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또렷하다

A2 adjective 9 min read

또렷하다

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Practice it Examples Notes & Tips 또렷하다 in 30 Seconds

Explanation 또렷하다 in your Level:

At the A1 level, you can think of 또렷하다 as a word for 'very clear' when you see or hear something. Imagine you are looking at a picture. If the picture is not blurry and you can see the eyes and nose easily, it is 또렷하다. If someone speaks very slowly and loudly so you can understand every word, their voice is 또렷하다. You might use it simply with things like '글씨' (handwriting) or '목소리' (voice). It is a helpful word to know when you want to tell someone that you can see or hear them well. Even though it is an A2 word, A1 learners can use it in simple sentences like '잘 보여요' (It looks clear/또렷해요). Focus on the idea of 'not blurry.'

At the A2 level, you should start using 또렷하다 to describe things more specifically than just '좋다' (good) or '크다' (big). You can use it to describe facial features (이목구비), sounds (소리), or even simple memories (기억). You will learn to use the adverb form 또렷하게 to describe how people speak or how things appear. For example, '또렷하게 말해요' (Speak clearly). You should also be able to distinguish it from '깨끗하다' (clean). This word helps you move from basic descriptions to more detailed ones about the quality of what you perceive with your eyes and ears.

At the B1 level, you can expand your use of 또렷하다 to more abstract concepts like '정신' (mind/consciousness) and '차이' (difference). You might use it to describe a vivid dream or a memory from your childhood that hasn't faded. You will also start to see the difference between 또렷하다 and 선명하다 (vivid). While '선명하다' is great for colors on a TV, '또렷하다' is better for the sharp lines of a drawing. You can use it in more complex sentence structures, like '기억이 또렷하게 남아 있어요' (The memory remains clearly). This level is about using the word to describe internal states as well as external objects.

At the B2 level, you should use 또렷하다 with precision in professional or academic contexts. You might use it to describe a '또렷한 대조' (clear contrast) between two arguments or a '또렷한 경계' (clear boundary) between two areas. You are expected to understand its nuances compared to '분명하다' and '명확하다.' For example, while a rule might be '명확하다' (precise), the way someone speaks that rule is '또렷하다.' You can also use it to describe the recovery of a patient's consciousness in a more formal way. Your usage should reflect a deep understanding of 'distinctness' vs. 'vividness.'

At the C1 level, you can use 또렷하다 to add literary flair and high-level precision to your Korean. You might use it to describe subtle sensory experiences, such as the '또렷한 감각' (distinct sensation) of the cold wind or the '또렷한 인상' (clear impression) someone left on you. You can use it in debates to point out '또렷한 한계' (clear limits) of a theory. At this level, you should be comfortable using the word in all its forms and in combination with advanced vocabulary. You might also use it to describe the '또렷한 주관' (clear subjective view) of an author. It becomes a tool for nuanced expression.

At the C2 level, you have a native-like grasp of 또렷하다. You can use it to discuss philosophical concepts like the clarity of self-awareness or the distinctness of ontological categories. You understand its historical and cultural connotations, such as why '또렷한 발음' is so highly valued in Korean social hierarchy. You can use it in high-level writing, such as legal briefs, scientific papers, or literary critiques, where the exact quality of clarity must be specified. You might even use it to describe the '또렷한 시대정신' (clear spirit of the times). Your usage is flawless and adapts perfectly to any register or context.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

또렷하다 in 30 Seconds

또렷하다 means 'clear' or 'distinct' in terms of sensory perception (sight, sound) or mental states (memories, consciousness).
It is commonly used to describe sharp facial features, clear pronunciation, and vivid memories that haven't faded over time.
The word focuses on the sharpness of boundaries and the lack of blurriness, making it different from 'clean' or 'vivid'.
In daily life, it appears in contexts like eye exams, news broadcasts, and describing air quality or high-definition technology.

The Korean adjective 또렷하다 (ddoryeothada) is a versatile word used to describe something that is clear, distinct, and easy to perceive. Unlike words that simply mean 'clean' or 'transparent,' 또렷하다 focuses on the sharpness of boundaries and the lack of ambiguity. When something is 또렷하다, there is no confusion about what it is, where it begins, or where it ends. This clarity can apply to the physical world—such as a sharp image or a loud, clear voice—or to the mental world, such as a vivid memory or a logical point. In everyday life, Koreans use this word to emphasize that something stands out clearly against its background or context.

