This page in your language

فارسی

العربية

Deutsch

Español

Français

日本語

한국어

Português

中文

हिन्दी

Home
Learn
Korean
Vocabulary
정밀하다

B2 adjective 8 min read

정밀하다

jeongmilhada

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips 정밀하다 in 30 Seconds

Explanation 정밀하다 in your Level:

At the A1 level, '정밀하다' is a very advanced word that you likely won't need for daily survival. However, you can think of it as a 'super' version of '좋다' (good) or '자세하다' (detailed). Imagine you are looking at a very cool toy or a phone that has a really clear screen. You might hear people say it's '정밀하다'. For now, just remember that it means something is made very, very carefully with lots of tiny details. You don't need to use it yet, but recognizing the '정' and '밀' sounds can help you later. It’s like saying something is 'perfectly made'. Focus on simpler words like '똑똑하다' (smart) or '정확하다' (correct) first, but keep this one in the back of your mind for when you talk about machines or science.

At the A2 level, you are starting to describe things more specifically. '정밀하다' is a word you might see in a museum or a science book. It means 'precise' or 'very detailed'. If you are talking about a drawing that looks like a real photo, you can use '정밀하다'. A common phrase you might see is '정밀 검사' (jeong-mil geom-sa), which means a 'detailed check-up' at a hospital. If a doctor says this, they mean they want to look very closely at your health. You can try using it when describing a very detailed map or a high-quality camera. Just remember: use it for objects and work, not for people's feelings!

At the B1 level, you should begin to distinguish '정밀하다' from '자세하다' (detailed). While '자세하다' is common for stories or explanations, '정밀하다' is for technical things. You will encounter this word often in news reports about technology or the environment. For example, '정밀한 데이터' (precise data) or '정밀한 분석' (precise analysis). You should be able to use the adverb form '정밀하게' to describe how something is done. For instance, '지도를 정밀하게 그리세요' (Please draw the map precisely). This shows you are moving beyond basic descriptions and into more professional or academic Korean. It's a great word to use when you want to sound more serious and knowledgeable about a topic.

At the B2 level, '정밀하다' is a core vocabulary word for discussing technology, science, and professional work. You are expected to understand its Hanja roots (精 - refined, 密 - dense) and how they contribute to its meaning of 'technical precision'. You should use this word in essays or discussions about industry, medical science, or fine arts. You must also distinguish it from '정확하다' (accuracy of facts) and '세밀하다' (visual detail). For example, in a debate about AI, you might say 'AI는 정밀한 계산이 가능합니다' (AI is capable of precise calculations). You should also be comfortable with collocations like '정밀 기계' (precision machinery) and '정밀 진단' (detailed diagnosis). Using this word correctly signals that you have a firm grasp of formal, high-level Korean.

At the C1 level, you should use '정밀하다' with nuance and in complex grammatical structures. You understand that '정밀하다' carries a connotation of professional excellence and scientific rigor. You can use it to critique the methodology of a study or the craftsmanship of a high-end product. You might use it in the passive voice or within complex noun phrases: '반도체 공정의 정밀함이 세계 최고 수준이다' (The precision of the semiconductor process is at a world-class level). You also recognize its use in legal or forensic contexts, such as '정밀 감정' (expert forensic evaluation). At this level, you should also be aware of its synonyms like '정교하다' (exquisite) or '치밀하다' (meticulous/thorough) and choose between them based on the specific nuance of 'craftsmanship' vs 'logical tightness' vs 'technical precision'.

At the C2 level, '정밀하다' is a tool for professional-grade communication. You use it effortlessly in academic papers, technical reports, or high-level business negotiations. You understand its historical and cultural context—how the drive for '정밀' has shaped Korea's industrial identity. You can appreciate its metaphorical uses in literature to describe a 'precisely' constructed plot or a character's 'precise' observation of society. You are capable of explaining the subtle differences between '정밀' and related technical terms in a specialized field, such as mechanical engineering or medical diagnostics. Your usage is indistinguishable from a highly educated native speaker, utilizing the word to convey not just a state of being detailed, but a standard of absolute excellence and scientific truth.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

정밀하다 in 30 Seconds

정밀하다 means 'to be precise' or 'extremely detailed' in a technical or scientific sense.
It comes from Hanja: 精 (refined) + 密 (dense/close).
Commonly used in medical (정밀 검사) and engineering (정밀 기계) contexts.
Differs from '정확하다' (correctness) by focusing on the density of detail.

