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Korean
Vocabulary
느긋하게

A2 adverb 10 min read

느긋하게

neugeuthage

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips 느긋하게 in 30 Seconds

Explanation 느긋하게 in your Level:

At the A1 level, learners are introduced to the basic concept of 'slowly.' While '느긋하게' might be slightly more advanced than '천천히' (slowly), it is often taught as a way to describe fun activities like eating or playing. Beginners learn that adding '-게' to an adjective makes it an adverb. At this stage, focusing on the simple translation 'leisurely' or 'relaxedly' is sufficient. You can use it to describe your weekend or your favorite hobbies. For example, 'I eat breakfast leisurely' (저는 아침을 느긋하게 먹어요). The goal is to recognize that this word describes a positive, slow pace. It is a great word to use when you want to sound more expressive than just saying 'slow.' Beginners should focus on pairing it with everyday verbs like 'eat,' 'walk,' and 'rest.' It helps build a vocabulary that isn't just functional but also expressive of feelings. Even at A1, understanding that Korean has different words for 'slow' based on the feeling involved is a big step toward natural fluency. You might see this word in basic reading passages about vacations or family life. Remember: 느긋하게 = Happy Slow.

At the A2 level, you begin to use '느긋하게' to describe habits and preferences in more detail. You can now distinguish between '천천히' (speed) and '느긋하게' (feeling). A2 learners should be able to use this word to give advice, such as 'Take your time' or 'Relax.' For example, '느긋하게 기다리세요' (Please wait leisurely/patiently). This level involves understanding that '느긋하게' is the adverb form of the adjective '느긋하다.' You will encounter it in dialogues about travel plans, where one person wants a busy schedule and the other wants to move '느긋하게.' It is also useful for describing personalities—though as an adjective (느긋한). You should practice using it in the middle of sentences to modify verbs of motion and rest. At this stage, you are also learning about the '-게' suffix more broadly, and '느긋하게' serves as a perfect example of how adjectives become adverbs to provide more color to your sentences. You might start using it to describe how you study or how you spend your holidays, moving beyond simple survival Korean into more descriptive personal narratives.

At the B1 level, you should master the nuance of '느긋하게' in various social contexts, including professional and semi-formal situations. You understand that it implies a sense of composure and confidence. For instance, in a job interview or a presentation, performing '느긋하게' is a sign of being well-prepared and not nervous. You can also use it to discuss societal trends, like the 'Slow Life' movement or the importance of mental health. B1 learners can use '느긋하게' in complex sentences with connectors like '-어서/아서' or '-(으)니까.' For example, '시간이 충분하니까 느긋하게 준비해도 돼요' (Since there is enough time, you can prepare leisurely). You also start to learn related idioms like '마음을 느긋하게 먹다' (to decide to be relaxed/patient). At this level, you can compare '느긋하게' with other adverbs like '여유롭게' (with leeway) and '차분하게' (calmly), choosing the most appropriate one for the specific feeling you want to convey. Your ability to use '느긋하게' correctly shows that you are moving past literal translations and starting to grasp the emotional landscape of the Korean language.

At the B2 level, '느긋하게' becomes a tool for nuanced expression in writing and formal speech. You understand its use in literature to create atmosphere and its role in psychological descriptions. You can use it to describe not just physical actions, but abstract processes like 'thinking leisurely' or 'observing a situation leisurely.' B2 learners are expected to understand the word's etymology (feeling satisfied/full) and how that history informs its current usage. You can use '느긋하게' to critique the fast-paced nature of modern society or to advocate for a more balanced lifestyle. In debates or discussions about culture, you might use this word to contrast the 'pali-pali' culture with traditional Korean values of patience and 'pung-ryu' (enjoying the arts and nature). You also recognize it in more sophisticated media, like news editorials or documentaries. Your usage should be precise—knowing when '느긋하게' is a compliment and when it might be used ironically. You should also be comfortable using it in various grammatical structures, such as '느긋하게나마' (even if it's just a little bit leisurely) or '느긋하게만큼' (as much as leisurely).

At the C1 level, you have a deep, intuitive grasp of '느긋하게' and its subtle connotations. You can use it to express sophisticated emotional states in creative writing or high-level professional communication. You understand how the word can be used to describe a character's temperament in a novel or the pacing of a film. You are aware of its synonyms in Hanja (Chinese characters) and can switch between '느긋하게' and more academic terms like '완만하게' or '여유있게' depending on the register. You can use the word to discuss philosophy, such as the concept of 'waiting' in different cultures. C1 learners can detect the subtle difference between '느긋하게' and '태평하게' (carefree/indifferent), where the latter can sometimes have a negative connotation of being too unconcerned. You can use '느긋하게' to add layers of meaning to your speech, perhaps using it to describe a strategic pause in a negotiation. Your mastery of this word allows you to sound like a native speaker who is not just fluent in grammar, but also in the 'feeling' (jeongseo) of the language. You can use it in complex metaphorical ways, such as 'the river of time flows leisurely.'

