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두려워하다

A2 verb 12 min read

두려워하다

duryeowohada

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips 두려워하다 in 30 Seconds

Explanation 두려워하다 in your Level:

At the A1 level, you are just beginning to learn how to express feelings. You might already know '좋아하다' (to like) or '싫어하다' (to dislike). '두려워하다' is a bit more advanced, but it follows the same pattern. It means 'to fear' or 'to be afraid'. At this stage, you should focus on the basic structure: [Subject] + [Thing] + 을/를 + 두려워해요. For example, '나는 개를 두려워해요' (I fear dogs). However, most A1 learners use '무서워해요' for animals. You can think of '두려워하다' as a 'grown-up' way to say you are scared. It is important to remember that this word ends in -하다, so it is a verb. You use it when you want to talk about what someone is feeling toward something else. Even if you don't use it every day, recognizing it when you see it in a simple storybook or a song is a great first step. You should practice conjugating it in the present tense: 두려워해요. Try to make very simple sentences about things people might be afraid of, like 'the dark' (어둠) or 'exams' (시험). Remember, the most important part at this level is getting the object particle (을/를) right. Don't worry about the deep philosophical meanings yet; just treat it as a synonym for 'to be scared of' that you might see in more serious contexts. As you learn more words, you will see how '두려워하다' is used to describe more than just being scared of a spider. It’s about a feeling that stays with you. If you can remember '두려워해요', you are doing great!

At the A2 level, you should start distinguishing between different types of fear. While you still use '무서워하다' for things like ghosts or scary movies, you can now use '두려워하다' for more 'real-life' anxieties. For example, you might say '저는 실패를 두려워해요' (I fear failure). This shows that you understand the word is used for abstract concepts. You should also be comfortable with the past tense '두려워했어요' and the negative form '두려워하지 않아요'. At this level, you will likely encounter this word in reading passages about people's worries or in simple news clips. One key thing to practice is the nominalized form: [Verb] + 는 것을 두려워하다. For example, '틀리는 것을 두려워하지 마세요' (Don't be afraid of making a mistake). This is a very common phrase in Korean classrooms! You are also learning that Korean has different ways to talk about feelings for yourself versus other people. While you can say '저는 두려워요' (I am fearful), if you want to say 'My friend is afraid of the future', you should use '제 친구는 미래를 두려워해요'. This '-어/아 하다' pattern is a major grammar point at A2, and '두려워하다' is a perfect example of it. You should also start noticing how this word appears in polite formal situations (두려워합니다). By the end of A2, you should be able to use this word to describe your general anxieties about life, like work, school, or relationships, and understand it when others do the same.

At the B1 level, you are expected to use '두려워하다' with more nuance and in more complex sentence structures. You should understand that this word carries a certain weight and is often used for significant life events or societal issues. You might use it in the context of '미래를 두려워하다' (fearing the future) or '변화를 두려워하다' (fearing change). At this stage, you should be familiar with the pattern '~ㄹ까 봐 두려워하다' (to fear that something might happen). For example, '비밀이 밝혀질까 봐 두려워해요' (I fear that the secret might be revealed). This allows you to express specific, conditional fears. You should also be able to recognize the word in various registers, from casual conversations to more formal written texts. In B1, you start to explore Korean literature and media more deeply, where '두려워하다' is used to describe characters' internal conflicts. You should also be aware of synonyms like '겁내다' and understand that '겁내다' implies a certain lack of courage, whereas '두려워하다' is a more neutral description of the emotion. Your ability to choose '두려워하다' over '무서워하다' in an essay about social problems will demonstrate your growing linguistic sophistication. You should also practice using the word in the middle of sentences with connectors, like '두려워하면서도' (even while fearing) or '두려워한 나머지' (to the point of fearing so much). This level is about moving beyond simple subject-object-verb sentences and into expressive, descriptive language.

At the B2 level, you should have a firm grasp of '두려워하다' in both formal and informal contexts. You can use it to discuss complex social, political, and philosophical topics. For instance, you might analyze a news article about '인구 감소를 두려워하는 사회' (a society that fears population decline) or '기술의 발전을 두려워하는 사람들' (people who fear the advancement of technology). You should be able to distinguish '두려워하다' from more formal terms like '우려하다' (to be concerned/apprehensive). While '우려하다' is used in official statements, '두려워하다' is used when emphasizing the actual human emotion of fear behind the concern. At B2, you should also be comfortable with the word's usage in idiomatic or semi-idiomatic expressions. You might encounter it in the form of '두려워할 것 없다' (there is nothing to fear) or '두려워하는 기색' (a sign of being afraid). Your writing should reflect a clear understanding of the 'ㅂ' irregular conjugation and the transitive nature of the verb. You should also be able to use the word to describe complex psychological states, such as '자신을 직면하는 것을 두려워하다' (fearing to face oneself). This level requires you to not only use the word correctly but to use it in a way that sounds natural and culturally appropriate. You should be able to participate in a debate or discussion about what people '두려워한다' in modern society and provide well-reasoned explanations using this vocabulary.

