Korean Dictionary
How to say "Argument" in Korean
“Argument” in Korean is 싸움 (pronounced "ssaum").
싸움
ssaum
Usage & Context
A disagreement or conflict between people. Arguments are a natural part of relationships in Korean culture, often resolved through discussion and compromise.
Example Sentence
우리는 어제 싸웠어.
We had an argument yesterday.
How to use 싸움 naturally
Quick answer
The Korean word for “Argument” is 싸움, romanized as ssaum.
Usage tip
Relationship words can sound too direct if the social context is wrong. Check the age, closeness, and formality before using it.
Common mistake
Do not rely only on the English meaning. Read the Korean example sentence and notice the particles, word order, and politeness level around 싸움.
Pronunciation Guide
The first syllable, '싸' (ssa), is a tense, double 's' sound, like saying 'ss-ah' quickly and sharply. The second syllable, '움' (um), rhymes with 'bum' but with a slightly more open 'u' sound, similar to 'uhm'.
More Example Sentences
Observing a common occurrence within families.
형제들 간의 싸움은 흔한 일이다.
Arguments between siblings are common.
Recounting a minor disagreement with a friend.
어제 친구랑 사소한 일로 싸움이 붙었어.
I got into a small argument with my friend yesterday over something trivial.
Setting boundaries or giving advice about conflict resolution.
말싸움은 괜찮지만, 몸싸움은 안 돼.
Verbal arguments are okay, but physical fights are not.
Cultural Context
While 싸움 (ssaum) generally refers to a fight or argument, Koreans often distinguish between a verbal argument (말싸움, malssaum) and a physical fight (몸싸움, momssaum). In K-dramas, dramatic verbal confrontations are common, often leading to tears or shouting, but physical fights are usually reserved for more intense, often male-dominated, conflicts. Resolving 싸움 is crucial for maintaining '우리' (uri) — the sense of collective identity and harmony.
Editorial note
We check relationship words like 싸움 against age, closeness, and politeness rules, because a literal English match often misses the social meaning.
Reviewed by Min-jung Park, Korean Language Teacher. Updated May 31, 2026. See our editorial standards.
Common Phrases
싸움 걸지 마.
Don't pick a fight.
싸움 구경.
Watching a fight (often used for drama/spectacle)
싸움이 나다.
A fight breaks out.
Related Expressions
말싸움
malssaum
Verbal argument
몸싸움
momssaum
Physical fight
다툼
datum
Quarrel/Dispute (slightly softer than 싸움)
싸우다
ssauda
To fight/argue (verb form)
More Relationships Words
Master Korean with AI-Powered Learning
Practice Argument and 10,000+ words with native pronunciation and AI conversation.
