가는 말이 고와야 오는 말이 곱다

ganeun mari gowa ya oneun mari gopda
proverbIntermediateproverb
What It Really Means
The way you speak should be kind so that the response you receive will be pleasant. This proverb emphasizes the importance of polite and respectful communication to ensure positive interactions.
Literal Meaning
The words you speak should be beautiful so that the words you receive will be beautiful.
Literal Breakdown
가는 말이the words you speak+고와야should be beautiful+오는 말이the words you receive+곱다are beautiful
Mental Image
The proverb evokes the image of a cycle of communication where the beauty of the words you speak influences the beauty of the words you receive in return.
When to Use
A teacher advises students to speak politely to their classmates to foster a positive and respectful classroom environment.
Cultural Note
This proverb reflects the traditional Korean value of respect and politeness in communication, which is deeply rooted in Confucian principles of harmony and mutual respect.
formalinformal

The way you speak should be kind so that the response you receive will be pleasant. This proverb emphasizes the importance of speaking politely and respectfully to ensure positive interactions.

친절하게 말하면 상대방도 친절하게 답해줄 거야.

If you speak kindly, the other person will respond kindly too.

고객에게 무례하게 말하면 좋은 평가를 받을 수 없다.

If you speak rudely to customers, you won't receive good reviews.

💡

This proverb is often used to encourage polite and respectful communication in both personal and professional settings.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Related Phrases

말이 고와야 듣는 말이 곱다proverb
If your words are kind, the words you hear in return will be kind.
말이 고와야 답이 곱다proverb
If your words are kind, the response will be kind.

💡Pro Tip

Politeness in Communication

Remember that the tone and words you use can significantly impact the response you receive. Always strive to be polite and respectful in your communication.

Gold Rule

Respectful Communication

In Korean culture, respectful and polite communication is highly valued. This proverb underscores the importance of treating others with kindness to foster positive relationships.

📖Word Origin

This proverb originates from traditional Korean wisdom, emphasizing the importance of polite and respectful speech in social interactions.

📝Usage Notes

This proverb is commonly used in situations where someone is about to speak or communicate with others, especially in formal or professional settings.

Word Breakdown

가는 말이
the words you speak
phrase
+
고와야
should be kind
verb
+
오는 말이
the words you receive
phrase
+
곱다
are pleasant
adjective
한영사전