At the A1 level, think of '자비롭다' as a very high level of being 'kind.' While you usually learn '친절하다' (kind) or '좋다' (good) first, '자비롭다' is used when someone is like a superhero or a very good king in a story. It means they have a very big heart and they help people who are sad or in trouble. You might see this word in simple fairy tales where a king is '자비로운 왕' (a merciful king). To use it, remember it is an adjective. You can say '그는 자비로워요' (He is merciful). The most important thing for A1 learners is to know it's a special, very strong kind of kindness that we use for very good people in stories or for God. It's like having a 'super heart.' You don't use it for small things like sharing a candy, but for big things like saving someone or being very, very nice to everyone.
For A2 learners, '자비롭다' is an excellent word to practice the 'ㅂ' irregular conjugation. Adjectives like '자비롭다', '춥다' (cold), and '어렵다' (difficult) all change their 'ㅂ' to '우' when you add a vowel. So, '자비롭-' + '-어요' becomes '자비로워요.' You can start using this word to describe characters in movies or books. For example, '그 영화의 주인공은 정말 자비로웠어요' (The main character of that movie was truly merciful). You should also learn the noun form '자비' (mercy). You can say '자비를 베풀다' which means 'to show mercy.' This is a common phrase. At this level, you can distinguish '자비롭다' from '착하다' (good/nice). '착하다' is for children or general behavior, while '자비롭다' sounds more formal and serious. It’s a great word to add flavor to your descriptions of people’s personalities.
At the B1 level, you should understand the cultural and religious roots of '자비롭다.' It comes from Buddhist terminology where '자' (慈) means giving happiness and '비' (悲) means taking away pain. This background explains why the word feels so deep and spiritual. You can use it in more complex sentences with connectors like '-아서/어서' (because) or '-(으)면' (if). For example, '그는 자비로워서 가난한 사람들을 항상 도와줍니다' (Because he is merciful, he always helps poor people). You can also start using the adverbial form '자비롭게' (mercifully) to describe actions: '그는 적을 자비롭게 대해 주었다' (He treated the enemy mercifully). This level requires you to understand the social hierarchy often implied by the word—mercy is usually shown by someone who has the power to punish but chooses not to. It’s a word that adds a layer of morality and ethics to your Korean vocabulary.
B2 learners should be able to use '자비롭다' in formal writing and debates. It is a key term when discussing human rights, history, or philosophy. You should be comfortable with the honorific form '자비로우시다' and use it when referring to respected figures. For instance, '신은 모든 생명체에게 자비로우십니다' (God is merciful to all living beings). You should also be able to contrast '자비롭다' with similar words like '관대하다' (lenient) and '인자하다' (benevolent). While '관대하다' might refer to a judge's legal leniency, '자비롭다' refers to the emotional compassion behind it. At this level, you can also understand metaphorical uses, such as describing a '자비로운 날씨' (merciful weather) after a long period of storms, though this is somewhat poetic. You should also recognize the negative form '자비 없는' (merciless) often used in sports or competitive contexts to describe an overwhelming victory.
At the C1 level, you should appreciate the literary and historical nuances of '자비롭다.' It is frequently used in 'Sageuk' (historical dramas) and classical literature to define the ideal character of a ruler or a sage. You should be able to analyze how '자비' functions as a moral imperative in Korean society, influenced by both Buddhism and Confucianism. You can use the word to describe complex psychological states, such as a character struggling between their duty to punish and their '자비로운' nature. You should also be familiar with academic or theological discussions where '자비' is explored as a concept of 'unconditional love' (무조건적인 사랑). Your usage should be precise, recognizing that '자비롭다' can sometimes carry a tone of 'noblesse oblige'—the responsibility of the privileged to be compassionate. You might also explore its use in modern social criticism, where the lack of '자비' in a competitive society is discussed.
For C2 learners, '자비롭다' is a tool for high-level discourse and creative writing. You should understand its subtle connotations in various registers, from the highly formal religious liturgy to the ironic or hyperbolic usage in contemporary media. You can engage in deep philosophical discussions about the nature of '자비' versus '정의' (justice), and how '자비로운' actions are perceived in different cultural contexts. You should be able to identify the word's presence in ancient Hanja-based idioms and literature, understanding how its meaning has evolved but remained anchored in its spiritual origins. At this level, you can use '자비롭다' to evoke specific emotional responses in your writing, perhaps using it ironically to highlight a character's hidden cruelty or using it in its purest sense to describe an act of ultimate self-sacrifice. Your mastery includes knowing exactly when the weight of this word is needed to provide the perfect rhetorical impact.

자비롭다 in 30 Sekunden

  • A deep adjective for 'merciful' or 'compassionate.'
  • Rooted in Buddhist philosophy (Jabi - 慈悲).
  • Follows 'ㅂ' irregular conjugation (자비로워요).
  • Used for religious, formal, or noble contexts.

The Korean word 자비롭다 (jabi-ropda) is a profound adjective that translates to 'being merciful' or 'compassionate.' It is much more than just being 'nice' or 'kind.' While 'kind' (친절하다) describes a general friendliness, 자비롭다 suggests a deep, often spiritual or moral capacity to show mercy to those who might not deserve it, or to those who are in a position of suffering. It originates from the Hanja '자비' (慈悲), which is a cornerstone of Buddhist philosophy, representing the desire to bring happiness to others (자/慈) and to remove their suffering (비/悲). In modern Korean, it is used to describe a person's character, a deity's grace, or even a leader's leniency.

