At the A1 level, you can think of 다정함 as a very warm 'kindness.' While A1 students usually learn the adjective 다정해요 (is kind/warm) first, the noun 다정함 is used to talk about 'the warmth' itself. Imagine a person who smiles a lot and says nice things—that person has 다정함. It is a very positive word. You can use it to describe your mom, dad, or a good friend. Even if you don't use the noun often in speaking, seeing it in books or hearing it in songs will help you understand that the person being talked about is very nice and sweet. Focus on the feeling of a warm hug or a gentle smile.
At the A2 level, you should start to distinguish 다정함 from '친절함' (politeness). 다정함 is more about a person's personality and how they treat people they care about. It comes from '정' (Jeong), which is a deep Korean concept of connection. You might use it in sentences like '그의 다정함이 좋아요' (I like his affectionate nature). It is a common word in K-Dramas to describe the 'good guy.' When you see someone being very gentle and sweet to a child or a pet, you are seeing 다정함 in action. It is a noun, so it often comes before particles like -이, -은, or -을.
At the B1 level, you can use 다정함 to describe abstract qualities in your writing. You should understand that it is a nominalized form of the adjective 다정하다. You can use it to talk about the 'atmosphere' of a story or the 'character' of a historical figure. B1 learners should be able to recognize it in lyrics and understand that it implies a consistent, warm character trait rather than a one-time act of kindness. It is often paired with verbs like '느껴지다' (to be felt) to describe how someone's warmth reaches you. It's an essential word for describing ideal relationships and personality traits in more detail.
At the B2 level, 다정함 becomes a tool for nuanced psychological description. You can discuss the social value of 다정함 in modern society and how it contrasts with '무관심' (indifference) or '냉정함' (coldness). You should be able to use it in complex sentences, such as '다정함은 때로 백 마디 말보다 더 큰 위로가 된다' (Affectionate nature sometimes provides greater comfort than a hundred words). You can also explore related terms like 다정다감 and understand how the Hanja roots (多情) contribute to the meaning of 'having many feelings' or being 'emotionally rich.'
At the C1 level, you should appreciate the literary and philosophical weight of 다정함. It is often explored in Korean essays and literature as a form of 'soft power' or a necessary virtue for human coexistence. You can analyze how 다정함 differs from empathy (공감) or sympathy (동정). In a C1 context, the word might be used to describe the tone of a writer or the underlying ethos of a community. You should be able to distinguish the subtle differences between 다정함, 상냥함, and 온유함 (gentleness/meekness) and use them appropriately in formal debates or creative writing.
At the C2 level, 다정함 is understood in its full cultural and linguistic complexity. You can discuss how the concept of 다정함 has evolved in Korean media—from the traditional 'paternal' warmth to the modern 'soft masculinity.' You can use the word to critique social structures that lack this quality or to celebrate artistic works that embody it. You are comfortable using the word in high-level academic or literary analysis, understanding how it interacts with other complex Korean concepts like 한 (Han) and 정 (Jeong). Your usage reflects a deep grasp of the emotional 'temperature' of the Korean language.

다정함 30秒で

  • Dajeongham is a noun meaning 'affectionate nature' or 'tenderness.'
  • It comes from Hanja roots meaning 'much feeling' or 'abundant heart.'
  • It is a highly valued personality trait in Korean culture, linked to 'Jeong.'
  • It differs from simple politeness by implying deeper emotional warmth and intimacy.

The Korean word 다정함 (Dajeongham) is a beautiful, multifaceted noun that translates most closely to 'affectionate nature,' 'warm-heartedness,' or 'tenderness.' At its core, it describes a personality trait or a specific quality of interaction characterized by a deep, visible warmth and a genuine concern for others' feelings. Unlike simple politeness, which can be formal and distant, 다정함 implies a certain level of emotional intimacy and a proactive desire to make the other person feel cared for and comfortable. It is derived from the Hanja roots 多 (다 - many/much) and 情 (정 - feeling/emotion), followed by the nominalizing suffix -함. Therefore, etymologically, it literally means the state of having 'much emotion' or 'abundant heart.'

Core Nuance
It is the opposite of being '무뚝뚝함' (brusqueness or coldness). It is the 'softness' in a person's voice and the 'warmth' in their actions.
Social Context
In Korean culture, being described as having '다정함' is one of the highest compliments, suggesting you are approachable, empathetic, and emotionally generous.

You will encounter this word frequently in romantic contexts, descriptions of family dynamics, and even in professional settings where a leader is praised for their 'soft power.' For example, a father who listens patiently to his child and speaks with a gentle tone is said to possess 다정함. In K-Dramas, the 'second lead syndrome' often stems from a character who displays overwhelming 다정함 toward the protagonist, providing a contrast to a more 'tsundere' or cold main lead. It is not just about being 'nice' (친절하다); it is about the emotional texture of one's personality.

그의 다정함 덕분에 제 마음이 따뜻해졌어요. (Thanks to his affectionate nature, my heart became warm.)

