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세부적이다

A2 adjective #3,000 most common 10 min read

세부적이다

sebujeogida Top 3,000

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips 세부적이다 in 30 Seconds

Explanation 세부적이다 in your Level:

At the A1 level, the concept of 'detailed' is usually expressed through simple words like '많이' (a lot) or '자세히' (in detail). However, learning 세부적이다 helps you understand that Korean uses special endings like -적이다 for abstract descriptions. At this stage, you should focus on the basic meaning: 'having many small parts.' Imagine a picture with many tiny trees; describing that picture as having '세부적인' parts means you are looking at each tiny tree rather than just the whole forest. You will mostly encounter this word as 세부적인 before a noun, like 세부적인 계획 (detailed plan). Don't worry about using it in complex sentences yet; just recognize it when you see it in lists or simple instructions. It is a 'big word' that will make you sound very smart if you use it correctly with simple nouns.

At the A2 level, you are beginning to describe plans, schedules, and experiences in more depth. 세부적이다 becomes very useful here. You can use it to talk about your daily schedule (세부적인 일정) or to ask for more information in a store or at a tourist information center. You should practice changing the word into its three main forms: 세부적이다 (it is detailed), 세부적인 (detailed...), and 세부적으로 (in a detailed way). For example, if you are learning how to cook a Korean dish, you might ask the teacher to explain 세부적으로. This level is about moving from 'I like this' to 'I like the detailed parts of this.' It helps you bridge the gap between basic survival Korean and more descriptive, conversational Korean.

At the B1 level, you are expected to handle professional and academic topics with some confidence. 세부적이다 is a key vocabulary item for this transition. You should use it to provide specific feedback or to analyze a problem. Instead of just saying a report is 'good,' you can say it is '세부적이라서 좋다' (it's good because it's detailed). You will also start to see this word in news articles and longer reading passages. At this level, you should distinguish it from 구체적이다 (concrete/specific). While 구체적이다 focuses on being clear and avoiding vagueness, 세부적이다 focuses on the depth and number of details. You might use 세부적으로 to describe how you studied for an exam or how a machine works. It is a vital word for expressing precision in your opinions.

At the B2 level, you should use 세부적이다 naturally in debates and formal writing. You are now able to discuss complex issues, and this word allows you to point out the nuances in an argument. For instance, you might argue that while a policy is good in general, its 세부적인 조항 (detailed clauses) need work. You should also be comfortable using it with adverbs of degree like 지나치게 (excessively) or 상당히 (considerably). At this stage, you are expected to understand the Hanja roots: 세 (細 - fine) and 부 (部 - part). This knowledge helps you realize that this word is specifically about 'fine parts.' You can use it to critique art, literature, or business strategies, showing that you can look beyond the surface level of a topic.

At the C1 level, your use of 세부적이다 should reflect a sophisticated understanding of register and context. You can use it to discuss the 'granularity' of data or the 'intricacies' of a legal document. You should be able to contrast 세부적이다 with more advanced synonyms like 상세하다, 면밀하다, or 치밀하다 depending on whether you want to emphasize fullness, thoroughness, or elaborate planning. Your writing should include phrases like 세부적인 분석을 토대로 (based on a detailed analysis) or 세부적인 사항을 조율하다 (to coordinate detailed matters). At this level, you are not just using the word; you are using it to build complex, logical structures in your speech and writing, demonstrating a near-native command of formal Korean vocabulary.

At the C2 level, 세부적이다 is a foundational block for highly specialized discourse. You use it in technical, philosophical, or high-level administrative contexts where every 'fine part' matters. You might discuss the 세부적인 역학 관계 (detailed mechanical relationships/dynamics) in a political system or the 세부적인 텍스처 (detailed textures) in a piece of classical literature. You understand the subtle rhetorical effect of choosing this Sino-Korean word over native alternatives to maintain a professional, objective tone. You can use it to navigate the most complex Korean texts, from legal codes to scientific journals, and you can produce such texts yourself, using 세부적이다 and its derivatives to provide the exact level of precision required for the highest levels of professional and academic success in Korea.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

세부적이다 in 30 Seconds

An adjective meaning 'detailed' or 'specific' in a structural sense.
Used frequently in formal, business, and academic contexts.
Comes from Hanja roots meaning 'fine' and 'part'.
Opposite of '대략적이다' (general/rough).

The Korean word 세부적이다 (se-bu-jeok-i-da) is a descriptive verb (adjective) that translates most accurately to 'being detailed,' 'specific,' or 'granular.' It is composed of three distinct parts: 세 (細 - fine/thin), 부 (部 - part/section), and the suffix 적 (的 - -ic/-al), followed by the copula 이다 (to be). When you describe something as 세부적이다, you are emphasizing that it doesn't just look at the big picture but examines the tiny, intricate components that make up the whole. This word is essential for moving beyond basic Korean into professional, academic, and descriptive contexts where precision is paramount.

