안타까움
안타까움 en 30 secondes
- A noun meaning pity, regret, or heartache over an unfortunate situation.
- Used to express empathy when things go wrong despite effort or hope.
- Often paired with verbs like 'feel' (느끼다) or 'evoke' (자아내다).
- Essential for sounding natural when responding to bad news in Korean.
The Korean word 안타까움 (antakkaum) is a deeply evocative noun that captures a specific shade of emotional distress. At its core, it refers to a feeling of regret, pity, or a distressing sense of helplessness when witnessing or experiencing a situation that is unfortunate, unfair, or simply didn't go as hoped. Unlike simple sadness (슬픔), which is a broad reaction to loss, antakkaum carries a nuance of 'frustration' or 'aching' because the observer wishes things were different but lacks the power to change them. It is the emotional equivalent of a 'burning heart' for someone else's misfortune or a missed opportunity.
- Core Nuance
- It is not just feeling bad; it is the specific pain of seeing something go wrong despite effort, or seeing someone suffer when they deserve better. It implies a connection between the feeler and the situation.
- Common Contexts
- You will encounter this word in news reports about tragic accidents, sports commentary when a team loses by a narrow margin, and in daily life when discussing a friend's failed exam or a missed chance at love.
시험에 아깝게 떨어진 친구를 보며 안타까움을 느꼈다. (Watching my friend narrowly fail the exam, I felt a sense of pity/regret.)
In Korean culture, expressing antakkaum is often seen as a sign of empathy and social bonding. When you tell someone, "정말 안타까워요" (It's so regrettable/pitying), you are validating their struggle and showing that you are emotionally invested in their outcome. It is a word that bridges the gap between sympathy and empathy, focusing on the 'regrettable' nature of the circumstance itself. For instance, if a talented athlete gets injured right before the Olympics, the public doesn't just feel sad; they feel antakkaum because the timing and the loss of potential are so tragic.
그 영화의 결말은 주인공의 죽음으로 큰 안타까움을 남겼다. (The movie's ending left a great sense of regret/pity with the protagonist's death.)
The word is the noun form of the adjective 안타깝다 (antakkapda). While the adjective is used more frequently in spoken conversation ("아, 안타까워라!" - Oh, how regrettable!), the noun 안타까움 is used in more reflective, descriptive, or formal writing. It allows the speaker to objectify the feeling, treating it as a tangible weight or presence in a story or a report. For example, a journalist might write about the "안타까움이 교차하는 현장" (a scene where feelings of regret/pity intersect), painting a picture of a community mourning a loss.
부모님은 자식의 고생을 보며 안타까움에 눈물을 흘리셨다. (The parents shed tears of pity/heartache seeing their child's suffering.)
Furthermore, antakkaum can be used to describe the feeling of missing out on something by a hair's breadth. If you arrive at the station just as the train is pulling away, the feeling isn't necessarily deep grief, but it is definitely antakkaum. It's that stinging realization that things were almost perfect, but failed at the last second. This nuance makes it a ubiquitous term in competitive environments, from academic rankings to professional promotions.
우승을 놓친 선수들의 얼굴에는 안타까움이 가득했다. (The faces of the players who missed the championship were filled with regret/frustration.)
- Linguistic Origin
- Etymologically, it is linked to the idea of the heart 'burning' (타다). It represents an internal heat or agitation caused by distressing circumstances.
- Register
- While the noun is common in literature and news, it is perfectly natural in everyday speech when describing one's state of mind or the atmosphere of a situation.
도와주고 싶어도 도와줄 수 없는 현실에 안타까움만 더해갔다. (The regret/frustration only grew at the reality of being unable to help even if I wanted to.)
Using 안타까움 correctly requires understanding how it functions as a noun in various grammatical structures. Most commonly, it acts as the object of a sentence, paired with verbs like '느끼다' (to feel), '자아내다' (to evoke), or '표하다' (to express). Because it describes a state of mind, it often appears in the form '안타까움에' (due to/out of regret) to explain the reason behind an action or a physical reaction like crying or sighing.
- Verb Pairing: 느끼다 (To feel)
- This is the most direct way to use the word. '나는 그의 실패에 안타까움을 느꼈다' (I felt regret/pity for his failure).
- Verb Pairing: 자아내다 (To evoke/arouse)
- Used when a situation or a scene makes others feel this emotion. '그의 사연은 많은 이들의 안타까움을 자아냈다' (His story evoked pity from many people).
그녀는 안타까움을 뒤로하고 다시 일어섰다. (Leaving the regret behind, she stood up again.)
Another sophisticated way to use 안타까움 is in the construction '~에 대한 안타까움' (regret regarding...). This allows you to specify exactly what the feeling is directed towards. For instance, '환경 파괴에 대한 안타까움' (regret/sorrow regarding environmental destruction). In professional or formal settings, such as a company announcement or a public speech, you might hear '안타까움을 금치 못하다', which is a set phrase meaning 'cannot hide one's regret' or 'is deeply regrettable'.
사고 소식을 접하고 안타까움을 금할 수 없었습니다. (I could not help but feel deep regret upon hearing the news of the accident.)
In terms of sentence placement, 안타까움 can also start a sentence to set the emotional tone. '안타까움이 가득한 목소리로...' (With a voice full of regret...). Using the particle '-이/가' indicates that the emotion itself is the subject, often performing an action like '밀려오다' (to surge/wash over). This personification of the emotion is very common in Korean literature and drama scripts to heighten the emotional stakes.