At the C1 level, you are approaching near-native fluency in your use of '두려워하다'. You understand its deep cultural and psychological connotations. You can appreciate how the word is used in high-level literature, such as in the works of famous Korean novelists, to depict existential dread or profound moral anxiety. You are aware of the subtle differences between '두려워하다' and '경외하다' (to fear and revere), and you can use them appropriately in academic or religious contexts. At this level, you should be able to use the word in sophisticated grammatical constructions, such as '두려워한 나머지 ~하고 말았다' (fearing so much that one ended up...). You can also use it in the passive or causative forms if the context requires it, although those are rare. You should be able to discuss the historical evolution of the word and how its usage might have changed in different eras of Korean history. For example, how 'fearing the King' in the Joseon Dynasty compares to 'fearing the law' in modern Korea. Your ability to use '두려워하다' to express subtle nuances in an essay or a professional presentation will be a hallmark of your C1 proficiency. You should also be able to understand and use synonyms like '외경하다' or '전전긍긍하다' to add variety and precision to your speech. At this stage, the word is not just a vocabulary item but a tool for deep expression and analysis of the human experience.

At the C2 level, your mastery of '두려워하다' is complete. You can use it with the same level of nuance as a highly educated native speaker. You are familiar with its use in archaic texts, legal documents, and philosophical treatises. You can discuss the etymological roots of the word and how the '-어/아 하다' construction reflects the Korean linguistic worldview regarding the expression of emotions. You can effortlessly switch between '두려워하다', '우려하다', '염려하다', and '경외하다' depending on the exact shade of meaning and the required register. You can interpret the use of this word in complex metaphors and allegories in modern Korean cinema and literature. Whether you are writing a doctoral thesis in Korean or giving a keynote speech at a conference, you use '두려워하다' to convey precise emotional and intellectual states. You also understand the social implications of using this word—how it can be used to show humility, respect, or profound insight. You are aware of how the word is used in different dialects or how it might appear in North Korean standard language (Munhwaeo). Your command of the word allows you to play with its meaning, perhaps using it ironically or in unexpected contexts for rhetorical effect. At C2, '두려워하다' is a fully integrated part of your extensive linguistic repertoire, used with absolute precision and cultural sensitivity.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

두려워하다 in 30 Seconds

두려워하다 means 'to fear' and is a transitive verb requiring an object with particles 을 or 를.
It is usually used for abstract, serious, or long-term fears like failure, death, or the future.
It is the verbal form of the adjective 두렵다, created by adding the suffix -어/아 하다.
Commonly used in formal writing, news, literature, and to describe the feelings of others.

The Korean verb 두려워하다 (du-ryeo-wo-ha-da) is a cornerstone of emotional expression in the Korean language, specifically used to describe the act of fearing or being afraid of something. At its core, it is the verbalized form of the descriptive verb (adjective) 두렵다 (du-ryeop-da). In Korean grammar, when we want to describe the emotions of a third person or express an emotion as an active feeling directed toward an object, we often attach the suffix -어/아 하다 to the adjective stem. This transformation is crucial because Korean culture and language often distinguish between the internal state of the self and the observable emotional actions of others.

Core Definition: To feel fear, to dread, or to be apprehensive about a person, situation, or abstract concept. It implies a deeper, often more psychological or existential fear compared to its common synonym '무서워하다'.

While '무서워하다' is frequently used for immediate, physical threats—like a scary movie, a spider, or a dark alley—두려워하다 tends to lean toward more significant, abstract, or long-term anxieties. For example, one might '두려워하다' failure, the future, or the judgment of others. It carries a weight of gravity and is often found in literature, formal speeches, and serious personal reflections.

그는 실패하는 것을 두려워하다 보니 새로운 도전을 하지 못한다. (Because he fears failing, he cannot take on new challenges.)

In terms of usage frequency, you will encounter this word in news reports discussing societal fears (e.g., fearing an economic crash), in psychological contexts discussing phobias, and in historical dramas where characters fear the consequences of their political actions. It is a 'high-register' word that adds a layer of sophistication to your Korean vocabulary.

Grammatical Nuance: Because it is a transitive verb, it must take an object marked with the particles 을 or 를. This is a key difference from the adjective '두렵다', which takes the subject marker 이 or 가 for the thing that is fearful.

Socially, expressing fear using '두려워하다' can signal vulnerability and honesty. In Korean society, where maintaining a strong exterior is often valued, admitting what one '두려워한다' is seen as a sign of deep trust or significant self-awareness. It is also used in religious contexts, such as 'fearing God' (하나님을 두려워하다), which implies a sense of awe and reverence combined with fear.

많은 사람들이 노후의 빈곤을 가장 두려워합니다. (Many people fear poverty in old age the most.)

Furthermore, the word is often paired with the negative form '두려워하지 마라' (Do not be afraid), which is a common phrase of encouragement. This is frequently used in motivational speeches and self-help literature to urge people to face their inner demons and move forward despite their anxieties.

Usage Contexts: 1. Abstract concepts (Future, Death, Failure) 2. Social consequences (Judgment, Rejection) 3. Powerful entities (God, Law, Tyrants) 4. Psychological states (Loneliness, Change)

변화를 두려워하는 사람은 발전을 기대하기 어렵다. (It is hard for someone who fears change to expect progress.)

그는 죽음을 두려워하지 않는 용감한 전사였다. (He was a brave warrior who did not fear death.)

Using 두려워하다 correctly requires an understanding of its transitive nature. Unlike descriptive verbs that function like adjectives in English, this is an action verb. This means it always needs an object—the thing that is being feared. The object must be followed by the object particles 을 or 를.

Sentence Structure: [Subject] + [Object]을/를 + 두려워하다

One of the most common ways to use this word is with nominalized verbs. If you want to say you fear 'doing' something, you first turn the verb into a noun using the ~는 것 pattern. For instance, 'to fear failing' becomes '실패하는 것을 두려워하다'. This allows for complex expressions of anxiety about specific actions or life events.

