At the A1 level, learners are introduced to '안전하다' as a basic descriptive word to talk about their immediate surroundings. You learn to say simple sentences like '이곳은 안전해요' (This place is safe) or '집이 안전해요' (Home is safe). The focus is on recognizing the word and understanding its core meaning in contrast to '위험하다' (dangerous). You will use it to describe familiar places like your school, neighborhood, or a park. It's essential for basic survival Korean, allowing you to ask if a place is okay to visit or to reassure someone that you are fine. At this stage, you don't need to worry about complex grammar; just knowing how to use it with basic subject particles (이/가) is enough to communicate effectively.
In the A2 level, you start using '안전하다' in more practical, everyday situations, such as traveling or giving simple advice. You learn the noun-modifying form '안전한' to say things like '안전한 여행' (safe trip) or '안전한 길' (safe road). You also begin to use the adverbial form '안전하게' with common action verbs, such as '안전하게 가세요' (Go safely). The contexts expand to include transportation, weather, and basic health. You can understand simple public announcements or signs that use the word. You also start forming negative sentences, like '여기는 안전하지 않아요' (It's not safe here), allowing you to express warnings or concerns about your environment.
At the B1 level, '안전하다' becomes a tool for discussing broader topics like city life, technology, and society, which are common themes in proficiency exams like TOPIK or IELTS. You can articulate why a place is safe, using conjunctions like '기 때문에' (because). You discuss digital safety, such as '안전한 비밀번호' (safe password) or '개인정보 보호' (personal data protection). You also differentiate between physical safety and emotional relief (안심하다). Your sentences become more complex, combining '안전하다' with other grammatical structures to express opinions, make comparisons (e.g., '비행기가 기차보다 안전하다'), and provide detailed recommendations based on safety considerations.
By the B2 level, your use of '안전하다' is nuanced and flexible. You can engage in debates about public policy, national security, or workplace safety regulations. You understand and use related abstract nouns like '안전성' (safety/reliability) and '안전보장' (security guarantee). You can discuss the balance between convenience and safety in modern technology. Your vocabulary includes collocations like '안전을 확보하다' (to secure safety) or '안전 수칙을 지키다' (to follow safety rules). You can comfortably read news articles or reports that analyze safety statistics or discuss the implications of a security breach, using the word in both formal and informal registers effortlessly.
At the C1 level, '안전하다' is used in highly academic, professional, or abstract contexts. You can write essays or give presentations on topics like international security, cyber warfare, or psychological safety in organizational behavior. You understand subtle implications and idiomatic uses related to safety. You can critique safety measures, propose comprehensive security frameworks, and use advanced vocabulary interchangeably, knowing exactly when to use '안전하다' versus '안정적이다' (stable) or '무사하다' (unharmed). Your command of the language allows you to express complex, multi-layered arguments about risk management and societal well-being with native-like fluency.
At the C2 mastery level, your understanding of '안전하다' encompasses its cultural, historical, and literary dimensions in Korean society. You can analyze how the concept of safety is portrayed in Korean media, literature, or political discourse. You effortlessly navigate complex legal or technical documents regarding safety standards. You can use the word creatively in metaphors or rhetorical devices. Your ability to discuss safety is indistinguishable from a highly educated native speaker, allowing you to participate in philosophical discussions about the illusion of safety, the ethics of surveillance for security, and the fundamental human need for a safe environment.

안전하다 en 30 segundos

  • Describes a state free from danger or risk.
  • Used for physical, digital, and emotional security.
  • An adjective (descriptive verb) in Korean grammar.
  • Antonym is 위험하다 (to be dangerous).

The Korean adjective 안전하다 (an-jeon-ha-da) translates to 'to be safe' or 'to be secure.' It is a fundamental vocabulary word used to describe a state free from danger, risk, or harm. Understanding this word is crucial for daily life, travel, and discussing broader topics like technology, city infrastructure, and personal well-being. When you use 안전하다, you are expressing that a situation, place, object, or person is protected and not exposed to potential negative consequences. This concept extends across various domains, from physical safety in a neighborhood to digital security online.

Physical Safety
Refers to environments like cities, streets, or buildings that are free from crime or accidents.

이 도시는 밤에 걸어 다녀도 매우 안전하다.

