Korean learner dictionary
괜히 meaning and pronunciation
gwaenhi · vainly; in vain; to no avail
NIKL-backed definitions, English glosses, pronunciation, examples, and learner-level context.
Dictionary entry
NIKL target code 30837Part of speech: 부사Pronunciation: 괜ː히Level: Intermediate · NIKL learner grade
- 1.
특별한 이유나 실속이 없게.
English: vainly; in vain; to no avail — Without substance or particular reason.
Examples
- 괜히 뿌듯하다.
- 괜히 이야기하다.
- 괜히 폐를 끼치다.
- 괜히 혼자 멋쩍다.
- 친구는 술에 취하면 괜히 심술을 부린다.
- 이럴 줄 알았으면 안 오는 건데 괜히 왔어요.
- Categories
- 인간 > 인지 행위
Active recall
Check whether you can produce it without looking.
Try to answer first. Reveal only after you have committed to an answer.
Card 1 of 2
How do you say “vainly; in vain; to no avail” in Korean?
Ready to level up 괜히?
Turn 괜히 from a quick lookup into memory with related lessons, review, sentences, and speaking practice.
Try a free Korean lessonNo account required for the demo. Cancel Pro anytime.