잘 먹었습니다
jal meogeotseumnida
In Korean, "the food was good" is expressed as 잘 먹었습니다 (jal meogeotseumnida).
The phrase 잘 먹었습니다 is a polite expression used specifically at the end of a meal to express gratitude to the person who prepared or provided the food.
What does it mean word for word?
Literally, the phrase translates to "I ate well".
How do you pronounce it?
jal meogeotseumnida
When do people say it?
This phrase is used to thank a host after finishing a meal.
Did you know?
- In some historical linguistic contexts, the word 잘 is considered an abbreviation of the word 자루 (jaru). This connection links the concept of 'well' to an ancient measurement or unit.
- In some historical contexts, expressions of gratitude after meals were linked to Confucian ideals of filial piety and respect for the provider's labor.
- The phrase functions as a social 'closing bracket' for a dining event. Once the words are spoken, the social interaction of the meal is considered officially concluded.
Examples in context
- 정말로 맛있는 음식이었어요.The food was really delicious
- 음식이 정말로 훌륭해요.The food was truly excellent
- 음식이 완전 맛있었어!The food was absolutely delicious!
- 진짜 맛있어!It's really delicious
- 정말 잘 먹었습니다.jeongmal jal meogeossseumnida.I really enjoyed the meal.
- 오늘 너무 잘 먹었습니다.oneul neomu jal meogeossseumnida.I ate very well today.
- 맛있게 잘 먹었습니다.masitge jal meogeossseumnida.I ate well and it was delicious.
Example conversation
Dohyeon and Seoyeon are finishing a meal at a restaurant.
- 도현 Do-hyeon서연 씨, 음식 정말 맛있네요.Seoyeon-ssi, eumsik jeongmal masitneyo.Seoyeon, the food is really delicious.
- 서연 Seo-yeon그쵸? 도현 씨 입맛에 맞다니 다행이에요.Geuchyo? Dohyeon-ssi immase matdani dahaengieyo.Right? I'm glad it suits your taste, Dohyeon.
- 도현 Do-hyeon네, 잘 먹었습니다.ne, jal meogeossseumnida.Yes, the food was good.
- 서연 Seo-yeon잘 드셨다니 저도 기뻐요.jal deusyeon-dani jeodo gippeoyo.I am happy that you enjoyed it.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries 잘, CC BY-SA 4.0.
