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A2 adjective #2,500 most common 13 min read

믿음직하다

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips 믿음직하다 in 30 Seconds
Explanation 믿음직하다 in your Level:
At the A1 level, learners are just beginning to understand basic descriptive words in Korean. While '믿음직하다' (trustworthy) is slightly advanced for absolute beginners, it is a great word to introduce early because trust is such a fundamental concept. A1 learners should focus on recognizing the word and understanding its basic meaning: 'good' and 'reliable.' You don't need to worry about complex grammar yet. Just know that if someone says '믿음직해요' (mideumjikhaeyo), they are saying something very positive about a person. You can practice using it in simple sentences like '제 친구는 믿음직해요' (My friend is trustworthy). At this stage, associate the word with positive feelings and safe people. It is a descriptive verb, which means it acts like an adjective in English. You will often hear it ending in '-해요' (-haeyo) in polite everyday conversation. Don't worry about the deeper cultural nuances yet; just focus on the core meaning of someone you can rely on. Practice listening for the '믿' (mit) sound at the beginning, which is related to the verb '믿다' (to believe). This connection will help you remember the word's meaning as you progress in your Korean studies.
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At the A2 level, you are expanding your vocabulary to describe people and things more accurately. '믿음직하다' is a perfect A2 word. You should now be comfortable using it to modify nouns. The most important form to learn here is '믿음직한' (trustworthy + noun). You can use this to create phrases like '믿음직한 사람' (a trustworthy person) or '믿음직한 친구' (a reliable friend). You should also practice using it at the end of sentences with different polite endings, such as '믿음직합니다' (formal) and '믿음직해요' (standard polite). At this level, you can start using it to describe not just people, but also things like products or companies, though people are the most common subject. For example, '이 회사는 믿음직해요' (This company is reliable). You should also be aware of its opposite, '미덥지 못하다' (unreliable), though you might not need to use it actively yet. Focus on building sentences that explain *why* someone is trustworthy. For example, '그는 약속을 잘 지켜서 믿음직해요' (He keeps his promises well, so he is trustworthy). This helps you connect the adjective to actions and behaviors.
At the B1 level, your understanding of '믿음직하다' should become more nuanced. You are no longer just describing basic traits; you are expressing opinions and evaluations. You should confidently use the adverbial form '믿음직하게' (dependably/reliably) to describe how actions are performed. For example, '그는 일을 믿음직하게 처리했다' (He handled the work dependably). You should also understand the slight difference between '믿음직하다' and '믿음직스럽다'. While they are often interchangeable, '-스럽다' adds a nuance of 'having the feeling or appearance of.' So, '믿음직스러운 모습' means 'a trustworthy appearance/demeanor.' At B1, you should also be able to differentiate '믿음직하다' from similar words like '착하다' (kind) and '성실하다' (diligent). You know that a kind person isn't always reliable, and you can express this distinction in Korean. You will encounter this word frequently in intermediate reading and listening materials, such as news articles about companies or dialogues about workplace dynamics. Practice using it in professional contexts, such as describing a good colleague or a reliable service.
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At the B2 level, '믿음직하다' should be a natural and active part of your vocabulary, especially in professional and formal contexts. You understand its cultural weight—that calling someone '믿음직하다' is a significant compliment regarding their character and competence. You can use it effortlessly in complex sentence structures. For example, using the '-기 때문에' (because) or '-(으)니까' (since) clauses to justify your trust: '그 팀장은 위기 상황에서도 침착하게 대응하기 때문에 매우 믿음직합니다' (That team leader is very reliable because he responds calmly even in crisis situations). You are also comfortable with related Sino-Korean vocabulary like '신뢰할 수 있다' (can be trusted) and know when to use which. In a business meeting, you might opt for '신뢰할 수 있는 파트너' (a reliable partner), while in a personal conversation, you'd use '믿음직한 친구'. You can also understand and use idiomatic expressions or collocations related to trust. Your listening comprehension is sharp enough to pick up on the subtle tone of approval when native speakers use this word. You can write persuasive essays or emails arguing why a certain plan or person is the most reliable choice.
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At the C1 level, your use of '믿음직하다' reflects near-native fluency and a deep understanding of Korean social pragmatics. You recognize how the concept of reliability is foundational to '정' (jeong - affection/attachment) and '의리' (uiri - loyalty) in Korean culture. You can use the word rhetorically in debates or advanced discussions. You are adept at using negative forms naturally, preferring '미덥지 못하다' or '신뢰가 가지 않다' over a clunky '안 믿음직하다' when expressing doubt. You can analyze literature or media where a character's '믿음직함' (trustworthiness - noun form) is a central theme. You understand the subtle interplay between '믿음직하다' and '듬직하다', knowing exactly when to emphasize psychological trust versus physical/emotional stability. In professional settings, you can draft performance reviews or recommendation letters using this word and its synonyms with precise nuance. You can also play with the word, using it sarcastically or ironically if the context demands it, though its primary use remains earnestly positive. Your vocabulary network around 'trust' is extensive, including advanced terms like '신빙성' (credibility) and '확고하다' (firm/resolute).
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At the C2 level, '믿음직하다' is fully integrated into your linguistic repertoire, and you wield it with the effortless precision of an educated native speaker. You understand its etymological roots and how the suffix '-직하다' functions across the Korean language (e.g., 먹음직하다, 바람직하다), allowing you to intuitively grasp or even coin similar descriptive verbs. You can engage in deep philosophical or sociological discussions about the nature of trust in modern Korean society versus traditional society, using '믿음직하다' as a core concept. You can critique the use of the word in political discourse or advertising, analyzing how '믿음직한 이미지' (a trustworthy image) is constructed and manipulated. Your command of the language allows you to express the most subtle shades of reliability, dependability, and faith in both spoken and written Korean. You seamlessly transition between pure Korean words like '믿음직하다' and complex Sino-Korean equivalents depending on the exact register, audience, and stylistic requirements of your communication. You don't just know the word; you understand its cultural soul.
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Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

믿음직하다 in 30 Seconds

  • Means 'trustworthy' or 'dependable'.
  • Used mostly for people, but also things.
  • Conjugates as an adjective (믿음직한, 믿음직해요).
  • A high compliment in Korean culture.

