설마요
Introduction:
"설마요" (seol-ma-yo) is a phrase used to express disbelief or surprise, and it translates to "No way!" or "That can't be!" in English. It’s used when something seems too unlikely or hard to believe. Whether you’re reacting to surprising news, a shocking story, or a seemingly impossible situation, "설마요" conveys a mix of doubt and astonishment.
This phrase is commonly used in everyday conversations when you're taken aback by what someone has said or when you're questioning the plausibility of a situation.
More expressions (in Korean) with English translation:
- 설마 (seol-ma) - No way (informal)
- 말도 안 돼요 (mal-do an dwae-yo) - That doesn’t make sense / No way
- 정말요? (jeong-mal-yo?) - Really?
- 믿을 수 없어요 (mit-eul su eobs-eo-yo) - I can’t believe it
- 장난 아니죠? (jang-nan an-i-jyo?) - You’re joking, right?
- 거짓말이죠? (geo-jit-mal-i-jyo?) - It’s a lie, right?
- 진짜예요? (jin-jja-ye-yo?) - Is it true?
- 어떻게 그럴 수 있어요? (eo-tteoh-ge geu-reol su iss-eo-yo?) - How is that possible?
Using "설마요" in your Korean conversations is a fun way to show disbelief and keep the conversation lively. It adds an element of surprise and curiosity, making it perfect for those moments when you're unsure whether to believe what you've just heard!