말이 고와야 듣는 말이 곱다
말 한마디에 천냥 빚도 갚는다고 하잖아. 그러니 말이 고와야 듣는 말이 곱다는 말이지.
They say even a debt of a thousand nyang can be repaid by a single word. That's why kind words beget kind responses.
The way you speak to others influences how they respond to you; treating others with kindness encourages them to be kind in return.
상대방이 화를 내면 나도 화를 내기 쉽지만, 말이 고와야 듣는 말이 곱다는 말처럼 차분히 대화를 이끌어 나가야 해.
If the other person gets angry, it's easy for me to get angry too, but as the saying goes, 'kind words beget kind responses,' so I should calmly guide the conversation.
직장에서도 말이 고와야 듣는 말이 곱다는 말이 통한다. 부드러운 말투가 동료들과의 원활한 소통을 돕는다.
The saying 'kind words beget kind responses' holds true at work too. A soft tone of voice helps smooth communication with colleagues.
Often used to emphasize the importance of polite and considerate speech in social interactions.
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Pro Tip
Practical Application
Use this proverb to gently remind someone to speak kindly, especially in tense situations. For example, '말이 고와야 듣는 말이 곱다는 말이 있어. 조금만 부드럽게 말해 볼래?' ('There's a saying that kind words beget kind responses. Could you try speaking a little more gently?')
Gold Rule
Cultural Context
This proverb reflects Korea's cultural emphasis on harmony (화, hwa) and mutual respect. It aligns with the Confucian principle of reciprocity in relationships.
Word Origin
The proverb originates from traditional Korean wisdom emphasizing the reciprocity of speech. It reflects Confucian values of harmony and mutual respect in communication.
Usage Notes
Commonly used in both personal and professional contexts to encourage polite and respectful dialogue. Often cited in advice about conflict resolution or relationship-building.