Common Mistake
What’s the Difference Between “아쉽다” and “아깝다” in Korean?
Learn the difference between 아쉽다 and 아깝다, two Korean words often translated as “what a shame” but used in different situations.
If you’re learning Korean, 아쉽다 and 아깝다 can be confusing because both can describe a feeling of disappointment. But Koreans don’t use them in exactly the same way.
What Does “아깝다” Mean?
아깝다 is usually used when something valuable is being wasted, lost, or missed.
For example, imagine you have leftover food that you are about to throw away.
You can also use it when you almost achieve something but miss it by a very small amount.
For example, if your friend almost wins a game:
The main feeling behind 아깝다 is that something had value or potential, but you lost it or couldn’t make the most of it.
What Does “아쉽다” Mean?
아쉽다 is more about feeling disappointed because something didn’t go the way you wanted.
For example, imagine your friend is visiting you, but they have to leave earlier than you expected.
You might say:
Nothing is being wasted here. You simply wish you had more time together.
You can also say:
“아쉽다” vs. “아깝다”
A simple way to remember the difference is:
For example:
But:
The situation can be similar, but the focus is different.
So next time you’re not sure which one to use, think about what you’re feeling:
- Was something wasted or did you almost get it? → 아깝다
- Do you simply wish things had gone differently? → 아쉽다
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What Does “아까비” Mean?
You might also hear Koreans say:
This is a cute and casual variation of 아깝다.
In everyday conversation, especially among friends, people sometimes use 아까비 more loosely when something almost worked out.
For example, you almost make a basketball shot, but the ball misses the basket.
It sounds playful and casual, so you wouldn’t normally use it in formal situations.