장인어른 in 30 Seconds
- Wife's father, a respectful term for son-in-law.
- Korean kinship term: '장인어른' (Jang-in-eo-reun) means wife's father.
- Used by a man to refer to his wife's father, showing respect.
- Essential for understanding Korean family relationships and etiquette.
- Korean Word
- 장인어른
- Pronunciation
- Jang-in-eo-reun
- Part of Speech
- Noun
- CEFR Level
- A2
- English Definition
- Father-in-law (specifically, the wife's father).
In Korean culture, family relationships are very important, and specific terms are used to address in-laws. The term 장인어른 is used by a person to refer to their wife's father. This term is a sign of respect and acknowledges the familial bond. It's not just a casual term; it carries a sense of honor and familial connection. When a man marries a woman, he gains a father-in-law, and that person is called 장인어른. Similarly, a woman would refer to her husband's father using a different term. This specificity highlights the detailed system of kinship terms in Korean. Understanding these terms is crucial for navigating social interactions and showing proper respect within Korean families. For instance, if someone is talking about their wife's father, they would use 장인어른. It's a term that signifies a formal and respectful relationship within the extended family structure. This word is particularly relevant in contexts like wedding ceremonies, family gatherings, or discussions about one's spouse's family. The term implies a significant social and emotional connection. The use of 장인어른 underscores the importance placed on respecting one's elders and in-laws in Korean society. It's a key term for anyone learning about Korean family dynamics and social etiquette. The word itself is composed of '장인' (father-in-law, specifically wife's father) and '어른' (elder, adult, person of respect). The addition of '어른' emphasizes the seniority and respected status of the wife's father. This term is used by the son-in-law to address or refer to his wife's father. It is a term of endearment and respect, reflecting the deep value placed on family ties in Korean culture. Therefore, when you hear or see 장인어른, you should immediately understand it refers to the wife's father and implies a respectful relationship.
- Cultural Significance
- In Korean society, the relationship with one's in-laws is highly valued. Using the correct honorific terms, like 장인어른, is a fundamental aspect of showing respect and maintaining familial harmony. It signifies the integration into a new family and the acknowledgment of elders' status.
- Usage Context
- This term is commonly used by a son-in-law when speaking to his wife, friends, or colleagues about his wife's father. It can also be used when directly addressing him, though in such cases, honorifics like '아버님' (father) might be used more frequently depending on the intimacy of the relationship. However, when referring to him in the third person, 장인어른 is the standard and respectful term.
- Etymology Insight
- The term is a combination of '장인' (Jang-in), which specifically means wife's father, and '어른' (eo-reun), meaning elder or adult. The inclusion of '어른' elevates the term, emphasizing the respect due to the elder member of the family. This dual component highlights both the specific familial role and the societal value placed on elders.
- Basic Sentence Structure
- Subject + Topic Marker + 장인어른 + Verb/Adjective.
- Example 1: Referring to him
- 제 아내가 어제 장인어른을 만났어요. (My wife met my father-in-law yesterday.)
- Example 2: Talking about his actions
- 장인어른께서 저에게 좋은 조언을 많이 해주셨습니다. (My father-in-law gave me a lot of good advice.)
- Example 3: Describing a situation
- 이번 주말에 장인어른 댁에 방문할 예정입니다. (I plan to visit my father-in-law's house this weekend.)
- Example 4: Expressing feelings
- 저는 장인어른을 정말 존경합니다. (I truly respect my father-in-law.)
When discussing family matters, the term 장인어른 is essential for a son-in-law. For instance, he might say, 'My wife's father is coming to visit,' which in Korean would be, '제 아내의 아버지가 방문하실 거예요,' or more naturally using the specific term, '제 장인어른께서 방문하실 거예요.' The latter is more common and respectful when talking about one's wife's father. Another common scenario is when a son-in-law is asked about his wife's family. He might reply, 'I spoke with my 장인어른 this morning,' which translates to '오늘 아침에 장인어른과 이야기했어요.' This demonstrates the direct application of the term in everyday conversation. Furthermore, when planning events or discussing family gatherings, the term 장인어른 will frequently appear. For example, 'We need to prepare a gift for my 장인어른' would be, '장인어른을 위한 선물을 준비해야 해요.' This shows how the term is integrated into planning and communication within the family context. It's also used when expressing gratitude or seeking advice. A son-in-law might say, 'Thank you to my 장인어른 for his support,' which is '장인어른의 지지에 감사드립니다.' The consistent use of 장인어른 in these examples highlights its importance and ubiquity in the speech of a son-in-law when referring to his wife's father. It's a term that solidifies familial bonds and conveys a deep sense of respect and belonging.
- Family Gatherings
- During holidays like Chuseok (Korean Thanksgiving) or Seollal (Lunar New Year), sons-in-law will often refer to or speak about their wife's father using 장인어른. For example, 'My 장인어른 is telling stories about his youth.' (제 장인어른께서 젊은 시절 이야기를 하고 계세요.)
