Easy Korean Level 10 - Workbook 1

Exercise 1: Softening the Refusal

Rewrite the direct refusal into a softer, more polite refusal using the hints provided.

1. 내일 파티에 못 가요. (I can't go to the party tomorrow.) -> (Use: -ㄹ/을 것 같아요 + 어렵다) 내일 파티에 가는 것은 ____________________________________.

2. 그 일은 못 도와줍니다. (I cannot help with that work.) -> (Use: 마음은 굴뚝같지만) 도와드리고 싶은 ____________________________________, 제 일이 너무 많아서요.

Exercise 2: Business Korean

Translate the following polite business refusals into Korean.

1. I appreciate you saying that, but I have a prior engagement. (말씀은 감사하다, 선약이 있다) -> __________________________________________________, ____________________________________.

2. We will review it positively, but it is difficult to give a definite answer. (긍정적으로 검토하다, 확답을 드리기 어렵다) -> __________________________________________________만, ____________________________________.

Exercise 3: Cultural Context

Why is it common in Korean business culture to say "한번 생각해 보겠습니다" (I will think about it) instead of saying "No" directly? Write a short explanation.

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Answer Key

Exercise 1: 1. 내일 파티에 가는 것은 (좀) 어려울 것 같아요. 2. 도와드리고 싶은 마음은 굴뚝같지만, 제 일이 너무 많아서요.

Exercise 2: 1. 말씀은 감사하지만, 선약이 있어서요. (or 선약이 있습니다). 2. 긍정적으로 검토해 보겠습니다만, 확답을 드리기는 어렵습니다.

Exercise 3: Saying a direct "No" can be perceived as confrontational or rude, which damages "기분" (kibun/feelings) and harmony. Giving a vague refusal saves face for both parties.