At the A1 level, '다스리다' is a bit advanced, but you might see it in very simple stories or as part of a fixed phrase like '마음을 다스리다' (calm your mind). Think of it as a special word for 'control' or 'make peaceful.' While beginners usually learn '조용히 하세요' (be quiet) or '괜찮아요' (it's okay), '다스리다' is used when someone is trying to stop being angry or sad. For example, if a character in a cartoon takes a deep breath to stop crying, they are '다스리다'-ing their feelings. You don't need to use it in every sentence, but recognizing it will help you understand stories about kings or people learning to be calm. Just remember: it's about making things organized and quiet.
At the A2 level, you can start to understand '다스리다' in the context of health and simple self-care. You might hear it in a pharmacy or a health blog. For instance, '감기를 다스리다' means to take care of a cold so it doesn't get worse. It’s slightly different from '치료하다' (to cure) because it sounds like you are managing the symptoms gently. You can also use it when talking about simple emotions. Instead of just saying 'I am not angry,' you can say 'I am managing my anger' (화를 다스려요). This makes your Korean sound much more mature and thoughtful. It’s a great word to use when you want to show that you are taking responsibility for your health or your mood.
At the B1 level, you should be able to use '다스리다' in its most common contexts: governance, emotion, and health. This is the level where you move beyond simple verbs and start using more nuanced ones. When you talk about history, you can say 'The king governed the country well' (왕이 나라를 잘 다스렸어요). When talking about mental health—a popular topic in Korea—you can discuss 'how to manage stress' (스트레스를 다스리는 법). You should also notice how the word is used in news headlines or magazines. It implies a level of skill and wisdom. If you manage a situation with '다스리다,' it means you didn't just force it to happen; you guided it toward a better state. This word is key for intermediate learners who want to express complex human experiences.
At the B2 level, you are expected to understand the philosophical and metaphorical nuances of '다스리다.' You will encounter it in literature, editorial pieces, and formal speeches. Here, it often refers to the 'management of the self' as a prerequisite for leadership. You might see discussions on 'self-governance' (자신을 다스리는 힘). You should also be able to distinguish it from more technical terms like '통제하다' (to control/restrict) or '관리하다' (to manage/administer). '다스리다' suggests a moral or natural order. For example, '법으로 다스리다' (to rule by law) implies that the law is the tool used to maintain social harmony. At this level, you can use the word to add a sense of gravity and sophistication to your essays and presentations on social or psychological topics.
At the C1 level, you will analyze '다스리다' in classical texts and high-level legal or political discourse. It appears in discussions about '통치 철학' (governance philosophy) and how historical figures balanced power and compassion. You'll recognize its use in legal contexts where '죄를 엄히 다스리다' means to punish a crime strictly to uphold the law. The word carries a certain 'Koreanness'—a reflection of Confucian values where the internal state of the ruler affects the state of the world. You should be able to use it in nuanced ways, such as describing the 'management' of a complex crisis where multiple factors must be balanced. Your understanding should include the passive and causative forms, as well as its relationship to various Hanja-based synonyms in academic writing.
At the C2 level, your mastery of '다스리다' is near-native. You understand its poetic potential in modern literature and its archaic weight in historical research. You can appreciate how a writer might use '다스리다' to describe the way the wind 'manages' the waves, or how a silence 'manages' a room. You are aware of the subtle shifts in meaning across centuries of Korean history—from the absolute rule of a monarch to the modern emphasis on psychological self-regulation. You can participate in deep debates about 'how to govern' (치국 - 治國) and use the word '다스리다' to evoke specific cultural and historical resonances. At this stage, the word is not just a vocabulary item; it is a window into the Korean worldview of order, balance, and the interconnectedness of the internal and external worlds.

다스리다 in 30 Seconds

  • To govern or rule a nation or a group of people with authority and care.
  • To manage and calm one's internal state, such as emotions, mind, or desires.
  • To control and regulate physical symptoms or chronic health conditions for better well-being.
  • To adjudicate or punish a crime or wrongdoing to uphold social justice and order.

The Korean verb 다스리다 is a multifaceted term that transcends simple translation. At its core, it refers to the act of bringing order to a state of potential chaos, whether that chaos is a nation, a physical ailment, or a turbulent emotion. Unlike modern English words like 'control' or 'manage,' which can sometimes feel mechanical or restrictive, 다스리다 carries a historical and philosophical weight, suggesting a sense of stewardship and the restoration of natural harmony.

