신기하다
신기하다 in 30 Seconds
- 신기하다 means 'fascinating' or 'remarkable' and is used for things that are new and surprising.
- It is a very common reaction word in daily Korean, often used with '우와' (Wow).
- The word is derived from Hanja meaning 'new' and 'strange,' perfectly capturing its essence.
- It differs from '이상하다' (strange) as it usually carries a positive or curious tone.
The Korean adjective 신기하다 (sin-gi-ha-da) is a versatile term used to express a sense of wonder, fascination, or novelty. At its core, it describes something that is unusual in a way that captures one's attention and sparks curiosity. Unlike the English word 'surprising,' which can sometimes carry a negative or neutral connotation, 신기하다 almost always leans towards the positive or the intellectually stimulating. It is the feeling you get when you see a magic trick, a rare natural phenomenon, or a piece of technology that seems ahead of its time.
- Primary Nuance
- The discovery of something new, unexpected, and intriguing.
- Emotional Response
- A mix of curiosity, delight, and mild disbelief.
- Visual Stimulus
- Often used for things seen for the first time or things that defy common logic.
"와, 이 마술 진짜 신기하다! 어떻게 한 거지?" (Wow, this magic trick is really amazing! How did they do it?)
In a broader sense, 신기하다 encompasses the English concepts of 'marvelous,' 'wondrous,' and 'fascinating.' It is derived from the Hanja 新 (신 - new) and 奇 (기 - strange/unusual). This etymological root perfectly captures the essence of the word: something that is both new and out of the ordinary. It is not just that something is 'new' (새롭다), but that its 'newness' is 'strange' or 'extraordinary' (기이하다).
"세상에는 참 신기한 일이 많아요." (There are truly many wondrous things in the world.)
- Usage in Science
- Describing a biological adaptation or a chemical reaction.
- Usage in Daily Life
- Seeing a friend you haven't seen in years in a random place.
"여기서 만나다니 정말 신기하네요." (It's really fascinating/surprising to meet you here.)
"우리 신발이 똑같네요? 신기하다!" (Our shoes are the same? That's cool/fascinating!)
- Degree of Intensity
- Can be modified by '진짜' (really), '매우' (very), or '무척' (extremely).
"그 기술은 볼 때마다 신기해요." (That technology is fascinating every time I see it.)
Using 신기하다 correctly involves understanding its role as a descriptive verb (adjective) and how it interacts with different subjects and contexts. Because it describes a state of being 'fascinating' or 'remarkable,' it usually takes the subject marker -이/가 for the thing that is fascinating.
- Basic Conjugation
- Present: 신기해요 (Polite), 신기해 (Casual), 신기합니다 (Formal).
- Past Tense
- 신기했어요 (It was fascinating), 신기했어 (Casual).
- Future/Supposition
- 신기하겠다 (That must be fascinating/That would be cool).
"그 소식 들었어? 진짜 신기하더라." (Did you hear that news? It was really fascinating.)
When modifying a noun, you use the form 신기한. For example, 'a fascinating story' is 신기한 이야기, and 'a remarkable person' is 신기한 사람. It's important to note that while '신기한 사람' can mean someone remarkable, it can sometimes imply someone 'strange' or 'eccentric' depending on the tone, so use it carefully when referring to people.
"이 작은 기계가 작동하는 게 신기해요." (It's fascinating how this small machine works.)
- Adverbial Form
- 신기하게 (In a fascinating way / Strangely enough).
- Common Adverb Usage
- '신기하게도' (Fascinatingly enough/Miraculously) is often used at the start of sentences.
"신기하게도 비가 갑자기 그쳤어요." (Strangely enough, the rain stopped suddenly.)
In conversation, 신기하다 is frequently used as a one-word reaction. When someone tells you an interesting fact or shows you something new, simply saying "우와, 신기하다!" shows that you are paying attention and are impressed. It is a high-frequency reaction word in Korean variety shows (예능) and daily chats.
"외국인이 한국말을 너무 잘하니까 신기하네요." (It's fascinating to see a foreigner speak Korean so well.)
You will encounter 신기하다 in almost every facet of Korean life, from casual street conversations to high-level scientific discussions. It is a staple of the Korean vocabulary because it bridges the gap between 'interesting' (재미있다) and 'surprising' (놀랍다). Here are the primary contexts where you will hear it most often:
- Korean Variety Shows (Entertainment)
- Cast members often shout '신기하다!' when they see a special guest, a new gadget, or a beautiful travel destination.
- Science and Nature Documentaries
- Narrators use it to describe the 'wonders' of the natural world or the 'marvels' of the universe.