At the C2 level, you use '느긋하게' with the same precision and cultural depth as an educated native speaker. You are fully aware of the word's place within the broader spectrum of Korean aesthetics and social values. You can analyze its use in classical and modern literature, noting how it reflects changes in the Korean psyche over decades. You can use it in high-stakes environments to project an aura of absolute calm and authority. C2 learners can play with the word, using it in wordplay, poetry, or complex rhetorical structures. You understand the most obscure collocations and can use the word in its most abstract forms. You can also explain the word to others, including its psychological underpinnings and its relation to the Korean concept of 'han' and 'heung.' For a C2 learner, '느긋하게' is not just a vocabulary item; it's a window into the Korean way of life. You can use it to describe the pacing of a traditional 'pansori' performance or the brushstrokes in a 'sumukhwa' painting. Your command of the word is flawless, adapting perfectly to any context, from a casual chat with a friend to a formal academic lecture on linguistics or sociology.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

느긋하게 in 30 Seconds

느긋하게 means doing something in a relaxed, unhurried, and leisurely manner.
It focuses on a calm state of mind rather than just a slow physical speed.
Commonly used with verbs like resting, eating, walking, and waiting.
It is the adverbial form of the adjective '느긋하다' (to be easygoing).

The Korean adverb 느긋하게 (neugeuthage) is a beautiful expression that encapsulates the essence of being relaxed, unhurried, and completely at ease. While it is often translated as 'leisurely' or 'slowly,' it carries a much deeper psychological weight than just the speed of an action. It describes a state of mind where one is free from anxiety, pressure, or the urge to rush. In a society famously known for its 'pali-pali' (hurry-hurry) culture, 느긋하게 represents the essential counter-balance—the deliberate choice to slow down and savor the moment.

Core Nuance: Unlike '천천히' (cheoncheonhi), which simply refers to a slow physical speed, '느긋하게' implies a sense of internal peace and satisfaction. You aren't just moving slowly; you are moving slowly because you are comfortable and content.

You will hear this word most frequently in contexts involving leisure time, self-care, and social interactions. For example, on a Sunday morning, you might tell a friend that you want to eat breakfast 느긋하게. This doesn't just mean you will chew slowly; it means you will enjoy the atmosphere, the conversation, and the lack of a ticking clock. It is the linguistic equivalent of a deep, relaxing breath.

우리 오늘은 걱정 말고 느긋하게 쉬자. (Let's rest leisurely today without any worries.)

The word is derived from the adjective '느긋하다,' which describes a feeling of being full or satisfied, often to the point of being relaxed. Historically, it was used to describe the feeling of a full stomach or a mind at rest. Today, it is a key vocabulary word for anyone wanting to describe their hobbies, travel experiences, or desired lifestyle. Whether you are walking through a park, sipping a cup of hot tea, or waiting for a late friend without getting angry, you are acting 느긋하게.

Social Context: In professional settings, it can be used to advise someone not to rush a delicate task, suggesting that quality and mental clarity are more important than immediate completion.

커피 한 잔 마시면서 느긋하게 이야기해요. (Let's talk leisurely while having a cup of coffee.)

Furthermore, 느긋하게 is often paired with verbs like 기다리다 (to wait), 걷다 (to walk), and 준비하다 (to prepare). When you wait 느긋하게, you aren't checking your watch every five seconds. You are perhaps reading a book or people-watching, perfectly fine with the wait. It is a word that describes the ultimate 'cool' and 'collected' personality trait in Korean culture.

Comparison with 여유롭게: '여유롭게' (yeoyuroptge) is very similar, but '느긋하게' focuses more on the internal feeling of relaxation, while '여유롭게' often implies having 'extra' time or space to spare.

Grammatically, 느긋하게 functions as a standard adverb. It is formed by taking the stem of the adjective '느긋하다' (to be relaxed/easygoing) and adding the adverbial suffix '-게'. This suffix allows the adjective to modify a following verb. Because it describes the manner of an action, its position in a sentence is flexible, though it most commonly appears directly before the verb it modifies or after the object of the sentence.

Basic Structure: [Subject] + [Object] + [느긋하게] + [Verb]. Example: 저는 점심을 느긋하게 먹었어요. (I ate lunch leisurely.)

When using 느긋하게, the choice of verb is crucial. It pairs best with actions that can be enjoyed or extended. For instance, you wouldn't typically say '느긋하게 사고가 났다' (had an accident leisurely) because an accident is not a relaxed or desired state. Instead, use it with verbs like 즐기다 (to enjoy), 감상하다 (to appreciate/view), or 지내다 (to spend time/live).

주말에는 공원을 느긋하게 산책하는 것을 좋아해요. (On weekends, I like to take a leisurely stroll in the park.)

In more complex sentences, 느긋하게 can be used to set the tone for an entire clause. For example, '마음을 느긋하게 먹다' is a common idiomatic expression meaning 'to make up one's mind to be relaxed' or 'to take it easy.' Here, '먹다' doesn't mean 'to eat,' but 'to have/hold a certain mindset.' This is a powerful way to describe emotional regulation.

Common Verb Pairings: 1. 기다리다 (to wait) - Waiting without impatience.
2. 쉬다 (to rest) - Resting without guilt.
3. 걷다 (to walk) - Walking without a specific destination or rush.
4. 즐기다 (to enjoy) - Savoring an experience fully.

You can also use it in the imperative form to give friendly advice. If you see a friend stressing out over a deadline or a minor problem, you can say, '느긋하게 생각해' (Think about it leisurely/Take your time thinking). This sounds much more supportive and calming than simply saying '천천히 해' (Do it slowly).

시간이 많으니까 느긋하게 준비하세요. (There is plenty of time, so please prepare leisurely.)

In written Korean, such as in essays or novels, 느긋하게 is used to describe the atmosphere of a scene. A writer might describe a river flowing 느긋하게 or a cat stretching 느긋하게 under the sun. This usage helps paint a picture of tranquility and peace for the reader, engaging their senses beyond just the literal meaning of the words.

