정말 (jeong-mal, jeongmal)
‘정말’ (jeongmal) is a common Korean adverb used to express strong certainty or truthfulness.
Core meaning and shades learners miss.
‘정말’ is an adverb that emphasizes truthfulness or strong certainty about a fact or feeling.
Nuances
When to use
Everyday conversation, Expressing surprise, Conveying sincerity
In context
‘정말’ typically modifies adjectives, verbs, or entire sentences and is naturally used in both casual and formal contexts. It usually appears at the beginning or middle of a sentence for emphasis.
정말 고마워요.
jeong-mal go-ma-wo-yo., jeong mal go ma wo yo.
‘정말’ emphasizes ‘thank you’ to express sincerity.
그 사람 정말 멋있다!
geu sa-ram jeong-mal meos-iss-da!, geu sa ram jeong mal meos iss da!
‘정말’ emphasizes ‘cool’ to show admiration.
정말이야?
jeong-mal-i-ya?, jeong mal i ya?
‘정말’ is used in questions to ask about truthfulness.
나는 정말로 그 일을 했다.
na-neun jeong-mal-ro geu il-eul haess-da., na neun jeong mal ro geu il eul haess da.
‘정말로’ is a stronger form of ‘정말’ emphasizing truthfulness.
정말아니야.
jeong-mal-a-ni-ya., jeong mal a ni ya.
‘정말아니야’ lacks proper spacing, making it incorrect.
진짜 정말 좋아해.
jin-jja jeong-mal joh-a-hae., jin jja jeong mal joh a hae.
‘진짜’ and ‘정말’ together express strong affirmation.
What is the most appropriate meaning of ‘정말’?
Which sentence is correct?
What role does ‘정말’ mainly play in a sentence?
