닿을 듯 말 듯

1. 본문

"닿을 듯 말 듯" is a Korean phrase that literally translates to "as if it will touch, but not touch." It describes something that is almost within reach, but not quite, or a situation that is on the verge of happening but hasn't yet. Here's a breakdown of the meaning and some examples:
Meaning:

• Barely, almost, just about: The phrase expresses the idea of something being very close to happening, but not actually occurring. It implies a sense of anticipation or uncertainty.
• On the verge of: It can describe a situation that is about to happen, but hasn't happened yet.
• Figurative meaning: It can be used figuratively to mean "running into each other, on the verge of getting to know each other".

• The phrase uses the construction "-(으)ㄹ 듯 말 듯" which combines a verb with "듯" (meaning "as if" or "like") and "말다" (meaning "to not do").
• "-ㄹ 듯 말 듯" is used with verbs that do not have a final consonant.

• Literal sense: "맑은 날에는 남산이 손이 닿을 듯 가깝게 보인다." (On a clear day, Namsan Mountain looks so close, as if you could touch it.)
• Figurative, almost happening "하늘을 보니까 비가 올 듯 말 듯 하네요." (Looking at the sky, it seems like it's about to rain, but not quite.)
• Unsure of the situation. "그는 웃을 듯 말 듯 한 표정으로 말했다." (He spoke with an expression that seemed like he might smile, but maybe not.)

• *닿을 듯 말 듯* is the title of a 2018 KBS2 drama special.
• It's also the title of a novel by INO.
• It can be found in song lyrics. For example, Baek Ji Woong has a song titled "닿을 듯 말 듯."