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마음을 전하다

B1 phrase #3,500 most common 9 min read

마음을 전하다

ma-eumeul jeonhada Top 3,500

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips 마음을 전하다 in 30 Seconds

Explanation 마음을 전하다 in your Level:

At the A1 level, you can think of '마음을 전하다' as a more polite and warm way to say 'I like you' or 'Thank you'. Since '마음' means heart and '전하다' means to give or pass, it literally means 'to give your heart'. Even if you don't know complex grammar, you can use it in simple sentences like '마음을 전해요' (I convey my heart). Beginners often use it when they give a small gift or a card to a friend. It helps you sound very kind and thoughtful in Korean from the very start of your learning journey. Think of it as the step beyond just saying words—it's about showing you care.

For A2 learners, '마음을 전하다' becomes a useful tool for connecting sentences. You can use it with the '-고 싶어요' (I want to) pattern: '제 마음을 전하고 싶어요' (I want to convey my feelings). At this stage, you should start noticing how it's used with objects like '편지' (letter) or '선물' (gift) using the particle '-로' (by/with). For example, '선물로 마음을 전했어요' (I conveyed my feelings with a gift). This level is about moving from simple statements to explaining *how* you are expressing yourself. It’s a great phrase to use in role-plays about birthdays or holidays.

At the B1 level, you should understand the nuance that '마음을 전하다' carries a sense of sincerity and sometimes hesitation. It's not just about the act of speaking; it's about the difficulty of making one's true feelings known. You'll encounter this phrase in more complex structures, like '어떻게 마음을 전할지 고민이에요' (I'm worried about how to convey my feelings). You should also be able to distinguish it from '말하다' (to speak). While '말하다' is neutral, '마음을 전하다' implies that the content is emotionally significant. This is a key phrase for intermediate learners to express deeper interpersonal relationships.

B2 learners should be comfortable using '마음을 전하다' in various social registers. You might use the honorific '마음을 전해 드립니다' in a formal letter or speech. You should also recognize the passive form, '마음이 전해지다' (to have one's feelings be conveyed/felt by others), which is often used when the recipient naturally understands the speaker's sincerity without many words. At this level, you can use the phrase to talk about abstract concepts, like how a musician 'conveys their heart' through a performance. It becomes a tool for discussing art, culture, and complex human empathy.

As a C1 learner, you can appreciate the literary and poetic weight of '마음을 전하다'. It often appears in literature to describe a profound moment of connection between characters. You should be able to use it in sophisticated arguments about communication, perhaps discussing how digital messages might fail to 'convey the heart' as effectively as handwritten ones. You'll also see it in news reports about philanthropy or public apologies, where the 'heart' being conveyed is a symbol of social responsibility or collective sympathy. Your usage should reflect an understanding of '정' (affection) and other deep-seated Korean cultural values.

At the C2 level, '마음을 전하다' is a foundational concept for discussing the philosophy of language and emotion in Korea. You can analyze how this phrase operates within the framework of 'nunchi' (social sensing) and 'chemyeon' (saving face). You might explore how '마음을 전하다' acts as a linguistic ritual that maintains social harmony. At this level, you are not just using the phrase; you are understanding its role in the Korean psyche—how the delivery of the 'maeum' is considered a sacred act of honesty that transcends the limitations of vocabulary. You can use it fluently in any context, from high-level academic debates to the most intimate personal reflections.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

마음을 전하다 in 30 Seconds

마음을 전하다 is a heartfelt Korean expression used to describe the act of conveying sincere emotions or gratitude to someone else.
It combines '마음' (heart/mind) and '전하다' (to deliver), suggesting that emotions are a precious cargo being shared between individuals.
This phrase is commonly used in romantic confessions, thank-you notes, and formal expressions of sympathy or appreciation in professional settings.
It is more emotionally weighted than simple verbs like '말하다' (to speak), focusing on the sincerity and depth of the connection.

The phrase 마음을 전하다 is a beautiful and essential expression in the Korean language that encapsulates the act of conveying one's sincere feelings, thoughts, or emotions to another person. Unlike the simple verb '말하다' (to speak) or '이야기하다' (to talk), which focus on the act of verbal communication, '마음을 전하다' implies a deeper level of sincerity and intentionality. It suggests that what is being shared is not just information, but a piece of one's inner self. This expression is frequently used in contexts involving gratitude, love, apologies, or sympathy, where the 'heart' (마음) is considered the source of the message.

The Concept of Maeum (마음): In Korean culture, '마음' refers to the heart, mind, and soul combined. When you '전하다' (convey/deliver) this, you are bridging an emotional gap between yourself and the recipient. It is often used when the speaker feels that words alone might not be enough to capture the weight of their feelings.

부끄러워서 직접 말하지 못하고 편지로 마음을 전했어요.

Translation: I was too shy to say it directly, so I conveyed my feelings through a letter.