The Korean adjective 믿음직하다 (mideumjikhada) is a profound and highly expressive word that translates to 'trustworthy,' 'dependable,' or 'reliable.' It is fundamentally rooted in the concept of trust, which is a cornerstone of Korean social and professional relationships. When you describe someone as 믿음직하다, you are not merely saying they are good at their job; you are implying a deep-seated confidence in their character, their consistency, and their ability to handle responsibilities without needing constant supervision. This word carries a significant positive weight and is often used as a high compliment in both personal and professional contexts. Understanding the depth of this word requires looking at its components. It is derived from the noun 믿음 (mideum), meaning 'trust' or 'belief,' which itself comes from the verb 믿다 (mitda), meaning 'to believe' or 'to trust.' The suffix -직하다 (-jikhada) is attached to nouns or verb stems to indicate that something 'has the quality of' or is 'worthy of' the preceding element. Therefore, 믿음직하다 literally translates to 'having the quality of trust' or 'worthy of trust.'

Morphological Breakdown
믿다 (to trust) -> 믿음 (trust) + -직하다 (worthy of) = 믿음직하다 (trustworthy).
Core Nuance
It implies a sense of psychological security and reassurance when relying on the subject.
Usage Scope
Primarily used for people, but can also describe systems, products, or abstract concepts like a plan or a promise.

In everyday conversation, you will frequently hear this word when people are evaluating others, such as during a job interview, when discussing a potential romantic partner, or when praising a team member. It is a word that builds bridges and solidifies bonds. For language learners, mastering 믿음직하다 is crucial for expressing nuanced opinions about character and reliability. It elevates your Korean from simple descriptive adjectives like 'good' (좋다) to more specific, culturally resonant terms. Furthermore, the concept of being dependable is highly valued in Korean corporate culture, making this word indispensable for business Korean. When a manager says a subordinate is 믿음직하다, it often precedes a promotion or the delegation of an important task. It is the ultimate seal of approval regarding one's professional demeanor and work ethic.

우리 팀의 새로운 매니저는 정말 믿음직하다.

Our team's new manager is truly trustworthy.

그 친구는 언제나 믿음직한 조언을 해줍니다.

That friend always gives reliable advice.

이 자동차 브랜드는 안전성 면에서 매우 믿음직합니다.

This car brand is very dependable in terms of safety.

어려운 일이 있을 때마다 그가 믿음직하게 도와주었다.

Whenever there was a difficult task, he dependably helped.

그의 듬직한 체격만큼이나 성격도 믿음직하다.

His personality is as reliable as his sturdy build.

To fully integrate this word into your vocabulary, practice using it in various forms. As an adjective modifying a noun, it becomes 믿음직한 (e.g., 믿음직한 사람 - a trustworthy person). As an adverb modifying a verb, it becomes 믿음직하게 (e.g., 믿음직하게 행동하다 - to act dependably). You can also use it as a predicate at the end of a sentence: 그 사람은 믿음직해요 (That person is trustworthy). By understanding the deep cultural resonance and the flexible grammatical applications of 믿음직하다, you will significantly enhance your ability to communicate complex social dynamics and personal evaluations in Korean. This word is a key that unlocks a deeper level of fluency and cultural understanding, allowing you to express trust and confidence with native-like precision.

Using 믿음직하다 correctly involves understanding its grammatical functions as a descriptive verb (adjective) in Korean. Like all Korean adjectives, it conjugates to reflect tense, politeness level, and its role in the sentence. When used to modify a noun directly, the stem 믿음직하- takes the modifier suffix -ㄴ, becoming 믿음직한. This is perhaps the most common way you will encounter the word, placed directly before the noun it describes. For example, '믿음직한 친구' (a reliable friend) or '믿음직한 직원' (a dependable employee). This structure is essential for building descriptive sentences and expressing your evaluation of people or things. When used at the end of a sentence as a predicate, it must be conjugated according to the appropriate speech level. In the standard polite form (해요체), it becomes 믿음직해요. In the formal polite form (하십시오체), often used in business or public speaking, it becomes 믿음직합니다. In casual speech (해체) among close friends, it is simply 믿음직해.

Noun Modifier Form
믿음직한 + Noun (e.g., 믿음직한 사람 - trustworthy person)
Adverbial Form
믿음직하게 + Verb (e.g., 믿음직하게 일하다 - to work dependably)
Predicate Form (Polite)
Subject + 믿음직해요 / 믿음직합니다 (e.g., 그는 믿음직해요 - He is trustworthy)

Another crucial aspect of using 믿음직하다 is understanding its adverbial form, 믿음직하게. This form is used to describe *how* an action is performed. If someone completes a task in a way that inspires confidence, you would say they did it 믿음직하게. For instance, '그는 프로젝트를 믿음직하게 이끌었다' (He led the project dependably). This highlights not just the person's character, but the quality of their actions. Furthermore, you can use the structure '-게 보이다' (to look/seem) with this word: 믿음직하게 보이다 (to look trustworthy). This is useful when giving first impressions, such as '면접관에게 믿음직하게 보여야 합니다' (You must appear trustworthy to the interviewer).