The Korean adjective 정밀하다 (jeongmil-hada) is a sophisticated term primarily used to describe a state of being extremely detailed, accurate, and precise. Rooted in Hanja (Chinese characters), the word is composed of 精 (정 - jeong), meaning 'refined' or 'essence', and 密 (밀 - mil), meaning 'dense' or 'close'. Together, they form a concept that transcends simple correctness; it implies a level of meticulousness where even the smallest components are handled with absolute exactness. This word is a staple in technical, scientific, and artistic contexts where the margin for error is near zero.

Technical Precision: When discussing high-tech machinery or scientific instruments, '정밀하다' describes the capability of the hardware to perform tasks with microscopic accuracy. For example, a '정밀 기계' (precision machine) is one capable of manufacturing parts with sub-millimeter tolerances.
Medical Context: In hospitals, you will frequently hear the phrase '정밀 검사' (detailed examination). Unlike a standard check-up, this refers to an in-depth diagnostic process, such as an MRI or a biopsy, where doctors look for minute details to ensure a correct diagnosis.
Artistic and Observational Detail: In the world of art, specifically drawing or sculpting, '정밀 묘사' (detailed depiction) refers to the act of rendering a subject with hyper-realistic detail, capturing every pore, hair, and shadow with unwavering fidelity.

이 시계의 부품들은 매우 정밀하다. (The parts of this watch are very precise.)

Understanding when to use '정밀하다' versus its synonyms like '정확하다' (accurate) or '세밀하다' (detailed) is key for B2 learners. While '정확하다' focuses on the truth or correctness of information, '정밀하다' focuses on the density and quality of the detail. If you are describing a map that shows every single alleyway and building height, '정밀하다' is the perfect choice because it highlights the intricate work involved in creating such a detailed representation.

수술 로봇의 움직임은 아주 정밀해야 합니다. (The movements of surgical robots must be extremely precise.)

In professional settings, using this word demonstrates a high level of vocabulary. It suggests that you appreciate the complexity and the effort required to reach such a standard. Whether you are reviewing a business report, analyzing a piece of software, or describing a scientific phenomenon, '정밀하다' conveys a sense of professional rigor and intellectual depth that simpler words cannot match.

Using 정밀하다 correctly requires understanding its grammatical behavior as a descriptive verb (adjective). It typically modifies nouns or functions as the predicate of a sentence. Because it is a '하다' adjective, its conjugation follows standard patterns, but its usage is often paired with adverbs that emphasize the degree of precision, such as '매우' (very), '극히' (extremely), or '상당히' (considerably).

As a Predicate (Sentence Ending): In its base form or conjugated forms like '정밀합니다' (formal) or '정밀해요' (polite), it describes the subject directly. Example: '그 분석 결과는 매우 정밀하다.' (That analysis result is very precise.)
As a Noun Modifier: To modify a noun, you use the form '정밀한'. Example: '정밀한 계획' (A precise plan) or '정밀한 측정' (A precise measurement). This is the most common way to use the word in professional writing.
Adverbial Form: The adverbial form '정밀하게' describes how an action is performed. Example: '데이터를 정밀하게 분석하세요.' (Please analyze the data precisely.)

과학자들은 우주의 지도를 정밀하게 그려냈다. (Scientists drew the map of the universe precisely.)

When constructing sentences, pay attention to the subject. '정밀하다' is rarely used for people's personalities (where '꼼꼼하다' is preferred) but is used for the products of people's work or the methods they use. If you say '그 사람은 정밀하다', it sounds slightly awkward; instead, say '그 사람의 작업 방식은 정밀하다' (That person's work method is precise).

이 기계는 정밀한 가공 기술이 필요합니다. (This machine requires precise processing technology.)

Furthermore, in academic writing, '정밀하다' often appears in the passive or causative structures indirectly. For instance, '정밀함이 요구된다' (Precision is required). This elevates the tone of your Korean to a professional, scholarly level. Practicing the shift between '정밀한' (adjective) and '정밀하게' (adverb) will significantly improve your fluency and ability to describe complex tasks and objects.

While '정밀하다' might not be a word you use to buy apples at the market, it is omnipresent in specific spheres of Korean life. If you watch Korean news, especially segments on the semiconductor industry or space exploration, you will hear '정밀' repeatedly. Korea's economy is heavily based on high-tech manufacturing, where '정밀 공정' (precision processing) is a point of national pride.