Political and Social Governance
Historically, this word was used to describe how a monarch or a leader would govern a country. It implies not just the enforcement of laws, but the nurturing of the citizenry (백성). When a leader 다스린다 a nation, they are responsible for its peace and prosperity. This usage is common in historical dramas (Sageuk) and formal political discourse.
Emotional and Mental Self-Control
In modern daily life, you will most frequently encounter this word in the context of the mind. To 마음을 다스리다 (manage one's heart/mind) means to calm oneself down, meditate, or regain emotional equilibrium after a stressful event. It suggests an active, internal effort to master one's impulses and find inner peace.
Medical Management
When dealing with chronic illnesses or recurring symptoms, Koreans use 다스리다 to describe the process of keeping the condition under control. It is less about a 'sudden cure' (치료) and more about 'ongoing management' to ensure the symptoms do not disrupt life. For example, one might 아토피를 다스리다 (manage atopic dermatitis) through diet and lifestyle.

명상을 통해 복잡한 마음을 다스리는 것이 건강에 좋습니다. (It is good for your health to manage your complicated mind through meditation.)

세종대왕은 백성을 어질게 다스렸습니다. (King Sejong governed the people with benevolence.)

이 약은 통증을 다스리는 데 효과가 있습니다. (This medicine is effective in controlling pain.)

화를 참지 못하고 다스리지 못하면 후회하게 됩니다. (If you cannot hold back and manage your anger, you will regret it.)

법으로 나라를 다스리는 것은 공정함의 기초입니다. (Governing a country by law is the foundation of fairness.)

Whether you are talking about a historical king, a modern-day therapist, or a doctor managing a chronic condition, 다스리다 remains the go-to word for sophisticated control. It implies wisdom, effort, and a long-term perspective rather than a quick fix or brute force.

Using 다스리다 correctly requires understanding its object-verb relationships. Since it is a transitive verb, it almost always takes the object marker ~을/를. The meaning shifts slightly depending on what you are 'managing.' Below are the primary patterns you will encounter.

Pattern 1: [Entity/Region] + 을/를 다스리다
This is the 'governance' pattern. It is used for countries, provinces, or people groups. In modern contexts, it can also be used metaphorically for managing a large organization or a household.
Example: 왕은 영토를 넓히고 나라를 평화롭게 다스렸다. (The king expanded the territory and governed the country peacefully.)
Pattern 2: [Emotion/Condition] + 을/를 다스리다
This is the 'self-regulation' pattern. Common objects include 마음 (mind), (anger), 슬픔 (sadness), or 스트레스 (stress). It implies an active effort to suppress or channel these feelings properly.
Example: 그는 심호흡을 하며 끓어오르는 화를 다스렸다. (He took a deep breath and managed his rising anger.)
Pattern 3: [Illness/Symptom] + 을/를 다스리다
This is the 'medical management' pattern. It is frequently used in traditional medicine (Hanyak) or when talking about lifestyle-related conditions like diabetes or insomnia.
Example: 따뜻한 차는 감기 기운을 다스리는 데 도움이 된다. (Warm tea helps in managing the symptoms of a cold.)

자신의 감정을 잘 다스리는 사람이 진정한 리더입니다. (A person who manages their emotions well is a true leader.)

이 약재는 몸의 열을 다스려 줍니다. (This medicinal herb manages/lowers the heat in the body.)

In terms of conjugation, 다스리다 is a regular verb. It follows the standard pattern for verbs ending in '-ㅣ다'. For example: 다스려요 (polite present), 다스렸어요 (polite past), 다스릴 거예요 (future). Because it is a B1-level word, using it in writing or formal speech immediately elevates your Korean proficiency, signaling that you understand the nuance of internal and external management.

While 다스리다 might seem formal, it is pervasive in specific sectors of Korean life. Understanding these contexts will help you recognize the word in the wild.

Historical Dramas (Sageuk)
If you watch dramas like 'Under the Queen's Umbrella' or 'The King's Affection,' you will hear this word constantly. Kings, queens, and ministers debate how to 나라를 다스리다. A common trope is the king being told to 심기(mind)를 다스리다 when he is angry or stressed by court politics.
Health and Wellness Content
On Korean lifestyle TV shows (like 'Good Morning' or health-related documentaries), doctors often talk about 만성 질환을 다스리는 법 (how to manage chronic diseases). It's the preferred term for managing things like high blood pressure, diabetes, or even seasonal allergies, emphasizing a holistic approach over a simple pill.
Self-Help and Meditation
In the booming Korean self-improvement market, 다스리다 is everywhere. Book titles like 'How to Manage Your Mind in a Busy World' or YouTube meditation guides titled 'Managing Anger' use this word to suggest a sophisticated, mature way of handling life's difficulties.