Core Essence
The quality of having a heart that feels the pain of others and seeks to alleviate it through forgiveness and benevolence.
Spiritual Weight
Often associated with religious figures like Buddha or God, implying an infinite and unconditional love.
Social Context
Used when someone in power chooses to forgive a mistake rather than punish it, showing a 'merciful' side.

그 왕은 가난한 백성들에게 매우 자비로웠습니다. (That king was very merciful to the poor people.)

When you use this word, you are elevating the level of kindness you are describing. It is not something you would typically say about a friend who just bought you coffee. Instead, it is used for a teacher who gives a failing student another chance out of the goodness of their heart, or a person who dedicates their life to helping the homeless. It carries a sense of gravity and nobility. In historical dramas (Sageuk), you will often hear subjects praising a king's '자비' (mercy), emphasizing his role as a protector and a moral compass for the nation.

그녀의 자비로운 행동이 많은 사람들을 감동시켰다. (Her merciful actions moved many people.)

Furthermore, the suffix '-롭다' is added to nouns to create adjectives that mean 'to have the quality of' that noun. Other examples include '신비롭다' (mysterious) or '향기롭다' (fragrant). Therefore, '자비롭다' literally means 'to be full of mercy.' This structure makes the word feel formal and descriptive, often used in literature, news, and formal speeches rather than casual slang. Understanding this word helps learners grasp the deeper emotional and moral vocabulary of the Korean language, moving beyond simple adjectives to more nuanced descriptions of human character.

부처님의 자비로운 미소. (The Buddha's merciful smile.)

Synonym Comparison
Compared to '친절하다' (kind), '자비롭다' is much heavier. You are '친절' to a stranger asking for directions, but you are '자비' to an enemy who seeks forgiveness.

신은 자비로우신 분입니다. (God is a merciful being.)

Using 자비롭다 correctly requires an understanding of its grammatical behavior as a 'ㅂ' irregular adjective. In Korean, when an adjective ending in 'ㅂ' meets a suffix starting with a vowel, the 'ㅂ' usually transforms into '우'. For instance, when you want to say 'is merciful' in a polite way, you add '-어요' to the stem '자비롭-'. The result is '자비로워요'. This pattern is consistent across all similar adjectives like '아름답다' (beautiful) or '어렵다' (difficult). Mastering this transformation is key for A1 and A2 learners to sound natural.

Present Tense (Polite)
자비로워요 (Jabi-rowoyo) - It is/He is/She is merciful.
Past Tense (Polite)
자비로웠어요 (Jabi-rowosseoyo) - Was merciful.
Adjective Form (Modifying a Noun)
자비로운 (Jabi-roun) - Merciful [Noun]. For example: 자비로운 어머니 (A merciful mother).

그 판사는 매우 자비로운 결정을 내렸습니다. (The judge made a very merciful decision.)

In sentences, '자비롭다' often takes a target, indicating who the mercy is directed towards. This is usually marked with the particle '-에게' (to) or '-한테' (to/for). For example, '적에게 자비롭다' means 'to be merciful to an enemy.' This structure highlights the relational nature of mercy—it is an action or feeling directed from one person to another. It is also common to see this word paired with abstract nouns like '마음' (heart) or '눈빛' (look/expression), as in '자비로운 마음' (a merciful heart) or '자비로운 눈빛' (a merciful gaze).

선생님께서는 우리에게 항상 자비로우십니다. (The teacher is always merciful to us.)

Another important usage is in the negative form. To say someone is 'not merciful' or 'merciless,' you can say '자비롭지 않다' or use the more common antonym '냉혹하다' (cold-hearted). However, using '자비롭지 않다' specifically emphasizes the lack of the expected mercy. In literary contexts, you might see it used to describe nature or time, which are often personified as '자비롭지 않은' (unmerciful) forces that do not wait for anyone. This metaphorical usage adds depth to your Korean writing and speaking.

자연은 때때로 전혀 자비롭지 않습니다. (Nature is sometimes not merciful at all.)

Common Collocations
자비로운 마음 (Merciful heart), 자비로운 손길 (Merciful touch/help), 자비로운 통치 (Merciful rule).

그는 자비롭게도 나의 실수를 용서해 주었다. (He mercifully forgave my mistake.)

While 자비롭다 might seem like a word reserved for ancient texts or religious sermons, it actually appears in various modern contexts. One of the most common places to encounter it is in historical television dramas, known as 'Sageuk' (사극). In these shows, characters often appeal to the King's mercy using this term. Phrases like '전하, 자비를 베풀어 주시옵소서' (Your Majesty, please show us mercy) are iconic. Hearing this word in a Sageuk context helps you understand its historical weight and its association with power and authority.

Religious Settings
In Buddhist temples and Christian churches in Korea, '자비' is a frequent theme. Sermons and hymns often describe the '자비로운' nature of the divine, emphasizing forgiveness and universal love.
Literature and Poetry
Korean authors use this word to describe characters who possess an almost saint-like quality. It is a favorite word in classic literature to denote moral superiority and emotional depth.
News and Media
When a high-profile criminal is given a lighter sentence, or when a country provides humanitarian aid, news headlines might use '자비' or '자비롭다' to describe the leniency or the humanitarian spirit.