The verb '전하다' originally means to pass something along, to transmit, or to deliver. When paired with '마음', it transforms into a poetic way of describing an emotional exchange. This is why you will see this phrase used in commercial slogans for gift-giving, lyrics of romantic ballads, and formal speeches of appreciation. It carries a nuance of 'delivery'—as if the emotion is a precious parcel that must reach the other person safely.

Common Contexts: You will hear this most often during '고백' (confessions of love), '사과' (apologies), and '감사' (expressions of thanks). It is also used when giving a small gift to someone to show you care, even without a specific occasion.

작은 선물이지만 제 마음을 전하고 싶어서 준비했습니다.

In a professional setting, '마음을 전하다' can be used to express condolences or deep gratitude to a business partner or mentor. It softens the tone and adds a human element to otherwise rigid formal communication. For instance, when a project ends, a leader might use this phrase to thank their team for their hard work and dedication, signaling that they truly appreciate the effort from the bottom of their heart.

Cultural Nuance: Korean society values 'Cheong' (정), a deep sense of affection and attachment. '마음을 전하다' is the linguistic bridge that facilitates the flow of 'Cheong' between individuals. It is less about the logic of the message and more about the resonance of the emotion.

Using 마음을 전하다 correctly involves understanding its grammatical flexibility. It can be used as a simple statement, a reason for an action, or a desired outcome. Because it is a phrase consisting of a noun and a verb, you can modify it with various particles and endings to fit the level of formality required by the situation.

With Indirect Objects: When you want to specify who you are conveying your feelings to, use the particles -에게 (formal/written) or -한테 (informal/spoken). For example: '부모님께 제 마음을 전하고 싶어요' (I want to convey my feelings to my parents).

그녀는 꽃다발을 통해 자신의 마음을 전하기로 했습니다.

The phrase is often used with the instrumental particle -(으)로 or -을/를 통해 to indicate the medium of the message. Whether it is a letter, a gift, or a look in one's eyes, the medium becomes the vessel for the 'maeum'. This adds a layer of sophistication to your Korean, showing that you understand how emotions are facilitated through actions and objects.

Tense and Aspect: In the past tense, '마음을 전했다' implies the action was completed. In the present progressive, '마음을 전하고 있다' suggests an ongoing effort to make one's feelings known. The future or intentional forms like '마음을 전할 거예요' or '마음을 전하고 싶어요' are very common in planning confessions or thank-you notes.

어떻게 제 마음을 전해야 할지 모르겠어요.

When you are unsure of how to express yourself, the pattern -아/어/여야 할지 모르겠다 is frequently paired with this phrase. It expresses a sense of hesitation and the weight of the emotion, which is a very natural way for Koreans to talk about their feelings. It shows humility and sincerity.

Formal Usage: In very formal settings, like a wedding speech or a corporate retirement party, you might use the honorific version: '마음을 전해 드립니다'. This shows high respect for the recipient.

팬들의 사랑에 보답하기 위해 노래로 마음을 전합니다.

If you are a fan of K-Dramas or K-Pop, you have undoubtedly encountered 마음을 전하다. It is a staple of romantic storylines and emotional climaxes. In dramas, the male or female lead often struggles for episodes with how to 'convey their heart' to the person they love. This phrase builds tension and emotional stakes because it represents the moment of vulnerability when a character decides to be honest about their feelings.

In K-Pop Lyrics: Songwriters love this phrase because it fits perfectly into the themes of unrequited love or deep appreciation for fans. You'll find it in ballad titles and key choruses. It conveys a sense of reaching out across a distance, which resonates deeply with listeners.

노래 가사: "부족한 제 마음을 전할 수만 있다면..."

Translation: If only I could convey my inadequate feelings...

Outside of entertainment, you will hear this in daily life during holidays like Chuseok (Lunar Thanksgiving) or Seollal (Lunar New Year). People often say they are 'conveying their heart' when they send gifts to relatives or business associates. Here, the phrase serves to emphasize that the gift isn't just a material object, but a symbol of their respect and well-wishes.

News and Media: When public figures donate money to charity or express sympathy after a disaster, the news reports often use '마음을 전했다'. It implies that their contribution is a sincere gesture of solidarity with the victims.

유명 연예인이 수해 복구를 위해 따뜻한 마음을 전했습니다.

Finally, in more intimate settings, friends might use it when one person has been going through a hard time. If a friend brings over a meal or a small card, they might say, '그냥 내 마음을 좀 전하고 싶었어' (I just wanted to convey my heart/feelings a bit). This is a very warm and supportive way to show you are there for someone without being overly dramatic.

Social Media: On platforms like Instagram, captions often include #마음을전하다 when people post photos of handwritten letters or meaningful gifts. It has become a shorthand for 'this moment is sincere and personal'.