[News Headline] 폭염 속 건강 다스리는 5가지 생활 습관. (5 lifestyle habits to manage health during a heatwave.)

[Sageuk Quote] 전하, 부디 노여움을 다스리시옵소서. (Your Majesty, please manage/calm your anger.)

You might also hear it in legal contexts. When a judge 죄를 다스리다, it means they are adjudicating a crime or meting out punishment. This is a very formal and 'heavy' use of the word, implying that justice is being administered to restore the social order.

Because 다스리다 translates to several English words, learners often use it in the wrong context. Here are the most frequent errors to watch out for.

Mistake 1: Using it for 'managing' a business or project
While 다스리다 means manage, it's not for business administration. If you say you 'manage a project,' use 관리하다 (to manage/administer) or 운영하다 (to operate).
Incorrect: 프로젝트를 다스려요. (X)
Correct: 프로젝트를 관리해요. (O)
Mistake 2: Confusing it with 'curing' (치료하다)
In medical contexts, 다스리다 is about management, not a complete cure. If you break your arm, you don't 다스리다 it; you 치료하다 (treat/cure) it. Use 다스리다 for chronic, ongoing, or internal conditions like digestion or stress.
Incorrect: 부러진 다리를 다스려요. (X)
Correct: 부러진 다리를 치료해요. (O)
Mistake 3: Overusing it in casual conversation
If you just want to say 'calm down' to a friend, 마음을 다스려 sounds a bit too poetic or like you're a wise monk. In casual settings, 진정해 (calm down) or 참아 (hold it in) is much more natural.

[Incorrect Case] 저는 매일 제 은행 계좌를 다스립니다. (X) -> This sounds like you are ruling your bank account like a king.

[Correct Case] 저는 매일 제 예산을 관리합니다. (O) -> I manage my budget every day.

Remember: 다스리다 implies a soul, a life, or a complex system. If the thing you are managing is inanimate and simple, you likely need a different word.

To truly master 다스리다, you must see how it sits alongside its cousins. Korean has many words for 'control' and 'manage,' each with a distinct flavor.

통치하다 (統治하다) vs. 다스리다
통치하다 is the formal, Hanja-based academic term for 'to rule' or 'to govern.' It is used in political science and history books. 다스리다 is the native Korean equivalent and feels more holistic and literary. You 다스리다 a heart, but you don't usually 통치하다 a heart.
관리하다 (管理하다) vs. 다스리다
관리하다 is the most common word for 'manage.' It is used for skin care, bank accounts, employees, and buildings. It is practical and administrative. 다스리다 is deeper, often involving internal struggle or high-level governance.
진정시키다 vs. 다스리다
진정시키다 means 'to calm someone down' or 'to soothe.' It is often an external action (soothing a crying baby). 다스리다 is more of an internal, disciplined management of one's own state.
조절하다 (調節하다) vs. 다스리다
조절하다 means 'to adjust' or 'to regulate' (like volume, temperature, or speed). 다스리다 is more comprehensive. You 조절하다 the volume, but you 다스리다 your anger.

Comparison:
1. 나라를 통치하다 (Formal/Political)
2. 나라를 다스리다 (Literary/Holistic)
3. 매장을 관리하다 (Business/Daily)

Other minor alternatives include 제어하다 (control - often used for technology or strong impulses) and 억제하다 (suppress - often used for biological functions or strong desires). Each of these adds a layer of precision to your Korean expression.

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

While it is a pure Korean word, it is almost always used to translate the Chinese character 治 (zhì), which means to rule or to heal. This is why it covers both political and medical contexts.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /ta.sɯ.ɾi.da/
US /da.sɯ.ri.da/
Stress is even across all syllables, as is typical in Korean.
Rhymes With
기다리다 (to wait) 서두르다 (to hurry) 어우르다 (to harmonize) 버무리다 (to mix) 조리다 (to boil down) 누리다 (to enjoy) 그리다 (to draw) 내리다 (to descend)
Common Errors
  • Pronouncing '다' as a hard English 'D'.
  • Rounding the lips for the 'ㅡ' vowel.
  • Making the 'ㄹ' sound like an English 'L' or 'R'.
  • Skipping the middle '스' syllable in fast speech.
  • Pronouncing '리' like 'lee' with too much tension.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 3/5

Common in written Korean, but requires understanding context to choose the right English equivalent.

Writing 4/5

Hard to use correctly without confusing it with '관리하다' or '조절하다'.