갑작스러운 이별에 안타까움이 밀려왔다. (A surge of regret/sorrow washed over me at the sudden farewell.)
You will also see the word used with the verb '표하다' (to express) in news headlines. When a politician or a public figure wants to acknowledge a tragedy without taking full blame, they often 'express their antakkaum.' This is a standard diplomatic phrase. '정부는 이번 사태에 대해 깊은 안타까움을 표했습니다' (The government expressed deep regret regarding this situation). It serves as a formal bridge between empathy and official stance.
그의 빈자리는 모두에게 큰 안타까움으로 남았다. (His absence remained a great source of regret for everyone.)
- Common Pattern: 안타까움 + 을/를 + [Verb]
- 안타까움을 사다 (to buy/earn pity), 안타까움을 전하다 (to convey regret), 안타까움을 더하다 (to add to the regret/pity).
- Common Pattern: [Situation] + 이/가 + 안타까움이다
- This describes the situation itself as being the embodiment of regret. '그의 부상이 가장 큰 안타까움이다' (His injury is the greatest regret/pity).
팬들은 선수의 은퇴 소식에 안타까움을 감추지 못했다. (Fans could not hide their regret at the news of the player's retirement.)
In the real world, 안타까움 is a staple of Korean media and social interaction. If you watch a Korean news broadcast, you will almost certainly hear this word within the first ten minutes, especially during human interest stories or reports on social issues. It is the go-to word for journalists to describe the collective feeling of the public when something tragic yet preventable happens. For example, when reporting on a small business owner forced to close due to rising rents, the reporter might say, "주변 사람들의 안타까움을 사고 있습니다" (It is earning the pity of those around).
- In Sports Broadcasting
- Commentators use it when a player misses a goal by inches or when a favorite team loses in overtime. They'll say, '정말 안타까운 순간입니다!' (It is a truly regrettable moment!).
- In K-Dramas
- Dramas thrive on 'antakkaum.' The audience feels it when the main characters miss each other at a train station or when a misunderstanding keeps lovers apart. This 'aching pity' is what keeps viewers hooked.
뉴스는 피해자 가족들의 안타까움을 전했다. (The news conveyed the pity/heartache of the victims' families.)
In social media, particularly on platforms like Instagram or Twitter (X), you'll see the word used in hashtags or captions for posts about stray animals, environmental issues, or even personal setbacks. It's a way to signal empathy to one's followers. A post about a beautiful but dilapidated historic building might be captioned with '사라져가는 것들에 대한 안타까움' (Regret for things that are disappearing). It adds a layer of depth and sentimentality to the post.
그녀의 노래는 듣는 이로 하여금 깊은 안타까움을 느끼게 한다. (Her song makes the listener feel a deep sense of regret/pity.)
Within the workplace, 안타까움 is used to soften the blow of bad news. If a project is canceled or a colleague is leaving, a manager might start their email with, "이런 소식을 전하게 되어 매우 안타까움이 큽니다" (I feel great regret to share such news). It sounds more sincere and empathetic than a simple "I'm sorry." It acknowledges that the situation is unfortunate for everyone involved, not just the person receiving the news.
면접에서 떨어진 후의 그 안타까움은 말로 다 할 수 없다. (The regret/frustration after failing the interview cannot be fully expressed in words.)
Even in literature, from modern webtoons to classic novels, 안타까움 is a central theme. It often describes the 'Han' (한), a uniquely Korean concept of collective sorrow and unfulfilled longing. When a character reflects on their past mistakes or the lost opportunities of their youth, the word used to describe that bittersweet, painful longing is 안타까움. It's an emotion that resonates deeply with the Korean psyche's focus on shared experience and emotional sincerity.
기회를 놓친 후의 안타까움이 밤새 나를 괴롭혔다. (The regret of missing the opportunity tormented me all night.)
- News Headline Example
- '전통 시장 화재, 상인들의 안타까움 이어져' (Traditional market fire, merchants' regret/heartache continues).
- Everyday Conversation
- "그 친구가 그렇게 됐다니 참 안타까움이 크네." (It's a huge pity that happened to that friend.)
For English speakers, the most common mistake is confusing 안타까움 with other words for 'sadness' or 'regret,' such as 슬픔 (seulpeum) or 아쉬움 (aswiun). While they overlap, the nuances are distinct. 슬픔 is a general term for grief or sorrow. If your pet dies, you feel 슬픔. However, if your pet was almost saved but the vet arrived one minute too late, that specific extra layer of 'if only' is 안타까움.
- Mistake 1: Using '슬픔' instead of '안타까움'
- If a talented student has to quit school because they can't afford tuition, saying you feel 'sad' (슬픔) is okay, but '안타까움' is much more accurate because it highlights the unfairness and the waste of potential.
- Mistake 2: Confusing with '아쉬움' (Aswium)
- '아쉬움' is 'lingering regret' or 'missing something.' You feel 아쉬움 when a party ends too early or you didn't get to say a proper goodbye. It's a 'wanting more' feeling. 안타까움 is more about 'pity' and 'distress' over a bad situation.
Incorrect: 파티가 끝나서 안타까움이 남는다. (Wrong context, sounds too tragic.)
Correct: 파티가 끝나서 아쉬움이 남는다. (Correct: I'm sad it's over/I wanted more.)
