Moderate

빌어먹을 (bireomeogeul) meaning in Korean

빌어먹을 · bireomeogeul

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'bireomeogeul' (빌어먹을) is a Korean slang term commonly used as a mild expletive similar to 'damn' or 'freaking' in English. It is frequently muttered to express frustration or annoyance when things do not go as planned.

Pronunciation

bireomeogeul

Intensity

Moderate

Frequency

Common

Categories

S-Lang

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Meaning

Literally meaning 'begging for food,' this expression is commonly used as an expletive similar to 'damn,' 'dammit,' or 'freaking' in English. It is primarily used to express frustration, annoyance, or mild anger when things do not go as planned. While it is a curse word, it is considered relatively mild compared to extreme profanities.

Korean editor note

직역하면 '구걸해서 먹을'이라는 뜻이지만, 주로 일이 뜻대로 되지 않거나 짜증이 날 때 내뱉는 욕설입니다. 상황이나 대상에 대한 불만과 분노를 나타내며 영어의 'damn'과 비슷한 뉘앙스를 가집니다. 다른 심한 욕설들에 비해서는 상대적으로 수위가 낮은 편입니다.

Nuance and usage context

Understanding when and how to use 빌어먹을 matters as much as knowing its meaning. Tone, social setting, and formality all affect how this word lands.

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Examples

빌어먹을, 또 차를 놓쳤네.

Damn it, I missed the bus again.

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