Esta página en tu idioma

English

فارسی

العربية

Deutsch

Français

日本語

한국어

Português

中文

हिन्दी

A2 adjective 7 min de lectura

의미있다

Practícalo Ejemplos Notas y consejos 의미있다 en 30 segundos

Explicación 의미있다 in your Level:

At the A1 level, you can think of '의미있다' as a way to say something is 'special' or 'good' in a deeper way. You might use it to describe a gift (선물) or a day (날). It is built from '의미' (meaning) and '있다' (to have). Even as a beginner, you can use the basic polite form '의미있어요' to tell someone that their help or their gift was important to you. It's a very kind word to use. For example, if a friend gives you a small souvenir, saying '의미있어요' shows you appreciate the thought, not just the object. You should focus on the simple sentence structure: [Subject] + [의미있어요]. Don't worry about complex grammar yet; just use it to express that something is more than just 'fun' (재미있다) or 'good' (좋다). It's a great word to add to your vocabulary to sound more sincere.

Regístrate gratis para leer la explicación completa

At the A2 level, you should start using '의미있다' as a modifier before nouns. This is done by changing it to '의미있는'. For example, '의미있는 선물' (a meaningful gift) or '의미있는 시간' (meaningful time). You are moving beyond simple sentences and starting to describe things with more detail. You can also start using it with particles like '~에게' (to someone). '이것은 저에게 의미있는 물건이에요' (This is a meaningful object to me). At this level, you should also be able to distinguish '의미있다' from '재미있다' (to be fun). While '재미있다' is about entertainment, '의미있다' is about the value or significance of an event. You might spend a 'meaningful' time studying, even if it wasn't 'fun.' Practice using the past tense '의미있었어요' to talk about your experiences during a trip or a meeting.

At the B1 level, you can use '의미있다' to express more complex thoughts about your life and choices. You can use the adverbial form '의미있게' to describe how you do things. For example, '시간을 의미있게 보내고 싶어요' (I want to spend my time meaningfully). This shows you are thinking about intentions and goals. You should also begin to understand the nuance between '의미있다' and '보람차다' (to be rewarding). '보람차다' is often used when you've worked hard and feel proud, while '의미있다' focuses on the significance of the act itself. At this stage, you can use '의미있다' in more formal settings, such as during a job interview or a presentation, to explain why a certain project or experience was important for your professional growth. You can also handle negative forms like '무의미하다' (to be meaningless) to describe wasted time or efforts.

Regístrate gratis para leer la explicación completa

At the B2 level, you should be comfortable using '의미있다' in abstract and social contexts. You can discuss whether a social movement or a new policy is '의미있는 변화' (a meaningful change). Your vocabulary should expand to include synonyms like '뜻깊다' (profound) and '가치있다' (valuable). You should be able to explain the difference: '뜻깊다' is often for formal, historical, or very deep emotional events, while '의미있다' is more general. You can use '의미있다' to analyze literature or films, discussing the '의미있는 장면' (meaningful scenes). Your sentences can become more complex, using connectors like '~아서/어서' or '~기 때문에'. For example, '결과보다는 과정이 더 의미있었기 때문에 후회하지 않아요' (I don't regret it because the process was more meaningful than the result). This level requires you to use the word to justify opinions and values.

Regístrate gratis para leer la explicación completa

At the C1 level, '의미있다' becomes a tool for nuanced academic and professional discourse. You should be able to use it alongside its more technical counterpart, '유의미하다' (statistically or theoretically significant). You will encounter '의미있다' in high-level literature and editorials where it might describe a 'meaningful silence' or a 'meaningful gesture' in a sociopolitical context. You should be able to discuss existential themes, such as '의미있는 삶' (a meaningful life), and contrast it with societal expectations. At this level, you should also master the subtle registers of the word—using it in formal speeches to acknowledge the weight of an occasion. You can use it to critique complex ideas, noting when a particular argument lacks a 'meaningful basis.' Your usage should reflect an understanding of the word's Hanja roots (意味) and how it relates to the 'essence' of things.

Regístrate gratis para leer la explicación completa

At the C2 level, you use '의미있다' with the precision of a native speaker, often in philosophical, artistic, or highly technical contexts. You can explore the '의미있는 타자' (Significant Other) in psychological terms or discuss the '의미있는 형식' (Significant Form) in art theory. You understand that '의미있다' can sometimes be used ironically or to describe something that is 'pregnant with meaning' (의미심장하다). Your command allows you to use the word in complex rhetorical structures, such as '단순한 성공을 넘어, 우리 사회에 어떤 의미있는 족적을 남길 것인가?' (Beyond simple success, what kind of meaningful footprint will we leave on our society?). You are capable of debating the linguistic 'meaning' (의미) vs. the existential 'meaningfulness' (의미있음) of human language itself. At this stage, the word is not just a vocabulary item but a conceptual building block for expressing the highest levels of human thought and emotion.