The word is often used with verbs like '느껴지다' (to be felt) or '보이다' (to be seen). You don't just 'do' 다정함; it is something that emanates from a person's character. It encompasses the way someone looks at you, the way they choose their words to avoid hurting you, and the small, thoughtful gestures they perform without being asked. It is a quiet, steady kind of love that builds safety in relationships.

어머니의 다정함은 우리 가족의 힘입니다. (Mother's tenderness is the strength of our family.)

Common Adjectives
따뜻한 다정함 (warm affection), 세심한 다정함 (detailed/attentive affection), 변치 않는 다정함 (unchanging tenderness).

In conclusion, 다정함 represents the human capacity for gentle empathy. It is the quality that turns a house into a home and a stranger into a friend. Whether you are describing a partner, a pet, or a piece of writing, this word evokes a sense of emotional safety and comfort that is central to the Korean concept of 'Jeong' (정).

Using 다정함 correctly requires understanding its role as a noun. While the adjective form 다정하다 (to be affectionate) is more common in casual speech, the noun form 다정함 is used when you want to treat this quality as a distinct concept or the subject of a sentence. It often appears in formal writing, literature, or when reflecting deeply on someone's character. It is frequently followed by particles like -이/가 (subject), -을/를 (object), or -에 (at/by).

사람들은 그의 다정함에 매력을 느낍니다. (People feel attracted to his affectionate nature.)

Sentence Structure 1: Subject
[Person]'s 다정함 + 이/가 + [Verb/Adjective]. Example: '친구의 다정함이 나를 위로했다' (My friend's kindness comforted me).
Sentence Structure 2: Object
[Subject] + [Person]'s 다정함 + 을/를 + [Verb]. Example: '나는 그녀의 다정함을 잊을 수 없다' (I cannot forget her tenderness).

One interesting way to use 다정함 is to describe an atmosphere. It isn't limited to humans; a place or a piece of music can possess a sense of 'dajeongham' if it feels welcoming and soft. In poetic contexts, you might see phrases like '봄볕의 다정함' (the tenderness of the spring sunlight). This personification highlights how deeply the concept of emotional warmth is embedded in the Korean sensory experience.

진정한 다정함은 말보다 행동에서 나타납니다. (True affection is shown through actions rather than words.)

When comparing 다정함 to other nouns like 사랑 (love), remember that 다정함 is a specific *mode* of love. You can love someone without being particularly 'dajeong' (for example, a strict parent who loves their child but is very stern). Conversely, you can show 다정함 to a stranger. It is about the 'temperature' of the interaction. Using this word in your writing adds a layer of sophistication and emotional nuance that simpler words like '좋음' (goodness) lack.

You will hear 다정함 in various settings ranging from deep late-night conversations to professional character evaluations. In Korea, the 'Dajeong-nam' (다정남 - affectionate man) is a popular archetype in media and dating culture. Women often list '다정함' as one of the top qualities they look for in a partner. Therefore, in variety shows or talk shows, you'll frequently hear celebrities discussing their ideal types and emphasizing this word.

In K-Dramas
Characters often say, '그 사람의 다정함에 반했어요' (I fell for that person's affectionate nature). It is used to explain the 'why' behind an attraction.
In Literature & Lyrics
Ballad songs are filled with this word. Lyrics often mourn the loss of a lover's '다정함' or promise to keep their own '다정함' for the other person.

그 영화 주인공의 다정함이 인상적이었어요. (The lead character's tenderness in that movie was impressive.)

In the workplace, 다정함 might be used to describe a manager who is supportive and empathetic. While 'leadership' is the official term, colleagues might whisper about how a specific manager's 다정함 makes the office environment much better. It is also a common theme in 'healing' (힐링) content—books and essays that aim to comfort the reader. Phrases like '나에게 필요한 것은 작은 다정함이었다' (What I needed was a small bit of kindness) are common titles or quotes in this genre.

요즘 사회에는 서로를 향한 다정함이 부족한 것 같아요. (I feel like there is a lack of mutual affection in today's society.)

One of the most common mistakes learners make is confusing 다정함 with 친절함 (politeness/kindness). While they overlap, 친절함 is often an external behavior or a social duty (like a clerk being nice to a customer), whereas 다정함 is a deeper, internal quality that suggests emotional closeness. You wouldn't usually describe a professional service as '다정하다' unless the person went above and beyond to show personal concern.

Mistake 1: Misusing the Suffix
Using '다정기' or '다정력' (not standard words) instead of '다정함'. Remember that '-함' is the standard way to turn this specific adjective into a noun.
Mistake 2: Confusing with '정' (Jeong)
While '다정함' contains the root '정', '정' is a broader concept of attachment/bond. '다정함' is a specific way of expressing that bond through warmth.

Another mistake is overusing the noun form in places where the adjective 다정하다 would be more natural. For example, instead of saying '그는 다정함을 가지고 있어요' (He has affection), Koreans usually say '그는 다정해요' (He is affectionate). Use the noun 다정함 when you are discussing the *concept* or when the grammar requires a noun (e.g., as the subject of a complex sentence).

Incorrect: 그 식당 직원은 정말 다정함이에요. (The waiter is really affection.)
Correct: 그 식당 직원은 정말 친절해요. (The waiter is really kind.)

