먼저 하세요.

When to use

This is a polite gesture to allow someone else to go first, whether entering a room, using a facility, or in a line. It shows consideration for the other person.

Speech Level

The '-세요' ending indicates a polite command or request, showing respect to the listener.

How it works

This phrase is an imperative construction. The subject (you) and the implied action (go first) are understood.

• 먼저 (meonjeo): Adverb meaning 'first' or 'before'.
• 하다 (hada): Verb 'to do'. '먼저 하다' means 'to do first' or 'to go first'.
• -세요 (-seyo): Polite imperative ending.

Literal Meaning

Literally, it means 'Please do it first'. It's a concise way to offer precedence to someone else.

Notes

Politely let someone go ahead of you, common in doorways or queues.