강물이 느긋하게 흘러가는 풍경이 참 아름답네요. (The scenery of the river flowing leisurely is truly beautiful.)

Understanding where 느긋하게 appears in daily life will help you grasp its practical application. One of the most common places you'll hear this word is in the context of 'healing' (힐링) travel and lifestyle programs on Korean television. Shows like 'Three Meals a Day' (삼시세끼) or 'Hyori's Homestay' (효리네 민박) frequently use this adverb to describe the slow, peaceful life away from the city. The hosts might talk about living 느긋하게 while gardening or cooking over a wood fire.

Travel and Leisure: When booking a vacation or talking to a travel agent, you might say you want to travel '느긋하게' rather than following a packed, stressful itinerary. It implies a desire for 'slow travel.'

In a cafe setting, 느긋하게 is the ultimate goal. You'll hear people say they want to sit 느긋하게 and read a book or catch up with a friend. It’s the opposite of grabbing a quick 'take-out' coffee to drink on the subway. If a cafe has a particularly comfortable atmosphere, a reviewer might write, '느긋하게 시간을 보내기 좋은 곳' (A good place to spend time leisurely).

오랜만에 친구와 카페에서 느긋하게 수다를 떨었어요. (After a long time, I had a leisurely chat with a friend at a cafe.)

Another surprising place you'll hear it is in sports commentary or gaming. If a player is performing with great composure and not rushing their moves despite high pressure, a commentator might say they are playing 느긋하게. This highlights the word's connection to confidence and mastery. If you are '느긋하게' in a high-stakes situation, it means you are in total control.

Parenting and Education: Parents are often advised to wait '느긋하게' for their children to learn and grow, rather than pushing them too hard. It’s a word associated with patience and long-term perspective.

아이의 성장을 느긋하게 지켜봐 주세요. (Please watch the child's growth leisurely/patiently.)

Finally, you will hear it in the workplace, but often as a form of relief. After a major project is finished, a manager might tell the team, '내일은 좀 느긋하게 출근하세요' (Come into work a bit leisurely tomorrow). This is a generous way of saying you can start later or take it easy because the hard work is done.

마감 기한이 연장되었으니 이제 느긋하게 작업해도 돼요. (The deadline has been extended, so you can work leisurely now.)

One of the most frequent mistakes English speakers make is using 느긋하게 interchangeably with 천천히 (slowly) in every situation. While they share some overlap, they are not synonyms. '천천히' describes the physical speed of an object or action. If you are driving a car and someone tells you to go '느긋하게,' they are telling you to relax and not worry about the time. If they tell you to go '천천히,' they are telling you to lower your speed for safety. Using '느긋하게' when you specifically mean 'low speed' can sound strange.

Mistake 1: Speed vs. Mindset: Don't say '느긋하게 말해줘' if you just want someone to speak at a slower pace so you can understand their Korean. Use '천천히 말해줘' instead. '느긋하게 말해줘' would imply you want them to speak in a relaxed, easygoing manner, which might not help your comprehension.

Another mistake is applying 느긋하게 to negative laziness. In Korean, '느긋하게' is almost always positive. It implies a healthy relaxation. If someone is being lazy or procrastinating in a way that is frustrating or irresponsible, Koreans would use words like '게으르게' (lazily) or '빈둥거리며' (idling). Calling a lazy person '느긋하다' might sound like an unintended compliment.

Incorrect: 그는 느긋하게 공부를 안 해요. (He leisurely doesn't study - sounds weird.)
Correct: 그는 게으름을 피우며 공부를 안 해요. (He is being lazy and not studying.)

Confusing '느긋하게' with '조용하게' (quietly) is also common. While relaxed environments are often quiet, '느긋하게' describes the pace and feeling, not the volume. You can have a '느긋하게' conversation in a noisy festival if you are not in a rush and are enjoying yourself, but you wouldn't say you are talking '조용하게' there.

Mistake 2: Formality and Register: While '느긋하게' is not slang, it is a very 'feeling-based' word. In a strictly formal report about logistics or mechanical speeds, you should stick to technical terms like '저속으로' (at low speed) or '완만하게' (gradually/slowly).

Lastly, remember that 느긋하게 is an adverb. Some learners try to use it as an adjective by saying '느긋하게 사람' (a leisurely person), but the correct adjective form is '느긋한 사람.' Always check whether you are describing the way something is done (adverb) or the quality of a noun (adjective).

그는 성격이 참 느긋한 편이에요. (He has a rather easygoing/relaxed personality.)

Korean is rich with words that describe the pace of life. Understanding the subtle differences between 느긋하게 and its synonyms will help you reach a higher level of fluency. The most common alternative is 여유롭게 (yeoyuroptge). While they are often interchangeable, '여유롭게' specifically highlights having 'leeway' or 'surplus'—whether that's time, money, or emotional space. If you have 10 hours to do a 1-hour job, you are working '여유롭게'. '느긋하게' focuses more on your calm internal state.

느긋하게 vs. 여유롭게: '느긋하게' = Relaxed, unhurried (Internal focus).
'여유롭게' = With plenty of room/time to spare (External/Resource focus).

Another similar word is 한가하게 (hangahage). This word is closer to 'idly' or 'leisurely' in the sense of having no work to do. If you are '한가하게' walking, it implies you have free time. If you are '느긋하게' walking, it implies you are walking in a relaxed manner, even if you might have things to do later. '한가하다' is often used to describe a quiet, unbusy season or place.