Finally, be careful with the intensity. 다정함 is a positive trait, but in some very specific contexts, excessive 'dajeongham' toward everyone can be seen as a lack of boundaries or being 'too soft' (우유부단함). However, in 99% of cases, it is a purely positive attribute.

To enrich your Korean vocabulary, it is helpful to compare 다정함 with its synonyms and related terms. Each has a slightly different flavor of 'warmth.'

친절함 (Chin-jeol-ham)
Kindness/Politeness. This is more about manners and helpfulness. A stranger can be '친절', but '다정함' implies a more personal, emotional warmth.
상냥함 (Sang-nyang-ham)
Gentleness/Sweetness. This often describes a soft, pleasant way of speaking or behaving. It focuses more on the *manner* of interaction than the deep emotion behind it.
따뜻함 (Tta-tteut-ham)
Warmth. This is the most literal synonym. While '따뜻함' can describe the weather or a heater, when applied to a person, it is almost identical to '다정함'.
포근함 (Po-geun-ham)
Cozy warmth. This describes a feeling of being embraced or sheltered. It’s like the feeling of a warm blanket or a mother's hug.

If you want to describe someone who is not only affectionate but also very sensitive to others' needs, you might use the word 세심함 (attentiveness). If they are very emotional and warm, 다정다감함 (being full of sentiment and affection) is a great four-character extension.

그녀는 다정함보다는 상냥함이 더 어울리는 사람이에요. (She is a person who is better described by sweetness than deep affection.)

Choosing the right word depends on whether you want to emphasize the *emotion* (다정함), the *manners* (친절함), the *voice/tone* (상냥함), or the *physical/emotional atmosphere* (따뜻함/포근함).

How Formal Is It?

豆知識

The root '정' (Jeong) is considered a unique Korean cultural concept that describes a collective feeling of belonging, attachment, and mutual care. Therefore, '다정함' is literally the visible overflowing of that 'Jeong'.

発音ガイド

UK /da.dʑʌŋ.ɦam/
US /dɑ.dʒʌŋ.hɑm/
Stress is relatively even across syllables, as is typical in Korean, but a slight emphasis may fall on the first syllable '다'.
韻が合う語
당당함 (dang-dang-ham) 단단함 (dan-dan-ham) 신선함 (sin-seon-ham) 따뜻함 (tta-tteut-ham) 상냥함 (sang-nyang-ham) 정교함 (jeong-gyo-ham) 정직함 (jeong-jik-ham) 우울함 (u-ul-ham)
よくある間違い
  • Pronouncing 'jeong' like 'jung' (with an 'oo' sound).
  • Making the 'h' in 'ham' too silent or too harsh.
  • Pronouncing 'da' as 'ta' (Korean 'd' is unaspirated).
  • Ending the 'm' sound too quickly without closing the lips.
  • Confusing the 'eo' (ㅓ) sound in 'jeong' with 'o' (ㅗ).

難易度

読解 2/5

The word is common in literature and subtitles, easily recognizable.

ライティング 3/5

Using the nominalized form correctly in complex sentences requires some practice.

スピーキング 2/5

The adjective form is more common in speech, but the noun is used for emphasis.

リスニング 2/5

Clearly pronounced and frequently used in songs and dramas.

次に学ぶべきこと

前提知識

정 (feeling) 따뜻하다 (to be warm) 마음 (heart) 사람 (person) 좋다 (to be good)

次に学ぶ

상냥하다 (to be sweet) 자상하다 (to be thoughtful) 배려 (consideration) 공감 (empathy) 위로 (comfort)

上級

온유 (meekness) 긍휼 (pity/compassion) 애틋함 (fondness/heartache) 돈독하다 (to be close/friendly)

知っておくべき文法

Nominalizer -함/-음

행복하다 -> 행복함, 다정하다 -> 다정함

Possessive marker -의

그의 다정함 (His tenderness)

Causative/Passive -게 만들다

다정함이 나를 웃게 만들어요. (Tenderness makes me smile.)

Adjective modifying noun -ㄴ/은

다정한 사람 (Affectionate person)

Reason marker -덕분에

그의 다정함 덕분에 (Thanks to his tenderness)

レベル別の例文

1

선생님의 다정함이 좋아요.

I like the teacher's kindness/warmth.

Noun + -이 (subject particle) + 좋아요 (is good/I like).

2

엄마의 다정함은 따뜻해요.

Mom's tenderness is warm.

Possessive marker -의 connects 'Mom' and 'tenderness'.

3

그 친구는 다정함이 많아요.

That friend has a lot of affectionate nature.

Literally 'affection is much'.

4

다정함은 좋은 거예요.

Affectionate nature is a good thing.

Using -은 as a topic marker for the concept.

5

강아지의 다정함에 웃었어요.

I smiled at the puppy's sweetness.

-에 indicates the cause/reason for the smile.

6

그의 다정함이 느껴져요.

I can feel his warmth.

Passive verb '느껴지다' (to be felt).

7

작은 다정함이 필요해요.

I need a little bit of kindness.

Adjective '작은' (small) modifying the noun.

8

다정함은 마음을 녹여요.

Tenderness melts the heart.

