자상하다
자상하다 في 30 ثانية
- 자상하다 means being thoughtful and detailed in a caring way.
- It is a high-level compliment for family, partners, and teachers.
- It combines 'emotional warmth' with 'meticulous attention to small things.'
- Commonly translated as 'considerate,' 'attentive,' or 'thoroughly kind.'
The Korean adjective 자상하다 (jasang-hada) is a multifaceted term that English speakers often translate as 'thoughtful,' 'considerate,' or 'detailed.' However, its essence goes deeper than a simple act of kindness. It describes a personality trait or an action characterized by a meticulous attention to detail combined with a warm, caring heart. When you call someone 자상한 사람 (a thoughtful person), you are suggesting that they notice the small things that others might overlook and take proactive steps to address them. This word is frequently used in domestic contexts, such as describing a father who listens patiently to his children or a husband who remembers his wife's specific preferences without being asked.
- Emotional Nuance
- Unlike '친절하다' (kind), which can be a surface-level politeness shown to strangers, '자상하다' implies a deeper intimacy and an investment of time and effort into understanding another person's needs.
우리 아버지는 성격이 매우 자상하셔서 가족들을 잘 챙겨주세요. (My father is very thoughtful, so he takes good care of the family.)
Beyond personality, the word also applies to the way information is delivered. If a teacher explains a difficult concept by breaking it down into tiny, understandable parts, their explanation is 자상하다. In this context, it aligns more with 'detailed' or 'thorough.' It suggests that the speaker is being considerate of the listener's potential confusion and is taking the extra steps to ensure complete understanding. This duality—being both emotionally attentive and intellectually detailed—makes it a high-praise word in Korean society, where harmony and interpersonal awareness are highly valued.
- Common Subjects
- It is most commonly used to describe fathers, husbands, teachers, and doctors—roles where both care and detailed attention are paramount.
의사 선생님이 증상에 대해 자상하게 설명해 주셨어요. (The doctor explained the symptoms in a detailed and thoughtful manner.)
In modern Korean culture, the 'ideal man' is often described as 자상한 남성. This reflects a shift away from traditional patriarchal stoicism toward a more emotionally available and attentive masculinity. A man who cooks, helps with housework, and listens to his partner's daily worries is the epitome of being 자상하다. It is a word that bridges the gap between 'meticulous' and 'warm-hearted,' creating a unique semantic space that English usually requires multiple words to cover.
- Social Context
- When you use this word to describe a superior at work, it suggests they are not just a boss but a mentor who looks after their subordinates' personal growth and well-being.
그분은 후배들에게 항상 자상한 조언을 아끼지 않으십니다. (That person never withholds thoughtful advice for the juniors.)
질문에 자상하게 대답해 주셔서 감사합니다. (Thank you for answering my questions so thoroughly/thoughtfully.)
Using 자상하다 correctly requires understanding its grammatical flexibility as a descriptive verb (adjective). It can modify nouns directly, act as the main predicate of a sentence, or be transformed into an adverb to describe how an action is performed. The most common form you will encounter is the noun-modifying form 자상한. This is used to attribute the quality of thoughtfulness to a specific person. For example, '자상한 남편' (a thoughtful husband) or '자상한 설명' (a detailed explanation).
- Predicate Usage
- When used at the end of a sentence, it follows standard conjugation rules: 자상해요 (polite), 자상합니다 (formal), or 자상해 (informal). It describes the subject's inherent nature or current behavior.
제 남자친구는 정말 자상해요. (My boyfriend is really thoughtful/considerate.)
Another powerful way to use this word is in its adverbial form, 자상하게. This is typically paired with verbs like '말하다' (to speak), '설명하다' (to explain), or '챙겨주다' (to take care of). It describes the *manner* in which someone is acting. If you say someone is '자상하게 챙겨준다,' you are highlighting the meticulous and caring way they are looking after you. This is a common way to express appreciation for someone's effort and attention to detail.
- Comparison with '친절하게'
- While '친절하게' means 'kindly,' '자상하게' implies a more personalized, detailed level of care. A clerk is '친절' to everyone, but a friend is '자상' specifically to you.
선생님께서 문제를 자상하게 풀어서 설명해 주셨다. (The teacher solved and explained the problem in a detailed/thoughtful way.)
In complex sentences, you can use the connective form 자상하고 to list multiple qualities. For instance, '그는 자상하고 똑똑하다' (He is thoughtful and smart). The word is also frequently used with the honorific suffix -시- when talking about elders or people in higher positions, resulting in 자상하신 or 자상하세요. This adds a layer of respect to the compliment, making it very appropriate for describing parents, grandparents, or respected mentors.
- Negative Form
- To say someone is not thoughtful, you use '자상하지 않다.' This often implies the person is blunt, indifferent, or careless about details.
그는 무뚝뚝해 보이지만 사실은 아주 자상한 사람이에요. (He looks blunt/curt, but he is actually a very thoughtful person.)
이 안내서는 초보자도 알기 쉽게 자상하게 쓰여 있다. (This guidebook is written in a detailed/thoughtful way so that even beginners can understand it.)