The News and Media: News anchors use this word when reporting on scientific breakthroughs or forensic investigations. For instance, '국과수에서 정밀 감식을 진행 중입니다' (The National Forensic Service is conducting a detailed forensic examination).
Hospitals and Clinics: If you go for a health check-up (건강검진) in Korea, the brochure might list '정밀 초음파' (detailed ultrasound) or '정밀 혈액 검사' (detailed blood test). Hearing this word in a medical context usually implies a more expensive but much more thorough procedure.
Documentaries and Art History: Narrators describing ancient Korean artifacts, like the intricate gold crowns of Silla or Goryeo celadon, will use '정밀하다' to praise the craftsmanship of ancient ancestors.

이번 신제품은 정밀한 센서를 탑재하고 있습니다. (This new product is equipped with a precise sensor.)

In everyday conversation, a Korean person might use it to compliment someone's meticulous work. If a friend builds a perfectly detailed miniature model, you might say, '와, 정말 정밀하게 잘 만들었다!' (Wow, you made it so precisely and well!). It carries a nuance of respect for the effort and skill involved.

사고 원인을 밝히기 위해 정밀 조사가 필요합니다. (A detailed investigation is needed to uncover the cause of the accident.)

You will also encounter this word in the names of companies. Many engineering firms in Korea include '정밀' in their name (e.g., 'OO정밀') to signal that they specialize in high-precision parts. This shows how the word is synonymous with reliability and advanced technology in the Korean business landscape.

For English speakers, the biggest challenge with 정밀하다 is distinguishing it from several other Korean words that all translate to 'detailed' or 'accurate' in English. Using the wrong one can make your sentence sound unnatural or technically incorrect.

Confusing with '정확하다' (Accurate): '정확하다' means something is 'correct' or 'right'. If a clock shows the right time, it is '정확하다'. If the clock's internal gears are made with extreme detail, the gears are '정밀하다'. Don't use '정밀하다' to mean 'you are right'.
Confusing with '세밀하다' (Detailed/Minute): '세밀하다' focuses on smallness and visual detail. You use it for a detailed description in a novel or a small pattern on a dress. '정밀하다' is better for technical precision and scientific accuracy.
Confusing with '꼼꼼하다' (Meticulous/Careful): '꼼꼼하다' describes a person's personality or their way of doing things. A person is 꼼꼼하다, but the resulting blueprint is 정밀하다. Avoid saying '제 친구는 매우 정밀해요' (My friend is very precise/technical - sounds like they are a robot).

틀린 예: 그 시계는 시간이 정밀하다. (X) -> 정확하다 (O).
옳은 예: 그 시계는 정밀하게 만들어졌다. (O)

Another mistake is using '정밀하다' in casual, emotional contexts. You wouldn't say your feelings are '정밀하다'. This word is cold and objective. It belongs in the lab, the workshop, or the courtroom. If you want to say someone described their feelings in great detail, use '자세하다' (detailed) or '상세하다' (detailed/elaborate).

틀린 예: 제 성격은 정밀합니다. (X) -> 꼼꼼합니다 (O).

Lastly, watch out for the pronunciation. The 'ㄹ' in '밀' should be clear. Sometimes learners confuse it with '정밀' (precision) and '정말' (really). While they sound similar to a beginner, they are completely different! '정말' is an adverb used for emphasis, while '정밀' is a noun root for precision.

To truly master '정밀하다', you must see it within the ecosystem of Korean words for 'detail' and 'accuracy'. Each word has its own 'flavor' and specific use case. By choosing the right one, you sound more like a native speaker and less like a dictionary translator.

정확하다 (Jeonghwak-hada) - Accuracy: Focuses on being 'correct'. Use this for mathematical answers, time, and facts. Example: '정확한 답' (Correct answer).
세밀하다 (Semil-hada) - Minute Detail: Focuses on 'smallness'. Use this for visual arts, textures, or descriptions that capture tiny elements. Example: '세밀한 묘사' (Minute description).
상세하다 (Sangse-hada) - Elaborate/Full: Focuses on 'completeness'. Use this for explanations, instructions, or reports that leave nothing out. Example: '상세한 설명' (Detailed explanation).
치밀하다 (Chimil-hada) - Elaborate/Thorough: Focuses on 'tightness' of logic or planning. Often used for plans, strategies, or even crimes! Example: '치밀한 계획' (A thorough/tightly-knit plan).

비교:
1. 정밀한 기계 (Precision machine - technical)
2. 세밀한 그림 (Detailed painting - visual)
3. 상세한 지도 (Detailed map - informative)

When should you choose '정밀하다' over the others? Choose it when you want to emphasize the scientific or technical rigor. If you are talking about a laboratory experiment, a high-end watch, or a surgical procedure, '정밀하다' is the most appropriate word. It implies that the detail is not just there for show, but is essential for the function or the truth of the object.