In the context of travel, which is a common IELTS topic, discussing how safe a destination is often involves this word. You might describe a country as having a low crime rate, making it '안전한 나라' (a safe country). Furthermore, in modern society, the concept of safety has evolved to include digital spaces. Cybersecurity, data protection, and online privacy are frequently discussed using the root word 안전.

Digital Security
Describes systems, passwords, or networks that are protected from hackers or data breaches.

이 웹사이트는 결제하기에 안전하다.

Another important aspect is emotional or psychological safety. Being in a safe space where one can express thoughts without judgment is highly valued. Whether discussing workplace environments, family dynamics, or friendships, feeling safe is a universal human need. The versatility of 안전하다 allows it to be applied to all these scenarios seamlessly. It is a descriptive verb (adjective) in Korean, meaning it conjugates like other adjectives rather than action verbs.

Psychological Safety
The feeling of being secure in one's environment, free from emotional harm or severe stress.

가족과 함께 있을 때 가장 안전하다고 느낀다.

When preparing for language proficiency exams, demonstrating a nuanced understanding of words like 안전하다 can significantly boost your score. It shows you can discuss complex societal issues, such as the balance between privacy and national security, or the safety measures required in urban planning. The word is deeply embedded in public service announcements, traffic signs, and daily conversations, making it an indispensable part of your Korean vocabulary arsenal.

비행기를 타는 것은 자동차보다 통계적으로 안전하다.

백신을 맞는 것이 질병을 예방하는 데 안전하다.

Using 안전하다 correctly requires understanding its grammatical nature as a descriptive verb (adjective) in Korean. Unlike action verbs, descriptive verbs cannot take an object with the particle 을/를. Instead, the subject of the sentence, marked by 이/가 or 은/는, is the entity that possesses the quality of being safe. For example, you say '이곳이 안전하다' (This place is safe), not '이곳을 안전하다'. This is a fundamental rule that learners must internalize to sound natural.

Present Tense Conjugation
Formal: 안전합니다. Polite: 안전해요. Casual: 안전해.

우리 동네는 매우 안전합니다.

To modify a noun, 안전하다 changes to 안전한. This is used when you want to say 'a safe place' (안전한 곳) or 'a safe method' (안전한 방법). This noun-modifying form is incredibly common in written and spoken Korean. When discussing plans, giving advice, or evaluating options, you will frequently use 안전한 to describe the preferred choice. For instance, when choosing a password, a website might prompt you to create an '안전한 비밀번호' (safe password).

Noun Modifier Form
안전한 (Safe) + Noun. Example: 안전한 여행 (Safe travel).

가장 안전한 길로 가세요.

If you want to describe how an action is performed, you must use the adverbial form, 안전하게 (safely). This is paired with action verbs. For example, '안전하게 운전하세요' means 'Drive safely.' You cannot say '안전하다 운전하세요'. Understanding the distinction between the adjective form (describing a state) and the adverbial form (describing an action) is a key milestone for B1 learners. It allows for much more precise and grammatically correct communication.

Adverbial Form
안전하게 (Safely) + Action Verb. Example: 안전하게 도착하다 (To arrive safely).

집에 안전하게 도착했어요.

When forming negative sentences, you have two main options: the long form (안전하지 않다) and the short form (안 안전하다). The long form is generally preferred in writing and formal speech, while the short form is common in casual conversation. For example, '이 다리는 안전하지 않아요' (This bridge is not safe). Mastering these conjugations and forms ensures that you can discuss safety in any context, from casual chats with friends to formal presentations or essays.

밤늦게 혼자 걷는 것은 안전하지 않다.

이 파일은 바이러스로부터 안전합니다.

The word 안전하다 is ubiquitous in Korean society, reflecting a culture that places a high value on public safety, security, and well-being. You will encounter this word in almost every facet of daily life in South Korea. One of the most common places you will hear or see it is on public transportation. Subways, buses, and trains frequently broadcast announcements reminding passengers to hold onto handrails or stand behind the safety line, using phrases that incorporate the concept of safety to ensure a smooth journey for everyone.

Public Transportation
Announcements on trains and buses frequently use safety terminology to guide passengers.

승객 여러분의 안전한 여행을 위해 손잡이를 잡아주세요.

