신경 꺼
sin-gyeong kkeo
The English phrase "none of your business" is translated into Korean as 신경 꺼 (sin-gyeong kkeo).
This is a blunt expression used to tell someone to stop interfering in or asking about a private matter.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of 신경 (nerve or attention) and 꺼 (the imperative form of "to turn off" or "to extinguish"), literally meaning "turn off your attention/nerves".
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
신경 꺼 is an informal and blunt way to say "none of your business". Depending on your tone, it can be perceived as rude or aggressive. In certain contexts, such as in literature or when someone is extremely angry, you may encounter the more forceful and commanding version 신경 꺼라.
How does it change in a sentence?
The form 신경 꺼라 serves as a more forceful, commanding version of the phrase.
How do you pronounce it?
sin-gyeong kkeo
Did you know?
- The word 신경 comes from the Chinese characters for 'spirit' and 'to pass', reflecting an early understanding of nerves as channels for spiritual energy.
- In Korean, using this phrase with a stranger or a superior would be considered an extreme social transgression, far more offensive than saying 'mind your own business' in English.
- The word 신경 is also the term used for 'nerve' in a medical context, such as the sciatic nerve, making the phrase sound like a strange anatomical command.
Example conversation
A tense moment between two friends when one asks a personal question.
- 지은 Ji-eun너 요즘 누구 만나?neo yojeum nugu mann-a?Who are you seeing these days?
- 도현 Do-hyeon그건 신경 꺼.geugeon singyeong kkeo.That's none of your business.
- 지은 Ji-eun도현아, 왜 이렇게 화를 내?dohyeona, wae ireoke hwareul nae?Dohyun, why are you getting so angry?
- 도현 Do-hyeon그냥 신경 좀 꺼 줘.geunyang singyeong jom kkeo jwo.Just mind your own business.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries 꺼, 신경, CC BY-SA 4.0.