In summary, while these words overlap, '정밀하다' stays firmly in the realm of high-level accuracy and technical density. Mastering these distinctions will allow you to describe the world with the same precision that the word itself represents!

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

The character 精 (정) is the same 'jeong' used in '정신' (spirit/mind), suggesting that precision requires a focused spirit.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /t͡ɕʌ̹ŋ.miɭ.ɦa̠.da̠/

US /t͡ɕʌ̹ŋ.miɭ.ɦa̠.da̠/

Stress is typically even across all syllables in Korean, but a slight emphasis may fall on the first syllable '정'.

Rhymes With

치밀하다 (chimil-hada) 세밀하다 (semil-hada) 긴밀하다 (ginmil-hada) 면밀하다 (myeonmil-hada) 은밀하다 (eunmil-hada) 친밀하다 (chinmil-hada) 비밀하다 (bimil-hada) 공밀하다 (gongmil-hada)

Common Errors

Pronouncing '정' like '중' (jung).
Dropping the 'ㄹ' in '밀'.
Confusing it with '정말' (jeong-mal).
Making the 'h' in 'hada' too strong.
Shortening the 'i' sound in 'mil'.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 4/5

The Hanja characters are common in technical texts, making it recognizable but formal.

Writing 5/5

Requires understanding of when to use it over simpler synonyms like '자세하다'.

Speaking 4/5

Pronunciation is straightforward, but usage is limited to specific contexts.

Listening 3/5

Frequently heard in news and professional settings.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

자세하다 정확하다 만들다 기계 검사

Learn Next

정교하다 치밀하다 면밀하다 정밀도 공정

Advanced

정밀화학 나노기술 메커니즘 오차 범위 해상도

Grammar to Know

Adjective to Adverb conversion with '-하게'

정밀하다 -> 정밀하게 (Precisely)

Noun modification with '-ㄴ/은'

정밀한 + 기계 -> 정밀한 기계 (Precise machine)

Subject-Predicate agreement with descriptive verbs

결과가 정밀하다. (The result is precise.)

Expressing necessity with '-아야/어야 하다'

수술은 정밀해야 합니다. (Surgery must be precise.)

Causative construction with '-게 하다'

기계를 정밀하게 했다. (Made the machine precise.)

Examples by Level

이 그림은 정말 정밀해요.

This drawing is very detailed.

정밀해요 is the polite present form.

정밀한 시계가 있어요.

I have a precise watch.

정밀한 is the adjective form modifying '시계'.

지도가 아주 정밀하다.

The map is very detailed.

Plain form used for general statements.

카메라가 정밀해요.

The camera is precise.

Subject (카메라) + Adjective (정밀해요).

이것은 정밀한 기계입니다.

This is a precise machine.

Formal ending '-입니다'.

정밀하게 그려요.

Draw it precisely.

Adverbial form '-하게'.

정밀한 조사가 필요해요.

A detailed investigation is needed.

Modified noun '조사' (investigation).

그 로봇은 정밀하다.

That robot is precise.

Simple adjective sentence.

병원에서 정밀 검사를 받았어요.

I received a detailed examination at the hospital.

Past tense '받았어요'.

이 시계는 아주 정밀하게 작동합니다.

This watch operates very precisely.

Adverb '정밀하게' modifying '작동합니다'.

과학자들은 정밀한 도구를 사용해요.

Scientists use precise tools.

Object '도구' modified by '정밀한'.

수술은 매우 정밀해야 합니다.

Surgery must be very precise.

'-해야 하다' (must/should).

정밀한 지도를 보고 길을 찾았어요.

I found the way by looking at a detailed map.

Past tense with '-고' connector.

이 부품은 정밀한 가공이 필요합니다.

This part requires precise processing.

Formal style '-합니다'.

데이터를 정밀하게 분석하고 있어요.

I am analyzing the data precisely.

Present progressive '-고 있다'.

그 예술가는 정밀한 묘사를 잘해요.

That artist is good at detailed depiction.

'-을/를 잘하다' (to be good at).

반도체 제조에는 정밀한 기술이 요구됩니다.

Precise technology is required for semiconductor manufacturing.

Passive voice '요구됩니다' (is required).

사고 원인을 정밀하게 조사하고 있습니다.

They are precisely investigating the cause of the accident.

Adverbial use in a professional context.

정밀한 측정을 위해 실험을 반복했습니다.

We repeated the experiment for precise measurement.

'-을 위해' (for the sake of).

이 기계는 아주 작은 오차도 없이 정밀하다.

This machine is precise without even a tiny error.