Another prominent context is news broadcasts and weather reports. South Korea experiences distinct seasons, including a monsoon season with heavy rains and occasional typhoons. During these times, news anchors constantly provide updates on which areas are safe and which are dangerous. They will advise citizens to stay indoors or move to safe locations. Similarly, discussions about national security, crime rates, and public health policies heavily rely on the vocabulary of safety to inform and reassure the public.

News and Weather
Used to describe the status of natural disasters, crime, or public health emergencies.

태풍이 지나갈 때까지 실내에 머무는 것이 안전합니다.

In the digital realm, as South Korea is one of the most connected countries in the world, online safety is a massive topic. E-commerce sites, banking apps, and social media platforms constantly reassure users that their data is secure. You will see pop-ups and notifications confirming that a transaction was completed safely or that a connection is secure. The phrase '안전결제' (safe payment) is a standard feature on online marketplaces to protect buyers and sellers from fraud.

E-commerce and Tech
Used to assure users of data privacy, secure transactions, and verified identities.

고객님의 개인정보는 안전하게 보호됩니다.

Finally, in everyday social interactions, expressing concern for someone's safety is a common way to show care and affection. When parting ways after a late-night gathering, friends will tell each other to get home safely. Parents remind their children to play safely. This social usage highlights how safety is not just a physical or digital concept, but a deeply ingrained aspect of interpersonal relationships and community care in Korean culture.

길이 미끄러우니 안전하게 운전해.

이 놀이기구는 아이들이 타기에 안전하다.

One of the most frequent mistakes learners make with 안전하다 is treating it as an action verb rather than a descriptive verb (adjective). Because the English translation 'to secure' or 'to make safe' implies action, learners sometimes try to use the object particle 을/를 with it. For example, saying '집을 안전해요' is incorrect. The correct phrasing is '집이 안전해요' (The house is safe). Remember that descriptive verbs describe the state of the subject, so they require subject particles (이/가 or 은/는).

Particle Errors
Using object particles (을/를) instead of subject particles (이/가) with descriptive verbs.

Incorrect: 거리를 안전하다. Correct: 거리가 안전하다.

Another common pitfall is confusing the adjective form (안전한) with the adverbial form (안전하게). When you want to modify a noun, you must use 안전한. For instance, 'a safe car' is '안전한 차'. When you want to describe how an action is performed, you must use 안전하게. For example, 'drive safely' is '안전하게 운전하다'. Using '안전한 운전하다' or '안전하게 차' sounds very unnatural and confusing to native speakers. Mastering this distinction is vital for clear communication.

Adjective vs. Adverb
Mixing up 안전한 (modifies nouns) and 안전하게 (modifies verbs).

Incorrect: 안전한 도착하세요. Correct: 안전하게 도착하세요.

Learners also sometimes confuse 안전하다 with similar-sounding or related words, such as 안정되다 (to be stable). While a safe situation is often stable, they are not always interchangeable. For example, you would say a patient's condition is '안정적이다' (stable), not necessarily '안전하다' (safe from external threat). Similarly, economic stability is '경제적 안정', not '경제적 안전'. Understanding the nuances between safety (protection from harm) and stability (lack of fluctuation) will elevate your Korean proficiency.

Vocabulary Confusion
Using 안전하다 (safe) when 안정되다/안정적이다 (stable) is more appropriate.

물가가 안정되었다. (Prices have stabilized - Correct context).

Lastly, pronunciation can sometimes be a slight issue. The double consonant sound in '전' requires a slightly tense pronunciation, and the 'ㅎ' in '하다' often weakens in fast speech, making it sound more like '안저나다'. While native speakers will usually understand you regardless, practicing the natural flow and liaison of the sounds will make your spoken Korean sound much more fluent and natural. Always pay attention to how native speakers blend the syllables in everyday conversation.

발음을 안전하게 연습하세요. (Practice pronunciation securely).

이곳은 아이들에게 안전하다.

Expanding your vocabulary around the concept of safety will help you express yourself more precisely. While 안전하다 is the most general and widely used term for 'safe,' there are several synonyms and related words that carry slightly different nuances. For example, 무사하다 (mu-sa-ha-da) means 'to be safe and sound' or 'to be unharmed.' It is often used after a dangerous event has passed, to express relief that someone survived without injury. You would ask '무사해요?' (Are you unharmed?) after an accident.