If you are a fan of Korean dramas (K-Dramas), you have likely heard 자상하다 hundreds of times. It is the gold standard for describing the 'male lead' character who is supportive, emotionally intelligent, and attentive to the heroine's needs. In these stories, a character might say, '어쩜 그렇게 자상해요?' (How can you be so thoughtful?), highlighting a moment where the man does something small but meaningful, like bringing a blanket or remembering a favorite food. It is the linguistic antithesis of the 'bad boy' or 'cold' archetype.
- Real-Life Conversations
- In daily life, you'll hear it often when mothers talk about their sons-in-law or when friends discuss their ideal types. It's a high-value compliment in matchmaking and dating.
"우리 사위는 성격이 자상해서 딸을 참 잘 챙겨줘요." (My son-in-law is so thoughtful that he takes great care of my daughter.)
In the workplace, 자상하다 is used to describe a boss or a senior colleague (선배) who doesn't just give orders but takes the time to explain the rationale behind tasks and checks in on the well-being of the team. During performance reviews or casual team dinners (회식), a subordinate might thank a senior by saying, '항상 자상하게 지도해 주셔서 감사합니다' (Thank you for always guiding me so thoughtfully/thoroughly). It suggests a mentorship style that is nurturing rather than strictly hierarchical.
- Media and Literature
- Biographies and news articles often use this word to describe public figures who show a human, caring side to the public or their families.
그 영화배우는 팬들에게 자상하기로 유명합니다. (That actor is famous for being thoughtful/attentive toward his fans.)
You will also encounter this word in educational settings. When students write letters of appreciation to their teachers on Teacher's Day (스승의 날), they almost always include the word 자상하다. It captures the essence of a teacher who doesn't just lecture but cares about each student's individual progress. Similarly, in parenting books and blogs, '자상한 부모' (thoughtful parents) is a recurring theme, emphasizing the importance of detailed emotional connection with children.
- Nuance in Variety Shows
- In Korean reality shows like 'The Return of Superman,' celebrity dads are often praised for their '자상함' (thoughtfulness) when they handle difficult parenting situations with patience and detail.
아이의 눈높이에 맞춰 자상하게 이야기하는 모습이 인상적이었어요. (It was impressive to see him talking thoughtfully/patiently at the child's eye level.)
할아버지께서는 어린 시절 저에게 항상 자상하셨습니다. (My grandfather was always thoughtful/kind to me during my childhood.)
One of the most frequent mistakes English speakers make is using 자상하다 as a direct synonym for 'kind' (친절하다) in every situation. While they overlap, 친절하다 is often about social etiquette and being nice to strangers, whereas 자상하다 implies a deeper, more detailed level of care usually reserved for people you have a relationship with. If a waiter is polite, he is 친절하다. If your husband notices you are tired and prepares a warm foot bath without you asking, he is 자상하다. Using 자상하다 for a random service worker might sound slightly too intimate or heavy.
- Confusing with '꼼꼼하다'
- '꼼꼼하다' means meticulous or thorough in a task-oriented way. '자상하다' includes this thoroughness but adds a layer of emotional warmth. You can be '꼼꼼' about your taxes, but you are '자상' when explaining those taxes to someone else to help them.
틀린 예: 그 점원은 매우 자상해서 좋았어요. (Incorrect context: That clerk was very 'thoughtful' - better to use 친절해서.)
Another common error is applying 자상하다 to objects or general situations. It is primarily a human-centric word. You wouldn't say a 'thoughtful movie' or a 'thoughtful weather.' If you want to describe a movie that is detailed or well-made, you might use '섬세하다' (delicate/detailed) or '치밀하다' (meticulous). 자상하다 requires a 'source' of care, usually a person, or the direct output of a person's caring effort (like a letter or an explanation).
- Gender Neutrality
- While often used for men in modern media, it is not a gendered word. Mothers, sisters, and female teachers can all be '자상하다.' However, for women, words like '다정하다' (sweet/warm) are also very common.
맞는 예: 선생님은 학생들의 고민을 자상하게 들어주신다. (Correct: The teacher thoughtfully listens to the students' worries.)
Finally, learners sometimes over-rely on the dictionary definition of 'detailed.' If you are describing a technical manual that is just full of facts, 상세하다 or 자세하다 are better choices. 자상하다 should be reserved for when the 'details' are provided with the intent of being helpful or kind to the recipient. It’s the difference between a list of ingredients (자세하다) and a recipe written with helpful tips for a beginner (자상하다).
- Overusing '자상하게'
- In some contexts, '자상하게' can sound a bit repetitive if used for every kind act. Try mixing it with '세심하게' (attentively) or '정성껏' (with all one's heart).
그는 자상하게 길을 가르쳐 주었다. (He thoughtfully/detailedly showed me the way.)
어머니는 아픈 나를 자상하게 간호해 주셨다. (My mother thoughtfully/carefully nursed me when I was sick.)
