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A2 noun 12 min read

자랑

jarang

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips 자랑 in 30 Seconds

Explanation 자랑 in your Level:

At the A1 level, you can think of '자랑' as a simple noun for 'pride' or 'something good to show'. You will mostly see it used with the verb '하다' (to do) as '자랑하다' (to boast/show off). For example, if you have a new phone, you might '자랑해요' (show it off) to your friends. At this stage, just remember that '자랑' is used when you are happy about something and want to tell others. It is a common word in family topics, like '자식 자랑' (pride in children). You don't need to worry about complex nuances yet; just use it for the act of showing off something you like. It's often used in very simple sentences like '이거 제 자랑이에요' (This is my pride).

At the A2 level, you should start using '자랑' in more complete sentences with appropriate particles. The most common pattern is '[Object] + 을/를 자랑하다'. You should also learn the related adjective '자랑스럽다', which means 'to be proud'. For instance, '나는 동생이 자랑스러워요' (I am proud of my younger sibling). At this level, you can use '자랑' to talk about your hobbies, your hometown, or your achievements in a basic way. You might also encounter '자랑거리', which means 'a source of pride' or 'something to boast about'. Understanding that '자랑' can be both a positive expression of joy and a slightly negative 'bragging' depending on the tone is helpful at this stage.

At the B1 level, you should be able to distinguish between '자랑' and other related words like '자부심' (internal pride). You will notice '자랑' used in more idiomatic ways, such as '자랑 삼아' (for the sake of boasting) or '자랑은 아니지만' (it's not a boast, but...). This level requires you to understand the social etiquette of using the word. In Korea, being too direct with '자랑' can seem rude, so B1 learners should practice using humble openers. You will also see '자랑' in marketing and local tourism contexts, where a city describes its '자랑거리' (local attractions). You should be comfortable using '자랑' in both spoken conversations and simple written reflections or journal entries.

At the B2 level, you can handle the more complex social and cultural implications of '자랑'. You understand that '자랑' is often linked to the concept of 'Chemyeon' (face) and 'Jeong' (social bonding). You can use the word in professional contexts, such as a job interview, where you might be asked to talk about your '자랑할 만한 성과' (achievements worth boasting about). You should also be able to recognize when someone is using '자랑' in a sarcastic or mocking way. At this level, your vocabulary expands to include synonyms like '뽐내다' (to show off/display) and '과시하다' (to manifest/display wealth or power), and you can choose the most appropriate word based on the context's formality and intent.

At the C1 level, you possess a deep understanding of '자랑' as it appears in literature, news editorials, and high-level social commentary. You can analyze how '자랑' is used to construct national or group identity. You are familiar with more obscure or academic terms like '긍지' (lofty pride) and can explain the subtle differences between '자랑', '자부심', and '자존심' (self-respect/ego). You can use '자랑' in sophisticated sentence structures, incorporating advanced grammar like '-을 자랑으로 여기다' (to consider as one's pride). You also understand the historical context of how '자랑' has been used in Korean culture to maintain social hierarchies or to foster community spirit during difficult times.

At the C2 level, you have near-native intuition regarding the use of '자랑'. You can use the word and its derivatives with perfect mastery of tone, register, and cultural subtext. You can engage in complex debates about the 'culture of boasting' in the age of social media, using '자랑' alongside terms like '허세' (bluff) and '물질주의' (materialism). You can appreciate the word's use in poetry or classical prose, where it might take on more archaic or metaphorical meanings. For a C2 learner, '자랑' is not just a vocabulary word but a window into the Korean psyche, representing the balance between individual achievement and the social need for recognition.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

자랑 in 30 Seconds

자랑 means 'pride' or 'boasting' and is used to show off achievements or possessions.
It is commonly used as a noun with '하다' (자랑하다) or '스럽다' (자랑스럽다).
Cultural context is important; modesty is valued, so boasting is often softened with humble phrases.
It can describe individual pride or the pride of a group, city, or nation.

The Korean word 자랑 (Jarang) is a versatile noun that primarily translates to 'pride' or 'boast' in English. However, its usage in Korean culture is deeply nuanced, reflecting a spectrum from healthy self-satisfaction to social display. At its core, it describes the act of showing off something one is proud of, whether it be a skill, a possession, a relationship, or an achievement. Unlike some English equivalents that might carry a purely negative connotation of 'bragging,' 자랑 is frequently used in positive contexts, such as a parent expressing pride in their child's hard work or a student sharing a good grade with their family.

Social Context: In Korean society, expressing pride is often a communal activity. People use '자랑' to bond over successes, though there is a delicate balance to maintain to avoid appearing arrogant (거만하다). For example, '자식 자랑' (pride in one's children) is a common social lubricant among older generations.