Professional Context: In a business setting, a manager might ask for a 세부적인 계획 (detailed plan). Here, it implies that every step, budget item, and timeline must be clearly defined rather than just providing a general summary.
Academic and Scientific Context: When discussing research findings or experimental data, scholars use 세부적인 분석 (detailed analysis) to indicate that they have looked at the data points individually and accounted for small variables.
Daily Life and Descriptions: If you are describing a person's appearance or the design of a building, you might say the 세부적인 묘사 (detailed description) was impressive, meaning the speaker or writer captured the small nuances that others might miss.

이 보고서는 매우 세부적이다. (This report is very detailed.)

Understanding when to use 세부적이다 versus its synonyms is crucial. While 상세하다 (to be detailed) is often interchangeable, 세부적이다 carries a slightly more analytical and systematic tone. It suggests a breakdown into sections (부). If you are looking at a map and noticing the small streets, you are looking at the 세부적인 부분 (detailed parts). It is the opposite of 대략적이다 (to be rough/general).

우리는 세부적인 일정에 대해 논의했다. (We discussed the detailed schedule.)

In terms of frequency, you will encounter this word constantly in news reports, documentaries, and technical manuals. It is a 'level-up' word; while a beginner might say 많이 설명해요 (explain a lot), an intermediate learner says 세부적으로 설명해요 (explain in detail). This shift demonstrates a higher command of Korean nuance and formal register.

선생님은 세부적인 규칙을 알려주셨다. (The teacher informed us of the detailed rules.)

Art and Design: In design, 세부적인 디자인 refers to the micro-elements like textures, shadows, and spacing that create a polished look.

그림의 세부적인 묘사가 놀랍다. (The detailed depiction of the painting is amazing.)

분석이 참 세부적이다. (The analysis is truly detailed.)

Using 세부적이다 correctly requires understanding its grammatical flexibility. As an adjective ending in -적이다, it can function as a predicate at the end of a sentence, or it can be modified to act as an attributive adjective or an adverb. This versatility allows you to add precision to almost any sentence structure.

The Predicative Form (-적이다): When you want to state that something 'is detailed,' you use the base form. In polite speech, this becomes 세부적이에요 or 세부적입니다. For example: 계획이 아주 세부적이에요 (The plan is very detailed).
The Attributive Form (-적인): When you want to describe a noun (e.g., 'a detailed plan'), you replace -이다 with -인. This is the most common way you will see this word used. Example: 세부적인 목표를 세우세요 (Set detailed goals).
The Adverbial Form (-적으로): To describe 'how' an action is performed (e.g., 'explaining in detail'), you replace -이다 with -적으로. Example: 세부적으로 설명해 주세요 (Please explain in detail).

우리는 세부적인 사항까지 검토했다. (We reviewed even the detailed matters.)

One of the strengths of 세부적이다 is its ability to pair with nouns related to planning, analysis, and description. Common pairings include 세부적인 일정 (detailed schedule), 세부적인 묘사 (detailed description), and 세부적인 정보 (detailed information). By using these collocations, your Korean will sound more natural and professional.

그는 사건을 세부적으로 기억하고 있었다. (He was remembering the incident in detail.)

In negative sentences, you can use 세부적이지 않다 (is not detailed). For instance, 이 지도는 세부적이지 않아서 길을 찾기 힘들어요 (This map is not detailed, so it's hard to find the way). This structure is useful for providing constructive feedback in professional environments.

더 세부적인 자료가 필요합니다. (We need more detailed data.)

Combining with Adverbs: You can enhance the degree by using 매우 (very), 상당히 (considerably), or 지나치게 (excessively). 너무 세부적이다 can sometimes mean 'too detailed' in a way that is overwhelming.

질문이 상당히 세부적이다. (The questions are considerably detailed.)

그녀의 보고는 세부적인 수치를 포함하고 있다. (Her report includes detailed figures.)

While 세부적이다 might seem like a complex word, it is ubiquitous in South Korean society, especially in environments that value precision and clarity. From corporate boardrooms to creative design studios, knowing where you'll encounter this word helps you prepare for real-world interactions.