While 마음을 전하다 is a versatile phrase, learners often make a few key mistakes, usually stemming from direct translation or confusing it with similar-looking words. Understanding these pitfalls will help you sound more like a native speaker and avoid awkward social interactions.

Confusing '전하다' with '전달하다': '전달하다' (jeon-dal-ha-da) also means to deliver or convey, but it is much more technical and objective. You '전달' a package, a document, or a piece of data. Using '마음을 전달하다' sounds cold, as if you are shipping your emotions via FedEx. Always stick to '전하다' for the heart.

❌ 제 마음을 전달하고 싶어요. (Too mechanical)
✅ 제 마음을 전하고 싶어요. (Natural and sincere)

Another common mistake is using the wrong particles. Learners sometimes use the subject particle '이/가' when they mean the object particle '을/를'. '마음이 전하다' is grammatically incorrect because '전하다' needs an object. If you want to say the feeling was conveyed naturally, you must use the passive verb '전해지다' (to be conveyed).

Overusing '말하다': Many learners default to '제 감정을 말했어요' (I said my emotions). While not wrong, it lacks the depth of '마음을 전했어요'. In Korean, expressing feelings is seen as an action that involves more than just the mouth; it involves the 'delivery' of the heart.

진심을 다해 마음을 전하는 것이 중요합니다.

Lastly, be careful with the context of '마음'. In English, we might say 'I changed my mind,' but in Korean, that is '마음을 바꾸다'. You wouldn't say '마음을 전하다' if you are just telling someone your new decision. '마음을 전하다' is almost always reserved for emotional or sincere disclosures, not just opinions or choices.

Register Errors: Using this phrase in a very casual, joking context can sometimes come off as overly sentimental or 'cheesy' (오글거리다). Use it when you genuinely want to show sincerity.

To broaden your vocabulary, it is helpful to look at words that share a semantic field with 마음을 전하다. Depending on the specific emotion or the level of intensity, you might choose a different expression to more accurately reflect your intent.

고백하다 (To Confess): This is more specific than '마음을 전하다'. While you can convey a heart of gratitude, '고백하다' is almost exclusively used for romantic confessions or admitting a secret/wrongdoing. It carries a sense of 'revealing' something hidden.

그는 용기를 내어 그녀에게 사랑을 고백했습니다.

Another alternative is 표현하다 (to express). This is a more general term that can be used for expressing thoughts, opinions, or artistic visions. It is less 'heavy' than '마음을 전하다'. You might '표현하다' your style through clothes, but you '전하다' your heart through a sincere talk.

진심을 보이다 (To Show Sincerity): This phrase focuses on the 'truth' (진심) of the heart. It is often used when someone has been misunderstood and wants to prove that their intentions are pure. It is more about 'showing' through actions than 'conveying' through words.

속마음을 털어놓다 (To Pour Out One's Inner Heart): This is used when you have been keeping something inside for a long time and finally decide to tell someone everything. It implies a sense of relief and deep intimacy. '마음을 전하다' is more controlled and purposeful.

친구와 밤새 술을 마시며 속마음을 털어놓았습니다.

Lastly, 알리다 (to inform/let someone know) can be used, but it is very neutral. You might '알리다' a piece of news. Using it for emotions makes the emotion feel like a cold fact. Therefore, '마음을 전하다' remains the most preferred phrase for warm, human connection.

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

In ancient Korean texts, '마음' was often located in the stomach or liver rather than the heart, reflecting a different anatomical understanding of where emotions reside.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /ma.ɯm.ɯl t͡ɕʌn.ɦa.da/

US /ma.um.ul dʒʌn.ha.da/

In Korean, stress is generally even across syllables, but a slight emphasis may be placed on 'maeum' to highlight the 'heart'.

Rhymes With

변하다 (byeonhada - to change) 편하다 (pyeonhada - to be comfortable) 면하다 (myeonhada - to avoid) 선하다 (seonhada - to be good/vivid) 권하다 (gwonhada - to recommend) 흔하다 (heunhada - to be common) 진하다 (jinhada - to be thick/dark) 친하다 (chinhada - to be close)

Common Errors

Pronouncing 'maeum' as 'ma-oom' (it's a diphthong-like sound).
Skipping the 'l' sound in the particle 'eul'.
Pronouncing 'jeon' as 'joo-on'.
Forgetting the aspiration in 'ha' of 'hada'.
Pausing too long between 'maeum-eul' and 'jeonhada'.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 2/5

The words are basic, but the nuance requires some intermediate cultural knowledge.

Writing 3/5

Choosing the right medium (particle) and honorific level is key.

Speaking 3/5

Requires emotional intonation to sound sincere.

Listening 2/5

Very common in media; easy to recognize once learned.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

마음 전하다 말하다 선물 편지

Learn Next

진심 고백하다 표현하다 이심전심 전달하다

Advanced

심금을 울리다 교감하다 정(情) 눈치

Grammar to Know

Particle -(으)로 (Means/Instrument)

선물로 마음을 전해요.