영화 속 주인공은 원수에게도 자비로운 모습을 보였다. (The protagonist in the movie showed a merciful side even to his enemy.)

In everyday modern Korean, you might hear '자비롭다' used somewhat ironically or humorously. For instance, if a boss cancels a late-night meeting, employees might jokingly say, '우리 부장님, 오늘 정말 자비로우시네!' (Our manager is so merciful today!). This usage shows how the word has shifted from purely religious or formal contexts into the vernacular of daily life, though its core meaning of 'showing unexpected kindness' remains intact.

가수들의 자비로운 팬 서비스가 화제가 되었다. (The singers' merciful/generous fan service became a hot topic.)

Furthermore, in the context of volunteer work or charity, '자비' is often used as a name for organizations or events. For example, '자비의 집' (House of Mercy) might be a shelter for the elderly or the homeless. Seeing this word on a sign or a flyer immediately signals to a Korean speaker that the organization is centered on compassion and humanitarian aid. It is a word that carries a positive, warm, and highly respected connotation in Korean society.

그는 평생 자비로운 마음으로 이웃을 도왔다. (He helped his neighbors with a merciful heart all his life.)

Internet Slang
Sometimes used to describe a 'generous' amount of food or a 'merciful' price (very cheap), though '혜자롭다' (hye-ja-ropda) is more common for this specific slang meaning.

이 식당은 양이 정말 자비롭네요. (This restaurant's portion size is truly merciful/generous.)

One of the most frequent mistakes learners make with 자비롭다 is using it in situations that are too casual. Because the word carries a heavy moral and religious weight, using it to describe a friend who shared their lunch can sound awkward or overly dramatic. In such cases, '착하다' (to be good/nice) or '친절하다' (to be kind) are much more appropriate. Think of '자비롭다' as the equivalent of 'merciful' in English—you wouldn't usually say 'My friend was merciful for letting me use his pen.'

Confusion with '착하다'
'착하다' is for general goodness or being 'a good boy/girl.' '자비롭다' is for a deeper, more intentional compassion, often from a position of power.
Conjugation Errors
Forgetting the 'ㅂ' irregular rule. Saying '자비롭아요' (X) instead of '자비로워요' (O) is a very common beginner mistake.
Misusing '자비' as a Verb
'자비' is a noun. You cannot say '자비하다'. You must use '자비롭다' (adjective) or the phrase '자비를 베풀다' (to show/bestow mercy).

잘못된 표현: 그는 아주 자비롭아요. (Wrong: He is very merciful.)
옳은 표현: 그는 아주 자비로워요. (Right: He is very merciful.)

Another mistake involves the nuance of pity vs. mercy. While '자비롭다' involves pity (비/悲), it is not synonymous with '불쌍하다' (to be pitiful). '불쌍하다' describes the state of the person suffering, whereas '자비롭다' describes the character of the person observing and helping that sufferer. If you want to say you feel sorry for someone, use '안타깝다' or '불쌍하다', not '자비롭다'. Using '자비롭다' to describe your own feelings of pity can sound like you are putting yourself on a pedestal, as if you are a deity looking down on others.

그 아이가 자비로워요 (X) - This implies the child is merciful. If you mean the child is pitiful, use 불쌍해요 (O).

Lastly, learners often struggle with the difference between '자비롭다' and '인자하다' (inja-hada). Both mean 'merciful' or 'benevolent,' but '인자하다' is almost exclusively used for elderly people, parents, or teachers who have a warm, gentle, and forgiving nature. '자비롭다' is broader and can include the 'fierce mercy' of a god or the 'legal mercy' of a judge. If you are describing a kind grandmother, '인자하다' is usually the better fit. If you are describing a hero who spares a villain's life, '자비롭다' is the way to go.

할머니께서는 인자한 미소를 지으셨다. (The grandmother gave a benevolent/gentle smile.)

Avoid This
Don't use '자비롭다' to describe a small favor. It sounds like you are being overly dramatic. Use '고맙다' or '친절하다' instead.

친구가 펜을 빌려줘서 자비로워요 (X) -> 친구가 친절해요 (O).

To truly master 자비롭다, it is helpful to look at its synonyms and related terms. Each has a specific nuance that changes the tone of your sentence. For example, 인자하다 (inja-hada) is very close but focuses more on a 'benevolent and gentle' nature, typically associated with elders. 너그럽다 (neogeureopda) means 'broad-minded' or 'generous,' used when someone is not strict and easily forgives mistakes. While a '자비로운' person shows deep compassion, a '너그러운' person might just be easygoing and not easily bothered by others' faults.

인자하다 (Inja-hada)
Focuses on the warmth and gentleness of a superior. Often used for grandparents or teachers. '인자한 미소' (A benevolent smile).
너그럽다 (Neogeureopda)
Focuses on being generous and not petty. '너그러운 마음으로 용서하다' (To forgive with a generous heart).
긍휼히 여기다 (Geunghyul-hi yeogida)
A very formal, often biblical term meaning 'to have compassion/pity on someone.' It is a verb phrase rather than an adjective.

그는 적에게도 너그러운 태도를 보였다. (He showed a generous/broad-minded attitude even to his enemy.)