In the Workplace (Office Life): Korean corporate culture is known for its emphasis on thoroughness. You will hear 세부적이다 during project planning phases. A boss might say, '세부적인 가이드라인을 작성하세요' (Write detailed guidelines). It's also common in feedback: '이 기획안은 세부적인 면에서 보완이 필요합니다' (This proposal needs supplementation in the detailed aspects).
In News and Media: News anchors often use this word when reporting on government policies or legal rulings. They might discuss the 세부적인 시행령 (detailed enforcement ordinances) or 세부적인 조사 결과 (detailed investigation results). It adds a layer of authority and objectivity to the reporting.
In Education and Tutorials: If you watch Korean educational content on YouTube or attend a class, instructors will use 세부적으로 when they are about to dive deep into a topic. '이제 세부적으로 하나씩 살펴봅시다' (Now let's look at them one by one in detail) is a standard transition phrase.

정부는 세부적인 방역 수칙을 발표했다. (The government announced detailed quarantine rules.)

In the world of technology and gaming, 세부적이다 describes high-fidelity graphics or complex game mechanics. A reviewer might praise a game's 세부적인 그래픽 (detailed graphics), referring to the textures and lighting that make the world feel real. Similarly, in software development, 세부적인 요구사항 (detailed requirements) are necessary for building functional applications.

작가는 인물의 심리를 세부적으로 묘사했다. (The author described the character's psychology in detail.)

You will also hear this in travel contexts. When booking a tour, the 세부 일정 (detailed itinerary) tells you exactly where you will be at 10:00 AM versus 2:00 PM. If a travel agent says the plan is 세부적이다, you can expect a well-organized trip with little room for confusion.

이 매뉴얼은 세부적인 조립 방법을 설명한다. (This manual explains the detailed assembly method.)

In Legal and Medical Fields: Precision is a matter of life or law here. Doctors provide 세부적인 진단 (detailed diagnosis), and lawyers draft 세부적인 계약서 (detailed contracts) to prevent any future disputes.

변호사는 세부적인 조항을 하나하나 확인했다. (The lawyer checked the detailed clauses one by one.)

그의 설명은 너무 세부적이라서 이해하기 쉬웠다. (His explanation was so detailed that it was easy to understand.)

Even for intermediate learners, 세부적이다 can be tricky because Korean has several words that translate to 'detailed' or 'specific.' Understanding the boundaries of this word will prevent you from sounding awkward or imprecise.

Mistake 1: Confusing with '자세하다': This is the most common error. While 자세하다 (to be detailed/thorough) is very close, it is a native-feeling adjective often used for descriptions. 세부적이다 is more formal and analytical. You wouldn't usually say '이 이야기는 세부적이다' in a casual conversation; '자세하다' sounds more natural there.
Mistake 2: Incorrect Particle Usage with '-적으로': Learners sometimes try to use 세부적인 as an adverb by adding -하게 (e.g., 세부적이게). While grammatically possible in some niche cases, 세부적으로 is the standard and far more common adverbial form. Stick to -적으로 for all actions.
Mistake 3: Overusing it in Casual Speech: Using 세부적이다 when talking to friends about a movie or a meal can sound overly stiff or 'robotic.' In casual settings, words like 디테일하다 (Konglish for 'detailed') or 꼼꼼하다 (meticulous) are often preferred.

❌ 이 사과는 세부적이다. (This apple is detailed.)
✅ 이 사과의 묘사는 세부적이다. (The description of this apple is detailed.)

Another mistake is forgetting that 세부적이다 refers to the structure of information. You cannot use it to describe a physical object's size or physical detail directly without referring to its 'parts' or 'aspects.' For example, you don't say a small needle is '세부적이다'; you say it is '가늘다' (thin) or '작다' (small).

❌ 세부적인 사람 (A detailed person - sounds like they are made of many parts.)
✅ 꼼꼼한 사람 (A meticulous person.)

Finally, ensure you don't confuse it with 개별적이다 (individual). While individual parts are detailed, 개별적이다 focuses on the separation of items, whereas 세부적이다 focuses on the depth of the information provided about those items.

계획을 세부적으로 세우지 않으면 실패할 수 있다. (If you don't make a plan in detail, you might fail.)

Spelling Note: Be careful not to spell it as '세부적이다' with a different '부'. The '부' (部) means part, which is the core logic of the word.

그의 분석은 세부적이지만 핵심이 빠져 있다. (His analysis is detailed, but the core is missing.)

우리는 세부적인 차이점을 발견했다. (We discovered detailed differences.)

In Korean, the concept of 'detailed' is expressed through various words depending on the context, formality, and what exactly is being described. Knowing these alternatives will help you choose the most precise word for your situation.