'-도 없이' (without even).

정밀 진단을 받은 후에 치료를 시작합시다.

Let's start treatment after receiving a detailed diagnosis.

'-은 후에' (after doing).

건물을 짓기 전에 정밀한 설계가 필요합니다.

A precise design is needed before building a building.

'-기 전에' (before doing).

현미경으로 세포를 정밀하게 관찰했습니다.

I observed the cells precisely with a microscope.

Instrumental particle '-으로' (with/by).

그 보고서는 데이터가 매우 정밀하다.

The data in that report is very precise.

Subject-predicate structure.

현대 과학 기술은 정밀한 관측을 가능하게 했습니다.

Modern science and technology have made precise observation possible.

'-게 하다' (causative/make to be).

정밀도가 높은 부품일수록 가격이 비쌉니다.

The higher the precision of the part, the more expensive the price.

'-을수록' (the more... the more).

정밀한 분석 결과, 가스 누출이 원인이었습니다.

As a result of precise analysis, gas leakage was the cause.

Noun phrase followed by a result.

작가는 인물의 심리를 정밀하게 묘사했다.

The author precisely depicted the character's psychology.

Metaphorical use for abstract concepts.

정밀 기계 산업은 국가 경쟁력의 핵심입니다.

The precision machinery industry is the core of national competitiveness.

Compound noun '정밀 기계 산업'.

실험실에서는 모든 수치를 정밀하게 기록해야 한다.

In the laboratory, all figures must be recorded precisely.

Obligation '-해야 한다'.

이 렌즈는 정밀한 가공 과정을 거쳐 생산됩니다.

This lens is produced through a precise processing procedure.

'-을 거쳐' (through/via).

정밀 검사 결과 아무런 이상이 없었습니다.

The detailed examination results showed no abnormalities.

Formal past tense.

나노 기술의 발전으로 더욱 정밀한 제어가 가능해졌다.

With the development of nanotechnology, even more precise control has become possible.

'-아/어지다' (to become).

정밀한 타격 능력을 갖춘 미사일 시스템을 도입했다.

A missile system with precise strike capabilities was introduced.

Technical military terminology.

그 학자의 논문은 논리 전개가 매우 정밀하다.

The logical development of that scholar's thesis is very precise.

Describing abstract logic.

정밀 농업은 ICT 기술을 활용해 생산성을 높인다.

Precision agriculture increases productivity by utilizing ICT technology.

Specialized term '정밀 농업'.

사건의 재구성을 위해 정밀 감식이 수행되었다.

A detailed forensic examination was performed to reconstruct the incident.

Passive voice '수행되었다'.

정밀한 부품 배치는 기계의 수명에 큰 영향을 미친다.

Precise component placement has a significant impact on the machine's lifespan.

'-에 영향을 미친다' (to influence).

정밀 경제 모델을 통해 미래 시장을 예측한다.

Predict the future market through a precise economic model.

Academic context.

그의 연기는 인간의 미묘한 감정을 정밀하게 포착한다.

His acting precisely captures the subtle emotions of humans.

Artistic/Critical context.

양자 역학의 세계에서는 정밀한 측정이 본질적인 한계에 부딪힌다.

In the world of quantum mechanics, precise measurement hits fundamental limits.

Scientific/Philosophical context.

정밀 가공 기술의 국산화는 경제 안보의 핵심 과제이다.

Localizing precision processing technology is a key task for economic security.

Political/Economic context.

해당 연구는 정밀한 실험 설계를 바탕으로 도출된 결론이다.

The study's conclusion was derived based on a precise experimental design.

'-을 바탕으로' (based on).

정밀 의료는 개개인의 유전 정보를 분석하여 맞춤형 치료를 제공한다.

Precision medicine provides customized treatment by analyzing individual genetic information.

Specialized medical term '정밀 의료'.

우주선 발사 시 정밀한 궤도 계산은 한 치의 오차도 허용하지 않는다.

Precise orbital calculation during a spacecraft launch does not allow for even an inch of error.

Idiomatic expression '한 치의 오차도'.

고전 문헌에 대한 정밀한 주석은 텍스트의 이해를 돕는다.

Precise annotations of classical literature help in understanding the text.

Humanities/Scholarly context.

정밀 타격은 민간인 피해를 최소화하기 위한 전략적 선택이었다.

Precision strikes were a strategic choice to minimize civilian casualties.

Geopolitical context.

정밀 화학 분야에서의 혁신이 신소재 개발을 견인하고 있다.

Innovation in the field of fine chemicals is driving the development of new materials.

Industrial/Economic context.

