말이 고우면 귀가 고운다

mari gourimyeon gwigaurunda
proverbIntermediate Kind words make people more receptiveproverb
What It Really Means
Speaking politely and kindly makes others more receptive and willing to listen.
Literal Meaning
If the words are kind, the ears become kind
Literal Breakdown
말이 고우면if the words are kind+귀가 고운다the ears become kind
Mental Image
The proverb uses the metaphor of 'ears becoming kind' to illustrate how polite and kind words can make others more receptive and willing to listen.
When to Use
A parent advising their child to speak politely to their teachers and friends, explaining that kind words will make others more willing to listen and respond positively.
Cultural Note
This proverb reflects the Korean cultural value of respect and politeness in communication. It is often used to teach children and young people the importance of speaking kindly and respectfully.
formal

This proverb emphasizes that speaking politely and kindly makes others more willing to listen and respond positively. It suggests that the way you communicate affects how others perceive and react to you.

말이 고우면 귀가 고운다. 부모님께서는 항상 이 말씀을 하시죠.

Kind words make people more receptive. My parents always say this.

말이 고우면 귀가 고운다. 고객을 대할 때는 특히 더 친절하게 말해야 한다.

Kind words make people more receptive. You should be especially polite when dealing with customers.

💡

This proverb is often used to encourage polite and respectful communication, especially in formal or professional settings.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Related Phrases

말이 고우면 귀가 고운다proverb
Kind words make people more receptive
말이 부드러우면 귀가 부드러워진다proverb
If your words are soft, your ears will be soft

💡Pro Tip

Cultural Context

This proverb reflects the Korean cultural value of respect and politeness in communication. It is often used to teach children and young people the importance of speaking kindly.

Gold Rule

Politeness in Communication

Always speak politely and kindly, as it makes others more willing to listen and respond positively.

📖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 to advise people to speak kindly and politely, as it suggests that the way you communicate affects how others perceive and respond to you.

Word Breakdown

말이 고우면
if the words are kind
phrase
+
귀가 고운다
the ears become kind
phrase
한영사전