Particle -에게/한테/께 (Recipient)

친구에게 마음을 전했어요.

Passive verb -아/어지다

그의 진심이 나에게 전해졌다.

Intentional -고 싶다

마음을 전하고 싶어요.

Nominalization -는 것

마음을 전하는 것은 어렵습니다.

Examples by Level

선물로 마음을 전해요.

I convey my heart with a gift.

Using -로 to indicate the means (with a gift).

편지에 마음을 전했어요.

I conveyed my feelings in a letter.

Past tense -었어요.

제 마음을 전하고 싶어요.

I want to convey my feelings.

-고 싶어요 expresses desire.

엄마에게 마음을 전해요.

I convey my heart to my mom.

-에게 indicates the recipient.

노래로 마음을 전해요.

I convey my feelings through a song.

Noun + 로 (through/by).

친구한테 마음을 전했어요.

I conveyed my feelings to my friend.

-한테 is the informal version of -에게.

꽃으로 마음을 전하세요.

Please convey your feelings with flowers.

-으세요 is a polite command/suggestion.

마음을 전하는 것은 좋아요.

Conveying one's heart is good.

-는 것 turns the verb into a noun phrase.

직접 만나서 마음을 전하고 싶었지만 못 했어요.

I wanted to meet in person and convey my feelings, but I couldn't.

-고 싶었지만 (wanted to, but...).

감사한 마음을 전하기 위해 선물을 샀어요.

I bought a gift to convey my grateful heart.

-기 위해 (in order to).

부끄러워서 마음을 전하기가 힘들어요.

It's hard to convey my feelings because I'm shy.

-기(가) 힘들다 (it is hard to do...).

따뜻한 차 한 잔으로 마음을 전해보세요.

Try conveying your feelings with a warm cup of tea.

-어 보다 (to try doing something).

그는 편지로 진심 어린 마음을 전했습니다.

He conveyed his sincere heart through a letter.

진심 어린 (sincere) modifies 마음.

어떻게 마음을 전하면 좋을까요?

How should I convey my feelings (to make it good)?

-으면 좋을까요 (asking for advice).

우리는 서로의 마음을 전하며 친해졌어요.

We became close while conveying our feelings to each other.

-(으)며 (while/and).

작은 카드에 제 마음을 전할게요.

I will convey my feelings on a small card.

-(으)ㄹ게요 (future promise).

말보다 행동으로 마음을 전하는 것이 더 중요할 때가 있습니다.

There are times when conveying your heart through actions is more important than words.

-보다 (than) comparing words and actions.

오해를 풀기 위해 제 진심 어린 마음을 전하기로 결심했어요.

I decided to convey my sincere heart to clear up the misunderstanding.

-하기로 결심하다 (decide to do).

그녀의 눈빛에서 나를 향한 따뜻한 마음을 전해 받을 수 있었어요.

I could receive the warm feelings toward me from her eyes.

전해 받다 (to receive something conveyed).

부모님께 평소에 하지 못했던 마음을 전하고 싶어서 편지를 썼습니다.

I wrote a letter because I wanted to convey the feelings I couldn't usually express to my parents.

하지 못했던 (that I couldn't do) modifying 마음.

용기가 없어서 아직 제 마음을 전하지 못하고 있어요.

I don't have the courage, so I haven't been able to convey my feelings yet.

-지 못하고 있다 (ongoing inability).

그 가수는 노래를 통해 전 세계 팬들에게 위로의 마음을 전합니다.

The singer conveys feelings of comfort to fans worldwide through songs.

-(을)를 통해 (through/via).

작은 정성이지만 제 마음을 전할 수 있어서 기쁩니다.

It's just a small token of sincerity, but I'm happy I can convey my heart.

-(으)ㄹ 수 있어서 (because I can...).

솔직하게 마음을 전하면 상대방도 이해해 줄 거예요.

If you convey your heart honestly, the other person will understand you too.

-아/어 줄 거예요 (will do for you).

예술가는 자신의 작품을 통해 대중에게 메시지와 마음을 전합니다.

Artists convey messages and their hearts to the public through their works.

대중 (the public) as the recipient.

말재주가 없어도 진심만 있다면 충분히 마음을 전할 수 있습니다.

Even if you aren't good with words, if you only have sincerity, you can sufficiently convey your heart.

-아/어도 (even if).

그의 서툰 사과 속에서도 진심 어린 마음이 전해져 왔습니다.

Even in his clumsy apology, his sincere heart was conveyed (to me).

전해져 오다 (to be conveyed toward someone).

기부 활동을 통해 어려운 이웃들에게 따뜻한 마음을 전하고 있습니다.

They are conveying warm hearts to neighbors in need through donation activities.

