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A1 adjective Neutral #5,500 most common 2 min read

성스럽다

seongseureopda /sʌŋsɯrʌp̚t͈a̠/
Practice it

Overview

The Korean word '성스럽다' (seongseureopda) is an adjective that beautifully encapsulates the concepts of being sacred, holy, and revered, often due to a strong religious or spiritual association. Its etymology can be traced back to '성' (seong), meaning 'holy' or 'sacred,' and '스럽다' (seureopda), a suffix that transforms a noun or root into an adjective, indicating a resemblance or characteristic of something. Therefore, '성스럽다' literally translates to 'to be like holy' or 'to possess the quality of being holy.'

This word is frequently used to describe places, objects, beings, or even moments that evoke a sense of deep reverence, awe, and spiritual significance. For instance, a majestic cathedral, a serene temple, or a humble shrine can all be described as '성스러운 장소' (seongseureoun jangso – sacred place). Similarly, religious texts, artifacts, or rituals are often considered '성스러운 것' (seongseureoun geot – sacred things) or '성스러운 의식' (seongseureoun uisik – sacred ritual).

Beyond tangible objects, '성스럽다' can also describe abstract concepts or even individuals who embody purity, virtue, and a profound connection to the divine. A person known for their unwavering faith and exemplary moral character might be referred to as '성스러운 인물' (seongseureoun inmul – holy person). The word also carries a connotation of inviolability and profound respect, suggesting that something '성스럽다' should be treated with utmost care and deference.

It's important to note that while '성스럽다' often has religious undertones, its usage can extend to secular contexts where something is held in extremely high regard or considered exceptionally pure and venerable. For example, a historical monument representing a nation's enduring spirit might be described as '성스럽다' in a more metaphorical sense, signifying its profound cultural and emotional significance. The word evokes a feeling of solemnity and a recognition of something higher or more profound than the ordinary, making it a powerful and deeply meaningful term in the Korean language.

Examples

1

성스러운 의식.

Religious ceremonies.

A sacred ritual.

2

그녀의 목소리는 성스러웠다.

Describing a beautiful and pure voice, often in a spiritual context.

Her voice was holy.

3

이 곳은 우리에게 성스러운 장소입니다.

Referring to a place of religious or deep personal significance.

This place is sacred to us.

4

어머니의 사랑은 성스럽다.

Expressing the profound and pure nature of a mother's love.

A mother's love is sacred.

5

성스러운 분위기.

Describing the solemn and reverent ambiance of a place.

A holy atmosphere.

Common Collocations

성스러운 분위기
성스러운 장소
성스러운 의식
성스러운 말씀

Often Confused With

성스럽다 vs 신성하다
While both mean 'sacred' or 'holy', '성스럽다' often carries a nuance of being more 'venerable' or 'revered' due to its association with religious or spiritual sanctity, often evoking a sense of awe or profound respect. '신성하다' is a more direct and broader term for 'sacred' or 'divine', applicable to places, objects, or concepts without necessarily implying the same emotional reverence.
성스럽다 vs 거룩하다
Both '성스럽다' and '거룩하다' can be translated as 'holy' or 'sacred'. However, '거룩하다' tends to emphasize purity, righteousness, and moral impeccability, often used in a more theological or moral context, especially in Christianity. '성스럽다', while also related to sanctity, leans more towards the idea of being venerable, awe-inspiring, and profoundly revered due to its inherent sacredness or connection to the divine, not solely focusing on moral purity.

Grammar Patterns

성스러운 N N이/가 성스럽다 V-게 성스럽다

How to Use It

Usage Notes

'성스럽다' is an adjective used to describe something as sacred, holy, divine, or revered. It can be applied to a wide range of subjects. For instance, '성스러운 장소' (seongseureoun jangso) means a sacred place, and '성스러운 의식' (seongseureoun uisik) refers to a holy ritual. When describing a person, it implies a very pure, saintly, or venerable character, such as '성스러운 분' (seongseureoun bun - a holy person). It's often used in more formal or literary contexts, although it can appear in everyday speech when expressing profound admiration or awe for something perceived as exceptionally pure or divinely connected. The nuance of 'revered due to religious association' is crucial; it's not simply 'beautiful' but beautiful in a way that inspires spiritual respect. It conveys a feeling of solemnity and a sense of being touched by something extraordinary and pure.

Common Mistakes

One common mistake is confusing '성스럽다' with similar-sounding but different words, or misapplying its usage. For instance, '거룩하다' (georukhada) also means 'to be holy' or 'sacred', and while often interchangeable, '성스럽다' tends to emphasize the quality or feeling of sacredness, while '거룩하다' can sometimes imply a more inherent or absolute state of holiness, particularly in religious contexts. Another mistake could be using '성스럽다' for things that are merely beautiful or impressive but lack a spiritual or religious connotation; it's specifically about reverence due to religious or profound spiritual association. For example, a stunning mountain view might be beautiful, but unless it has a sacred meaning, '성스럽다' wouldn't be the most appropriate descriptor. It's important to remember the nuanced difference and context in which each word is used to ensure accurate expression.

