은 좀

as for [topic], a little; often softens a question or request

→ 은

phrase Common #2,036

as for [topic], a little; often softens a question or request 은 marks the preceding noun as the topic, while 좀 can mean “a little” or soften what follows. The natural English translation depends on context.

KO: 건강은 좀 어떠세요?

EN: How is your health?

장천은 좀 어떻소?

How about Jangcheon?

— 영웅 (2002)

지금 상황은 좀 어떻습니까?

How are things right now?

— Good News (2025)

그 모델은 좀 힘든데 얘, 그런 거 진짜 잘해요

That model is a bit difficult, but this one is really good at that kind of thing.

— 마더 (2009)

내가 기억하는 거 랑은 좀 다르네.

It's a bit different from what I remember.

— 씨너스: 죄인들 (2025)

나도 대화 좋아하는데 잠깐은 좀 닥쳐 줄래?

I like chatting too, but could you shut up for a minute?

— 제5원소 (1997)

호텔은 좀 나중에 가고

Let's go to the hotel a little later.

— 여정 (1955)

네 의견은 좀 구닥다리 야.

Your opinion is a bit old-fashioned.