Meaning
별말씀을요
byeolmalsseumeul-yo
Don't mention it / You're welcome
Real Feeling
What Koreans really mean
This phrase is a very common and polite way to respond to gratitude or praise. It shows humility and consideration, typical of Korean communication. While it contains the informal honorific '-요', it's appropriate in many situations, from casual to somewhat formal interactions, but generally not in highly formal or business settings where something more deferential might be used. It implies that the speaker doesn't think what they did warrants such thanks or praise.
💬 Used in real life
• Said after someone thanks you for a small favor, like holding a door or sharing notes.
• Used when someone compliments your work, politely downplaying your effort.
How It's Used
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Similar Expressions
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Grammar Breakdown
Part by part — learn the structure, not just the meaning
별byeol-prefix/determiner
prefix/determiner
Means 'special', 'particular', or 'nothing much' when used with a negative.
말씀malsseumnoun (honorific)
noun (honorific)
The honorific form of '말' (mal), meaning 'words' or 'speech'.
-을-eulobject particle
object particle
Marks the preceding noun as the direct object of an implied verb.
-요-yohonorific suffix
honorific suffix
A polite, non-formal ending indicating respect towards the listener.
Tags
Korean expressions carry layers of meaning that direct translation misses. The real meaning lives in the emotion, context, and cultural moment.
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