저는 믿음직한 파트너를 찾고 있습니다.

I am looking for a reliable partner.

그 선수는 팀에서 가장 믿음직합니다.

That player is the most dependable on the team.

아들이 아버지를 믿음직하게 부축했다.

The son dependably supported his father.

첫인상이 믿음직스러워 보였습니다.

His first impression looked trustworthy.

이 기계는 오래되었지만 여전히 믿음직해.

This machine is old, but it's still reliable.

When constructing negative sentences, you have a few options. You can use the standard negative forms: 믿음직하지 않다 (long form negation) or 안 믿음직하다 (short form negation). However, in natural Korean, it is often more common to use the antonym 미덥지 못하다 (to be unreliable) when expressing a lack of trust. Saying someone is '안 믿음직하다' can sound a bit blunt, whereas '미덥지 못하다' sounds slightly more sophisticated and is a very common set phrase. Practice these conjugations and collocations diligently. Write journal entries describing the most reliable people in your life using 믿음직한, or describe products you trust using 믿음직해요. The more you actively apply these grammatical structures, the more natural this essential vocabulary word will become in your daily Korean communication.

The adjective 믿음직하다 is ubiquitous in Korean daily life, appearing across a wide spectrum of contexts ranging from casual family conversations to high-stakes corporate environments and national media. Because trust and reliability are core values in Korean society, the language reflects this emphasis through the frequent use of words like 믿음직하다. One of the most common places you will hear this word is in the workplace. During performance reviews, a manager might praise an employee by saying, '김 대리는 참 믿음직해요' (Assistant Manager Kim is very reliable). It is the ultimate compliment for a professional, indicating that they can be trusted with important tasks without micromanagement. In job interviews, candidates often strive to project a '믿음직한 인상' (trustworthy impression), and interviewers will discuss among themselves whether a candidate seemed 믿음직하다. It is a key metric for professional success and reputation building in Korea.

Workplace & Business
Used to evaluate employees, partners, and the reliability of companies or services.
Family & Relationships
Used to describe dependable spouses, mature children, or loyal friends.
Media & Advertising
Used to promote products, especially cars, banks, and insurance, emphasizing safety and trust.

Beyond the office, 믿음직하다 is deeply embedded in family and social dynamics. Parents often use this word to express pride in their children, especially when a child takes on responsibilities or shows maturity. A mother might say of her eldest son, '우리 큰아들이 참 믿음직스럽지' (Our eldest son is so dependable, isn't he?). In romantic relationships, being considered 믿음직하다 is often cited as a highly desirable trait. When introducing a significant other to parents, the parents' primary concern is often whether the partner is a '믿음직한 사람' (trustworthy person) who can provide a stable and secure future. Friends also use it to describe that one person in the group who always organizes events, keeps secrets, and is there in times of need. It is a word that signifies a deep, enduring bond.

광고: 고객님의 미래를 책임질 믿음직한 은행.

Ad: A reliable bank that will take responsibility for your future.

드라마 대사: 네가 곁에 있어서 정말 믿음직해.

Drama line: It's so reassuring (dependable) having you by my side.

뉴스: 이번 선거에서는 믿음직한 후보를 뽑아야 합니다.

News: We must elect a trustworthy candidate in this election.

일상 대화: 우리 남편은 가사일을 믿음직하게 잘 도와줘.

Daily chat: My husband dependably helps out well with the housework.

스포츠 해설: 저 투수는 위기 상황에서도 믿음직합니다.

Sports commentary: That pitcher is reliable even in crisis situations.

In media and advertising, the concept of reliability is heavily monetized. Banks, insurance companies, and automobile manufacturers frequently use 믿음직하다 in their slogans and marketing campaigns. They want consumers to feel that their money, health, and safety are in '믿음직한 손' (reliable hands). News anchors and political commentators also use the word when discussing public figures, policies, or national security. A politician's greatest asset is often perceived to be a '믿음직한 이미지' (trustworthy image). By tuning your ear to these various contexts—from the intimate praise of a parent to the polished pitch of a commercial—you will gain a comprehensive understanding of how deeply the concept of 믿음직하다 is woven into the fabric of Korean communication and culture.

While 믿음직하다 is a highly useful word, learners often make a few common mistakes regarding its nuance, usage, and related vocabulary. The most frequent error is confusing it with words that have similar English translations but different Korean applications. For instance, learners often confuse 믿음직하다 with 착하다 (to be kind/good-natured). While a trustworthy person is often kind, the two words are not interchangeable. 착하다 refers to moral goodness, gentleness, or obedience, whereas 믿음직하다 refers specifically to reliability and the ability to be trusted with responsibility. You might have a friend who is very 착하다 (kind) but not at all 믿음직하다 (reliable) when it comes to keeping secrets or showing up on time. Using 착하다 when you mean to praise someone's professional reliability will sound unnatural and diminish the strength of your compliment.