On the other end of the spectrum, we have 박애 (bak-ae), which means 'philanthropy' or 'universal brotherhood.' A person who is '박애주의자' (a philanthropist/humanitarian) is someone who loves all humanity. While '자비롭다' is an emotional and moral quality, '박애' is often used to describe a philosophical stance or a large-scale humanitarian effort. Another interesting alternative is 혜자롭다 (hye-ja-ropda), a modern slang term derived from a famous actress known for her generous lunch box brand. It is used to describe anything that is 'mercifully' cheap or generous in quantity.

이 도시락은 정말 혜자롭다! (This lunch box is so generous/mercifully cheap!)

In formal writing, you might also encounter 관대하다 (gwandae-hada), which means 'tolerant' or 'lenient.' This is often used in legal or professional contexts, such as a '관대한 처분' (a lenient punishment). While '자비롭다' implies a heart full of love and pity, '관대하다' focuses more on the act of being less strict than required. Knowing these distinctions allows you to choose the exact word that fits the level of formality and the specific emotion you wish to convey in your Korean conversations.

정부는 이민자들에게 관대한 정책을 펼쳤다. (The government implemented lenient policies for immigrants.)

Summary Table
자비롭다: Deep mercy/compassion. 인자하다: Gentle/Elderly kindness. 너그럽다: Generous/Patient. 관대하다: Lenient/Tolerant.

그는 자비로운 성품을 타고났다. (He was born with a merciful nature.)

How Formal Is It?

Wusstest du?

The character '悲' (bi) contains the radical for 'heart' (心) at the bottom, indicating that mercy is a feeling that comes from the core of one's being.

Aussprachehilfe

UK /t͡sa.bi.ɾop̚.t͈a/
US /t͡sa.bi.ɾop̚.t͈a/
The stress is generally even across syllables, but the final 'tta' sound is emphasized.
Reimt sich auf
신비롭다 (sinbi-ropda) 향기롭다 (hyanggi-ropda) 정의롭다 (jeongui-ropda) 조화롭다 (johwa-ropda) 평화롭다 (pyeonghwa-ropda) 지혜롭다 (jihye-ropda) 풍요롭다 (pungyo-ropda) 자유롭다 (jayu-ropda)
Häufige Fehler
  • Pronouncing 'rop' as 'rob' (with a voiced 'b').
  • Failing to tense the 'da' into 'tta'.
  • Pronouncing the 'r' as an English 'r' instead of a Korean 'ㄹ' flap.
  • Missing the 'p' sound at the end of 'rop'.
  • Confusing the pitch accent in certain dialects.

Schwierigkeitsgrad

Lesen 2/5

Easy to read but requires knowing Hanja-derived suffixes.

Schreiben 3/5

The 'ㅂ' irregular conjugation can be tricky for beginners.

Sprechen 2/5

Pronunciation is straightforward once the 'tta' sound is mastered.

Hören 2/5

Common in dramas and religious contexts, easy to pick out.

Was du als Nächstes lernen solltest

Voraussetzungen

착하다 친절하다 마음 사람

Als Nächstes lernen

인자하다 너그럽다 관대하다 무자비하다 베풀다

Fortgeschritten

긍휼 박애 보살 성인 섭리

Wichtige Grammatik

ㅂ Irregular Adjectives

자비롭다 -> 자비로워요, 춥다 -> 추워요

-롭다 Suffix

신비 (mystery) + 롭다 = 신비롭다 (mysterious)

Honorific -으시다

자비롭다 -> 자비로우시다

Adverbial -게

자비롭다 -> 자비롭게

Noun Modifying -(으)ㄴ

자비롭다 -> 자비로운

Beispiele nach Niveau

1

왕은 정말 자비로워요.

The king is truly merciful.

Present tense polite form of 자비롭다.

2

그녀는 자비로운 사람입니다.

She is a merciful person.

Adjective form modifying the noun '사람'.

3

자비로운 마음이 중요해요.

A merciful heart is important.

Noun modification: 자비로운 + 마음.

4

선생님은 우리에게 자비로워요.

The teacher is merciful to us.

Target marked with '-에게'.

5

신은 자비롭습니다.

God is merciful.

Formal polite ending -습니다.

6

그는 자비로운 미소를 지었어요.

He gave a merciful smile.

Past tense of '짓다' (to make/wear a smile).

7

우리는 자비로운 사람이 되어야 해요.

We should become merciful people.

'-아야/어야 하다' means 'must' or 'should'.

8

엄마는 항상 자비로워요.

Mom is always merciful.

Adverb '항상' (always) used with the adjective.

1

그는 자비로워서 모두가 좋아해요.

Because he is merciful, everyone likes him.

'-아서/어서' connector for reason.

2

자비로운 왕이 나라를 다스렸어요.

A merciful king ruled the country.

Past tense '다스렸어요'.

3

그 판사는 자비로운 판결을 내렸어요.

The judge gave a merciful verdict.

'판결을 내리다' is a set phrase for 'to give a verdict'.

4

자비롭게 행동하는 것이 어려워요.

It is difficult to act mercifully.

Adverbial form '자비롭게' + '-는 것' noun phrase.

5

그녀의 자비로운 말에 눈물이 났어요.

I cried at her merciful words.

'-에' particle indicating the cause of the emotion.

6

자비로우면 친구가 많아질 거예요.

If you are merciful, you will have more friends.

'-으면' conditional + '-아/어지다' change of state.

7

그분은 정말 자비로우신 분이에요.