어려운 이웃 (neighbors in difficulty).

사랑하는 사람에게 마음을 전하는 것만큼 긴장되는 일은 없죠.

There is nothing as nerve-wracking as conveying your heart to someone you love.

-만큼 (as much as).

직장 상사에게 감사의 마음을 전할 때는 예의를 갖추는 것이 중요합니다.

When conveying gratitude to a boss, it is important to be polite.

-(으)ㄹ 때 (when).

편지 한 장으로도 충분히 깊은 마음을 전할 수 있다는 것을 깨달았어요.

I realized that even a single letter can sufficiently convey a deep heart.

-는다는 것 (the fact that...).

서로의 진심이 전해지는 순간, 모든 갈등이 눈 녹듯 사라졌습니다.

The moment our sincere hearts were conveyed to each other, all conflicts vanished like melting snow.

눈 녹듯 (like melting snow - idiom).

문학은 시대를 초월하여 작가의 고뇌와 마음을 독자에게 전하는 매개체입니다.

Literature is a medium that transcends eras to convey the author's anguish and heart to the reader.

시대를 초월하여 (transcending the era).

침묵 속에서도 이심전심으로 서로의 마음을 전할 수 있는 사이가 되었습니다.

We have become a couple/friends who can convey our hearts through telepathy (heart-to-heart) even in silence.

이심전심 (telepathy/heart-to-heart communication - idiom).

그의 연설은 화려한 수식어는 없었지만, 청중의 가슴에 깊은 마음을 전했습니다.

His speech lacked fancy modifiers, but it conveyed a deep heart to the listeners' chests.

화려한 수식어 (fancy modifiers/rhetoric).

비대면 시대일수록 직접 얼굴을 마주하고 마음을 전하는 가치가 더욱 빛납니다.

In the untact (non-face-to-face) era, the value of meeting in person and conveying one's heart shines even more.

-(으)ㄹ수록 (the more... the more...).

부모님께 효도하며 감사의 마음을 전하는 것은 인간의 도리입니다.

Being filial and conveying a heart of gratitude to parents is a human duty.

인간의 도리 (human duty/morality).

그림 한 점에 담긴 화가의 고독한 마음이 관객들에게 고스란히 전해졌습니다.

The painter's lonely heart contained in a single painting was conveyed intact to the audience.

고스란히 (intact/just as it is).

자신의 부족함을 인정하고 진솔하게 마음을 전할 때 비로소 소통이 시작됩니다.

Communication truly begins only when one admits their shortcomings and conveys their heart sincerely.

비로소 (only then/for the first time).

전통 음악의 선율은 우리 민족의 한과 마음을 후대에 전하는 통로입니다.

The melody of traditional music is a pathway that conveys our nation's sorrow (Han) and heart to future generations.

후대 (future generations).

언어라는 불완전한 도구를 빌려 온전한 마음을 전하려는 시도는 숭고하기까지 합니다.

The attempt to convey a whole heart using the imperfect tool of language is even sublime.

-기까지 하다 (even to the point of...).

진정한 공감이란 타인의 고통에 귀 기울이며 함께 아파하는 마음을 전하는 과정입니다.

True empathy is the process of listening to others' pain and conveying a heart that hurts together.

-이란 (defining a concept).

역사적 기록들은 선조들이 겪었던 수많은 시련 속에서도 잃지 않았던 굳건한 마음을 전해줍니다.

Historical records convey the steadfast heart that our ancestors did not lose despite numerous trials.

굳건한 (steadfast/firm).

종교적 의례는 인간이 신에게 경외심과 찬양의 마음을 전하는 상징적 행위입니다.

Religious rituals are symbolic acts through which humans convey hearts of awe and praise to the divine.

경외심 (awe/reverence).

문화적 다양성을 존중하며 서로의 진심 어린 마음을 전할 때 인류는 비로소 화합할 수 있습니다.

Humanity can only harmonize when we respect cultural diversity and convey our sincere hearts to one another.

비로소 (only then).

철학적 사유의 끝에서 우리는 타자에게 어떻게 나의 마음을 온전히 전할 것인가라는 난제에 부딪힙니다.

At the end of philosophical thought, we encounter the conundrum of how to fully convey our heart to the 'Other'.

난제에 부딪히다 (to encounter a difficult problem).

디지털 기술의 발달이 소통의 양은 늘렸을지언정, 마음을 전하는 질적 깊이까지 담보하지는 못합니다.

Although the development of digital technology may have increased the quantity of communication, it cannot guarantee the qualitative depth of conveying the heart.

-을지언정 (even though/notwithstanding).

생의 마지막 순간에 사랑하는 이들에게 남기는 유언은 가장 절절한 마음을 전하는 마지막 수단입니다.

A will left for loved ones at the last moment of life is the final means of conveying the most desperate and heartfelt emotions.