Mistake 1: Confusing with 착하다 (Kind)
착하다 is about personality (nice/kind); 믿음직하다 is about capability and trust (reliable).
Mistake 2: Confusing with 듬직하다 (Sturdy/Calm)
듬직하다 implies physical presence or a heavy, calm demeanor, while 믿음직하다 is purely about trust.
Mistake 3: Overusing with inanimate objects
While possible, it's most naturally and frequently used for people. For objects, 튼튼하다 (sturdy) or 확실하다 (certain) might sometimes be better depending on context.

Another common point of confusion is the distinction between 믿음직하다 and 듬직하다. These words look and sound similar, and they can sometimes overlap, but they have distinct core meanings. 듬직하다 often carries a physical connotation; it describes someone (usually male) who is broadly built, sturdy, and gives off a calm, unshakeable vibe. A large, quiet bodyguard might be described as 듬직하다. 믿음직하다, on the other hand, is purely about trust and reliability, regardless of physical size or demeanor. A petite, highly organized assistant can be incredibly 믿음직하다, but you wouldn't typically call them 듬직하다. Mixing these up can lead to slightly comical or confusing descriptions, especially if you use 듬직하다 to describe someone's work ethic rather than their presence.

❌ 오류: 이 컴퓨터는 아주 착해요.

Incorrect: This computer is very kind. (Makes no sense)

✅ 수정: 이 컴퓨터는 아주 믿음직해요 / 성능이 확실해요.

Correct: This computer is very reliable / its performance is certain.

❌ 오류: 우리 아기는 정말 믿음직해요.

Incorrect: Our baby is very reliable. (Babies cannot bear responsibility)

✅ 수정: 우리 아기는 정말 착해요 / 순해요.

Correct: Our baby is very good/gentle.

✅ 비교: 체격이 듬직하다 (Sturdy build) vs. 성격이 믿음직하다 (Reliable personality).

Comparison: Sturdy build vs. Reliable personality.

Finally, learners sometimes struggle with the grammatical constraints of adjectives in Korean. Because 'trust' in English is often a verb ('I trust him'), learners might try to use 믿음직하다 as a transitive verb, saying things like '나는 그를 믿음직해요' (I reliable him). This is grammatically incorrect. 믿음직하다 is a descriptive verb (adjective) and describes the state of the subject. The correct phrasing is '그는 믿음직해요' (He is reliable). If you want to say 'I trust him,' you must use the action verb 믿다: '나는 그를 믿어요'. Keeping the distinction between the action of trusting (믿다) and the state of being trustworthy (믿음직하다) clear in your mind will prevent these common structural errors and make your Korean sound much more natural and proficient.

Expanding your vocabulary around the concept of reliability will greatly enhance your fluency. While 믿음직하다 is a fantastic all-purpose word for 'trustworthy,' Korean offers several synonyms and related terms that carry slightly different nuances, allowing you to express yourself with greater precision. One of the most common synonyms is 신뢰할 수 있다 (to be able to trust / to be reliable). This phrase uses the Sino-Korean word 신뢰 (trust/confidence) and is slightly more formal and objective than 믿음직하다. You will frequently see '신뢰할 수 있는' in news reports, academic papers, or formal business proposals. For example, '신뢰할 수 있는 데이터' (reliable data) sounds more professional than '믿음직한 데이터'. Another closely related word is 확실하다 (to be certain, sure, clear). While not a direct synonym for trustworthy, it is often used to describe someone whose work or promises are guaranteed. If a worker is 확실하다, it means they do their job perfectly and without fail, making them, by extension, reliable.

신뢰할 수 있다 (To be reliable/trustworthy)
More formal, objective, often used in business or academic contexts (Sino-Korean origin).
확실하다 (To be certain/sure)
Focuses on the guarantee of an outcome; someone who does things perfectly without fail.
성실하다 (To be diligent/sincere)
Focuses on consistent effort and hard work, which leads to being trustworthy.

Another excellent word to know is 성실하다 (to be diligent, sincere, faithful). This word focuses on a person's work ethic and attitude. A person who is 성실하다 shows up on time, works hard, and doesn't cut corners. Because of this consistent good behavior, a 성실한 사람 (diligent person) is almost always considered a 믿음직한 사람 (trustworthy person). However, the focus is different: 성실하다 is about the effort, while 믿음직하다 is about the resulting trust. Additionally, as mentioned in previous sections, 듬직하다 is a related term that implies a sense of physical or psychological weight and stability, often translating to 'sturdy' or 'reassuring.' It's the feeling you get when someone is capable of protecting you or handling a heavy burden.

이 정보는 신뢰할 수 있는 출처에서 왔습니다.

This information comes from a reliable (formal) source.

그의 일 처리는 언제나 확실합니다.

His handling of work is always certain/flawless.

그녀는 매우 성실한 학생입니다.

She is a very diligent/sincere student.

아버지는 우리 가족의 듬직한 기둥이십니다.

Father is the sturdy/reassuring pillar of our family.

이 두 단어는 비슷하지만 뉘앙스가 다릅니다.

These two words are similar but have different nuances.

Understanding these subtle differences allows you to tailor your language to the specific situation. If you are writing a formal report evaluating a vendor, '신뢰할 수 있는 업체' is perfect. If you are recommending a friend for a job, '성실하고 믿음직한 친구' covers both their work ethic and their character. If you want to express that someone's physical presence makes you feel safe, '듬직하다' is the right choice. By building a network of related vocabulary around your core word, you transition from simply translating English thoughts into Korean to actually thinking and expressing yourself within the Korean linguistic framework. This depth of vocabulary is what distinguishes an intermediate learner from an advanced speaker.