평일 오후의 공원은 참 한가하게 느껴져요. (The park on a weekday afternoon feels very quiet/leisurely.)

For a more formal or literary tone, you might encounter 유유자적하게 (yuyujajeokhage). This is a four-character idiom (Saja-seong-eo) that describes living in comfortable retirement or being free from worldly cares, often in nature. It is the 'ultimate' version of '느긋하게,' usually reserved for describing scholars or people who have successfully escaped the 'rat race.'

Comparison Table

천천히: Physical slowness (Neutral).
느긋하게: Emotional relaxation (Positive).
편안하게: Comfortable/at ease (General).
차분하게: Calmly/composedly (Focus on lack of agitation).

When you want to emphasize a lack of urgency in a slightly more casual way, you can use 느릿느릿 (neurit-neurit). This is an onomatopoeic/mimetic word (uitaeo) that describes something moving very slowly, like a turtle or a snail. Unlike '느긋하게,' this can sometimes be negative, implying that someone is being too slow or sluggish.

그는 느릿느릿 걸어서 약속 시간에 늦었어요. (He walked sluggishly and was late for the appointment.)

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

The '느' sound in Korean often appears in words related to being slow or loose, such as '느리다' (slow) or '느슨하다' (loose). It's as if the sound itself suggests a lack of tension.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /nɯ.ɡɯtʰ.a.ɡe/

US /nu.ɡut.ha.ɡe/

In Korean, stress is generally even across syllables, but a slight emphasis may fall on the first syllable '느' to start the word clearly.

Rhymes With

따뜻하게 (ttatteuthage - warmly) 깨끗하게 (kkaekkeuthage - cleanly) 반듯하게 (bandeuthage - neatly) 지긋하게 (jigeuthage - maturely/patiently) 뿌듯하게 (ppudeuthage - proudly/satisfactorily) 거뭇하게 (geomuthage - blackishly) 푸릇하게 (pureuthage - greenishly) 노릇하게 (noreuthage - yellowishly/golden brown)

Common Errors

Pronouncing '느' like '누' (rounded lips). Keep your lips flat.
Pronouncing '하게' like 'hage' in 'page'. It should be 'hah-geh'.
Skipping the 't' sound at the end of '느긋'. It is a 'stopped' t sound.
Over-emphasizing the 'h' in '하게'. It should flow smoothly from the 't'.
Mixing up the 'ㅡ' and 'ㅣ' sounds.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 2/5

Easy to recognize in texts. The suffix -게 is a clear marker for an adverb.

Writing 3/5

Requires understanding of where to place the adverb in a sentence.

Speaking 3/5

The pronunciation of 'ㅡ' and the stopped 't' can be tricky for beginners.

Listening 2/5

Commonly used in clear, slow contexts like 'healing' shows.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

천천히 (Slowly) 쉬다 (To rest) 기다리다 (To wait) 마음 (Heart/Mind) 준비하다 (To prepare)

Learn Next

여유롭게 (With leeway) 편안하게 (Comfortably) 차분하게 (Calmly) 조급하게 (Impatiently/Hurriedly) 느긋하다 (To be relaxed - adjective)

Advanced

유유자적 (Living free from worldly cares) 태평성대 (A peaceful reign/era) 관조 (Contemplation) 달관 (Philosophical detachment) 음미 (Savoring)

Grammar to Know

Adverbial suffix -게

느긋하다 (adj) + -게 = 느긋하게 (adv)

Expressing desire with -고 싶다

느긋하게 쉬고 싶어요. (I want to rest leisurely.)

Giving polite commands with -(으)세요

느긋하게 기다리세요. (Please wait leisurely.)

Simultaneous actions with -(으)면서

차를 느긋하게 마시면서 책을 읽어요. (I read a book while drinking tea leisurely.)

Causality with -아/어서

시간이 많아서 느긋하게 준비했어요. (I prepared leisurely because I had a lot of time.)

Examples by Level

우리는 공원을 느긋하게 걸어요.

We walk leisurely in the park.

느긋하게 is an adverb modifying the verb 걷다 (to walk).

집에서 느긋하게 쉬고 싶어요.

I want to rest leisurely at home.

-고 싶어요 means 'want to'.

아침을 느긋하게 먹어요.

I eat breakfast leisurely.

먹어요 is the present tense of 먹다.

음악을 느긋하게 들어요.

I listen to music leisurely.

들어요 is the present tense of 듣다.

느긋하게 기다려요.

Wait leisurely.

기다려요 is the present tense/imperative of 기다리다.

주말에 느긋하게 자요.

I sleep leisurely on the weekend.

자요 is the present tense of 자다.

차를 느긋하게 마셔요.

I drink tea leisurely.

마셔요 is the present tense of 마시다.

바다를 느긋하게 봐요.

I look at the sea leisurely.

봐요 is the present tense of 보다.

서두르지 말고 느긋하게 준비하세요.

Don't rush and please prepare leisurely.

-지 말고 means 'don't do X, but...'

우리는 카페에서 느긋하게 이야기했어요.

We talked leisurely at the cafe.

이야기했어요 is the past tense of 이야기하다.

휴가 때 느긋하게 여행하고 싶어요.

I want to travel leisurely during vacation.

휴가 means 'vacation/holiday'.

책을 느긋하게 읽으면서 시간을 보냈어요.

I spent time while reading a book leisurely.

