beginner · freeInteractive lesson
반말 timing
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반말 drops polite 요: 가, 뭐 해? It is intimate or hierarchical speech, not “friendly English tone.”
Safe default: stay in 해요체 with new people, service staff, and unclear hierarchy.
Wait for an invitation (말 놔도 돼? / 편하게 말해요) or clear peer closeness before lowering.
Age, workplace rank, and setting matter more than how long you have chatted online.
Examples
말 놔도 돼요?
Is it okay if we speak casually?
네, 편하게 말해요.
Yes, speak comfortably.
어디 가?
Where are you going? (casual. Only when allowed)
Common mistakes
- Starting 반말 on day one of language exchange with an older partner.
- Mixing 요 and bare stems in the same short turn randomly.
Keep learning
Ready to level up 반말 timing?
Repair the pattern with corrected examples, then reinforce the right form through short review and speaking practice.
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