Visual Clarity: Used when an object's shape or lines are sharp and well-defined. For example, after putting on glasses, the world looks 또렷하다.
Auditory Clarity: Used when a sound or voice is heard distinctly without being muffled or drowned out by noise.
Mental Clarity: Used for memories, consciousness, or distinctions between ideas. If you remember a childhood event as if it happened yesterday, that memory is 또렷하다.

안경을 쓰니까 글씨가 아주 또렷하다.
(Since I put on my glasses, the letters are very clear.)

You will hear this word often in professional settings where precision is required. A news anchor must have a 또렷한 발음 (clear pronunciation) to ensure the audience understands every word. Similarly, a witness in a court case might be asked if their memory of the suspect's face is 또렷하다. It carries a sense of certainty and high-definition perception. In social contexts, being '또렷하다' in one's speech or thinking is seen as a positive trait, indicating intelligence, alertness, and confidence. It is a word that bridges the gap between the physical senses and the internal cognitive state.

Furthermore, the word is frequently used in the context of health and consciousness. If someone wakes up from a deep sleep or recovers from an illness, people might say their 정신 (spirit/mind) is 또렷하다. This implies they are fully awake, alert, and capable of clear thought. It is the opposite of being '흐릿하다' (blurry or faint) or '몽롱하다' (dreamy or dazed). Whether you are looking at a mountain range on a clear day or explaining a complex theory, 또렷하다 is the go-to word for expressing that high level of resolution and distinctness.

Using 또렷하다 correctly requires understanding its role as an adjective (descriptive verb) in Korean grammar. It can function as a predicate at the end of a sentence or as a modifier for a noun. When modifying a noun, it takes the form 또렷한. When used as an adverb to describe how an action is performed (like speaking or seeing), it changes to 또렷하게. This flexibility allows it to fit into various sentence structures, from simple observations to complex descriptions of mental states.

As a Predicate: Subject + 이/가 + 또렷하다. Example: 기억이 또렷하다 (The memory is clear).
As a Noun Modifier: 또렷한 + Noun. Example: 또렷한 목소리 (A clear voice).
As an Adverb: 또렷하게 + Verb. Example: 또렷하게 들리다 (To be heard clearly).

그녀는 자신의 의견을 또렷하게 밝혔다.
(She stated her opinion clearly.)

In more advanced usage, 또렷하다 is often paired with words related to perception and cognition. Common subjects include 기억 (memory), 의식 (consciousness), 윤곽 (outline), 발음 (pronunciation), and 차이 (difference). For instance, when discussing the difference between two similar products, you might say '차이가 또렷하다' to mean the distinction is obvious and sharp. In creative writing, it is used to describe the vividness of a landscape, like the 또렷한 산맥의 선 (the clear line of the mountain range) against the sunset.

When conjugating for politeness, it becomes 또렷해요 (informal polite) or 또렷합니다 (formal polite). In the past tense, it is 또렷했다 (또렷했어요 / 또렷했습니다). Because it describes a state, it is rarely used in the progressive (-고 있다) or imperative (-으세요) forms unless you are using the adverbial '또렷하게' with an action verb, such as '또렷하게 말하세요' (Please speak clearly). This distinction is crucial for learners to sound natural in conversation.

You will encounter 또렷하다 in a variety of real-world scenarios in Korea. One of the most common places is in the media. News announcers and radio hosts are frequently praised for their '또렷한 발음' (clear pronunciation). If a reporter is speaking from a windy location, they might apologize if their voice isn't '또렷하게' coming through. In TV dramas, especially medical or legal ones, you'll hear doctors checking if a patient's '정신이 또렷한지' (if their mind is clear/conscious) or lawyers asking if a witness's '기억이 또렷한지' (if their memory is clear).

In the Clinic: An optometrist might ask, '이제 글자가 또렷하게 보이세요?' (Do the letters look clear now?).
In Education: A teacher might tell students to '또렷하게 적으세요' (write clearly) so that the homework is easy to read.
In Technology: Advertisements for high-definition TVs or smartphone cameras often use '또렷하다' to describe the sharpness of the image.

이 사진은 얼굴이 또렷하게 잘 나왔네요.
(The face came out very clearly in this photo.)