우리 아들은 제 자랑이에요. (My son is my pride.)

The word functions as a noun, but it is most frequently paired with the verb 하다 to form 자랑하다 (to boast/show off). When you use this word, you are highlighting the value of something in your life. It is not just about the object itself, but the emotional connection and the desire for validation from others. In modern digital spaces, you will see this word used in hashtags like #자랑스타그램 (Jarang-stagram) where users post photos of new purchases or travel experiences.

Emotional Nuance: The feeling behind '자랑' is one of 'satisfaction' (만족감) and 'honor' (영광). It is the outward expression of an inner sense of worth. When you '자랑' something, you are inviting others to share in your happiness, though the listener's perspective determines if it is perceived as 'boasting' or 'sharing joy'.

새로 산 차를 친구들에게 자랑했어요. (I showed off my newly bought car to my friends.)

Furthermore, '자랑' can be used to describe the 'pride' of a specific place or group. For instance, a small town might have a famous tree that is the '자랑' of the village. In this sense, it translates more closely to 'famed feature' or 'prized possession' of a collective identity. It represents the best version of what a group has to offer the world.

이 공원은 우리 동네의 큰 자랑거리입니다. (This park is a great source of pride for our neighborhood.)

Grammatical Flexibility: As a noun, it often takes the object marker '-을/를' before the verb '하다'. It can also be used as a subject with '-이/가' to say something 'is' a pride. It often combines with words like '거리' (material/source) to make '자랑거리' (something to be proud of).

그는 자신의 성취를 자랑스럽게 여깁니다. (He considers his achievements proudly.)

In summary, '자랑' is a multi-faceted word that encapsulates the human desire to be recognized and the joy of possessing something valuable. Whether you are talking about your family, your hometown, or your personal skills, '자랑' is the bridge between your internal satisfaction and your external expression.

Using 자랑 correctly requires understanding its grammatical role as a noun and how it interacts with different verbs and particles. The most common structure is [Noun] + 을/를 + 자랑하다, which means 'to boast about [Noun]' or 'to show off [Noun]'. This is the standard way to express the action of telling others about something positive in your life.

Common Pattern 1: [Object] 자랑을 하다: This emphasizes the act of boasting itself. For example, '동생 자랑을 해요' means 'I am bragging about my younger sibling.' The focus is on the communication of pride.

그녀는 새로 산 가방을 친구들에게 자랑했다. (She showed off her new bag to her friends.)

Another frequent construction is [Noun] + 이/가 + 자랑이다, which translates to '[Noun] is (my/our) pride.' Here, the noun '자랑' acts as the predicate. This is often used when talking about family members, achievements, or local landmarks that represent the best of a group or person.

Common Pattern 2: 자랑거리 (Source of Pride): The suffix '-거리' means 'material' or 'topic'. So, '자랑거리' refers to the specific thing or topic that one boasts about. '그는 자랑거리가 참 많다' (He has many things to be proud of).

이 학교의 자랑은 훌륭한 도서관입니다. (The pride of this school is its excellent library.)

In more formal or literary contexts, you might see 자랑으로 여기다 (to consider as pride/to take pride in). This elevates the tone and suggests a deep-seated feeling of honor rather than just casual boasting. It is used when discussing national identity, historical heritage, or significant personal virtues.

그는 정직함을 자신의 가장 큰 자랑으로 여긴다. (He considers honesty his greatest pride.)

Common Pattern 3: 자랑 삼아 (For the sake of boasting): The particle '-삼아' indicates a purpose or a manner. '자랑 삼아 이야기하다' means to talk about something with the intention of showing off, often used to describe someone's motivation for sharing information.

그는 자랑 삼아 자신의 성적표를 보여주었다. (He showed his report card for the sake of boasting.)

When using '자랑', pay attention to the listener. In Korean culture, modesty is a virtue, so people often use phrases like '자랑은 아니지만...' (It's not a boast, but...) before sharing something positive. This softens the impact and makes the speaker seem more humble while still getting to share their good news.

자랑할 만한 일이 생기면 꼭 알려주세요. (If something worth boasting about happens, please let me know.)

Mastering these patterns allows you to express not only what you have achieved but also how you value those achievements in relation to others. Whether you are being humble or being bold, '자랑' provides the linguistic framework for sharing your highlights.

The word 자랑 is ubiquitous in Korean daily life, appearing in various media, social interactions, and even formal speeches. Understanding the context in which it appears helps in grasping the cultural weight it carries. From the 'bragging' culture of social media to the humble pride of a parent, '자랑' is everywhere.

