거절하다 vs 사양하다
Korean word comparison
Listen to 거절하다
Listen to 사양하다
| 거절하다 | 사양하다 |
|---|---|
geo-JEOL-hada verb | sayang-hada verb |
| to refuse or decline something | to politely decline or pass on something |
How they differ
사양하다 is narrower than 거절하다: it is mainly used when politely turning down an offer, favor, food, drink, or hospitality. It sounds more considerate and humble, while 거절하다 is broader and can be used for many kinds of refusals.
When to use each
When to use 거절하다: Use 거절하다 for a general refusal of requests, offers, invitations, or permission.
When to use 사양하다: Use 사양하다 when you are politely declining something offered to you, especially in social situations.
Side-by-side examples
- 나는 그 제안을 거절했다.
(I declined that offer.) - 나는 그 제안을 사양했다.
(I politely declined that offer.)
Register & nuance: 사양하다 is more polite and modest in tone than 거절하다, and it is common in courteous conversation.