Regístrate gratis para leer la explicación completa

Practícalo Ejemplos Notas y consejos

의미있다 en 30 segundos

의미있다 means 'meaningful' or 'significant,' combining 'meaning' (의미) and 'to have' (있다).
It is used for gifts, experiences, and goals that have deep value or purpose.
The modifier form is '의미있는' (a meaningful...) and the adverb is '의미있게' (meaningfully).
It differs from '중요하다' (important) by focusing on emotional or qualitative value rather than priority.

The Korean word 의미있다 (uimi-itda) is a cornerstone of expressing value and significance in the Korean language. At its most basic level, it combines the noun 의미 (uimi), meaning 'meaning' or 'sense,' with the existential verb 있다 (itda), meaning 'to exist' or 'to have.' When fused together, they create an adjective that describes something as having deep significance, being worthwhile, or carrying a weight that goes beyond the surface level. For English speakers, it translates most directly to 'meaningful,' 'significant,' or 'worthwhile,' but the cultural usage in Korea often leans heavily into the emotional and personal resonance of an experience or object.

Emotional Resonance: In Korean culture, finding 'meaning' in small daily actions is highly valued. Whether it is a small gift from a friend or a brief conversation with a stranger, if it touches the heart, it is described as 의미있다.
Productivity vs. Significance: While '보람차다' (boram-chada) focuses on the feeling of accomplishment after hard work, 의미있다 focuses on the inherent value or the 'why' behind an action. It is used when something aligns with one's values or changes one's perspective.

우리 가족과 보낸 시간은 정말 의미있었어요. (The time spent with my family was truly meaningful.)

You will hear this word constantly in reflective contexts. If a student finishes a difficult semester, they might not say it was 'fun' (재미있다), but they will certainly say it was 의미있다. It acknowledges the struggle while highlighting the growth that came from it. It is also the go-to word for discussing gifts. A 'meaningful gift' (의미있는 선물) isn't necessarily expensive; it is something that carries a story or a specific intention from the giver.

이 책은 저에게 아주 의미있는 책이에요. (This book is a very meaningful book to me.)

Philosophical Use: In academic or philosophical discussions, this word is used to denote that a specific phenomenon or data point has analytical importance or signifies a shift in trends.

Furthermore, the word is often used in the negative form 무의미하다 (mu-uimihada) to describe something pointless or futile. Understanding '의미있다' allows you to navigate the spectrum of value in Korean society, from the trivial to the profound. It is a word that bridges the gap between the head and the heart, describing things that are logically important and emotionally touching simultaneously.

실패도 의미있는 경험이 될 수 있습니다. (Failure can also become a meaningful experience.)

Using 의미있다 correctly requires understanding its role as a descriptive verb (adjective) in Korean. Unlike English where 'meaningful' is purely an adjective, the Korean form behaves like a verb in terms of conjugation. You can use it at the end of a sentence to describe a subject, or you can use its modifier form to describe a noun directly.

Predicate Form (Ending a Sentence): When ending a sentence, you conjugate it based on politeness levels: 의미있어요 (polite), 의미있습니다 (formal), 의미있어 (informal).

그의 말은 항상 의미있어요. (His words are always meaningful.)

Modifier Form (Before a Noun): To say 'a meaningful [noun],' you use 의미있는. This is the most common way to use the word in daily life.

우리는 의미있는 대화를 나눴습니다. (We shared a meaningful conversation.)

One key grammatical point is the use of particles. Usually, the subject being described takes the particle 이/가 or 은/는. For example, '이 일은 저에게 의미있어요' (This work is meaningful to me). Here, '저에게' (to me) specifies the recipient of the meaning. You can also use adverbs like 정말 (really), 매우 (very), or 참 (truly) to intensify the feeling.

어제는 참 의미있는 날이었어요. (Yesterday was a truly meaningful day.)

In more advanced usage, you might see 의미있게 used as an adverb, meaning 'meaningfully.' For example, '시간을 의미있게 보내세요' (Spend your time meaningfully). This construction is perfect for giving advice or setting intentions. Whether you are describing a gift, a moment, a person, or a decision, the flexibility of 의미있다 allows you to express profound appreciation for the essence of things.

우리는 주말을 의미있게 보내기로 했어요. (We decided to spend the weekend meaningfully.)