Social Media and 'Jarang-stagram': On platforms like Instagram, the term '자랑' is used constantly. Users post photos of delicious meals, luxury items, or fitness progress with captions like '오늘의 자랑' (Today's boast). This has evolved into a specific digital subculture where showing off is the primary activity.

인스타그램에 새로 산 신발 자랑 사진을 올렸어요. (I posted a photo showing off my new shoes on Instagram.)

In television and variety shows, '자랑' is a common segment theme. Shows often invite guests to '자랑' about their unique talents or their famous friends. There is a famous segment called '팔불출' (Pal-bul-chul), which refers to someone who can't stop bragging about their spouse or children. It's used affectionately but also slightly mockingly to describe someone who is 'fools for their family'.

Family Gatherings (Myeongjeol): During holidays like Chuseok or Seollal, '자랑' is a major part of the conversation. Relatives often '자랑' about their children's university entrance, job promotions, or marriages. This is a source of both pride and stress for many younger Koreans.

명절에 친척들이 모이면 자식 자랑이 끊이지 않아요. (When relatives gather on holidays, the boasting about children never ends.)

You will also hear '자랑' in tourism and marketing. Every city in Korea has its '우리 고장 자랑' (The pride of our region). This includes local specialties (특산물), historical sites, or natural beauty. In this context, it is used to instill a sense of local identity and to attract visitors.

이 비빔밥은 전주의 큰 자랑입니다. (This bibimbap is a great pride of Jeonju.)

Workplace and Professionalism: In job interviews, you might be asked to talk about your '자랑거리' (achievements to be proud of). Here, it is an invitation to sell yourself. However, in the daily office environment, overt '자랑' about one's salary or connections is usually considered poor etiquette.

면접에서 자신의 강점을 자랑해 보세요. (Try to boast about your strengths in the interview.)

Whether it's the humble brag of a friend or the grand statement of a city, '자랑' is the word Koreans use to spotlight excellence. Hearing it tells you what the speaker values most in that moment.

While 자랑 is a common word, learners often trip over its nuances and grammatical requirements. One of the most frequent errors is confusing the noun 자랑 with the adjective 자랑스럽다 (to be proud). In English, 'pride' and 'proud' are closely related, but in Korean, their usage patterns are quite different.

Mistake 1: Confusing '자랑' with '자부심': Learners often use '자랑' when they mean 'self-esteem' or 'internal pride' (자부심). '자랑' is usually outward-facing—it's about showing off. '자부심' is the internal feeling of pride in one's work or identity. You wouldn't say you have '자랑' in your work; you have '자부심'.

나는 내 직업에 자랑이 있다. (Incorrect)
나는 내 직업에 자부심이 있다. (Correct - I have pride in my job.)

Another common mistake is using the wrong particle with 자랑하다. Because '자랑' involves telling someone else, learners often want to use the dative particle '-에게' (to) for the object being boasted about. However, the thing you are boasting about is the direct object and must take '-을/를'.

Mistake 2: Overusing '자랑' in formal settings: In very formal business presentations, saying '우리 회사를 자랑하겠습니다' (I will boast about our company) can sound slightly childish or overly informal. Instead, professionals use terms like '소개하겠습니다' (I will introduce) or '강점을 말씀드리겠습니다' (I will speak of our strengths).

저희 제품을 자랑하겠습니다. (Sounds like: I'm going to brag about our product.)

Learners also struggle with the difference between 자랑스럽다 and 자랑하다. '자랑스럽다' is a state/feeling (to be proud), while '자랑하다' is an action (to boast). You cannot use '자랑하다' to describe how you feel about your parents unless you are actively telling people how great they are.

Mistake 3: Misunderstanding Negative Connotations: If you say someone '자랑이 심하다' (their boasting is severe), it is a criticism. Learners sometimes use this phrase thinking they are praising someone's many achievements, but it actually means the person is annoying others with their bragging.

그 사람은 자기 자랑이 너무 심해요. (That person brags way too much. - Negative)

Finally, watch out for the spelling. It is often confused with '저랑' (with me). They sound similar in fast speech, but '자랑' (pride) and '저랑' (with me) have completely different meanings. '저랑 자랑해요' would mean 'Boast with me,' which is a very strange sentence!

친구랑 자랑을 했어요. (I boasted with a friend. - Correct but redundant.)

By avoiding these common pitfalls, you can use '자랑' to express pride effectively without sounding unnatural or accidentally offending your listeners.