Another mistake is the grammatical misuse of the noun. Beginners often try to use it as an adjective without changing the form. Remember, 안타까움 is the noun (the feeling), and 안타깝다 is the adjective (to be regrettable). You cannot say "그 상황은 안타까움이다" to mean "The situation is regrettable" in normal conversation; you would say "그 상황은 안타깝다." Use the noun when you are talking about the emotion as a thing you possess or observe.
Correct: 그의 눈빛에는 안타까움이 서려 있었다. (His eyes were filled with pity/regret.)
Lastly, be careful with the intensity. 안타까움 is a strong word. If you use it for something very trivial, like dropping a piece of gum on the floor, it might sound melodramatic or sarcastic unless you are intentionally being funny. It is best reserved for situations that involve effort, missed potential, or genuine misfortune. Using it for a minor inconvenience might confuse native speakers who expect a more serious context.
그는 안타까움을 참지 못하고 한숨을 내쉬었다. (He couldn't hold back the regret/pity and let out a sigh.)
- Word Comparison
- 후회 (Huhwoe) = Regret for one's own actions. 안타까움 = Regret/pity for a situation or others' actions.
- Usage Error
- Don't say '안타까움을 해요'. Use '안타까워해요' (verb) or '안타까움을 느껴요' (noun + verb).
To truly master the emotional landscape of Korean, it is helpful to compare 안타까움 with its synonyms and related terms. While 안타까움 is the most versatile, other words can provide more specific shades of meaning depending on the level of formality and the nature of the regret.
- 아쉬움 (Aswium)
- Focuses on the feeling of 'not enough' or 'missing something.' Use this for endings, departures, or nearly missing a goal. It is less about 'pity' and more about 'dissatisfaction due to lack.'
- 연민 (Yeonmin)
- Directly translates to 'compassion' or 'pity.' This is more focused on the person suffering than the situation. It has a slightly more detached or superior feel compared to the visceral 안타까움.
- 애석함 (Aeseokham)
- A more formal and literary term for deep regret or lamentation, often used regarding death or the loss of something valuable. You see this in formal eulogies or historical texts.
그의 죽음은 많은 이들에게 애석함을 남겼다. (His death left a sense of deep lamentation for many.)
When you want to emphasize the 'frustration' aspect of 안타까움, you might use 답답함 (Dapdapham). This refers to a feeling of being 'stifled' or 'suffocated' by a situation you can't control. While 안타까움 is the sorrow you feel, 답답함 is the physical/mental tension that comes with it. For example, if you can't explain something to someone who won't listen, you feel 답답함, but if you see them making a mistake because they won't listen, you feel 안타까움.
말이 통하지 않아 답답함을 느꼈다. (I felt frustrated because we couldn't communicate.)
In very formal settings, the word 유감 (Yugam) is often used. This is the standard word for 'regret' in diplomatic or official apologies. It is much colder and less emotional than 안타까움. If a company makes a mistake, they express 유감. If the CEO actually feels bad for the affected employees, they might express 안타까움. Knowing when to switch between these words marks the difference between a functional speaker and a fluent one.
이번 결과에 대해 깊은 유감의 뜻을 표합니다. (We express our deep sense of regret [formal] regarding this result.)
Finally, the word 비통함 (Bitongham) is used for extreme, agonizing sorrow. It's much heavier than 안타까움. You would use this for a national tragedy or the loss of a child. 안타까움 is the 'aching regret' of daily life and common tragedies, while 비통함 is the 'shattering grief' of life's darkest moments.
- Summary Table
- 안타까움: Pity/Regret (Empathic) | 아쉬움: Missing out (Personal) | 유감: Formal regret (Diplomatic) | 답답함: Frustration (Stifled).
How Formal Is It?
Le savais-tu ?
The 'burning' metaphor is a common theme in Korean emotional vocabulary, reflecting the physical sensation of intense distress or passion.
Guide de prononciation
- Pronouncing 'kk' as a soft 'k' (like 'ka'). It must be tense.
- Muddling the 'um' ending into 'am'.
- Treating 'an-ta' as 'anda'. Keep the 't' clear.
- Forgetting the glottal tension in the third syllable.
- Over-aspirating the 't' in 'ta'.
Niveau de difficulté
The word itself is common, but the contexts in literature can be nuanced.
Requires understanding of complex verb pairings and particles.
The adjective form is more common in speech, making the noun easier to avoid.
Clearly pronounced but often used in emotional, fast-paced dialogue.
Quoi apprendre ensuite
Prérequis
Apprends ensuite
Avancé
Grammaire à connaître
Noun + 에 (Cause/Reason)
안타까움에 눈물을 흘렸다.
Noun + 을/를 느끼다
깊은 안타까움을 느꼈다.
Adjective + 게 (Adverbial form)
안타깝게 기회를 놓쳤다.
Noun + 에 대한 + Noun
실패에 대한 안타까움.
Noun + 이/가 + 형용사 (Description)
안타까움이 매우 컸다.
Exemples par niveau
정말 안타까워요.
It's really a pity.
A1 level uses the adjective form.
너무 안타까운 일이에요.
It's a very unfortunate thing.
안타까운 is the adjective modifying '일' (thing/event).
친구가 아파서 안타까워요.
I feel sorry because my friend is sick.
Expressing pity for someone else.
버스를 놓쳐서 안타까워요.
It's a pity I missed the bus.
Regret over a small misfortune.