-(으)면서 means 'while doing'.

버스를 느긋하게 기다리고 있어요.

I am waiting for the bus leisurely.

-고 있어요 is the present progressive.

저녁 식사를 느긋하게 즐겼어요.

I enjoyed dinner leisurely.

즐겼어요 is the past tense of 즐기다.

느긋하게 생각하면 답이 나올 거예요.

If you think leisurely, the answer will come out.

-(으)면 means 'if'.

일요일 오후를 느긋하게 보냈어요.

I spent Sunday afternoon leisurely.

보냈어요 is the past tense of 보내다 (to spend time).

마음을 느긋하게 먹고 결과를 기다립시다.

Let's take it easy and wait for the results.

마음을 느긋하게 먹다 is an idiom for 'to take it easy'.

그는 어떤 상황에서도 느긋하게 대처해요.

He handles things leisurely (calmly) in any situation.

대처하다 means 'to handle/cope with'.

풍경을 느긋하게 감상하며 산을 내려왔어요.

I came down the mountain while appreciating the scenery leisurely.

감상하다 means 'to appreciate/enjoy art or scenery'.

이번 주말에는 아무 계획 없이 느긋하게 지내고 싶어요.

This weekend, I want to spend time leisurely without any plans.

지내다 means 'to spend time/live'.

복잡한 도시를 떠나 시골에서 느긋하게 살고 싶어요.

I want to leave the crowded city and live leisurely in the countryside.

떠나다 means 'to leave'.

회의를 시작하기 전에 차를 마시며 느긋하게 대화했어요.

Before starting the meeting, we had a leisurely conversation while drinking tea.

-기 전에 means 'before doing'.

아이들이 노는 모습을 느긋하게 지켜보았어요.

I watched the children playing leisurely.

지켜보다 means 'to watch/observe'.

프로젝트가 끝났으니 이제 느긋하게 쉬어도 됩니다.

The project is finished, so you may rest leisurely now.

-어도 됩니다 means 'it is okay to / you may'.

그는 상대방의 말을 끝까지 느긋하게 들어주었다.

He listened to the other person's words leisurely (patiently) until the end.

-어 주다 indicates doing something for someone.

인생을 너무 서두르지 말고 느긋하게 즐길 필요가 있다.

There is a need to enjoy life leisurely without rushing too much.

-(으)ㄹ 필요가 있다 means 'there is a need to'.

작가는 마을의 분위기를 느긋하게 묘사하고 있다.

The author is describing the atmosphere of the village leisurely.

묘사하다 means 'to describe/portray'.

그녀는 위기 상황에서도 느긋하게 미소를 지었다.

She smiled leisurely even in a crisis situation.

미소를 짓다 means 'to wear a smile'.

전통 시장을 느긋하게 둘러보며 한국의 정을 느꼈다.

While looking around the traditional market leisurely, I felt the Korean 'jeong'.

둘러보다 means 'to look around'.

우리는 강변을 따라 느긋하게 드라이브를 즐겼다.

We enjoyed a leisurely drive along the riverside.

따라 means 'along/following'.

시험 공부를 미리 해두어서 마음이 느긋하게 느껴진다.

Because I studied for the exam in advance, my mind feels leisurely (at ease).

-어 두다 indicates doing something in advance.

그는 은퇴 후 시골에서 느긋하게 여생을 보내고 있다.

After retirement, he is spending the rest of his life leisurely in the country.

여생 means 'the rest of one's life'.

현대인들에게는 가끔 느긋하게 자신을 돌아볼 시간이 필요하다.

Modern people sometimes need time to reflect on themselves leisurely.

자신을 돌아보다 means 'to reflect on oneself'.

정치인은 비판에 대해 느긋하게 대응하며 여유를 보였다.

The politician responded leisurely to the criticism, showing composure.

대응하다 means 'to respond/react'.

고전 음악의 선율이 거실에 느긋하게 울려 퍼졌다.

The melody of classical music resonated leisurely through the living room.

울려 퍼지다 means 'to resonate/spread'.

그의 문체는 느긋하게 흐르는 강물처럼 자연스럽다.

His writing style is natural, like a leisurely flowing river.

문체 means 'writing style'.

우리는 해결책을 찾기 위해 문제를 느긋하게 분석하기로 했다.

We decided to analyze the problem leisurely to find a solution.

-기로 하다 means 'to decide to'.

노인은 옛날이야기를 느긋하게 들려주기 시작했다.

The elderly man began to tell old stories leisurely.

들려주다 means 'to tell/recount'.

도시의 소음에서 벗어나 숲길을 느긋하게 거닐었다.

Escaping from city noise, I strolled leisurely along the forest path.

거닐다 is a more poetic word for 'stroll/walk'.

협상가는 서두르지 않고 느긋하게 상대의 제안을 검토했다.

The negotiator examined the opponent's proposal leisurely without rushing.

검토하다 means 'to examine/review'.

인생의 황혼기에 접어든 그는 모든 것을 느긋하게 관조하고 있었다.

Having reached the twilight of his life, he was contemplating everything leisurely.

관조하다 means 'to contemplate/observe philosophically'.

예술가는 붓을 들어 캔버스 위에 느긋하게 선을 그어 나갔다.

The artist took the brush and proceeded to draw lines leisurely on the canvas.

-어 나가다 indicates continuing an action forward.

철학자는 시간의 본질에 대해 느긋하게 담론을 펼쳤다.

The philosopher unfolded a discourse on the essence of time leisurely.