That person is a truly merciful person.

Honorific '-으신' used for respect.

8

세상은 자비로운 사람들을 필요로 해요.

The world needs merciful people.

'필요로 하다' means 'to need'.

1

자비로운 마음을 가지는 것은 수행의 시작입니다.

Having a merciful heart is the beginning of spiritual practice.

Abstract noun usage in a philosophical context.

2

그는 자신의 실수에도 자비로워지려고 노력했다.

He tried to be merciful even toward his own mistakes.

'-아/어지려고 노력하다' (trying to become...).

3

자비로운 손길이 필요한 곳이 많습니다.

There are many places that need a merciful touch (help).

Metaphorical use of '손길' (touch/hand).

4

적에게 자비로운 것은 진정한 용기입니다.

Being merciful to an enemy is true courage.

Subject nominalization with '-는 것'.

5

신부님은 고해성사를 하는 사람들에게 자비로우셨다.

The priest was merciful to those who came for confession.

Honorific past tense '자비로우셨다'.

6

자비로운 지도자는 백성의 고통을 외면하지 않는다.

A merciful leader does not turn away from the people's suffering.

Negative '외면하지 않는다'.

7

그의 자비로운 성품은 부모님으로부터 물려받은 것이다.

His merciful nature was inherited from his parents.

'-ㄴ 것이다' indicating a fact or explanation.

8

우리는 서로에게 조금 더 자비로워질 필요가 있다.

We need to be a little more merciful to each other.

'-ㄹ 필요가 있다' (there is a need to...).

1

법은 엄격해야 하지만, 때로는 자비로운 면도 있어야 한다.

The law must be strict, but sometimes it must also have a merciful side.

'-아야 하지만' contrastive structure.

2

자비로운 통치는 국민의 충성심을 이끌어낸다.

Merciful rule draws out the loyalty of the people.

Formal academic/political tone.

3

그의 자비로운 행동은 위선이 아니라 진심에서 우러나온 것이었다.

His merciful actions came from the heart, not from hypocrisy.

'A가 아니라 B' (not A but B).

4

자비로운 눈빛 하나가 절망에 빠진 사람을 구할 수 있다.

A single merciful look can save someone in despair.

'-ㄹ 수 있다' (can/ability).

5

종교의 핵심 가치는 자비로운 삶을 실천하는 데 있다.

The core value of religion lies in practicing a merciful life.

'-는 데 있다' (lies in the act of...).

6

그는 자비로운 척했지만 속으로는 다른 생각을 하고 있었다.

He pretended to be merciful, but inside he had other thoughts.

'-ㄴ 척하다' (to pretend).

7

자비로운 끝맺음은 갈등을 해소하는 가장 좋은 방법이다.

A merciful ending is the best way to resolve conflict.

Adjective modifying '끝맺음' (ending/conclusion).

8

자연의 섭리는 때때로 인간에게 자비롭지 않게 느껴진다.

The providence of nature sometimes feels unmerciful to humans.

Adverbial '자비롭지 않게' + '느껴지다'.

1

부처의 자비로운 가르침은 수천 년 동안 인류에게 영감을 주었다.

The Buddha's merciful teachings have inspired humanity for thousands of years.

Historical present perfect nuance.

2

자비로운 용서는 가해자보다 피해자의 영혼을 치유하는 힘이 있다.

Merciful forgiveness has the power to heal the soul of the victim more than the perpetrator.

Comparative '보다' in a complex sentence.

3

작가는 소설 속에서 인간의 자비로운 본성과 잔혹함을 동시에 묘사했다.

The author depicted human's merciful nature and cruelty simultaneously in the novel.

Literary analysis context.

4

자비로운 시선으로 세상을 바라볼 때 비로소 진실이 보인다.

Only when looking at the world with a merciful perspective does the truth become visible.

'-(으)ㄹ 때 비로소' (Only when... then...).

5

그의 자비로운 행보는 많은 정치인들에게 귀감이 되었다.

His merciful steps (actions) became a model for many politicians.

'귀감이 되다' (to be a role model/exemplar).

6

진정한 자비란 단순히 불쌍히 여기는 것을 넘어선 숭고한 감정이다.

True mercy is a sublime emotion that goes beyond simply feeling pity.

'-(이)란' for definitions.

7

자비로운 침묵이 백 마디 말보다 더 큰 위로가 될 때가 있다.

There are times when a merciful silence provides more comfort than a hundred words.

Abstract usage of '침묵' (silence).

8

역사는 자비로운 승자가 결국 민심을 얻는다는 것을 보여준다.

History shows that a merciful winner eventually wins the hearts of the people.

'-ㄴ다는 것을 보여준다' (shows that...).

1

자비로운 절대자의 존재 여부는 형이상학적 논쟁의 핵심 과제 중 하나이다.

The existence of a merciful absolute being is one of the core tasks of metaphysical debate.

High-level academic terminology.

2

그의 자비로운 태도 이면에는 치밀하게 계산된 정치적 의도가 숨어 있었다.

Behind his merciful attitude lay a meticulously calculated political intention.

'이면에는' (on the flip side/behind the scenes).

3

문학에서 자비로운 죽음은 고통으로부터의 영원한 해방을 상징하기도 한다.

In literature, a merciful death sometimes symbolizes eternal liberation from suffering.

Symbolism in literary criticism.