How Formal Is It?

Difficulty Rating

Grammar to Know

Adjective Noun Modifier: -은/ㄴ (믿음직한)

Adverbial Maker: -게 (믿음직하게)

Reason/Cause: -아/어서 (믿음직해서)

Appearance/Guess: -아/어 보이다 (믿음직해 보이다)

Feeling/Quality Suffix: -스럽다 (믿음직스럽다)

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Examples by Level

1

제 친구는 믿음직해요.

My friend is trustworthy.

Subject + 믿음직해요 (Polite ending).

2

그 사람은 믿음직합니다.

That person is reliable.

Formal polite ending (-습니다).

3

우리 아빠는 믿음직해요.

My dad is dependable.

Using family terms with the adjective.

4

이 차는 믿음직해요.

This car is reliable.

Applying the adjective to an object.

5

선생님은 믿음직합니다.

The teacher is trustworthy.

Using formal language for a teacher.

6

믿음직한 사람입니다.

(He/She) is a trustworthy person.

Noun modifier form (믿음직한 + 명사).

7

정말 믿음직해요.

(It/He/She) is really reliable.

Using the adverb 정말 (really).

8

형은 믿음직해.

Older brother is reliable.

Casual ending (-해).

1

저는 믿음직한 친구가 많아요.

I have many reliable friends.

믿음직한 modifying 친구 as the subject of 많다.

2

그는 약속을 잘 지켜서 믿음직해요.

He keeps promises well, so he is trustworthy.

Using -아/어서 to show reason.

3

우리 팀장은 아주 믿음직한 분입니다.

Our team leader is a very reliable person.

Using honorific 분 instead of 사람.

4

이 제품은 튼튼하고 믿음직해요.

This product is sturdy and reliable.

Connecting adjectives with -고.

5

믿음직한 직원을 찾고 있습니다.

I am looking for a reliable employee.

Present progressive (-고 있다).

6

그녀는 항상 믿음직하게 행동해요.

She always acts dependably.

Adverbial form (믿음직하게).

7

새로 산 컴퓨터가 참 믿음직스럽네요.

The newly bought computer is quite reliable.

Using -스럽다 for 'feeling/appearance'.

8

어려울 때 도와주는 믿음직한 친구입니다.

A reliable friend who helps in difficult times.

Complex noun modification.

1

그 선수는 위기 상황에서도 항상 믿음직한 모습을 보여줍니다.

That player always shows a reliable performance even in crisis situations.

Using 모습 (appearance/state) with the modifier.

2

이번 프로젝트는 김 대리에게 맡기면 믿음직할 거예요.

If we entrust this project to Assistant Manager Kim, it will be reliable.

Conditional -(으)면 and future guess -(으)ㄹ 거예요.

3

외모는 듬직해 보이지만, 일 처리하는 것은 별로 믿음직하지 않아요.

He looks sturdy, but the way he handles work is not very reliable.

Contrasting 듬직하다 and 믿음직하다 using -지만.

4

부모님께서는 제가 독립하는 것을 믿음직스럽게 생각하십니다.

My parents think of my becoming independent as a dependable thing.

Using -게 생각하다 (to think of as...).

5

아무리 친한 사이라도 돈 문제에 있어서는 믿음직한 사람과 거래해야 합니다.

No matter how close you are, when it comes to money, you must deal with a reliable person.

아무리 -아/어도 (no matter how).

6

그 회사의 제품은 품질이 우수해서 소비자들에게 믿음직하다는 평가를 받습니다.

That company's products are of excellent quality, so they receive evaluations of being reliable from consumers.

Indirect quotation modifier (-다는).

7

그는 말이 많지 않지만, 행동 하나하나가 참 믿음직스러워요.

He doesn't talk much, but every single action is very trustworthy.

Emphasizing 'every single action' (행동 하나하나).

8

면접관들에게 믿음직한 인상을 심어주는 것이 합격의 비결입니다.

Planting a trustworthy impression on the interviewers is the secret to passing.

Using 인상을 심어주다 (to plant an impression).

1

국가 안보를 책임지는 군인들의 늠름하고 믿음직한 모습에 국민들은 안심했습니다.

The citizens were relieved by the dignified and reliable appearance of the soldiers responsible for national security.

Advanced vocabulary: 안보 (security), 늠름하다 (dignified).

2

금융 기관은 고객의 자산을 안전하게 보호해야 하므로 무엇보다 믿음직해야 합니다.

Financial institutions must safely protect customers' assets, so above all, they must be reliable.

Using -(으)므로 (because/since) for formal reason.

3

그 정치인은 화려한 언변보다는 일관된 정책 추진으로 유권자들에게 믿음직하다는 인식을 심어주었습니다.

Rather than flashy eloquence, that politician instilled a perception of being reliable in voters through consistent policy implementation.

Comparing with -보다는; using 인식 (perception).

4

아무리 기술이 발달해도 결국 시스템을 운영하는 것은 사람이기 때문에 믿음직한 인재 양성이 필수적입니다.

No matter how much technology develops, it is ultimately people who operate the systems, so training reliable talent is essential.

Complex sentence structure with -기 때문에 and 필수적 (essential).

5

오랜 기간 동안 한결같이 봉사활동을 해온 그녀의 삶의 태도는 누구에게나 믿음직스럽게 다가옵니다.