Another interesting context is in nature and weather reports. On a day with low fine dust (미세먼지), the mountains in the distance might appear '또렷하다.' This is a common topic of conversation in Korea, where air quality fluctuates. People might say, '오늘 공기가 맑아서 남산타워가 또렷하게 보이네요' (The air is clean today, so N Seoul Tower is clearly visible). It conveys a sense of refreshing clarity and beauty. You might also hear it in the context of facial features; someone with '또렷한 이목구비' (distinct facial features) is often considered very attractive in Korean culture, as it implies sharp, well-defined eyes, nose, and mouth.

In literature and music, '또렷하다' is used to evoke nostalgia or deep emotion. A songwriter might describe a '또렷한 꿈' (vivid dream) of a past lover, or a novelist might describe the '또렷한 발자국' (distinct footprints) left in the snow. It adds a layer of sensory detail that makes the narrative more immersive. Whether in a mundane conversation about a blurry photo or a profound discussion about consciousness, '또렷하다' provides the necessary linguistic precision to describe the quality of being unmistakable and sharp.

While 또렷하다 is a common word, learners often confuse it with other adjectives that mean 'clear' or 'vivid.' The most frequent mistake is using it interchangeably with 선명하다 (vivid), 분명하다 (clear/certain), or 깨끗하다 (clean). Understanding the subtle differences in nuance is key to avoiding these errors and speaking more like a native.

Confusion with 선명하다 (Sun-myeong-ha-da): 선명하다 focuses on the brightness and richness of colors or the high quality of an image. 또렷하다 focuses on the sharpness of lines and the distinctness of shapes. Use 선명하다 for a colorful sunset, but 또렷하다 for the sharp outline of the mountain.
Confusion with 분명하다 (Bun-myeong-ha-da): 분명하다 is often about logical certainty or obviousness. 'It is clear (분명하다) that he is lying.' 또렷하다 is more about sensory perception. 'His voice was clear (또렷하다).' While they overlap in 'mental clarity,' 분명하다 is more abstract.
Confusion with 깨끗하다 (Ggae-kkeut-ha-da): 깨끗하다 means 'clean' or 'pure' (free from dirt). A window can be 깨끗하다 (clean), which makes the view 또렷하다 (clear/distinct). They are cause and effect, but not the same thing.

❌ 이 물은 또렷하다.
✅ 이 물은 투명하다 (transparent) or 깨끗하다 (clean).
(You don't usually call water 'distinct'; you call it clear or clean.)

Another mistake is in the adverbial form. Learners might say '또렷하게 보여요' when they mean they can see 'well' in a general sense (잘 보여요). While not strictly wrong, '또렷하게' specifically implies that the focus is sharp. If you're at the back of a room and can't hear, you should say '안 들려요' or '잘 안 들려요,' but if the sound is fuzzy, then '또렷하게 안 들려요' is more appropriate. Using the word too broadly can make your speech sound slightly unnatural or overly dramatic.

Finally, avoid using '또렷하다' for emotions or abstract feelings like 'I feel clear today' in terms of happiness. For that, you would use '상쾌하다' (refreshing) or '기분이 좋다.' '또렷하다' is strictly for the clarity of perception or thought. By keeping these distinctions in mind, you can use the word with the same precision that the word itself describes.

In Korean, there are several words that share the semantic space of 'clarity.' Choosing the right one depends on whether you are talking about colors, logic, honesty, or physical cleanliness. Here is a breakdown of how 또렷하다 compares to its closest relatives. Understanding these synonyms will help you choose the most '또렷한' word for your situation.

선명하다 (Sun-myeong-ha-da): Focus: Vividness and color. Use for: High-definition TV, bright red flowers, a clear photograph. Comparison: 또렷하다 is about the edges; 선명하다 is about the richness of the image.
분명하다 (Bun-myeong-ha-da): Focus: Certainty and lack of doubt. Use for: Facts, intentions, logical conclusions. Comparison: 또렷하다 is perceptual; 분명하다 is often cognitive or situational.
명확하다 (Myeong-hwak-ha-da): Focus: Precision and accuracy. Use for: Instructions, goals, definitions. Comparison: 명확하다 sounds more formal and academic than 또렷하다.