In Korean, there are several words that share the semantic space of 'pride' and 'boasting' with 자랑. Choosing the right one depends on the level of formality, the intent of the speaker, and whether the connotation is positive or negative. Understanding these synonyms will help you refine your expression.

자랑 vs. 뽐내다 (To show off/Display): '뽐내다' is a verb that focuses on the physical or visible act of showing off. While '자랑하다' is often verbal (telling people), '뽐내다' can be walking proudly in new clothes or displaying a skill. It often has a slightly more 'showy' or 'flashy' nuance.

그는 새 옷을 입고 거리를 뽐내며 걸었다. (He walked down the street showing off his new clothes.)

For a more internal, psychological sense of pride, 자부심 (Jabusim) is the preferred term. This refers to 'self-respect' or 'pride in one's identity/work'. It is almost always positive and is not about showing off to others but about how you feel inside. Professionals often speak of their 'professional pride' using this word.

자랑 vs. 허세 (Bluff/Pretense): If '자랑' is based on actual facts, '허세' is boasting about things you don't really have or exaggerating your importance. It is a negative term often used to describe people who act tougher or richer than they actually are.

그의 말은 다 허세일 뿐이에요. (His words are just a bluff.)

Another related term is 긍지 (Geungji). This is a very formal and noble word for pride, often used in nationalistic or high-level organizational contexts. It implies a sense of dignity and honor. You might hear it in military or academic ceremonies: '대한민국 국민으로서의 긍지' (Pride as a citizen of the Republic of Korea).

자랑 vs. 과시 (Display/Ostentation): '과시' (Gwasi) is often used in terms like '과시욕' (desire to show off). It has a more academic or psychological tone and often implies a negative desire to impress others with wealth or power. '부의 과시' (display of wealth) is a common phrase.

그는 부를 과시하기 위해 비싼 시계를 샀다. (He bought an expensive watch to display his wealth.)

Lastly, there is the term 생색 (Saengsaek). This specifically refers to 'taking credit' for something or making sure everyone knows you did a favor. '생색내지 마' (Don't try to take credit/Don't act like you did something huge) is a common rebuke when someone '자랑' about a small favor they did.

도와준 건 고맙지만 너무 생색내지는 마세요. (Thanks for the help, but don't act like it's such a big deal.)

By learning these variations, you can navigate the complex social landscape of Korean pride with precision, choosing the exact word that fits your situation.

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

The suffix '-질' can be added to '자랑' to make '자랑질', which is a slangy, negative way to say 'bragging'. It implies the person is doing it too much or in an annoying way.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /d͡za.ɾaŋ/

US /d͡ʒɑ.ɾɑŋ/

The stress is balanced, but the first syllable '자' is slightly more emphasized in declarative speech.

Rhymes With

사랑 (Sarang - Love) 파랑 (Parang - Blue) 노랑 (Norang - Yellow) 바람 (Baram - Wind - near rhyme) 사람 (Saram - Person - near rhyme) 가랑 (Garang - Crotch/Thin) 이랑 (Irang - Furrow/With) 회랑 (Hwerang - Corridor)

Common Errors

Pronouncing '자' like 'za' (voiced alveolar fricative). It should be a soft 'ja'.
Pronouncing '랑' like 'lang' with a heavy 'L'. It is a tapped 'R'.
Confusing with '저랑' (jeo-rang) which means 'with me'.
Over-nasalizing the 'ng' so it sounds like 'rang-eo'.
Failing to distinguish the 'a' sound clearly in both syllables.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 2/5

The word is common and easy to recognize in text.

Writing 3/5

Requires correct particle usage (을/를 vs 이/가).

Speaking 3/5

Must balance tone to avoid sounding arrogant.

Listening 2/5

Clear pronunciation, but sounds like '저랑'.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

하다 좋다 친구 가족 말하다

Learn Next

자랑스럽다 자부심 겸손 과시 뽐내다

Advanced

자화자찬 팔불출 허세 긍지 명예

Grammar to Know

-을/를 자랑하다

성공을 자랑하다 (To boast about success)

-이/가 자랑이다

이 아들이 제 자랑입니다 (This son is my pride)

-자랑스럽다 (Adjective)

자랑스러운 결과 (A proud result)

-자랑거리 (Noun compound)

서울의 자랑거리 (The pride of Seoul)

-자랑삼아 (Adverbial)

자랑삼아 보여주다 (To show for the sake of boasting)

Examples by Level

이것은 제 자랑이에요.

This is my pride.

Simple [Noun] + 이에요 structure.

친구에게 새 가방을 자랑해요.

I show off my new bag to my friend.

Object marker 을/를 with 자랑하다.

우리 엄마 자랑을 해요.