Her attitude toward life, having consistently done volunteer work for a long time, comes across as dependable to anyone.

Using -게 다가오다 (to come across as).

6

이 소프트웨어는 여러 번의 베타 테스트를 거쳐 버그를 수정했기 때문에 상용화해도 될 만큼 믿음직합니다.

This software has gone through multiple beta tests to fix bugs, so it is reliable enough to be commercialized.

Using -(으)ㄹ 만큼 (enough to).

7

팀의 막내였던 그가 어느새 훌쩍 성장하여 이제는 선배들조차 의지할 만큼 믿음직한 핵심 인력이 되었습니다.

He, who was the youngest of the team, has suddenly grown up and become a reliable core personnel that even seniors rely on.

Using 조차 (even) and 핵심 인력 (core personnel).

8

위기 관리 능력이 뛰어난 리더일수록 조직원들에게 더욱 믿음직한 존재로 각인되기 마련입니다.

The more outstanding a leader's crisis management skills are, the more they are bound to be engraved as a reliable existence to organization members.

Using -(으)ㄹ수록 (the more... the more) and -기 마련이다 (bound to).

1

현대 사회의 불확실성이 증대될수록 대중은 확고한 철학과 일관성을 지닌 믿음직한 지도자를 갈망하게 됩니다.

As the uncertainty of modern society increases, the public yearns for a reliable leader with a firm philosophy and consistency.

Advanced vocabulary: 불확실성 (uncertainty), 갈망하다 (yearn).

2

기업의 지속 가능한 성장을 위해서는 단기적인 이익 창출보다는 시장과 소비자에게 믿음직한 기업이라는 평판을 구축하는 것이 선결 과제입니다.

For a company's sustainable growth, building a reputation as a reliable company to the market and consumers is a prerequisite task rather than short-term profit generation.

Using 선결 과제 (prerequisite task) and 평판 (reputation).

3

그의 논문은 방대한 실증적 데이터를 바탕으로 논리를 전개하고 있어 학계에서도 매우 믿음직한 연구 결과로 인정받고 있습니다.

His paper develops its logic based on vast empirical data, so it is recognized as a very reliable research result even in academia.

Academic context: 실증적 (empirical), 논리를 전개하다 (develop logic).

4

언론의 생명은 보도의 객관성과 정확성에 있으며, 이를 상실할 경우 결코 대중에게 믿음직한 정보의 창구 역할을 수행할 수 없습니다.

The life of the press lies in the objectivity and accuracy of its reporting, and if it loses this, it can never perform the role of a reliable window of information for the public.

Using -(으)ㄹ 경우 (in the event of) and 창구 (window/channel).

5

인공지능 기술이 의료 현장에 도입되면서, AI의 진단 결과가 전문의의 판단만큼이나 믿음직스러운가에 대한 윤리적, 기술적 논의가 활발히 진행 중입니다.

As AI technology is introduced into the medical field, ethical and technical discussions are actively underway regarding whether AI's diagnostic results are as reliable as a specialist's judgment.

Using 만큼이나 (as much as) in a complex interrogative clause.

6

아무리 시스템이 정교하게 설계되었다 하더라도, 그것을 운용하는 주체의 도덕적 해이가 발생한다면 그 시스템은 더 이상 믿음직한 안전망이 될 수 없습니다.

No matter how elaborately a system is designed, if moral hazard occurs in the entity operating it, that system can no longer be a reliable safety net.

Using 도덕적 해이 (moral hazard) and -다 하더라도 (even if).

7

사법부에 대한 국민의 신뢰가 추락한 현시점에서, 공정하고 투명한 판결을 통해 사법 체계가 여전히 믿음직하다는 것을 증명해 내야 할 중차대한 시기입니다.

At this current point where public trust in the judiciary has fallen, it is a crucial time to prove that the judicial system is still reliable through fair and transparent rulings.

Using 중차대하다 (crucial/momentous) and 증명해 내다 (to prove successfully).

8

전통적인 가족 제도가 해체되는 양상을 보이면서, 혈연을 넘어선 새로운 형태의 믿음직한 사회적 연대망 구축이 시급한 과제로 떠오르고 있습니다.

As the traditional family system shows signs of dismantling, building a new form of reliable social solidarity network beyond blood ties is emerging as an urgent task.

Using 연대망 (solidarity network) and 시급한 과제 (urgent task).

1

'믿음직하다'라는 어휘의 기저에는 단순한 기능적 신뢰를 넘어, 한국 문화 특유의 '정(情)'과 '의리(義理)'에 기반한 전인격적인 의탁의 뉘앙스가 내포되어 있습니다.

At the base of the vocabulary 'trustworthy' lies a nuance of holistic reliance based on the unique Korean culture of 'jeong' and 'loyalty', going beyond simple functional trust.

Highly academic/analytical sentence structure.

2

포스트 트루스(Post-truth) 시대에 접어들면서, 정보의 홍수 속에서 무엇이 진정으로 믿음직한 진실인지 판별하는 대중의 미디어 리터러시 역량이 그 어느 때보다 요구되고 있습니다.

Entering the Post-truth era, the public's media literacy capacity to discern what is a truly reliable truth amidst a flood of information is demanded more than ever.

Using contemporary sociological concepts (Post-truth, media literacy).

3

금융 당국은 시장의 변동성이 극대화되는 퍼펙트 스톰의 위기 속에서도 국가 경제의 펀더멘털이 여전히 믿음직하다는 시그널을 시장에 지속적으로 발신해야 합니다.

