Korean Dictionary
How to say "I'm on break" in Korean
“I'm on break” in Korean is 쉬고 있어요 (pronounced "Swigo isseoyo").
쉬고 있어요
Swigo isseoyo
Usage & Context
Letting someone know you're currently taking a break. 점심 시간이에요 (it's lunch time) is more specific. Often used to explain why you're not at your desk or available. Koreans typically have set break times that are respected in workplace culture.
Example Sentence
지금 전화 받기 어려워요, 쉬고 있어요.
It's hard to take calls now, I'm on break.
How to use 쉬고 있어요 naturally
Quick answer
The Korean word for “I'm on break” is 쉬고 있어요, romanized as Swigo isseoyo.
Usage tip
Check the politeness level before using this word. Korean greetings often change depending on age, relationship, and setting.
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 쉬고 있어요.
Pronunciation Guide
쉬고 (Shwi-go): "Shwi" like "shwee" in "sweet" but with a slightly more rounded 'wi' sound. "Go" like "go" in "go-go". 있어요 (Iss-eo-yo): "Iss" like "iss" in "hiss" but with a short, sharp 'i'. "Eo" like "uh" in "butter" or 'aw' in 'raw'. "Yo" like "yo-yo". The 'ss' in 있어요 is a tense, double 's' sound.
Formal & Casual Forms
Formal (존댓말)
쉬고 있습니다
Swigo isseumnida
A more formal and deferential way to say 'I am on break,' often used in formal settings or when speaking to superiors.
Casual (반말)
쉬고 있어
Swigo isseo
Used among close friends or to someone younger.
More Example Sentences
Explaining why you can't take a call during your break.
지금 전화 괜찮으세요? 아, 죄송해요. 쉬고 있어요.
Is a call okay right now? Oh, sorry. I'm on break.
Informing someone you're unavailable due to lunch break.
점심시간이라서 잠시 쉬고 있어요. 이따가 다시 올게요.
It's lunchtime, so I'm on a short break. I'll come back later.
Explaining a personal break due to fatigue.
너무 피곤해서 잠시 쉬고 있어요. 좀 나아지면 다시 일할게요.
I'm so tired, so I'm taking a short break. I'll work again when I feel a bit better.
Cultural Context
In Korean workplaces and schools, break times are generally respected. Saying '쉬고 있어요' is a clear and polite way to indicate unavailability without needing to give a lengthy explanation. It's understood that during this time, one is not expected to work or be disturbed. This phrase is practical and direct, reflecting a culture that values both hard work and designated periods of rest. It can also be used more generally to mean 'I'm resting' or 'I'm relaxing' at home.
Editorial note
We check greetings like 쉬고 있어요 for politeness and timing, since Korean greetings change with relationship, age, and setting.
Reviewed by Min-jung Park, Korean Language Teacher. Updated May 31, 2026. See our editorial standards.
Common Phrases
지금 쉬고 있어요.
I'm on break right now.
잠시 쉬고 있어요.
I'm on a short break.
저는 쉬고 있어요.
I am resting. (More general)
Related Expressions
잠시 쉬는 중이에요
Jamsi swineun jungieyo
I'm taking a short break.
점심 시간이에요
Jeomsim siganeieyo
It's lunchtime.
휴식 중입니다
Hyusik jungimnida
I am currently on a break (more formal/written).
퇴근했어요
Toegeunhaesseoyo
I've left work/finished work.
More Greetings Words
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