꽃이 시들어서 안타까워요.
It's a pity the flowers withered.
Pity for a natural occurrence.
아, 안타깝다!
Oh, what a shame!
Exclamatory use of the adjective.
안타까운 마음이 들어요.
I feel a sense of pity.
Using '마음' (heart/feeling) with the adjective.
그 소식은 참 안타까워요.
That news is truly unfortunate.
Describing news.
그의 실패에 안타까움을 느꼈다.
I felt pity for his failure.
Introducing the noun form as an object.
안타까움에 눈물이 났어요.
Tears came out of pity/regret.
The particle '-에' indicates the reason.
이 상황이 너무 안타까움으로 다가왔다.
This situation came to me as a great pity.
Using '-으로' to show the state.
우리는 서로의 안타까움을 나눴다.
We shared each other's pity/regret.
Using '나누다' (to share) with the noun.
그 영화는 큰 안타까움을 남겼다.
That movie left a great sense of regret/pity.
Using '남기다' (to leave behind).
작은 실수에 대한 안타까움이 커요.
The regret for the small mistake is big.
'대한' specifies the target of the emotion.
안타까움이 가득한 얼굴이었어요.
It was a face full of pity/regret.
Using '가득한' to modify '얼굴'.
그의 이야기를 듣고 안타까움이 생겼다.
After hearing his story, a feeling of pity arose.
Using '생기다' (to arise/be created).
도와줄 수 없는 현실이 안타까움일 뿐이다.
The reality of not being able to help is just a pity.
Noun used with '뿐이다' (just/only).
그녀의 목소리에는 안타까움이 묻어 있었다.
Her voice was tinged with regret/pity.
'묻어 있다' literally means 'to be stained' but here means 'tinged'.
안타까움을 뒤로하고 우리는 길을 떠났다.
Leaving the regret behind, we set out on our way.
'뒤로하고' means 'leaving behind' or 'putting aside'.
그의 부상은 팀에게 큰 안타까움이었다.
His injury was a great pity for the team.
The noun acts as the complement of '이다'.
많은 사람들이 이번 사고에 대해 안타까움을 표했다.
Many people expressed regret regarding this accident.
Using '표하다' (to express) in a semi-formal context.
안타까움이 밀려와 한동안 말을 할 수 없었다.
A surge of pity/regret came, and I couldn't speak for a while.
'밀려오다' describes a wave of emotion.
어린 시절을 생각하면 안타까움이 앞선다.
When I think of my childhood, regret comes first.
'앞선다' means it takes precedence or comes first.
그의 노력에도 불구하고 실패한 것이 안타까움의 핵심이다.
The fact that he failed despite his effort is the core of the pity.
Using '핵심' (core/essence) with the noun.
정부는 이번 재난에 대해 깊은 안타까움을 표명했다.
The government expressed deep regret regarding this disaster.
Using '표명하다' (to state/express formally).
그의 은퇴는 팬들에게 지울 수 없는 안타까움을 남겼다.
His retirement left an indelible sense of regret for the fans.
'지울 수 없는' means 'unerasable' or 'indelible'.
안타까움을 금치 못하는 시민들의 반응이 이어졌다.
Responses from citizens who could not hide their regret followed.
'금치 못하다' is a formal way to say 'cannot help but...'
예산 부족으로 프로젝트가 중단된 것은 큰 안타까움이다.
It is a great pity that the project was suspended due to a lack of budget.
Complex sentence structure using '것은 ... 이다'.
작가의 죽음으로 미완성으로 남은 작품이 안타까움을 더한다.
The work left unfinished due to the author's death adds to the regret.
'더하다' means to add to or intensify.
그의 진심이 전달되지 않은 것에 대해 안타까움이 크다.
There is great regret that his sincerity was not conveyed.
Focusing on the lack of communication.
안타까움을 자아내는 그의 사연이 방송을 탔다.
His story, which evokes pity, was broadcast.
'자아내다' is a common verb meaning 'to evoke'.
전통이 사라져가는 현실에 안타까움을 느끼는 이들이 많다.
There are many who feel regret at the reality of traditions disappearing.
Using a descriptive clause to modify '이들' (people).
인간 존재의 근원적인 한계에 대한 안타까움을 노래했다.
He sang of the regret regarding the fundamental limitations of human existence.
High-level abstract usage.
그의 연설은 청중들의 가슴 속에 깊은 안타까움을 심어주었다.
His speech planted a deep sense of regret/pity in the hearts of the audience.
'심어주다' (to plant) used metaphorically.
역사의 소용돌이 속에서 희생된 이들에 대한 안타까움이 서려 있다.
The regret/sorrow for those sacrificed in the whirlpool of history is imbued here.
'서려 있다' suggests an atmosphere or emotion hanging over a place.
안타까움을 넘어선 비통함이 온 나라를 뒤덮었다.
Grief that surpassed mere regret/pity covered the whole country.
Comparing levels of sorrow.
기술의 발전이 인간 소외를 부추기는 현실은 안타까움 그 자체다.
The reality where technological progress encourages human alienation is regret itself.
'그 자체' means 'itself'.
그의 문장 하나하나에는 삶에 대한 깊은 안타까움이 배어 있다.
In every one of his sentences, a deep regret for life is permeated.
'배어 있다' means 'to be saturated' or 'permeated'.
우리는 안타까움을 딛고 더 나은 미래를 위해 나아가야 한다.