- Social Interactions
- When friends discover they have a mutual acquaintance or a shared hobby.
"TV에서 보던 사람을 실제로 보니까 정말 신기해요." (It's really fascinating to see someone in person whom I only saw on TV.)
In the workplace, it might be used when a new, efficient system is introduced. A colleague might say, "이 프로그램 정말 신기하네요. 일이 훨씬 빨라졌어요." (This program is really remarkable. Work has become much faster.) In education, teachers use it to pique students' curiosity: "이 실험 결과가 참 신기하죠?" (This experiment result is quite fascinating, isn't it?)
"쌍둥이가 성격이 이렇게 다르다니 신기할 따름이에요." (It's just fascinating that twins have such different personalities.)
- Travel Contexts
- Describing a unique local custom or a breathtaking view that looks 'out of this world.'
- Technology Reviews
- Describing the features of the latest smartphone or AI capabilities.
"AI가 그림을 그리는 게 너무 신기해서 계속 보게 돼요." (It's so fascinating that AI draws pictures that I keep watching it.)
"어떻게 이런 생각을 했는지 참 신기하네요." (It's truly fascinating how you came up with such an idea.)
While 신기하다 is a common word, learners often confuse it with other similar-sounding or similar-meaning words. The most frequent mistake is using it when 놀랍다 (surprising) or 이상하다 (strange/weird) would be more appropriate.
- Confusing with '이상하다' (Strange)
- If something is 'strange' in a negative or confusing way, use '이상하다'. If it's 'strange' in a cool or fascinating way, use '신기하다'.
- Confusing with '놀랍다' (Surprising)
- '놀랍다' is for shock or great amazement (like a world record). '신기하다' is for novelty and curiosity (like a glowing fish).
- Overusing it for 'Interesting'
- Don't use '신기하다' for a fun movie; use '재미있다'. Use '신기하다' if the movie used a brand-new filming technique you've never seen.
"음식 맛이 이상해요." (The food tastes strange - Correct) vs. "음식 맛이 신기해요." (The food tastes fascinating/novel - Correct only if it's a new, cool flavor experience).
Another mistake is the grammatical placement. Since it is an adjective, it cannot take an object. You cannot say "나는 그것을 신기해요" (Incorrect). You must say "그것이 신기해요" (That is fascinating) or "나는 그것이 신기하다고 생각해요" (I think that is fascinating).
"신기한 사람" vs "이상한 사람". The former is a 'remarkable person,' the latter is a 'weird person.' Be careful which one you call your boss!
- Spelling Errors
- Sometimes confused with '신선하다' (fresh). They sound slightly similar but mean very different things.
"이 아이디어는 참 신선하고 신기하네요." (This idea is very fresh and fascinating.) - Using both correctly.
"그는 신기하게도 모든 답을 맞혔다." (Fascinatingly/Miraculously, he got all the answers right.)
To truly master 신기하다, it helps to compare it with its synonyms and related terms. Each has a slightly different shade of meaning that can make your Korean sound more precise and natural.
- 신비하다 (Sin-bi-ha-da)
- Mysterious or mystical. Used for things like the 'mysteries of the universe' or a 'mystical forest.' It carries a more profound, spiritual, or hidden weight than '신기하다'.
- 놀랍다 (Nol-lap-da)
- Surprising or amazing. Focuses on the shock or the magnitude of an achievement. If a child plays piano like a pro, it's '놀랍다'.
- 기묘하다 (Gi-myo-ha-da)
- Strange, odd, or peculiar. Often used in literature or for things that are slightly eerie or hard to explain.
"우주의 탄생은 정말 신비로워요." (The birth of the universe is truly mysterious/mystical.)
Another related word is 경이롭다 (Gyeong-i-rop-da), which means 'wonderful' or 'marvelous' in a very high-level, formal sense. You might use this when looking at the Grand Canyon or a masterpiece of art. It is much more formal than 신기하다. Then there is 희한하다 (Hui-han-ha-da), which means 'rare' or 'strange.' It is often used when something is so unusual that it's almost hard to believe, sometimes with a hint of skepticism.
"그의 기억력은 정말 경이로운 수준입니다." (His memory is at a truly marvelous/awe-inspiring level.)
- 색다르다 (Saek-da-reu-da)
- To be unusual or different in a refreshing way. 'A different kind of charm.'
- 특이하다 (Teuk-i-ha-da)
- To be unique or peculiar. Often used for personality traits or specific features.
"이 카페는 인테리어가 참 특이하네요." (This cafe's interior is quite unique/peculiar.)
