이 꼬마 녀석
i kkoma nyeoseok
The English phrase "you brat" can be translated into Korean as 이 꼬마 녀석 (i kkoma nyeoseok).
이 꼬마 녀석 is used to describe a child who is behaving badly or is annoying. While the word 녀석 can be used as a derogatory term for a "rascal," in this specific combination, it is often used in a somewhat affectionate or lighthearted way by adults toward children rather than as a harsh insult.
How does it change in a sentence?
The phrase uses the demonstrative 이 (this) instead of a direct second-person pronoun to address the child. This is a common way in Korean to express a sense of familiarity or mild exasperation. Additionally, you may encounter the word 애 as a casual term for "kid" or "brat," and 야 as a way to say "hey" to grab someone's attention.
How do you pronounce it?
i kkoma nyeoseok
Did you know?
- While 꼬마 refers to a child, it is also used as a playful or teasing way to describe a full-grown adult who is exceptionally short.
- The term 녀석 is frequently used among close male friends to mean 'guy' or 'fellow', serving as a mark of intimacy rather than a put-down.
- Because Korean social hierarchy is so strict, the word 녀석 can shift from a fond term of endearment to a genuine insult based solely on the speaker's tone.
Examples in context
- 이 꼬마 녀석, 정말 말 안 듣네.i kkoma nyeoseok, jeongmal mal anneunne.This little brat really doesn't listen.
- 이 꼬마 녀석이 내 과자를 다 먹었어!i kkoma nyeoseogi nae gwajareul da meogeosseo!This little brat ate all my snacks!
- 이 꼬마 녀석, 장난이 너무 심하잖아.i kkoma nyeoseok, jangnani neomu simhajana.This little brat is playing too rough.
Example conversation
Subin is annoyed because Jihun is making a mess with his toys.
- 수빈 Su-bin지훈, 장난감 좀 빨리 치워!Jihun, jangnangam jom ppalli chiwo!Jihun, clean up your toys quickly!
- 지훈 Ji-hun싫어요, 더 놀 거예요!shireoyo, deo nol geoyeyo!I don't want to, I'm going to play more!
- 수빈 Su-bin정말, 이 꼬마 녀석이 계속 고집을 피우네.jeongmal, i kkoma nyeoseogi gyesok gojibeul piune.Seriously, this little brat keeps being stubborn.
- 지훈 Ji-hun히히, 못 잡겠지!hihi, mot japgetji!Hehe, you can't catch me!
