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헌신적이다

A2 adjective #7,000 most common 8 min read

헌신적이다

heonsinjeogida Top 7,000

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips 헌신적이다 in 30 Seconds

Explanation 헌신적이다 in your Level:

At the A1 level, you can think of 헌신적이다 as a very 'big' word for 'good' or 'hardworking.' In simple terms, it describes someone who helps others a lot and doesn't think about themselves. You might use it to talk about your mom or a very nice teacher. Even if you don't use the word yourself yet, you should recognize it when you hear it in stories about heroes. It is like saying someone is 'super dedicated.' For example, '우리 선생님은 헌신적이에요' means 'My teacher is very dedicated.' At this stage, focus on the basic meaning: doing a lot for someone else because you care about them.

At the A2 level, you should start to understand how to use 헌신적이다 to describe people's jobs and roles. You can use it to describe a '헌신적인 의사' (devoted doctor) or a '헌신적인 어머니' (devoted mother). You should also learn the adverb form, 헌신적으로, to describe how someone does something. For instance, '그는 헌신적으로 일해요' (He works devotedly). At this level, you can begin to see the difference between just 'working hard' (열심히) and 'working with devotion' (헌신적으로). It's a great word to use when you want to write a thank-you note or a short paragraph about someone you admire.

At the B1 level, you can use 헌신적이다 in more complex social contexts. You might use it to discuss volunteering (봉사) or community service. You should be able to explain *why* someone is 헌신적이다 using grammar like ~기 때문에 (because) or ~을 위해 (for the sake of). For example, '그는 나라를 위해 헌신적인 삶을 살았습니다' (He lived a devoted life for his country). You should also be able to distinguish it from similar words like 성실하다 (diligent) and recognize that 헌신적이다 implies a higher level of personal sacrifice. This word is very useful for B1-level topics like 'Role Models' or 'Social Issues.'

At the B2 level, you should be comfortable using 헌신적이다 in formal writing and debates. You can use it to describe historical figures, political leaders, or corporate ethics. You should understand the Hanja roots (獻身) and how they contribute to the word's weight. At this level, you can also use the noun form '헌신' (devotion) in various idioms and collocations, such as '헌신을 다하다' (to give one's all). You will encounter this word in news articles and literature, and you should be able to discuss the cultural importance of 'devotion' in Korean society, especially regarding family and professional loyalty.

At the C1 level, you can appreciate the nuanced emotional and philosophical connotations of 헌신적이다. You can use it to analyze characters in literature or discuss the 'shadow side' of extreme devotion (such as burning out or neglecting one's own health). You should be able to use the word in academic or professional settings to describe organizational commitment or humanitarian efforts. Your usage should reflect an understanding of the register—knowing that this word carries a sense of nobility and deep respect. You can also use it in more abstract ways, like being 헌신적 to an ideal or a scientific discovery.

At the C2 level, you have a native-like grasp of 헌신적이다. You can use it with precision in any context, from poetic descriptions to legal or historical analysis. You understand how it contrasts with terms like '맹목적' (blind devotion) or '희생적' (sacrificial) in subtle ways. You can use the word to critique or praise complex human behaviors. In a professional context, you might use it to describe a leader's '헌신적인 리더십' (devoted leadership) and how it impacts organizational culture. You are also aware of the word's frequency in various genres and can adapt your tone accordingly, using it to evoke specific emotions in your audience.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

헌신적이다 in 30 Seconds

A high-level adjective meaning 'devoted' or 'self-sacrificing'.
Commonly used for parents, teachers, doctors, and volunteers.
Implies putting others' needs before one's own comfort.
Derived from Hanja meaning 'to offer one's body'.

The Korean adjective 헌신적이다 (Heonsinjeogida) is a profound term that describes a level of commitment that goes far beyond mere diligence or hard work. Rooted in Hanja, the word literally translates to 'offering one's body' (獻身 - Heonsin) to a cause, person, or organization. When you describe someone as 헌신적이다, you are noting their selflessness and their willingness to sacrifice personal comfort, time, or resources for the benefit of something greater than themselves. This word is frequently used in contexts involving parental love, medical professionals, social activists, and deeply committed employees. It carries a heavy emotional weight, implying a noble and virtuous character.