Object marker -을 used with 'heart'.

1

그의 다정함 덕분에 행복해요.

I am happy thanks to his affectionate nature.

덕분에 (thanks to) follows the noun.

2

사람들은 그녀의 다정함을 좋아해요.

People like her tenderness.

Object marker -을 with the verb '좋아하다'.

3

편지에서 그의 다정함이 보여요.

I can see his warmth in the letter.

보이다 (to be seen/visible).

4

다정함이 있는 사람이 되고 싶어요.

I want to be a person who has an affectionate nature.

-고 싶다 (want to) with '되다' (become).

5

우리는 서로의 다정함에 감사했어요.

We were thankful for each other's kindness.

-에 감사하다 (to be thankful for).

6

그 영화는 주인공의 다정함을 잘 보여줘요.

That movie shows the protagonist's tenderness well.

보여주다 (to show/demonstrate).

7

다정함은 세상을 밝게 만들어요.

Affectionate nature makes the world bright.

만들다 (to make) + adverb '밝게' (brightly).

8

아이의 다정함에 모두가 감동했어요.

Everyone was moved by the child's sweetness.

감동하다 (to be moved/touched).

1

그녀의 다정함은 주변 사람들에게 긍정적인 영향을 줍니다.

Her affectionate nature gives a positive influence to those around her.

영향을 주다 (to give/exert influence).

2

말투에서 느껴지는 다정함이 참 따뜻하네요.

The warmth felt in your way of speaking is truly warm.

-에서 느껴지는 (felt from) modifies the noun.

3

진정한 다정함은 보이지 않는 곳에서 나타납니다.

True tenderness appears in places where it's not seen.

나타나다 (to appear/manifest).

4

그의 무뚝뚝한 외모 뒤에는 깊은 다정함이 숨겨져 있어요.

Behind his blunt appearance, a deep affection is hidden.

숨겨져 있다 (to be hidden).

5

다정함이라는 것은 배울 수 있는 게 아니에요.

This thing called 'dajeongham' isn't something you can learn.

-이라는 것 (the thing called...) for definitions.

6

그의 다정함에 익숙해져서 다른 사람은 못 만날 것 같아요.

I've gotten used to his warmth, so I don't think I can meet anyone else.

-에 익숙해지다 (to get used to).

7

우리는 가끔 타인의 다정함을 잊고 삽니다.

We sometimes live forgetting the kindness of others.

-고 살다 (to live while doing...).

8

다정함은 갈등을 해결하는 가장 좋은 방법입니다.

Affectionate nature is the best way to resolve conflict.

해결하는 (resolving) modifies the noun '방법' (way).

1

그의 다정함은 단순한 친절을 넘어선 진심 어린 배려였다.

His affectionate nature was a sincere consideration that went beyond simple kindness.

-을 넘어서다 (to go beyond/surpass).

2

현대 사회에서 다정함을 유지하는 것은 쉬운 일이 아니다.

Maintaining an affectionate nature in modern society is not an easy task.

-는 것 (nominalizing the act of maintaining).

3

그녀가 보여준 다정함은 얼어붙은 내 마음을 녹이기에 충분했다.

The tenderness she showed was enough to melt my frozen heart.

-기에 충분하다 (to be enough to...).

4

다정함은 인간관계의 신뢰를 쌓는 기초가 된다.

Affectionate nature becomes the foundation for building trust in human relationships.

기초가 되다 (to become the foundation).

5

그의 행동 하나하나에는 타인을 향한 다정함이 깃들어 있다.

In every one of his actions, an affection for others is embedded.

깃들어 있다 (to be permeated/embedded).

6

우리는 때때로 다정함을 약함으로 오해하곤 한다.

We sometimes misunderstand tenderness as weakness.

-으로 오해하다 (to misunderstand as...).

7

다정함이라는 미덕은 공동체를 하나로 묶어주는 힘이 있다.

The virtue of tenderness has the power to bind a community together.

묶어주는 (that binds) modifies '힘' (power).

8

예술가는 작품을 통해 세상에 대한 자신의 다정함을 표현했다.

The artist expressed their affection for the world through their work.

통해 (through/via).

1

문학 속에서 다정함은 종종 비극을 극복하는 유일한 구원으로 묘사된다.

In literature, tenderness is often depicted as the only salvation for overcoming tragedy.

묘사된다 (is depicted/described).

2

그의 다정함은 계산된 행동이 아니라 내면에서 우러나오는 본성이었다.

His affectionate nature was not a calculated behavior but a nature emerging from within.

우러나오다 (to well up/emerge from within).

3

리더의 다정함은 조직의 창의성과 심리적 안전감을 높이는 핵심 요소이다.

A leader's tenderness is a key factor in increasing organizational creativity and psychological safety.

핵심 요소 (key element/factor).

4

다정함은 타자의 고통을 외면하지 않는 용기에서 시작된다.

Tenderness begins with the courage not to look away from the suffering of others.

외면하지 않는 (not looking away).

5

그의 글에는 세상을 바라보는 따뜻한 시선과 다정함이 가득 담겨 있다.

His writing is filled with a warm perspective and tenderness toward the world.