Word Primary Use Example
또렷하다 Distinct edges/sounds 또렷한 목소리
선명하다 Vivid colors/images 선명한 색깔
명확하다 Precise logic/rules 명확한 답변

Word	Primary Use	Example
또렷하다	Distinct edges/sounds	또렷한 목소리
선명하다	Vivid colors/images	선명한 색깔
명확하다	Precise logic/rules	명확한 답변

If you want to express the opposite of 또렷하다, you can use 흐릿하다 (blurry/faint) or 희미하다 (dim/vague). 흐릿하다 is perfect for a blurry photo or a foggy day, while 희미하다 is often used for a fading memory or a distant, dim light. Another alternative is 확실하다 (certain/sure), which is used when you are 100% sure about something. While '또렷하다' describes the quality of the perception, '확실하다' describes your level of confidence in it.

In summary, while there are many ways to say 'clear' in Korean, 또렷하다 occupies a unique niche that emphasizes sharpness, distinctness, and high resolution. Whether you're a photographer looking for the perfect focus, a student trying to remember a lesson, or a speaker trying to be understood, this word is your best tool for describing that perfect state of clarity.

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

The reduplicated form '또렷또렷하다' is often used to describe children who speak very clearly and intelligently for their age.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /t͈o.ɾjʌtʰ.ha.da/

US /t͈o.ɾjʌtʰ.ha.da/

The stress is slightly on the first syllable '또' due to the tense consonant.

Rhymes With

깨끗하다 (ggaekkeuthada) 뿌듯하다 (ppudeuthada) 따뜻하다 (ttatteuthada) 반듯하다 (bandeuthada) 번듯하다 (beondeuthada) 흐릿하다 (heurithada) 야릇하다 (yareuthada) 오붓하다 (obuthada)

Common Errors

Pronouncing the 'ㅅ' as an 's' sound (또렷하다 is not tto-ryeo-sa-da).
Failing to aspirate the 'ㅎ' (it should be tto-ryeo-ta-da).
Softening the initial 'ㄸ' to a 'ㄷ'.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 2/5

Easy to recognize in texts, often paired with common nouns like memory or voice.

Writing 3/5

Requires understanding of the adverbial and modifier forms (-하게, -한).

Speaking 3/5

Pronunciation requires attention to the aspirated 't' sound (또려타다).

Listening 2/5

Distinctive sound makes it easy to pick out in speech.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

맑다 (clear/pure) 보이다 (to be seen) 들리다 (to be heard) 기억 (memory) 말하다 (to speak)

Learn Next

선명하다 (vivid) 분명하다 (clear/certain) 명확하다 (precise) 희미하다 (faint) 흐릿하다 (blurry)

Advanced

획정하다 (to demarcate) 부각되다 (to be highlighted) 규명하다 (to clarify/investigate)

Grammar to Know

Adjective to Adverb (-게)

또렷하다 -> 또렷하게 (clearly)

Adjective to Noun Modifier (-ㄴ/은)

또렷하다 -> 또렷한 (clear...)

Becoming state (-아/어지다)

또렷해지다 (to become clear)

Causative (-게 하다)

또렷하게 하다 (to make something clear)

Honorific (-십니다)

또렷하십니다 (You are clear - formal honorific)

Examples by Level

글씨가 또렷해요.

The handwriting is clear.

또렷하다 + -아요/어요 (polite ending)

목소리가 또렷해요.

The voice is clear.

Subject + 이/가 + Adjective

눈이 또렷해요.

The eyes are clear/distinct.

Describing physical features

사진이 또렷해요.

The photo is clear.

Describing image quality

또렷하게 보여요.

I can see it clearly.

또렷하게 (adverb) + 보이다 (to be seen)

또렷하게 들려요.

I can hear it clearly.

또렷하게 (adverb) + 들리다 (to be heard)

이름을 또렷하게 써요.

Write the name clearly.

Object + 을/를 + Adverb + Verb

하늘이 또렷해요.

The sky is clear (distinct).

Simple descriptive sentence

그 사람은 이목구비가 또렷해요.

That person has distinct facial features.

이목구비 (ears, eyes, mouth, nose) as subject

어릴 때 기억이 또렷해요.

The memory from when I was young is clear.

기억 (memory) + 이 + 또렷하다

발음을 또렷하게 하세요.

Please pronounce clearly.

Adverbial use in an imperative sentence

안경을 쓰니까 사물이 또렷하게 보여요.

Objects look clear now that I'm wearing glasses.

-니까 (because) + Adverb + Verb

어제 꿈이 아주 또렷해요.

Yesterday's dream is very vivid.