To truly master 자상하다, you must understand its neighbors in the Korean emotional vocabulary. There are several words that translate to 'kind' or 'thoughtful,' but each has a specific 'flavor.' Understanding these differences will help you sound more like a native speaker and allow you to describe people with greater precision.
- 자상하다 vs. 다정하다 (Dajeong-hada)
- '다정하다' focuses on warmth and affection (literally 'much affection'). It's about a sweet, loving vibe. '자상하다' focuses on the *actions* and *details* of that care. A '다정한' person gives you a warm hug; a '자상한' person notices you're cold and brings you a specific blanket you like.
그들은 매우 다정한 부부예요. (They are a very sweet/affectionate couple.)
Another close relative is 배려심(이) 있다 (baeryeosim-i itda), which means 'to have a spirit of consideration.' This is often used for social awareness—like not making noise because a neighbor is sleeping. 자상하다 is more active and personal. While 배려심 is often about *avoiding* bothering others, 자상함 is about *actively doing* something detailed to help them.
- 자상하다 vs. 친절하다 (Chinjeol-hada)
- '친절하다' is standard kindness/politeness. It is the 'default' word for being nice. '자상하다' is 'Level 2' kindness—it's kindness plus effort plus detail.
그는 배려심이 깊어서 항상 남을 먼저 생각한다. (He is very considerate, so he always thinks of others first.)
For technical contexts, you might use 상세하다 (sangse-hada) or 자세하다 (jase-hada). These both mean 'detailed.' If you are describing a map, a report, or a set of data, use these words. If you use 자상하다 for a report, it sounds like the report has a soul or was written by someone trying to be your friend. Use 상세하다 for professional documents and 자상하다 for personal explanations or caring advice.
- Summary Table
- - 다정하다: Warm/Sweet (Vibe)
- 친절하다: Kind/Polite (Social)
- 자상하다: Thoughtful/Detailed (Personal/Action)
- 세심하다: Meticulous/Attentive (Precision)
- 상세하다: Detailed (Technical/Objective)
사고 경위에 대한 상세한 보고서를 작성했다. (I wrote a detailed report on the circumstances of the accident.)
그는 정말 세심하게 파티를 준비했다. (He prepared the party very meticulously/attentively.)
How Formal Is It?
حقيقة ممتعة
While the literal Hanja translation focuses on 'being detailed,' the modern Korean usage has evolved to prioritize the 'emotional care' that comes from being detailed.
دليل النطق
- Pronouncing the 'j' too harshly like the 'j' in 'jump'.
- Failing to aspirate the 'h' in 'ha' clearly.
- Mixing up the 'sang' sound with 'sung'.
مستوى الصعوبة
Easy to recognize in texts, often appears in character descriptions.
Requires understanding the nuance between this and other 'kind' words.
Common in daily conversation, especially when giving compliments.
Clearly pronounced and frequently used in dramas.
ماذا تتعلّم بعد ذلك
المتطلبات الأساسية
تعلّم لاحقاً
متقدم
قواعد يجب معرفتها
Adjective + -ㄴ/은 (Noun Modifying Form)
자상한 사람 (A thoughtful person)
Adjective + -게 (Adverbial Form)
자상하게 말하다 (To speak thoughtfully)
Adjective + -아/어 주다 (Doing for someone)
자상하게 챙겨주다 (To thoughtfully take care of)
Adjective + -으시- (Honorific)
선생님은 자상하세요. (The teacher is thoughtful.)
Adjective + -함 (Nominalization)
그의 자상함이 좋다. (I like his thoughtfulness.)
أمثلة حسب المستوى
우리 아빠는 정말 자상해요.
My dad is really thoughtful.
Basic predicate form with the polite ending -아요/어요.
자상한 사람을 좋아해요.
I like thoughtful people.
Noun-modifying form: adjective + -ㄴ.
선생님이 자상하게 가르쳐요.
The teacher teaches thoughtfully/in detail.
Adverbial form: adjective + -게.
그는 참 자상한 친구예요.
He is a very thoughtful friend.
Adjective modifying the noun '친구'.
엄마는 항상 자상하세요.
Mom is always thoughtful.
Honorific ending -으세요/세요.
자상한 남편이 되고 싶어요.
I want to be a thoughtful husband.
Noun-modifying form used with '되고 싶다' (want to become).
오빠는 성격이 자상해요.
My older brother has a thoughtful personality.
Subject + 성격이 + Adjective.
자상한 목소리로 말해요.
Speak in a thoughtful voice.
Modifying the noun '목소리' (voice).
의사 선생님이 자상하게 설명해 주셨어요.
The doctor explained it thoughtfully/in detail.
Adverb + -어 주다 (to do something for someone).
자상한 성격 덕분에 친구가 많아요.
Thanks to a thoughtful personality, there are many friends.
Noun + 덕분에 (thanks to).
그는 아이들에게 매우 자상한 편이에요.
He is on the very thoughtful side toward children.
-(으)ㄴ 편이다 (to be on the side of/rather...).
항상 자상하게 챙겨줘서 고마워요.