We must overcome (step on) the regret and move toward a better future.
'딛고' means 'stepping on' or 'overcoming'.
기회비용에 대한 안타까움은 경제적 선택의 필연적인 결과다.
Regret over opportunity cost is an inevitable result of economic choices.
Academic/Professional context.
유구한 세월 속에 잊혀진 문명에 대한 안타까움이 고고학자의 시선에 담겨 있다.
The regret for civilizations forgotten in the long passage of time is contained in the archaeologist's gaze.
Sophisticated literary structure.
삶의 덧없음과 그 안의 안타까움을 미학적으로 승화시킨 작품이다.
It is a work that aesthetically sublimates the transience of life and the regret within it.
'승화시키다' means 'to sublimate'.
그의 침묵은 백 마디 말보다 더 깊은 안타까움을 웅변하고 있었다.
His silence was more eloquent of deep regret than a hundred words.
'웅변하다' means 'to speak eloquently' or 'to testify'.
시대적 비극이 개인의 삶에 투영될 때 나타나는 안타까움의 층위는 다양하다.
The layers of regret that appear when the tragedy of an era is projected onto an individual's life are diverse.
Highly analytical and abstract.
완성되지 못한 꿈들이 모여 거대한 안타까움의 바다를 이룬다.
Unfinished dreams gather to form a vast sea of regret.
Poetic metaphor.
우리는 타인의 고통을 보며 느끼는 안타까움을 통해 인간성을 확인한다.
We confirm our humanity through the pity/regret we feel when seeing others' pain.
Philosophical statement.
그의 예술 세계는 상실에 대한 안타까움을 근간으로 하고 있다.
His artistic world is based on the regret/sorrow over loss.
'근간으로 하다' means 'to be based on'.
안타까움이라는 감정의 파고를 넘어야만 비로소 진정한 이해에 도달할 수 있다.
Only by crossing the waves of the emotion called regret can one finally reach true understanding.
'파고' means 'wave height' or 'intensity of waves'.
Collocations courantes
Phrases Courantes
— That's such a pity/shame.
시험에 떨어지셨다니 정말 안타깝네요.
— Unfortunate/sad news.
오늘 아침 안타까운 소식을 들었습니다.
— Unfortunately.
안타깝게도 그는 오지 못했습니다.
— A feeling of pity/regret.
안타까운 마음에 잠을 설쳤습니다.
— What a tragic/pitiable thing in this world.
세상에 이런 안타까움이 또 어디 있을까요?
— A scene that evokes pity.
화재가 난 곳은 안타까움을 자아내는 현장이었습니다.
— A wave of pity/regret washes over.
편지를 읽자 안타까움이 밀려왔다.
— There is no way to express the deep regret/pity.
이 상황에 대한 안타까움을 표현할 길이 없습니다.
— Eyes filled with pity/regret.
그녀는 안타까움이 서린 눈빛으로 나를 보았다.
— To be full of pity/regret.
그의 목소리에는 안타까움이 가득했다.
Souvent confondu avec
Aswium is about missing something or wanting more; Antakkaum is about pity and unfortunate situations.
Huhwoe is regret for your own actions; Antakkaum is usually about external situations or others' struggles.
Seulpeum is general sadness; Antakkaum is specific to pitiable and regrettable circumstances.
Expressions idiomatiques
— To stomp one's feet in frustration or pity because one cannot help.
사고 현장을 보며 안타까움에 발을 동동 굴렀다.
Neutral— A regret so deep it feels like it's burning one's chest.
가슴을 태우는 안타까움으로 아들을 기다렸다.
Literary— Regret/pity that pierces to the bone (extremely deep).
그때의 실수가 안타까움이 뼈에 사무친다.
Literary— Cannot suppress one's feeling of regret/pity.
비보를 듣고 안타까움을 금치 못했다.
Formal— To be choked up with pity or regret.
그는 안타까움에 목이 메어 말을 잇지 못했다.
Neutral— To be the object of everyone's pity/regret.
그 선수는 부상으로 안타까움을 한 몸에 받았다.
Journalistic— Pity/regret is so strong it clouds everything else.
안타까움이 앞을 가려 아무 생각도 나지 않았다.
Literary— To beat one's chest in frustration and regret.
자식의 잘못을 보며 안타까움에 가슴을 쳤다.
Neutral— Regret/pity is melted/infused into something.
이 노래에는 삶의 안타까움이 녹아 있다.
Literary— Tears of pity or regret.
그녀는 안타까움의 눈물을 흘리며 고개를 돌렸다.
NeutralFacile à confondre
Both involve pity.
Bulssanghada is an adjective for 'pitiful' (often directed at someone weaker). Antakkaum is the feeling of 'unfortunate regret'.
불쌍한 강아지 (Pitiful puppy) vs. 안타까운 사고 (Unfortunate accident).
Both involve sadness and regret.
Seogeulpeuda is more about a lonely, sorrowful feeling. Antakkaum is more about frustration regarding a situation.
서글픈 인생 (A lonely/sorrowful life) vs. 안타까운 패배 (A regrettable defeat).
Both mean 'to feel sorry for'.
Gayeopda is purely empathetic toward someone's pain. Antakkaum includes the 'regret' of the situation itself.
가여운 아이 (Poor/pitiable child).
Both involve frustration.
Dapdaphada is the feeling of being stifled. Antakkaum is the feeling of pity for the outcome.