4

자비로운 마음의 발현은 인류 진화의 과정에서 중요한 도덕적 도약이었다.

The manifestation of a merciful heart was a significant moral leap in the process of human evolution.

Sociological/Evolutionary context.

5

그의 문체는 매우 자비로워서 독자들의 상처받은 마음을 어루만져 주었다.

His writing style was so merciful that it soothed the wounded hearts of readers.

'어루만져 주다' (to stroke/soothe).

6

자비로운 사회 시스템을 구축하는 것은 현대 민주주의의 지향점이다.

Building a merciful social system is the goal of modern democracy.

Political philosophy context.

7

자비로운 망각은 때로 과거의 고통을 딛고 일어서게 하는 원동력이 된다.

Merciful forgetting sometimes becomes the driving force to overcome past pain.

Psychological/Philosophical nuance.

8

그의 자비로운 성정은 난세 속에서도 빛을 발하며 많은 추종자를 낳았다.

His merciful character shone even in times of chaos, giving birth to many followers.

'성정' (character/disposition) - literary term.

Häufige Kollokationen

자비로운 마음
자비로운 미소
자비로운 신
자비로운 통치
자비로운 판결
자비로운 손길
자비로운 시선
자비로운 성품
자비로운 태도
자비로운 은혜

Häufige Phrasen

자비를 베풀다

— To show or bestow mercy. Used when someone in power helps someone.

가난한 사람들에게 자비를 베푸세요.

자비심이 깊다

— To have a deep sense of mercy. Used to describe a very compassionate person.

그녀는 자비심이 아주 깊은 분이다.

자비 없는

— Merciless or ruthless. Often used in sports or competitions.

그 팀은 자비 없는 공격을 퍼부었다.

자비의 손길

— A helping hand out of mercy. Used for volunteer work.

자비의 손길을 기다리는 이재민들.

자비로운 눈빛

— A look full of compassion. Used in literature or descriptions.

부처님의 자비로운 눈빛.

자비로운 처사

— A merciful action or treatment. Often used in formal contexts.

그것은 참으로 자비로운 처사였다.

자비를 구하다

— To beg for mercy. Used in historical or legal contexts.

죄인은 왕에게 자비를 구했다.

자비의 마음으로

— With a heart of mercy. Used as an adverbial phrase.

자비의 마음으로 원수를 용서했다.

자비로운 성인

— A merciful saint. Used for highly religious figures.

그는 자비로운 성인처럼 살았다.

자비의 빛

— The light of mercy. A poetic or religious expression.

자비의 빛이 온 세상에 퍼지길.

Wird oft verwechselt mit

자비롭다 vs 친절하다

친절하다 is for everyday friendliness; 자비롭다 is for deep, moral mercy.

자비롭다 vs 착하다

착하다 is 'good/nice' (often for kids); 자비롭다 is 'merciful' (often for superiors).

자비롭다 vs 불쌍하다

불쌍하다 is 'to be pitiful' (the sufferer); 자비롭다 is 'to be merciful' (the helper).

Redewendungen & Ausdrücke

"자비가 없다"

— To be heartless or merciless. Often used when someone is very strict.

우리 선생님은 숙제에 대해 자비가 없어요.

Casual
"천금 같은 자비"

— Mercy that is worth a thousand gold pieces (very precious mercy).

왕의 천금 같은 자비에 눈물을 흘렸다.

Literary
"자비의 화신"

— The incarnation of mercy. Someone who is exceptionally compassionate.

그녀는 이 마을에서 자비의 화신으로 통한다.

Formal
"자비는 없다"

— No mercy. A phrase often heard in action movies or games.

전쟁터에서 자비는 없다.

Casual
"부처님 가운데 토막"

— Literally 'a piece of the middle of Buddha.' Describes a very merciful and patient person.

그는 정말 부처님 가운데 토막처럼 자비롭다.

Idiomatic
"자비로운 칼"

— A merciful sword. Sometimes used to describe a quick death that ends suffering.

그것은 고통을 끝내주는 자비로운 칼이었다.

Literary
"자비를 밥 먹듯 하다"

— To show mercy as easily/frequently as one eats rice (very often).

그는 자비를 베푸는 일을 밥 먹듯 한다.

Colloquial
"자비의 바다"

— An ocean of mercy. Meaning infinite compassion.

신의 자비는 끝없는 바다와 같다.

Religious
"자비로운 품"

— A merciful embrace/bosom. Used for a place of safety and kindness.

고향은 자비로운 어머니의 품과 같다.

Poetic
"자비의 꽃"

— The flower of mercy. Used to describe a beautiful act of kindness.

그의 선행은 자비의 꽃으로 피어났다.

Poetic

Leicht verwechselbar

자비롭다 vs 인자하다

Both mean benevolent.

인자하다 is specifically for the gentle kindness of elders or parents. 자비롭다 is more universal and can be used for God or kings.

인자한 할머니 vs 자비로운 신.

자비롭다 vs 너그럽다

Both involve forgiveness.

너그럽다 is being broad-minded and not strict. 자비롭다 involves a deeper feeling of pity and compassion.

너그러운 성격 vs 자비로운 행동.

자비롭다 vs 관대하다

Both mean lenient.

관대하다 is more about the act of being less strict than usual (legal/procedural). 자비롭다 is more about the emotional heart behind it.