Etymological Nuance: The character 獻 (Heon) means to present or offer to a superior, while 身 (Sin) refers to the physical self. Combining these with the suffix 的 (Jeok), which turns nouns into adjectives, and the copula 이다 (Ida), the word suggests a state of being where one's entire existence is offered up as a contribution.
Social Context: In Korean society, which historically values collective harmony and Confucian filial piety, being 헌신적이다 is one of the highest compliments. It is often used to describe 'K-Mothers' who sacrifice everything for their children's education and well-being.

우리 어머니는 평생 가족을 위해 헌신적인 삶을 사셨습니다. (My mother lived a devoted life for our family her whole life.)

While 'dedicated' is a common translation, 'devoted' or 'self-sacrificing' often captures the nuance better. A dedicated worker might stay late to finish a project for a promotion, but a 헌신적 worker stays late because they genuinely care about the company's mission or their colleagues' success, often without expecting a direct reward. It is the difference between professional excellence and moral altruism. You will hear this word in eulogies, documentaries about humanitarian aid workers, and in heartfelt expressions of gratitude between partners or family members.

그 의사는 가난한 환자들을 위해 헌신적으로 봉사했습니다. (That doctor served the poor patients devotedly.)

Common Collocations: 헌신적인 사랑 (Devoted love), 헌신적인 노력 (Dedicated effort), 헌신적인 태도 (Selfless attitude).

In modern professional settings, while '열심히 하다' (to work hard) is more common for daily tasks, '헌신적이다' is reserved for annual performance reviews or retirement speeches to highlight a career defined by loyalty and sacrifice. It is a word that bridges the gap between personal character and public action.

Grammatically, 헌신적이다 functions as a descriptive verb (adjective) in Korean. Because it ends in '-적이다', it follows a specific pattern of conjugation and usage that is very common for words of Sino-Korean origin. Understanding how to transform this root into various sentence parts is key to sounding natural.

As a Predicate: When ending a sentence, you use the form 헌신적이다. In polite speech, this becomes 헌신적이에요 (informal polite) or 헌신적입니다 (formal polite). Example: '그녀는 정말 헌신적이에요' (She is truly devoted).
As a Modifier: To describe a noun, change the ending to 헌신적인. This is the most common form you will encounter. Example: '헌신적인 교사' (A devoted teacher).
As an Adverb: To describe how an action is performed, use 헌신적으로. Example: '그는 헌신적으로 일합니다' (He works devotedly).

그 소방관은 시민들의 생명을 구하기 위해 헌신적으로 뛰어들었습니다. (The firefighter jumped in devotedly to save the citizens' lives.)

When using this word, the particle ~에 is often used to indicate the object of devotion. For example, '국가에 헌신적이다' (to be devoted to the nation) or '아이들에게 헌신적이다' (to be devoted to the children). This structure helps clarify exactly what the person is sacrificing themselves for. In more complex sentences, you might see it paired with conditional or causal connectors like '헌신적이라서' (because they are devoted) or '헌신적이지만' (although they are devoted).

팀원들의 헌신적인 협조 덕분에 프로젝트를 마칠 수 있었습니다. (Thanks to the devoted cooperation of the team members, we were able to finish the project.)

It is important to note that 헌신적이다 is rarely used to describe oneself. In Korean culture, praising oneself as 'self-sacrificing' would be seen as arrogant or lacking humility. Instead, it is almost exclusively used to praise others. If you want to express your own commitment, you might use more humble terms like '최선을 다하겠습니다' (I will do my best).

The word 헌신적이다 is a staple of Korean media, literature, and formal oratory. While you might not hear it in a casual conversation about what to eat for lunch, it appears frequently in moments of high emotional or professional significance. It is a 'prestige' word that elevates the tone of the conversation.

News and Documentaries: Journalists use this word to describe 'hidden heroes' (숨은 영웅). You will hear it in reports about volunteers in disaster zones, nurses working through pandemics, or environmentalists fighting to save a species. It frames their work as a noble sacrifice rather than just a job.
K-Dramas and Movies: In medical or legal dramas, a protagonist is often described as 헌신적 to contrast them with corrupt or selfish antagonists. In family dramas, the 'long-suffering' mother or father figure is frequently characterized this way by their grown children in tearful scenes of realization.

드라마 속 주인공은 환자들을 위해 항상 헌신적인 모습을 보여줍니다. (The protagonist in the drama always shows a devoted side for the patients.)