절절한 (desperate/deeply felt).

Common Collocations

진심 어린 마음을 전하다

편지로 마음을 전하다

선물로 마음을 전하다

감사의 마음을 전하다

사랑의 마음을 전하다

위로의 마음을 전하다

솔직하게 마음을 전하다

간절한 마음을 전하다

축하의 마음을 전하다

따뜻한 마음을 전하다

Common Phrases

마음만 전할게요

— I'll just convey my heart (meaning 'I can't accept the gift, but I appreciate the thought').

선물은 부담스러우니 마음만 전할게요.

어떻게 마음을 전할까?

— How should I convey my feelings? Used when pondering a confession or thank-you.

좋아하는 사람에게 어떻게 마음을 전할까 고민 중이야.

마음을 전할 길이 없다

— There is no way to convey my feelings. Used in tragic or frustrating situations.

이미 떠난 사람에게 제 마음을 전할 길이 없네요.

마음을 다해 전하다

— To convey with all one's heart. Emphasizes maximum sincerity.

마음을 다해 전하면 언젠가는 알아줄 거야.

마음이 전해지다

— For one's heart to be conveyed (passive). The recipient felt the sincerity.

너의 진심 어린 마음이 나에게도 전해졌어.

마음을 전하는 선물

— A gift that conveys the heart. Often used in advertising.

마음을 전하는 선물로 이 향수를 추천합니다.

말로는 다 전할 수 없는 마음

— A heart/feeling that cannot be fully conveyed with words.

말로는 다 전할 수 없는 제 마음을 이 노래에 담았습니다.

서로의 마음을 전하다

— To convey hearts to each other. Implies mutual understanding.

우리는 대화를 통해 서로의 마음을 전했다.

마음을 전하기 위해

— In order to convey one's heart.

마음을 전하기 위해 먼 길을 달려왔어.

마음 전하기 캠페인

— A campaign for conveying hearts (often for charity or social bonding).

연말을 맞아 마음 전하기 캠페인이 열리고 있다.

Often Confused With

마음을 전하다 vs 마음을 바꾸다

This means 'to change one's mind', whereas '전하다' is about expressing existing feelings.

마음을 전하다 vs 마음을 먹다

This means 'to make up one's mind' or 'to decide', not to communicate it.

마음을 전하다 vs 마음을 얻다

This means 'to win someone's heart/favor', which is often the *result* of conveying your heart.

Idioms & Expressions

"이심전심"

— Telepathy; communicating heart-to-heart without words.

우리는 말하지 않아도 서로의 마음을 아는 이심전심 사이다.

Formal/Literary

"심금을 울리다"

— To touch the heartstrings; to deeply move someone's emotions.

그의 연설은 모든 청중의 심금을 울렸다.

Literary

"가슴에 와 닿다"

— To touch one's heart; to be relatable or moving.

그 가사가 제 가슴에 깊이 와 닿았어요.

Neutral

"마음이 통하다"

— To understand each other's hearts; to be on the same wavelength.

처음 만났을 때부터 마음이 잘 통하는 친구였어요.

Neutral

"뼈저리게 느끼다"

— To feel something to the bone; to realize something deeply/painfully.

부모님의 소중함을 뼈저리게 느끼고 있습니다.

Neutral

"가슴이 벅차다"

— To be overwhelmed with emotion (usually joy or pride).

우승 소식을 듣고 가슴이 벅차올랐다.

Neutral

"속을 터놓다"

— To open up one's heart; to speak frankly.

오랜만에 친구와 속을 터놓고 이야기했다.

Informal

"간담이 서늘하다"

— To be chilled to the bone (usually from fear, but involves the 'heart/liver').

사고가 날 뻔해서 간담이 서늘했다.

Idiomatic

"애가 타다"

— To be anxious or worried (burning the 'intestines/heart').

연락이 안 돼서 애가 타 죽는 줄 알았어.

Informal

"심장이 멎는 것 같다"

— To feel like one's heart is stopping (from shock or beauty).

그녀를 처음 본 순간 심장이 멎는 것 같았다.

Neutral

Easily Confused

마음을 전하다 vs 전달하다

Both mean 'to deliver/convey'.

'전달하다' is for physical items or information. '전하다' is for abstract things like feelings, news, or traditions. Using '전달하다' for feelings sounds cold.

택배를 전달하다 (Deliver a package) vs. 마음을 전하다 (Convey a heart).

마음을 전하다 vs 표현하다

Both involve making feelings known.

'표현하다' is the general act of expression (art, speech, style). '마음을 전하다' specifically implies a sincere delivery of one's inner self to another person.

생각을 표현하다 (Express thoughts) vs. 마음을 전하다 (Convey feelings).

마음을 전하다 vs 말하다

Both involve communication.

'말하다' is the physical act of speaking. '마음을 전하다' includes the intent, the sincerity, and often a medium like a gift or action.