The word 의미있다 is ubiquitous in Korean media and daily life, particularly in contexts that require reflection or emotional depth. If you watch Korean dramas (K-Dramas), you will often hear it during 'the realization scene'—that moment when a character understands the true value of a relationship or a sacrifice. It is a word of maturity.

In Variety Shows: In shows like 'You Quiz on the Block,' the hosts often ask guests about the most 의미있는 moment in their careers. It prompts a story that isn't just about success, but about personal growth and impact.

가장 의미있는 상은 무엇인가요? (What is the most meaningful award [to you]?)

In the workplace, a manager might describe a project as 의미있는 시도 (a meaningful attempt). This is a professional way of saying that even if the project didn't yield huge profits, the team learned something valuable or it set a precedent for the future. It provides a positive spin on effort.

팬들과의 만남은 언제나 의미있습니다. (Meeting with fans is always meaningful.)

You will also find it in news headlines. When a new law is passed or a diplomatic meeting occurs, journalists use 의미있는 진전 (meaningful progress) to signal that a significant step has been taken. In personal relationships, it is used during anniversaries or birthdays to acknowledge the time spent together. It is a word that validates the existence and effort of others, making it a powerful tool for social bonding in Korea.

이번 회담은 평화를 위한 의미있는 첫걸음입니다. (This summit is a meaningful first step for peace.)

While 의미있다 is a common word, learners often trip up on its nuance and its confusion with similar-sounding or similar-meaning words. The most common error is confusing it with 중요하다 (jungyohada), which means 'important.'

Confusion with '중요하다': Something can be important (중요하다) without being meaningful (의미있다). For example, paying taxes is important, but many people wouldn't call it 'meaningful.' Conversely, a child's drawing might not be 'important' to the world, but it is 'meaningful' to the parent.

❌ 이 시험은 저에게 의미있어요. (If you mean it's high stakes, use '중요해요' instead.)

Another mistake is using the verb 의미하다 (uimihada) when you want to use the adjective 의미있다. 의미하다 means 'to mean' or 'to signify' in a literal sense (e.g., 'Red means stop'). If you say '이 선물은 의미해요,' it sounds incomplete, like you are about to say what the gift signifies, rather than saying the gift itself is significant.

❌ 그 영화는 정말 의미해요. (Incorrect. Use '의미있어요'.)

Lastly, don't confuse it with 재미있다 (jaemi-itda). Beginners sometimes mix them up because they both end in '-있다'. 재미있다 is 'fun/interesting,' while 의미있다 is 'meaningful.' A documentary might not be 'fun' (재미있다), but it can be very 'meaningful' (의미있다). Choosing the right one shows you understand the emotional depth of the situation.

그 수업은 재미없었지만 의미있었어요. (That class wasn't fun, but it was meaningful.)

To truly master Korean, you should know the synonyms and nuances that surround 의미있다. Depending on the context—whether it's about work, emotions, or value—different words might be more appropriate.

뜻깊다 (tteut-gipda): Literally 'deep in meaning.' This is a more formal and profound version of 의미있다. It is often used for historical events, anniversaries, or life-changing experiences.
보람차다 (boram-chada): This refers to the feeling of rewarding satisfaction after doing something helpful or hard. While 의미있다 is the quality of the thing, 보람차다 is the feeling you get from it.

봉사 활동은 정말 보람찬 일이에요. (Volunteering is a truly rewarding task.)

가치있다 (gachi-itda): Meaning 'valuable' or 'worthwhile.' This is often used for investments, time, or efforts that yield a result of high worth. It is slightly more objective than the emotional 의미있다.
소중하다 (sojunghada): Meaning 'precious' or 'dear.' Use this when something is meaningful because you love it or care for it deeply, such as a family heirloom or a childhood friend.

오늘은 저에게 아주 뜻깊은 날입니다. (Today is a very profound/meaningful day for me.)

In academic contexts, you might also encounter 유의미하다 (yu-uimihada), which is a formal term often used in statistics or research to mean 'statistically significant.' Knowing these distinctions helps you transition from basic communication to nuanced, native-like expression.

How Formal Is It?

Dato curioso

The character 味 (taste) is used because, in East Asian philosophy, understanding the 'meaning' of something is often likened to savoring the 'flavor' of an experience or text.

Guía de pronunciación

UK /ui.mi.it.ta/

US /wi.mi.it.ta/

In Korean, stress is generally even across syllables, but the '있' syllable is slightly emphasized due to the double consonant.