In corporate culture, during 'Insa-go-gwa' (performance reviews) or 'Song-nyeon-hoe' (year-end parties), managers use this word to recognize employees who went above and beyond. It is a way to acknowledge that the employee's contribution wasn't just about the hours clocked, but about their heart and loyalty to the company's growth.

그는 회사의 위기 상황에서 누구보다 헌신적으로 대처했습니다. (He handled the company's crisis situation more devotedly than anyone else.)

Lastly, you will find this word in religious contexts. Whether in a sermon or a community gathering, '헌신' is a core value representing one's commitment to faith or the congregation. It describes the act of serving others as a spiritual practice. Understanding this word helps you tap into the 'Jeong' (affection/attachment) and 'Ui' (loyalty/righteousness) that are central to Korean interpersonal dynamics.

While 헌신적이다 is a powerful word, learners often misuse it by applying it to situations that are too casual or by confusing it with similar-sounding or similar-meaning words. Here are the most frequent pitfalls to avoid.

Mistake 1: Overusing it for 'Hardworking': Learners often use 헌신적이다 when they really mean '열심히 하다' (to work hard) or '성실하다' (to be diligent). If a student studies hard for an exam, they are '열심히 공부하는 것' (studying hard), not '헌신적' (devoted). 헌신적 implies a sacrifice for others or a higher cause, not just personal gain.
Mistake 2: Confusing with '친절하다' (Kind): A kind person might help you carry your bags, but a 헌신적 person might spend their entire weekend helping you move without being asked. Kindness is a personality trait; devotion is a sustained commitment involving sacrifice.

❌ 저는 제 숙제에 헌신적이에요. (I am devoted to my homework - Sounds weirdly dramatic.)
✅ 저는 제 숙제를 열심히 해요. (I do my homework hard.)

Another mistake is the confusion between 헌신적이다 and '충성스럽다' (loyal). While they overlap, '충성스럽다' is often used for dogs, soldiers, or subjects to a king—it implies a hierarchy. 헌신적이다 is more about the act of giving oneself and can exist between equals, like friends or partners. Finally, ensure you don't confuse it with '열성적이다' (enthusiastic/passionate). An enthusiastic fan is '열성적', but a fan who spends all their money and time to support an idol's charity might be described as '헌신적'.

그는 취미 생활에 열성적이지, 헌신적인 것은 아닙니다. (He is enthusiastic about his hobbies, not devoted/self-sacrificing.)

To truly master 헌신적이다, you must understand its neighbors in the Korean vocabulary. Depending on the level of sacrifice and the target of the action, other words might be more appropriate.

희생적이다 (Huisaengjeogida) - Sacrificial: This is the closest synonym. While 헌신적 focus on the 'giving' part, 희생적 emphasizes the 'loss' or 'sacrifice' the person endures. It is often used for parents who give up their own dreams for their children.
성실하다 (Seongsilhada) - Diligent/Sincere: This describes a person who is steady, honest, and hardworking. It doesn't necessarily imply the grand self-sacrifice of 헌신적이다. It is a safer, more common compliment for coworkers.
열성적이다 (Yeolseongjeogida) - Enthusiastic/Passionate: Focuses on the energy and heat (열 - fire) a person puts into something. You can be an '열성적인 팬' (enthusiastic fan) without being '헌신적인'.

그녀는 헌신적일 뿐만 아니라 매우 성실한 사원입니다. (She is not only devoted but also a very diligent employee.)

When choosing between these, consider the 'cost' to the person. If they are just doing a great job, use 성실하다. If they are doing it with high energy, use 열성적이다. If they are losing sleep, money, or personal time to help others, 헌신적이다 is the perfect fit. For extreme cases where someone gives up their life or a major part of their identity, 희생적이다 is the most powerful choice.

In formal writing, you might also see 지극하다 (Jigeukhada), which means 'extreme' or 'devoted' in the context of care or filial piety (e.g., 효성이 지극하다 - to be extremely filial). This is a more literary and traditional term than 헌신적이다.

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

The character 獻 (Heon) originally depicted a vessel being offered in a ritual. It implies that being 헌신적 is almost a sacred or ritualistic act of giving.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /hʌn.ɕin.dʑʌk.i.da/

US /hʌn.ʃin.dʒʌk.i.da/

In Korean, stress is generally even, but a slight emphasis on the first syllable '헌' (Heon) can occur in emphatic speech.