사람들은 남의 시선을 두려워해서 하고 싶은 말을 못 할 때가 많다. (People often cannot say what they want because they fear the gaze of others.)

The conjugation follows the standard rules for -하다 verbs. In the present polite form, it becomes 두려워해요. In the past tense, it is 두려워했어요. In formal settings, you will use 두려워합니다. Understanding these levels of politeness is essential for integrating the word into natural conversation. When writing an essay or a diary, the plain form 두려워한다 is appropriate.

Common Conjugations: Present: 두려워해요 / 두려워합니다 Past: 두려워했어요 / 두려워했습니다 Future: 두려워할 거예요 / 두려워하겠습니다 Negative: 두려워하지 않아요 / 두려워하지 않습니다

In literature and dramatic scripts, you might see the causative or passive forms, though they are less common for beginners. More importantly, the word is often used in the form 두려워하는 as an adjective modifier. For example, '두려워하는 마음' means 'a fearing heart' or 'a heart full of fear'. This is a very poetic way to describe someone's emotional state.

그 아이는 어둠을 두려워하며 울고 있었다. (That child was crying while fearing the darkness.)

Another advanced usage involves the pattern ~ㄹ까 봐 두려워하다, which translates to 'to fear that [something might happen]'. This is incredibly useful for expressing specific worries. '비가 올까 봐 두려워해요' (I fear it might rain) sounds a bit dramatic, but '시험에 떨어질까 봐 두려워해요' (I fear I might fail the exam) is a very natural and common expression of anxiety.

Comparison with '무서워하다': While both mean 'to fear', '무서워하다' is for 'scary' things (ghosts, monsters), while '두려워하다' is for 'dreadful' things (consequences, truth, existence).

우리는 진실이 밝혀지는 것을 두려워해서는 안 됩니다. (We must not fear the truth being revealed.)

신을 두려워하는 마음이 그를 정직하게 만들었다. (The heart that fears God made him honest.)

You will encounter 두려워하다 in various professional and artistic spheres in Korea. It is not just a word for daily chit-chat; it is a word of weight and consequence. If you are watching a Korean news broadcast, you will often hear it in the context of politics or economics. Journalists use it to describe the public's reaction to new policies, economic instability, or international tensions.

In the Media: News anchors might say, '시장은 인플레이션을 두려워하고 있습니다' (The market is fearing inflation). This usage highlights the collective anxiety of a group or an institution.

In the world of K-Dramas and movies, particularly those in the thriller, historical (Sageuk), or melodrama genres, 두려워하다 is a frequent guest. In Sageuks, a King might 'fear' a rebellion, or a servant might 'fear' the King's displeasure. In these contexts, the word emphasizes the power dynamics and the existential stakes involved. It’s much more than just being 'scared'; it’s about the dread of potential ruin.

왕은 백성들의 반란을 두려워하여 군대를 모았다. (The King feared the people's rebellion and gathered an army.)

Literature and poetry are perhaps the most common places to find this word. Korean authors use it to explore the human condition. Phrases like '고독을 두려워하다' (to fear loneliness) or '자아를 잃는 것을 두려워하다' (to fear losing one's self) are staples of modern Korean literary thought. The word allows for a nuanced exploration of internal psychological landscapes that '무서워하다' simply cannot reach.

In K-Pop Lyrics: You'll find this word in songs by artists like BTS or IU, where they discuss the fears of fame, the fear of losing their fans, or the fear of time passing. It adds a poetic, vulnerable quality to the lyrics.

Religious services, specifically sermons, also use this word extensively. Whether it's fearing God (경외하다 is also used here, but 두려워하다 is more common in general speech) or fearing the consequences of sin, the word carries a moral and ethical weight in these settings. It is used to instill a sense of responsibility and caution.

우리는 하늘을 두려워할 줄 알아야 합니다. (We must know how to fear the heavens/fate.)

Lastly, in professional self-development seminars or business coaching in Korea, you will hear speakers encourage their audience not to '두려워하다' failure. '실패를 두려워하지 마세요' (Don't fear failure) is a mantra in the Korean startup scene and educational system, reflecting a cultural push to overcome the traditional fear of losing face or failing to meet societal expectations.

Summary of Contexts: - Historical Dramas (Power/Betrayal) - News Reports (Economy/Societal Trends) - K-Pop & Poetry (Emotional Depth/Fame) - Religious Sermons (Awe/Morality) - Business/Education (Motivation/Overcoming failure)

그 가수는 인기가 떨어지는 것을 항상 두려워했습니다. (That singer always feared their popularity would drop.)

어떤 사람들은 진실보다 거짓을 더 두려워합니다. (Some people fear lies more than the truth.)

One of the most frequent mistakes English speakers make when learning 두려워하다 is confusing it with the adjective 두렵다. In English, 'to be afraid' and 'to fear' are often interchangeable, but in Korean, the grammar dictates a strict difference. If you use '두렵다', you must use the subject marker (이/가) for the thing you are afraid of. If you use '두려워하다', you must use the object marker (을/를).

Mistake 1: Wrong Particles: Incorrect: 미래가 두려워해요. (X) Correct: 미래를 두려워해요. (O) Correct: 미래가 두려워요. (O - using the adjective)

Another common error is misusing 두려워하다 and 무서워하다. While they overlap, using '두려워하다' for a small spider or a loud noise can sound overly dramatic or even slightly unnatural, like saying 'I harbor a deep existential dread of that spider.' Conversely, using '무서워하다' for 'death' or 'the end of the world' might sound a bit childish or superficial, though it is not grammatically wrong.