꿈 (dream) as subject

두 색깔의 차이가 또렷해요.

The difference between the two colors is distinct.

차이 (difference) + 가 + 또렷하다

칠판 글씨가 또렷하게 안 보여요.

I can't see the writing on the chalkboard clearly.

Negative adverbial construction

방송 소리가 또렷하게 들립니다.

The broadcast sound is heard clearly.

Formal polite ending (-습니다)

자고 일어나니 정신이 또렷해졌어요.

My mind became clear after waking up.

-아/어지다 (to become) + -았/었- (past)

그의 말에는 또렷한 목표가 있었다.

There was a clear goal in his words.

또렷한 (modifier) + 목표 (goal)

비가 온 뒤 산의 윤곽이 또렷해졌다.

After the rain, the outline of the mountain became distinct.

윤곽 (outline) + 이 + 또렷해지다

질문에 또렷하게 대답해 주세요.

Please answer the question clearly.

또렷하게 (adverb) + 대답하다 (to answer)

그때의 감정이 아직도 또렷하다.

The feelings from that time are still clear.

감정 (emotion) as subject

이 약을 먹으면 의식이 또렷해집니다.

Your consciousness will become clear if you take this medicine.

의식 (consciousness) + 이 + 또렷해지다

안개 속에서 또렷한 빛이 보였다.

A distinct light was seen in the fog.

또렷한 (modifier) + 빛 (light)

두 사람의 성격 차이가 또렷하게 나타난다.

The difference in personality between the two people appears clearly.

나타나다 (to appear) + Adverb

이 보고서는 문제점을 또렷하게 지적하고 있다.

This report clearly points out the problems.

지적하다 (to point out) + Adverb

그는 또렷한 주관을 가지고 행동한다.

He acts with clear subjective convictions.

주관 (subjective view/conviction)

화면의 해상도가 높아서 이미지가 또렷하다.

The image is clear because the screen resolution is high.

해상도 (resolution) + -아서/어서 (reason)

그녀는 자신의 입장을 또렷하게 밝혔다.

She stated her position clearly.

입장 (position/stance) + 밝히다 (to state/reveal)

두 이론 사이에는 또렷한 경계가 존재한다.

A clear boundary exists between the two theories.

경계 (boundary) + 존재하다 (to exist)

그의 목소리는 군중 속에서도 또렷하게 들렸다.

His voice was heard clearly even in the crowd.

군중 (crowd) + 속에서도 (even in)

사건의 실체가 또렷하게 드러나기 시작했다.

The true nature of the case began to emerge clearly.

실체 (true nature/substance) + 드러나다 (to be revealed)

그는 또렷한 증거를 제시하지 못했다.

He could not present clear evidence.

증거 (evidence) + 제시하다 (to present)

작가는 인물들의 심리 변화를 또렷하게 묘사했다.

The author clearly depicted the psychological changes of the characters.

심리 변화 (psychological change) + 묘사하다 (to depict)

시대적 배경이 또렷하게 반영된 작품이다.

It is a work in which the historical background is clearly reflected.

시대적 배경 (historical background) + 반영되다 (to be reflected)

그의 논리는 빈틈이 없고 또렷하다.

His logic is flawless and clear.

빈틈이 없다 (to be flawless/no gaps)

전통과 현대의 조화가 또렷한 인상을 남긴다.

The harmony of tradition and modernity leaves a clear impression.

조화 (harmony) + 인상 (impression)

그는 또렷한 목적의식을 가지고 연구에 매진했다.

He devoted himself to research with a clear sense of purpose.

목적의식 (sense of purpose) + 매진하다 (to devote oneself)

문화적 정체성이 또렷하게 드러나는 축제였다.

It was a festival where cultural identity was clearly revealed.

정체성 (identity) + 드러나다

두 사건의 상관관계가 또렷하게 입증되었다.

The correlation between the two events was clearly proven.

상관관계 (correlation) + 입증되다 (to be proven)

그의 눈빛에는 또렷한 살기가 느껴졌다.

A distinct murderous intent was felt in his eyes.

살기 (murderous intent) + 느껴지다 (to be felt)

현상학적 관점에서 의식의 지향성은 또렷하게 규명되어야 한다.

From a phenomenological perspective, the intentionality of consciousness must be clearly clarified.

현상학적 (phenomenological) + 규명되다 (to be clarified)

이 철학자는 존재와 무의 경계를 또렷하게 획정했다.