I brag about my mom.

자랑을 하다 emphasizes the act of boasting.

자랑하지 마세요.

Please don't boast.

Negative command -지 마세요.

제 동생은 우리 집의 자랑입니다.

My younger sibling is the pride of our house.

Formal ending -입니다.

강아지 자랑 사진이에요.

This is a photo showing off my puppy.

Noun + Noun compound.

한국어 실력을 자랑해요.

I show off my Korean skills.

Abstract object with 자랑하다.

작은 자랑이 있어요.

I have a small boast.

Adjective + Noun structure.

새로 산 차를 친구들에게 자랑했어요.

I showed off my newly bought car to my friends.

Past tense -았/었/했어요.

자랑할 만한 일이 생겼어요.

Something worth boasting about happened.

-을 만하다 (worth doing).

부모님은 저를 자랑스럽게 생각하세요.

My parents think of me proudly.

자랑스럽게 (adverbial form) + 생각하다.

이 공원은 우리 마을의 큰 자랑거리예요.

This park is a big source of pride for our village.

자랑거리 (source/topic of pride).

너무 자랑하지 않는 것이 좋아요.

It is good not to boast too much.

Gerund form -는 것 + 이 좋다.

어제는 동생 자랑을 많이 들었어요.

Yesterday, I heard a lot of boasting about my sibling.

자랑을 듣다 (to hear a boast).

그는 자신의 요리 실력을 자랑했다.

He boasted about his cooking skills.

Plain style -ㄴ/는다 for narrative.

자랑은 아니지만 시험에서 100점을 받았어요.

It's not a boast, but I got 100 on the exam.

자랑은 아니지만 (common humble opening).

그는 자랑 삼아 자신의 비싼 시계를 보여주었다.

He showed his expensive watch for the sake of boasting.

-삼아 (as a/for the sake of).

아이들의 성취는 부모에게 큰 자랑이 된다.

Children's achievements become a great pride for parents.

자랑이 되다 (to become a pride).

우리 회사는 기술력을 자랑으로 여깁니다.

Our company considers its technology as its pride.

-을 자랑으로 여기다 (to take pride in).

자랑할 것이 없어서 조금 슬펐어요.

I was a bit sad because I had nothing to boast about.

-을 것이 없다 (nothing to...).

그녀는 남편 자랑에 여념이 없었다.

She was completely absorbed in boasting about her husband.

-에 여념이 없다 (to be absorbed in).

자기 자랑만 하는 사람을 좋아하는 사람은 없어요.

No one likes a person who only talks about themselves.

자기 자랑 (self-boasting).

이 도시는 아름다운 야경을 자랑합니다.

This city boasts a beautiful night view.

Formal use of 자랑하다 in tourism.

자랑스러운 아들이 되기 위해 노력하고 있어요.

I am working hard to become a proud son.

자랑스러운 (adjective form).

자랑이 지나치면 다른 사람의 질투를 살 수 있다.

Excessive boasting can incite jealousy in others.

지나치면 (if excessive) + -을 살 수 있다 (can incur/buy).

그는 자신의 출신 학교를 자랑스럽게 내세웠다.

He proudly put forward his alma mater.

내세우다 (to put forward/assert).

한국은 유구한 역사를 자랑하는 나라입니다.

Korea is a country that boasts a long history.

-을 자랑하는 (noun-modifying form).

그녀의 자랑은 결코 허풍이 아니었다.

Her boast was by no means a bluff.

허풍 (bluff/exaggeration).

성공의 비결을 자랑하듯 이야기했다.

He talked as if boasting about the secret of his success.

-하듯 (as if).

자랑거리라고는 이것 하나뿐입니다.

This is the only thing I have to be proud of.

-라고는 (as for... - emphasizing limitation).

자기 자랑은 겸손하지 못한 행동으로 비춰질 수 있다.

Self-boasting can be seen as immodest behavior.

-로 비춰지다 (to be reflected/seen as).

그는 가문 대대로 내려오는 보검을 자랑했다.

He boasted about the precious sword passed down through generations.

가문 대대로 (through generations of the family).

예술가는 자신의 작품을 통해 내면의 자랑을 표출한다.

Artists express their inner pride through their work.

표출하다 (to express/manifest).

지나친 자기 자랑은 오히려 자존감이 낮음을 방증한다.

Excessive self-boasting conversely proves low self-esteem.

방증하다 (to provide circumstantial evidence).

그는 민족적 자랑을 고취시키기 위해 강연을 했다.

He gave a lecture to inspire national pride.

고취시키다 (to inspire/encourage).

자랑할 만한 유산이 많다는 것은 축복이다.