가득 담겨 있다 (to be filled/contained fully).

6

우리는 다정함의 가치를 재발견함으로써 더 나은 사회를 만들 수 있다.

We can create a better society by rediscovering the value of tenderness.

-함으로써 (by doing...).

7

다정함은 강요될 수 없는 것이기에 더욱 고귀한 가치를 지닌다.

Because tenderness cannot be forced, it holds an even more noble value.

-이기에 (because it is...).

8

그 노부부의 서로를 향한 다정함은 세월의 풍파를 견뎌낸 증거였다.

The elderly couple's affection for each other was proof of having endured the storms of time.

견뎌낸 (endured/weathered).

1

다정함은 실존적 고독을 위로하는 가장 인격적인 응답이다.

Tenderness is the most personal response that comforts existential loneliness.

인격적인 응답 (personal/human response).

2

언어의 한계를 넘어서는 다정함은 침묵 속에서도 그 빛을 발한다.

Tenderness that transcends the limits of language shines even in silence.

빛을 발하다 (to shine/emit light).

3

그의 철학은 인간에 대한 근원적인 다정함에 기반을 두고 있다.

His philosophy is based on a fundamental affection for humanity.

기반을 두다 (to be based on).

4

다정함의 부재는 사회적 소외와 비인간화를 가속화하는 원인이 된다.

The absence of tenderness becomes a cause for accelerating social alienation and dehumanization.

부재 (absence).

5

진정으로 강한 자만이 타인에게 변함없는 다정함을 베풀 수 있다.

Only those who are truly strong can bestow unchanging tenderness upon others.

베풀다 (to bestow/give).

6

다정함은 파편화된 현대인의 삶을 잇는 보이지 않는 실과 같다.

Tenderness is like an invisible thread connecting the fragmented lives of modern people.

파편화된 (fragmented).

7

그의 다정함은 연민의 감정을 넘어 타자의 존재 자체를 긍정하는 행위였다.

His tenderness was an act of affirming the other's existence itself, beyond feelings of pity.

긍정하는 행위 (act of affirmation).

8

다정함은 문명의 야만성을 억제하고 인간성을 수호하는 최후의 보루이다.

Tenderness is the final bastion that restrains the barbarism of civilization and protects humanity.

최후의 보루 (last bastion/stronghold).

よく使う組み合わせ

다정함이 넘치다
다정함을 느끼다
다정함에 반하다
다정함이 묻어나다
다정함을 잃지 않다
다정함이 부족하다
진심 어린 다정함
의외의 다정함
다정함이 깃들다
타고난 다정함

よく使うフレーズ

다정함의 끝판왕

— Slang-like term for someone who is the 'ultimate' example of affection.

그 캐릭터는 다정함의 끝판왕이에요.

한 조각의 다정함

— Metaphorical phrase for a tiny bit of kindness.

그에게는 한 조각의 다정함도 없었다.

다정함이 병이다

— Saying that someone is 'too' kind to the point of hurting themselves.

너는 다정함이 병이야, 거절 좀 해.

다정함이 뚝뚝 떨어지다

— Describing someone who is visibly and overwhelmingly affectionate.

눈에서 다정함이 뚝뚝 떨어지네요.

다정함으로 무장하다

— To use kindness as a way to approach or win someone over.

그는 다정함으로 무장하고 다가왔다.

다정함의 힘

— The power of kindness/affection.

다정함의 힘을 믿으세요.

숨겨진 다정함

— Hidden affection/tenderness.

그의 숨겨진 다정함을 발견했다.

다정함이 최고다

— Affection is the best (quality).

역시 남자는 다정함이 최고지.

다정함을 베풀다

— To bestow or give kindness/affection.

모두에게 다정함을 베푸는 사람이다.

다정함에 녹다

— To melt (be deeply moved) by someone's tenderness.

그의 다정함에 마음이 녹았다.

よく混同される語

다정함 vs 친절함

Politeness vs. emotional warmth. Politeness is a duty; warmth is a trait.

다정함 vs 사랑

Love vs. a specific mode of love. You can love someone without being 'dajeong'.

다정함 vs 상냥함

Sweetness/gentle manner vs. deep internal warmth.

慣用句と表現

"다정다감하다"

— To be full of affection and sentiment. Used to describe someone very warm and sensitive.

그는 다정다감한 성격이라 인기가 많다.

Common
"눈에서 꿀이 떨어지다"

— Literally 'honey drops from the eyes.' To look at someone with immense affection.

그를 보는 그녀의 눈에서 꿀이 떨어지네요.

Informal/Slang
"마음이 비단결 같다"

— To have a heart as soft as silk. Implies extreme kindness and tenderness.

우리 할머니는 마음이 비단결 같으셔.

Idiomatic
"간도 쓸개도 다 내주다"

— To give away even one's liver and gallbladder. To be limitlessly giving and affectionate.

그는 아내에게 간도 쓸개도 다 내줄 만큼 다정하다.

Idiomatic
"봄바람 같다"

— To be like a spring breeze. Describes a person whose warmth is refreshing and gentle.

그의 다정함은 봄바람 같다.