Incorrect: 나는 벌레를 두려워해요. (Too dramatic for a bug) Better: 나는 벌레를 무서워해요. (Natural)

A third mistake involves the perspective of the speaker. In Korean, there is a traditional rule that verbs ending in -어/아 하다 are primarily used for third-person subjects (he, she, they) because you cannot truly 'know' another person's internal feeling, only observe their outward expression of it. However, in modern Korean, this rule has relaxed significantly, and it is perfectly fine to use '두려워하다' for yourself (I fear...). However, beginning students often forget that they *cannot* use the simple adjective form '두렵다' to describe *someone else's* feelings without adding '-어/아 하다' or using a reporting structure.

Mistake 2: Third-Person Perspectives: Incorrect: 제 친구는 미래가 두려워요. (X - sounds like the future is fearful to *me* because of the friend) Correct: 제 친구는 미래를 두려워해요. (O)

Finally, learners sometimes struggle with the conjugation of the stem. Since '두렵다' is a 'ㅂ' irregular verb, when it combines with '-어/아 하다', the 'ㅂ' changes to '우'. This results in 두려워하다. Some students mistakenly write '두렵어하다', which is incorrect. Always remember the 'ㅂ' to '우' transformation for this word family.

Incorrect: 그들은 실패를 두렵어합니다. (X) Correct: 그들은 실패를 두려워합니다. (O)

Summary of Errors: 1. Using -이/가 instead of -을/를. 2. Using it for minor, physical scares (use 무서워하다 instead). 3. Forgetting the 'ㅂ' irregular conjugation rule. 4. Using the adjective form for other people's feelings.

실패를 두려워하지 않는 자세가 중요합니다. (An attitude of not fearing failure is important.)

누구나 변화를 두려워할 수 있습니다. (Anyone can fear change.)

To truly master 두려워하다, you must understand how it fits into the broader spectrum of Korean words for fear and anxiety. Korean is rich in emotional vocabulary, and choosing the right word can change the entire tone of your sentence. Let's compare 두려워하다 with its closest relatives.

두려워하다 vs. 무서워하다: 무서워하다: Used for immediate, instinctive fear. Scared of ghosts, dogs, or heights. It's more 'primal'. 두려워하다: Used for abstract, psychological, or existential dread. Fear of failure, the future, or social consequences.

Another important alternative is 겁내다 (geop-nae-da). This word often carries a slightly negative connotation, suggesting that someone is being a 'coward' or is 'shrinking back' from a challenge. While '두려워하다' is a neutral or even noble description of fear, '겁내다' can sometimes imply a lack of courage.

그는 새로운 일을 시작하는 것을 겁내고 있다. (He is shrinking back from/scared of starting a new job.)

In formal or academic contexts, you might encounter 우려하다 (u-ryeo-ha-da). This is often translated as 'to be concerned' or 'to be apprehensive'. It is the word of choice for government officials or news reports when discussing potential problems. It is less about the 'feeling' of fear and more about the 'intellectual recognition' of a threat.

Comparison Table: - 두려워하다: Deep, abstract fear. - 무서워하다: Immediate, physical fear. - 겁내다: Timidity, being a 'scaredy-cat'. - 우려하다: Formal concern/apprehension. - 경외하다: Awe-inspired fear (reverence).

For very intense fear, you might use 공포에 떨다 (to tremble in terror). This is much stronger than '두려워하다' and describes a physical reaction to extreme terror. It is often used in horror novels or news reports about traumatic events. On the other end of the spectrum, 걱정하다 (to worry) is a much milder word that everyone uses daily for small anxieties.

정부는 경제 위기를 우려하고 있습니다. (The government is concerned about the economic crisis.)

In summary, choose 두려워하다 when the fear is significant, abstract, and deeply felt. It is the most versatile word for describing the complex anxieties of adult life, from the fear of being alone to the fear of making a mistake. By understanding these nuances, you can navigate Korean social situations with much greater emotional intelligence.

Advanced Synonyms: 1. 외경하다: To fear and respect (highly formal). 2. 전전긍긍하다: To be in a state of constant fear/trembling (idiomatic). 3. 기겁하다: To be startled out of one's wits (slangy/informal).

그녀는 혼자 남겨지는 것을 가장 두려워합니다. (She fears being left alone the most.)

우리는 변화의 물결을 두려워해서는 안 됩니다. (We must not fear the waves of change.)

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

The 'ㅂ' irregular conjugation in '두렵다' (which becomes '두려워-') is a remnant of an ancient 'p' sound that softened into a 'w' sound over centuries of linguistic evolution.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /tu.ɾjʌ.wʌ.ɦa.da/

US /du.ɾjʌ.wʌ.ɦa.da/

In Korean, stress is generally even across syllables, but a slight emphasis can be placed on the first syllable '두' for clarity.

Rhymes With

미워하다 (mi-wo-ha-da - to hate) 부러워하다 (bu-reo-wo-ha-da - to envy) 괴로워하다 (goe-ro-wo-ha-da - to be in pain) 즐거워하다 (jeul-geo-wo-ha-da - to be joyful) 그리워하다 (geu-ri-wo-ha-da - to miss/long for) 무서워하다 (mu-seo-wo-ha-da - to fear) 어려워하다 (eo-ryeo-wo-ha-da - to find difficult) 가까워하다 (ga-kka-wo-ha-da - to feel close)

Common Errors

Pronouncing 'ryeo' as two separate syllables 'ree-oh'.
Failing to change the 'ㅂ' in '두렵다' to '우' before adding '-어하다'.
Pronouncing the 'h' in 'ha' too strongly; it is often soft in natural speech.
Stress on the 'wa' syllable incorrectly.
Confusing the 'u' (ㅜ) sound with 'eo' (ㅓ).