Having many heritages to be proud of is a blessing.

유산 (heritage/legacy).

그의 말속에는 은근한 자랑이 섞여 있었다.

There was a subtle boast mixed into his words.

은근한 (subtle/hidden).

자랑의 대상이 무엇이냐에 따라 그 사람의 가치관을 알 수 있다.

Depending on what the object of pride is, one can know that person's values.

-에 따라 (depending on).

그는 자신의 성취를 굳이 자랑하려 들지 않았다.

He did not particularly try to boast about his achievements.

-하려 들다 (to try to/be inclined to).

과거의 영광을 자랑하는 것만으로는 미래를 열 수 없다.

You cannot open the future just by boasting of past glory.

-는 것만으로는 (just by doing...).

자랑은 때로 타인의 열등감을 자극하는 독이 되기도 한다.

Boasting sometimes becomes a poison that stimulates others' inferiority complexes.

자극하다 (to stimulate/provoke).

그는 자신의 학문적 성과를 겸손이라는 미덕 뒤에 자랑스럽게 숨겼다.

He proudly hid his academic achievements behind the virtue of humility.

미덕 (virtue).

진정한 자랑은 입이 아닌 행동으로 증명되는 법이다.

True pride is something that is proven through actions, not the mouth.

-는 법이다 (it is the rule/way that...).

집단적 자랑이 배타주의로 흐르지 않도록 경계해야 한다.

We must be wary so that collective pride does not flow into exclusivism.

배타주의 (exclusivism) + 경계하다 (to be wary of).

문학 작품에서 자랑은 등장인물의 허영심을 묘사하는 장치로 쓰인다.

In literary works, boasting is used as a device to describe a character's vanity.

허영심 (vanity) + 장치 (device/mechanism).

그의 자랑은 공허한 메아리처럼 허공에 흩어졌다.

His boast scattered in the air like an empty echo.

공허한 (empty/hollow) + 메아리 (echo).

자랑할 수 있는 권리는 오직 피땀 어린 노력 끝에 얻어진다.

The right to boast is obtained only after blood, sweat, and tears.

피땀 어린 (full of blood and sweat).

그는 자신의 실패마저도 삶의 훈장처럼 자랑스럽게 이야기했다.

He spoke proudly of even his failures, like medals of life.

훈장 (medal/decoration).

Common Collocations

자랑을 늘어놓다

자랑거리로 삼다

자랑할 만하다

자랑이 심하다

자식 자랑

고향 자랑

자랑을 듣다

자랑스럽게 여기다

자랑을 멈추다

자랑에 빠지다

Common Phrases

자랑은 아니지만

— It's not a boast, but... Used to introduce good news humbly.

자랑은 아니지만 이번에 장학금을 받았어요.

자랑 좀 할게요

— Let me boast a bit. A polite way to share good news.

오늘 우리 아기 자랑 좀 할게요.

자랑할 게 없어요

— I have nothing to boast about. Used to express humility.

저는 평범해서 자랑할 게 없어요.

자랑이 아니에요

— It's not something to be proud of. Used for negative things.

늦잠 자는 건 자랑이 아니야.

자랑할 만한 일

— Something worth boasting about.

자랑할 만한 일이 생기면 꼭 말해줘.

자랑스럽게 생각하다

— To think of something/someone proudly.

선생님은 제자들을 자랑스럽게 생각하신다.

자랑을 늘어놓다

— To rattle on with boasts; to brag endlessly.

술만 마시면 자기 자랑을 늘어놓는다.

자랑거리

— A source of pride; something to brag about.

이 요리는 제 유일한 자랑거리예요.

자랑 삼아

— For the sake of boasting.

그는 자랑 삼아 영어를 유창하게 했다.

자랑을 하다

— To boast or show off.

새 신발을 자랑하러 학교에 갔다.

Often Confused With

자랑 vs 저랑

Means 'with me'. Sounds similar but used with verbs of movement or action together.

자랑 vs 사랑

Means 'love'. Rhymes with 자랑 and can be confused in noisy environments.

자랑 vs 자랑질

The negative/slang version of bragging. Use with caution.

Idioms & Expressions

"팔불출"

— A fool who constantly brags about their spouse, children, or themselves.

그는 아내 자랑만 하는 팔불출이다.

Informal

"제 논에 물 대기"

— Similar to 'boasting for one's own benefit' or 'self-serving pride'.

그의 말은 결국 제 논에 물 대기 식의 자랑이다.

Literary

"자화자찬"

— Self-praise; praising oneself.

그의 연설은 자화자찬으로 가득했다.