Rhymes With

열정적이다 (Yeoljeongjeogida) 적극적이다 (Jeokgeukjeogida) 낙천적이다 (Nakcheonjeogida) 내성적이다 (Naeseongjeogida) 도전적이다 (Dojeonjeogida) 비판적이다 (Bipanjeogida) 창의적이다 (Changijeogida) 합리적이다 (Hamnijeogida)

Common Errors

Pronouncing '신' (Sin) like the English word 'sin' (it should be 'sheen').
Making the 'eo' sound too much like 'o' or 'u'.
Forgetting the 'k' batchim in '적' (Jeok) before the 'i' sound.
Over-aspirating the 'd' in 'da'.
Pronouncing 'Heon' as 'Hoon'.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 3/5

Common in news and literature, easy to recognize with Hanja knowledge.

Writing 4/5

Requires understanding of the -적이다 suffix and proper context.

Speaking 4/5

Pronunciation of '헌신' and '적' needs to be clear to sound natural.

Listening 3/5

Frequently heard in serious dramas and documentaries.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

사랑 (Love) 열심히 (Hard) 일 (Work) 사람 (Person) 이다 (To be)

Learn Next

희생하다 (To sacrifice) 공헌하다 (To contribute) 사명감 (Sense of mission) 봉사활동 (Volunteer activity) 이타주의 (Altruism)

Advanced

숭고하다 (To be noble) 거룩하다 (To be holy) 살신성인 (Sacrificing oneself for a righteous cause)

Grammar to Know

Noun + -적 (Sino-Korean suffix)

사회적, 경제적, 헌신적

Adjective + -이다 (To be)

학생이다, 헌신적이다

Adjective ending -ㄴ (Noun modifier)

헌신적인 사람

Adverb ending -으로 (Adverbializer)

헌신적으로 일하다

Particle ~에 (Object of emotion/attitude)

일이 헌신적이다

Examples by Level

우리 엄마는 정말 헌신적이에요.

My mom is really devoted.

Simple polite ending -이에요.

그 선생님은 헌신적인 분입니다.

That teacher is a devoted person.

Modifier form 헌신적인 + honorific noun 분.

헌신적인 사랑이 필요해요.

Devoted love is needed.

Noun phrase with 헌신적인.

그는 친구에게 헌신적입니다.

He is devoted to his friend.

Formal polite ending -입니다.

강아지는 주인에게 헌신적이에요.

The dog is devoted to its owner.

Subject + Particle ~에게 (to/towards).

그녀의 태도는 매우 헌신적이다.

Her attitude is very devoted.

Dictionary form used in written style.

우리는 헌신적인 노력을 합니다.

We make a devoted effort.

Object marker ~을/를 used with 노력.

그 의사는 참 헌신적이에요.

That doctor is truly devoted.

Adverb '참' (truly) adding emphasis.

그는 가난한 사람들을 위해 헌신적으로 일해요.

He works devotedly for the poor.

Adverb form 헌신적으로.

헌신적인 간호사 덕분에 병이 나았어요.

I got better thanks to the devoted nurse.

Noun + 덕분에 (thanks to).

그녀는 아이들에게 매우 헌신적이에요.

She is very devoted to the children.

Target particle ~에게.

우리 아버지는 헌신적인 가장이십니다.

My father is a devoted breadwinner.

Honorific suffix -(이)십니다.

그는 자신의 일에 헌신적인 사람이다.

He is a person devoted to his work.

Possessive '자신의' (his own).

헌신적인 도움을 주셔서 감사합니다.

Thank you for giving your devoted help.

Past tense verb + -어 주셔서 (because you gave).

그 소방관은 헌신적인 활동을 했습니다.

The firefighter performed devoted activities.

Action noun + -을 했습니다.

그녀는 헌신적인 삶을 살고 싶어 해요.

She wants to live a devoted life.

~고 싶어 하다 (to want to - third person).

그는 평생을 환경 보호에 헌신적으로 바쳤다.

He devoted his whole life to environmental protection.

Object '평생' (whole life) + verb 바치다 (to dedicate).

팀원들의 헌신적인 협조가 없었다면 실패했을 거예요.

If there hadn't been the team members' devoted cooperation, we would have failed.

