몸조심해
momjosimhae
In Korean, "take care of yourself" is expressed as 몸조심해 (momjosimhae).
This phrase is used to tell someone to stay healthy and safe, often when saying goodbye.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase 몸조심해 is composed of 몸 (body), 조심 (caution/care) and 해 (do), which literally translates to "be careful with your body".
Which one should you use?
You can use 잘 지내 to mean "take care/be well" or 건강하게 지내 to specifically mean "stay healthy" among friends. If a friend is leaving or going somewhere, you might say 조심히 다녀와 to mean "take care on your way back".
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
The form 몸조심해 is informal and should only be used with friends or people younger than you. For a polite version, use 몸조심하세요. In very formal situations, you can use 건강하시기 바랍니다, which means "I hope you stay healthy."
How does it change in a sentence?
The phrase 몸조심해 is in the imperative mood, functioning as a command or a warm wish.
How do you pronounce it?
momjosimhae
Did you know?
- While 몸조심해 is a warm wish, the word 조심 (caution) is also used to warn someone of immediate danger, like a car approaching. In these cases, it functions as a sharp 'Watch out!' rather than a gentle 'Take care'.
- The phrase 몸조심해 is frequently used in Korean dramas and films when a character is embarking on a dangerous mission or going to war. In these contexts, it functions more as 'Stay alive' than a casual 'Take care'.
- Because Korean is a high-context language, saying 몸조심해 to a close friend who is not actually in any danger can sometimes be interpreted as a joke or a teasing hint that they are being clumsy.
Examples in context
- 잘 지내십시오. 휴가를 즐기시고 안전하게 돌아오십시오Take care. Enjoy your vacation and come back safely.
- 몸조심해.momjoshimhae.Take care of yourself.
- 다음에 만날 때까지 몸조심해.daeume mannal ttaekkaji momjoshimhae.Take care of yourself until we meet next time.
Example conversation
Jihoon and Subin are saying goodbye at the subway station.
- 지훈 Ji-hun오늘 즐거웠어, 수빈아.oneul jeulgeowosseo, Subin-a.I had a good time today, Subin.
- 수빈 Su-bin나도, 조심히 들어가.nado, joshimi deureoga.Me too, get home safely.
- 지훈 Ji-hun응, 너도 몸조심해.eung, neodo momjoshimhae.Yeah, you take care of yourself too.
- 수빈 Su-bin고마워, 내일 연락할게!gomawo, naeil yeonrakhalge!Thanks, I'll contact you tomorrow!