상세하다 (Sang-se-ha-da): This is the closest synonym to 세부적이다. It means 'to be detailed' and is used very frequently. While 세부적이다 emphasizes the 'parts' (부), 상세하다 emphasizes the 'fullness' and 'minuteness' of the information. 상세한 설명 is slightly more common than 세부적인 설명.
구체적이다 (Gu-che-jeok-i-da): This means 'to be concrete' or 'specific.' It is the opposite of 추상적이다 (abstract). If a plan is '구체적,' it means it is clear and actionable. If it is '세부적,' it means it contains many small details. Often, a plan needs to be both.
자세하다 (Ja-se-ha-da): A native Korean adjective meaning 'detailed.' This is the most versatile and 'friendly' word. It is used in everything from 'Please explain in detail' (자세히 설명해 주세요) to 'The map is detailed' (지도가 자세하다).
면밀하다 (Myeon-mil-ha-da): This means 'to be thorough' or 'meticulous.' It is often used with verbs like 검토하다 (review) or 조사하다 (investigate). It implies a high level of care and attention to detail to ensure no mistakes are made.

그는 상세한 지도를 그렸다. (He drew a detailed map.)

When comparing these words, think about the 'vibe' of the sentence. If you are writing a technical report, 세부적이다 or 상세하다 are best. If you are talking to a friend about your day, 자세히 is more natural. If you are telling someone to be more specific and stop being vague, 구체적으로 is the right choice.

더 구체적인 계획이 필요해요. (We need a more concrete/specific plan.)

In formal settings, you might also hear 치밀하다 (to be elaborate/meticulous), which often describes a plan or a crime that has been thought out with extreme precision. While 세부적이다 is neutral, 치밀하다 can sometimes carry a slightly cold or calculated connotation.

범행 계획이 매우 치밀했다. (The crime plan was very elaborate.)

꼼꼼하다 (Kkom-kkom-ha-da): This describes a person's personality or work style. A person who is 꼼꼼하다 will produce a 세부적인 report. You describe the person as 꼼꼼하다 and the report as 세부적이다.

그녀는 성격이 꼼꼼해서 실수가 없다. (She is meticulous, so she makes no mistakes.)

상황을 면밀히 조사하고 있습니다. (We are investigating the situation thoroughly.)

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

The character 細 (세) is the same one used in '세포' (cell), reflecting the idea of the smallest building blocks.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /se.bu.dʑʌk.i.da/

US /se.bu.dʒʌk.i.da/

In Korean, stress is generally even across syllables, but a slight emphasis can be placed on the first syllable '세'.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 3/5

Requires recognition of the -적 suffix and basic Hanja roots.

Writing 4/5

Choosing between this and synonyms like '자세하다' takes practice.

Speaking 3/5

Pronunciation is straightforward, but usage is mostly in formal settings.

Listening 3/5

Common in news and business, easy to hear once you know the '적' ending.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

자세하다 부분 계획 설명 이다

Learn Next

구체적이다 상세하다 면밀하다 추상적이다 일반적이다

Advanced

규명하다 실증적 분석적 체계적 객관적

Grammar to Know

The '-적' (jeok) Suffix

경제 (Economy) -> 경제적 (Economic), 세부 (Detail) -> 세부적 (Detailed)

Adjective to Adverb conversion with '-적으로'

세부적이다 -> 세부적으로 (Detailed -> In detail)

Adjective to Attributive form with '-인'

세부적이다 -> 세부적인 (Detailed [description])

Noun + 이다 (Copula)

이것은 세부적이다 (This is detailed)

Reasoning with '-이라서'

세부적이라서 (Because it is detailed)

Examples by Level

이 그림은 세부적입니다.

This drawing is detailed.

The base form '세부적이다' is changed to the polite '세부적입니다'.

세부적인 계획이 있어요.

I have a detailed plan.

Here, '세부적인' describes the noun '계획' (plan).

설명이 세부적이에요.

The explanation is detailed.

Polite ending '-이에요' added to the adjective root.

세부적인 지도를 보세요.

Look at the detailed map.

Imperative form '-세요' used with the object '지도'.

이것은 세부적인 규칙입니다.

These are detailed rules.

Formal ending '-입니다' used for a statement.

세부적으로 말해 주세요.

Please tell me in detail.

'-적으로' turns the adjective into an adverb.

세부적인 부분도 중요해요.

The detailed parts are also important.

'-도' means 'also' or 'even'.

질문이 세부적이에요.

The question is detailed.

Subject marker '-이' used with '질문'.

세부적인 일정을 알려 주세요.

Please let me know the detailed schedule.

'-를 알려 주다' means 'to let someone know'.

그녀는 세부적인 묘사를 잘해요.

She is good at detailed descriptions.

'-을 잘하다' means 'to be good at something'.

보고서가 아주 세부적이에요.

The report is very detailed.

'아주' is an adverb meaning 'very'.

세부적인 내용은 나중에 확인합시다.