관대한 처벌 vs 자비로운 용서.

자비롭다 vs 혜자롭다

Modern slang for generous.

혜자롭다 is casual slang for 'good value for money' or 'large portions.' 자비롭다 is serious and moral.

혜자로운 도시락 vs 자비로운 위인.

자비롭다 vs 다정하다

Both involve kindness.

다정하다 is being warm, sweet, and affectionate in a personal way. 자비롭다 is a more distant, noble form of compassion.

다정한 연인 vs 자비로운 구원자.

Satzmuster

A1

N은/는 자비로워요.

선생님은 자비로워요.

A2

자비로운 N이/가 V-아요/어요.

자비로운 왕이 살았어요.

B1

N에게 자비롭게 V-아/어 주다.

동생에게 자비롭게 대해 주었어요.

B2

N이/가 자비롭지 않으면...

세상이 자비롭지 않으면 슬퍼요.

C1

자비로운 N이야말로...

자비로운 마음이야말로 최고의 미덕이다.

C2

자비로운 N의 발현은...

자비로운 성정의 발현은 놀라웠다.

All

자비로운 마음으로...

자비로운 마음으로 도와주세요.

All

정말 자비롭네요!

와, 정말 자비롭네요!

Wortfamilie

Substantive

자비 (Mercy/Compassion)
자비심 (Heart of mercy)
자비주의 (Mercifulness/Humanitarianism)

Verben

자비를 베풀다 (To show mercy)
자비하다 (Rare/Old-fashioned for 'to be merciful')

Adjektive

자비로운 (Merciful - modifying form)
무자비한 (Merciless)

Verwandt

인자 (Benevolence)
긍휼 (Compassion/Pity)
사랑 (Love)
용서 (Forgiveness)
연민 (Pity)

So verwendest du es

frequency

Medium-High (Common in literature, media, and religion).

Häufige Fehler
  • 자비롭아요 자비로워요

    Incorrect conjugation. 'ㅂ' must change to '우'.

  • Using it for 'cheap' 혜자롭다 / 싸다

    '자비롭다' is moral mercy, not a good deal at a store.

  • 자비하다 (as a verb) 자비를 베풀다

    '자비' is a noun; you need a supporting verb like '베풀다'.

  • Confusing with '불쌍하다' 자비롭다 (for the giver)

    You are '자비롭다' when you help the person who is '불쌍하다'.

  • Using it for a peer's small favor 고맙다 / 친절하다

    It's too formal and heavy for a friend lending you a pen.

Tipps

Master the ㅂ Irregular

Always remember: 자비롭다 + 어요 = 자비로워요. This applies to all -롭다 adjectives!

Think of Sageuk

Watch historical dramas to hear how characters use '자비' when speaking to the King. It helps with context.

Learn the Noun First

If you remember '자비' (mercy), the adjective '자비롭다' (merciful) is easy to build.

Don't Overuse It

Save '자비롭다' for truly special acts of kindness. Overusing it makes it lose its power.

Pair with 인자하다

Learn these two together. One for kings/gods (자비롭다), one for grandmas (인자하다).

Tense the '다'

Say '자비롭-따' (jabi-rop-tta) to sound like a native speaker.

The 'Heart' Connection

The Hanja for 'Bi' (悲) has 'heart' in it. Mercy comes from the heart!

Use in Descriptions

Use it to describe a hero's most noble trait in your Korean essays.

Complimenting Elders

Using '자비로우시다' to describe a respected elder's kindness is very polite.

Explore Buddhism

Read a little about 'Jabi' in Buddhism to understand the deepest level of this word.

Einprägen

Eselsbrücke

Think of 'Jabi' as 'Job-y'. Imagine a person whose 'job' is to be 'merciful' and kind to everyone. They are 'Joby-ropda' (Jabi-ropda)!

Visuelle Assoziation

Imagine a giant, golden Buddha statue with a gentle smile, reaching out a hand to help a small, shivering kitten.

Word Web

Buddha God King Forgiveness Compassion Kindness Pity Grace

Herausforderung

Try to use '자비롭다' in a sentence about your favorite fictional hero today.

Wortherkunft

From the Hanja 慈悲 (Jabi). '慈' (ja) means benevolence, affection, or a mother's love. '悲' (bi) means sadness, grief, or pity.

Ursprüngliche Bedeutung: In Buddhist scripture, it refers to the dual path of giving joy and removing suffering.

Sino-Korean (Hanja-derived).

Kultureller Kontext

Avoid using it sarcastically in religious settings as it might be seen as disrespectful.

While 'merciful' in English is often religious, '자비롭다' is slightly more common in literary and historical contexts in Korea.

The movie 'Pietà' (피에타) by Kim Ki-duk explores themes of mercy and the lack thereof. The phrase '자비란 없다' is a common trope in Korean action webtoons. Buddhist chants often repeat 'Namu-Amita-Bul' which is connected to the concept of infinite mercy.