Rima con

재미있다 (jaemi-itda) 가치있다 (gachi-itda) 맛있다 (masitda) 멋있다 (meositda) 용기있다 (yonggi-itda) 실력있다 (sillyeok-itda) 깊이있다 (gipi-itda) 무게있다 (muge-itda)

Errores comunes

Pronouncing '의' as 'ee' or 'eh'.
Forgetting the tense 't' sound at the end of '있'.
Merging '의' and '미' into one syllable.
Pronouncing '있다' as 'eeda' instead of 'it-ta'.
Failing to double the 't' sound in '다' after '있'.

Nivel de dificultad

Lectura 2/5

Easy to recognize once you know '의미' and '있다'.

Escritura 3/5

Requires correct use of the modifier '있는' vs the predicate '있다'.

Expresión oral 2/5

Commonly used in daily conversation, easy to pronounce.

Escucha 2/5

Clear pronunciation, often used in interviews and dramas.

Qué aprender después

Requisitos previos

의미 있다 없다 재미있다 선물

Aprende después

뜻깊다 가치있다 보람차다 소중하다 중요하다

Avanzado

의미심장하다 유의미하다 무의미하다 함축적이다 상징적이다

Gramática que debes saber

Adjective Modifier Form (~ㄴ/은/는)

의미있다 -> 의미있는 (의미있는 선물)

Adverbial Form (~게)

의미있다 -> 의미있게 (의미있게 보내다)

Past Tense (~았/었/였다)

의미있었다 (의미있었어요)

Polite Ending (~아요/어요)

의미있어요

Honorific Form (~으십니다)

의미있으십니다 (Rare, used for older people's words/actions)

Regístrate gratis para leer la explicación completa

Ejemplos por nivel

이 선물은 정말 의미있어요.

This gift is really meaningful.

의미있어요 is the polite present tense.

그날은 의미있는 날이었어요.

That day was a meaningful day.

의미있는 is the modifier form for the noun '날' (day).

한국 여행은 의미있었어요.

The trip to Korea was meaningful.

의미있었어요 is the polite past tense.

이 편지는 저에게 의미있어요.

This letter is meaningful to me.

저에게 means 'to me' or 'for me'.

의미있는 선물을 사고 싶어요.

I want to buy a meaningful gift.

의미있는 modifies the noun '선물'.

그의 이름은 의미있어요.

His name is meaningful.

의미있어요 describes the subject '이름' (name).

우리는 의미있는 시간을 보냈어요.

We spent a meaningful time.

시간을 보내다 means 'to spend time'.

이 꽃은 의미가 있어요.

This flower has a meaning.

의미가 있어요 is another way to say 'there is a meaning'.

가족과 함께하는 시간은 항상 의미있어요.

Time with family is always meaningful.

함께하는 (being together) modifies '시간'.

저는 의미있는 일을 하고 싶습니다.

I want to do meaningful work.

의미있는 modifies '일' (work/task).

그 영화는 저에게 아주 의미있는 영화예요.

That movie is a very meaningful movie to me.

의미있는 modifies '영화' (movie).

생일에 의미있는 선물을 받았어요.

I received a meaningful gift on my birthday.

의미있는 modifies '선물'.

이 사진은 저에게 정말 의미있어요.

This photo is really meaningful to me.

의미있어요 acts as the predicate.

의미있는 경험을 많이 하고 싶어요.

I want to have many meaningful experiences.

많이 (many/a lot) modifies the verb '하고 싶어요'.

그의 조언은 저에게 큰 의미가 있었어요.

His advice had a big meaning to me.

큰 의미가 있었다 is a variation meaning 'had great significance'.

우리는 의미있는 대화를 나눴습니다.

We shared a meaningful conversation.

나눴습니다 is the formal past tense of '나누다' (to share).

주말을 어떻게 하면 의미있게 보낼 수 있을까요?

How can I spend my weekend meaningfully?

의미있게 is the adverbial form of '의미있다'.

실패도 우리 인생에서 의미있는 과정입니다.

Failure is also a meaningful process in our lives.

의미있는 modifies '과정' (process).

그 행사는 저에게 매우 뜻깊고 의미있었습니다.

That event was very profound and meaningful to me.

뜻깊다 and 의미있다 are used together for emphasis.

돈보다는 의미있는 일을 찾는 것이 중요해요.

It is important to find meaningful work rather than money.

~는 것 makes the phrase 'finding meaningful work' into a noun.

이번 프로젝트는 팀원 모두에게 의미있는 도전이었습니다.

This project was a meaningful challenge for all team members.

의미있는 modifies '도전' (challenge).

작은 습관 하나가 인생을 의미있게 바꿀 수 있어요.

A single small habit can change your life meaningfully.