담론을 펼치다 means 'to hold a discourse'.

그 영화는 사건의 전개를 느긋하게 가져가며 긴장감을 고조시킨다.

The movie takes the development of events leisurely, heightening the tension.

전개 means 'development/unfolding'.

역사의 흐름은 때로는 격동적이지만, 때로는 느긋하게 변모한다.

The flow of history is sometimes turbulent, but sometimes it transforms leisurely.

변모하다 means 'to transform/change appearance'.

그는 자신의 운명을 느긋하게 받아들이는 달관의 경지에 이르렀다.

He reached a state of mastery where he accepted his fate leisurely.

달관 means 'philosophical detachment/mastery'.

차 한 잔에 담긴 계절의 변화를 느긋하게 음미해 보았다.

I tried to savor the changes of the seasons contained in a cup of tea leisurely.

음미하다 means 'to savor/appreciate'.

사회의 변화를 느긋하게 관찰하며 미래를 통찰하는 혜안을 길렀다.

By observing social changes leisurely, he cultivated the insight to perceive the future.

혜안 means 'insight/wisdom'.

Common Collocations

느긋하게 기다리다

느긋하게 쉬다

느긋하게 걷다

느긋하게 먹다

느긋하게 즐기다

느긋하게 생각하다

느긋하게 준비하다

느긋하게 감상하다

느긋하게 자다

느긋하게 지켜보다

Common Phrases

마음을 느긋하게 가지다

— To have a relaxed mindset. It is used to encourage someone to stop worrying.

마음을 느긋하게 가지면 일이 더 잘 풀릴 거예요.

느긋하게 대처하다

— To handle a situation calmly and without panic. Often used as a compliment.

그는 갑작스러운 사고에도 느긋하게 대처했다.

느긋하게 시간을 보내다

— To spend time leisurely. A very common way to describe a good day off.

오랜만에 가족들과 느긋하게 시간을 보냈어요.

느긋하게 커피 한 잔

— A leisurely cup of coffee. Symbolizes a break or a social meeting.

느긋하게 커피 한 잔 마실 여유도 없니?

느긋하게 차례를 기다리다

— To wait for one's turn leisurely/patiently.

줄이 길었지만 우리는 느긋하게 차례를 기다렸다.

느긋하게 산책하다

— To take a relaxed stroll.

저녁을 먹고 공원을 느긋하게 산책했어요.

느긋하게 책을 읽다

— To read a book at one's ease.

비 오는 날에는 집에서 느긋하게 책을 읽는 게 최고예요.

느긋하게 대화하다

— To have a relaxed conversation.

우리는 밤늦게까지 느긋하게 대화했다.

느긋하게 여행하다

— To travel without a tight schedule.

이번에는 유명한 곳 대신 느긋하게 여행하고 싶어.

느긋하게 아침을 열다

— To start the morning in a relaxed way.

음악을 틀고 느긋하게 아침을 열었습니다.

Often Confused With

느긋하게 vs 천천히

천천히 refers to physical speed (slow), while 느긋하게 refers to a mental state (relaxed).

느긋하게 vs 여유롭게

여유롭게 implies having extra time or resources, while 느긋하게 focuses on the feeling of being unhurried.

느긋하게 vs 게으르게

게으르게 is negative (lazy), while 느긋하게 is positive (leisurely/relaxed).

Idioms & Expressions

"마음을 느긋하게 먹다"

— To make up one's mind to be patient or relaxed. Literally 'to eat a relaxed mind.'

너무 걱정하지 말고 마음을 느긋하게 먹어.

Common/Idiomatic

"느긋하게 꼬리를 치다"

— Usually used for animals (like a cat) wagging their tail in a relaxed manner, showing contentment.

고양이가 햇볕 아래서 느긋하게 꼬리를 치고 있다.

Descriptive

"팔자가 느긋하다"

— To have a very relaxed or easy life (destiny). Sometimes used with a bit of envy.

그 사람은 돈이 많아서 팔자가 느긋하네.

Colloquial

"느긋하게 뒷짐을 지다"

— To stand with hands behind one's back in a relaxed way, often observing something without interfering.

할아버지는 느긋하게 뒷짐을 지고 정원을 거니셨다.

Visual/Descriptive

"느긋하게 배를 두드리다"

— To pat one's stomach leisurely after a satisfying meal.

식사를 마친 아버지는 느긋하게 배를 두드리며 웃으셨다.

Informal/Visual

"느긋하게 한숨 돌리다"

— To take a relaxed breath of relief after finishing a difficult task.

마감이 끝나고 나서야 느긋하게 한숨 돌릴 수 있었다.

Common

"느긋하게 기지개를 켜다"

— To stretch leisurely (usually after waking up or sitting for a long time).

그는 잠에서 깨어나 느긋하게 기지개를 켰다.

Common

"느긋하게 강 건너 불구경하듯"

— To watch something leisurely as if watching a fire across a river (being indifferent to a crisis).

그는 친구의 일인데도 느긋하게 강 건너 불구경하듯 한다.

Idiomatic/Critical

"느긋하게 신선놀음을 하다"

— To enjoy oneself leisurely like a Taoist hermit (Shinsun).

방학 동안 시골에서 느긋하게 신선놀음을 했어.

Literary/Humorous

"느긋하게 세월을 낚다"

— To spend time leisurely, often used for fishing but metaphorically for living without rush.

그는 강가에서 낚시를 하며 느긋하게 세월을 낚고 있었다.