Thank you for always taking care of me so thoughtfully.
Adverb + -어서 고맙다 (thank you for...).
자상한 마음씨를 가진 사람이 좋아요.
I like people with a thoughtful heart.
Noun-modifying form with '마음씨' (disposition).
그분은 누구에게나 자상하신 분이에요.
That person is someone who is thoughtful to everyone.
Honorific noun-modifying form -신.
질문에 자상하게 대답해 드릴게요.
I will answer your questions thoughtfully/in detail.
Adverb + -어 드릴게요 (humble version of 'will do for you').
우리 형은 저보다 훨씬 자상해요.
My older brother is much more thoughtful than me.
Comparison using -보다 훨씬.
그는 겉보기와 달리 아주 자상한 구석이 있다.
Contrary to appearances, he has a very thoughtful side.
-와 달리 (unlike/contrary to).
자상한 조언 덕분에 큰 힘이 되었습니다.
Thanks to your thoughtful advice, it was a great help.
Formal past tense ending -었습니다.
팀장님은 업무를 자상하게 가르쳐 주시는 편이다.
The team leader tends to teach the work thoughtfully/thoroughly.
Present progressive/habitual with -는 편이다.
자상함은 그가 가진 가장 큰 장점 중 하나이다.
Thoughtfulness is one of his greatest strengths.
-함 (nominalizer) to turn the adjective into a noun.
그는 아픈 아내를 위해 자상하게 죽을 끓였다.
He thoughtfully cooked porridge for his sick wife.
Adverbial use describing the intent behind an action.
자상한 남편을 둔 그녀가 부러워요.
I'm envious of her for having such a thoughtful husband.
-ㄴ/은... -ㄴ/은 (nested modifiers).
그의 자상한 배려에 감동을 받았습니다.
I was moved by his thoughtful consideration.
감동을 받다 (to be moved/touched).
어린아이들도 이해할 수 있게 자상하게 설명했다.
It was explained thoughtfully/simply so that even young children could understand.
-을 수 있게 (so that... can).
그의 자상한 성품은 주변 사람들을 편안하게 만든다.
His thoughtful nature makes the people around him feel comfortable.
Causative structure: -게 만들다 (to make someone...).
부모님의 자상한 보살핌 속에서 건강하게 자랐다.
I grew up healthy under my parents' thoughtful care.
- 속에서 (inside/under the context of).
그는 후배들의 고민을 자상하게 상담해 주기로 유명하다.
He is famous for thoughtfully counseling his juniors about their worries.
-기로 유명하다 (to be famous for...ing).
자상한 태도로 일관하는 그의 모습이 인상적이었다.
His appearance of consistently maintaining a thoughtful attitude was impressive.
-로 일관하다 (to be consistent with...).
그 영화는 인간의 고독을 자상하고 섬세하게 그려냈다.
That movie portrayed human loneliness in a thoughtful and delicate way.
Using two adjectives to describe a creative act.
자상한 설명이 덧붙여진 이 책은 전공자들에게도 유용하다.
This book, with detailed explanations added, is useful even for experts.
Passive modifier: -ㄴ/은... -어진.
그는 무뚝뚝한 말투와는 달리 행동은 매우 자상하다.
Unlike his blunt way of speaking, his actions are very thoughtful.
-와는 달리 (contrary to...).
자상하게 하나하나 짚어주니 이해가 쏙쏙 된다.
Since you are pointing them out thoughtfully one by one, the understanding comes easily.
Onomatopoeia '쏙쏙' (easily/smoothly).
그의 자상한 배려는 자칫 소홀해지기 쉬운 부분까지 미친다.
His thoughtful consideration extends even to parts that are easily overlooked.
자칫 -기 쉽다 (easily prone to...).
작가는 주인공의 심리를 자상하리만치 세밀하게 묘사하고 있다.
The author describes the protagonist's psychology so minutely that it feels almost (excessively) thoughtful.
-으리만치 (to the extent that...).
전통적인 가부장적 사회에서 '자상한 아버지'상은 새로운 변화의 상징이다.
In a traditional patriarchal society, the image of a 'thoughtful father' is a symbol of new change.
Abstract noun usage in social discourse.
그는 타인의 아픔을 자상하게 어루만져 줄 줄 아는 사람이다.
He is a person who knows how to thoughtfully soothe the pain of others.
-을 줄 알다 (to know how to...).
자상한 성품이 묻어나는 그의 편지는 받는 이의 마음을 따뜻하게 했다.
His letter, in which his thoughtful nature was evident, warmed the recipient's heart.
-이/가 묻어나다 (to be evident/to reveal itself).
그는 자상한 설명으로 청중의 오해를 불식시켰다.
He dispelled the audience's misunderstandings with a detailed and thoughtful explanation.
불식시키다 (to dispel/wipe out).
군더더기 없이 깔끔하면서도 자상한 안내 문구가 돋보인다.
The guidance text stands out for being clean and without fluff, yet thoughtful.
-하면서도 (while also being...).