의미있게 modifies the verb '바꿀 수 있어요'.

그의 마지막 말은 참 의미심장하고 의미있었어요.

His last words were very pregnant with meaning and significant.

의미심장하다 means 'full of hidden meaning'.

우리는 의미있는 결과를 얻기 위해 노력했습니다.

We worked hard to achieve a meaningful result.

~기 위해 means 'in order to'.

이번 연구 결과는 학술적으로 매우 의미있는 발견입니다.

This research result is a very meaningful discovery academically.

학술적으로 means 'academically'.

단순히 오래 사는 것보다 의미있게 사는 것이 더 중요합니다.

Living meaningfully is more important than simply living a long time.

~보다 is the comparison particle 'than'.

이 책은 현대 사회에 의미있는 메시지를 던지고 있어요.

This book is throwing a meaningful message to modern society.

메시지를 던지다 is an idiom meaning 'to deliver a message'.

그의 기부는 사회적으로 큰 의미가 있는 행동이었습니다.

His donation was an action with great social significance.

사회적으로 means 'socially'.

우리는 환경 보호를 위해 의미있는 첫걸음을 뗐습니다.

We took a meaningful first step for environmental protection.

첫걸음을 떼다 is an idiom for 'taking the first step'.

과거의 아픔도 지금의 나를 만드는 의미있는 거름이 됩니다.

Past pain also becomes meaningful fertilizer that makes me who I am now.

거름 (fertilizer) is used metaphorically here.

그 배우는 의미있는 역할을 맡기 위해 신중하게 대본을 골라요.

That actor carefully chooses scripts to take on meaningful roles.

맡다 means 'to take on' or 'to assume' a role.

이 토론은 서로의 차이를 이해하는 의미있는 시간이 될 것입니다.

This discussion will be a meaningful time to understand each other's differences.

~을 것입니다 indicates a future state.

역사적 관점에서 볼 때, 이 사건은 매우 의미있는 전환점입니다.

From a historical perspective, this event is a very meaningful turning point.

전환점 means 'turning point'.

예술가는 작품을 통해 삶의 의미있는 순간들을 포착하려고 노력합니다.

Artists try to capture meaningful moments of life through their works.

포착하다 means 'to capture' or 'to seize'.

이 데이터는 통계적으로 유의미하며, 정책 결정에 의미있는 근거가 됩니다.

This data is statistically significant and provides a meaningful basis for policy decisions.

유의미하다 is the technical term for 'significant'.

인간은 끊임없이 자신의 존재를 의미있게 증명하려고 합니다.

Humans constantly try to prove their existence meaningfully.

증명하다 means 'to prove'.

그의 침묵은 그 어떤 말보다 더 의미있게 다가왔습니다.

His silence came across more meaningfully than any words.

다가오다 literally means 'to approach' but here means 'to be perceived'.

우리는 기술의 발전이 인류에게 의미있는 혜택을 주는지 고민해야 합니다.

We must consider whether technological advancements provide meaningful benefits to humanity.

혜택 means 'benefit' or 'blessing'.

이 소설의 결말은 독자들에게 의미있는 질문을 던집니다.

The ending of this novel poses a meaningful question to the readers.

질문을 던지다 means 'to pose/ask a question'.

전통을 계승하는 것은 세대 간의 의미있는 연결 고리를 만드는 일입니다.

Inheriting tradition is about creating a meaningful link between generations.

연결 고리 means 'link' or 'connection'.

실존주의 철학은 무의미한 우주 속에서 의미있는 삶을 구축하는 인간의 고군분투를 다룹니다.

Existentialist philosophy deals with the struggle of humans to construct a meaningful life in a meaningless universe.

고군분투 means 'a lonely, hard struggle'.

언어의 자의성에도 불구하고, 우리는 기표와 기의 사이에서 의미있는 소통을 이뤄냅니다.

Despite the arbitrariness of language, we achieve meaningful communication between the signifier and the signified.

자의성 means 'arbitrariness'; 기표/기의 are Saussurean terms.

이 건축물은 공간의 미학을 넘어 도시 재생의 의미있는 이정표가 되었습니다.

This building has become a meaningful milestone for urban regeneration, beyond the aesthetics of space.

이정표 means 'milestone' or 'landmark'.

고전 문학의 가치는 시대를 초월하여 현대인들에게도 의미있는 성찰의 기회를 제공한다는 점에 있습니다.

The value of classic literature lies in the fact that it provides meaningful opportunities for reflection to modern people, transcending eras.

성찰 means 'reflection' or 'introspection'.