Tips

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Usage Tip

'성스럽다' (seongseureopda) is an adjective used to describe something that is sacred, holy, or revered due to its religious association. It often conveys a sense of solemnity, purity, and spiritual significance. You can use it when talking about places, objects, rituals, or even individuals who embody these qualities. For instance, a temple or a holy text could be described as '성스럽다'.
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Common Pitfall

While '성스럽다' generally has a positive connotation, avoid using it in casual or trivial contexts, as it might sound overly dramatic or inappropriate. It's reserved for situations where there's a genuine sense of reverence or spiritual importance. Don't confuse it with '아름답다' (areumdapda - beautiful) or '훌륭하다' (hullyunghada - excellent), which describe general positive qualities rather than religious sanctity.
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Grammar Note

As an adjective, '성스럽다' can be conjugated in various ways depending on the tense and formality. For example, in the declarative present informal, it becomes '성스러워요' (seongseureowoyo). When modifying a noun, it takes the form '성스러운' (seongseureoun), as in '성스러운 장소' (seongseureoun jangso - a sacred place). Remember the 'ㅂ' irregular conjugation rule: when 'ㅂ' is followed by a vowel ending, it changes to '우' or '오'.

Word Origin

Sino-Korean word from 聖 (seong, 'holy') + 스럽다 (-seureopda, suffix meaning 'to be like, to have the quality of').

Cultural Context

The Korean word '성스럽다' (seongseureopda) carries a deep sense of reverence and sanctity, often rooted in religious and spiritual traditions. In Korean culture, concepts of the sacred are frequently intertwined with Buddhism, shamanism, and more recently, Christianity. '성스럽다' can describe places like ancient temples or shrines, rituals performed with great solemnity, or figures considered divine or exceptionally pure. It evokes a feeling of awe, respect, and a recognition of something set apart from the mundane. The emphasis is often on purity, solemnity, and a connection to a higher power or spiritual essence. It’s not just about being 'holy' in a Western sense, but also encompassing a profound sense of spiritual beauty and untouchable dignity. This concept contributes to a respectful demeanor when encountering such things.

Memory Tip

Associate '성스럽다' (seongseureopda) with '성' (seong), which can mean 'holy' or 'sacred' as in '성경' (seonggyeong - Bible) or '성인' (seong-in - saint). The '스럽다' (seureopda) ending adds the meaning of 'to be like' or 'to have the quality of'. So, '성스럽다' means 'to be holy-like' or 'to have the quality of being sacred'. Imagine a grand cathedral or a revered ancient text; these are '성스러운' (seongseureoun) things.

Frequently Asked Questions

4 questions
'성스럽다' (seongseureopda) is a Korean adjective that means 'to be sacred,' 'to be holy,' or 'to be revered due to religious association.' It conveys a sense of profound respect, sanctity, and spiritual significance. When something is described as '성스럽다,' it implies that it is set apart, pure, and often has a divine or transcendent quality. This word is typically used in religious or deeply spiritual contexts to describe places, objects, rituals, or individuals that are considered consecrated or divine.
Certainly! Here are a few examples: 1. '그 교회는 성스러운 분위기로 가득했다.' (Geu gyohoe-neun seongseureoun bunwigi-ro gadeukhaetda.) - 'The church was filled with a sacred atmosphere.' 2. '그녀는 성스러운 의식을 경건하게 지켰다.' (Geunyeo-neun seongseureoun uisik-eul gyeonggeonhage jikyeotda.) - 'She reverently observed the sacred ritual.' 3. '성스러운 산 정상에서 일출을 보았다.' (Seongseureoun san jeongsang-eseo ilchul-eul boatda.) - 'I saw the sunrise from the sacred mountaintop.' 4. '그는 성스러운 맹세를 했다.' (Geu-neun seongseureoun maengse-reul haetda.) - 'He made a sacred vow.' These examples illustrate how '성스럽다' can be used to describe places, actions, or promises that hold deep spiritual or religious importance.
There are several words in Korean that are related to or can be considered synonyms for '성스럽다,' although each might carry slightly different nuances. Some of these include: 1. '거룩하다' (georukhada): This is a very close synonym, often also translated as 'holy' or 'sacred,' and is frequently used in religious texts. 2. '신성하다' (sinsseonghada): This emphasizes divinity and a divine nature, meaning 'divine' or 'sacred.' 3. '경건하다' (gyeonggeonhada): While not a direct synonym, it describes the feeling of reverence or piety one might have in the presence of something sacred. 4. '숭고하다' (sunggohada): This means 'sublime' or 'noble,' and can be used to describe something that evokes a sense of awe and profound respect, similar to sacredness. These words help to convey different shades of meaning related to holiness and reverence.
'성스럽다' is most commonly used in contexts related to religion, spirituality, and profound respect. You will often encounter it when discussing: 1. **Religious sites:** Temples, churches, shrines, mosques, or other places of worship. 2. **Religious objects:** Icons, relics, scriptures, or artifacts considered holy. 3. **Rituals and ceremonies:** Sacred rites, blessings, or traditional practices. 4. **Religious figures:** Saints, prophets, or other revered individuals. 5. **Concepts of divinity:** Anything pertaining to God, gods, or a higher power. It is also sometimes used in a more metaphorical sense to describe something that is deeply cherished, pure, and inspires a sense of awe, even if not strictly religious. However, its primary association remains with the spiritual and divine.

Test Yourself

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그 오래된 사원은 아주 ____.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
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이곳은 고대부터 ____ 장소로 여겨져 왔다.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
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그녀의 헌신적인 사랑은 마치 ____ 불꽃 같았다.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:

Score: /3

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