Formal

"입에 침이 마르도록 자랑하다"

— To boast so much that one's mouth goes dry.

그는 손주 자랑을 입에 침이 마르도록 했다.

Idiomatic

"자랑이 하늘을 찌르다"

— One's pride/boasting reaches the sky (extremely high).

그의 기세와 자랑이 하늘을 찌른다.

Metaphorical

"빈 수레가 요란하다"

— An empty cart makes more noise (people with little merit brag more).

자랑이 심한 걸 보니 빈 수레가 요란한 격이다.

Proverb

"자랑을 늘어지게 하다"

— To boast in a long, drawn-out manner.

그는 자기 성공담을 자랑을 늘어지게 했다.

Informal

"자랑거리를 만들다"

— To create something to be proud of.

이번 프로젝트에서 자랑거리를 만들어 보자.

Neutral

"자랑으로 삼다"

— To use something as a point of pride.

그는 정직을 일생의 자랑으로 삼았다.

Formal

"자랑이 대단하다"

— One's boasting is significant/intense.

그 집 아들 자랑이 아주 대단하더라고요.

Neutral

Easily Confused

자랑 vs 자부심

Both translate to 'pride'.

자랑 is outward boasting; 자부심 is internal self-esteem.

자랑을 늘어놓다 vs 자부심을 느끼다

자랑 vs 자존심

Both relate to self-worth.

자존심 is ego or self-respect (often defensive); 자랑 is displaying excellence.

자존심을 굽히다 vs 자랑을 하다

자랑 vs 뽐내다

Both mean show off.

뽐내다 is more about visual display or physical action; 자랑하다 is more about verbal boasting.

옷을 뽐내다 vs 성적을 자랑하다

자랑 vs 허세

Both involve showing off.

허세 is fake or exaggerated; 자랑 is usually based on something real.

그의 말은 허세다 vs 그의 자랑은 사실이다

자랑 vs 과시

Both mean display.

과시 is more formal and often implies a negative desire for status.

힘을 과시하다 vs 아들을 자랑하다

Sentence Patterns

이것은 [Noun] 자랑이에요.

이것은 제 아들 자랑이에요.

[Object]을/를 자랑해요.

새 차를 자랑해요.

[Person]이/가 자랑스러워요.

동생이 자랑스러워요.

자랑은 아니지만 [Sentence].

자랑은 아니지만 제가 다 만들었어요.

[Noun]은/는 [Place]의 자랑거리예요.

불고기는 한국의 자랑거리예요.

[Noun]을/를 자랑으로 여기다.

전통을 자랑으로 여깁니다.

[Noun]을/를 자랑삼아 이야기하다.

경력을 자랑삼아 이야기했다.

[Noun]에 대한 자랑이 끊이지 않다.

손주에 대한 자랑이 끊이지 않는다.

Word Family

Nouns

자랑거리 (source of pride)

자기자랑 (self-boasting)

자랑질 (bragging - derogatory)

Verbs

자랑하다 (to boast)

자랑스럽게 여기다 (to take pride in)

Adjectives

자랑스럽다 (to be proud)

자랑할 만하다 (to be worth boasting)

자부심 (pride/self-esteem)

긍지 (lofty pride)

허세 (bluff)

뽐내다 (to show off)

과시 (display)

How to Use It

frequency

Very common in both spoken and written Korean.

Common Mistakes

나는 내 차가 자랑한다. → 나는 내 차를 자랑한다.
The thing you boast about is a direct object and needs '-를'.
나는 너를 자랑해. → 나는 네가 자랑스러워.
To say 'I am proud of you', use the adjective '자랑스럽다'. '자랑하다' means you are telling others about the person.
이것은 제 자랑스러운입니다. → 이것은 제 자랑입니다.
You cannot use the adjective form '자랑스러운' as a noun. Use '자랑'.
그는 자기 자랑이 겸손하다. → 그는 자기 자랑이 심하다.
'겸손' (humble) is the opposite of '자랑'. You would say he brags 'a lot' (심하다).
저랑을 많이 했어요. → 자랑을 많이 했어요.
Confusing '저랑' (with me) and '자랑' (pride).

Tips

Modesty is Key

In Korea, even if you are very proud, it is best to wait for others to praise you first. If you must boast, use humble language.

Particle Choice

Always use '-을/를' for the thing you are boasting about. Don't use '-이/가' with '자랑하다'.

Use Compounds

Learn '자랑거리' and '자기자랑' early, as they are used more often than the standalone noun in many contexts.

Intonation

A rising, happy intonation makes '자랑' sound like sharing joy. A flat, monotonous tone can sound like annoying bragging.