말이 안 통해서 답답하다 (Frustrated because I can't communicate).
Both translate to 'regret'.
Yugam is formal/diplomatic. Antakkaum is emotional/empathetic.
유감을 표합니다 (I express my formal regret).
Structures de phrases
[Person]은 [Situation]에 안타까움을 느꼈다.
민수는 친구의 부상에 안타까움을 느꼈다.
[Situation]은 [Person]에게 큰 안타까움이었다.
그의 실패는 우리에게 큰 안타까움이었다.
안타까움에 [Action].
안타까움에 한숨을 내쉬었다.
[Situation]이 안타까움을 자아내고 있다.
가뭄으로 말라가는 논이 안타까움을 자아내고 있다.
[Person]은 안타까움을 감추지 못했다.
감독은 팀의 패배에 안타까움을 감추지 못했다.
[Noun]에 대한 안타까움이 서려 있는 [Noun].
고향에 대한 안타까움이 서려 있는 편지.
안타까움을 금할 길 없는 [Situation].
안타까움을 금할 길 없는 비극적인 사고.
안타까움이라는 감정의 [Metaphor].
안타까움이라는 감정의 소용돌이.
Famille de mots
Noms
Verbes
Adjectifs
Apparenté
Comment l'utiliser
Highly frequent in emotional, journalistic, and literary contexts.
-
Using '안타까움' for personal regret of an action.
→
후회 (Huhwoe)
If you regret eating too much, use '후회'. If you feel bad that the restaurant closed early, use '안타까움'.
-
Saying '안타까움을 해요'.
→
안타까워해요 / 안타까움을 느껴요
You don't 'do' (하다) the noun; you 'feel' (느끼다) it or 'express' (표하다) it.
-
Confusing '안타까움' with '아쉬움' at a party.
→
아쉬움
If you're sad a fun party is over, it's '아쉬움'. '안타까움' would mean something tragic happened at the party.
-
Using the noun form as a standalone adjective.
→
안타깝다
Don't say '상황이 안타까움이에요'. Say '상황이 안타까워요'.
-
Pronouncing '까' as '가'.
→
까 (Tense kka)
The double consonant is vital for the correct meaning and emotional weight.
Astuces
Noun vs Adjective
In daily speech, use '안타까워요'. In writing or describing your heart, use '안타까움'. This distinction makes your Korean sound more advanced.
Empathy is Key
Koreans value 'Jeong'. Expressing 'antakkaum' is a way to show you share in the other person's life and struggles.
Verb Pairs
Memorize '안타까움을 자아내다'. It's a high-level collocation that will impress native speakers when you describe a sad movie or story.
Reaction Word
When a friend tells you they lost their wallet, immediately say '정말 안타깝네요'. It's the perfect empathetic response.
Using -에
Use '안타까움에' to explain why you did something emotional, like '안타까움에 잠을 못 잤어요' (I couldn't sleep out of pity/regret).
News Style
If you are writing a report, use '안타까움을 금치 못하다' for a professional tone regarding a tragedy.
Drama Context
In romance dramas, 'antakkaum' is the keyword for 'second lead syndrome'—feeling sorry for the guy who doesn't get the girl.
Burning Heart
Remember the origin 'An' (Inside) + 'Ta' (Burn). It's a heart-burning feeling.
Tense Consonant
Make the 'kka' sound very sharp and tight. It adds to the emotional intensity of the word.
Avoid Sarcasm
Be careful not to use 'antakkaum' for very tiny things unless you're joking, as it can sound sarcastic.
Mémorise-le
Moyen mnémotechnique
Think of 'An-Ta-Kka-Um'. 'An' (Inside) + 'Ta' (Burn) + 'Kka' (Sharp) + 'Um' (Noun suffix). Your inside is burning sharply with pity.
Association visuelle
Imagine a person watching a bird with a broken wing trying to fly. That feeling of wanting to help but being unable to is 'antakkaum'.
Word Web
Défi
Try to use '안타까움' to describe a scene from your favorite sad movie to a friend. Focus on the 'if only' aspect of the scene.
Origine du mot
Derived from the Middle Korean adjective '안타깝다'. It is thought to be a compound of '안' (inside/heart) and '타다' (to burn), combined with a suffix.
Sens originel : The feeling of one's heart or insides burning with distress.
KoreanicContexte culturel
When someone expresses 'antakkaum' to you, they are being supportive. Do not take it as them looking down on you.
English speakers often translate this as 'pity,' but be careful: in English, 'pity' can sometimes sound condescending. 'Antakkaum' is almost always purely empathetic and supportive.
Pratique dans la vie réelle
Contextes réels
Sports
- 아까운 기회
- 안타까운 패배
- 부상 소식
- 실점에 대한 안타까움
News/Accidents
- 안타까움을 사다
- 깊은 안타까움
- 유가족의 슬픔
- 사고 경위
Relationships
- 엇갈린 운명
- 이별의 안타까움
- 오해의 시작
- 전하지 못한 진심
Work/Success
- 실패의 쓴맛
- 안타까운 결과
- 노력의 배신
- 기회를 놓치다
Environment/Society
- 사라지는 전통
- 환경 파괴에 대한 안타까움
- 소외된 이웃
- 사회의 무관심
Amorces de conversation
"그 선수가 부상으로 은퇴했다니 정말 안타까움이 크네요."
"영화 결말이 너무 슬퍼서 안타까움이 오래 남았어요."
