Playing a mean-spirited prank
짓궂은 장난
[A mean-spirited or mischievous prank]
Real Pattern
This phrase describes a prank that's more mean than funny. While 장난 just means 'joke' or 'prank,' adding 짓궂은 implies that the intention is to tease, annoy, or make someone uncomfortable.
Pattern Application
친구가 제 신발을 숨기는 짓궂은 장난을 쳤어요. — My friend played a mean prank by hiding my shoes.
어릴 때는 짓궂은 장난을 많이 했던 것 같아요. — I think I played a lot of mischievous pranks when I was young.
Tip
This isn't for light, fun teasing. Use it when a joke crosses a line and becomes genuinely bothersome.
짓궂은 장난
Is the food not to your liking?
음식이 입에 맞지 않니?
[Does the food not suit your taste?]
Real Pattern
This is a common question a host asks a guest to check if they're enjoying the meal. In the story, the fox says it sarcastically (걱정하는 척), but it's most often used with genuine concern. 입에 맞다 literally means "it fits the mouth," a natural way to say something suits your palate.
Pattern Application
음식이 입에 맞지 않으세요? 다른 걸 드릴까요? — Is the food not to your liking? Shall I get you something else?
김치가 처음이라 입에 맞지 않을 수도 있어요. — It's your first time trying kimchi, so it might not suit your taste.
Tip
To a friend, you can say 입에 맞아? (Is it good?). To answer, you can say 네, 입에 잘 맞아요 (Yes, it's delicious) or 아니요, 제 입에는 좀... (No, for my taste it's a bit...).
음식이 입에 맞지 않니?
Returning the favor
대접에 대한 보답이야
[This is to repay you for your hospitality.]
Real Pattern
This phrase is used when you are treating someone to return a past favor, especially when they treated you to a meal or hosted you. 대접 means 'hospitality' or 'treating someone,' and 보답 means 'repayment' or 'return.' It’s a key phrase in Korean culture of reciprocity.