등신 (deungsin)

tɯŋɕininsult

What does 등신 (deungsin) mean? 등신 (deungsin) is a Korean moderate that translates to “moron / imbecile” in English.

fool without a spine

01

"moron / imbecile"

Mild-to-moderate insult for an idiot. Literally comparing someone to a wooden or stone statue that stands lifeless.

이 등신아. (I deungsin-a. - You imbecile.)

Context

  • Casual conversations with friends
  • Informal settings where profanity is accepted
  • Direct confrontation (use with caution)

Avoid

  • Professional or formal settings
  • Job interviews, meetings, or customer-facing situations

Cultural Context

Older vocabulary but widely used. Safe for television broadcast but still an insult. Used affectionately sometimes.

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