"세상에 이런 희한한 일이 다 있네요." (How can such a strange/rare thing happen in this world?)
How Formal Is It?
Difficulty Rating
Grammar to Know
-네요 (Exclamatory ending)
-는 게 (Turning a verb phrase into a noun)
-아/어서 (Reason/Cause)
-ㄴ/은 (Adjective marker)
-ㄹ 정도로 (To the extent of)
Examples by Level
우와, 정말 신기해요!
Wow, it's really amazing!
Simple present polite form.
이거 신기해.
This is cool/fascinating.
Casual form.
신기한 물건이에요.
It's a fascinating object.
Adjective form modifying a noun.
마술이 신기해요.
The magic is amazing.
Subject + Adjective.
신기한 동물이 많아요.
There are many fascinating animals.
Adjective form + Noun + 많다.
하늘이 신기해요.
The sky is fascinating.
Simple subject-adjective sentence.
정말 신기하다!
Truly amazing!
Plain form used as an exclamation.
신기한 꽃이에요.
It's a fascinating flower.
Adjective form.
어제 본 영화가 정말 신기했어요.
The movie I saw yesterday was really fascinating.
Past tense polite form.
이 핸드폰 기능이 신기해요.
This phone's feature is fascinating.
Noun + Function + Subject marker.
신기한 이야기를 들었어요.
I heard a fascinating story.
Adjective + Noun + Object marker.
그 마술사는 신기한 기술이 많아요.
That magician has many amazing skills.
Possessive structure.
바다 속에는 신기한 생물이 살아요.
Fascinating creatures live in the sea.
Location marker + Subject marker.
이 요리는 맛이 참 신기하네요.
This dish has a very fascinating taste.
-네요 ending for realization.
신기한 곳에 가고 싶어요.
I want to go to a fascinating place.
-고 싶다 (want to).
우리 생일이 같은 게 신기해요.
It's fascinating that our birthdays are the same.
-는 게 (the fact that) + 신기하다.
신기하게도 잃어버린 반지를 찾았어요.
Fascinatingly enough, I found the lost ring.
Adverbial form '신기하게도'.
외국에서 친구를 만난다는 게 정말 신기해요.
It's really fascinating to meet a friend in a foreign country.
-는다는 게 (the fact that) structure.
이 작은 씨앗에서 큰 나무가 자라는 게 신기해요.
It's fascinating that a big tree grows from this small seed.
Describing a natural process.
과학 실험 결과가 너무 신기해서 계속 봤어요.
The science experiment result was so fascinating that I kept watching.
-아/어서 (reason/cause).
그의 목소리가 가수와 똑같아서 신기했어요.
It was fascinating because his voice was exactly like the singer's.
Comparison + Reason.
세상에는 우리가 모르는 신기한 일들이 많아요.
There are many fascinating things in the world that we don't know.
Relative clause modifying '신기한 일들'.
신기하게 생긴 구름을 봤어요.
I saw a cloud that was shaped in a fascinating way.
Adverb modifying a verb (생기다).
꿈에서 본 일이 실제로 일어나서 신기해요.
It's fascinating because something I saw in a dream actually happened.
Past participle + Reason.
기술의 발전은 정말 신기할 따름입니다.
The development of technology is simply fascinating.
-ㄹ 따름이다 (nothing but/simply).
인간의 뇌가 작동하는 방식은 참으로 신기합니다.
The way the human brain works is truly fascinating.
Formal ending + Adverb '참으로'.
신기하게도 그 두 사건은 아무런 연관이 없었습니다.
Fascinatingly, those two events had no connection at all.
Sentence-starting adverb.
아이들이 언어를 배우는 과정은 볼 때마다 신기해요.
The process of children learning a language is fascinating every time I see it.
-ㄹ 때마다 (every time).
이 오래된 건물이 아직도 튼튼하다는 사실이 신기하네요.
The fact that this old building is still sturdy is fascinating.
-다는 사실 (the fact that).
신기한 현상을 연구하기 위해 많은 과학자들이 모였습니다.
Many scientists gathered to study the fascinating phenomenon.
-기 위해 (in order to).
그의 연기는 관객들을 신기한 세계로 인도했습니다.
His acting led the audience into a fascinating world.
Metaphorical usage.
자연의 신비로움과 신기함은 끝이 없습니다.
The mystery and fascination of nature are endless.
Noun form '신기함'.
언어의 사회적 변천 과정을 지켜보는 것은 매우 신기한 경험입니다.
Observing the social transition of language is a very fascinating experience.
Complex subject phrase.
그 작가는 일상적인 소재를 신기한 시각으로 재해석합니다.