Let's check the detailed content later.

'-읍시다' is a formal 'let's' ending.

더 세부적인 정보가 필요해요.

We need more detailed information.

'더' means 'more'.

그는 세부적으로 계획을 세웠다.

He made a plan in detail.

Plain past tense '세웠다' used.

세부적인 차이를 모르겠어요.

I don't know the detailed differences.

'-지 못하다' or '-지 않다' could also be used for negation.

이 지도는 정말 세부적이다.

This map is really detailed.

Plain form '세부적이다' used for exclamation or internal thought.

세부적인 분석 결과가 나왔습니다.

The results of the detailed analysis are out.

'-이 나오다' means 'to come out' or 'to be released'.

문제를 세부적으로 검토해야 합니다.

We must review the problem in detail.

'-해야 하다' indicates necessity or obligation.

세부적인 사항은 이메일로 보내겠습니다.

I will send the detailed matters via email.

'-겠-' indicates intention or future plan.

그 영화는 세부적인 연출이 돋보였다.

The movie's detailed directing stood out.

'-이 돋보이다' means 'to stand out' or 'to be prominent'.

세부적인 목표를 정하는 것이 중요합니다.

It is important to set detailed goals.

'-는 것이 중요하다' is a common pattern for 'it is important to...'

과거의 기억이 세부적으로 떠올랐다.

Past memories came back in detail.

'-이 떠오르다' means 'to come to mind'.

세부적인 조건들을 확인해 보세요.

Please check the detailed conditions.

'-해 보다' means 'to try doing something' or 'to check'.

기사가 너무 세부적이라 읽기 힘들다.

The article is so detailed that it's hard to read.

'-이라(서)' indicates a reason.

세부적인 통계 자료를 바탕으로 보고서를 작성했다.

I wrote the report based on detailed statistical data.

'-을 바탕으로' means 'based on' or 'on the basis of'.

이 프로젝트는 세부적인 기획 단계에 있다.

This project is in the detailed planning stage.

'-에 있다' indicates being in a certain state or location.

세부적으로 파고들면 문제가 더 복잡해진다.

If you dig in detail, the problem becomes more complex.

'-면' indicates a conditional 'if'.

그는 자신의 주장을 세부적인 예시를 들어 설명했다.

He explained his argument by giving detailed examples.

'-을 들어' is used when providing examples.

세부적인 묘사 덕분에 현장감이 느껴졌다.

Thanks to the detailed description, I felt a sense of being there.

'- 덕분에' means 'thanks to' (positive cause).

우리는 세부적인 협상안을 마련해야 한다.

We need to prepare a detailed negotiation proposal.

'마련해야 한다' means 'must prepare/arrange'.

세부적인 수치까지 정확하게 기록하세요.

Record even the detailed figures accurately.

'-까지' emphasizes 'even' or 'to the extent of'.

이 디자인은 세부적인 면에서 완성도가 높다.

This design has a high level of perfection in its detailed aspects.

'-면에서' means 'in terms of' or 'from the aspect of'.

세부적인 법적 검토가 선행되어야 합니다.

A detailed legal review must be conducted beforehand.

'선행되어야 하다' means 'must be preceded/done first'.

그의 논문은 세부적인 실증 연구를 포함하고 있다.

His thesis includes detailed empirical research.

'-을 포함하고 있다' is the continuous form of 'to include'.

세부적인 차이를 간과하면 큰 실수를 할 수 있다.

If you overlook detailed differences, you can make a big mistake.

'간과하면' means 'if one overlooks/ignores'.

정부는 세부적인 예산 집행 계획을 수립했다.

The government established a detailed budget execution plan.

'수립했다' is a formal word for 'established' or 'set up'.

세부적으로 관찰하면 보이지 않던 것이 보인다.

If you observe in detail, things that were invisible become visible.

'-던' refers to a past state that has changed.

세부적인 묘사력이 이 작가의 가장 큰 강점이다.

Detailed descriptive power is this author's greatest strength.

'-력' (power/ability) is a common suffix.

세부적인 조율을 거쳐 최종 합의에 도달했다.

After going through detailed coordination, a final agreement was reached.

'-을 거쳐' means 'passing through' or 'after going through'.

이 시스템은 세부적인 사용자 설정이 가능하다.

This system allows for detailed user settings.

'-이 가능하다' means 'to be possible'.

세부적인 역학 관계를 규명하는 것이 이번 연구의 핵심이다.

The core of this research is identifying the detailed mechanical relationships.

'규명하다' is a highly formal word for 'to investigate and clarify'.

그의 비판은 매우 세부적이고 논리적이었다.

His criticism was very detailed and logical.

'-고' connects two adjectives.