- Weddings
- At a wedding, the groom (son-in-law) might give a speech or thank the bride's father. He would use 장인어른 when referring to him, for example, 'I am deeply grateful to my 장인어른 for raising such a wonderful daughter.' (이렇게 훌륭한 따님을 키워주신 장인어른께 깊이 감사드립니다.)
- Conversations with Spouse
- A husband will often use 장인어른 when discussing his wife's father with his wife. 'Did you hear from your 장인어른 recently?' (최근에 장인어른께 소식 들었어?)
- Discussions with Friends/Colleagues
- When a man talks about his wife's father to his friends or colleagues, he will use 장인어른. 'My 장인어른 is a doctor.' (제 장인어른은 의사세요.)
- Formal Introductions
- In formal settings where a man might introduce his wife's family, he would use 장인어른. 'This is my wife's father, my 장인어른.' (이분은 제 아내의 아버지, 제 장인어른이십니다.)
Imagine a typical Korean family dinner. The son-in-law, let's call him Minjun, is talking to his wife, Sora. Sora might ask, 'Did you talk to my dad today?' Minjun would respond, 'Yes, I spoke with my 장인어른 this afternoon.' (응, 오늘 오후에 장인어른이랑 이야기했어.) This is a very common exchange. At a wedding reception, the groom might be thanking his new father-in-law. He could say, 'Thank you to my 장인어른 for welcoming me into your family.' (저를 가족으로 맞아주신 장인어른께 감사합니다.) This highlights the formal and respectful context. If Minjun is at a company dinner and his colleague asks about his family, Minjun might say, 'My wife's father, my 장인어른, is visiting us next week.' (제 장인어른께서 다음 주에 저희 집에 방문하실 거예요.) This shows how the term is used in more casual, yet still respectful, social settings. During holiday family gatherings, it's common to hear discussions about the elders. Someone might ask Minjun, 'How is your 장인어른 doing?' (사위, 장인어른께서는 어떻게 지내세요?) This demonstrates the term's prevalence in familial conversations. Even in more sensitive situations, like discussing family health, the term 장인어른 would be used. 'My 장인어른 had a check-up recently.' (제 장인어른께서 최근에 건강 검진을 받으셨어요.) These scenarios illustrate the widespread use of 장인어른 in various social and familial contexts in Korea.
- Confusing with Husband's Father
- The most common mistake is using 장인어른 to refer to the husband's father. The correct term for the husband's father is '시아버지' (siabeoji) or more commonly '시아버님' (siabeonim).
- Using it for Wife's Mother
- Another mistake is applying 장인어른 to the wife's mother. The correct term for the wife's mother is '장모' (jangmo) or '장모님' (jangmonim).
- Overuse of 'Father-in-law' in English
- While English uses 'father-in-law' generally, Korean distinguishes precisely. A learner might incorrectly assume 장인어른 is a universal term for any father-in-law, which is not the case.
- Using it for Own Father
- A fundamental error is using 장인어른 to refer to one's own biological father. The correct term for one's own father is '아버지' (abeoji) or '아빠' (appa).
- Incorrect Pronunciation
- Mispronouncing the word, for example, by stressing the wrong syllable or blending sounds incorrectly, can lead to confusion or sound unnatural. Proper pronunciation is key to being understood.
A common pitfall for learners is confusing 장인어른 with the term for the husband's father. Many beginners might hear 'father-in-law' in English and assume one Korean term covers all. However, Korean kinship terms are very specific. Using 장인어른 for your husband's father would be a significant social faux pas. The correct term for the husband's father is '시아버님'. Similarly, confusing it with the wife's mother is another mistake. The term for the wife's mother is '장모님'. These distinctions are crucial for showing respect and understanding family dynamics. Another mistake stems from direct translation. While English uses 'father-in-law' broadly, Korean differentiates based on whose parent it is. A learner might incorrectly use 장인어른 when referring to their own father, which is simply '아버지' or '아빠'. The word 장인어른 specifically denotes the wife's father from the perspective of the son-in-law. Lastly, pronunciation can be a hurdle. Forgetting the precise sounds or the flow of 'Jang-in-eo-reun' can lead to miscommunication. Practicing the pronunciation diligently will prevent this error.
- 장인어른 (Jang-in-eo-reun)
- Definition: Wife's father.
- 시아버지 (Si-a-beo-ji) / 시아버님 (Si-a-beo-nim)
- Definition: Husband's father. This is the direct counterpart to 장인어른. The '-님' ending in 시아버님 adds a higher level of respect.
- 장모 (Jang-mo) / 장모님 (Jang-mo-nim)
- Definition: Wife's mother. While 장인어른 refers to the father, 장모님 refers to the mother from the son-in-law's perspective.
- 시어머니 (Si-eo-meo-ni)
- Definition: Husband's mother. This is the counterpart to 장모님, referring to the mother from the daughter-in-law's perspective.
- 아버지 (A-beo-ji)
- Definition: Father (one's own father). This is the general term and should not be confused with in-law terms.
- 어른 (Eo-reun)
- Definition: Adult, elder, grown-up. This word is part of 장인어른 and signifies respect for age and status.