"시험에서 1점 차이로 떨어졌을 때의 안타까움을 아세요?"
"요즘 전통 시장들이 문을 닫는 걸 보면 안타까움이 느껴져요."
"도와주고 싶은데 방법이 없을 때의 그 안타까움이란..."
Sujets d'écriture
오늘 하루 중 가장 안타까움을 느꼈던 순간은 언제인가요? 그 이유는 무엇인가요?
누군가에게 '안타까움'을 느꼈던 경험을 자세히 적어보세요.
자신이 놓친 기회 중 가장 안타까움이 남는 일은 무엇인가요?
사회의 어떤 면을 볼 때 가장 큰 안타까움을 느끼나요?
안타까움을 극복하기 위해 당신은 보통 어떤 행동을 하나요?
Questions fréquentes
10 questionsUsually, you use '후회' (regret) for your own mistakes. However, you can use '안타까움' if you feel the situation as a whole was unfortunate, like 'I worked so hard but made a tiny error, it's so antakkaum.'
Yes, it always carries a negative emotional weight, but it's 'positive' in the sense that it shows you have a heart and empathy for others.
'아쉬움' is felt when you almost won (e.g., 'If only we had one more minute!'). '안타까움' is felt when a player gets injured or a terrible call was made by the referee.
Yes, it is a very polite and warm way to respond to someone's bad news. It shows you are listening and care.
Yes, especially in emails to express regret about a project cancellation or a colleague's departure. It sounds more human than '유감'.
Use '안타깝게도' at the beginning of a sentence. For example: '안타깝게도 자리가 없습니다' (Unfortunately, there are no seats).
It's more natural to say '안타까움이 남다' (regret remains) or '안타까움을 느끼다' (feel regret).
Absolutely. Seeing a stray cat in the rain is a perfect situation to feel '안타까움'.
There isn't a single direct opposite, but '후련함' (relief) or '다행' (good fortune/relief) are often used in contrasting situations.
Not necessarily. It often implies you *wish* you could help but perhaps you can't, which is why it's so frustrating.
Teste-toi 200 questions
Write a sentence using '안타까움' to describe how you feel about a friend failing an exam.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Shows the use of the noun as an object of '느끼다'.
Shows the use of the noun as an object of '느끼다'.
Use the phrase '안타까움을 금치 못하다' in a formal sentence about a news report.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Demonstrates formal usage.
Demonstrates formal usage.
Write a sentence using '안타까움에' to explain an action.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Shows the cause-and-effect structure.
Shows the cause-and-effect structure.
Translate: 'That movie left a deep sense of regret/pity.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translates the English sentiment into the Korean noun structure.
Translates the English sentiment into the Korean noun structure.
Use '안타까움' and '아쉬움' in the same sentence to show the difference.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Shows understanding of the two different nuances.
Shows understanding of the two different nuances.
Describe a scene using '안타까움이 서려 있다'.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Uses the atmospheric literary expression.
Uses the atmospheric literary expression.
Write a formal email opening regarding a project cancellation.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Shows professional/formal empathetic usage.
Shows professional/formal empathetic usage.
Translate: 'I couldn't sleep because of the pity I felt for him.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Uses the '-에' particle for cause.
Uses the '-에' particle for cause.
Use '안타까움을 자아내다' in a sentence about a stray animal.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Uses the 'evoke' collocation.
Uses the 'evoke' collocation.
Write a sentence about a missed opportunity using '안타까움'.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Focuses on the 'missed potential' aspect.
Focuses on the 'missed potential' aspect.
Translate: 'Unfortunately, he didn't make it.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Uses the adverbial form '안타깝게도'.
Uses the adverbial form '안타깝게도'.
Create a sentence using '안타까움이 밀려오다'.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Uses the 'wave' metaphor for emotion.
Uses the 'wave' metaphor for emotion.
Write a sentence about a social problem using '안타까움'.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Shows social empathy.
Shows social empathy.
Use '안타까움' to describe a sports match result.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Uses '그 자체' (itself) for emphasis.
Uses '그 자체' (itself) for emphasis.
Translate: 'I share your regret/pity regarding this matter.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Uses '공유하다' (to share).
Uses '공유하다' (to share).
Write a sentence using '안타까움이 가득한 얼굴'.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Uses the noun to modify a facial expression.
Uses the noun to modify a facial expression.
Translate: 'His story earned the pity of many.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Uses the 'earn' (사다) collocation.
Uses the 'earn' (사다) collocation.
Use '안타까움을 뒤로하고' in a motivational sentence.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Shows the transitional usage.
Shows the transitional usage.
Describe a historical event using '안타까움'.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Applies the word to a historical/collective context.
Applies the word to a historical/collective context.
Translate: 'There is no way to express my regret.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Uses the idiom '표현할 길이 없다'.
Uses the idiom '표현할 길이 없다'.
How do you say 'It's a pity' politely in Korean?
Read this aloud:
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Both are polite spoken forms.
Express your regret about a friend's sick cat.
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A natural way to show empathy.
Practice the pronunciation of '안타까움'. Which syllable is tense?
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The double consonant 'ㄲ' requires tension.
How would you react to news of a natural disaster?
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Uses both the adjective and noun forms.
What is the formal way to say 'I feel regret' in a speech?
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A very formal, written-style spoken phrase.
Use '안타깝게도' to start a sentence about being late.
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Shows the use of 'unfortunately'.