Difficulty Rating

Reading 3/5

Common in literature and news, but the 'ㅂ' irregular conjugation can be tricky for beginners.

Writing 4/5

Requires correct usage of object particles and nominalization patterns.

Speaking 3/5

Easy to pronounce, but choosing it over '무서워하다' requires situational awareness.

Listening 2/5

Clear pronunciation makes it easy to recognize once the word is known.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

무섭다 두렵다 하다 -어/아 하다 마음

Learn Next

우려하다 염려하다 경외하다 용기 극복하다

Advanced

전전긍긍하다 노심초사하다 경거망동하다

Grammar to Know

-어/아 하다

슬프다 -> 슬퍼하다, 두렵다 -> 두려워하다

ㅂ irregular conjugation

돕다 -> 도와요, 두렵다 -> 두려워요

Nominalization (~는 것)

실패하다 -> 실패하는 것

Object particles (을/를)

미래를 두려워하다

Negative form (~지 않다)

두려워하지 않다

Examples by Level

저는 개를 두려워해요.

I fear dogs.

Basic subject-object-verb structure with the object particle '를'.

그는 어둠을 두려워해요.

He fears the darkness.

Using '을' because '어둠' ends in a consonant.

우리는 시험을 두려워해요.

We fear the exam.

Present tense polite form '두려워해요'.

동생은 귀신을 두려워해요.

My younger sibling fears ghosts.

Third-person subject '동생'.

언니는 높은 곳을 두려워해요.

My older sister fears high places.

The object is '높은 곳' (high place).

아이들은 치과를 두려워해요.

Children fear the dentist.

Plural subject '아이들'.

그녀는 혼자 있기를 두려워해요.

She fears being alone.

Using the nominalized form '있기' (being).

저는 실패를 두려워하지 않아요.

I do not fear failure.

Negative form '두려워하지 않아요'.

실패하는 것을 두려워하지 마세요.

Don't be afraid of failing.

The pattern '~는 것을 두려워하다' is used for actions.

많은 사람들이 미래를 두려워합니다.

Many people fear the future.

Formal polite form '두려워합니다'.

그는 부모님을 두려워해서 거짓말을 했어요.

He lied because he feared his parents.

Using the connective '~어서' (because).

우리는 전쟁을 두려워하며 살고 있어요.

We are living while fearing war.

Present progressive form '~하며 살고 있다'.

제 친구는 뱀을 아주 두려워해요.

My friend fears snakes very much.

Using the adverb '아주' (very) for emphasis.

비밀이 알려지는 것을 두려워하세요?

Are you afraid of the secret being known?

Question form of '두려워하다'.

그녀는 새로운 도전을 두려워하지 않았어요.

She did not fear new challenges.

Past tense negative form '두려워하지 않았어요'.

사람들은 변화를 두려워하기 마련이에요.

People are bound to fear change.

Using the pattern '~하기 마련이다' (to be bound to).

그는 남들의 시선을 지나치게 두려워한다.

He fears the gaze of others excessively.

Plain form '두려워한다' used in writing or objective descriptions.

시험에 떨어질까 봐 두려워하는 학생들이 많다.

There are many students who fear they might fail the exam.

The pattern '~ㄹ까 봐 두려워하다' (fearing that...).

우리는 진실이 밝혀지는 것을 두려워해서는 안 됩니다.

We must not fear the truth being revealed.

Using '~어서는 안 되다' (must not).

그 가수는 인기가 식을까 봐 두려워했습니다.

That singer feared their popularity might cool down.

Abstract fear related to career and social status.

죽음을 두려워하지 않는 사람은 없습니다.

There is no one who does not fear death.

Existential use of the word.

그는 상사의 질책을 두려워하여 보고를 늦췄다.

He delayed the report because he feared his boss's reprimand.

Using '~하여' (because/and) in a more formal way.

아이들은 부모가 떠날까 봐 두려워하곤 합니다.

Children often fear that their parents might leave.

Using '~하곤 하다' (to do something often/habitually).

우리는 환경 파괴의 결과를 두려워해야 합니다.

We must fear the consequences of environmental destruction.

Using '~해야 하다' (must/should).

그 정치인은 민심을 잃는 것을 가장 두려워했다.

That politician feared losing the public's heart the most.

Transitive use with a complex noun phrase object.

기술의 발달이 인간을 소외시킬까 봐 두려워하는 목소리가 높다.

Voices fearing that technology might alienate humans are loud.

Using '두려워하는' as a modifier for '목소리' (voice/opinion).

그는 자신의 무능함이 탄로 날까 봐 두려워하며 살았다.

He lived while fearing that his incompetence might be exposed.

Describing a long-term psychological state.

우리는 변화의 물결을 두려워하기보다는 맞서 싸워야 합니다.

Rather than fearing the waves of change, we must fight against them.

Using '~하기보다는' (rather than doing).

많은 노인들이 고독사를 두려워하고 있습니다.

Many elderly people fear dying alone.

Social issue context.

그녀는 사랑을 잃는 것보다 자신을 잃는 것을 더 두려워했다.

She feared losing herself more than losing love.

Comparative structure with '보다' and '더'.

그들은 신의 노여움을 두려워하여 제사를 지냈다.

They performed a ritual because they feared the anger of the gods.