Understanding the nuances between these terms is key to mastering Korean kinship vocabulary. 장인어른 is exclusively for the wife's father, used by the son-in-law. Its direct counterpart for the husband's father is '시아버지' or the more polite '시아버님'. Think of it as a mirrored system: 장인어른 (wife's father) vs. 시아버님 (husband's father). Similarly, for mothers, '장모님' is the wife's mother (from son-in-law's view), while '시어머니' is the husband's mother (from daughter-in-law's view). The word '어른' (elder) is appended to '장인' to emphasize respect, making 장인어른 a term of high regard. It's crucial not to confuse these with the general term for one's own father, '아버지'. While 'father-in-law' in English is a single term, Korean breaks it down into specific roles within the extended family structure. For example, if a man refers to his own father, he uses '아버지'. If he refers to his wife's father, he uses 장인어른. If a woman refers to her husband's father, she uses '시아버님'. This precision in Korean kinship terms reflects the cultural emphasis on familial relationships and respect for elders. Therefore, when learning, it's best to memorize these pairs to avoid confusion.
How Formal Is It?
Fun Fact
The addition of '어른' (elder) to '장인' (wife's father) signifies a high level of respect and acknowledges the seniority of the wife's father. This distinguishes it from the simpler term '장인' which might be used in less formal contexts or compound words. It highlights the importance of respecting elders in Korean culture.
Pronunciation Guide
- Mispronouncing the 'eo' sound, often substituting it with 'o' or 'u'.
- Not distinguishing the 'j' sound correctly, sometimes pronouncing it closer to 'ch'.
- Failing to flap the 'r' sound, making it too hard or too soft.
- Incorrectly emphasizing syllables, leading to an unnatural rhythm.
Difficulty Rating
At an A2 CEFR level, recognizing and understanding <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>장인어른</mark> in simple sentences is achievable. Complex sentence structures or nuanced cultural contexts might require higher proficiency.
Producing sentences using <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>장인어른</mark> correctly requires understanding its specific meaning and context. Learners at A2 might struggle with perfect usage without practice.
Pronunciation and appropriate contextual usage are key for speaking. Learners need to practice the sounds and remember when and how to use the term respectfully.
Identifying <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>장인어른</mark> in spoken Korean depends on clear pronunciation and context. It's a distinct term, making it relatively easy to recognize once learned.
What to Learn Next
Prerequisites
Learn Next
Advanced
Grammar to Know
Honorifics in Korean
The suffix '-님' (nim) is often added to kinship terms like 장인어른 (making it 장인어른님) or to titles like '아버지' (making it 아버님) to show higher respect. 장인어른 already implies respect, but adding '-님' further elevates it.
Subject and Topic Markers
When 장인어른 is the subject, it often takes the subject particle '께서' (kkeseo), which is a more honorific form of '가' (ga). E.g., 장인어른께서 오셨습니다. (My father-in-law came - respectful).
Possessive Forms
To show possession, the particle '의' (ui) is attached. E.g., 장인어른의 집 (Jang-in-eo-reun-ui jip) - my father-in-law's house. This is often shortened to 장인어른 집.
Compound Nouns
장인어른 itself is a compound noun, combining '장인' (wife's father) and '어른' (elder). Understanding the components helps in grasping the full meaning.
Indirect Object Particle
When 장인어른 is the recipient of an action, the particle '께' (kke) is used, which is the honorific form of '에게' (ege). E.g., 장인어른께 감사드립니다. (I thank my father-in-law - respectful).
Examples by Level
아빠.
Dad.
Simple address term for father.
엄마, 안녕하세요.
Mom, hello.
Basic greeting with mother.
이것은 나의 아버지입니다.
This is my father.
Introducing one's father.
그녀는 나의 어머니입니다.
She is my mother.
Identifying one's mother.
가족 사진.
Family photo.
Simple noun phrase for family.
나의 아버지는 친절해요.
My father is kind.
Describing father's personality.
나의 어머니는 요리를 잘해요.
My mother cooks well.
Describing mother's skill.
우리는 가족이에요.
We are family.
Stating belonging to a family.
제 아내는 아버지께 전화를 드렸어요.
My wife called my father.
Using '아버지' for one's own father.
우리 집에는 두 명의 아들이 있습니다.
There are two sons in our house.
Using plural noun for sons.
그녀는 내 동생의 여자친구입니다.
She is my younger brother's girlfriend.
Describing a relationship.
나는 내 남동생과 같이 살아요.
I live with my younger brother.
Stating cohabitation with sibling.
이번 주말에 가족과 함께 시간을 보낼 거예요.
I will spend time with my family this weekend.
Future tense for family activity.
제 사촌은 미국에 살아요.
My cousin lives in America.
Referring to a cousin.
그녀는 나의 사촌 여동생입니다.
She is my cousin (female).
Identifying a female cousin.
제 아버지는 저에게 많은 것을 가르쳐주셨어요.
My father taught me many things.
Past tense verb for teaching.