The author reinterprets everyday subjects from a fascinating perspective.
Abstract usage of '시각' (perspective).
신기하게도 역사는 반복된다는 말이 틀린 것 같지 않아요.
Fascinatingly, the saying that history repeats itself doesn't seem wrong.
Integrating an idiom.
미시 세계의 물리 법칙은 거시 세계와 달라 매우 신기하게 느껴집니다.
The laws of physics in the micro-world are different from the macro-world, so they feel very fascinating.
Scientific context.
그의 성공 비결은 신기할 정도로 단순했습니다.
The secret to his success was fascinatingly simple.
-ㄹ 정도로 (to the degree of).
전혀 다른 문화권에서 유사한 신화가 발견된다는 점이 신기합니다.
It is fascinating that similar myths are found in completely different cultures.
-는 점 (the point/fact that).
신기하게도 마음을 비우니 오히려 일이 더 잘 풀리기 시작했습니다.
Fascinatingly, once I cleared my mind, things actually started to work out better.
Psychological context.
그 건축물의 기하학적 구조는 신기함을 넘어 경외감을 줍니다.
The geometric structure of that building goes beyond fascination and inspires awe.
Comparing '신기함' with '경외감'.
양자 역학의 중첩 현상은 인간의 직관으로는 이해하기 힘든 신기한 영역입니다.
The superposition phenomenon in quantum mechanics is a fascinating realm difficult to understand through human intuition.
High-level scientific terminology.
그 철학자는 존재의 신기함을 탐구하는 데 평생을 바쳤습니다.
The philosopher devoted his entire life to exploring the fascination of existence.
Philosophical context.
신기하게도 고립된 섬의 생태계는 독자적인 진화의 길을 걸어왔습니다.
Fascinatingly, the ecosystem of the isolated island has followed its own path of evolution.
Biological/Evolutionary context.
작가의 상상력이 현실로 구현되는 과정은 언제나 신기한 전율을 느끼게 합니다.
The process of an author's imagination being realized into reality always makes one feel a fascinating thrill.
Evocative language.
우연의 일치라고 하기에는 너무나 신기한 사건들이 연달아 발생했습니다.
Events that were too fascinating to be called mere coincidences occurred in succession.
-라고 하기에는 (to call it...).
디지털 가상 현실이 실제 감각을 완벽히 재현한다는 것은 신기한 일입니다.
It is a fascinating thing that digital virtual reality perfectly reproduces actual senses.
Technological discourse.
신기하게도 침묵은 때로 백 마디 말보다 더 강력한 메시지를 전달합니다.
Fascinatingly, silence sometimes conveys a more powerful message than a hundred words.
Abstract/Metaphorical usage.
인간 정신의 회복 탄력성은 참으로 신기하고도 위대한 힘입니다.
The resilience of the human spirit is truly a fascinating and great power.
-고도 (and also).
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
Often Confused With
Idioms & Expressions
Easily Confused
Sentence Patterns
How to Use It
Strongly associated with seeing something new.
Usually implies a good or neutral surprise, rarely used for bad news.
- Using '신기하다' for a scary surprise.
- Using '신기하다' for a boring but 'strange' situation (use '이상하다' instead).
- Saying '나는 그것을 신기해요' (Incorrect marker).
- Confusing '신기하다' with '신선하다' (Fresh).
- Using it to mean 'fun' (재미있다) in general contexts.
Tips
Social Reaction
In Korea, saying '신기하다' is a great way to show you are impressed by someone's story. It builds a positive atmosphere in conversations.
Adjective vs Verb
Remember that '신기하다' is an adjective. It describes the subject. Don't use an object marker (-을/를) with it.
Intonation Matters
Use a rising tone to ask 'Isn't it amazing?' (신기하죠?) and a falling, lingering tone to express awe (신기하다...).
Hanja Power
Knowing that 'Sin' means 'New' helps you remember this word and others like 'Sinsun' (Fresh) or 'Sin-sang' (New arrival).
Variety Shows
Watch Korean variety shows like 'Running Man.' You will hear '신기하다' constantly whenever a game has a twist.
Adverbial Start
Start your sentences with '신기하게도' to make your stories sound more dramatic and engaging.
Coincidences
Always use '신기하다' when you find out you have something in common with someone you just met.
Positive Surprise
Keep '신기하다' for things that make you smile or think, not things that make you angry or sad.
Internet Slang
On the internet, you might see 'ㄱㅅㄱ' which stands for '개신기' (extremely fascinating). Use it only with close friends.
Visual Association
Visualize a 'New' (Sin) 'Gift' (Gi) that is very fascinating to open.
