-(으)나 마나 — it's no use, there's no point in, don't bother

This expression is used when doing the preceding action is of no value or use.

In other words, the result would be the same regardless of whether the action is performed.

When stated, the result is expressed as a strong, almost definite supposition.

The strong supposition is usually based on general common sense knowledge or on the consideration of someone's usual or habitual actions. This expression is used with verbs only.'

Details

1. This expression is not used often with verbs having a negative connotation, such as 실망하다, 잊어버리다, and 잃어버리다.

실망하나 마나 그 사람을 안 만날 거 예요. ✕

잊어버리나 마나 그 사람 이름을 기억 못 해요. ✕

2. The negative particles 안 and 못 cannot be used in front of -(으)나 마나.

안 먹으나 마나 배가 고프기는 마찬가지일 거예요. ✕

3. This expression can also be used in the form of -(으)나 마나예요.

마크 씨에게 그 이야기를 해도 안 들을 거예요. 하나 마나예요.

Mark won't listen to you even if you tell him that. It's no use (even trying).

Kimchi Reader

Express that doing something will not change the result; it's pointless to do it.