Im Alltag üben

Kontexte aus dem Alltag

Religious Sermon

  • 자비로운 신
  • 자비를 베푸소서
  • 자비의 가르침
  • 자비로운 삶

Historical Drama

  • 자비로운 전하
  • 자비를 구하나이다
  • 자비로운 통치
  • 자비의 은혜

Humanitarian Work

  • 자비로운 손길
  • 자비의 집
  • 자비로운 후원
  • 자비심을 발휘하다

Legal/Courtroom

  • 자비로운 판결
  • 자비를 호소하다
  • 자비로운 처분
  • 자비로운 마음으로 용서하다

Everyday Irony

  • 참 자비로우시네요
  • 자비 없는 가격
  • 자비로운 양
  • 자비가 넘치다

Gesprächseinstiege

"어떤 사람이 가장 자비롭다고 생각하세요? (Who do you think is the most merciful person?)"

"자비로운 지도자가 되려면 무엇이 필요할까요? (What is needed to become a merciful leader?)"

"최근에 누군가에게 자비를 베푼 적이 있나요? (Have you shown mercy to someone recently?)"

"자비와 정의 중 무엇이 더 중요하다고 생각하세요? (Which do you think is more important, mercy or justice?)"

"자비로운 행동이 세상을 바꿀 수 있을까요? (Can merciful actions change the world?)"

Tagebuch-Impulse

내가 생각하는 '자비'의 정의에 대해 써보세요. (Write about your own definition of 'mercy.')

누군가 나에게 자비로웠던 순간을 기록해 보세요. (Record a moment when someone was merciful to you.)

내가 만약 왕이라면 어떤 자비로운 법을 만들고 싶나요? (If you were a king, what merciful laws would you want to make?)

자비로운 마음을 갖기 위해 매일 할 수 있는 일은 무엇일까요? (What can you do daily to have a merciful heart?)

무자비한 세상에서 자비롭게 사는 법에 대해 고민해 보세요. (Think about how to live mercifully in a merciless world.)

Häufig gestellte Fragen

10 Fragen

You can, but it sounds very dramatic or ironic. It's like saying 'You are so merciful' in English. Use '친절하다' or '착하다' for normal situations.

'자비' is the noun (mercy), and '자비롭다' is the adjective (merciful). You use '자비' with verbs like '베풀다' (to show) or '구하다' (to seek).

No, but it has strong religious roots. Today, it's used in literature, news, and history to describe any person with a deeply compassionate heart.

You can say '무자비하다' (mu-jabi-hada) or '자비가 없다' (to have no mercy).

It's not as common as '좋다' or '예쁘다' in daily conversation, but it's very common in written Korean, dramas, and formal speeches.

Because it's a 'ㅂ' irregular adjective. The 'ㅂ' changes to '우' when it meets a vowel sound like '-어요'.

Usually, it's for humans or deities. However, you could use it poetically to describe a mother animal caring for its young.

It is 慈悲. 慈 (ja) means 'loving-kindness' and 悲 (bi) means 'compassion/pity'.

Yes, it is a standard Korean word used across the peninsula, often in political or literary contexts there as well.

The slang '혜자롭다' (hye-ja-ropda) is the closest modern equivalent for 'generous' or 'merciful' in terms of price or quantity.

Teste dich selbst 180 Fragen

writing

Translate: 'The king was merciful.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate: 'God is merciful.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate: 'A merciful heart.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate: 'Please show mercy.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate: 'He treated the enemy mercifully.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate: 'She is a merciful person.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate: 'The teacher is merciful to the students.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate: 'A merciful smile.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate: 'The world needs mercy.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate: 'He is not merciful.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate: 'The judge's merciful decision.'

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Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate: 'A heart of mercy.'

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Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate: 'Because he is merciful...'

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Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate: 'If you are merciful...'

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Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate: 'Mercifully, he forgave me.'

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Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate: 'A truly merciful being.'

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Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate: 'To seek mercy.'

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Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate: 'The light of mercy.'

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Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate: 'A merciless person.'

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Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate: 'He became merciful.'

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Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Pronounce: 자비롭다

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Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say 'He is merciful' in polite Korean.

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Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say 'A merciful king' in Korean.

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Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say 'Show mercy, please' in a respectful way.

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Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say 'Merciful heart' in Korean.

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Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say 'God is merciful' in formal Korean.

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Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say 'Mercifully' in Korean.

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Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Ask 'Is he merciful?' in polite Korean.

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Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say 'I want to be a merciful person.'

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Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say 'A merciful smile' in Korean.

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Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say 'He was merciful' in polite Korean.

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Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say 'Merciless' in Korean.

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Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say 'A merciful judge' in Korean.

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Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say 'The teacher is always merciful.'

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Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say 'Please be merciful to me.'

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Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say 'A merciful look' in Korean.

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Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say 'He is a truly merciful person.'

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Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say 'Mercy is important.'

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Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say 'A merciful mother.'

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Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say 'The king was very merciful.'

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Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen to the word: 자비롭다. Is it an adjective or a verb?

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen: '자비로워요'. Is this past or present?

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen: '자비로운 왕'. Who is being described?

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen: '자비를 베풀다'. What is the action?

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen: '무자비한'. Is this positive or negative?

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen: '자비롭게'. What part of speech is this?

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen: '자비로운 미소'. What is kind?

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen: '신은 자비롭다'. Who is merciful?

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen: '자비로웠어요'. Is this formal or polite?

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen: '자비심'. What does it mean?

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen: '자비로운 판결'. Where are we?

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen: '자비의 손길'. What is being offered?

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen: '자비로우신 분'. Is this respectful?

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen: '자비롭지 않다'. Does the person have mercy?

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen: '대자대비'. Is this a simple or complex term?

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:

/ 180 correct

Perfect score!

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