아 맞다
a matda
The English phrase "oh yeah" can be expressed in Korean as 아 맞다 (a matda).
The phrase 아 맞다 is used specifically when a realization occurs or when you suddenly remember something you had previously forgotten.
What does it mean word for word?
This phrase is composed of the exclamation 아 (ah) and the verb 맞다 (to be correct/right).
Which one should you use?
While 아 맞다 is used for sudden realization, the informal phrase 그러네! can be used to express agreement or understanding. If you want to say "Yes, that's right!" in a formal situation, use 네, 맞아요! instead.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
The form 아 맞다 is casual and should only be used with friends or people younger than you. For a formal way to say "Yes, that's right!", use 네, 맞아요!
How do you pronounce it?
a matda
Did you know?
- The word 맞다 is used not only for things that are 'correct' but also to describe being hit or struck by an object.
- In Korean, 맞다 can be used to describe a piece of clothing or a pair of shoes that fits perfectly.
- The verb 맞다 was documented as early as 1447 in the Seokbo sangjeol, a text designed to explain the life of Buddha.
Examples in context
- 네, 그럼요!Yes, that's right!
- 아 맞다, 오늘 비 온다.a matda, oneul bi onda.Oh yeah, it's going to rain today.
- 아 맞다, 숙제 해야 돼.a matda, sukje haeya dwae.Oh yeah, I have to do my homework.
- 아 맞다, 가스 불 껐나?a matda, gaseu bul kkeonna?Oh yeah, did I turn off the gas?
Example conversation
Minji and Minjun are walking home together.
- 민지 Min-ji오늘 날씨 진짜 좋다.oneul nalssi jinjja jota.The weather is really nice today.
- 민준 Min-jun그러게, 산책하기 딱이다.geureoge, sanchaek-hagi ttak-ida.Right, it's perfect for a walk.
- 민지 Min-ji아 맞다, 민준아, 너 약속 없었어?a matda, Minjun-a, neo yaksok eopseosseo?Oh yeah, Minjun, didn't you have an appointment?
- 민준 Min-jun아, 맞다! 깜빡했어.a, matda! kkamppak-haesseo.Oh yeah! I totally forgot.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries 맞다, 아, CC BY-SA 4.0.