Literary
"천성적인 다정함"

— Innate/natural tenderness.

그녀의 천성적인 다정함은 숨길 수 없다.

Formal
"다정함이 밥 먹여주나"

— Does affection feed you? Used cynically to say kindness isn't practical or profitable.

다정함이 밥 먹여주니? 현실을 봐.

Sarcastic
"피도 눈물도 없다"

— To have neither blood nor tears. The total opposite of '다정함'.

그 사장은 피도 눈물도 없는 사람이다.

Idiomatic
"가슴이 따뜻한 사람"

— A warm-hearted person. A very common way to describe someone with '다정함'.

나는 가슴이 따뜻한 사람이 좋아.

Common
"살을 깎는 다정함"

— Affection that comes at a great personal cost (rare/literary).

그의 다정함은 살을 깎는 희생이었다.

Literary

間違えやすい

다정함 vs 다정 (多情)

It's the root noun.

다정 is the state; 다정함 is the quality/noun form of the adjective.

다정하게 말해줘 vs 그의 다정함.

다정함 vs 유정 (有情)

Both use the root 'Jeong'.

유정 means having feelings/sentient; 다정 means having *many* feelings/affectionate.

유정물 (sentient being) vs 다정한 사람.

다정함 vs 온정 (溫情)

Both mean warmth.

온정 is often used for 'warm-heartedness' in a broader, humanitarian, or charitable sense.

사회의 온정 (society's warmth/charity).

다정함 vs 애정 (愛情)

Both relate to affection.

애정 is closer to 'love' or 'attachment'; 다정함 is the 'gentleness' of that love.

애정이 넘치다 vs 다정함이 느껴지다.

다정함 vs 동정 (同情)

Both relate to feelings for others.

동정 is 'pity' or 'sympathy' (feeling sorry for someone). 다정함 is a general positive warmth.

그를 동정하다 vs 그의 다정함.

文型パターン

A1

[Person]의 다정함이 좋아요.

엄마의 다정함이 좋아요.

A2

[Person]의 다정함 덕분에 [Result].

선생님의 다정함 덕분에 공부가 즐거워요.

B1

[Noun]에서 [Person]의 다정함이 느껴져요.

편지에서 그의 다정함이 느껴져요.

B2

다정함은 [Noun]을/를 [Verb]하는 힘이 있다.

다정함은 사람을 변화시키는 힘이 있다.

C1

[Noun]은/는 다정함의 또 다른 표현이다.

침묵은 다정함의 또 다른 표현이다.

C2

다정함의 부재는 [Negative Outcome]을/를 초래한다.

다정함의 부재는 인간성 상실을 초래한다.

All

참 다정함이 많은 분이네요.

참 다정함이 많은 분이네요.

All

그의 다정함에 [Emotion].

그의 다정함에 감동했어요.

語族

名詞

정 (feeling/bond)
다정 (affection)
다정다감 (sentimentality)

動詞

다정하다 (to be affectionate - descriptive verb)

形容詞

다정한 (affectionate - modifying form)

関連

따뜻함
상냥함
친절함
자상함
포근함

使い方

frequency

High in emotional/personal contexts; Low in technical/scientific contexts.

よくある間違い
  • 그는 다정함이에요. 그는 다정해요 / 그는 다정한 사람이에요.

    You cannot say 'He is tenderness.' You must say 'He is tender' or 'He is a tender person.'

  • 직원이 다정함해요. 직원이 친절해요.

    Staff being polite is '친절', not '다정'. '다정' is too personal for a standard business transaction.

  • 다정함를 느껴요. 다정함을 느껴요.

    The noun ends in a consonant (ㅁ), so the object particle should be '을', not '를'.

  • 다정기 다정함

    Learners sometimes try to use other noun suffixes like -기. For this word, -함 is the standard.

  • 다정함의 날씨 따뜻한 날씨

    While you can poetically say '다정한 봄볕', usually for weather, you just use 'warm' (따뜻한).

ヒント

The Power of Jeong

Understand that '다정함' is the outward expression of 'Jeong'. When you show '다정함', you are building a lasting emotional bond that Koreans value deeply.

Nominalization

Practice turning other adjectives into nouns using '-함' (e.g., 따뜻함, 시원함) to expand your vocabulary quickly.

Contrast is Key

To remember '다정함', learn its opposite '무뚝뚝함'. Thinking of a cold, silent person makes the warm, talkative '다정한' person easier to visualize.

Soft Tones

When you talk about '다정함', try to use a soft, gentle voice. The way you say the word should reflect its meaning.

Ballad Lyrics

Listen to songs by artists like Paul Kim or Sung Si-kyung. They often sing about '다정함' and use the word with great emotional weight.

Describe the Atmosphere

Use '다정함' to describe the 'vibe' of a scene in your writing to make it feel more 'Korean' and emotionally rich.

The Ideal Type

If someone asks for your ideal type in Korean, saying '다정한 사람이 좋아요' is a safe and very popular answer.

Hanja Roots

Remember '다' (Many) and '정' (Emotion). It helps you realize the word isn't just about 'nice' behavior, but about having a 'full heart'.