Hashtags

Search for #자랑스타그램 on Instagram to see how real Koreans use the word to show off their lives.

Jarang vs Jabusim

Remember: Jarang is for people to see; Jabusim is for you to feel.

Formal Boasting

In professional settings, use '강점' (strength) or '성과' (achievement) instead of '자랑' to sound more mature.

Pal-bul-chul

If someone calls you a '팔불출', take it as a lighthearted joke about you loving your family too much.

Context Clues

If you hear '자랑' followed by a list of achievements, it's a boast. If it's followed by a person, it's pride.

Humble Openers

Always use '자랑은 아니지만' when writing about your accomplishments in a blog or letter to Korean friends.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of a 'Jar' full of 'Ang' (Gold). You want to show your 'Jar-Ang' to everyone because you are proud of it!

Visual Association

Imagine someone holding a trophy high in the air while a crowd cheers. That trophy is their '자랑'.

Word Web

가족 성공 트로피 칭찬 기쁨 인스타그램 친구 자부심

Challenge

Try to tell a friend one thing you are proud of today using the phrase '제 자랑은 [Noun]이에요'.

Word Origin

자랑 is a pure Korean (Native) word. It does not have a direct Hanja (Chinese character) root, though many related words like '자부심' (自負心) do.

Original meaning: Historically, it referred to the act of revealing or displaying something excellent to others.

Koreanic (Native Korean)

Cultural Context

Be careful not to '자랑' too much about wealth in front of those struggling, as it can be seen as 'gap질' (power tripping) or lack of empathy.

In English, 'pride' can be internal, while 'boasting' is the outward act. '자랑' covers both but leans toward the outward act.

KBS 'National Singing Contest' (전국노래자랑) - A legendary show where people boast their talents. The term '팔불출' in variety shows to describe family-obsessed boasters. Hashtag #자랑스타그램 on Korean social media.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Social Media

오늘의 자랑
자랑스타그램
득템 자랑
여행 자랑

Family Gathering

자식 자랑
손주 자랑
남편 자랑
아내 자랑

Job Interview

나의 자랑거리
자랑할 만한 성과
강점을 자랑하다

Tourism/Marketing

우리 고장 자랑
특산물 자랑
전통을 자랑하다

Daily Chat

자랑은 아니지만
자랑 좀 할게
자랑하지 마

Conversation Starters

"요즘 가장 자랑하고 싶은 일이 뭐예요? (What is something you want to boast about most lately?)"

"당신의 고향은 무엇을 자랑하나요? (What does your hometown boast about?)"

"자랑스러운 한국어 실력을 보여주세요! (Show off your proud Korean skills!)"

"부모님이 당신에 대해 어떤 자랑을 하시나요? (What kind of boasts do your parents make about you?)"

"자랑거리 하나만 말해줄 수 있어요? (Can you tell me one thing you're proud of?)"

Journal Prompts

오늘 내가 한 일 중에서 가장 자랑스러운 일은 무엇인가요? (What is the thing I am most proud of among the things I did today?)

나의 가장 큰 자랑거리에 대해 써 보세요. (Write about your greatest source of pride.)

누군가에게 내 장점을 자랑한다면 무엇을 말할까요? (If I were to boast about my strengths to someone, what would I say?)

자랑과 겸손의 차이에 대해 어떻게 생각하나요? (What do you think about the difference between boasting and humility?)

내가 미래에 자랑하고 싶은 성취는 무엇인가요? (What achievement do I want to boast about in the future?)

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

No, it is not. While it can mean 'bragging' (negative), it is very often used to express healthy pride in family or achievements (positive). Context and tone are key.

You should say '네가 자랑스러워' or '당신이 자랑스럽습니다'. You don't use the noun '자랑' directly for this.

It is a noun meaning 'something to be proud of' or 'a source of pride'. For example, '제 자랑거리는 요리예요' (My source of pride is cooking).

Yes, it is very common in tourism. '이 도시는 바다를 자랑합니다' (This city boasts/is proud of its sea).

It is a slang term for annoying or excessive bragging. It has a strong negative connotation.

No, '자랑' is a native Korean word. However, words like '자부심' (pride) are Hanja-based.

Start with phrases like '자랑은 아니지만...' (It's not a boast, but...) or '자랑 좀 할게요' (Let me boast a bit).

The opposite can be '겸손' (humility) or '부끄러움' (shame/shyness).

Yes, an object can be someone's '자랑'. '이 시계는 제 자랑이에요' (This watch is my pride).

No, '자랑스럽다' is an adjective (to be proud), and '자랑하다' is a verb (to boast/show off).