How to Say “Really” in Korean: 진짜 (jjinjja)
“Jjinjja” means “really” — both as a question (“For real?”) and an intensifier (“It’s really good”).
“Jjinjja” means “really” — both as a question (“For real?”) and an intensifier (“It’s really good”).
진짜 (jjinjja) — really / for real
How it feels and when to use it
It’s one of the most-used reaction words in casual speech. The slightly more formal twin is “jeongmal” (정말); both work, but “jjinjja” feels more spoken and emotional.
Politeness levels
- 진짜? (jjinjja?) — Casual (반말): with close friends and people younger than you
- 진짜요? (jjinjjayo?) — Polite (해요체): the safe everyday level for most people
- 정말입니까? (jeongmarimnikka?) — Formal (합쇼체): in business, announcements, and to elders
Real examples from native Korean
Here’s how native speakers actually use 진짜 in real Korean:
- 진짜로 — really
- 정말 살짝 — so just gently.
- 정말 별거 없죠? — That wasn't much, was it?
A common mistake to avoid
Tone changes the meaning — Rising tone = “Really?!” (surprise). Flat tone = “really” (emphasis). Drawn-out and annoyed, “jinjja…” can mean “ugh, come on.” Listen to how natives stretch it.
Related expressions
- 정말 (jeongmal) — really (softer)
- 대박 (daebak) — awesome / no way
Want to hear 진짜 spoken by real Koreans? Search it on Langle and watch it across dozens of real video clips.
Frequently asked questions
- What does “진짜” mean in Korean?
- “Jjinjja” means “really” — both as a question (“For real?”) and an intensifier (“It’s really good”). It’s romanized as “jjinjja.”
- Is “진짜” formal or casual?
- “진짜?” is casual (반말); “진짜요?” is polite (해요체); “정말입니까?” is formal (합쇼체). Match the level to who you’re talking to.
- How do you pronounce “진짜”?
- It’s pronounced “jjinjja.” Tone changes the meaning: Rising tone = “Really?!” (surprise). Flat tone = “really” (emphasis). Drawn-out and annoyed, “jinjja…” can mean “ugh, come on.” Listen to how natives stretch it.
- When should I use “진짜”?
- It’s one of the most-used reaction words in casual speech. The slightly more formal twin is “jeongmal” (정말); both work, but “jjinjja” feels more spoken and emotional.
- What can I say instead of “진짜”?
- Try “정말” (really (softer)) or “대박” (awesome / no way).