This philosopher clearly demarcated the boundary between being and nothingness.

획정하다 (to demarcate/set a boundary)

정책의 실효성이 또렷하게 검증되지 않은 상태이다.

The effectiveness of the policy has not been clearly verified.

실효성 (effectiveness) + 검증되다 (to be verified)

그의 문체는 간결하면서도 주제 의식이 또렷하다.

His writing style is concise yet has a clear thematic consciousness.

문체 (writing style) + 주제 의식 (thematic consciousness)

미시적 분석을 통해 인과관계가 또렷하게 도출되었다.

Through microscopic analysis, the causal relationship was clearly derived.

미시적 (microscopic/detailed) + 도출되다 (to be derived)

언어적 표현의 모호함을 제거하고 또렷한 의미를 전달해야 한다.

Ambiguity in linguistic expression must be removed and clear meaning conveyed.

모호함 (ambiguity) + 제거하다 (to remove)

역사적 사료를 통해 그날의 진실이 또렷하게 재구성되었다.

The truth of that day was clearly reconstructed through historical records.

사료 (historical records) + 재구성되다 (to be reconstructed)

예술적 독창성이 또렷하게 부각된 전시회였다.

It was an exhibition where artistic originality was clearly highlighted.

독창성 (originality) + 부각되다 (to be highlighted)

Common Collocations

발음이 또렷하다

기억이 또렷하다

정신이 또렷하다

이목구비가 또렷하다

글씨가 또렷하다

차이가 또렷하다

윤곽이 또렷하다

목표가 또렷하다

목소리가 또렷하다

경계가 또렷하다

Common Phrases

또렷하게 말하다

— To speak clearly so everyone understands.

발표할 때는 또렷하게 말하는 것이 중요해요.

또렷하게 보이다

— To be seen clearly without blurriness.

안경을 닦으니 세상이 또렷하게 보여요.

또렷하게 기억나다

— To remember something vividly.

첫 데이트 장면이 또렷하게 기억나요.

또렷하게 적다

— To write clearly/legibly.

주소를 또렷하게 적어 주세요.

또렷한 인상

— A clear or strong impression.

그는 첫만남에서 또렷한 인상을 남겼다.

또렷한 차이점

— A clear point of difference.

이 두 그림에는 또렷한 차이점이 있어요.

또렷한 의식

— Clear consciousness/alertness.

환자는 이제 또렷한 의식을 되찾았습니다.

또렷한 윤곽

— A sharp outline.

안개 속에서 건물의 또렷한 윤곽이 나타났다.

또렷한 대조

— A sharp contrast.

밝은 빛과 어두운 그림자가 또렷한 대조를 이룬다.

또렷한 증거

— Clear/distinct evidence.

그가 범인이라는 또렷한 증거는 없다.

Often Confused With

또렷하다 vs 투명하다

Used for physical transparency like glass, not for distinctness of shape.

또렷하다 vs 깨끗하다

Means clean or pure, whereas 또렷하다 means sharp and distinct.

또렷하다 vs 단정하다

Means neat or tidy in appearance, not necessarily sharp or clear.

Idioms & Expressions

"눈앞에 또렷하다"

— To be able to see something vividly in one's mind as if it's right in front of them.

고향 풍경이 눈앞에 또렷하다.

Literary

"정신을 또렷이 차리다"

— To focus one's mind or stay alert, especially in a difficult situation.

위급한 상황일수록 정신을 또렷이 차려야 한다.

Common

"귀에 또렷이 박히다"

— To hear something so clearly that it stays in one's mind.

어머니의 잔소리가 귀에 또렷이 박혔다.

Informal

"머릿속에 또렷하다"

— To have a very clear thought or plan in one's head.

해결책이 머릿속에 또렷하게 떠올랐다.

Common

"선이 또렷하다"

— To have a very clear and principled way of acting or thinking.

그는 공과 사의 선이 또렷한 사람이다.

Neutral

"자국이 또렷하다"

— For a mark or trace to be very visible.

모래 위에 발자국이 또렷하다.

Neutral

"색이 또렷하다"

— To have a very clear personality or characteristic.

이 감독은 자신만의 색이 또렷하다.

Metaphorical

"날이 또렷하다"

— For a blade or edge to be very sharp and well-defined.

칼날이 또렷하게 서 있다.