그의 자상함은 계산된 행동이 아니라 천성에서 비롯된 것이다.
His thoughtfulness is not a calculated action but originates from his natural disposition.
-에서 비롯되다 (to originate from).
그의 자상함은 타인에 대한 깊은 성찰과 공감에서 기인한 숭고한 미덕이다.
His thoughtfulness is a sublime virtue resulting from deep reflection and empathy for others.
High-level vocabulary: 성찰 (reflection), 기인하다 (to result from).
논문의 주석조차 자상하게 달아놓은 것을 보니 필자의 학문적 성실함이 느껴진다.
Seeing how even the footnotes of the thesis are thoughtfully provided, one can feel the author's academic sincerity.
-조차 (even), -ㄴ 것을 보니 (seeing that...).
자상한 보살핌이 결여된 성장은 정서적 빈곤을 초래할 수 있다.
Growth lacking thoughtful care can lead to emotional poverty.
Formal academic tone with '결여' (lack) and '초래' (cause/bring about).
그는 자상한 필치로 시대의 아픔을 기록하며 후세에 경종을 울렸다.
He recorded the pain of the era with a detailed/thoughtful style, sounding an alarm for future generations.
Metaphorical use of '필치' (writing style).
현대 사회에서 자상함은 단순한 친절을 넘어선 고도의 정서적 노동일지도 모른다.
In modern society, thoughtfulness might be a high level of emotional labor that goes beyond simple kindness.
-일지도 모른다 (might be...).
그의 자상한 배려가 때로는 상대방에게 부담으로 작용할 수도 있음을 간과해서는 안 된다.
One must not overlook the fact that his thoughtful consideration can sometimes act as a burden to the other party.
간과해서는 안 된다 (must not overlook).
자상한 성격의 소유자인 그는 갈등 상황에서도 늘 중재자 역할을 자처했다.
As a possessor of a thoughtful personality, he always volunteered to be a mediator even in conflict situations.
-의 소유자 (possessor of...), 자처하다 (to volunteer/claim to be).
만물에 깃든 자상한 섭리를 깨닫는 것이야말로 진정한 지혜의 시작이다.
Realizing the thoughtful providence dwelling in all things is indeed the beginning of true wisdom.
Poetic/Philosophical register.
تلازمات شائعة
العبارات الشائعة
— How can you be so thoughtful? (Used to express pleasant surprise).
선물을 준비하셨다니, 어쩜 그렇게 자상해요?
— Wow, you/they are so thoughtful. (Often said by elders).
직접 요리까지 해오다니, 자상하기도 하시지.
— To have a thoughtful side (despite appearances).
그는 무서워 보이지만 자상한 면이 있다.
— The ultimate example of thoughtfulness (slangy/modern).
우리 오빠는 진짜 자상함의 끝판왕이야.
— To act thoughtfully (sometimes implies it's temporary or intentional).
오늘따라 왜 이렇게 자상하게 굴어?
— A thoughtful/caring touch.
어머니의 자상한 손길이 그리워요.
— To treat someone thoughtfully.
그는 나를 항상 자상하게 대해준다.
— Thoughtful advice.
선배님의 자상한 조언이 큰 도움이 됐어요.
— A thoughtful heart.
그의 자상한 마음이 느껴지는 선물이었다.
— A thoughtful way of speaking.
그녀의 자상한 말투는 사람을 편안하게 한다.
يُخلط عادةً مع
자세하다 is about objective details (like a map), while 자상하다 is about caring details (like a person).
친절하다 is basic politeness to anyone, while 자상하다 is deep thoughtfulness for specific people.
꼼꼼하다 is being meticulous about a task, while 자상하다 is being meticulous about a person's feelings.
تعبيرات اصطلاحية
— To be incomparably thoughtful; extremely considerate.
그의 자상하기가 이를 데 없어 모두가 그를 좋아한다.
Formal/Literary— Thoughtfulness is ingrained in one's body (a natural habit).
그는 자상함이 몸에 밴 사람이라 늘 친절하다.
Neutral— To inform/remind someone very thoughtfully/carefully.
할머니는 나에게 예절을 자상하게 일러주셨다.
Neutral— Thoughtfulness tailored to someone's level (usually kids/beginners).
그의 교육 방식은 눈높이에 맞춘 자상함이 특징이다.
Neutral— To overflow with thoughtfulness.
그는 자상함이 넘치는 사람이라 주변에 사람이 많다.
Informal— To look after someone with great care and detail.
간호사는 환자들을 자상하게 보살폈다.
Neutral— Thoughtful consideration stands out.
이번 행사는 주최측의 자상한 배려가 돋보였다.
Formal— Thoughtfulness is evident/smeared in something.
이 편지에는 그의 자상함이 묻어있다.
Literary— To reason with or admonish someone thoughtfully/gently.
어머니는 잘못을 한 아이를 자상하게 타일렀다.
Neutral— To use/show a thoughtful heart.
그는 어려운 이웃에게 자상한 마음을 썼다.
Neutralسهل الخلط
Both involve paying attention to small details.