제가 결혼하면, 제 아내의 아버지를 장인어른이라고 부를 것입니다.
When I get married, I will call my wife's father 'Jang-in-eo-reun'.
Future tense with conditional clause, introducing 장인어른.
우리 장인어른께서는 항상 따뜻한 미소를 지으신다.
My father-in-law always wears a warm smile.
Using 장인어른 in a descriptive sentence.
이번 명절에는 장인어른 댁에 방문할 계획입니다.
I plan to visit my father-in-law's house this holiday.
Using 장인어른 in context of a visit.
남편은 장인어른과 골프 치는 것을 좋아합니다.
My husband likes playing golf with his father-in-law.
Describing a shared hobby with 장인어른.
아내의 아버지를 부를 때, 보통 '장인어른'이라고 합니다.
When calling the wife's father, we usually say 'Jang-in-eo-reun'.
Explaining the usage of 장인어른.
새로운 가족 구성원이 된 장인어른께 감사 인사를 전했습니다.
I expressed my gratitude to my father-in-law, who became a new family member.
Expressing gratitude using 장인어른.
그는 자신의 장인어른으로부터 사업에 대한 조언을 구했습니다.
He sought business advice from his father-in-law.
Seeking advice from 장인어른.
우리 가족사진에는 장인어른과 장모님도 함께 찍혔다.
My father-in-law and mother-in-law were also in our family photo.
Mentioning 장인어른 and 장모님 together.
결혼 후, 나는 나의 장인어른께서 운영하시는 회사에서 잠시 일하게 되었다.
After marriage, I ended up working briefly at the company run by my father-in-law.
Complex sentence structure involving past experience with 장인어른.
명절날 장인어른 댁을 방문했을 때, 그의 옛날 이야기를 들으며 많은 것을 배웠다.
When I visited my father-in-law's house during the holiday, I learned a lot listening to his old stories.
Past tense narration involving 장인어른.
아내와 나는 장인어른의 조언을 존중하며 중요한 결정을 내리곤 한다.
My wife and I often make important decisions while respecting our father-in-law's advice.
Expressing respect for 장인어른's advice.
비록 장인어른과는 직접적인 혈연관계는 아니지만, 그는 나에게 아버지와도 같은 존재이다.
Although he is not directly related by blood, my father-in-law is like a father to me.
Expressing a deep personal connection to 장인어른.
그는 장인어른의 사업 수완을 물려받아 성공적인 사업가로 성장했다.
He inherited his father-in-law's business acumen and grew into a successful businessman.
Describing inheritance of skills from 장인어른.
아내의 아버지, 즉 나의 장인어른은 매우 자상하신 분이시다.
My wife's father, that is, my father-in-law, is a very kind person.
Clarifying the relationship using 장인어른.
모든 사위들은 자신의 장인어른을 존경해야 한다는 사회적 통념이 있다.
There is a social norm that all sons-in-law should respect their fathers-in-law.
Discussing societal expectations regarding 장인어른.
그의 장인어른께서 물려주신 가업을 이어받아 현재 성공적으로 운영하고 있다.
He has inherited the family business passed down from his father-in-law and is currently running it successfully.
Continuing a legacy from 장인어른.
문화적 차이 때문에 한국의 사위들은 장인어른과의 관계를 신중하게 구축해야 할 필요성을 느낀다.
Due to cultural differences, sons-in-law in Korea feel the need to carefully build their relationship with their fathers-in-law.
Discussing cultural nuances related to 장인어른.
그는 장인어른으로부터 물려받은 사업체를 현대적인 감각으로 혁신하며 새로운 도약을 이루었다.
He innovated the business inherited from his father-in-law with a modern sensibility, achieving a new leap forward.
Complex sentence describing business transformation linked to 장인어른.
정치적 입지가 확고했던 장인어른의 영향력은 그의 사위에게도 상당한 이점으로 작용했다.
The influence of his father-in-law, who had a firm political standing, also served as a significant advantage for his son-in-law.
Discussing the impact of 장인어른's status.
가족 간의 화합을 도모하기 위해, 그는 장인어른과 자주 소통하며 서로의 입장을 이해하려 노력했다.
To promote family harmony, he frequently communicated with his father-in-law, striving to understand each other's perspectives.
Efforts to build understanding with 장인어른.
그는 장인어른의 사업 철학을 존경하면서도, 자신만의 방식으로 회사를 발전시키고자 하는 열망을 품고 있었다.
While respecting his father-in-law's business philosophy, he harbored a desire to develop the company in his own way.
Balancing respect for 장인어른's ideas with personal vision.
사회적 지위가 높은 장인어른 앞에서 늘 겸손한 태도를 유지하는 것이 그의 미덕이었다.
Maintaining a humble attitude at all times in front of his father-in-law, who held a high social status, was his virtue.
Describing a character trait in relation to 장인어른.
그는 장인어른의 가르침을 바탕으로 자신만의 성공 방정식을 구축해 나갔다.
Based on his father-in-law's teachings, he built his own formula for success.
Building success upon foundations laid by 장인어른.
가족 간의 대화에서 장인어른의 의견은 언제나 존중받았으며, 이는 가족의 안정에 기여했다.
In family conversations, the opinion of the father-in-law was always respected, which contributed to the family's stability.
The role of 장인어른's opinion in family dynamics.
그는 장인어른의 막대한 재력과 사회적 영향력을 등에 업고 정치계에 화려하게 입문했지만, 곧 자신의 능력만으로는 한계에 부딪혔다.
Leveraging his father-in-law's vast fortune and social influence, he made a dazzling entry into politics, but soon found himself limited by his own abilities alone.
Complex sentence exploring the double-edged sword of reliance on 장인어른's resources.
전통적인 가치관과 현대적 사고방식 사이에서 고뇌하던 장인어른은 결국 자신의 신념을 따르기로 결정하며, 이는 가족 전체에 큰 파장을 일으켰다.
Wrestling between traditional values and modern ways of thinking, the father-in-law ultimately decided to follow his beliefs, which caused significant ripples throughout the entire family.
Exploration of internal conflict within 장인어른 and its impact.
그의 장인어른이 남긴 유산은 단순히 물질적인 부를 넘어, 도덕적 책임감과 사회적 의무라는 무형의 가치들을 포함하고 있었다.
The legacy left by his father-in-law encompassed not just material wealth, but also intangible values such as moral responsibility and social obligation.
Analyzing the multifaceted legacy of 장인어른.
사회 계층 간의 이동이 어려웠던 시기에, 장인어른의 든든한 지원은 그가 역경을 딛고 성공할 수 있었던 결정적인 요인이었다.
During a time when social mobility was difficult, the strong support from his father-in-law was a decisive factor that enabled him to overcome adversity and succeed.
Highlighting the pivotal role of 장인어른's support in overcoming challenges.
그는 장인어른의 엄격한 가르침 아래에서 인내와 성실의 중요성을 체득했으며, 이는 그의 삶의 모든 영역에 깊이 각인되었다.
Under his father-in-law's strict teachings, he internalized the importance of patience and diligence, which became deeply imprinted on all areas of his life.
Describing the profound impact of 장인어른's guidance on character development.
장인어른의 다소 보수적인 견해와 충돌하는 지점이 있었음에도 불구하고, 그는 언제나 예의를 갖추어 자신의 의견을 개진하며 건설적인 대화를 이끌어냈다.
Despite some clashes with his father-in-law's somewhat conservative views, he always expressed his opinions with politeness, leading to constructive dialogues.
Navigating differences in opinion with 장인어른 respectfully.
그의 장인어른은 사회적 통념에 얽매이지 않고, 자신의 딸이 원하는 삶을 살도록 전폭적인 지지를 아끼지 않는 진보적인 인물이었다.
His father-in-law was a progressive figure who, unconstrained by social conventions, offered unwavering support for his daughter to live the life she desired.
Portraying 장인어른 as a progressive and supportive individual.
만약 장인어른께서 사업 확장을 반대하셨다면, 그의 현재 성공은 상상하기 어려웠을지도 모른다.
Had his father-in-law opposed the business expansion, his current success might have been unimaginable.
Hypothetical past scenario illustrating the crucial role of 장인어른's decision.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
— My father-in-law (wife's father).
제 장인어른은 의사 선생님이십니다. (My father-in-law is a doctor.)
— To my father-in-law.
장인어른께 큰절을 올렸습니다. (I bowed deeply to my father-in-law.)
— My father-in-law (as subject).
장인어른께서 저에게 용돈을 주셨어요. (My father-in-law gave me pocket money.)
— With my father-in-law.
주말에 장인어른과 함께 등산을 갔습니다. (I went hiking with my father-in-law on the weekend.)
— My father-in-law's house.
이번 명절에는 장인어른 댁에 갈 거예요. (I will go to my father-in-law's house this holiday.)
— My father-in-law's words/advice.
장인어른의 말씀은 항상 옳아요. (My father-in-law's words are always right.)
— My beloved father-in-law.
사랑하는 장인어른께 감사드립니다. (To my beloved father-in-law, thank you.)
— My father-in-law's teachings.
장인어른의 가르침 덕분에 올바르게 성장할 수 있었습니다. (Thanks to my father-in-law's teachings, I was able to grow up properly.)
— My father-in-law's business.
장인어른의 사업을 돕고 있습니다. (I am helping with my father-in-law's business.)
— To show respect to my father-in-law.
모든 사위는 장인어른께 존경을 표해야 합니다. (All sons-in-law must show respect to their fathers-in-law.)
Often Confused With
This is the term for the husband's father. 장인어른 is for the wife's father. The distinction is crucial.
This is the general term for one's own father. 장인어른 specifically refers to an in-law.
This is the term for the wife's mother. 장인어른 refers to the wife's father.
Idioms & Expressions
— An expression emphasizing extreme respect and deference towards one's father-in-law, implying one would not even dare to step on his shadow. It signifies a very formal and respectful relationship.
옛날에는 사위가 장인어른의 그림자도 밟지 않을 정도로 공경했다고 한다.
Archaic/Traditional— Literally, 'only lifts the spoon at the father-in-law's table.' This idiom suggests a very submissive and respectful attitude, where the son-in-law barely partakes or expresses minimal needs in the presence of his wife's father.
그는 장인어른 앞에서 장인어른의 밥상은 숟가락만 드는 태도를 보였다.
Traditional/Slightly dated— To watch for the father-in-law's reactions or moods, implying a cautious and attentive approach to the relationship.
그는 항상 장인어른의 눈치를 보며 행동했다.
Common— An idiom suggesting that receiving praise from one's father-in-law is extremely difficult, akin to catching stars from the sky. It highlights a challenging or critical relationship.
그는 장인어른의 칭찬은 하늘의 별따기라고 말하며 힘들어했다.
Figurative/Common— To bow down and prostrate oneself before the father-in-law. This signifies the utmost level of respect, often performed in very formal or apologetic situations.
실수를 저지른 사위는 장인어른께 엎드려 절하며 용서를 구했다.
Formal/EmphaticEasily Confused
Both refer to a father-in-law, leading learners to believe they are interchangeable.
<mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>장인어른</mark> is the wife's father (from son-in-law's view). 시아버님 is the husband's father (from daughter-in-law's view).
My wife calls her father <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>장인어른</mark>. I call my father-in-law 시아버님.
It's the basic word for 'father', and learners might default to it for any fatherly figure.
<mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>장인어른</mark> is specifically for the wife's father, implying a relationship through marriage. 아버지 is for one's own biological father.
My father is '아버지'. My wife's father is <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>장인어른</mark>.
Both are terms for the wife's parents.
<mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>장인어른</mark> is the wife's father. 장모님 is the wife's mother. They are parallel terms for the wife's parents.
My wife's father is <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>장인어른</mark>, and her mother is 장모님.
Both relate to the son-in-law's relationship with his wife's family.
<mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>장인어른</mark> is the term used *by* the son-in-law to refer to his wife's father. 사위 is the term for the son-in-law himself.
The son-in-law calls his wife's father <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>장인어른</mark>. The wife's parents call him 사위.
Both relate to the wife's family.
<mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>장인어른</mark> refers to the specific person (wife's father). 처가 refers to the wife's family or home collectively.
I am visiting my <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>장인어른</mark> at his 처가.
Sentence Patterns
Subject + <mark class='bg-violet-200 dark:bg-violet-800 px-0.5 rounded'>장인어른</mark> + Verb
나는 <mark class='bg-violet-200 dark:bg-violet-800 px-0.5 rounded'>장인어른</mark>을 만났다. (I met my father-in-law.)
Subject + <mark class='bg-violet-200 dark:bg-violet-800 px-0.5 rounded'>장인어른</mark> + Noun + Verb
내 아내는 <mark class='bg-violet-200 dark:bg-violet-800 px-0.5 rounded'>장인어른</mark>의 선물을 좋아해요. (My wife likes my father-in-law's gift.)
Subject + <mark class='bg-violet-200 dark:bg-violet-800 px-0.5 rounded'>장인어른</mark>께서 + Verb
<mark class='bg-violet-200 dark:bg-violet-800 px-0.5 rounded'>장인어른</mark>께서 건강하십니다. (My father-in-law is healthy.)
Subject + <mark class='bg-violet-200 dark:bg-violet-800 px-0.5 rounded'>장인어른</mark> + Locative Particle + Verb
나는 <mark class='bg-violet-200 dark:bg-violet-800 px-0.5 rounded'>장인어른</mark> 댁에 자주 간다. (I often go to my father-in-law's house.)
Subject + <mark class='bg-violet-200 dark:bg-violet-800 px-0.5 rounded'>장인어른</mark> + Indirect Object Particle + Verb
아내의 <mark class='bg-violet-200 dark:bg-violet-800 px-0.5 rounded'>장인어른</mark>께서는 나에게 큰 도움을 주셨다. (My wife's father gave me great help.)
Subject + <mark class='bg-violet-200 dark:bg-violet-800 px-0.5 rounded'>장인어른</mark> + Adjective
그의 <mark class='bg-violet-200 dark:bg-violet-800 px-0.5 rounded'>장인어른</mark>은 매우 현명하시다. (His father-in-law is very wise.)
Conditional Clause + <mark class='bg-violet-200 dark:bg-violet-800 px-0.5 rounded'>장인어른</mark> + Verb
만약 <mark class='bg-violet-200 dark:bg-violet-800 px-0.5 rounded'>장인어른</mark>께서 반대하셨다면, 나는 이 일을 하지 못했을 것이다. (If my father-in-law had opposed it, I would not have been able to do this.)
Subject + <mark class='bg-violet-200 dark:bg-violet-800 px-0.5 rounded'>장인어른</mark> + Gerund/Noun + Verb
나는 <mark class='bg-violet-200 dark:bg-violet-800 px-0.5 rounded'>장인어른</mark>의 사업 철학을 배우는 중이다. (I am learning my father-in-law's business philosophy.)
Word Family
Nouns
Related
How to Use It
High in contexts involving sons-in-law discussing or referring to their wife's father.
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Using <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>장인어른</mark> for husband's father.
→
시아버지 / 시아버님
This is a fundamental error. <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>장인어른</mark> is exclusively for the wife's father. The term for the husband's father is distinct and must be used to avoid disrespect.
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Using <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>장인어른</mark> for one's own father.
→
아버지 / 아빠
<mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>장인어른</mark> refers to an in-law relationship. Using it for your biological father is incorrect and confusing.
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Confusing <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>장인어른</mark> with wife's mother.
→
장모님
<mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>장인어른</mark> refers to the father, while 장모님 refers to the mother. Both are wife's parents, but distinct roles.
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Incorrect pronunciation leading to misunderstanding.
→
Jang-in-eo-reun (with proper Korean phonetics)
Mispronouncing sounds like 'eo' or the flapped 'r' can make the word unrecognizable or sound unnatural. Accurate pronunciation is key for clear communication.
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Using <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>장인어른</mark> in a situation where '아버지' or '아버님' would be more appropriate (e.g., referring to one's own father).
→
아버지 / 아버님
This mistake shows a lack of understanding of the specific contexts for kinship terms. <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>장인어른</mark> is strictly for the wife's father.
Tips
Master the Sounds
Practice the pronunciation of 장인어른. Pay close attention to the 'j' sound at the beginning, the 'eo' vowel, and the flapped 'r'. Listening to native speakers and repeating is key.
Know When to Use It
Remember that 장인어른 is used by a man referring to his wife's father. It's a formal and respectful term, crucial for navigating family dynamics in Korean culture.
Use Mnemonics
Create vivid mental images or stories linking the sound of 장인어른 to its meaning (wife's father). For example, imagine a 'Jang'gle of keys representing your 'in'-laws, and you must be 'eo'-rly to respect the 'reun'd elder.
Differentiate from Similar Terms
Crucially, distinguish 장인어른 from '시아버지/시아버님' (husband's father) and '아버지' (own father). Correct usage is vital for showing respect.
Write and Speak
Actively use 장인어른 in your own sentences, both written and spoken. The more you practice, the more natural it will become.
Understand Cultural Importance
Recognize that in Korean culture, respecting in-laws is highly valued. Using the correct term like 장인어른 is a key part of demonstrating this respect and building strong family relationships.
Listen Actively
Pay attention to how native speakers use 장인어른 in dramas, movies, or real conversations. Note the context and the speaker's relationship to the person they are referring to.
Apply Grammar Correctly
When forming sentences, remember to use appropriate particles, especially the honorific subject marker '께서' when 장인어른 is the subject.
Learn Related Vocabulary
Expand your knowledge by learning related terms like '시아버지/시아버님', '장모님', and '사위'. This will give you a comprehensive understanding of Korean kinship terms.
Show Genuine Respect
Ultimately, the correct use of 장인어른 is about showing genuine respect for your wife's father and valuing your extended family ties.
Memorize It
Mnemonic
Imagine a 'Jang'gle of keys (장) that only your 'in'-laws (인) would give you, and you must be very 'eo'-rly (어) to show respect to the 'reun'd (른) elder (father-in-law).
Visual Association
Picture a distinguished, elderly gentleman (your wife's father) wearing a traditional Korean robe ('hanbok'). He is holding a bouquet of flowers (representing the 'in' in Jang-in) and has a very dignified presence ('eo-reun').
Word Web
Challenge
Try to use 장인어른 in three different sentences describing hypothetical family situations. For example, 'I will visit my 장인어른 this weekend.'
Word Origin
The word 장인어른 is a compound word derived from two distinct Korean words: '장인' (Jang-in) and '어른' (Eo-reun).
Original meaning: '장인' (Jang-in) specifically denotes 'wife's father'. '어른' (Eo-reun) means 'adult' or 'elder', and is used as an honorific suffix to show respect.
Koreanic languagesCultural Context
It is crucial for learners to understand that 장인어른 is specific to the wife's father. Using it for the husband's father or one's own father would be considered a significant error and disrespectful.
In English-speaking cultures, 'father-in-law' is a general term that applies to both the wife's father and the husband's father. There isn't a specific distinction made in the term itself, though politeness and respect are still expected.
Practice in Real Life
Real-World Contexts
Family gatherings and holidays
- 장인어른께 인사드리러 왔습니다.
- 장인어른과 함께 명절 음식을 만들었어요.
- 우리 장인어른 자랑 좀 할게요.
Wedding ceremonies and related events
- 장인어른께 감사드립니다.
- 신부의 아버지, 즉 저의 장인어른입니다.
- 장인어른과 함께 춤을 추었습니다.
Discussions about one's spouse's family
- 제 아내는 장인어른을 정말 좋아해요.
- 이번에 장인어른께서 큰 수술을 받으셨어요.
- 장인어른의 조언이 큰 힘이 됐습니다.
Introducing family members
- 이분은 제 장인어른이십니다.
- 제 장인어른은 매우 엄격하신 분이셨어요.
- 우리 가족사진에는 장인어른도 함께 찍혔어요.
Seeking advice or discussing personal matters
- 장인어른께 제 고민을 털어놓았습니다.
- 사업 문제로 장인어른과 상의했습니다.
- 장인어른의 경험을 배우고 싶습니다.
Conversation Starters
"How was your visit with your 장인어른 last weekend?"
"My 장인어른 gave me some great advice about investing."
"I'm planning a surprise birthday party for my 장인어른. Any ideas?"
"What's the most memorable thing your 장인어른 has ever taught you?"
"My wife's father, my 장인어른, is coming to visit next month. I'm excited!"
Journal Prompts
Describe a time you had to show respect to your <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>장인어른</mark> or a similar elder figure. What did you do and how did you feel?
Imagine you are about to meet your <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>장인어른</mark> for the first time. What are your hopes and fears for this encounter?
Write a short letter to your <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>장인어른</mark> expressing your gratitude for something specific he has done for you or your family.
Reflect on the cultural significance of the term <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>장인어른</mark>. How does it differ from the English term 'father-in-law'?
Describe a hypothetical scenario where you need to ask your <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>장인어른</mark> for a significant favor. How would you approach the conversation?
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questionsThe term 장인어른 is used by a man (the son-in-law) to refer to his wife's father. It is a term of respect and signifies a specific familial relationship.
No, 장인어른 specifically refers to the wife's father. For the husband's father, a different term, '시아버지' or '시아버님', is used.
It is pronounced 'Jang-in-eo-reun'. The stress is relatively even, with a slight emphasis on the first syllable. Listen to audio resources for accurate pronunciation.
Absolutely not. 장인어른 is exclusively for your wife's father. Your own father is called '아버지' (Abeoji) or '아빠' (Appa).
장인어른 refers to the wife's father, used by the son-in-law. 장모님 refers to the wife's mother, also used by the son-in-law. They are the father and mother of one's wife, respectively.
In most traditional Korean contexts, calling your wife's father by his name is considered disrespectful. Using 장인어른 or the even more respectful '장인어른님' is appropriate. Sometimes, '아버님' (Abeonim - Father) might be used depending on the closeness of the relationship, but 장인어른 is always a safe and respectful choice.
The '어른' (eo-reun) part means 'adult' or 'elder'. Adding it to '장인' (wife's father) elevates the term, signifying a high level of respect for the elder's age and position within the family.
The term 장인어른 remains very common and is essential for maintaining respectful familial relationships in modern Korea, especially among younger generations who are marrying.
If you accidentally use the wrong term, especially for an elder, it's best to apologize sincerely and correct yourself. Koreans generally understand that learners might make mistakes, but showing genuine effort to learn and respect is appreciated.
While 장인어른 is the standard respectful term, in very close relationships, a son-in-law might refer to his wife's father simply as '아버지' (Father) or even '아빠' (Appa) if the wife uses it and the relationship is extremely informal. However, 장인어른 is always the safest and most appropriate default.
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Summary
The Korean word <mark class='bg-violet-200 dark:bg-violet-800 px-0.5 rounded'>장인어른</mark> (Jang-in-eo-reun) is a specific and respectful term used by a son-in-law to refer to his wife's father, signifying a formal familial relationship.
- Wife's father, a respectful term for son-in-law.
- Korean kinship term: '장인어른' (Jang-in-eo-reun) means wife's father.
- Used by a man to refer to his wife's father, showing respect.
- Essential for understanding Korean family relationships and etiquette.
Master the Sounds
Practice the pronunciation of 장인어른. Pay close attention to the 'j' sound at the beginning, the 'eo' vowel, and the flapped 'r'. Listening to native speakers and repeating is key.
Know When to Use It
Remember that 장인어른 is used by a man referring to his wife's father. It's a formal and respectful term, crucial for navigating family dynamics in Korean culture.
Use Mnemonics
Create vivid mental images or stories linking the sound of 장인어른 to its meaning (wife's father). For example, imagine a 'Jang'gle of keys representing your 'in'-laws, and you must be 'eo'-rly to respect the 'reun'd elder.
Differentiate from Similar Terms
Crucially, distinguish 장인어른 from '시아버지/시아버님' (husband's father) and '아버지' (own father). Correct usage is vital for showing respect.
Related Content
This Word in Other Languages
Related Grammar Rules
More family words
백일
A2100th day celebration (of a baby).
환갑
A260th birthday celebration.
칠순
A270th birthday celebration.
팔순
A280th birthday celebration.
알아주다
B1To recognize/understand (feelings); to acknowledge someone's thoughts or efforts.
입양아
A2Adopted child; a child legally taken into another family.
양녀
B1Adopted daughter.
입양
A2Adoption; legally taking another's child as one's own.
귀여워하다
A2To adore, to find cute, to cherish.
정답다
A2To be affectionate; to be friendly.