Literary

Easily Confused

느긋하게 vs 느릿느릿

Both mean 'slowly'.

느릿느릿 is a mimetic word often used for physical slowness (like a snail) and can be negative. 느긋하게 is about a calm mind.

느릿느릿 걷지 마! (Don't walk so sluggishly!) vs. 느긋하게 걷자. (Let's walk leisurely.)

느긋하게 vs 한가하게

Both imply not being busy.

한가하게 means 'having no work to do' (idle). 느긋하게 means 'doing something without rush' (relaxed).

한가하게 놀고 있어요. (I'm playing idly.) vs. 느긋하게 일하고 있어요. (I'm working relaxedly.)

느긋하게 vs 조용하게

Relaxed places are often quiet.

조용하게 refers to sound/volume (quietly). 느긋하게 refers to pace/feeling (leisurely).

조용하게 말해. (Speak quietly.) vs. 느긋하게 말해. (Speak relaxedly/Take your time.)

느긋하게 vs 편안하게

Both are positive and relaxed.

편안하게 is 'comfortably' (physical/mental ease). 느긋하게 is 'leisurely' (pace/time ease).

편안하게 앉으세요. (Sit comfortably.) vs. 느긋하게 앉아 계세요. (Stay sitting leisurely/Take your time.)

느긋하게 vs 태평하게

Both mean unconcerned.

태평하게 can mean 'indifferent' or 'carefree' in a way that ignores problems. 느긋하게 is generally just 'relaxed'.

태평하게 잠만 자네. (He's just sleeping carefreely - maybe he should be working.)

Sentence Patterns

[Noun]을/를 느긋하게 [Verb]요.

커피를 느긋하게 마셔요.

서두르지 말고 느긋하게 [Verb]세요.

서두르지 말고 느긋하게 준비하세요.

마음을 느긋하게 먹고 [Verb]시다.

마음을 느긋하게 먹고 기다립시다.

[Noun]을/를 느긋하게 [Verb]하는 편이에요.

주말에는 공원을 느긋하게 산책하는 편이에요.

현대인들에게는 느긋하게 [Verb]할 시간이 필요하다.

현대인들에게는 느긋하게 자신을 돌아볼 시간이 필요하다.

[Noun]의 흐름을 느긋하게 관조하다.

인생의 흐름을 느긋하게 관조하다.

Mixed

느긋하게 [Verb]면서 [Verb].

느긋하게 걸으면서 풍경을 봐요.

Mixed

[Noun]에서 느긋하게 지내요.

시골에서 느긋하게 지내요.

Word Family

Nouns

느긋함 (neugeut-ham) - Relaxedness/Leisureliness

Verbs

느긋해지다 (neugeut-haejida) - To become relaxed/easygoing

Adjectives

느긋하다 (neugeuthada) - To be relaxed/easygoing/leisurely

느긋느긋 (neugeut-neugeut) - Very leisurely (reduplication)

느긋이 (neugeusi) - Leisurely/Quietly (another adverb form)

여유 (yeoyu) - Leeway/Space/Time

편안 (pyeonan) - Comfort/Peace

휴식 (hyusik) - Rest/Break

How to Use It

frequency

Very common in daily life, lifestyle media, and literature.

Common Mistakes

Using '느긋하게' for physical speed only. → 천천히
If a car is going 10km/h, it is going '천천히'. If the driver is relaxed, they are driving '느긋하게'.
Using '느긋하게' as an adjective. → 느긋한
You cannot say '느긋하게 사람'. You must say '느긋한 사람'.
Using '느긋하게' to describe being lazy. → 게으르게
'느긋하게' is positive and implies a choice to relax. '게으르게' is negative and implies avoiding work.
Confusing '느긋하게' with '조용하게'. → 조용하게
A person can be '느긋하게' (relaxed) even in a noisy place. '조용하게' only refers to the lack of noise.
Saying '느긋하게 말해줘' to ask for slow speech. → 천천히 말해줘
If you need someone to speak slower for comprehension, '천천히' is the correct word. '느긋하게' means 'in a relaxed manner'.

Tips

The Cafe Rule

If you are in a cafe and want to stay for a long time without feeling guilty, you are spending time '느긋하게'. Use this word to describe your cafe visits!

Adjective vs Adverb

Remember: 느긋한 (Adjective) describes the noun (e.g., 느긋한 사람), while 느긋하게 (Adverb) describes the verb (e.g., 느긋하게 걷다).

Anti-Pali-Pali

Think of '느긋하게' as the antidote to the 'Pali-Pali' (hurry-hurry) culture. It is highly valued as a way to maintain mental health.

Leeway

If you want to emphasize that you have 'extra' time, use '여유롭게'. If you want to emphasize that you are 'relaxed', use '느긋하게'.

Tone Matters

When you say '느긋하게', speak a bit slower and softer. The sound of the word should reflect its meaning.

Mindset

Memorize the phrase '마음을 느긋하게 먹다'. It is used very often to comfort friends who are stressed.

Nature and Peace

This word is perfect for describing activities in nature, like hiking, watching the ocean, or gardening.

Word Family

Learn '느긋하다' (adj) and '느긋함' (noun) together with '느긋하게' to build a complete word family.

Don't confuse with laziness

If you call a lazy person '느긋하다', they might take it as a compliment! Use '게으르다' for negative laziness.