Religious/Historical context.

범죄자들은 법의 심판을 두려워해야 마땅하다.

It is only right that criminals fear the judgment of the law.

Using '~해야 마땅하다' (it is only right/proper to...).

현대인들은 존재의 허무함을 두려워한 나머지 끊임없이 무언가에 집착한다.

Modern people, fearing the futility of existence, constantly obsess over something.

Using '~한 나머지' to show a result of extreme emotion.

작가는 독자들에게 잊혀지는 것을 죽음보다 더 두려워했다.

The writer feared being forgotten by readers more than death.

Passive nominalization '잊혀지는 것'.

그는 권력의 속성을 잘 알기에 권력을 두려워할 줄 알았다.

Because he knew the nature of power well, he knew how to fear it.

Using '~할 줄 알다' (to know how to).

우리는 인공지능이 인간의 통제를 벗어날 가능성을 두려워하고 있다.

We fear the possibility of AI escaping human control.

Abstract scientific and ethical context.

그 철학자는 대중의 무지를 두려워하며 계몽에 힘썼다.

The philosopher, fearing the ignorance of the masses, strove for enlightenment.

Using '~하며' to show simultaneous action/state.

그녀는 과거의 상처가 되풀이될까 봐 두려워하며 마음의 문을 닫았다.

Fearing that the wounds of the past might repeat, she closed the door to her heart.

Psychological depth and metaphorical language.

정부는 시장의 혼란이 가중될 것을 두려워하여 금리 인상을 단행했다.

Fearing that market turmoil would worsen, the government implemented an interest rate hike.

Formal economic context with '단행하다' (to carry out).

인간은 자연의 거대한 힘 앞에 압도당하며 그것을 두려워해 왔다.

Humans have been overwhelmed by and have feared the great power of nature.

Present perfect progressive form '~해 왔다'.

인간 소외의 극단적 형태인 고독을 두려워하는 것은 보편적 실존의 문제이다.

Fearing loneliness, an extreme form of human alienation, is a universal existential issue.

Highly academic and philosophical sentence structure.

그는 역사의 심판을 두려워하지 않는 자들의 오만함을 경계했다.

He was wary of the arrogance of those who do not fear the judgment of history.

Moral and historical weight with '경계하다' (to be wary of).

진정한 용기란 두려움이 없는 것이 아니라, 두려워하는 대상을 직시하는 것이다.

True courage is not the absence of fear, but facing the object of fear directly.

Philosophical definition using the noun '대상' (object).

권력자가 백성을 두려워하지 않을 때, 그 국가는 쇠락의 길로 접어든다.

When a ruler does not fear the people, that nation enters the path of decline.

Political philosophy and formal connective '~ㄹ 때'.

그는 자신의 내면에 도사린 어둠을 두려워하며 평생을 고뇌했다.

He agonized his whole life, fearing the darkness lurking within himself.

Literary expression '도사린 어둠' (lurking darkness).

우리는 미지의 세계가 가져올 불확실성을 두려워하면서도 끊임없이 탐구한다.

While fearing the uncertainty that the unknown world will bring, we constantly explore.

Complex connective '~하면서도' (while... also).

도덕적 해이가 만연한 사회에서 양심을 지키는 자들은 박해를 두려워한다.

In a society where moral hazard is rampant, those who keep their conscience fear persecution.

Advanced vocabulary like '도덕적 해이' (moral hazard) and '박해' (persecution).

죽음이라는 절대적 타자를 두려워하는 것은 인간의 근원적 한계이다.

Fearing the absolute 'other' that is death is a fundamental human limitation.

Metaphysical language using '절대적 타자' (absolute other).

Common Collocations

실패를 두려워하다

미래를 두려워하다

남의 시선을 두려워하다

죽음을 두려워하다

변화를 두려워하다

신을 두려워하다

거절을 두려워하다

진실을 두려워하다

비난을 두려워하다

고독을 두려워하다

Common Phrases

두려워하지 마세요

— Don't be afraid. A common phrase of encouragement.

걱정 마세요, 두려워하지 마세요.

두려워할 것 없다

— There is nothing to fear. Used to reassure someone.

우리가 함께라면 두려워할 것 없어요.

무엇을 두려워하나요?

— What are you afraid of? A direct question about someone's fears.

당신은 무엇을 가장 두려워하나요?

두려워하는 마음

— A fearing heart/mind. Used to describe the feeling itself.

두려워하는 마음을 버려야 합니다.

두려워할 줄 아는

— Knowing how to fear (having a healthy respect/caution).

그는 법을 두려워할 줄 아는 사람이다.

두려워하며 떨다

— To tremble with fear. Describes a physical reaction.

그는 심판을 두려워하며 떨고 있었다.

두려워하기 시작하다

— To start to fear. Describes the onset of an emotion.

사람들은 점점 인공지능을 두려워하기 시작했다.

전혀 두려워하지 않다

— To not fear at all. Shows strong bravery.

그는 죽음을 전혀 두려워하지 않았다.

두려워하는 기색

— A look or sign of fear.

그의 얼굴에는 두려워하는 기색이 역력했다.

두려워할 필요 없다

— No need to fear. Similar to 'nothing to fear'.

실패를 두려워할 필요는 전혀 없습니다.

Often Confused With

두려워하다 vs 두렵다

Adjective form. Use '이/가' for the object of fear. Describes a state.

두려워하다 vs 무서워하다

Verb for immediate/physical fear. More common in casual speech for tangible objects.

두려워하다 vs 걱정하다

To worry. A milder form of anxiety, not necessarily 'fear'.

