If you’re an avid K-drama fan, I’m sure you have heard the word “daebak” before. Have you ever wondered how to use it? 

“Daebak” ( 대박 ) is a slang word used mainly by the younger generation. It roughly translates to “awesome” or “amazing”. It’s something you blurt out when something extraordinary happens that you weren’t expecting, or if something excites you so much. You also usually say this when you’re shocked or in awe by something or someone. 

Although origin of the word is debated upon, a plausible explanation can be deduced by breaking it down into two words. "Bak" (박) is an old word used for jackpot or hit and it is commonly used when playing card games and the like. “Dae” (대), on the other hand, means big. Together, it is loosely translated as “big jackpot” or "big hit". However, this term nowadays is used more casually in everyday conversations depicting awe, surprise, excitement, and joy depending on the context of the situation. 

For example: 

a.) “Daebak! My friend won the contest!” 

b.) “I didn’t study for the test, and I got a high score? Daebak!” 

c.) “Daebak, that fish is so big!”

For a guide on the pronunciation and further explanation on the usage of the word, here’s a video you can watch: