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부적당하다

B1 adjective #7,500 most common 7 min read

부적당하다

bujeokdanghada Top 7,500

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips 부적당하다 in 30 Seconds

Explanation 부적당하다 in your Level:

At the A1 level, you don't need to use '부적당하다' often. Instead, you might use '안 좋아요' (not good) or '안 맞아요' (doesn't fit). However, it is good to recognize the '부' part, which means 'not'. This word is like saying something is 'not the right one'. For example, if you have a small box and a big toy, the box is '부적당해요' (unsuitable) for the toy. It is a formal word, so you will see it in books or signs more than in simple conversations with friends. Think of it as a fancy way to say 'This is not okay for this situation.'

For A2 learners, '부적당하다' is a useful word to describe things that are not quite right for a specific purpose. You can start using the pattern [Noun] + '에 부적당하다'. For example, '운동에 부적당한 신발' (Shoes unsuitable for exercise). This shows you can evaluate things based on their use. It is slightly more advanced than '안 맞다' because it sounds more objective. You might hear it from a salesperson or a teacher. Remember that '부' means 'not' and '적당하다' means 'suitable'. So it literally means 'not suitable'.

At the B1 level, you should be able to use '부적당하다' in both writing and formal speaking. You should understand the difference between this word and '부적절하다' (socially inappropriate). At this level, you can use it to talk about social issues, environment, or job requirements. For example, '이 지역은 농사를 짓기에 부적당합니다' (This area is unsuitable for farming). You should also be comfortable using the modifier form '부적당한' before nouns. It is a key word for expressing critical opinions in a polite and professional manner without being overly emotional.

B2 learners should use '부적당하다' with precision in professional and academic contexts. You should be able to discuss complex topics like '기후 변화로 인해 특정 작물 재배에 부적당해진 환경' (An environment that has become unsuitable for growing specific crops due to climate change). You should also recognize it in news broadcasts where it is used to critique government policies or economic conditions. At this level, you should understand how adverbs like '전적으로' (entirely) or '상당히' (considerably) modify the degree of unsuitability. You are expected to distinguish it clearly from synonyms like '미흡하다' (insufficient) or '부적합하다' (unfit/inadequate).

At the C1 level, you should have a nuanced command of '부적당하다' and its Hanja roots. You can use it to evaluate abstract theories, legal frameworks, or philosophical arguments. You might use it in a phrase like '민주주의 원칙에 부적당한 권력 행사' (An exercise of power unsuitable for democratic principles). You should also be able to navigate the subtle overlaps between '부적당하다', '부적합하다', and '부적절하다' in high-level writing. Your usage should reflect an understanding of the word's formal register and its role in objective, analytical discourse. You can also use it to describe human character traits in relation to specific roles or responsibilities.

For C2 speakers, '부적당하다' is part of a broad vocabulary used for precise articulation of mismatch and evaluation. You will encounter this in high-level literature, legal rulings, and specialized academic journals. You should be able to analyze why '부적당하다' was chosen over '부적격하다' (disqualified) in a specific legal context, for instance. You can use the word to construct complex, multi-clause sentences that evaluate systemic failures or historical mismatches. Your command of the word allows you to use it with absolute accuracy in tone, ensuring that the formality and the specific nuance of 'functional/contextual unsuitability' are perfectly conveyed.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

부적당하다 in 30 Seconds

부적당하다 means 'unsuitable' or 'inappropriate' for a specific purpose.
It is the negative form of 적당하다 (suitable) using the prefix 부 (not).
Commonly used with particles -에 or -기에 to specify the context of unsuitability.
More formal than '안 맞다' and more functional than '부적절하다'.

The Korean adjective 부적당하다 (bujeokdang-hada) is a critical term for intermediate learners (CEFR B1) because it bridges the gap between simple negation and formal evaluation. At its core, it describes something that is not suitable, not fitting, or inappropriate for a specific purpose, situation, or person. It is the direct negation of 적당하다 (to be suitable/appropriate). The word is composed of the prefix 부 (不) meaning 'not' or 'non-', and the root 적당 (適當) meaning 'suitability' or 'fitness'. When you use this word, you are usually making a judgment call based on criteria like size, quality, timing, or social norms.

Physical Suitability: It describes things that don't fit physically. For example, a chair that is too small for an adult is 부적당하다 for that person. Here, it focuses on the objective mismatch between the object and its intended use.
Social and Contextual Appropriateness: It is frequently used to describe behavior or speech that doesn't fit the setting. If someone wears a swimsuit to a formal wedding, their attire is 부적당하다. It implies a lack of harmony with the surroundings.
Functional Inadequacy: When a tool or method is ineffective for a task, this word applies. Using a butter knife to cut down a tree is highly 부적당하다. It highlights the inefficiency or incorrectness of the choice.

이 장소는 대규모 행사를 열기에 부적당하다. (This place is unsuitable for holding a large-scale event.)

In daily life, Koreans use this word when they want to be slightly more formal or precise than just saying "안 좋아요" (It's not good). It carries a nuance of objective evaluation rather than just personal dislike. If you say a movie is 부적당하다 for children, you are citing age-appropriateness ratings, not necessarily saying the movie is bad quality. This distinction is vital for professional communication and academic writing.

그의 말투는 공식적인 자리에 부적당했다. (His way of speaking was inappropriate for a formal occasion.)

Furthermore, 부적당하다 is often found in news reports, legal documents, and academic papers to describe conditions that are not conducive to a certain outcome. For instance, soil that is 부적당하다 for farming indicates a scientific mismatch in nutrients or moisture. It is a word of logic and classification.

Mastering 부적당하다 requires understanding its grammatical patterns. Since it is an adjective, it follows the standard descriptive verb conjugations in Korean. However, because it describes a relationship of (un)suitability, it almost always requires a target or a purpose.

Pattern 1: [Noun] + 에 부적당하다: This is the most common usage. The particle -에 marks the destination or purpose for which the subject is unfit. Example: "이 물은 마시기에 부적당하다" (This water is unsuitable for drinking).
Pattern 2: [Verb-기] + 에 부적당하다: When the purpose is an action, you nominalize the verb with -기. Example: "혼자 살기에 부적당한 집" (A house unsuitable for living alone).

건강이 좋지 않은 사람에게는 이 운동이 부적당할 수 있습니다. (This exercise might be unsuitable for people who are not in good health.)

In formal writing, you will see the modifier form 부적당한. For example, 부적당한 행동 (inappropriate behavior) or 부적당한 장소 (unsuitable place). It functions as a direct adjective before a noun. Note that while 부적절하다 is a close synonym, 부적당하다 often focuses more on functional mismatch, whereas 부적절하다 often carries a stronger moral or ethical weight.

지금은 그 문제를 논의하기에 부적당한 시기입니다. (Now is an unsuitable time to discuss that problem.)

When expressing that something is "very" unsuitable, you can use adverbs like 매우, 아주, 전적으로, 몹시. Conversely, to say something is "somewhat" unsuitable, you can use 다소 or 약간. This allows for a range of evaluative intensity in professional reports or personal opinions.

You will encounter 부적당하다 in several specific real-world domains. Understanding these contexts helps you recognize the word's weight and intent immediately.

1. News and Media: Journalists use this word to criticize government policies or corporate decisions. For example, "정부의 이번 대책은 서민 경제에 부적당하다는 지적이 나오고 있습니다" (Points are being made that the government's current measures are unsuitable for the common people's economy).
2. Workplace Evaluations: In performance reviews or project assessments, a manager might say a certain strategy is 부적당하다 for the current market conditions. It’s a professional way to say "this won't work."
3. Real Estate and Housing: When looking for an office or a home, agents might describe a space as 부적당하다 for a specific business due to zoning laws or size constraints.

이 기계는 정밀한 작업을 하기에는 부적당합니다. (This machine is unsuitable for doing precise work.)

In dramas or movies, characters might use this word during a serious discussion about relationships or career paths. A parent might tell their child that their current partner is 부적당하다 (unsuitable) for their family status—though this is a very traditional and formal way of speaking. In more modern settings, it’s used when discussing if a person is a good fit for a specific job role.

전문가들은 이 토양이 농사에 부적당하다고 결론지었습니다. (Experts concluded that this soil is unsuitable for farming.)

Finally, in academic textbooks, 부적당하다 is used to describe variables or samples that do not fit the criteria of a scientific study. It conveys a high level of objectivity and analytical rigor.

Learning 부적당하다 involves navigating some tricky linguistic overlaps. Here are the most common pitfalls English speakers face.

1. Confusing with '부적절하다' (Inappropriate): While both translate to 'inappropriate', 부적당하다 emphasizes a lack of fitness or functional suitability (e.g., a key that doesn't fit a lock). 부적절하다 (bujeokjeol-hada) emphasizes social or moral wrongness (e.g., an inappropriate joke or an unethical bribe). Using 부적당하다 for a moral failing sounds slightly off.
2. Overusing it in casual conversation: In a casual setting with friends, 부적당하다 can sound overly stiff. Instead of saying "이 식당은 우리 모임에 부적당해," people usually say "우리 모임에 안 맞아" (It doesn't fit our group) or "별로야" (It's not that good).
3. Incorrect Particle Usage: Learners often try to use the object particle -을/를. Remember, 부적당하다 is an adjective. You cannot "unsuit" something. You can only say that something "is unsuitable" for something else using -에 or -에게.

❌ 이 신발을 달리기에 부적당해요. (Wrong particle)
✅ 이 신발은 달리기에 부적당해요. (Correct: These shoes are unsuitable for running.)

Another common mistake is confusing it with 불편하다 (uncomfortable). While an unsuitable tool might be uncomfortable to use, 부적당하다 describes the objective state of being wrong for the task, whereas 불편하다 describes the subjective feeling of the user. Be careful to choose the word that reflects your intended meaning—objective mismatch vs. subjective discomfort.

아이들이 읽기에 부적당한 책들이 많이 있습니다. (There are many books unsuitable for children to read.)

To sound more natural and precise, it is helpful to compare 부적당하다 with its synonyms and alternatives. Each has a slightly different shade of meaning.

부적절하다 (bujeokjeol-hada): Focuses on etiquette, morals, or social standards. Use this for inappropriate comments, behavior, or relationships. 부적당하다 is more about physical or functional mismatch.
안 맞다 (an matda): The most common casual alternative. Literally "doesn't fit" or "doesn't match." It is used for clothes, personalities, and opinions alike. "이 신발은 나한테 안 맞아" (These shoes don't fit me).
어울리지 않다 (eoul-liji anta): Focuses on aesthetics and harmony. Use this when saying a hat doesn't look good on someone or a person doesn't blend in with a group. "그 옷은 너한테 안 어울려" (That outfit doesn't suit you).
불충분하다 (bulchung-bunhada): Means "insufficient." Sometimes something is 부적당하다 specifically because there isn't enough of it. Use this for time, money, or evidence.

비교:
1. 이 약은 아이에게 부적당하다 (Functional: Not the right medicine for kids).
2. 그의 행동은 부적절하다 (Moral: His behavior was inappropriate).

When choosing between these, consider the level of formality and the specific reason for the lack of suitability. If you are writing a report, 부적당하다 or 부적절하다 are best. In a chat with a friend, 안 맞아 is much more natural.

Finally, for very formal contexts like law or high-level diplomacy, you might hear 결격 사유가 있다 (to have grounds for disqualification), which is a much more specific and legalistic way to say someone is 부적당하다 for a position.

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

The root 'jeokdang' (適當) is also used to mean 'moderate' or 'just enough'. So, 'bujeokdang' can sometimes imply that something is either 'too much' or 'not enough', not just 'wrong'.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /pu.dʑʌk̚.t͈aŋ.ɦa.da/

US /pu.dʒʌk̚.t͈aŋ.hɑ.də/

Stress is generally even across syllables in Korean, but a slight emphasis may be placed on '부' (bu) to highlight the negative prefix.

Rhymes With

합당하다 (hapdang-hada) 정당하다 (jeongdang-hada) 당당하다 (dangdang-hada) 상당하다 (sangdang-hada) 단단하다 (dandan-hada) 만만하다 (manman-hada) 잔잔하다 (janjan-hada) 간단하다 (gandan-hada)

Common Errors

Pronouncing 'bu' as 'boo' with too much lip rounding.
Failing to tense the 'd' in 'dang' (it should sound like 'ttang' after 'jeok').
Pronouncing the final 'da' as 'dah' with an English-style long vowel.
Omitting the 'h' sound in 'hada' in fast speech.
Not making the 'k' in 'jeok' a stop sound.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 3/5

Common in written news and formal texts, making it essential for reading comprehension.

Writing 4/5

Requires correct particle usage (-에, -기에) and understanding of Hanja roots.

Speaking 3/5

Useful for formal evaluations, though '안 맞아' is more common in speech.

Listening 3/5

Clear pronunciation, but can be confused with '부적절하다' in fast speech.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

적당하다 (suitable) 부- (not/non-) 맞다 (to fit/be correct) 장소 (place) 방법 (method)

Learn Next

부적절하다 (inappropriate) 부적합하다 (unfit) 적절하다 (appropriate) 불충분하다 (insufficient)

Advanced

결격 사유 (grounds for disqualification) 부합하다 (to correspond/agree with) 상충되다 (to conflict with)

Grammar to Know

-기에 (For doing something)

먹기에 부적당하다 (Unsuitable for eating).

-기에는 (Emphasis on 'for doing something')

혼자 살기에는 부적당하다 (Unsuitable for living alone, specifically).

-ㄴ/은 (Adjective modifier form)

부적당한 장소 (An unsuitable place).

-아/어서 (Reason/Cause)

너무 비싸서 부적당해요 (It's too expensive, so it's unsuitable).

부- (Negative prefix)

부주의 (carelessness), 부정확 (inaccuracy).

Examples by Level

이 가방은 학교에 부적당해요.

This bag is unsuitable for school.

Simple present polite form.

그 옷은 추운 날씨에 부적당해요.

That outfit is unsuitable for cold weather.

Noun + -에 (for) pattern.

이 의자는 아기에게 부적당해요.

This chair is unsuitable for a baby.

Noun + -에게 (for/to) pattern.

여기는 공부하기에 부적당해요.

This place is unsuitable for studying.

Verb-기 (nominalization) + -에 pattern.

부적당한 선물이에요.

It is an unsuitable gift.

Modifier form + noun.

이 물은 마시기에 부적당해요.

This water is unsuitable for drinking.

Verb-기 + -에 pattern.

그 신발은 축구에 부적당해요.

Those shoes are unsuitable for soccer.

Noun + -에 pattern.

이곳은 수영하기에 부적당해요.

This place is unsuitable for swimming.

Verb-기 + -에 pattern.

이 방은 네 명이 잠자기에 부적당합니다.

This room is unsuitable for four people to sleep in.

Formal polite ending -습니다.

비오는 날씨는 등산에 부적당해요.

Rainy weather is unsuitable for hiking.

Subject + -는/은 with noun + -에.

너무 매운 음식은 아이들에게 부적당해요.

Food that is too spicy is unsuitable for children.

Adverb '너무' (too) modifying the subject.

이 종이는 편지를 쓰기에 부적당해요.

This paper is unsuitable for writing a letter.

Verb-기 + -에 with a specific action.

그 장소는 데이트하기에 부적당했어요.

That place was unsuitable for a date.

Past tense form -부적당했어요.

작은 차는 짐을 옮기기에 부적당해요.

A small car is unsuitable for moving luggage.

Adjective modifying the subject car.

이 책은 초보자가 읽기에 부적당해요.

This book is unsuitable for a beginner to read.

Agent (초보자가) + Verb-기 + -에.

여름 정장은 겨울에 입기에 부적당해요.

A summer suit is unsuitable to wear in winter.

Time noun + -에 (in/during) within the purpose clause.

이곳의 토양은 농사를 짓기에 부적당하다고 합니다.

They say the soil here is unsuitable for farming.

Indirect discourse -다고 합니다 (It is said that...).

그의 태도는 면접에서 매우 부적당해 보였습니다.

His attitude looked very unsuitable during the interview.

-어 보이다 (to look like/appear to be).

환경 보호를 위해 비닐봉지 사용은 부적당합니다.

The use of plastic bags is unsuitable for environmental protection.

Formal context using -를 위해 (for the sake of).

부적당한 방법으로 돈을 벌어서는 안 됩니다.

You must not make money through unsuitable methods.

Modifier form '부적당한' + method. -어서는 안 된다 (must not).

이 영화는 어린이가 보기에는 다소 부적당한 장면이 있습니다.

This movie has some scenes that are somewhat unsuitable for children to watch.

Adverb '다소' (somewhat). -기에는 (focusing on the action).

전문가들은 이 계획이 실현되기에 부적당하다고 결론지었습니다.

Experts concluded that this plan is unsuitable for realization.

Complex subject with -이/가 within the purpose clause.

건강 상태가 장거리 여행을 하기에 부적당합니다.

His health condition is unsuitable for taking a long-distance trip.

Abstract subject '건강 상태'.

이 도구는 정밀한 기계를 수리하기에 부적당해요.

This tool is unsuitable for repairing precise machinery.

Noun phrase '정밀한 기계' as the object of the nominalized verb.

그 후보자는 공직을 맡기에 부적당하다는 비판을 받고 있습니다.

That candidate is receiving criticism that they are unsuitable to take on public office.

Appositive clause -다는 (the criticism that...).

현재의 경제 상황에서 금리 인상은 부적당한 조치로 보입니다.

In the current economic situation, raising interest rates appears to be an unsuitable measure.

Noun phrase '부적당한 조치' (unsuitable measure).

개인 정보를 공개하는 것은 보안상 부적당합니다.

Disclosing personal information is unsuitable for security reasons.

-상 (from the viewpoint of/for the sake of).

이 논문은 학술지에 게재하기에 내용이 부적당합니다.

The content of this paper is unsuitable for publication in an academic journal.

Subject '내용' (content) evaluated against '게재하기에'.

전통적인 방식은 현대 사회의 빠른 변화에 부적당할 수 있습니다.

Traditional methods can be unsuitable for the rapid changes of modern society.

-ㄹ 수 있다 (can be/might be).

부적당한 초기 대응이 사태를 더욱 악화시켰습니다.

The unsuitable initial response worsened the situation further.

Modifier form used as the cause of an event.

이 주식은 장기 투자를 하기에는 부적당한 종목입니다.

This stock is an unsuitable item for long-term investment.

Financial context; '종목' (stock item).

그의 발언은 회의의 성격에 전적으로 부적당했습니다.

His remarks were entirely unsuitable for the nature of the meeting.

Adverb '전적으로' (entirely/wholly).

법원은 해당 조치가 헌법 정신에 부적당하다고 판결했습니다.

The court ruled that the measure in question was unsuitable for the spirit of the Constitution.

Formal legal language; '헌법 정신' (spirit of the constitution).

인간의 존엄성을 훼손하는 행위는 어떤 상황에서도 부적당합니다.

Acts that damage human dignity are unsuitable in any situation.

Ethical/Philosophical context; '어떤 상황에서도' (in any situation).

그 이론은 복잡한 사회 현상을 설명하기에는 부적당한 면이 있습니다.

That theory has aspects that are unsuitable for explaining complex social phenomena.

-ㄴ 면이 있다 (to have aspects/sides of...).

과도한 경쟁은 청소년의 정서 발달에 부적당한 환경을 조성합니다.

Excessive competition creates an unsuitable environment for the emotional development of adolescents.

Causative structure; '환경을 조성하다' (to create an environment).

기술적 결함으로 인해 이 시스템은 실전에 도입하기에 부적당합니다.

Due to technical flaws, this system is unsuitable for implementation in actual practice.

-로 인해 (due to/because of).

그의 문체는 엄숙한 추도사를 쓰기에는 너무 가벼워 부적당하다.

His writing style is too light and thus unsuitable for writing a solemn memorial address.

Cause and effect with -어/아 (too light, and so...).

역사적 고증이 부족한 장소는 박물관 부지로 부적당하다는 의견이 지배적이다.

The prevailing opinion is that a location lacking historical verification is unsuitable as a museum site.

'의견이 지배적이다' (opinion is dominant/prevailing).

특정 집단에 편향된 교육 과정은 민주 시민 양성에 부적당하다.

A curriculum biased toward a specific group is unsuitable for fostering democratic citizens.

Passive/Adjectival phrase '편향된' (biased).

거시 경제적 지표를 무시한 정책은 국가 경제의 장기적 안정에 부적당함을 입증했다.

Policies that ignored macroeconomic indicators proved their unsuitability for the long-term stability of the national economy.

Nominalization -함 (unsuitability) as an object of '입증하다'.

본 연구는 해당 가설이 변인 통제가 불가능한 상황에서는 적용하기 부적당함을 시사한다.

This study suggests that the hypothesis in question is unsuitable for application in situations where variable control is impossible.

Academic '시사한다' (suggests/implies).

문화적 특수성을 고려하지 않은 보편주의적 접근은 현지화 전략에 부적당할 수밖에 없다.

A universalist approach that does not consider cultural specificity cannot help but be unsuitable for localization strategies.

-ㄹ 수밖에 없다 (cannot help but be/have no choice but to be).

형식 논리에만 치우친 변론은 배심원들의 감성에 호소하기에는 부적당한 전략이었다.

A defense biased only toward formal logic was an unsuitable strategy for appealing to the jurors' emotions.

-에 치우친 (biased/leaning toward).

기존의 법체계가 급변하는 디지털 환경의 범죄를 규율하기에는 부적당하다는 목소리가 높다.

There are loud voices claiming that the existing legal system is unsuitable for regulating crimes in the rapidly changing digital environment.

'목소리가 높다' (voices are high/there is a strong outcry).

인간의 복잡한 내면세계를 단순한 이분법으로 재단하는 것은 인격 형성의 이해에 부적당하다.

Judging the complex inner world of humans with a simple dichotomy is unsuitable for understanding personality formation.

'재단하다' (to judge/cut to size) used metaphorically.

자본의 논리에만 매몰된 도시 개발은 시민들의 삶의 질 향상에 부적당한 결과를 초래했다.

Urban development immersed only in the logic of capital brought about unsuitable results for improving the quality of citizens' lives.

'초래하다' (to bring about/cause - usually a negative result).

심미적 가치만을 추구하는 건축은 실용성을 중시하는 공공 건축의 목적에 부적당하다.

Architecture that pursues only aesthetic value is unsuitable for the purpose of public architecture, which emphasizes practicality.

Contrast between '심미적' (aesthetic) and '실용성' (practicality).

Common Collocations

시기가 부적당하다

장소가 부적당하다

방법이 부적당하다

사용하기에 부적당하다

건강에 부적당하다

조건이 부적당하다

비율이 부적당하다

분위기에 부적당하다

교육에 부적당하다

용도에 부적당하다

Common Phrases

부적당한 처사

— An unsuitable handling of a situation or measure. Often used in political criticism.

정부의 이번 결정은 매우 부적당한 처사였다.

부적당한 발언

— An unsuitable remark. Similar to 'inappropriate comment' but focuses on it not fitting the context.

공식 석상에서 그런 부적당한 발언을 해서는 안 된다.

부적당한 인물

— An unsuitable person for a role or job. Focuses on lack of qualifications.

그는 리더로서 부적당한 인물이라는 평가를 받았다.

부적당한 관계

— An unsuitable relationship. Can imply social mismatch or improper ties.

두 사람의 부적당한 관계가 구설수에 올랐다.

부적당한 수단

— An unsuitable means or method to achieve an end.

목표를 위해 부적당한 수단을 동원해서는 안 된다.

부적당한 대우

— Unsuitable treatment or compensation. Often used regarding labor rights.

그는 회사에서 부적당한 대우를 받고 있다고 느꼈다.

부적당한 시점

— An unsuitable point in time or timing.

지금 질문을 하는 것은 매우 부적당한 시점이다.

부적당한 환경

— An unsuitable environment for growth or work.

소음이 많은 곳은 연구에 부적당한 환경이다.

부적당한 가격

— An unsuitable price, implying it's either too high or too low for the value.

이 물건에 만 원은 부적당한 가격인 것 같습니다.

부적당한 복장

— Unsuitable clothing for an event or weather.

장례식에 화려한 옷은 부적당한 복장이다.

Often Confused With

부적당하다 vs 부적절하다

Focuses on moral/social impropriety (e.g., a dirty joke).

부적당하다 vs 부적합하다

Focuses on failing to meet technical standards or requirements (e.g., non-compliant parts).

부적당하다 vs 불편하다

Focuses on the subjective feeling of discomfort.

Idioms & Expressions

"격에 부적당하다"

— To be unsuitable for one's status or the standard of the situation.

그 명품 가방은 학생 신분에 부적당하다.

Formal

"때와 장소에 부적당하다"

— To be unsuitable for the time and place (similar to 'TPO').

그런 농담은 때와 장소에 부적당해요.

Neutral

"근본적으로 부적당하다"

— To be fundamentally unsuitable.

이 시스템은 우리 회사와 근본적으로 부적당합니다.

Formal

"도리에 부적당하다"

— To be unsuitable according to moral principles or duty.

부모님께 그런 말을 하는 것은 도리에 부적당하다.

Formal

"상식에 부적당하다"

— To be unsuitable according to common sense.

그의 행동은 사회 상식에 부적당했다.

Neutral

"형편에 부적당하다"

— To be unsuitable for one's current financial or situational circumstances.

지금 큰 차를 사는 것은 내 형편에 부적당하다.

Neutral

"취지에 부적당하다"

— To be unsuitable for the original intent or purpose.

이 행사는 자선이라는 취지에 부적당한 것 같다.

Formal

"실정에 부적당하다"

— To be unsuitable for the actual state of affairs/reality.

이 법안은 농촌의 실정에 부적당하다.

Formal

"분수에 부적당하다"

— To be unsuitable for one's station or means (often used as a warning against greed).

분수에 부적당한 욕심은 화를 부른다.

Neutral

"정서에 부적당하다"

— To be unsuitable for one's emotions or cultural sentiment.

이 음악은 아이들의 정서에 부적당할 수 있다.

Neutral

Easily Confused

부적당하다 vs 부적격 (bujeokgyeok)

Both start with '부적' and mean 'not fitting'.

부적격 is a noun meaning 'disqualification'. It is used when someone officially fails to meet criteria for a license or position. 부적당하다 is a general adjective for unsuitability.

그는 신체검사에서 부적격 판정을 받았다.

부적당하다 vs 미흡하다 (miheup-hada)

Both describe something that is not good enough.

미흡하다 means 'insufficient' or 'lacking'. Something can be suitable (적당하다) but still insufficient (미흡하다). 부적당하다 means the *type* or *quality* is fundamentally wrong for the task.

보고서의 내용이 아직 미흡합니다.

부적당하다 vs 어색하다 (eosaek-hada)

Both can describe things that don't fit a situation.

어색하다 means 'awkward' or 'unnatural'. It describes the *vibe* or *feeling* of a situation. 부적당하다 is an objective evaluation of fitness.

처음 만난 사람과 있으면 어색해요.

부적당하다 vs 나쁘다 (nappeuda)

Learners use 'bad' as a catch-all for 'unsuitable'.

나쁘다 is a general value judgment. A 'bad' person is morally wrong. An 'unsuitable' person (부적당한 사람) might be a great person, just not right for *that* specific job.

그는 나쁜 사람이 아니지만 이 일에는 부적당해요.

부적당하다 vs 불리하다 (bulli-hada)

Both describe negative conditions.

불리하다 means 'disadvantageous'. It is used in competitions or negotiations. 부적당하다 is about suitability. A situation can be unsuitable (부적당하다) because it is too easy, not just because it's disadvantageous.

이 조건은 우리에게 불리합니다.

Sentence Patterns

[Noun]은 [Noun]에 부적당해요.

이 차는 여행에 부적당해요.

[Noun]은 [Verb]-기에 부적당합니다.

이 물은 마시기에 부적당합니다.

부적당한 [Noun]을/를 [Verb].

부적당한 방법을 사용하지 마세요.

[Noun]이/가 [Verb]-기에 부적당하다는 평가를 받다.

그는 팀장직을 맡기에 부적당하다는 평가를 받았다.

[Noun]상 부적당하다.

보안상 부적당한 행동입니다.

[Noun]에 부적당한 면이 없지 않다.

이 계획은 현실에 부적당한 면이 없지 않다.

[Noun]에 부적당함을 시사하다.

연구 결과는 이 약이 임산부에게 부적당함을 시사한다.

[Noun]을/를 무시한 [Noun]은 [Noun]에 부적당한 결과를 초래하다.

민의를 무시한 결정은 민주주의에 부적당한 결과를 초래했다.

Word Family

Nouns

부적당 (unsuitability)

부적절 (inappropriateness)

부적합 (unfitness)

Verbs

부적당시하다 (to regard as unsuitable - rare)

적당하다 (to be suitable)

Adjectives

부적당한 (unsuitable - modifier form)

부적절한 (inappropriate)

부적합한 (unfit)

적당 (suitability)

부정 (negation)

불일치 (mismatch)

부적격 (disqualification)

미달 (falling short)

How to Use It

frequency

Common in media, government, and professional settings. Less common in casual street slang.

Common Mistakes

이 옷을 파티에 부적당해요. → 이 옷은 파티에 부적당해요.
You cannot use the object particle '-을' with an adjective. Use the subject particle '-은/는' or '-이/가'.
그는 부적당하게 말했어요. → 그는 부적절하게 말했어요.
If you are talking about the *way* someone spoke (rude/improper), '부적절하게' is better. '부적당하게' would mean he spoke in a way that didn't fit the functional goal.
이 신발은 나한테 부적당해요. (to mean 'uncomfortable') → 이 신발은 나한테 불편해요.
If your feet hurt, use '불편하다'. '부적당하다' means they are the wrong type of shoe for the task (e.g., heels for running).
부적당한 답이에요. → 틀린 답이에요.
If a math answer is 1+1=3, it's '틀리다' (wrong). '부적당하다' is for suitability, not factual correctness.
그 영화는 아이가 보기에 부적당해요. (without particle) → 그 영화는 아이가 보기에 부적당해요.
Learners often forget the '-기에' or '-에' particle which is necessary to show *what* it is unsuitable for.

Tips

Particle Precision

Always remember that 부적당하다 is an adjective. Never use -을/를 with it. Use -은/는 for the subject and -에 for the target purpose.

Hanja Power

Learning that '부' (不) means 'not' will help you understand dozens of other words like 부자연 (unnatural) and 부정확 (inaccurate).

Polite Rejection

In a professional setting, saying a proposal is '부적당하다' is a standard way to reject it without being rude. It focuses on the 'fit', not the 'quality'.

Environmental Use

This word is very common when discussing climate or ecology (e.g., soil unsuitable for growth). Keep this in mind for academic reading.

Formal Reports

When writing reports, use '부적당함' (the unsuitability) as a noun to summarize findings. '연구 결과 부적당함이 밝혀졌다' (The study revealed unsuitability).

Avoid Slang

Don't try to make this word 'cool' or 'slangy'. It is a formal, analytical word. Keep it for serious discussions or evaluations.

Look for Contrast

In texts, '부적당하다' is often contrasted with '적합하다' or '올바르다'. Finding these contrasts helps you understand the author's logic.

News Keywords

In news headlines, look for '부적당'. It usually signals a critique of a person in power or a new law.

The 'Fit' Test

Whenever you see this word, ask yourself: 'What is not fitting what?' This mental model helps clarify the sentence structure.

Objectivity

Use this word when you want to sound like you are making a logical judgment rather than just expressing a feeling.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of 'Boo! (부) - Joking (적) - Dang! (당)'. If someone tells a 'Boo-worthy' (bad) 'Joke' at a funeral, you'd say 'Dang, that was unsuitable!'

Visual Association

Imagine a giant trying to sit in a tiny dollhouse chair. The chair is '부적당하다' for the giant.

Word Web

부 (Not) 적당 (Suitable) 장소 (Place) 시기 (Time) 방법 (Method) 인물 (Person) 조건 (Condition) 평가 (Evaluation)

Challenge

Try to find three things in your room right now that are '부적당하다' for a specific task (e.g., using a pen to eat soup) and say the sentence aloud in Korean.

Word Origin

Derived from Sino-Korean (Hanja) roots. It is a combination of the prefix 'bu' and the adjective 'jeokdang-hada'.

Original meaning: Not (不) + Suitable (適) + Right/Ought (當). It literally means 'not being in the right or suitable state'.

Sino-Korean (Hanja-based)

Cultural Context

When describing people as '부적당하다', be careful as it can sound like a harsh judgment of their character or abilities. Use it for their 'actions' or 'skills' rather than the person themselves to be more polite.

English speakers might use 'inappropriate' for both social errors and functional mismatches. Korean splits these into '부적절하다' (social) and '부적당하다' (functional/contextual).

Used in official Korean government rating systems for media unsuitable for minors. Commonly found in Korean law (민법/Civil Law) to describe unsuitable conditions for contracts. Frequent in Korean 'Business Manners' guidebooks regarding attire and speech.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Job Interview / HR

직무에 부적당하다
인재상에 부적당하다
경력이 부적당하다
태도가 부적당하다

Weather and Environment

농사에 부적당한 기후
외출하기에 부적당한 날씨
거주하기에 부적당한 지역
성장에 부적당한 토양

Education and Media

교육용으로 부적당하다
청소년에게 부적당한 영상
교재로 쓰기에 부적당하다
정서 발달에 부적당하다

Legal and Administrative

절차상 부적당하다
법적 근거로 부적당하다
계약 조건이 부적당하다
증거로서 부적당하다

Daily Evaluation

선물로 부적당하다
복장이 부적당하다
음식의 간이 부적당하다
가구 배치가 부적당하다

Conversation Starters

"이 옷이 파티에 입고 가기에 부적당할까요? (Would this outfit be unsuitable for the party?)"

"지금 그 이야기를 꺼내기에는 좀 부적당한 시기인 것 같아요. (I think now is a bit of an unsuitable time to bring that up.)"

"이 장소가 우리 행사를 열기에 부적당하다고 생각하세요? (Do you think this place is unsuitable for our event?)"

"전문가들은 이 방법이 문제 해결에 부적당하다고 하네요. (Experts say this method is unsuitable for solving the problem.)"

"어린이들이 보기에 부적당한 장면이 있나요? (Are there any scenes unsuitable for children to watch?)"

Journal Prompts

과거에 부적당한 복장을 입고 곤란했던 경험을 써 보세요. (Write about an experience where you were embarrassed by wearing unsuitable clothing.)

어떤 직업이 당신의 성격에 부적당하다고 생각하나요? 그 이유는 무엇인가요? (What job do you think is unsuitable for your personality? Why?)

현대 사회에서 부적당하다고 느껴지는 전통적인 관습이 있나요? (Are there any traditional customs that feel unsuitable in modern society?)

공부하기에 가장 부적당한 장소는 어디인가요? (Where is the most unsuitable place for studying?)

정부가 내놓은 정책 중 부적당하다고 생각하는 것이 있다면 비판해 보세요. (Critique any government policy you think is unsuitable.)

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

Yes, but it sounds formal. If the size is wrong, it's '부적당하다' for your body. However, in a shop, you would usually say '사이즈가 안 맞아요' (The size doesn't fit).

Use '부적당하다' for functional mismatches (e.g., this hammer is unsuitable for this nail). Use '부적절하다' for social/moral errors (e.g., that comment was inappropriate for a funeral).

Yes, but be careful. It implies they lack the skills or character for a specific role. '그는 교사로서 부적당하다' (He is unsuitable as a teacher). It is a strong evaluation.

You can use the adverb '전혀' (at all) with a negative or '전적으로' (entirely). '전적으로 부적당합니다' is very formal and strong.

Yes, if the food is unsuitable for a diet or a specific person. '이 음식은 환자에게 부적당해요' (This food is unsuitable for patients).

Yes, '부적당했다' (was unsuitable). For example, '그때는 시기가 부적당했다' (The timing was unsuitable back then).

Use '-에' for nouns (공부에 부적당하다) and '-기에' for verbs (공부하기에 부적당하다).

Since it is already a negative word, using it with '안' or '않다' (안 부적당하다) creates a double negative meaning 'not unsuitable', which is rare and confusing. Just use '적당하다'.

Yes! '등산하기에 부적당한 날씨' (Weather unsuitable for hiking) is a very common expression.

Yes, it frequently appears in TOPIK II (Intermediate/Advanced) reading and listening sections, especially in discussions about social issues.