무사하다 (To be unharmed)
Focuses on the state of being intact or uninjured after a specific risk or event.

사고가 났지만 모두 무사하다.

Another related concept is 튼튼하다 (teun-teun-ha-da), which means 'to be sturdy, strong, or solid.' While it doesn't directly mean 'safe,' a sturdy building or a strong bridge provides safety. Therefore, 튼튼하다 is often used in contexts where physical strength ensures security. For instance, you might say a lock is 튼튼하다 to imply that it keeps your belongings safe. Understanding how physical durability relates to the abstract concept of safety is useful for descriptive writing.

튼튼하다 (To be sturdy)
Describes physical strength and durability, which indirectly provides safety.

이 다리는 매우 튼튼해서 안전하다.

We also have 안심하다 (an-sim-ha-da), which means 'to feel relieved' or 'to have peace of mind.' This is the emotional counterpart to physical safety. When a situation is 안전하다 (safe), a person can 안심하다 (feel relieved). It describes the psychological state of being free from worry. For example, a parent might say '이제 안심이다' (I am relieved now) when their child returns home safely. Distinguishing between the objective state of safety and the subjective feeling of relief is a mark of advanced fluency.

안심하다 (To feel relieved)
Describes the psychological relief that comes from knowing a situation is safe.

네가 무사히 도착해서 안심했다.

Lastly, consider the antonym 위험하다 (wi-heom-ha-da), meaning 'to be dangerous.' This is the direct opposite of 안전하다 and is equally important to know. In any discussion about safety, you will inevitably need to contrast it with danger. Knowing both ends of the spectrum allows you to make comparisons, evaluate risks, and give comprehensive advice. For example, '이곳은 밤에 위험하니까 낮에 가는 것이 안전하다' (It's dangerous here at night, so it's safe to go during the day).

그곳은 매우 위험하다.

안전한 길과 위험한 길.

How Formal Is It?

Nivel de dificultad

Gramática que debes saber

Noun modifying form (-은/ㄴ): 안전한 + Noun

Adverbial form (-게): 안전하게 + Verb

Negative form (-지 않다 / 안): 안전하지 않다 / 안 안전하다

Reason/Cause (-아서/어서): 안전해서 (Because it is safe)

Contrast (-지만): 안전하지만 (It is safe, but...)

Ejemplos por nivel

1

여기는 안전해요.

It is safe here.

Polite present tense ending (-아요/어요).

2

집이 제일 안전합니다.

Home is the safest.

Formal present tense ending (-습니다).

3

이 길은 안전해요?

Is this road safe?

Question form using polite ending.

4

안전한 곳으로 가요.

Let's go to a safe place.

Noun modifier form (안전한).

5

밤에는 안 안전해요.

It is not safe at night.

Short negative form (안).

6

학교는 안전합니다.

School is safe.

Subject particle (는).

7

이 물은 안전해요.

This water is safe (to drink).

Describing an object's state.

8

안전하게 노세요.

Play safely.

Adverbial form (안전하게).

1

비행기를 타는 것은 안전해요.

Riding an airplane is safe.

Using -는 것 to make a noun phrase.

2

이 동네는 밤에도 안전합니다.

This neighborhood is safe even at night.

Even (도) particle.

3

안전하게 운전해 주세요.

Please drive safely.

Request form (-아/어 주세요).

4

혼자 여행하는 것은 안전하지 않아요.

Traveling alone is not safe.

Long negative form (-지 않다).

5

가장 안전한 방법을 찾으세요.

Find the safest method.

Superlative (가장).

6

안전벨트를 매는 것이 안전해요.

Wearing a seatbelt is safe.

Subject phrase with -는 것.

7

이 비밀번호는 안전합니까?

Is this password safe?

Formal question ending (-습니까).

8

태풍이 오면 집에 있는 것이 안전해요.

If a typhoon comes, staying home is safe.

Conditional (-으면).

1

인터넷에서 개인정보를 보호하는 것은 안전을 위해 중요합니다.

Protecting personal information on the internet is important for safety.

Using 안전 as a noun with 위해 (for).

2

이 도시는 범죄율이 낮아서 매우 안전한 편입니다.

This city has a low crime rate, so it is on the safe side.