Conditional ~었다면 (if... had).

그 단체는 헌신적인 봉사자들로 운영됩니다.

The organization is run by devoted volunteers.

Passive verb 운영되다 (to be operated).

헌신적인 태도는 리더에게 꼭 필요한 덕목입니다.

A devoted attitude is a necessary virtue for a leader.

Topic marker ~은/는 used for definitions.

그녀는 남편의 병간호를 헌신적으로 해냈다.

She devotedly took care of her sick husband.

Compound verb 해내다 (to manage to do).

그의 헌신적인 노력은 마침내 결실을 맺었다.

His devoted efforts finally bore fruit.

Idiom 결실을 맺다 (to bear fruit).

부모님의 헌신적인 희생을 잊어서는 안 됩니다.

We must not forget our parents' devoted sacrifices.

~어서는 안 되다 (must not).

그는 사회 정의를 위해 헌신적인 길을 택했다.

He chose a devoted path for social justice.

Verb 택하다 (to choose).

그 기업은 지역 사회에 헌신적인 공헌을 하고 있다.

That corporation is making a devoted contribution to the local community.

Progressive form ~고 있다.

그의 헌신적인 연구 덕분에 백신이 개발되었다.

Thanks to his devoted research, a vaccine was developed.

Passive verb 개발되었다.

헌신적인 삶을 사는 것은 말처럼 쉽지 않다.

Living a devoted life is not as easy as it sounds.

Noun clause ~는 것 + comparison ~처럼.

그 정치인은 국민들에게 헌신적인 봉사를 약속했다.

The politician promised devoted service to the citizens.

Verb 약속하다 (to promise).

헌신적인 동료들과 함께 일하는 것은 행운입니다.

It is a stroke of luck to work with devoted colleagues.

Subject clause ~는 것은 + noun 행운.

그녀의 헌신적인 교육 철학은 많은 이들에게 감동을 주었다.

Her devoted educational philosophy moved many people.

Idiom 감동을 주다 (to give emotion/move someone).

전쟁 중에도 그는 환자들을 헌신적으로 돌보았다.

Even during the war, he devotedly cared for the patients.

Time expression ~ 중에도 (even during).

그는 예술에 대한 헌신적인 열정을 가지고 있다.

He has a devoted passion for art.

Prepositional phrase ~에 대한 (about/for).

그 학자는 진리 탐구에 헌신적인 생애를 보냈다.

The scholar spent a devoted life in the pursuit of truth.

Collocation 생애를 보내다 (to spend a lifetime).

국가 발전을 위한 선구자들의 헌신적인 노고를 치하했다.

They praised the devoted hard work of the pioneers for national development.

Formal verb 치하하다 (to praise/commend).

헌신적인 행동 뒤에는 말로 다 할 수 없는 고통이 따르기도 한다.

Behind devoted actions, unspeakable pain sometimes follows.

~기도 한다 (sometimes also...).

그녀는 소외된 이웃을 위해 헌신적인 삶을 실천하고 있다.

She is practicing a devoted life for marginalized neighbors.

Verb 실천하다 (to put into practice).

그의 헌신적인 리더십이 조직의 위기를 극복하는 원동력이 되었다.

His devoted leadership became the driving force in overcoming the organization's crisis.

Noun 원동력 (driving force).

무조건적이고 헌신적인 사랑은 때로 부담이 될 수도 있다.

Unconditional and devoted love can sometimes be a burden.

Conjunction ~고 (and) + possibility ~을 수도 있다.

그는 종교적 신념에 따라 헌신적인 사역을 이어갔다.

He continued his devoted ministry according to his religious beliefs.

Pattern ~에 따라 (according to).

헌신적인 기여를 인정받아 명예 훈장을 수여받았다.

He was awarded a medal of honor in recognition of his devoted contribution.

Passive/Received verb 수여받다.

숭고한 헌신적 정신은 시대를 초월하여 울림을 준다.

A noble, devoted spirit resonates across eras.

Pattern ~을 초월하여 (transcending).

그의 헌신적인 투쟁은 민주주의의 기틀을 마련하는 계기가 되었다.

His devoted struggle became the opportunity to lay the foundation of democracy.

Noun 기틀 (foundation/base).

개인의 헌신적인 희생이 집단의 이익을 위해 강요되어서는 안 된다.