비밀을 말하다 (Tell a secret) vs. 마음을 전하다 (Convey a heart).

마음을 전하다 vs 알리다

Both mean to let someone know something.

'알리다' is used for facts, news, or announcements. '마음을 전하다' is for personal emotions.

합격 소식을 알리다 (Inform of passing) vs. 감사의 마음을 전하다 (Convey gratitude).

마음을 전하다 vs 고백하다

Both are used in romantic contexts.

'고백하다' is the specific act of admitting love or a secret. '마음을 전하다' is broader and can be used for thanks, apologies, or sympathy.

사랑을 고백하다 (Confess love) vs. 위로의 마음을 전하다 (Convey sympathy).

Sentence Patterns

[Noun]으로 마음을 전해요.

꽃으로 마음을 전해요.

[Recipient]에게 [Noun]으로 마음을 전해요.

엄마에게 편지로 마음을 전해요.

어떻게 마음을 전할지 모르겠어요.

그녀에게 어떻게 마음을 전할지 모르겠어요.

[Noun]을/를 통해 마음을 전하다.

음악을 통해 마음을 전해요.

진심 어린 마음이 전해지다.

그의 진심 어린 마음이 전해졌어요.

마음을 전하는 것만큼 [Adj]한 것은 없다.

마음을 전하는 것만큼 중요한 것은 없다.

말로 다 전할 수 없는 마음을 [Verb].

말로 다 전할 수 없는 마음을 담아 노래합니다.

[Noun]은/는 마음을 전하는 매개체이다.

예술은 작가의 마음을 전하는 매개체이다.

Word Family

Nouns

마음 (heart/mind)

전달 (delivery/conveyance)

진심 (sincerity)

감정 (emotion)

Verbs

전하다 (to convey/deliver)

전달하다 (to deliver - technical)

전해지다 (to be conveyed - passive)

전해 듣다 (to hear from someone else)

Adjectives

지극하다 (extreme/devoted - used with heart)

간절하다 (earnest/desperate)

따뜻하다 (warm)

선물 (gift)

편지 (letter)

고백 (confession)

감사 (gratitude)

사과 (apology)

How to Use It

frequency

Extremely high in emotional and social contexts.

Common Mistakes

마음을 전달하다 (Maeum-eul jeondalhada) → 마음을 전하다 (Maeum-eul jeonhada)
Jeondalhada is too mechanical/technical for emotions. It sounds like a logistics operation.
마음이 전하다 (Maeum-i jeonhada) → 마음을 전하다 (Maeum-eul jeonhada)
You need the object particle '을' because '전하다' is an active verb. '마음이 전해지다' is the passive version.
마음을 말하다 (Maeum-eul malhada) → 마음을 전하다 (Maeum-eul jeonhada)
While '말하다' is okay, it's very basic. '전하다' is much more natural and heartfelt for emotions.
Using it for simple opinions. → Using it for deep emotions.
Don't use '마음을 전하다' just to say you want pizza. Use it for gratitude, love, or apologies.
마음을 전해요 to a grandparent. → 마음을 전해 드려요 / 전합니다.
Always use appropriate honorifics when conveying your heart to an elder.

Tips

Use with -로

Always remember to use the particle '-로' (by/with) when you are using a medium like a letter or a gift to convey your heart.

Sincerity First

This phrase is all about 'Jin-sim' (sincerity). Only use it when you really mean what you are saying, as it carries emotional weight.

Gift Giving

In Korea, gifts are rarely just objects. They are 'vessels' for the heart. Using this phrase while giving a gift makes the gesture much more meaningful.

Card Openings

If you don't know how to start a letter, '마음을 전하고 싶어 글을 씁니다' is a perfect, polite, and warm opening.

Honorifics

When speaking to elders, use '전해 드립니다' instead of '전해요' to show proper respect (Hyo).

K-Drama Cues

When you hear this phrase in a drama, pay attention to the music. It usually signals a turning point in a relationship.

Related Words

Learn '진심' (sincerity) along with this phrase, as they are almost always used together.

Not Just Words

Remember that '전하다' implies a delivery. It's like sending a package from your heart to theirs.

Business Context

In business, use it to express deep gratitude for a partnership. It builds 'Jeong' and long-term trust.

Daily Practice

Try writing one sentence every day about someone you want to 'convey your heart' to.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of 'Maeum' as 'My Room' - a place where you keep all your secret feelings. 'Jeonhada' sounds like 'Join' - you are joining your room with someone else's by delivering your feelings.

Visual Association

Imagine a glowing red heart being carefully placed into a delivery box and handed over to another person with a smile.

Word Web

마음 (Heart) 전하다 (Convey) 선물 (Gift) 편지 (Letter) 진심 (Sincerity) 사랑 (Love) 감사 (Thanks) 고백 (Confess)

Challenge

Try to say '제 마음을 전하고 싶어요' three times fast while thinking of someone you are grateful for. Then, actually send them a message!

