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말이 거칠면 답도 거칠다

mari geochilmyeon dapdo geochilda
proverb★Intermediate— rude responses invite rude replies◆proverb
◆ What It Really Means
Rude or harsh language will elicit similarly rude responses, emphasizing the importance of polite communication.
¶ Literal Meaning
If one's words are rude, the reply will also be rude.
Literal Breakdown
말이 거칠면if one's words are rough+답도 거칠다the reply will also be rough
◇ Mental Image
The proverb paints a picture of a cycle of rudeness, where harsh words lead to harsh replies, creating a negative feedback loop.
◈ When to Use
A person is advised to speak politely to avoid escalating a conflict, as rude words will likely provoke rude responses.
◉ Cultural Note
This proverb reflects traditional Korean values of respect and harmony in social interactions, emphasizing the importance of polite communication to maintain positive relationships.
informal

A proverb emphasizing that rude or harsh language will elicit similarly rude responses, highlighting the importance of polite communication.

친구가 나를 무시하는 말투로 말해서 화가 났지만, '말이 거칠면 답도 거칠다'고 생각하며 참았다.

I was angry because my friend spoke to me in a dismissive tone, but I held back thinking 'rude words invite rude replies.'

💡

This proverb is often used to advise against responding to rudeness with more rudeness, encouraging self-control and polite communication.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Related Phrases

말이 부드러우면 답도 부드럽다proverb
Kind words invite kind replies
말이 예의 바르면 답도 예의 바르다proverb
Polite words invite polite replies

💡Pro Tip

Usage Context

This proverb is often used to advise against responding to rudeness with more rudeness, encouraging self-control and polite communication.

⚡Gold Rule

Polite Communication

Always respond to rudeness with politeness to maintain harmony in social interactions.

📖Word Origin

The proverb originates from traditional Korean wisdom emphasizing the importance of polite and respectful communication in social interactions.

📝Usage Notes

This proverb is commonly used in both formal and informal contexts to advise against escalating conflicts through rude language. It is often used to encourage self-control and polite responses.

Word Breakdown

말이 거칠면
if one's words are rude
phrase
+
답도 거칠다
the reply will also be rude
phrase
한영사전

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