Even in the crisis of a perfect storm where market volatility is maximized, financial authorities must continuously send signals to the market that the national economy's fundamentals are still reliable.

Economic jargon: 변동성 (volatility), 펀더멘털 (fundamentals).

4

그 작가의 후기 작품들은 초기작의 치기 어린 열정을 탈피하여, 삶의 비애를 관조하는 원숙하고도 믿음직한 시선을 견지하고 있다는 점에서 문학사적 의의가 깊습니다.

The author's later works are of deep significance in literary history in that they break away from the childish passion of early works and maintain a mature and reliable gaze that contemplates the sorrow of life.

Literary critique vocabulary: 관조하다 (contemplate), 견지하다 (maintain).

5

외교 무대에서 한 국가가 다자간 협의체의 믿음직한 중재자로서 기능하기 위해서는, 자국의 이익을 일방적으로 관철하려는 패권주의적 태도를 지양하고 보편적 가치에 입각한 규범적 리더십을 발휘해야 합니다.

In order for a country to function as a reliable mediator in a multilateral consultative body on the diplomatic stage, it must reject a hegemonic attitude of unilaterally pushing its own interests and exercise normative leadership based on universal values.

Diplomatic terminology: 다자간 협의체 (multilateral consultative body), 패권주의 (hegemonism).

6

인간의 인지적 편향성을 고려할 때, 개인의 직관보다는 교차 검증된 데이터에 기반한 알고리즘의 예측이 통계적으로 훨씬 더 믿음직하다는 사실을 우리는 겸허히 수용해야 할지도 모릅니다.

Considering human cognitive bias, we may have to humbly accept the fact that algorithmic predictions based on cross-verified data are statistically much more reliable than individual intuition.

Scientific/Philosophical reasoning: 인지적 편향성 (cognitive bias), 교차 검증 (cross-verification).

7

거대 서사가 붕괴된 포스트모더니즘 사회에서 개인은 역설적으로 파편화된 일상 속에서 자신을 지탱해 줄 작지만 믿음직한 미시적 서사들을 끊임없이 탐색하고 구축해 나갑니다.

In a postmodern society where grand narratives have collapsed, individuals paradoxically continuously explore and construct small but reliable micro-narratives to support themselves in their fragmented daily lives.

Sociological theory: 거대 서사 (grand narrative), 파편화 (fragmentation).

8

헌법재판소의 결정은 단순한 법리적 해석을 넘어, 시대정신을 반영하고 사회적 갈등을 통합하는 가장 믿음직한 최후의 보루로서 기능해야 한다는 헌법적 요청을 받고 있습니다.

The Constitutional Court's decisions are under the constitutional request to function as the most reliable last bastion that reflects the zeitgeist and integrates social conflicts, going beyond simple legal interpretation.

Legal/Constitutional discourse: 최후의 보루 (last bastion), 시대정신 (zeitgeist).

Common Collocations

믿음직한 사람 (trustworthy person)
믿음직한 친구 (reliable friend)
믿음직한 모습 (dependable appearance)
믿음직하게 일하다 (to work dependably)
믿음직스럽다 (to seem trustworthy)
매우 믿음직하다 (very reliable)
가장 믿음직하다 (most reliable)
믿음직한 파트너 (reliable partner)
믿음직한 정보 (reliable information)
믿음직한 제품 (reliable product)

Common Phrases

그는 참 믿음직해요. (He is very reliable.)
믿음직한 인상을 주다. (To give a trustworthy impression.)
가장 믿음직한 직원입니다. (The most dependable employee.)
믿음직하게 처리해 주세요. (Please handle it dependably.)
보기만 해도 믿음직스럽다. (Looks reliable just by looking at it.)
믿음직한 리더가 필요하다. (We need a reliable leader.)
언제나 믿음직한 내 편. (My always reliable side/supporter.)
믿음직한 소식통. (A reliable source of information.)
믿음직한 방패. (A reliable shield.)
믿음직하게 성장하다. (To grow up dependably.)

Often Confused With

믿음직하다 vs 착하다 (Kind - focuses on morality, not reliability)

믿음직하다 vs 듬직하다 (Sturdy/Calm - focuses on physical or emotional weight)

믿음직하다 vs 똑똑하다 (Smart - intelligence does not always equal reliability)

Idioms & Expressions

"믿는 도끼에 발등 찍힌다 (Even a trusted axe can chop your foot - related to trust betrayed)"
"믿음이 가다 (Trust goes/forms - to feel trust)"
"신뢰를 쌓다 (To build trust)"
"간판을 믿다 (To trust the sign/brand)"
"철석같이 믿다 (To believe like iron and stone - firmly)"
"믿음직한 구석이 있다 (To have a reliable corner/aspect)"
"의지가 되다 (To become a reliance/support)"
"등직하다 (To have a sturdy back - reliable)"
"두 다리 뻗고 자다 (To sleep with both legs stretched out - feeling secure/trusting)"
"바위 같다 (To be like a rock - reliable/unmoving)"

Easily Confused

믿음직하다 vs

믿음직하다 vs

믿음직하다 vs

믿음직하다 vs

믿음직하다 vs

Sentence Patterns

Word Family

Related

미덥다 (reliable - less common root form)
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How to Use It

nuance

Carries a warm, positive, and secure feeling.

formality

Can be used in all levels of formality by changing the sentence ending.

restrictions

Rarely used for animals or small children unless used metaphorically or jokingly.

