눈치 (nunchi) translates to “tact” or “sense” in English, and it refers to the ability to read social cues, understand the atmosphere of a situation, and respond appropriately. Having good 눈치 means you can gauge other people’s feelings and adjust your behaviour accordingly to maintain harmony and avoid awkwardness.
How to Use 눈치
Describing Someone’s Social Skills:
- A: 지민이 정말 눈치가 빠르다.
(Jimin is really good at reading the room.) - B: 응, 그래서 사람들이 다 좋아해.
(Yeah, that’s why everyone likes him.)
Discussing a Situation:
- A: 회의 중에 너무 말을 많이 하면 안 돼.
(You shouldn’t talk too much during the meeting.) - B: 알겠어. 눈치 보면서 적당히 할게.
(Got it. I’ll be mindful of the situation and speak appropriately.)
In Everyday Conversation:
- A: 미안, 내가 너무 신경 쓰지 못했어.
(Sorry, I wasn’t attentive enough.) - B: 괜찮아, 눈치가 없어서 미안해 하지 마.
(It’s okay, don’t worry about not having enough nunchi.)