Synonyms

정교하다 치밀하다 섬세하다 정확하다 꼼꼼하다

Antonyms

엉성하다 대략적이다

Common Collocations

정밀 검사

정밀 기계

정밀 분석

정밀 묘사

정밀 타격

정밀 측정

정밀 지도

정밀 진단

정밀 가공

정밀 수술

Common Phrases

정밀하게 조사하다

— To investigate something in great detail and with precision.

경찰은 사건 현장을 정밀하게 조사했다.

정밀함이 생명이다

— Precision is the most important factor (literally 'is life').

반도체 공정에서는 정밀함이 생명이다.

정밀도가 높다

— To have a high level of precision.

이 측정기는 정밀도가 매우 높다.

정밀 기기

— Precision instruments or equipment.

정밀 기기를 다룰 때는 주의해야 한다.

정밀 감식

— Detailed forensic identification or appraisal.

화재 현장에서 정밀 감식이 이루어졌다.

정밀 타격 시스템

— A system designed for precise strikes (usually military).

새로운 정밀 타격 시스템이 배치되었다.

정밀 조준

— Precise aiming.

목표물을 정밀 조준하고 사격했다.

정밀 묘사법

— The technique of detailed depiction in art.

그는 정밀 묘사법에 뛰어난 재능이 있다.

정밀 부품

— High-precision components/parts.

스마트폰에는 수많은 정밀 부품이 들어간다.

정밀 진단을 내리다

— To make a detailed diagnosis.

의사는 정밀 진단을 내리기 위해 추가 검사를 지시했다.

Often Confused With

정밀하다 vs 정확하다

정확하다 is about 'right or wrong' (accuracy), while 정밀하다 is about 'how much detail' (precision).

정밀하다 vs 세밀하다

세밀하다 is more for visual/artistic detail, while 정밀하다 is for technical/scientific precision.

정밀하다 vs 상세하다

상세하다 is used for explanations or information, while 정밀하다 is for objects or measurements.

Idioms & Expressions

"한 치의 오차도 없다"

— To not have even an inch (a tiny bit) of error. Often used with '정밀하다'.

그의 계산은 한 치의 오차도 없이 정밀했다.

Literary/Formal

"현미경을 들이대다"

— To look at something as if under a microscope (to examine very precisely).

정부는 예산안에 현미경을 들이대며 정밀하게 검토했다.

Metaphorical

"바늘 끝 같다"

— To be as sharp/precise as the tip of a needle.

그의 비판은 바늘 끝처럼 정밀하고 날카로웠다.

Literary

"톱니바퀴처럼 맞물리다"

— To fit together like gears (implies precise coordination).

계획의 모든 단계가 정밀하게 톱니바퀴처럼 맞물려 돌아갔다.

Common

"뼈를 깎는 노력"

— Bone-chilling effort (often used to achieve high precision/perfection).

정밀한 기술을 개발하기 위해 뼈를 깎는 노력을 했다.

Emphatic

"맥을 짚다"

— To find the pulse (to precisely identify the core issue).

그는 문제의 핵심을 정밀하게 맥을 짚어냈다.

Common/Idiomatic

"구멍이 없다"

— To have no holes (a plan or work is so precise it has no flaws).

그의 논리는 구멍이 없을 정도로 정밀하다.

Colloquial

"칼날 같다"

— Like a knife blade (very sharp and precise).

그의 정밀한 판단력은 칼날 같았다.

Literary

"빈틈이 없다"

— To have no gaps/cracks; to be flawless and precise.

이 기계는 빈틈없이 정밀하게 설계되었다.

Common

"신이 내린 손"

— Hands given by God (someone who does incredibly precise work).

그 외과의사는 정밀한 수술로 '신이 내린 손'이라 불린다.

Complimentary

Easily Confused

정밀하다 vs 정교하다

Both mean 'elaborate' or 'precise'.

정교하다 emphasizes the 'exquisiteness' or 'artistry' of the work (like jewelry), while 정밀하다 emphasizes 'scientific accuracy' (like a sensor).

정교한 조각상 vs 정밀한 센서

정밀하다 vs 치밀하다

Both imply a high level of detail.

치밀하다 is used for logical structures, plans, or strategies. 정밀하다 is for physical measurements or technical processes.

치밀한 계획 vs 정밀한 측정

정밀하다 vs 면밀하다

Both mean 'thorough' or 'detailed'.

면밀하다 is often used for reviewing, examining, or considering something carefully (mental/procedural). 정밀하다 is more about the inherent quality of being precise.