Common Mistakes
  • Using 을/를 instead of 이/가/은/는 (e.g., 그를 믿음직하다 ❌ -> 그는 믿음직하다 ✅).
  • Pronouncing it exactly as spelled without the consonant assimilation (saying 직-하-다 instead of 지-카-다).
  • Confusing it with 착하다 (kind) when describing a nice but irresponsible person.
  • Using it to describe small children or pets in a serious context.
  • Translating 'I trust him' literally as '나는 그가 믿음직하다' (This means 'He is reliable to me', not the action of trusting. Use 믿다 for the action).

Tips

Adjective Rule

Never use 을/를 with 믿음직하다. It describes the subject, so use 이/가 or 은/는.

The 'K' Sound

Always remember the ㄱ + ㅎ = ㅋ rule. It's [미듬지카다], not [미듬직하다].

Business Korean

Use this word in interviews to describe your work ethic: '저는 믿음직한 사원이 되겠습니다' (I will become a reliable employee).

Perfect Pairs

Memorize '믿음직한 사람' (reliable person) as a single chunk. It's the most common usage.

Not just 'Good'

Don't use it just to say someone is nice. Use it when they have proven they can handle responsibility.

Formal Alternatives

In academic or highly formal writing, swap it for '신뢰할 수 있는' (trustworthy/credible).

The Ultimate Compliment

Calling a friend's partner '믿음직하다' is the best way to show your approval of their relationship.

Commercial Catchphrase

Listen to bank commercials. You will hear this word guaranteed. It helps associate the word with 'security'.

Learn the Antonym

Learn '미덥지 못하다' (unreliable) at the same time. They are two sides of the same coin.

Expressing Relief

You can use it to express relief. '네가 와서 참 믿음직하다' (I feel so secure/relieved that you came).

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Imagine a MEAT (믿) that is DUMB (음) but wearing a CHIC (직) HAT (하). The 'Meat-Dumb-Chic-Hat' is actually a very reliable and trustworthy brand of hats.

Word Origin

Native Korean

Cultural Context

Eldest sons/daughters are traditionally expected to be '믿음직하다'.

A key trait for promotion. Managers look for '믿음직한' employees.

A highly sought-after trait in a prospective spouse.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Conversation Starters

"당신이 아는 사람 중에 가장 믿음직한 사람은 누구인가요? (Who is the most trustworthy person you know?)"

"어떤 브랜드를 가장 믿음직하게 생각하나요? (Which brand do you consider the most reliable?)"

"직장에서 믿음직한 사람이 되려면 어떻게 해야 할까요? (What should one do to become a reliable person at work?)"

"첫인상만으로 그 사람이 믿음직한지 알 수 있을까요? (Can you tell if a person is trustworthy just by their first impression?)"

"친구 관계에서 믿음직함이 얼마나 중요하다고 생각하나요? (How important do you think reliability is in a friendship?)"

Journal Prompts

Describe a time when someone proved to be very 믿음직하다.

Write about a product or service that you find incredibly 믿음직하다 and explain why.

Reflect on your own actions: Are you a 믿음직한 person to your friends and family? Why or why not?

Compare the concepts of being 'kind' (착하다) and being 'reliable' (믿음직하다).

Write a short recommendation letter for a colleague using the word 믿음직하다.

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

Yes, you can. While it is most commonly used for people, it is perfectly natural to describe a car, a computer, or a brand as 믿음직하다 if it is durable and reliable. For example, '이 자동차는 참 믿음직해요' (This car is very reliable).

They are practically interchangeable in daily conversation. However, '-스럽다' adds a slight nuance of 'having the feeling or appearance of'. So 믿음직스럽다 might be used slightly more when judging someone's appearance or vibe, while 믿음직하다 is a more direct statement of their reliability.

The correct pronunciation is [미듬지카다] (mi-deum-ji-ka-da). The 'ㄱ' at the end of '직' and the 'ㅎ' at the start of '하' combine to make an aspirated 'ㅋ' (k) sound. Do not try to pronounce '직' and '하' separately.

Yes, but you must use the formal polite ending (믿음직하십니다 or 믿음직합니다). It is a high compliment. However, usually, superiors use it to praise subordinates. If a subordinate says it to a boss, it should be in a context of expressing gratitude for their leadership, e.g., '팀장님이 계셔서 믿음직합니다' (It is reassuring/reliable having you here, Team Leader).

No, this is a grammatical error. 믿음직하다 is an adjective, not a transitive verb. You cannot use the object marker 을/를. You must say '그는 믿음직하다' (He is reliable) or '나는 그를 믿는다' (I trust him).

While you can say '믿음직하지 않다', native speakers frequently use the set phrase '미덥지 못하다' to mean someone or something is unreliable or untrustworthy.

Usually no. Animals don't bear the kind of social responsibility implied by 믿음직하다. If you use it for a dog, it sounds like a joke, treating the dog like a responsible human (e.g., a guard dog that does its job perfectly).

It is a Native Korean word. The root '믿다' (to believe) is native Korean. The Sino-Korean equivalent for 'trust' is 신뢰 (shin-roe).

Add '-게' to the stem: 믿음직하게. For example, '일을 믿음직하게 처리하다' means 'to handle work dependably'.

In Korean culture, children are expected to grow up and take responsibility for the family. When a child shows maturity, parents feel a sense of security for the future, which is perfectly encapsulated by the word 믿음직하다.

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