An individual's devoted sacrifice must not be coerced for the benefit of the group.

Passive voice 강요되다 (to be coerced).

그 예술가의 헌신적인 창작 활동은 예술사의 한 페이지를 장식했다.

The artist's devoted creative activity decorated a page in art history.

Metaphorical expression 한 페이지를 장식하다.

헌신적인 삶의 궤적을 따라가다 보면 진정한 인간미를 느낄 수 있다.

Following the trajectory of a devoted life allows one to feel true humanity.

Noun 궤적 (trajectory/trace).

그는 자신의 학문적 성과를 후학 양성에 헌신적으로 쏟아부었다.

He devotedly poured his academic achievements into nurturing future scholars.

Compound verb 쏟아붓다 (to pour in).

비영리 단체의 헌신적인 행보는 국제 사회의 귀감이 되고 있다.

The devoted steps of the non-profit organization are becoming a model for the international community.

Noun 귀감 (model/exemplar).

헌신적인 동기 부여가 결여된 노동은 영혼 없는 기계적 반복에 불과하다.

Labor lacking devoted motivation is nothing more than soul-less mechanical repetition.

Pattern ~에 불과하다 (nothing more than).

Common Collocations

헌신적인 사랑

헌신적인 노력

헌신적인 삶

헌신적인 태도

헌신적인 봉사

헌신적인 지지

헌신적인 간호

헌신적인 투쟁

헌신적인 협조

헌신적인 리더십

Common Phrases

헌신을 다하다

— To give one's full devotion to something.

그는 교육에 헌신을 다하고 있습니다.

몸을 아끼지 않다

— To not spare one's body; to work devotedly without caring for one's health.

그는 몸을 아끼지 않고 헌신적으로 일했다.

뼈를 묻다

— Literally 'to bury one's bones'; to stay devoted to a place or job until the end.

이 회사에 뼈를 묻겠다는 각오로 일하겠습니다.

발 벗고 나서다

— To step forward enthusiastically/devotedly to help.

그녀는 이웃 돕기에 발 벗고 나섰다.

온 힘을 쏟다

— To pour all one's strength into something.

연구에 온 힘을 쏟아 헌신했습니다.

자기희생적이다

— Being self-sacrificial (often used alongside 헌신적).

그의 태도는 매우 자기희생적이다.

정성을 다하다

— To do something with all one's heart.

손님들에게 정성을 다해 헌신합니다.

일편단심

— Single-hearted devotion (often used in romance).

그녀를 향한 그의 마음은 일편단심이다.

사명감을 갖다

— To have a sense of mission (which leads to being 헌신적).

의사로서 사명감을 가지고 헌신합니다.

공헌하다

— To contribute (the result of being 헌신적).

그는 인류 발전에 크게 공헌했다.

Often Confused With

헌신적이다 vs 열심히

Means 'hardworking' for oneself or general tasks. 헌신적 implies sacrifice for others.

헌신적이다 vs 친절하다

Means 'kind'. You can be kind without making the life-altering sacrifices implied by 헌신적.

헌신적이다 vs 성실하다

Means 'diligent'. This is about consistency and honesty, whereas 헌신적 is about deep devotion.

Idioms & Expressions

"간담을 서늘하게 하다"

— While not directly 'devotion', extreme devotion in dangerous situations might do this to observers (to make one's liver/gallbladder cold with fear/awe).

그의 헌신적인 구조 활동은 보는 이들의 간담을 서늘하게 했다.

Literary

"살을 깎는 노력"

— Effort so devoted it feels like carving one's own flesh.

살을 깎는 노력으로 헌신했다.

Metaphorical

"심혈을 기울이다"

— To pour one's heart and blood into something.

그는 작품에 심혈을 기울여 헌신했다.

Formal

"몸과 마음을 바치다"

— To dedicate body and soul.

조국에 몸과 마음을 바쳐 헌신했다.

Neutral

"불철주야"

— Day and night (working devotedly without sleep).

그는 불철주야 연구에 헌신했다.

Formal

"노심초사"

— Worrying and caring devotedly (often for parents).

어머니는 자식 걱정에 노심초사하며 헌신하셨다.

Literary

"결초보은"

— Repaying a kindness even after death (ultimate devotion).

은혜를 갚기 위해 결초보은의 자세로 헌신하겠다.