면밀한 검토 vs 정밀한 기계

정밀하다 vs 꼼꼼하다

Both mean 'meticulous'.

꼼꼼하다 is a personality trait of a person. 정밀하다 is a characteristic of an object or a technical result.

꼼꼼한 사람 vs 정밀한 도면

정밀하다 vs 자세하다

Both mean 'detailed'.

자세하다 is very general and common. 정밀하다 is formal and implies higher technical standards.

자세한 길 안내 vs 정밀한 수술

Sentence Patterns

[Noun]은/는 매우 정밀하다.

이 지도는 매우 정밀하다.

[Noun]을/를 정밀하게 [Verb].

데이터를 정밀하게 분석하세요.

정밀한 [Noun]이/가 요구되다.

정밀한 기술이 요구됩니다.

정밀 검사 결과, [Clause].

정밀 검사 결과, 건강에 이상이 없었습니다.

[Noun]의 정밀도가 높다/낮다.

이 센서의 정밀도가 매우 높다.

정밀 [Noun] 분야에서 [Clause].

정밀 화학 분야에서 신제품을 개발했다.

한 치의 오차도 없이 정밀하다.

우주선 궤도는 한 치의 오차도 없이 정밀했다.

정밀한 [Abstract Noun]을/를 바탕으로 [Verb].

정밀한 실험 설계를 바탕으로 연구를 진행했다.

Word Family

Nouns

정밀 (Precision)

정밀도 (Degree of precision)

정밀성 (Preciseness/Nature of precision)

정밀화 (Becoming precise)

Verbs

정밀화하다 (To make precise/to refine)

Adjectives

정밀하다 (To be precise)

정교하다

세밀하다

치밀하다

면밀하다

정확하다

How to Use It

frequency

Highest in technical, medical, and news domains. Moderate in everyday speech.

Common Mistakes

Using '정밀하다' for a person's character. → 꼼꼼하다 / 치밀하다
'정밀하다' is for objects, data, or processes. A person is '꼼꼼하다' (meticulous).
Saying '시간이 정밀하다' to mean 'The time is correct'. → 시간이 정확하다
'정확하다' is for correctness. '정밀하다' is for the mechanism of the clock.
Confusing '정밀' and '정말'. → 정말 (Really) / 정밀 (Precision)
Learners often mishear these. '정말' is an adverb of degree; '정밀' is a noun root.
Using '정밀하다' for emotional descriptions. → 자세하다 / 섬세하다
'정밀하다' is too technical for emotions. Use '섬세하다' (delicate/sensitive) for feelings.
Using the object marker with '정밀하다'. → 이 기계가 정밀하다 (O) / 이 기계를 정밀하다 (X)
'정밀하다' is an adjective, so it takes the subject marker '이/가', not '을/를'.

Tips

Think 'Microscope'

Whenever you describe something that requires a microscope to see or evaluate properly, '정밀하다' is likely the right word. It’s about the micro-level.

Adjective vs Adverb

Use '정밀한' before a noun (정밀한 계획) and '정밀하게' before a verb (정밀하게 조사하다). This is a common pattern in B2 level writing.

Pair with '오차'

'오차' (error/margin of error) is the best friend of '정밀하다'. Phrases like '오차 없이 정밀하다' (precise without error) are very natural.

Medical Check-ups

If you are in Korea and need a thorough health check, look for '정밀 검진' packages. They are more expensive but much more detailed.

Sound Smarter

In business presentations, using '정밀 분석' (precise analysis) instead of '자세한 분석' makes you sound more professional and data-driven.

Realistic Drawing

If you see a drawing that looks like a photograph, the correct compliment is '정밀 묘사가 대단하네요!' (The detailed depiction is amazing!).

Tech Pride

Koreans are proud of their '정밀 기술' (precision technology). Using this word shows you appreciate this aspect of Korean culture and industry.

Accuracy vs Precision

Remember: Accurate (정확) = Right. Precise (정밀) = Detailed/Tight. A target can be hit accurately, but the weapon itself is a precision instrument.

Hanja Help

The 'Mil' in '정밀' is the same as in '비밀' (secret). Just like a secret is 'tightly kept', something '정밀' is 'tightly made'.

Academic Essays

When writing for TOPIK II, use '정밀하다' to describe research methods or scientific results to gain higher points for vocabulary.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of 'Jeong' as 'Just' and 'Mil' as 'Millimeter'. It needs to be 'Just' right, down to the 'Millimeter'. Jeong-Mil-Hada!

Visual Association

Imagine a watchmaker using a tiny magnifying glass to place a microscopic gear into a watch. That act is '정밀하다'.