Noun vs Adjective

Use the adjective '다정하다' for descriptions and the noun '다정함' for concepts or subjects.

Daily Spotting

Try to find one act of '다정함' in your life every day and label it in Korean.

暗記しよう

記憶術

Think of 'DA' as 'DA-amn' and 'JEONG' as 'Gentle'. 'Damn, he is Gentle!' DA-JEONG-HAM. It's the quality of being damn gentle and warm.

視覚的連想

Imagine a giant, warm, glowing sun (다) hugging a small, soft heart (정). The 'ham' (함) is the box that holds them together.

Word Web

Jeong (정) Warmth (따뜻함) Heart (마음) Kindness (친절) Gentle (부드러움) Love (사랑) Empathy (공감) Sweet (상냥)

チャレンジ

Try to use '다정함' in a sentence to describe your favorite fictional character today. Then, try to spot the word in a Korean ballad song lyric.

語源

Derived from the Hanja words '多' (다) and '情' (정). '다' means 'many' or 'much,' and '정' means 'feeling,' 'emotion,' or 'affection.' The suffix '-함' is a native Korean nominalizer that converts adjectives into nouns.

元の意味: A state of having many feelings or abundant affection.

Sino-Korean (roots) + Native Korean (suffix).

文化的な背景

Calling someone 'too' 다정 (affectionate) can sometimes imply they are being flirtatious or leading someone on if the relationship isn't clear.

In English, we might say 'he's a sweetheart' or 'she's very tender.' While 'kindness' is the most common translation, it lacks the 'emotional temperature' that '다정함' carries.

The character 'Choi Taek' in 'Reply 1988' is often cited as the epitome of quiet 다정함. Many Korean 'healing' essays, like those by Kim Su-hyun, emphasize the importance of self-다정함 (self-compassion). The song 'Dajeong-hi Nae Ireumeul Bureumyeon' (If You Call My Name Affectionately) by Kyeong-seo and Kyoung-seo.

実生活で練習する

実際の使用場面

Romance

  • 그의 다정함에 반했어
  • 다정한 남자가 좋아
  • 너의 다정함을 사랑해
  • 변치 않는 다정함

Family

  • 어머니의 다정함
  • 다정함이 넘치는 가정
  • 아이의 다정함
  • 할머니의 따뜻한 다정함

Literature/Lyrics

  • 다정함을 노래하다
  • 글에 담긴 다정함
  • 한 조각의 다정함
  • 다정함의 위로

Social/Work

  • 동료의 다정함
  • 다정함이 필요한 사회
  • 작은 다정함의 힘
  • 다정함을 베푸는 리더

Critique

  • 다정함이 부족하다
  • 지나친 다정함
  • 다정함을 가장한 무관심
  • 다정함의 부재

会話のきっかけ

"당신이 생각하는 가장 다정한 사람은 누구인가요? (Who is the most affectionate person you know?)"

"사람의 어떤 행동에서 다정함을 느끼나요? (In what actions do you feel someone's warmth?)"

"다정함이 세상을 바꿀 수 있다고 믿으시나요? (Do you believe tenderness can change the world?)"

"최근에 누군가에게 다정함을 베푼 적이 있나요? (Have you recently shown affection to someone?)"

"연인을 고를 때 다정함이 얼마나 중요한가요? (How important is an affectionate nature when choosing a partner?)"

日記のテーマ

오늘 내가 느낀 누군가의 다정함에 대해 써보세요. (Write about someone's kindness you felt today.)

나 자신에게 조금 더 다정해질 수 있는 방법 3가지를 적어보세요. (Write 3 ways you can be kinder to yourself.)

다정함이 사라진 세상을 상상해보고 그 느낌을 묘사해보세요. (Imagine a world without tenderness and describe that feeling.)

내가 닮고 싶은 다정한 인물에 대해 설명해보세요. (Explain an affectionate person you want to emulate.)

다정함과 친절함의 차이에 대한 나의 생각을 정리해보세요. (Organize your thoughts on the difference between tenderness and politeness.)

よくある質問

10 問

Mostly yes, but it can be used for things that feel warm and welcoming, like a '다정한 목소리' (affectionate voice) or even metaphorically for nature, like '다정한 봄볕' (tender spring sun).

Yes, to describe a supportive colleague or boss, but '친절함' is more common for professional interactions with clients.

It is a popular term for a man who is exceptionally warm, caring, and sweet. It's often the 'ideal type' for many people.

You would say '그는 다정함이 많아요' (He has a lot of affection) or '그는 다정한 사람이에요' (He is an affectionate person).

Generally no, but if someone is '다정' to everyone, a partner might feel jealous or think the person lacks boundaries.

They are very close. 따뜻함 is 'warmth' (general), whereas 다정함 specifically highlights the 'affectionate' and 'tender' nature of that warmth.

Rarely. The military usually values '강인함' (toughness) or '절도' (discipline). However, a leader could be praised for his '다정함' toward his soldiers.

Yes, especially pets like dogs that show visible affection to their owners.

Extremely. It appears in countless lyrics describing a lover's touch, voice, or character.

No, '-함' is a pure Korean suffix used for nominalization.

