What it means
To delay deliberately, to take an unnecessarily long time before doing or saying something, or to keep someone waiting for an answer. Often used when someone builds unnecessary suspense or is being indecisive.
Nuance & when to use
Has a mildly negative tone — implies the person is being deliberately slow or is keeping others waiting. Can also describe the frustration of waiting.
⚠ Common mistake
Confusing with 기다리다 (to wait). 뜸들이다 means the actor is deliberately slow, while 기다리다 is the experience of the person waiting.
Example sentences
See also
FAQ
When is this used?
Has a mildly negative tone — implies the person is being deliberately slow or is keeping others waiting. Can also describe the frustration of waiting.
What's a common mistake?
Confusing with 기다리다 (to wait). 뜸들이다 means the actor is deliberately slow, while 기다리다 is the experience of the person waiting.
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