Expressing tendency (-은/는 편이다).

3

아이들이 안전하게 놀 수 있는 공간이 필요해요.

We need a space where children can play safely.

Ability (-ㄹ 수 있다) modifying a noun.

4

지진이 났을 때 책상 밑으로 들어가는 것이 가장 안전합니다.

When an earthquake occurs, getting under a desk is the safest.

Time clause (-을 때).

5

그 회사의 시스템은 해킹으로부터 완전히 안전하다고 할 수 없습니다.

That company's system cannot be said to be completely safe from hacking.

Indirect quotation (-다고 하다).

6

안전한 여행을 위해 여행자 보험에 가입하는 것이 좋습니다.

It is good to buy travel insurance for a safe trip.

Recommendation (-는 것이 좋다).

7

이 약은 임산부가 복용해도 안전한 것으로 확인되었습니다.

This medicine has been confirmed to be safe even if pregnant women take it.

Concession (-아/어도).

8

밤늦게 귀가할 때는 택시를 타는 것이 더 안전할지도 몰라요.

When returning home late at night, taking a taxi might be safer.

Guess/Possibility (-ㄹ지도 모르다).

1

정부는 시민들이 안전하게 생활할 수 있도록 치안을 강화해야 합니다.

The government must strengthen public security so that citizens can live safely.

Purpose/Intention (-도록).

2

원자력 발전소의 안전성에 대한 논란이 계속되고 있습니다.

Controversy over the safety of nuclear power plants continues.

Abstract noun form (안전성).

3

아무리 안전한 시스템이라도 완벽하게 해킹을 막을 수는 없습니다.

No matter how safe a system is, it cannot perfectly prevent hacking.

Concessive structure (아무리 -아/어도).

4

작업장 내 안전 수칙을 준수하는 것은 선택이 아닌 필수입니다.

Observing safety rules in the workplace is not an option but a necessity.

Formal noun phrase subject.

5

자율주행 자동차가 상용화되기 위해서는 무엇보다 안전이 보장되어야 합니다.

For autonomous vehicles to be commercialized, safety must be guaranteed above all else.

Passive voice (보장되다).

6

금융 거래 시 이중 인증을 사용하는 것이 훨씬 더 안전합니다.

Using two-factor authentication during financial transactions is much safer.

Comparative emphasis (훨씬 더).

7

그 제품은 엄격한 안전 검사를 통과했기 때문에 안심하고 사용하셔도 됩니다.

Because that product passed strict safety inspections, you may use it with peace of mind.

Permission (-아/어도 되다).

8

사회적 안전망이 잘 갖춰진 나라일수록 국민들의 행복 지수가 높습니다.

The better equipped a country is with a social safety net, the higher the citizens' happiness index.

Proportional correlation (-ㄹ수록).

1

사이버 보안 위협이 고도화됨에 따라, 절대적으로 안전한 네트워크는 존재하지 않는다는 인식이 확산되고 있다.

As cyber security threats become more sophisticated, the perception that an absolutely safe network does not exist is spreading.

Formal written style (-ㄴ/는다).

2

국가 안보와 개인의 프라이버시 사이에서 어느 선까지가 안전한 타협점인지에 대한 사회적 합의가 필요하다.

A social consensus is needed on what constitutes a safe compromise between national security and individual privacy.

Complex noun phrase (안전한 타협점).

3

해당 화학 물질은 인체에 무해하며 장기간 노출되어도 안전하다는 임상 결과가 발표되었다.

Clinical results were published stating that the chemical substance is harmless to the human body and safe even with long-term exposure.

Indirect quotation in formal reporting.

4

조직 내 심리적 안전감이 확보되지 않으면 직원들의 창의적인 아이디어 도출을 기대하기 어렵다.

If psychological safety within an organization is not secured, it is difficult to expect the generation of creative ideas from employees.

Advanced vocabulary (심리적 안전감).

5

기후 변화로 인해 과거에는 안전하다고 여겨졌던 지역들조차 이제는 자연재해의 위협에 노출되어 있다.

Due to climate change, even areas that were considered safe in the past are now exposed to the threat of natural disasters.

Passive causative (-아/어지다).

6

투자 포트폴리오를 구성할 때, 수익률보다는 자산의 안전성을 최우선으로 고려하는 보수적인 접근이 요구된다.