Memorize It
Word Origin
新 (New) + 奇 (Strange/Unusual)
Cultural Context
Extremely common in 'Mukbang' or 'Travel' vlogs to describe new tastes or sights.
Using '신기하다' helps build rapport by showing shared wonder.
Korean culture values expressive reactions (리액션), and this is a top-tier reaction word.
Practice in Real Life
Real-World Contexts
Conversation Starters
"최근에 본 것 중에 가장 신기한 게 뭐예요? (What's the most fascinating thing you've seen lately?)"
"마술 좋아하세요? 저는 마술이 정말 신기하더라고요. (Do you like magic? I find it really fascinating.)"
"한국에서 가장 신기했던 경험이 뭐예요? (What was your most fascinating experience in Korea?)"
"이 기계 사용법 아세요? 정말 신기하게 작동하네요. (Do you know how to use this machine? It works in a fascinating way.)"
"우리가 같은 동네에 살았다니 정말 신기하지 않아요? (Isn't it fascinating that we lived in the same neighborhood?)"
Journal Prompts
오늘 하루 중 가장 신기했던 일에 대해 써 보세요. (Write about the most fascinating thing that happened today.)
당신이 생각하는 세상에서 가장 신기한 기술은 무엇인가요? (What do you think is the most fascinating technology in the world?)
어렸을 때 가장 신기하게 느껴졌던 것은 무엇인가요? (What felt most fascinating to you when you were a child?)
신기한 우연의 일치를 경험한 적이 있나요? (Have you ever experienced a fascinating coincidence?)
사람들이 왜 마술을 신기해한다고 생각하나요? (Why do you think people find magic fascinating?)
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questionsYes, but be careful. '신기한 사람' can mean a remarkable person, but it can also imply someone who is a bit of an 'oddball' or 'eccentric.' It's safer to use it for their skills or actions.
It is neutral. You can use it in both casual and formal settings by changing the ending (신기해 vs 신기합니다).
'신기하다' is for everyday wonders like a cool gadget. '신비하다' is for deeper, mystical things like the universe or ancient myths.
Yes, if the movie has very unusual visuals or a unique concept. If it's just 'fun,' use '재미있는 영화'.
You can say '별로 안 신기해요' or '그렇게 신기하지 않아요'.
It's a cute, slangy way of saying 'very fascinating.' It's often used with children or among close friends.
Yes, if the taste is very unique or the presentation is unusual. '맛이 신기해요' means the flavor is fascinating.
The most common opposite is '평범하다' (ordinary) or '지루하다' (boring).
It can imply a miracle in casual speech (신기하게도 살아났다), but the specific word for miracle is '기적적이다'.
No, '신기하다' is generally positive. For scary things, use '무섭다' or '놀랍다'.
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Summary
Use '신기하다' whenever you encounter something that makes you curious or impressed by its novelty. It's the perfect word for magic tricks, coincidences, and cool new technology, helping you sound naturally engaged in Korean conversations.
- 신기하다 means 'fascinating' or 'remarkable' and is used for things that are new and surprising.
- It is a very common reaction word in daily Korean, often used with '우와' (Wow).
- The word is derived from Hanja meaning 'new' and 'strange,' perfectly capturing its essence.
- It differs from '이상하다' (strange) as it usually carries a positive or curious tone.
Social Reaction
In Korea, saying '신기하다' is a great way to show you are impressed by someone's story. It builds a positive atmosphere in conversations.
Adjective vs Verb
Remember that '신기하다' is an adjective. It describes the subject. Don't use an object marker (-을/를) with it.
Intonation Matters
Use a rising tone to ask 'Isn't it amazing?' (신기하죠?) and a falling, lingering tone to express awe (신기하다...).
Hanja Power
Knowing that 'Sin' means 'New' helps you remember this word and others like 'Sinsun' (Fresh) or 'Sin-sang' (New arrival).
Related Content
This Word in Other Languages
Related Phrases
More emotions words
받아들이다
A2To accept, to embrace, to take in.
아파하다
A2To feel pain or sorrow.
감탄스럽다
A2To be admirable or wonderful; to inspire awe.
감탄
A2Admiration or marvel; a feeling of wonder.
감탄하다
A2To admire or to marvel; to express wonder.
기특하다
B1Admirable for a good deed or thought; commendable.
충고
B1Guidance or recommendations offered with regard to prudent future action; advice.
애정
B1Affection; a gentle feeling of fondness or liking.
애틋하다
B2To be tender, fond, or wistful.
살갑다
B2To be warm, friendly, affectionate.