Technical

"앞날이 또렷하다"

— To have a very clear vision or prospect for the future.

그의 앞날은 또렷한 목표 덕분에 밝다.

Positive

"목소리가 또렷또렷하다"

— A reduplicated form emphasizing the extreme clarity of each syllable.

아이의 목소리가 또렷또렷하게 들렸다.

Emphatic

Easily Confused

또렷하다 vs 선명하다

Both mean 'clear'.

선명하다 is about vivid colors and high image quality; 또렷하다 is about sharp edges and distinctness.

TV 화면이 선명하다 vs. 글씨가 또렷하다.

또렷하다 vs 분명하다

Both mean 'clear'.

분명하다 is usually about logical certainty; 또렷하다 is about sensory perception.

범인이 분명하다 vs. 목소리가 또렷하다.

또렷하다 vs 뚜렷하다

Very similar in sound and meaning.

뚜렷하다 is often used for phenomena, effects, or trends, while 또렷하다 is more common for sensory details.

효과가 뚜렷하다 vs. 발음이 또렷하다.

또렷하다 vs 명확하다

Both mean 'clear'.

명확하다 is more formal and used for precision in rules or facts.

기준이 명확하다 vs. 기억이 또렷하다.

또렷하다 vs 정확하다

Both imply a lack of error.

정확하다 means 'accurate' or 'correct'; 또렷하다 means 'distinct' or 'sharp'.

시계가 정확하다 vs. 사진이 또렷하다.

Sentence Patterns

N이/가 또렷해요.

글씨가 또렷해요.

N을/를 또렷하게 V.

이름을 또렷하게 써요.

N이/가 또렷해졌어요.

정신이 또렷해졌어요.

N에는 또렷한 N이/가 있다.

그의 말에는 또렷한 목표가 있다.

N을/를 또렷하게 묘사하다.

심리를 또렷하게 묘사했다.

N의 경계를 또렷하게 획정하다.

존재의 경계를 또렷하게 획정했다.

또렷하게 안 V.

또렷하게 안 들려요.

또렷한 N을/를 남기다.

또렷한 인상을 남기다.

Word Family

Nouns

또렷함 (clarity/distinctness)

Verbs

또렷해지다 (to become clear/distinct)

Adjectives

또렷하다 (clear/distinct)

선명하다

분명하다

뚜렷하다

흐릿하다

희미하다

How to Use It

frequency

Common in both spoken and written Korean.

Common Mistakes

Using 또렷하다 for 'clean' rooms. → 깨끗하다
또렷하다 is about visual sharpness, not the absence of dirt.
Pronouncing it as 'tto-ryeo-sa-da'. → tto-ryeo-ta-da
The 'ㅅ' and 'ㅎ' combine to form a 'ㅌ' sound.
Using it for logical certainty like 'It's clear he's right'. → 분명하다
또렷하다 is usually for sensory clarity, though it overlaps slightly in 'mental' clarity.
Using it to describe a sunny day. → 맑다
또렷하다 describes the quality of the view, not the weather itself.
Confusing it with '투명하다' for glass. → 투명하다
Glass is transparent (투명), but the objects seen through it are distinct (또렷).

Tips

Describing People

Use '이목구비가 또렷하다' to compliment someone's sharp facial features. It's a common way to say someone looks handsome or beautiful.

The 'T' Sound

Remember the aspiration! It's not 'tto-ryeot-ha-da', it's 'tto-ryeo-ta-da'. The 'h' sound disappears into the 't'.

Memory Vividness

Whenever you recall a vivid childhood memory, think '기억이 또렷하다'. This is the most common abstract use of the word.

Photography

When taking a photo, if the focus is perfect, the image is '또렷하다'. If it's blurry, it's '흐릿하다'.

Adverbial Choice

Use '또렷하게' when you want to emphasize the action of making something clear, like '또렷하게 말하다'.

Vs. 선명하다

If you are talking about a 4K TV, you can use both, but '선명하다' highlights the colors, while '또렷하다' highlights the detail.

Alertness

Use '정신이 또렷하다' to describe being fully awake and alert after being tired or sick.

Legibility

Tell someone '또렷하게 적어 주세요' if their handwriting is hard to read. It's more polite than saying it's messy.

Auditory Clarity

If you are on a phone call with bad reception, you can say '목소리가 또렷하게 안 들려요'.