When constructing an investment portfolio, a conservative approach that prioritizes the safety of assets over the rate of return is required.

Professional terminology (자산의 안전성).

7

인공지능 윤리 가이드라인은 AI 기술이 인류에게 안전하고 유익하게 활용되도록 하는 데 그 목적이 있다.

The purpose of AI ethics guidelines is to ensure that AI technology is utilized safely and beneficially for humanity.

Purpose clause (-도록 하는 데).

8

재난 발생 시 골든타임 내에 신속하고 안전하게 대피할 수 있는 매뉴얼의 실효성 점검이 시급하다.

It is urgent to check the effectiveness of the manual that allows for rapid and safe evacuation within the golden time in the event of a disaster.

Complex modifier structure.

1

현대 사회에서 완벽한 안전이란 환상에 불과하며, 우리는 끊임없이 진화하는 위험 요소를 관리하며 살아갈 수밖에 없다.

In modern society, perfect safety is merely an illusion, and we have no choice but to live while managing constantly evolving risk factors.

Philosophical assertion (-에 불과하다).

2

안전을 담보로 한 과도한 규제는 오히려 산업의 혁신 동력을 저해하는 역효과를 낳을 수 있음을 경계해야 한다.

We must be wary that excessive regulations holding safety as collateral can rather have the adverse effect of hindering the driving force of industrial innovation.

Advanced abstract reasoning.

3

그의 문학 작품 속에서 '집'은 물리적으로 안전한 도피처를 넘어, 실존적 불안으로부터 자아를 지탱하는 심리적 요새로 기능한다.

In his literary works, 'home' functions beyond a physically safe refuge as a psychological fortress that sustains the ego from existential anxiety.

Literary analysis vocabulary.

4

국제 사회는 핵 확산 방지 조약을 통해 전 지구적 차원의 안전 보장 체제를 구축하고자 끊임없이 노력해 왔다.

The international community has constantly strived to build a global-level security guarantee system through the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty.

Diplomatic and political register.

5

생명 윤리적 관점에서 볼 때, 유전자 조작 기술이 미래 세대에게 안전하다는 확증 없이 이를 상용화하는 것은 무책임한 처사이다.

From a bioethical perspective, commercializing genetic manipulation technology without confirmation that it is safe for future generations is an irresponsible act.

Ethical argumentation structure.

6

빅데이터 기반의 예측 치안 시스템은 범죄 예방을 통해 사회를 더 안전하게 만들 수 있다는 기대와, 감시 사회를 초래할 것이라는 우려를 동시에 낳고 있다.

Big data-based predictive policing systems simultaneously generate expectations that they can make society safer through crime prevention and concerns that they will bring about a surveillance society.

Balanced complex sentence structure.

7

팬데믹 상황에서 백신의 안전성과 유효성을 검증하는 과정은 과학적 엄밀성뿐만 아니라 대중의 신뢰를 얻기 위한 투명한 소통을 전제로 해야 한다.

In a pandemic situation, the process of verifying the safety and efficacy of vaccines must be premised not only on scientific rigor but also on transparent communication to gain public trust.

Public health policy discourse.

8

인간의 근원적인 안전 욕구는 타인과의 연대와 소속감을 통해 충족될 때 비로소 진정한 의미의 평안으로 이어진다.

Humanity's fundamental need for safety only leads to true peace when it is satisfied through solidarity and a sense of belonging with others.

Psychological and sociological phrasing.

Sinónimos

무사하다 평안하다 튼튼하다

Colocaciones comunes

안전한 장소
안전하게 운전하다
안전을 보장하다
안전을 지키다
안전이 최우선이다
안전한 방법
안전한 여행
안전 수칙
안전 요원
안전 벨트

Frases Comunes

안전하게 모시겠습니다
안전 제일
안전 운전 하세요
안전한 귀가
절대적으로 안전하다
안전을 확인하다
안전에 유의하다
안전 지대
안전 사고
안전망

Se confunde a menudo con

안전하다 vs 안정되다 (to be stable) - Used for economy, emotions, or medical conditions.

안전하다 vs 무사하다 (to be unharmed) - Used specifically after an event or accident.

안전하다 vs 튼튼하다 (to be sturdy) - Used for physical strength of objects.