세심하다 is more about precision and can be neutral. 자상하다 is always warm and caring.
세심한 관찰 (Meticulous observation) vs 자상한 배려 (Thoughtful consideration).
Both describe a 'nice' personality.
다정하다 is about general warmth/affection. 자상하다 is about specific, detailed acts of care.
다정한 부부 (Affectionate couple) vs 자상한 남편 (Husband who does small things for his wife).
Both translate to 'detailed'.
상세하다 is used for formal documents or data. 자상하다 is for human interactions.
상세한 보고서 (Detailed report) vs 자상한 설명 (Thoughtful explanation).
Basic synonyms for kindness.
친절하다 is the social standard. 자상하다 is the personal extra effort.
친절한 점원 (Kind clerk) vs 자상한 오빠 (Thoughtful older brother).
Both mean 'delicate' or 'detailed'.
섬세하다 is often about art or sensitivity. 자상하다 is about care/consideration.
섬세한 묘사 (Delicate description) vs 자상한 마음 (Thoughtful heart).
أنماط الجُمل
S + 성격이 자상해요.
우리 오빠는 성격이 자상해요.
자상한 + Noun
자상한 선생님을 만났어요.
자상하게 + Verb
자상하게 가르쳐 주세요.
S + 자상한 편이에요.
그는 누구에게나 자상한 편이에요.
자상하게 + Verb + -어 주다
엄마가 자상하게 챙겨 주셨어요.
자상한 + Noun + 덕분에
자상한 배려 덕분에 잘 끝냈어요.
자상하리만치 + Adjective
자상하리만치 세심한 설명이었다.
자상함이 깃든 + Noun
그의 자상함이 깃든 선물에 감동했다.
عائلة الكلمة
الأسماء
الأفعال
الصفات
مرتبط
كيفية الاستخدام
Very common in daily life and media.
-
Using 자상하다 for a polite waiter.
→
친절하다
자상하다 is too intimate for a stranger in a service role. Use 친절하다 for general service politeness.
-
Saying '자상한 날씨' (thoughtful weather).
→
좋은 날씨 / 따뜻한 날씨
자상하다 is almost exclusively used for people or human actions. It doesn't apply to nature or objects.
-
Using 자상하다 when you only mean 'meticulous' about a job.
→
꼼꼼하다
If a person is just good at checking errors but isn't necessarily 'caring,' use 꼼꼼하다.
-
Confusing 자상하다 with 자세하다 for a map.
→
자세한 지도
Maps don't have hearts. Use 자세하다 for objective details like maps or data.
-
Describing yourself as 자상하다 in a job interview.
→
세심하고 배려심 있는
While not 'wrong,' 자상하다 can sound a bit too personal/domestic for a formal interview. Use more professional terms like '세심하다'.
نصائح
Complimenting Men
If you want to give a high-level compliment to a Korean man you are dating or are married to, use '자상하다'. It is often considered the best quality a man can have in modern Korean society.
Adverbial Harmony
Pair '자상하게' with verbs like 챙겨주다 (take care of), 설명하다 (explain), or 가르쳐주다 (teach). These are the most natural combinations.
Details with Heart
Always remember that '자상하다' is 'Detail + Warmth'. If someone is just detailed but cold, they are '꼼꼼하다' or '자세하다', not '자상하다'.
Family First
The word is most frequently used within family contexts. Describing a father or brother as 자상하다 is very common and carries a lot of affection.
Honorifics Matter
When describing elders like grandparents or teachers, always use the honorific form '자상하신' or '자상하세요' to show proper respect.
Letter Writing
In a thank-you note to a teacher, use '자상한 가르침' (thoughtful teaching) to express deep gratitude for their detailed help.
Ideal Type
When asked about your ideal type (이상형), you can say '자상한 사람이 좋아요' (I like thoughtful people). This is a very common and safe answer.
Drama Clichés
In dramas, if a character is described as '자상하다', they are usually the kind, supportive character who might be the 'perfect guy'.
Don't confuse with '자세'
Remember that '자세' (jase) means 'posture/attitude', but '자세하다' (jase-hada) means 'detailed'. Don't mix them up with '자상하다'!
Story Method
Think of a person you know who is both meticulous and kind. Label them as your '자상 person' to remember the word.
احفظها
وسيلة تذكّر
Think of 'JA-SANG' as 'JUST-SANG' (Just sang). Imagine someone who 'just sang' a detailed, thoughtful song just for you to make you feel better.
ربط بصري
Imagine a father kneeling down to tie his child's shoelaces very carefully. That detailed care is '자상하다'.
Word Web
تحدٍّ
Try to describe three people in your life using '자상하다'. Write one sentence for each, explaining *why* they are 자상하다.
أصل الكلمة
Sino-Korean word derived from the Hanja 仔 (자) and 詳 (상).
المعنى الأصلي: 仔 (자) means 'meticulous,' 'careful,' or 'small,' and 詳 (상) means 'detailed,' 'thorough,' or 'clear.'
