뻔하다 ppeon-ha-da

Speakers use this to describe situations, facts, lies, or tricks that are entirely clear and apparent even without deep thought. It frequently appears as a noun modifier in fixed combinations such as 뻔한 거짓말 (obvious lies), 뻔한 말 (predictable words), 뻔한 사실 (obvious facts), 뻔한 속임수 (obvious tricks), and 뻔한 일 (obvious matters). In dialogue, it appears when speakers comment on recurring or easily anticipated outcomes, such as expecting a sports team to win or anticipating someone's opposition.

When used to dismiss a situation or story, it can convey a sense of boredom, cynicism, or quiet impatience with predictable human behavior.

◆ Imminent Danger — Speakers use this when describing a situation where a negative event had a very high possibility of occurring, though it was ultimately avoided. It regularly attaches to verbs via the structure '-ㄹ 뻔하다' to recount narrow escapes from physical danger. Example situations include nearly being hit by a car, falling down a cliff, or falling into water.

Can carry a sense of retrospective relief or lingering shock, as speakers look back on a high-stakes moment that turned out alright.

◆ Blatant Transparency — Speakers use this to describe situations, lies, or tricks that are completely transparent and clear even without careful consideration. It frequently pairs with nouns like 거짓말, 속임수, 말, and 사실. A dialogue exchange shows speakers applying it directly to obvious deceptions and transparent tactics that fail to fool anyone.

When applied to someone's behavior or excuses, it can carry an impatient or dismissive tone, implying that the speaker finds the deception rather insulting to their intelligence.