自分をテスト 200 問

writing

Write a sentence using '다정함' and '어머니'.

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

正解! おしい! 正解:
writing

Describe your best friend using '다정함'.

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writing

Write a sentence about why '다정함' is important.

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writing

Translate: 'I can feel his tenderness in this letter.'

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writing

Compare '다정함' and '친절함' in one sentence.

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writing

Write a short poem line about '다정함'.

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writing

Describe the atmosphere of a cozy cafe using '다정함'.

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writing

Write a sentence about self-compassion using '다정함'.

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writing

Translate: 'His affection was enough to change her mind.'

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writing

Describe a '다정남' character you know.

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writing

Explain the etymology of '다정함' in Korean.

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writing

Write a sentence using '다정함' and '부족하다'.

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writing

Translate: 'She fell for his unexpected tenderness.'

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writing

Describe a childhood memory involving '다정함'.

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writing

Write a formal sentence about leadership and '다정함'.

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writing

Describe a 'dajeong' father.

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writing

Translate: 'Tenderness is a silent language.'

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writing

Write a diary entry about a kind stranger.

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writing

Describe the feeling of a hug using '다정함'.

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writing

Explain why '다정함' is valued in Korea.

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speaking

Pronounce '다정함' clearly.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say 'I like his warmth' in Korean.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Describe your ideal type using '다정함'.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Ask a friend if they think you are affectionate.

Read this aloud:

正解! おしい! 正解:
speaking

Tell someone 'Thanks for your kindness' using the noun.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say 'She is the ultimate in affection.'

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Discuss if men should be 'dajeong'.

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speaking

Say 'I can feel your warmth even over the phone.'

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Explain the difference between '다정함' and '친절함'.

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speaking

Compliment a teacher's warmth.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say 'True affection comes from the heart.'

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Ask 'Where did your tenderness go?'

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Tell a child to be kind to animals.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say 'I missed your warmth.'

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Talk about a 'dajeong' character in a drama.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say 'Tenderness is not weakness.'

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Describe a warm house atmosphere.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say 'I am moved by your warmth.'

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Ask 'Is he affectionate?' using the noun.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Discuss the lack of warmth in modern cities.

Read this aloud:

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listening

Listen to a song clip: '그대의 다정함이 나를...' What comes next?

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listening

Listen and identify the word: '다.정.함.'

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listening

Listen to a dialogue: '그 사람 어때?' '정말 다정함이 넘치더라.' Is the person cold?

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listening

Listen and choose the synonym heard: '따뜻함'.

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listening

Listen to a sentence: '다정함은 공짜입니다.' What is free?

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listening

Listen and write: '어머니의 다정함'.

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listening

Listen to a drama line: '내 다정함이 부담스러워?' Is the speaker worried their warmth is a burden?

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listening

Listen and translate: '그의 다정함에 속지 마.'

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listening

Listen to a poem: '다정함이 꽃 피는 계절'. What is blooming?

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listening

Listen and identify the particle: '다정함을'.

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listening

Listen to a question: '그의 다정함이 느껴지니?' Answer in English.

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listening

Listen and choose: '다정함' vs '단단함'.

正解! おしい! 正解:
正解! おしい! 正解:
listening

Listen to a phrase: '작은 다정함'. What size is it?

正解! おしい! 正解:
正解! おしい! 正解:
listening

Listen to a news clip: '사회의 다정함이 필요한 때입니다.' What does society need?

正解! おしい! 正解:
正解! おしい! 正解:
listening

Listen and write the Hanja-based noun: '다정함'.

正解! おしい! 正解:
正解! おしい! 正解:
error correction

그는 다정함이에요.

正解! おしい! 正解: 그는 다정해요 / 그는 다정한 사람이에요.

You cannot equate a person with an abstract noun directly like this.

error correction

다정함를 보여줘.

正解! おしい! 正解: 다정함을 보여줘.

The particle '을' must follow the consonant 'ㅁ'.

error correction

그의 다정함에 반했어을.

正解! おしい! 正解: 그의 다정함에 반했어.

The object marker is not needed after the verb '반했어'.

error correction

다정함이 부족해요를.

正解! おしい! 正解: 다정함이 부족해요.

The particle '를' is incorrectly attached to the end of the sentence.

error correction

다정기 넘치는 사람.

正解! おしい! 正解: 다정함이 넘치는 사람.

-함 is the correct nominalizer for this word.

error correction

다정한함.

正解! おしい! 正解: 다정함.

Don't combine the adjective form and noun suffix.

error correction

그녀의 다정함는 따뜻해.

正解! おしい! 正解: 그녀의 다정함은 따뜻해.

Use '은' after a consonant.

error correction

다정함이 있는 날씨.

正解! おしい! 正解: 따뜻한 날씨.

Usually '다정함' is for people/feelings, not weather.

error correction

다정함으로 말해요.

正解! おしい! 正解: 다정하게 말해요.

Adverb '다정하게' is more natural for describing the way of speaking.

error correction

다정함의 끝판왕이다.

正解! おしい! 正解: 다정함의 끝판왕이다.

Actually correct, but often confused with '친절함의 끝판왕'.

/ 200 correct

Perfect score!

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