Sino-Korean (Hanja-based vocabulary).السياق الثقافي
It is a purely positive word. However, avoid using it to describe yourself, as Korean culture values humility.
The closest English equivalent is 'thoughtful' or 'considerate,' but '자상하다' often implies more effort and detail than these English words.
تدرّب في الحياة الواقعية
سياقات واقعية
Family Life
- 자상한 아버지
- 자상한 남편
- 자상하게 챙겨주다
- 가족에게 자상하다
Education
- 자상한 선생님
- 자상하게 가르치다
- 문제를 자상하게 풀다
- 학생들에게 자상하다
Medical/Service
- 자상한 의사
- 증상을 자상하게 묻다
- 자상한 안내
- 자상하게 돌보다
Dating/Relationships
- 자상한 남자친구
- 자상한 여자친구
- 자상하게 대해주다
- 자상함에 반하다
Workplace
- 자상한 상사
- 업무를 자상하게 알려주다
- 자상한 조언
- 자상한 선배
بدايات محادثة
"이상형이 어떻게 돼요? 자상한 사람이 좋아요?"
"우리 아버지는 정말 자상하신데, 너희 아버지는 어떠셔?"
"그 선생님은 설명을 참 자상하게 잘 해주시지 않니?"
"남자친구가 자상하게 잘 챙겨줘요?"
"어떤 사람이 자상한 사람이라고 생각해요?"
مواضيع للكتابة اليومية
오늘 누군가에게 자상한 배려를 받은 적이 있나요? 그 일을 자세히 적어보세요.
내가 생각하는 '자상한 사람'의 조건 3가지를 써보세요.
나는 주변 사람들에게 자상한 편인가요? 그렇게 생각하는 이유는 무엇인가요?
자상한 성격이 사회 생활에 어떤 도움을 줄 수 있을지 자신의 생각을 적어보세요.
나중에 자녀에게 어떤 자상한 부모가 되고 싶은지 계획해 보세요.
الأسئلة الشائعة
10 أسئلةYes, absolutely. While it is frequently used to describe the 'ideal man' in modern media, it is a gender-neutral term. You can describe a mother, a female teacher, or a friend as 자상하다. It simply means they are thoughtful and attentive to details in a caring way.
친절하다 is 'kindness' in a general, often social sense (like being polite to a stranger). 자상하다 is 'thoughtfulness' that involves more detail and personal care. A '자상한' person notices that you don't like onions and picks them out of your food; a '친절한' person just smiles and serves the food.
Rarely. It is mostly used for people. However, you can use it for things created by people that show a lot of care, like '자상한 설명' (a detailed explanation) or '자상한 안내' (thoughtful guidance). You wouldn't use it for a 'thoughtful chair' or 'thoughtful weather.'
It is grammatically correct, but culturally it might sound a bit arrogant. In Korean culture, it is better to let others describe you as 자상하다. If you want to say you try to be thoughtful, you could say '자상한 사람이 되려고 노력해요' (I try to be a thoughtful person).
Yes, it can mean 'detailed,' but usually in the context of an explanation or a person's behavior. For a technical manual or a map, '자세하다' or '상세하다' are more common. '자상하다' implies that the details are provided to be helpful or kind.
You can say '그는 자상하지 않아요' or '그는 무뚝뚝해요' (He is blunt/cold). '자상하지 않다' is a direct negation, while '무뚝뚝하다' is the most common antonym used to describe a lack of this quality.
Yes, it is a great compliment for a boss. It suggests they are a '자상한 상사'—someone who takes care of their team members and explains tasks thoroughly and kindly.
It is a neutral word that can be used in both formal and informal settings. In formal settings, you would just use the formal endings like '자상하십니다' or '자상합니다'.
The Hanja is 仔詳. 仔 (자) means 'meticulous' or 'careful,' and 詳 (상) means 'detailed.' Together, they form the meaning of being thoroughly attentive and considerate.
Yes, if a child is very caring and notices small things to help others, they can be described as 자상하다. For example, '우리 아들은 참 자상해요' (My son is very thoughtful).
اختبر نفسك 200 أسئلة
Translate: 'My boyfriend is very thoughtful.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translate: 'The teacher explained it in detail.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translate: 'I like a thoughtful person.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translate: 'Thank you for your thoughtful consideration.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translate: 'He is a thoughtful and kind person.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translate: 'He takes care of me thoughtfully.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translate: 'My father was always thoughtful to me.'
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Translate: 'How can you be so thoughtful?'
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Translate: 'He has a thoughtful side.'
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Translate: 'Please explain it thoughtfully for beginners.'
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Write a sentence using '자상한 남편'.
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Write a sentence using '자상하게 가르치다'.
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Translate: 'His thoughtfulness moved me.'
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Translate: 'He spoke in a thoughtful voice.'
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Translate: 'Is your older brother thoughtful?'
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Translate: 'I want to be a thoughtful mother.'
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Translate: 'The doctor was very thoughtful.'
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Translate: 'He tends to be thoughtful.'
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Translate: 'Contrary to his appearance, he is thoughtful.'