Idioms & Expressions

"호랑이보다 더 두려워하다"

— To fear something more than a tiger. Used for something extremely terrifying.

옛날 사람들은 세금을 호랑이보다 더 두려워했다.

Old-fashioned/Idiomatic

"하늘을 두려워하다"

— To fear the heavens. Means to fear divine retribution or fate.

하늘을 두려워할 줄 알아야 정직하게 산다.

Moral/Traditional

"두려워할 줄 모르는 하룻강아지"

— A puppy that doesn't know how to fear (the tiger). Means a reckless young person.

그는 정말 두려워할 줄 모르는 하룻강아지 같았다.

Proverbial

"자라 보고 놀란 가슴 솥뚜껑 보고 두려워한다"

— A heart surprised by a turtle fears a pot lid. Means being overly cautious after a bad experience.

한 번 사고를 당하니 작은 소리도 두려워하게 된다.

Proverbial

"귀신도 두려워할"

— Something so scary or powerful even ghosts would fear it.

그의 화난 모습은 귀신도 두려워할 정도였다.

Exaggeration

"두려워하며 물러서다"

— To step back in fear. Describes retreating from a challenge.

그는 어려움 앞에서 두려워하며 물러섰다.

Literary

"두려워하는 빛이 역력하다"

— For the look of fear to be clearly visible on one's face.

그의 눈에는 두려워하는 빛이 역력했다.

Written

"죽기를 두려워하지 않다"

— To not fear dying. Often used for extreme bravery or desperation.

그들은 죽기를 두려워하지 않고 싸웠다.

Formal/Historical

"두려워할 대상이 없다"

— To have no one or nothing to fear. Means being in a position of absolute power.

그는 이제 이 세상에 두려워할 대상이 없었다.

Dramatic

"두려워하며 눈치를 보다"

— To fear and watch someone's reaction. Describes being submissive or anxious.

아이들은 아버지를 두려워하며 눈치를 보았다.

Common

Easily Confused

두려워하다 vs 겁내다

Both mean to be afraid.

'겁내다' implies timidity or cowardice, while '두려워하다' is a more neutral or serious psychological fear.

그는 도전을 겁내고 있다. (He is being timid about the challenge.)

두려워하다 vs 우려하다

Both involve fearing a negative outcome.

'우려하다' is highly formal and intellectual (concern), while '두려워하다' is more emotional (fear).

정부는 인플레이션을 우려하고 있다.

두려워하다 vs 염려하다

Both involve anxiety about the future.

'염려하다' is closer to 'worry' or 'be concerned for someone', often with a caring nuance.

어머니는 내 건강을 염려하신다.

두려워하다 vs 경외하다

Both involve a sense of fear toward a powerful entity.

'경외하다' includes deep respect or awe, whereas '두려워하다' is just the fear aspect.

자연의 위대함을 경외하다.

두려워하다 vs 무섭다

Both describe the feeling of fear.

'무섭다' is an adjective (descriptive verb) for things that are scary, while '두려워하다' is the action of fearing.

영화가 무서워요 vs 실패를 두려워해요.

Sentence Patterns

N을/를 두려워해요.

어둠을 두려워해요.

V-는 것을 두려워해요.

실패하는 것을 두려워해요.

V-ㄹ까 봐 두려워해요.

비밀이 밝혀질까 봐 두려워해요.

N을/를 두려워하지 마세요.

변화를 두려워하지 마세요.

N을/를 두려워하는 N

미래를 두려워하는 청년들

N을/를 두려워한 나머지 V

비난을 두려워한 나머지 거짓말을 했다.

N을/를 두려워할 줄 알다

그는 법을 두려워할 줄 안다.

N이라는 N을/를 두려워하다

죽음이라는 절대적 타자를 두려워하다.

Word Family

Nouns

두려움 (du-ryeo-um) - Fear (the noun form)

공포 (gong-po) - Terror/Horror

겁 (geop) - Fear/Timidity

Verbs

두렵다 (du-ryeop-da) - To be fearful (adjective form)

겁나다 (geop-na-da) - To be scared

무서워하다 (mu-seo-wo-ha-da) - To fear (usually physical)

Adjectives

두려운 (du-ryeo-un) - Fearful (modifying form)

두려울 (du-ryeo-ul) - That will be fearful

경외 (gyeong-oe) - Awe/Reverence

우려 (u-ryeo) - Concern

염려 (yeom-ryeo) - Worry

불안 (bul-an) - Anxiety

걱정 (geok-jeong) - Worry

How to Use It

frequency

High in written and formal Korean; Medium-High in daily spoken Korean for abstract topics.

Common Mistakes

미래가 두려워해요. → 미래를 두려워해요.
두려워하다 is a transitive verb and requires the object particle 을/를.
그는 실패가 두려워요. → 그는 실패를 두려워해요.
When describing a third person's feelings, you must use the -어/아 하다 form (두려워하다) rather than the adjective (두렵다).
저는 거미를 두려워해요. → 저는 거미를 무서워해요.
While not grammatically wrong, 두려워하다 sounds too formal/dramatic for a common insect.
두렵어하지 마세요. → 두려워하지 마세요.
The 'ㅂ' in 두렵다 changes to '우' when followed by a vowel. This is an irregular conjugation.
죽음을 우려하다. → 죽음을 두려워하다.
우려하다 is for 'concerns' (like economic issues). Death is a deep emotion, so 두려워하다 is more appropriate.