Word Origin

The word '마음' (maeum) is a native Korean word that has existed for centuries, evolving from Middle Korean '마ᅀᆞᆷ' (mazom). It is the quintessential term for the seat of human emotion and thought. '전하다' (jeonhada) comes from the Hanja '傳' (deliver/transmit) and the native verb suffix '하다'.

Original meaning: The original meaning of '마음' was likely closer to 'breath' or 'spirit', while '전하다' meant to physically pass an object from one person to another.

Koreanic (Native '마음') + Sino-Korean ('전' from 傳).

Cultural Context

Be careful when using this with strangers; it is quite personal and intimate. In business, keep it focused on 'gratitude' rather than general 'feelings'.

In English, we say 'I want to tell you how I feel,' which is more direct. 'Convey my heart' sounds a bit more poetic or old-fashioned in English, but it is perfectly modern and common in Korean.

K-Drama 'Crash Landing on You': The leads often use this phrase to bridge the gap between North and South. Song '마음을 드려요' (I Give You My Heart) by IU: A perfect example of the sentiment. The 'Pepero Day' marketing often uses the slogan '마음을 전하세요'.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Romantic Confession

오랫동안 숨겨온 마음을 전하고 싶어.
내 마음을 전할 용기가 생겼어.
어떻게 하면 내 마음이 전해질까?
이 꽃으로 내 마음을 전할게.

Gratitude to a Mentor

선생님께 감사의 마음을 전하고 싶습니다.
말로 다 전할 수 없는 마음입니다.
작은 정성으로 제 마음을 전합니다.
항상 마음을 다해 전해 주셔서 감사합니다.

Apology

미안한 마음을 어떻게 전해야 할지 모르겠어.
제 진심 어린 마음을 전하러 왔습니다.
사과의 마음이 잘 전해졌으면 좋겠어요.
편지에 제 마음을 다 담아 전했습니다.

Professional Appreciation

팀원 여러분께 격려의 마음을 전합니다.
협력해주신 분들께 마음을 전하고자 합니다.
성공적인 마무리에 감사의 마음을 전합니다.
앞으로도 서로 마음을 전하며 일했으면 합니다.

Expressing Sympathy

깊은 애도의 마음을 전합니다.
위로의 마음을 전할 길이 없네요.
함께 아파하는 마음을 전하고 싶습니다.
따뜻한 마음을 전해 주셔서 큰 힘이 되었습니다.

Conversation Starters

"부모님께 마지막으로 마음을 전한 게 언제예요?"

"좋아하는 사람에게 마음을 전할 때 가장 좋은 방법은 뭐라고 생각하세요?"

"말로 하기 힘들 때 어떻게 마음을 전하는 편이에요?"

"누군가에게 진심 어린 마음을 전해 받은 적이 있나요?"

"마음을 전하는 데 있어서 가장 중요한 것은 무엇일까요?"

Journal Prompts

오늘 고마웠던 사람에게 마음을 전하는 짧은 편지를 써 보세요.

내가 누군가에게 마음을 전했을 때의 기분을 자세히 묘사해 보세요.

말보다 행동으로 마음을 전했던 경험에 대해 써 보세요.

평소에 마음을 전하지 못해 후회되는 일이 있다면 적어 보세요.

나에게 '마음을 전한다'는 것은 어떤 의미인지 정의해 보세요.

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

Yes, absolutely. It is a very common way to express that your apology is sincere. You can say '미안한 마음을 전하고 싶어요' (I want to convey my sorry heart/feelings).

Yes, but use the honorific form: '감사의 마음을 전해 드리고 싶습니다'. It shows great respect and sincerity.

In this context, it covers heart, mind, and soul. It refers to your inner, genuine state of being.

Yes, you can convey your heart through words alone or even through a look. The phrase describes the *act* of emotional transmission, regardless of the medium.

'마음을 전하다' is when you actively try to express yourself. '마음이 전해지다' is the passive result—when the other person actually feels or understands your sincerity.

It can be, but it isn't exclusively romantic. It's used for any deep emotion, including gratitude to a teacher or sympathy for a friend.

In that case, use '말씀 전해 드릴게요' or '전해 줄게요'. '마음' is usually for your own feelings unless you are conveying someone else's sincere regards.

Technically yes, but it is almost always used for positive or sincere feelings like love, thanks, or regret. You wouldn't usually 'convey your heart' of anger.

It's common in situations that require sincerity. You won't hear it when someone is asking where the bathroom is, but you'll hear it often in meaningful interactions.

Pairing it with '-고 싶어서' is very natural. '제 마음을 전하고 싶어서 선물을 준비했어요' (I prepared a gift because I wanted to convey my heart).