세부적인 시행령이 마련되지 않아 혼선이 빚어지고 있다.

Confusion is being caused because detailed enforcement ordinances have not been prepared.

'혼선이 빚어지다' is an idiomatic way to say 'confusion is caused'.

작가는 세부적인 묘사를 통해 시대의 아픔을 형상화했다.

The author embodied the pain of the era through detailed descriptions.

'형상화하다' means 'to give shape to' or 'to embody'.

세부적인 데이터 분석 없이는 정확한 예측이 불가능하다.

Without detailed data analysis, accurate prediction is impossible.

'- 없이는' means 'without'.

세부적인 공정 과정에서 오류가 발생한 것으로 보인다.

It appears that an error occurred in the detailed processing stage.

'-ㄴ 것으로 보인다' means 'it appears that...'.

세부적인 계약 조항을 면밀히 검토한 후 서명했다.

I signed after thoroughly reviewing the detailed contract clauses.

'-ㄴ 후' means 'after doing something'.

세부적인 차이가 전체의 품질을 결정짓는다.

Detailed differences determine the overall quality.

'결정짓다' is a strong verb for 'to determine'.

Common Collocations

세부적인 계획

세부적인 묘사

세부적인 분석

세부적인 일정

세부적인 정보

세부적인 규칙

세부적인 차이

세부적인 사항

세부적인 목표

세부적인 가이드라인

Common Phrases

세부적으로 설명하다

— To explain something in great detail.

선생님은 그 이론을 세부적으로 설명하셨다.

세부적인 면에서

— In terms of small details or aspects.

세부적인 면에서 보면 차이가 큽니다.

세부 사항을 확인하다

— To check the specific details.

계약서의 세부 사항을 확인하세요.

세부 계획을 수립하다

— To establish a detailed plan.

내년 사업의 세부 계획을 수립 중이다.

세부 일정을 짜다

— To make a detailed schedule.

여행의 세부 일정을 짜는 것이 힘들다.

세부적인 묘사를 더하다

— To add detailed description.

그림에 세부적인 묘사를 더했다.

세부적인 분석을 거치다

— To go through a detailed analysis.

이 결과는 세부적인 분석을 거쳤다.

세부적인 지침을 내리다

— To give detailed instructions.

상사는 부하 직원에게 세부적인 지침을 내렸다.

세부적인 부분까지 신경 쓰다

— To pay attention to even the smallest details.

그는 세부적인 부분까지 신경 쓰는 편이다.

세부적인 정보를 제공하다

— To provide detailed information.

웹사이트에서 세부적인 정보를 제공합니다.

Often Confused With

세부적이다 vs 자세하다

자세하다 is more common in daily speech and focuses on the thoroughness of a description. 세부적이다 focuses on the structural breakdown of parts.

세부적이다 vs 구체적이다

구체적이다 means 'specific/concrete' as opposed to abstract. A plan can be concrete (actionable) but not necessarily detailed (including every tiny part).

세부적이다 vs 상세하다

Almost identical, but 상세하다 is slightly more common for 'detailed explanations,' while 세부적이다 is preferred for 'detailed plans or structures'.

Idioms & Expressions

"하나부터 열까지"

— From one to ten; meaning 'everything' or 'every single detail'.

그는 하나부터 열까지 세부적으로 챙긴다.

Casual/Neutral

"속속들이 알다"

— To know something inside out or in every detail.

나는 그 사건을 속속들이 알고 있다.

Neutral

"구석구석 살피다"

— To look into every corner; to examine in detail.

방 안을 구석구석 세부적으로 살폈다.

Neutral

"뿌리까지 파헤치다"

— To dig down to the roots; to investigate something to the very bottom.

문제를 뿌리까지 세부적으로 파헤쳐야 한다.

Formal/Figurative

"뼈대만 있다"

— To have only the skeleton; meaning it lacks detail (opposite of 세부적이다).

이 계획은 아직 뼈대만 있고 세부적이지 않다.

Neutral

"디테일이 살아있다"

— The details are alive; used to praise high-quality detail in art or work.

이 영화는 디테일이 정말 살아있네요.

Modern/Casual

"입 안의 혀처럼"

— Like the tongue in the mouth; meaning someone who anticipates and attends to every detail for another.

그는 비서로서 세부적인 일을 입 안의 혀처럼 잘 처리한다.

Idiomatic

"바늘 틈도 없다"

— No room for even a needle; describing something so detailed and tight it has no gaps.

그의 논리는 바늘 틈도 없이 세부적이다.

Literary

"손바닥 보듯 하다"

— To know something as if looking at one's own palm; to know in great detail.