Word Family

Learn '또렷해지다' (to become clear) alongside '또렷하다' to describe things changing state, like the fog clearing.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of 'Tto-ryeot' as 'Total Resolution'. When something is in 'Total Resolution', it is 또렷하다 (clear and distinct).

Visual Association

Imagine a camera lens clicking into focus. The moment the blurry image becomes sharp, that is '또렷하다'.

Word Web

Vision Sound Memory Sharp Distinct Alert Focus High-Definition

Challenge

Try to find three things in your room right now that are '또렷하다' and three things that are '흐릿하다' and say them out loud in Korean.

Word Origin

Native Korean word. It is formed from the root '또렷', which is a mimetic or symbolic word describing sharpness or distinctness, combined with the suffix '-하다' which turns it into an adjective.

Original meaning: To be sharp or distinct in appearance or sound.

Koreanic

Cultural Context

None. It is a neutral, positive adjective.

While English uses 'clear' for almost everything, Korean splits 'clear' into several words. '또렷하다' is specifically for that 'HD' or 'sharp' feeling.

Used in many K-Drama scripts when a character regains consciousness in a hospital. Commonly used in TV news to describe weather visibility. Frequently used in Korean literature to describe vivid memories of the past.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Eye Clinic

글자가 또렷하게 보여요.
왼쪽 눈이 덜 또렷해요.
안경 도수가 또렷하지 않아요.
검사판이 또렷하게 안 보여요.

Classroom

또렷하게 발음해 보세요.
칠판 글씨가 또렷합니까?
기억이 또렷하게 남아 있나요?
답을 또렷하게 적으세요.

News/Media

또렷한 목소리로 전달합니다.
화면이 또렷하게 나옵니다.
발음이 아주 또렷하시네요.
현장 소리가 또렷하지 않습니다.

Courtroom/Police

기억이 또렷하십니까?
범인의 얼굴이 또렷했나요?
증거가 또렷하게 드러났습니다.
진술을 또렷하게 하세요.

Nature/Weather

산맥이 또렷하게 보여요.
수평선이 아주 또렷하네요.
별빛이 또렷한 밤입니다.
공기가 맑아 시야가 또렷해요.

Conversation Starters

"어릴 때 가장 또렷하게 기억나는 일이 뭐예요?"

"안경을 새로 맞췄는데, 세상이 너무 또렷하게 보여요!"

"그 가수 목소리는 가사가 정말 또렷하게 들리지 않나요?"

"이 사진이랑 저 사진 중에 어떤 게 더 또렷해 보여요?"

"꿈을 꾸면 내용이 또렷하게 기억나는 편인가요?"

Journal Prompts

오늘 하루 중 가장 또렷하게 기억에 남는 순간을 적어보세요.

내가 미래에 이루고 싶은 또렷한 목표 세 가지를 써보세요.

어떤 사람의 첫인상이 가장 또렷했는지, 그 이유와 함께 적어보세요.

내가 좋아하는 풍경이 얼마나 또렷하게 머릿속에 그려지는지 묘사해 보세요.

최근에 본 영화 중 메시지가 가장 또렷했던 영화는 무엇인가요?

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

No, you should use '깨끗하다' (clean) or '투명하다' (transparent). '또렷하다' is for things with sharp edges or distinct sounds.

They are very similar, but '또렷하다' is more commonly used for small details like handwriting, pronunciation, or facial features. '뚜렷하다' is used for larger things like differences, effects, or traces.

Yes, you can say someone has a '또렷한 주관' (clear subjective view) or a '또렷한 성격' (distinct personality) if they are very firm and clear in their ways.

The 'ㅅ' is pronounced as a 't' sound that merges with 'ㅎ' to become 'ㅌ'. So it sounds like [또려타다].

Yes, if you are focusing on how distinct the horizon or the stars are. If you just mean the sky is blue and sunny, '맑다' is better.

Mostly positive. It implies clarity, intelligence, and high quality. However, it can be negative if used like '살기가 또렷하다' (clear murderous intent).

No. For feelings, use '상쾌하다' (refreshed) or '기분이 좋다'. '또렷하다' is for perception and memory.

Both '또렷이' and '또렷하게' are used. '또렷하게' is more common in daily speech.

You can describe the '날' (edge) of the knife as '또렷하다' to mean it is well-defined, but '날카롭다' (sharp) is more common for cutting ability.

Yes, to describe clear goals, distinct differences between products, or clear communication.