Fácil de confundir

안전하다 vs

안전하다 vs

안전하다 vs

안전하다 vs

안전하다 vs

Patrones de oraciones

Cómo usarlo

nuance

Can refer to physical, digital, or emotional safety.

formality

Appropriate for all levels of formality.

colloquialisms

Often used in the phrase '안전빵' (slang for a safe bet or safe choice).

Errores comunes
  • Saying '집을 안전해요' instead of '집이 안전해요'.
  • Using '안전한 운전하세요' instead of '안전하게 운전하세요'.
  • Saying '마음이 안전해요' (My heart is safe) instead of '안심했어요' (I am relieved).
  • Confusing 안전 (safety) with 안정 (stability) in economic contexts.
  • Pronouncing it with a hard 'H' sound, making it sound disjointed.

Consejos

Subject Particles

Always use 이/가 or 은/는 with 안전하다. Never use 을/를. Example: 거리가 안전하다 (The street is safe).

Adjective vs Adverb

Use 안전한 before nouns (안전한 길). Use 안전하게 before verbs (안전하게 가다). Mixing them up sounds unnatural.

Safety First

You will see '안전 제일' (Safety First) signs everywhere in Korea. It's a great phrase to memorize for reading signs.

Smooth Sounds

In natural speech, the 'ㅎ' in 하다 becomes very weak. It sounds more like [안저나다]. Practice this for better fluency.

Expressing Relief

If you want to say 'I feel safe/relieved,' use 안심하다 instead of 안전하다. 안전하다 describes the environment, not your feelings.

Formal Writing

In TOPIK essays, use 안전성 (safety/reliability) to sound more academic. Example: 제품의 안전성 (The safety of the product).

Subway Announcements

Next time you ride public transport in Korea, listen carefully. You are guaranteed to hear '안전' multiple times.

Common Pairings

Memorize '안전 수칙' (safety rules) and '안전 사고' (safety accident). These are highly frequent in news reports.

Safe vs Stable

Don't confuse 안전 (safe from harm) with 안정 (stable/calm). A safe neighborhood is 안전한 동네. A stable economy is 안정적인 경제.

Safe Bet

Use '안전빵' with friends when choosing a reliable restaurant or making a safe choice in a game. It makes you sound like a native!

Memorízalo

Mnemotecnia

Imagine a safe (안전) that is completely whole (전) and peaceful (안), keeping your valuables secure.

Origen de la palabra

Sino-Korean

Contexto cultural

Joking about safety in serious situations (like airport security or during a typhoon) is highly frowned upon.

Universally understood across all dialects in Korea.

Use 안전합니다 in formal settings (news, announcements), 안전해요 in polite daily conversation, and 안전해 with close friends.

Practica en la vida real

Contextos reales

Inicios de conversación

"이 동네는 밤에 안전한 편인가요? (Is this neighborhood generally safe at night?)"

"비밀번호를 더 안전하게 만드는 방법이 있을까요? (Is there a way to make the password safer?)"

"혼자 여행하는 게 안전할까요? (Do you think it's safe to travel alone?)"

"인터넷 뱅킹은 정말 안전합니까? (Is internet banking really safe?)"

"어떻게 하면 자전거를 안전하게 탈 수 있죠? (How can I ride a bicycle safely?)"

Temas para diario

당신이 가장 안전하다고 느끼는 장소는 어디이며 그 이유는 무엇입니까? (Where is the place you feel safest and why?)

현대 사회에서 디지털 안전이 왜 중요한지 쓰세요. (Write about why digital safety is important in modern society.)

여행 중 안전을 위해 지켜야 할 수칙 3가지를 적어보세요. (Write down 3 rules to follow for safety while traveling.)

안전과 자유 중 어느 것이 더 중요하다고 생각합니까? (Which do you think is more important: safety or freedom?)

어렸을 때 부모님이 강조하셨던 안전 규칙은 무엇이었나요? (What safety rules did your parents emphasize when you were young?)

Preguntas frecuentes

10 preguntas

Yes, you can say '그 사람은 안전하다' to mean the person is safe from harm. However, if you mean a person is trustworthy or reliable, '믿을 수 있다' is better. If you mean they survived an accident, '무사하다' is more common.