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Translate: 'Thank you for answering thoughtfully.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Pronounce: '자상하다'
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Pronounce: '자상한 남편'
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Pronounce: '자상하게 설명해요'
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Say 'My dad is thoughtful' in polite Korean.
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Say 'Thank you for being thoughtful' in polite Korean.
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Say 'He is a thoughtful teacher' in polite Korean.
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Say 'I like thoughtful people' in polite Korean.
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Say 'How can you be so thoughtful?' (Honorific)
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Pronounce: '자상함'
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Pronounce: '자상하신 분'
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Say 'He has a thoughtful personality' in polite Korean.
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Say 'Please explain it thoughtfully' in polite Korean.
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Say 'My brother is not very thoughtful' in polite Korean.
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Say 'He is famous for being thoughtful' in polite Korean.
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Say 'His thoughtfulness is impressive' in polite Korean.
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Say 'Speak in a thoughtful voice' in polite Korean.
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Say 'He is a very thoughtful friend' in polite Korean.
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Say 'Thank you for your thoughtful advice' in polite Korean.
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Say 'He is very thoughtful to children' in polite Korean.
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Say 'I want to be a thoughtful person' in polite Korean.
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Listen and write the word: (Audio: 자상하다)
Listen and write the word: (Audio: 자상하게)
Listen and write the phrase: (Audio: 자상한 남편)
Listen and write the phrase: (Audio: 자상한 선생님)
Listen and write the sentence: (Audio: 우리 아빠는 자상해요.)
Listen and write the sentence: (Audio: 자상하게 설명해 주세요.)
Listen and identify the adjective: (Audio: 그는 정말 자상한 사람이에요.)
Listen and identify the adverb: (Audio: 그녀는 자상하게 웃었다.)
Listen and write the noun: (Audio: 그의 자상함이 좋아요.)
Listen and write the honorific form: (Audio: 할아버지는 자상하세요.)
Listen and write the phrase: (Audio: 자상한 배려)
Listen and write the sentence: (Audio: 성격이 참 자상하시네요.)
Listen and write the word: (Audio: 자상하신)
Listen and write the phrase: (Audio: 자상한 목소리)
Listen and write the sentence: (Audio: 자상하게 챙겨줘서 고마워.)
/ 200 correct
Perfect score!
Summary
The word 자상하다 is the perfect way to describe someone who goes above and beyond in noticing and caring for the small details of your life. For example, a husband who prepares your favorite tea exactly when you need it is '자상한 남편'.
- 자상하다 means being thoughtful and detailed in a caring way.
- It is a high-level compliment for family, partners, and teachers.
- It combines 'emotional warmth' with 'meticulous attention to small things.'
- Commonly translated as 'considerate,' 'attentive,' or 'thoroughly kind.'
Complimenting Men
If you want to give a high-level compliment to a Korean man you are dating or are married to, use '자상하다'. It is often considered the best quality a man can have in modern Korean society.
Adverbial Harmony
Pair '자상하게' with verbs like 챙겨주다 (take care of), 설명하다 (explain), or 가르쳐주다 (teach). These are the most natural combinations.
Details with Heart
Always remember that '자상하다' is 'Detail + Warmth'. If someone is just detailed but cold, they are '꼼꼼하다' or '자세하다', not '자상하다'.
Family First
The word is most frequently used within family contexts. Describing a father or brother as 자상하다 is very common and carries a lot of affection.
مثال
우리 아빠는 매우 자상한 분이다.
محتوى ذو صلة
هذه الكلمة بلغات أخرى
مزيد من كلمات family
백일
A2احتفال باليوم المائة للمولود في كوريا.
환갑
A2هوانغاب هو احتفال تقليدي بعيد الميلاد الستين في كوريا. يمثل إكمال دورة كاملة مدتها 60 عاماً في التقويم القمري.
칠순
A2الاحتفال بعيد الميلاد السبعين. في الثقافة الكورية، يعتبر 'تشيلسون' علامة فارقة مهمة يتم الاحتفال بها عادةً مع العائلة تعبيراً عن الاحترام.
팔순
A280th birthday celebration.
알아주다
B1الاعتراف بجهود شخص ما أو مشاعره. تقدير القيمة الحقيقية لشخص أو شيء.
입양아
A2طفل متبنى؛ طفل تم نقله قانونياً إلى عائلة أخرى. الطفل المتبنى يحب والديه الجديدين كثيراً.
양녀
B1ابنة متبناة. أصبحت الفتاة ابنة متبناة لهذه العائلة بعد الحرب.
입양
A2التبني؛ العمل القانوني لاتخاذ طفل شخص آخر كطفل خاص. التبني هو وسيلة رائعة لبناء عائلة.
귀여워하다
A2يعشق، يجد شيئًا لطيفًا جدًا ويشعر بالمودة تجاهه. يعبر عن حنان نشط تجاه ما يُنظر إليه على أنه محبوب.
정답다
A2أن يكون ودوداً وعطوفاً. يصف علاقة أو جو مليء بالمودة والدفء.