정치적 무관심을 극복하고 의미있는 민주주의를 실현하기 위해서는 시민들의 참여가 필수적입니다.

Citizen participation is essential to overcome political apathy and realize a meaningful democracy.

무관심 means 'apathy' or 'indifference'.

양자역학의 발견은 물리학의 패러다임을 바꾼 가장 의미있는 지적 도약 중 하나입니다.

The discovery of quantum mechanics is one of the most meaningful intellectual leaps that changed the paradigm of physics.

지적 도약 means 'intellectual leap'.

그의 일생은 타인을 위한 헌신으로 점철된, 참으로 의미있는 삶의 전형이었습니다.

His life, punctuated by devotion to others, was truly the epitome of a meaningful life.

점철되다 means 'to be punctuated/studded with'.

현대 미술에서 작가의 의도는 관객의 해석과 만날 때 비로소 의미있는 예술적 경험으로 완성됩니다.

In modern art, the artist's intention is only completed as a meaningful artistic experience when it meets the viewer's interpretation.

비로소 means 'finally' or 'only then'.

Colocaciones comunes

의미있는 시간

의미있는 선물

의미있는 일

의미있는 경험

의미있는 결과

의미있는 대화

의미있는 삶

의미있는 시도

의미있는 변화

의미있는 관계

Frases Comunes

의미있게 보내다

— To spend (time) meaningfully. Used when suggesting someone use their time well.

남은 방학을 의미있게 보내세요.

의미를 부여하다

— To attach meaning to something. Used when finding significance in something small.

작은 일에도 의미를 부여하면 삶이 즐거워요.

의미심장한 말

— A remark full of meaning. Usually implies a hidden message or depth.

선생님은 의미심장한 말을 남기고 떠나셨다.

의미가 깊다

— To have deep meaning. Similar to '의미있다' but emphasizes the depth.

이 전통은 역사가 길고 의미가 깊어요.

아무 의미 없다

— It means nothing. Used to dismiss something as pointless.

그의 사과는 이제 아무 의미 없어요.

의미를 찾다

— To look for meaning. Used in the context of life goals or understanding a situation.

고난 속에서도 의미를 찾는 것이 중요합니다.

의미있는 한 걸음

— A meaningful step. Often used for the start of a new project or movement.

오늘 우리는 의미있는 한 걸음을 내디뎠습니다.

의미를 전달하다

— To convey a meaning. Used in communication or art.

이 그림은 평화의 의미를 전달하고 있어요.

의미가 남다르다

— To have a special/unique meaning. Used when something is uniquely significant to someone.

이 장소는 저에게 의미가 남달라요.

의미를 깨닫다

— To realize the meaning. Used when understanding the value of something later on.

시간이 흐른 뒤에야 그 일의 의미를 깨달았어요.

Se confunde a menudo con

의미있다 vs 중요하다

중요하다 is 'important' (necessity/priority), while 의미있다 is 'meaningful' (value/significance).

의미있다 vs 의미하다

의미하다 is the verb 'to mean' (literal sign), whereas 의미있다 is the adjective 'to be meaningful'.

의미있다 vs 재미있다

재미있다 is 'fun' (entertainment), whereas 의미있다 is 'meaningful' (depth).

Modismos y expresiones

"의미를 두다"

— To place importance on something. Similar to 'valuing' something specific.

저는 결과보다 과정에 의미를 둡니다.

Neutral

"의미심장한 미소"

— A smile that suggests the person knows something you don't.

그녀는 의미심장한 미소를 지으며 나를 쳐다봤다.

Literary

"의미있는 자국을 남기다"

— To leave a meaningful mark/trace. Used for legacy or impact.

그는 과학계에 의미있는 자국을 남겼다.

Formal

"의미를 되새기다"

— To reflect on the meaning. Used during ceremonies or after deep experiences.

우리는 광복절의 의미를 되새겨야 합니다.

Formal

"의미가 퇴색되다"

— For the meaning to fade or be lost. Used when the original intent is forgotten.

상업화로 인해 축제의 의미가 퇴색되었다.

Formal/Journalistic

"말 한마디에 의미가 있다"

— Every word has a meaning. Used to describe someone who speaks carefully.

그분의 말 한마디 한마디에는 큰 의미가 담겨 있다.

Respectful

"의미를 파악하다"

— To grasp the meaning. Used for understanding underlying intents.

상대방의 의도와 의미를 정확히 파악해야 해요.

Neutral

"의미를 상실하다"

— To lose meaning. Used for things that have become pointless.

목표가 없으면 삶은 의미를 상실하기 쉽습니다.