안전 (Safety) is a broader term covering physical harm, accidents, and general well-being. 보안 (Security) is more specific to protecting systems, data, or facilities from intentional malicious acts, like hacking or theft. You have '안전 요원' (safety guard/lifeguard) and '보안 요원' (security guard).

You should use the adverbial form '안전하게' with the verb '운전하다' (to drive). So, '안전하게 운전하세요' is the correct and natural way to say 'Drive safely' in polite Korean.

It is a descriptive verb (adjective). This means it describes a state of being. Therefore, it takes subject particles (이/가) rather than object particles (을/를), and it conjugates differently from action verbs in certain grammar patterns.

It literally translates to 'safety insensibility syndrome.' It's a common term in Korean media used to criticize a societal or individual lack of awareness regarding safety rules, often cited as the root cause of preventable accidents.

Yes, this is a very common and polite way to wish someone a safe trip. '안전한' modifies the noun '여행' (trip), and '하세요' is the polite imperative form of 'to do'.

You can use the short form '안 안전하다' (less formal) or the long form '안전하지 않다' (more formal). Both mean 'not safe.' For example, '이곳은 안전하지 않아요' (This place is not safe).

The root noun is simply '안전' (safety). You can also use '안전성' to mean 'safety' in the sense of reliability or the degree of being safe, often used for products or systems.

'안전빵' is a slang term combining '안전' (safe) and '빵' (bread/hit). It refers to a 'safe bet,' a conservative choice, or a backup plan that is guaranteed not to fail, even if it's not the most exciting option.

A famous one is '돌다리도 두드려 보고 건너라' (Even a stone bridge should be tested by tapping before crossing). It means you should be careful and ensure safety even in situations that seem perfectly secure.

Ponte a prueba 200 preguntas

writing

Write 'It is safe' in polite Korean.

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

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Write 'Safe road' in Korean.

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¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Write 'Go safely' in Korean.

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¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Write 'Home is safe' in formal Korean.

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writing

Write 'It is not safe' (short form).

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¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Write 'Safety First' in Korean.

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

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Write 'Drive safely' in polite Korean.

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

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Write 'Safe trip' in Korean.

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¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Write 'It is not safe' (long form).

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¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Write 'Seatbelt' in Korean.

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¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Write 'Safety rules' in Korean.

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¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Write 'To guarantee safety' in Korean.

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¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Write 'Safety inspection' in Korean.

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¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Write 'Safety net' in Korean.

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¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Write 'Safe asset' in Korean.

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writing

Write 'Reliability/Safety' (abstract noun).

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writing

Write 'Insensibility to safety'.

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writing

Write 'To secure safety'.

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writing

Write 'Psychological safety'.

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¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Write 'Safety guarantee system'.

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¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Say 'It is safe' politely.

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Say 'Safe road'.

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Say 'Go safely'.

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Say 'It is not safe'.

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Say 'Safety'.

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Say 'Safety First'.

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Say 'Seatbelt'.

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Say 'Drive safely'.

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Say 'Safe trip'.

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Say 'It is dangerous' (Antonym).

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Say 'Safety rules'.

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Say 'I am relieved'.

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Say 'Safety net'.

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Say 'Safety inspection'.

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Say 'Safe asset'.

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Say 'To guarantee safety'.

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Say 'Reliability/Safety' (Noun).

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Say 'Insensibility to safety'.

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Say 'Psychological safety'.

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Say 'Security guarantee system'.

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Listen and translate: 안전해요.

Polite present

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¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Listen and translate: 안전한 길.

Modifier

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Listen and translate: 안전하게.

Adverb

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Listen and translate: 안전 제일.

Slogan

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Listen and translate: 안전벨트.

Car safety

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Listen and translate: 위험해요.

Antonym

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¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Listen and translate: 안전 수칙.

Guidelines

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Listen and translate: 안심하다.

Emotion

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Listen and translate: 안전망.

System

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Listen and translate: 안전성.

Abstract noun

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Listen and translate: 안전 검사.

Checking

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Listen and translate: 안전 자산.

Finance

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¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Listen and translate: 안전 불감증.

Social issue

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¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Listen and translate: 심리적 안전감.

Psychology

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Listen and translate: 안전 보장.

Policy

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:

/ 200 correct

Perfect score!

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