Hanja Idiom

"지성이면 감천"

— If one's sincerity/devotion is extreme, even heaven is moved.

지성이면 감천이라더니 그의 헌신이 통했다.

Proverb

"분골쇄신"

— Crushing one's bones and grinding one's body (total devotion/sacrifice).

회사를 위해 분골쇄신하며 헌신하겠습니다.

Hanja Idiom

"아낌없이 주다"

— To give without stinting (like the Giving Tree).

그녀는 아이들에게 아낌없이 주는 헌신적인 교사다.

Neutral

Easily Confused

헌신적이다 vs 희생적이다

Both imply giving up something for others.

희생적 focuses more on what is lost (sacrifice), while 헌신적 focuses on the act of giving (devotion).

희생적인 죽음 (sacrificial death) vs 헌신적인 간호 (devoted nursing).

헌신적이다 vs 열성적이다

Both involve high effort.

열성적 is about passion and heat; you can be an enthusiastic fan without sacrificing your life. 헌신적 is about commitment.

열성적인 응원 (enthusiastic cheering).

헌신적이다 vs 충성스럽다

Both involve loyalty.

충성스럽다 is hierarchical (soldier to country, dog to master). 헌신적 is more humanitarian and personal.

충성스러운 개 (loyal dog).

헌신적이다 vs 정성스럽다

Both involve 'heart'.

정성스럽다 is often used for physical things like gifts or food preparation. 헌신적 is for life-long attitudes or major actions.

정성스러운 식사 (a meal prepared with heart).

헌신적이다 vs 지극하다

Both mean 'devoted'.

지극하다 is more traditional and literary, often used with 'filial piety' (효성).

효성이 지극하다 (to be extremely filial).

Sentence Patterns

[Subject]은/는 헌신적이에요.

우리 엄마는 헌신적이에요.

헌신적인 [Noun]이에요.

그분은 헌신적인 의사예요.

[Target]에 헌신적이다.

그는 봉사 활동에 헌신적이다.

헌신적으로 [Verb].

그녀는 헌신적으로 아이들을 돌봐요.

[Noun]을/를 위해 헌신하다.

나라를 위해 헌신하는 사람입니다.

헌신적인 노력을 기울이다.

그는 연구에 헌신적인 노력을 기울였다.

헌신적인 삶을 실천하다.

그녀는 평생 헌신적인 삶을 실천했다.

헌신적 정신을 기리다.

우리는 그의 헌신적 정신을 기려야 합니다.

Word Family

Nouns

헌신 (Devotion/Sacrifice)

헌신자 (Devotee/One who is devoted)

Verbs

헌신하다 (To devote/To sacrifice oneself)

Adjectives

헌신적 (Devoted - noun form used as attr.)

희생 (Sacrifice)

봉사 (Service)

기여 (Contribution)

충성 (Loyalty)

사랑 (Love)

How to Use It

frequency

Medium-High in formal/emotional contexts; Low in casual daily chatter.

Common Mistakes

Using it for yourself in a boastful way. → Describe your actions instead.
Korean culture values humility; calling yourself 'devoted' sounds arrogant.
Confusing 'Heonsin' with 'Jeonsin' (whole body). → Use 'Heonsin' for devotion.
They sound similar but 'Jeonsin' is a medical/physical term.
Using it for a casual hobby. → Use '열정적이다' (passionate).
헌신적이다 is too heavy for something like playing video games.
Forgetting the 'i' in -적이다. → 헌신적이다 (not 헌신적다).
-적 is a noun-forming suffix that needs '이다' to become an adjective.
Using 'Heonsin' for inanimate objects. → Only use for people or their actions.
A machine cannot be 헌신적; only a human heart can.

Tips

Use for Role Models

This is the best word to describe heroes, saints, or people who inspire you with their selflessness.

Check the Particle

Always remember to use ~에 (to/in) to show what the person is devoted to (e.g., 일에 헌신적이다).

Respect the Weight

Koreans value 헌신 highly. Using this word shows you understand the depth of their social values.

Pair with Adverbs

Words like '진심으로' (sincerely) or '정말' (really) go well with 헌신적이다.

Pronounce the 'Sin'

Make sure '신' sounds like 'sheen' to avoid sounding like you're saying a different word.

Find Examples

Look for news articles with '헌신' in the title to see how it's used in real-world praising.