Academic/Philosophical

"의미가 통하다"

— To make sense or for meanings to align. Used in communication.

언어는 달라도 마음으로 의미가 통해요.

Neutral

"의미를 함축하다"

— To imply or contain a meaning within. Used for poetry or deep speech.

이 시는 인간의 고독이라는 의미를 함축하고 있다.

Literary

Fácil de confundir

의미있다 vs 뜻깊다

Both mean 'meaningful'.

뜻깊다 is more formal and used for deeper, often historical or life-altering events. 의미있다 is more versatile and common.

졸업식은 참 뜻깊은 날이에요. / 이 선물은 의미있어요.

의미있다 vs 가치있다

Both imply worth.

가치있다 focuses on objective value or benefit. 의미있다 focuses on subjective or emotional significance.

이 투자는 가치있어요. / 이 편지는 의미있어요.

의미있다 vs 보람차다

Both describe positive experiences.

보람차다 describes the 'rewarding' feeling after hard work. 의미있다 describes the 'significance' of the thing itself.

오늘 하루는 보람찼어요. / 오늘 회의는 의미있었어요.

의미있다 vs 유익하다

Both imply a positive outcome.

유익하다 means 'beneficial' or 'informative'. 의미있다 means 'meaningful'.

그 책은 유익해요. / 그 책은 의미있어요.

의미있다 vs 특별하다

Meaningful things are usually special.

특별하다 means 'unusual' or 'unique'. 의미있다 means 'full of meaning'.

이 요리는 특별해요. / 이 요리는 어머니가 해주셔서 의미있어요.

Patrones de oraciones

[Noun] + 은/는 의미있어요.

이 책은 의미있어요.

의미있는 + [Noun] + 을/를 + [Verb]

의미있는 선물을 샀어요.

시간을 의미있게 보내다

주말을 의미있게 보냈어요.

[Noun] + 은/는 저에게 큰 의미가 있어요.

가족은 저에게 큰 의미가 있어요.

사회적으로/역사적으로 의미있는 [Noun]

사회적으로 의미있는 변화입니다.

[Noun] + 의 의미를 되새기다

자유의 의미를 되새겨 봅시다.

[Person] + 에게 의미있는 [Noun]

친구에게 의미있는 선물이에요.

의미있는 일을 하는 것

의미있는 일을 하는 것은 즐거워요.

Familia de palabras

Sustantivos

의미 (meaning)

무의미 (meaninglessness)

유의미 (significance)

의미론 (semantics)

Verbos

의미하다 (to mean/signify)

Adjetivos

의미심장하다 (meaningful/pregnant with meaning)

무의미하다 (meaningless)

유의미하다 (statistically significant)

Relacionado

뜻 (meaning/intent)

가치 (value)

보람 (reward/worth)

중요 (importance)

내용 (content)

Regístrate gratis para ver todos los ejemplos

Cómo usarlo

frequency

Very High in both spoken and written Korean.

Errores comunes

Using '의미하다' to mean 'meaningful'. → 의미있다
의미하다 is a verb meaning 'to signify.' 의미있다 is the adjective.
Saying '의미있은 선물'. → 의미있는 선물
Adjectives ending in '있다' always use '있는' as a modifier.
Confusing it with '중요하다' for a deadline. → 중요하다
A deadline is 'important' (중요하다), not necessarily 'meaningful' (의미있다).
Using '의미있다' for 'funny'. → 재미있다
재미있다 is 'fun/funny.' 의미있다 is 'significant.'
Pronouncing '의' as 'eh'. → ui
The '의' sound is distinct and should be practiced carefully.

Consejos

Use it for Gifts

When receiving a gift, say '의미있는 선물 고마워요' to show you appreciate the thought behind it.

Modifier Form

Remember to use '의미있는' before a noun, like '의미있는 시간'.

Not just 'Fun'

If a movie was sad but made you think, call it '의미있는 영화' instead of '재미있는 영화'.

Sound Sincere

Using '의미있다' makes your Korean sound more mature and emotionally intelligent.

Learn the Antonym

'무의미하다' is the formal way to say something is pointless.

Tense Ending

The '다' in '의미있다' is pronounced with a strong 'tt' sound.

Technical Use

Use '유의미하다' in research papers or statistical discussions.

Journaling

End your day by writing about one '의미있는' thing that happened.

Vs. Important

Don't say '의미있다' for a math test unless it actually changed your life perspective.

Placing Meaning

'의미를 두다' is a great phrase for saying 'I value this'.

Memorízalo

Mnemotecnia

Imagine you are eating a meal. '의미' sounds like 'U + Me'. If 'U and Me' have a meal with 'Taste' (味), it becomes 'Meaningful'.

