그래 (geu-rae, geurae) · 응 (eung)
'그래' is mainly used to agree or permit what someone said, while '응' expresses casual or simple affirmation in friendly contexts.
One lane per word — no nested boxes, just the gist.
An affirmative expression used to agree with or permit someone's statement or proposal
When to use
formal agreement, giving permission, serious response to someone's statement
The nuance
Primarily used in polite or formal contexts to show agreement or permission respectfully.
A casual and simple affirmative expression, mostly used among close friends or family
When to use
casual simple affirmation, informal conversation, quick response
The nuance
Used in light conversations or among close relationships to express simple affirmation.
그래, 그렇게 하자.
geu-rae, geu-reoh-ge ha-ja., geu rae, geu reoh ge ha ja.
A natural formal agreement expression.
응, 알겠어.
eung, al-gess-eo., eung, al gess eo.
Appropriate for casual, simple affirmation among friends.
그래, 오늘 영화 보자.
geu-rae, o-neul yeong-hwa bo-ja., geu rae, o neul yeong hwa bo ja.
A clean, formal agreement to a proposal.
응, 오늘 회의는 몇 시야?
eung, o-neul hoe-ui-neun myeoch si-ya?, eung, o neul hoe ui neun myeoch si ya?
A casual response in friendly conversation.
그래, 내일 학교에 안 가.
geu-rae, nae-il hak-gyo-e an ga., geu rae, nae il hak gyo e an ga.
'그래' suits agreement or permission, not imperative sentences.
응, 네가 맞아.
eung, ne-ga maj-a., eung, ne ga maj a.
Too casual for serious agreement.
그래, 밥 먹었어?
geu-rae, bap meok-eoss-eo?, geu rae, bap meok eoss eo?
Unnatural as a simple answer to a question.
응, 네 말이 맞아.
eung, ne mal-i maj-a., eung, ne mal i maj a.
Natural casual agreement among close people.
What's a natural reply to "Want to watch a movie today?" from a close friend?
Which expression is appropriate to agree with a boss's proposal?
Which expression is mainly used for quick affirmation?