Describe a movie you found pitiable.
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Uses the adjective form to describe a state.
Say 'I can't hide my regret' in a formal way.
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Uses the formal grammar pattern.
How do you emphasize the emotion in '안타까워요'?
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Common prosodic features in Korean.
Tell a friend 'That's a shame' using '안타깝다'.
Read this aloud:
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Informal/Neutral exclamation.
Roleplay: You are a news anchor reporting a fire.
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Uses the 'evoke' collocation in a professional tone.
Explain the difference between '슬퍼요' and '안타까워요' to a classmate.
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Tu as dit :
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Clarifies the nuance.
Say 'I feel a lot of regret' using the noun form.
Read this aloud:
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Uses the 'is big' (크다) pattern.
React to someone missing a goal in soccer.
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Shows the 'almost' nuance of the word.
How do you say 'Tears came out of pity'?
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Uses the '-에' particle for cause.
What is the short, casual version of '안타까워'?
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The '-네' ending adds a touch of realization or observation.
Use '안타까움' in a sentence about a lost opportunity.
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Tu as dit :
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Uses the 'remains' (남다) pattern.
Pronounce '안타까워요' three times. Pay attention to the 'tt' and 'kk'.
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Tu as dit :
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Focus on the aspirated 't' and tense 'kk'.
Respond to: '제 강아지가 어제 죽었어요.'
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Tu as dit :
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A compassionate, multi-sentence response.
How would you express 'pity' in a very formal business setting?
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Tu as dit :
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Both are acceptable, with '유감' being more standard for errors.
Listen for the word: '그 소식은 참 안타깝네요.' What is the speaker feeling?
The adjective '안타깝네요' expresses sympathy.
In a drama, a character says '안타까움에 잠을 못 잤어.' Why couldn't they sleep?
The '-에' particle indicates the reason.
A news anchor says '안타까움을 자아내고 있습니다.' What kind of story is this?
The phrase is used to evoke public sympathy.
You hear '안타깝게도 자리가 없네요.' Can you sit down?
'안타깝게도' (unfortunately) means there are no seats.
A friend says '아쉬움이 남네.' Is this exactly the same as '안타까움이 남네'?
'아쉬움' is more about missing out; '안타까움' is more about pity.
You hear '안타까움을 표명했습니다.' Is this a casual or formal setting?
'표명하다' is a formal verb for 'to state/express'.
Listen for the tense 'kk' sound in '안타까움'. How many syllables are there?
안-타-까-움.
A commentator says '정말 안타까운 패배입니다.' How did the team lose?
The adjective describes the nature of the defeat.
A mother says '우리 아들 고생하는 거 보니 안타까워.' What is she feeling?
A common use of the word in family contexts.
You hear '안타까움을 뒤로하고...' What is the speaker about to do?
The phrase means leaving the regret behind.
Listen to the tone of '아, 안타깝다!'. Is it likely about a minor or major event?
Tone determines the scale of the 'pity'.
If you hear '안타까움이 서린 목소리', what does the voice sound like?
'서린' implies the emotion is embedded in the voice.
A politician says '깊은 안타까움을 전합니다.' Who are they likely speaking to?
A formal expression of sympathy.
You hear '안타까움이 앞서서...' What does this mean?
Describes the precedence of the emotion.
In a song, you hear '안타까운 이별'. What kind of breakup was it?
The adjective adds a layer of 'tragic pity' to the breakup.
/ 200 correct
Perfect score!
Summary
The word '안타까움' captures the specific 'aching' frustration of seeing something unfortunate happen that you wish you could fix. Example: '그의 탈락은 모두에게 큰 안타까움을 주었다' (His elimination gave everyone a great sense of regret/pity).
- A noun meaning pity, regret, or heartache over an unfortunate situation.
- Used to express empathy when things go wrong despite effort or hope.
- Often paired with verbs like 'feel' (느끼다) or 'evoke' (자아내다).
- Essential for sounding natural when responding to bad news in Korean.
Noun vs Adjective
In daily speech, use '안타까워요'. In writing or describing your heart, use '안타까움'. This distinction makes your Korean sound more advanced.
Empathy is Key
Koreans value 'Jeong'. Expressing 'antakkaum' is a way to show you share in the other person's life and struggles.
Verb Pairs
Memorize '안타까움을 자아내다'. It's a high-level collocation that will impress native speakers when you describe a sad movie or story.
Reaction Word
When a friend tells you they lost their wallet, immediately say '정말 안타깝네요'. It's the perfect empathetic response.
Exemple
그 소식을 듣고 안타까움을 금할 수 없었다.
Contenu associé
Plus de mots sur emotions
받아들이다
A2Accepter, admettre, intégrer.
아파하다
A2Ressentir de la douleur ou du chagrin (souvent observé chez autrui).
감탄스럽다
A2Leur dévouement à la cause est tout simplement admirable.
감탄
A2Admiration or marvel; a feeling of wonder.
감탄하다
A2Admirer ou s'émerveiller ; exprimer son étonnement face à quelque chose de beau ou d'exceptionnel.
기특하다
B1Admirable pour une bonne action ou une pensée mature.
충고
B1Conseils ou recommandations offerts en vue d'une action future prudente ; avis sincère.
애정
B1Affection; un sentiment doux de tendresse ou d'attachement.
애틋하다
B2Leur amour tendre et mélancolique a ému tout le monde.
살갑다
B22 rich native sent