Asociación visual

Picture a gift box with a heart inside it, rather than money. The heart represents the '의미' (meaning) that '있다' (exists) inside the gift.

Word Web

의미 (Meaning) 있다 (To have) 선물 (Gift) 시간 (Time) 경험 (Experience) 가치 (Value) 보람 (Reward) 삶 (Life)

Desafío

Try to describe three things in your room that are '의미있다' and explain why using the phrase '~에게 의미있어요'.

Origen de la palabra

의미 (意味) is derived from Hanja (Chinese characters). 意 (의) means 'thought, intent, or will,' and 味 (미) means 'taste, flavor, or significance.'

Significado original: The original Hanja combination suggests 'the flavor of one's intent' or the underlying essence of a thought.

Sino-Korean (Hanja roots with native Korean grammar).

Contexto cultural

When someone shares something '의미있다' with you, it is a sign of trust. Respond with '뜻깊네요' or '정말 좋네요' to show respect.

In English, we might say 'it means a lot,' which is the closest emotional equivalent to '의미있어요'.

The movie 'Parasite' uses the word '의미심장하다' to describe certain objects and events that have hidden class-related meanings. K-Pop lyrics often use '의미' to describe the relationship between the artist and the fans (ARMY, BLINK, etc.). Many Korean self-help books focus on '의미있는 삶' (A meaningful life).

Practica en la vida real

Contextos reales

Receiving a gift

정말 의미있는 선물이에요.
저에게 큰 의미가 있어요.
의미있게 잘 쓸게요.
이런 의미있는 걸 주셔서 감사해요.

Reflecting on a trip

정말 의미있는 여행이었어요.
많은 것을 배운 의미있는 시간이었어요.
의미있는 경험을 많이 했어요.
다시 가고 싶을 만큼 의미있어요.

Discussing a job or project

이 일은 저에게 의미있습니다.
의미있는 결과를 내고 싶어요.
팀원들과 의미있는 시간을 보냈어요.
의미있는 시도였다고 생각합니다.

Watching a movie or reading a book

메시지가 정말 의미있어요.
의미있는 장면이 많았어요.
저에게 의미있는 책이에요.
생각할 거리가 많은 의미있는 영화예요.

Giving advice

시간을 의미있게 보내세요.
의미있는 일을 찾아보세요.
작은 것에서도 의미를 찾아보세요.
의미있는 삶을 사는 것이 중요해요.

Inicios de conversación

"최근에 가장 의미있었던 경험은 무엇인가요?"

"당신에게 가장 의미있는 물건은 무엇인가요?"

"어떻게 하면 하루를 더 의미있게 보낼 수 있을까요?"

"가장 의미있는 선물은 무엇을 받았을 때였나요?"

"당신에게 '의미있는 삶'이란 무엇인가요?"

Temas para diario

오늘 하루 중 가장 의미있었던 순간에 대해 써 보세요.

나에게 의미있는 사람 세 명과 그 이유를 적어 보세요.

앞으로 1년 동안 하고 싶은 의미있는 일들에 대해 계획해 보세요.

과거의 힘들었던 경험이 지금 나에게 어떻게 의미있는지 적어 보세요.

내가 다른 사람에게 의미있는 사람이 되기 위해 할 수 있는 일은 무엇일까요?

Preguntas frecuentes

10 preguntas

Yes, you can say '그는 저에게 의미있는 사람이에요' (He is a meaningful person to me). This implies the person is important and has a significant impact on your life.

They are essentially the same. '의미가 있다' is the full phrase 'there is meaning,' while '의미있다' is the contracted adjective form. In speech, '의미있다' is more common.

Yes, it is perfectly appropriate. You would use the formal ending: '의미있습니다'. For academic contexts, '유의미하다' might be even better.

Only if that textbook changed your life. If it's just a good source of info, '유익한 책' (beneficial book) is better.

You can use '무의미하다' (formal) or '의미없다' (casual/neutral).

Usually, it's used as an adverb before a verb, like '의미있게 시작해요' (Let's start meaningfully). It's not typically a standalone sentence starter like 'Interestingly...'.

Etymologically, yes! The '미' in '의미' is the same '미' (味) in '맛' (taste). It's like the 'taste of meaning'.

Use '뜻깊다' for big milestones like graduations, weddings, or national holidays.

Yes, you can say '실패도 의미있다' (Failure is also meaningful), meaning there's a lesson to be learned.

Very often! It's used to describe the bond between idols and fans or the meaning of their journey.

Regístrate gratis para ver consejos y notas