Medical Context

This is the most common word to describe good doctors and nurses in Korea.

Link to 'Heon-hyeol'

Remembering 'Heon-hyeol' (blood donation) helps you remember 'Heon' (to offer).

Gratitude

Use this word when giving a formal thank-you speech to a mentor.

Devotion vs. Loyalty

Remember: Devotion is about the heart; Loyalty is about the duty.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of 'Heon' as 'Hand' and 'Sin' as 'Self'. You are handing your self over to help others.

Visual Association

Imagine a person standing in the rain holding an umbrella over someone else, while they themselves get soaked. That is 헌신적.

Word Web

Mother Doctor Firefighter Sacrifice No Sleep Helping Love Loyalty

Challenge

Try to find one person in your life who is 헌신적이다 and write a three-sentence thank you note in Korean using the word.

Word Origin

Derived from the Hanja characters 獻 (Heon - to offer/present) and 身 (Sin - body).

Original meaning: The act of offering one's physical body or life to a higher power, king, or cause.

Sino-Korean (Hanja-eo).

Cultural Context

Be careful not to pressure others by calling them 헌신적, as it might imply they should continue to sacrifice themselves even if they are exhausted.

In English, 'dedicated' can be used for hobbies (dedicated gamer), but in Korean, 헌신적 is rarely used for hobbies. It is much more serious.

Lee Tae-seok (The priest of Schweitzer in Sudan) Mother Teresa (often described as 헌신적인 분) Admiral Yi Sun-sin (national hero of 헌신)

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Family

부모님의 헌신
자식을 향한 헌신
헌신적인 어머니
가족을 위해 헌신하다

Workplace

회사를 위한 헌신
헌신적인 사원
업무에 헌신적이다
팀을 위해 헌신적으로 일하다

Medical

환자에게 헌신적이다
헌신적인 의료진
밤낮없이 헌신하다
의료 봉사에 헌신적이다

Religion

신앙적 헌신
교회에 헌신하다
헌신적인 삶을 살다
이웃에게 헌신하다

Patriotism

나라에 헌신하다
국가적인 헌신
헌신적인 애국심
조국을 위한 헌신

Conversation Starters

"주변에 정말 헌신적인 사람이 있나요?"

"부모님이 당신을 위해 얼마나 헌신적이었나요?"

"직장 동료 중에 누가 가장 헌신적이라고 생각하세요?"

"헌신적인 삶과 개인의 행복 중 무엇이 더 중요할까요?"

"어떤 상황에서 사람이 가장 헌신적이 될 수 있을까요?"

Journal Prompts

내가 누군가를 위해 헌신적으로 행동했던 경험에 대해 써보세요.

헌신적인 태도가 사회에 왜 필요한지 당신의 생각을 적어보세요.

미래에 어떤 분야에서 헌신적인 사람이 되고 싶은지 계획해 보세요.

내가 존경하는 헌신적인 인물에 대해 소개해 보세요.

헌신과 희생의 차이점은 무엇이라고 생각하는지 분석해 보세요.

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

It is generally not used for hobbies. For hobbies, use '열정적이다' (passionate) or '진심이다' (to be serious about). 헌신적이다 implies a noble sacrifice that doesn't fit casual leisure.

Yes, it is almost always used as a very high compliment. It suggests a person has a beautiful, selfless heart.

헌신적 is the adjective (devoted), while 헌신 is the noun (devotion). You use 헌신적 to describe a person, and 헌신 to describe the act itself.

Yes, if they are incredibly self-sacrificing and supportive, you can say '헌신적인 남자친구'. However, make sure it doesn't sound like they are a servant; it should convey deep love.

It is better to describe your '헌신적인 노력' (devoted efforts) rather than calling yourself '헌신적인 사람'. Let your actions speak for your character.

In modern psychological contexts, someone might say '너무 헌신적이라서 힘들겠다' (It must be hard because you are too devoted), implying a lack of self-care, but the word itself remains noble.

Use the adverb form: 헌신적으로 (Heon-sin-jeok-eu-ro).

You might see it in lyrics where a singer promises '헌신적인 사랑' (devoted love) to their partner or fans.

獻 (Heon - offer) and 身 (Sin - body). It literally means offering one's body.

Usually, '충성스럽다' (loyal) is more common for dogs, but if a dog saves someone's life, you could call its act '헌신적'.