그는 서울 지리를 손바닥 보듯 세부적으로 안다.

Neutral

"머리카락을 쪼개다"

— To split hairs; to be excessively detailed or pedantic.

그는 너무 세부적인 것에 집착하며 머리카락을 쪼개는 식이다.

Figurative/Negative

Easily Confused

세부적이다 vs 세부

It's the noun form of the same word.

세부 is a noun meaning 'detail.' 세부적이다 is the adjective form. You use '세부 사항' but '세부적인 계획'.

세부 사항을 보세요. vs 계획이 세부적이다.

세부적이다 vs 개별적

Both refer to parts.

개별적 means 'individual' or 'separate.' 세부적 means 'detailed.' You can have an individual plan that is not detailed.

개별적인 면담. vs 세부적인 면담.

세부적이다 vs 부분적

Both contain the 'part' (부) concept.

부분적 means 'partial' or 'limited to a part.' 세부적 means 'detailed throughout.'

부분적인 성공. vs 세부적인 성공 (awkward).

세부적이다 vs 치밀하다

Both imply high detail.

치밀하다 implies elaborate, often secret or cunning planning. 세부적이다 is a neutral description of depth.

치밀한 범죄. vs 세부적인 보고서.

세부적이다 vs 정밀하다

Both mean precise.

정밀하다 is used for technical precision (machines, surgery). 세부적이다 is used for information and plans.

정밀한 기계. vs 세부적인 규칙.

Sentence Patterns

N + 이/가 세부적이다

계획이 세부적이다.

세부적인 + N

세부적인 일정

세부적으로 + V

세부적으로 설명하다.

N + 에 대한 세부적인 정보

상품에 대한 세부적인 정보

세부적인 면에서 + Adj/V

세부적인 면에서 훌륭하다.

세부적인 사항까지 + V

세부적인 사항까지 검토하다.

세부적인 분석을 바탕으로

세부적인 분석을 바탕으로 결론을 내렸다.

세부적인 역학 관계를 규명하다

세부적인 역학 관계를 규명하는 데 성공했다.

Word Family

Nouns

세부 (detail/specifics)

세부 사항 (detailed matters)

세부 계획 (detailed plan)

세부 일정 (detailed schedule)

Adjectives

세부적 (detailed - noun form used as adjective)

상세하다 (to be detailed)

부분 (part)

구체적 (concrete)

일반적 (general)

전체적 (overall)

개별적 (individual)

How to Use It

frequency

High in professional/media contexts; Moderate in daily speech.

Common Mistakes

이 사과는 세부적이다. → 이 사과는 작다 / 이 사과의 묘사는 세부적이다.
You can't use 세부적이다 for physical objects directly unless you are talking about their description or parts.
세부적이게 설명해 주세요. → 세부적으로 설명해 주세요.
While '-하게' is a common adverb ending, '-적으로' is the standard for adjectives ending in '-적이다'.
세부적인 사람. → 꼼꼼한 사람.
To describe a person's meticulous nature, use '꼼꼼하다'. '세부적인 사람' sounds like a person made of many parts.
세부적이다 계획. → 세부적인 계획.
You must use the attributive form (-인) before a noun.
상세적인 계획. → 상세한 계획 / 세부적인 계획.
Don't mix up the endings. 상세하다 uses '-한', while 세부적이다 uses '-적인'.

Tips

Converting to Adjective

Always remember to change '이다' to '인' when putting 세부적이다 before a noun. '세부적인 정보' is correct; '세부적이다 정보' is wrong.

Hanja Roots

Knowing that '세' means 'fine' and '부' means 'part' helps you remember that this word is about looking at the 'fine parts' of something.

Business Korean

In a Korean office, use '세부적인' to sound more professional than '자세한'. It shows you are thinking analytically.

Don't Over-detail

If someone asks for a summary, don't be too 세부적이다. Use '대략적으로' (roughly) instead.

Common Pairs

Memorize '세부 일정' (detailed schedule) as a single block. You will see it on every tour itinerary and meeting agenda.

Formal Reports

Start your report analysis section with '세부적인 분석 결과는 다음과 같습니다' (The detailed analysis results are as follows).

Identify the Suffix

Many Korean adjectives end in '-적이다'. Once you recognize this pattern, your vocabulary will expand rapidly.

Asking for Detail

If you don't understand something, say '조금 더 세부적으로 설명해 주시겠어요?' (Could you explain a bit more in detail?).

Precision Culture

Koreans value '디테일' (detail). Being 세부적이다 is seen as a mark of high quality in products and services.

Adverb Choice

Use '세부적으로' for formal contexts and '자세히' for informal ones. Both mean 'in detail' but carry different weights.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of 'SAY-BOO' (세부). When you 'SAY' something 'BOO-tifully' detailed, you are being 세부적이다.