Polite Waiting

If you are late and your friend says '느긋하게 와요', they are being very kind and telling you not to worry.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of a 'New Goose' (느긋) walking 'Hage' (하게) slowly in the park. The 'New Goose' is not in a rush to fly south; it's just 'leisurely' enjoying the grass.

Visual Association

Imagine a person sitting in a rocking chair on a porch, slowly sipping lemonade while watching a sunset. That total lack of rush is '느긋하게'.

Word Web

느긋하게 Relaxed Slow Easygoing Comfortable Composed Unstressed Leisurely

Challenge

Try to spend 10 minutes today doing something '느긋하게'—like drinking water or walking to your car—and describe the feeling in Korean.

Word Origin

The word is purely Korean (Native Korean). It stems from the adjective '느긋하다'.

Original meaning: Originally, it described the physical sensation of being full after eating, which naturally leads to a feeling of relaxation and satisfaction.

Koreanic

Cultural Context

Be careful not to use it when someone is actually waiting for you urgently; it might sound like you are being inconsiderate of their time.

While English uses 'leisurely,' it's often associated with old age or wealth. In Korean, '느긋하게' is a desirable state for everyone, regardless of age.

Lee Hyori's 'Hyori's Homestay' - A show that popularized the '느긋하게' lifestyle on Jeju Island. The book 'The Beauty of Slowness' by Pierre Sansot - Translated and very popular in Korea. Various 'healing' K-Dramas like 'Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha' where the pace of life is '느긋하게'.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Weekend Plans

느긋하게 쉬고 싶어요.
느긋하게 아침을 먹을 거예요.
주말에는 느긋하게 지내요.
느긋하게 영화나 볼까요?

Travel

느긋하게 여행하는 게 좋아요.
풍경을 느긋하게 감상해요.
느긋하게 걸으면서 구경해요.
일정을 느긋하게 잡았어요.

Giving Advice

느긋하게 생각해 봐.
너무 서두르지 말고 느긋하게 해.
마음을 느긋하게 먹어.
느긋하게 기다리면 다 잘 될 거야.

Dining

음식을 느긋하게 즐기세요.
느긋하게 커피 한 잔 할까요?
저녁을 느긋하게 먹었어요.
느긋하게 대화하며 식사해요.

Work/Study

느긋하게 준비해도 늦지 않아요.
문제를 느긋하게 분석해 보세요.
느긋하게 작업하고 있습니다.
마감을 끝내고 느긋하게 쉬고 있어요.

Conversation Starters

"이번 주말에 느긋하게 무엇을 하고 싶으세요? (What do you want to do leisurely this weekend?)"

"여행할 때 계획을 빡빡하게 짜는 편인가요, 아니면 느긋하게 다니는 편인가요? (When traveling, do you make tight plans or go leisurely?)"

"평소에 아침 식사를 느긋하게 할 시간이 있나요? (Do you usually have time to eat breakfast leisurely?)"

"스트레스를 받을 때 어떻게 마음을 느긋하게 가지나요? (How do you make your mind relaxed when you are stressed?)"

"가장 느긋하게 시간을 보낼 수 있는 장소는 어디인가요? (Where is the place where you can spend time most leisurely?)"

Journal Prompts

오늘 하루 중 가장 느긋하게 보낸 시간은 언제였나요? 그 느낌을 적어보세요. (When was the most leisurely time today? Write about that feeling.)

내가 생각하는 '느긋한 삶'이란 무엇인지 설명해 보세요. (Explain what a 'leisurely life' means to you.)

빨리빨리 문화와 느긋하게 사는 것 중 어느 것이 더 중요하다고 생각하나요? (Which do you think is more important: hurry-hurry culture or living leisurely?)

느긋하게 여행했던 기억 중 가장 좋았던 곳을 묘사해 보세요. (Describe the best place you remember traveling leisurely.)

미래에 은퇴를 하면 어떻게 느긋하게 지내고 싶은가요? (How do you want to spend your time leisurely after you retire in the future?)

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

Technically yes, but '천천히' is more common for physical speed. Use '느긋하게' if you want to emphasize that the drive is for pleasure and relaxation, not just that the speed is low. For example, '느긋하게 드라이브하자' (Let's take a leisurely drive).

Yes, it is a neutral/polite word. It is not slang. However, telling a superior to do something '느긋하게' might be seen as overstepping unless they are clearly stressed and you are offering comfort.

They are almost identical. '느긋하게' is the more common adverbial form using the '-게' suffix. '느긋이' is another adverb form. '느긋이' often sounds slightly more literary or emphasizes the 'quiet' aspect of being relaxed.

No, '느긋하게' is an adverb used for actions. To describe a person's personality, use the adjective form '느긋하다' or '느긋한 사람'. For example, '그는 성격이 느긋해요' (He has a relaxed personality).

You can say '느긋하게 하세요' or '느긋하게 준비하세요'. It's a very kind way to tell someone they don't need to rush.

No, it's an idiom. '먹다' in this context means 'to harbor' or 'to set' a mindset. It means to decide to be patient or relaxed.

It can be used when discussing work-life balance or when a manager gives permission to relax after a hard project. It is less common in formal technical reports.

Rarely. It is almost always positive. If someone is being too slow in a bad way, words like '느릿느릿' or '게으르게' are used. Using '느긋하게' ironically is possible but rare.

The direct opposite is '급하게' (hurriedly) or '조급하게' (impatiently/anxiously).

The 'ㅅ' at the bottom of '긋' is pronounced as a stopped 't'. You don't release the air. Then you move quickly to the 'ㅎ' sound in '하게'.