞아, 정말 심술쟁이야.maja, jeongmal simsuljaengiya.You're right, she is a total meanie.
- 지훈 Ji-hun서연아, 너도 심술쟁이처럼 굴지 마.seoyeona, neodo simsuljaengicheoreom gulji ma.Seoyeon, don't act like a meanie too.
- 서연 Seo-yeon난 심술쟁이가 아니야!nan simsuljaengiga aniya!I am not a meanie!