Tips

Particle Check

Always double-check that you used 을/를 with 두려워하다. Using 이/가 is a dead giveaway of a beginner mistake.

Abstract vs. Physical

Save 두려워하다 for the 'big' stuff: life, death, failure, and the future. Use 무서워하다 for the 'scary' stuff: bugs, heights, and ghosts.

Nominalization

To fear 'doing' something, use V-는 것을 두려워하다. This is essential for expressing complex thoughts.

Showing Empathy

When describing someone else's fear, 두려워하다 is the correct grammatical choice to show you are observing their state.

Synonym Power

Try using 우려하다 in very formal contexts to sound like a native professional.

Soft 'H'

The 'h' in 'ha-da' is often very soft. In fast speech, it might sound like 'du-ryeo-wo-a-da'.

Face Culture

Understand that 'fearing the gaze of others' (남의 시선을 두려워하다) is a major psychological theme in Korea.

Song Lyrics

Look for this word in K-Pop ballads; it's a favorite for expressing deep emotional pain or anxiety.

Negative Encouragement

'두려워하지 마세요' is one of the most powerful things you can say to a friend who is struggling.

Idiomatic Expressions

Learn proverbs like '자라 보고 놀란 가슴...' to truly master the cultural context of fear.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of 'Dread' for 'Du-ryeo'. When you 'Do' (두) the feeling of 'Dread' (두려워), you are fearing something seriously.

Visual Association

Imagine someone standing before a giant, foggy door representing the 'Future' (미래). They are not screaming, but their face is full of deep concern as they '두려워한다' what is behind it.

Word Web

미래 (Future) 실패 (Failure) 죽음 (Death) 변화 (Change) 두려움 (Fear) 용기 (Courage) 걱정 (Worry) 무서움 (Scary)

Challenge

Write down three things you '두려워해요' that are not physical objects. Then, write one sentence saying why you will not '두려워하지 않아요' anymore.

Word Origin

Derived from the Middle Korean adjective '두렵다' (du-ryeop-da). The root '두리-' or '두려-' has historical links to the concept of being startled or unsettled. The suffix '-어/아 하다' is a productive Korean grammatical tool that transforms descriptive verbs (adjectives) into action verbs to express a person's outward manifestation of an internal emotion.

Original meaning: To be in a state of unease or dread.

Koreanic

Cultural Context

When asking someone about their fears using '두려워하다', be aware that it can be a very personal and deep question. Use it in contexts where emotional depth is appropriate.

In English, we often use 'to be afraid of' for both spiders and failure. In Korean, using '두려워하다' specifically for the latter makes you sound more articulate and emotionally precise.

The Bible (Korean translation): '하나님을 두려워하라' (Fear God). BTS Lyrics: Often use this word to discuss the fear of the future or losing their identity. Roosevelt Quote (Translated): '우리가 두려워해야 할 유일한 것은 두려움 그 자체입니다' (The only thing we have to fear is fear itself).

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Academic/Education

시험을 두려워하다
틀리는 것을 두려워하다
평가를 두려워하다
낙제를 두려워하다

Business/Career

실패를 두려워하다
해고를 두려워하다
경쟁을 두려워하다
변화를 두려워하다

Relationships

거절을 두려워하다
이별을 두려워하다
오해를 두려워하다
고백을 두려워하다

Society/News

미래를 두려워하다
전쟁을 두려워하다
범죄를 두려워하다
가난을 두려워하다

Philosophy/Religion

죽음을 두려워하다
신을 두려워하다
심판을 두려워하다
진실을 두려워하다

Conversation Starters

"당신은 미래에 대해 무엇을 가장 두려워하나요?"

"실패를 두려워해서 포기한 적이 있나요?"

"사람들이 왜 변화를 두려워한다고 생각하세요?"

"어렸을 때 무엇을 가장 두려워했나요?"

"두려워하는 마음을 극복하는 당신만의 방법이 있나요?"

Journal Prompts

내가 요즘 가장 두려워하는 것 세 가지와 그 이유에 대해 써보세요.

실패를 두려워하지 않고 도전했던 경험에 대해 상세히 기록해 보세요.

'두려움'이 내 삶에 긍정적인 영향을 미친 적이 있는지 생각해 보세요.

만약 세상에 두려워할 것이 아무것도 없다면, 무엇을 가장 먼저 하고 싶나요?

타인의 시선을 두려워하는 마음에서 벗어나기 위해 어떤 노력이 필요할까요?

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

Yes, in modern Korean, it is perfectly natural to say '저는 실패를 두려워해요'. Historically, '-어/아 하다' was for third persons, but that rule has relaxed for many emotional verbs.

'미래가 두렵다' means 'The future is fearful (to me)'. '미래를 두려워하다' means 'I fear the future'. The meaning is essentially the same, but the grammar (particles) and focus (state vs. action) differ.

Usually, no. '무서워하다' is much better for movies, ghosts, or spiders. '두려워하다' is too heavy and abstract for a jump-scare.

The most common way is '두려워하지 마세요' (formal) or '두려워하지 마' (informal).

Yes, it is very common in news, literature, and serious conversations about life and feelings.

Yes, '그는 선생님을 두려워해요' means he fears the teacher (perhaps due to strictness or authority).

The noun form is '두려움' (fear).

It is always '두려워하다' because of the 'ㅂ' irregular rule where 'ㅂ' becomes '우'.

Yes, it is very appropriate for discussing risks or market fears, though '우려하다' might be even more professional.

There isn't a direct slang verb, but '쫄다' (to be chicken/scared) is a common slang word for being afraid.