Visual Association

Imagine a magnifying glass hovering over a single gear in a giant clock. The gear represents the 세부적인 (detailed) part of the whole machine.

Word Web

세부 (Detail) 계획 (Plan) 분석 (Analysis) 묘사 (Description) 정보 (Information) 일정 (Schedule) 규칙 (Rules) 사항 (Matters)

Challenge

Write three sentences about your favorite hobby using the forms: 세부적이다, 세부적인, and 세부적으로.

Word Origin

Derived from Sino-Korean Hanja characters: 細 (세) meaning 'fine' or 'thin', 部 (부) meaning 'part' or 'section', and 的 (적) meaning '-ic' or '-al'.

Original meaning: The original meaning refers to something that is divided into fine parts.

Sino-Korean (Hanja-based)

Cultural Context

This word is purely descriptive and has no negative or sensitive connotations.

English speakers might use 'detailed' for almost everything, but in Korean, '세부적이다' feels slightly more formal than '자세하다'.

Used in Korean business drama 'Misaeng' to describe project requirements. Commonly found in the 'Detailed Information' section of Korean government websites. Used by art critics to describe the works of Korean realism painters.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Business Meeting

세부적인 계획을 말씀해 주세요.
세부 사항을 조율합시다.
세부적인 데이터가 필요합니다.
일정이 매우 세부적입니다.

Art Museum

세부적인 묘사가 놀랍네요.
작은 부분까지 세부적이에요.
세부적인 표현이 섬세합니다.
그림의 세부적인 면을 보세요.

Legal Consult

세부적인 조항을 확인합시다.
계약이 상당히 세부적입니다.
세부적인 법적 근거가 있나요?
세부 사항을 수정해야 합니다.

Travel Agency

세부 일정을 보내 드릴게요.
세부적인 여행 코스가 궁금해요.
세부적인 비용 내역입니다.
세부 사항은 변경될 수 있습니다.

Academic Research

세부적인 분석 방법입니다.
연구가 매우 세부적이다.
세부적인 통계를 활용했다.
세부적인 검증 절차를 거쳤다.

Conversation Starters

"이 프로젝트의 세부적인 계획은 무엇인가요?"

"그 영화의 세부적인 연출에 대해 어떻게 생각하세요?"

"더 세부적인 설명이 필요하신가요?"

"여행의 세부 일정을 같이 짜볼까요?"

"이 보고서가 너무 세부적이라서 읽는 데 시간이 좀 걸리네요."

Journal Prompts

오늘 하루를 세부적으로 기록해 보세요. (Record your day in detail.)

당신의 미래 꿈에 대한 세부적인 계획을 써 보세요. (Write a detailed plan for your future dreams.)

가장 좋아하는 장소를 세부적으로 묘사해 보세요. (Describe your favorite place in detail.)

최근에 읽은 책의 세부적인 내용을 요약해 보세요. (Summarize the detailed content of a book you recently read.)

완벽한 주말을 위한 세부적인 일정을 만들어 보세요. (Create a detailed schedule for a perfect weekend.)

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

Not directly. You wouldn't say '그는 세부적이다' to mean he is a detailed person. Instead, say '그는 성격이 꼼꼼하다' (He is meticulous) or '그는 세부적인 것까지 잘 챙긴다' (He takes care of even detailed things).

They are very similar. 상세하다 is often used for descriptions and explanations (상세한 설명). 세부적이다 is often used for plans, schedules, and analytical structures (세부적인 계획). In many cases, they are interchangeable.

You can say '세부적으로' (formal/analytical) or '자세히' (common/neutral). '자세히 설명해 주세요' is the most natural way to ask for more detail.

It is generally positive, implying thoroughness. However, if you say '너무 세부적이다' (too detailed), it can imply that the information is overwhelming or pedantic.

Yes, but usually to describe its design or features. '이 장난감은 세부적인 묘사가 뛰어나다' (This toy has excellent detailed depiction).

The most direct opposite is '대략적이다' (rough/approximate). '간단하다' (simple) or '단순하다' (simple/plain) can also be opposites depending on context.

It is 세부적이다. '세부' is a noun. To make it an adjective, you must add '-적' and then the copula '이다'.

Use '세부 사항' in formal writing or documents to refer to 'detailed matters' or 'specifics.' For example, '세부 사항은 첨부 파일을 확인하세요' (Check the attached file for details).

Almost any verb involving communication or analysis. You can explain, analyze, plan, describe, or observe 세부적으로.

Yes, it is often introduced at the A2/B1 level as learners move from basic descriptions to more structured and professional language.