Word Web

Precision Technical Detail Accuracy Hanja: 精 (Refined) Hanja: 密 (Dense) Medical: 정밀 검사 Engineering: 정밀 기계

Challenge

Try to find three items in your room that are '정밀하다'. A smartphone? A mechanical pencil? A detailed map? Say '이것은 정밀하다' for each one.

Word Origin

Derived from the Hanja characters 精 (정) and 密 (밀). 精 relates to 'refined rice' or 'essence', implying something that has been processed to its purest form. 密 relates to 'dense' or 'secret', implying things are packed tightly together.

Original meaning: Originally referred to something that is both refined (pure) and densely packed (no gaps).

Sino-Korean (Hanja-based)

Cultural Context

No specific sensitivities. It is a very safe, professional word.

In English, we might use 'detailed', 'precise', or 'accurate' interchangeably, but '정밀하다' is much more formal and technical than 'detailed'.

Samsung Electronics' marketing often highlights '정밀 공정' (precision processes). K-Dramas featuring forensic investigators (like 'Signal' or 'Stranger') frequently use '정밀 감식'. The phrase '정밀 타격' is used in Korean news regarding North Korean missile defense.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

At the Hospital

정밀 검사가 필요합니다.
결과가 아주 정밀하게 나왔어요.
정밀 진단을 받아보세요.
정밀 초음파 예약할게요.

At a Factory/Engineering Firm

이 부품은 정밀함이 생명입니다.
정밀 기계를 다룰 줄 아세요?
정밀 가공 공정을 확인하세요.
오차 없이 정밀하게 깎으세요.

Art Class

정밀 묘사를 연습해 봅시다.
선이 아주 정밀하네요.
정밀하게 그리는 것이 중요해요.
세부 묘사가 아주 정밀합니다.

Scientific Research

데이터가 매우 정밀합니다.
정밀 분석을 실시했습니다.
정밀한 측정이 요구됩니다.
변수를 정밀하게 통제하세요.

Crime/News Reporting

정밀 감식 결과가 나왔습니다.
현장을 정밀하게 수색했습니다.
정밀 조사가 진행 중입니다.
정밀 타격으로 목표를 제거했습니다.

Conversation Starters

"이 시계 디자인이 정말 정밀하지 않나요?"

"최근에 병원에서 정밀 검사를 받아본 적 있어요?"

"정밀 기계 산업이 한국 경제에서 왜 중요할까요?"

"예술 작품 중에서 어떤 것이 가장 정밀하다고 생각하세요?"

"자율 주행을 위해 왜 정밀 지도가 필요할까요?"

Journal Prompts

오늘 내가 한 일 중에서 가장 정밀하게(꼼꼼하게) 처리한 일은 무엇인가요?

내가 사용하는 물건 중에서 가장 정밀하다고 느끼는 것은 무엇인가요? 그 이유는?

정밀한 계획을 세우는 것과 유연하게 행동하는 것 중 무엇이 더 중요할까요?

미래에는 어떤 기술이 더 정밀해질 것이라고 생각하나요?

정밀한 그림을 그리는 것과 추상적인 그림을 그리는 것 중 어느 쪽을 더 선호하나요?

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

Generally, no. To describe a person who is careful with details, use '꼼꼼하다'. If you want to say someone is very logical and thorough, use '치밀하다'. You only use '정밀하다' for the work they produce, like '그의 작업은 정밀하다'.

'진찰' is a general check-up or consultation by a doctor. '정밀 검사' is a detailed medical test involving advanced equipment like MRI or blood analysis to find specific issues.

It is less common in casual talk than '자세하다', but you will see it every day in advertisements for tech products, on hospital signs, or in the news.

You use '정밀' (noun) or '정밀도' (degree of precision). For example, '정밀도가 높다' means 'The precision is high'.

Yes, specifically for '정밀 묘사', which is a style of hyper-realistic drawing where every tiny detail is captured.

Yes, it is almost always positive, implying high quality, expert skill, and reliability.

It uses 精 (Refined/Essence) and 密 (Dense/Close). Thinking of 'refined and dense' helps remember its meaning of high-quality detail.

Yes, '정밀한 지도' is a very common expression for a map that shows tiny details like small alleys or building shapes.

Not exactly. 'Accurate' is '정확하다'. 'Precise/Detailed' is '정밀하다'. A clock that is '정확하다' tells the right time. A clock that is '정밀하다' has very complex and tiny parts.

'상세하게' is usually for explanations (talking/writing). '정밀하게' is for actions like measuring, cutting, or analyzing data technically.