Speaking 3/5

Used in specific contexts like health or meditation; sounds very educated when used correctly.

Listening 3/5

Easy to hear in dramas or news, but needs attention to distinguish from similar sounding verbs.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

마음 (heart/mind) 나라 (country) 화 (anger) 관리하다 (to manage) 왕 (king)

Learn Next

통치하다 (to govern) 조절하다 (to adjust) 수행하다 (to practice/asceticism) 평화 (peace) 질서 (order)

Advanced

섭리 (providence) 치세 (reign) 심신 (mind and body) 절제 (restraint) 교화 (enlightenment/reforming)

Grammar to Know

Transitive Verbs and 을/를

나라를 다스리다.

Adverbial form -게

엄하게 다스리다.

Gerund -는 것

마음을 다스리는 것이 중요해요.

Honorific -시-

선생님께서 마음을 다스리십니다.

Passive -어지다

사회가 법에 의해 다스려진다.

Examples by Level

1

마음을 다스려요.

Manage your mind/heart.

Present tense polite form.

2

화를 다스리세요.

Please manage your anger.

Imperative polite form (~으세요).

3

그는 슬픔을 다스렸다.

He managed his sadness.

Past tense plain form.

4

아이의 버릇을 다스려요.

Manage the child's (bad) habit.

Object marker ~의 and ~을.

5

몸을 잘 다스려야 해요.

You must manage your body well.

Obligation form ~어/아야 하다.

6

왕은 나라를 다스려요.

The king governs the country.

Simple subject-object-verb structure.

7

이 차는 열을 다스려요.

This tea manages (lowers) the heat.

Topic marker ~는.

8

우리는 화를 다스릴 수 있어요.

We can manage our anger.

Ability form ~을 수 있다.

1

스트레스를 다스리는 것이 중요해요.

Managing stress is important.

Gerund form ~는 것.

2

감기 기운을 다스리려고 약을 먹었어요.

I took medicine to manage the signs of a cold.

Intention form ~으려고.

3

그녀는 차분하게 마음을 다스렸습니다.

She managed her mind calmly.

Adverbial form ~하게.

4

부모님은 엄하게 자녀를 다스렸어요.

The parents managed (disciplined) their children strictly.

Adverb '엄하게' meaning strictly.

5

이 약은 통증을 잘 다스려 줍니다.

This medicine manages the pain well for you.

Benefactive form ~어/아 주다.

6

옛날 왕들은 백성을 어떻게 다스렸을까요?

How did ancient kings govern the people?

Interrogative past conjecture ~었을까요.

7

피부 트러블을 다스리는 법을 알아요?

Do you know how to manage skin troubles?

Method form ~는 법.

8

운동은 마음을 다스리는 데 좋아요.

Exercise is good for managing the mind.

Bound noun '데' meaning 'in the act of'.

1

명상은 복잡한 생각을 다스리는 데 큰 도움이 됩니다.

Meditation is a great help in managing complicated thoughts.

Formal polite style ~습니다.

2

정부는 경제 위기를 다스리기 위해 노력하고 있습니다.

The government is making efforts to manage the economic crisis.

Purpose form ~기 위해.

3

자신의 욕심을 다스리지 못하면 불행해질 수 있습니다.

If you cannot manage your greed, you can become unhappy.

Conditional form ~으면.

4

전통 한의학에서는 몸의 기운을 다스리는 것을 강조합니다.

Traditional Korean medicine emphasizes managing the body's energy.

Object marker with gerund ~는 것을.

5

화를 다스리는 기술은 사회 생활에 꼭 필요합니다.

The skill of managing anger is essential for social life.

Noun modification ~는 기술.

6

그는 법으로 엄히 다스려야 할 범죄를 저질렀습니다.

He committed a crime that must be strictly managed by law.

Future modifier ~을.

7

성공한 사람들은 시간을 다스리는 능력이 뛰어납니다.

Successful people have an outstanding ability to manage time.

Descriptive verb '뛰어나다'.

8

불안감을 다스리기 위해 심호흡을 해 보세요.

Try taking deep breaths to manage your anxiety.

Try form ~어/아 보다.

1

진정한 통치자는 무력이 아닌 덕으로 나라를 다스려야 한다.

A true ruler should govern the country with virtue, not with military force.

Plain style ending ~ㄴ다/다.

2

그는 밀려오는 공포를 다스리며 침착하게 대처했다.

He managed the surging fear and responded calmly.

Simultaneous action form ~으며.

3

만성 질환은 완치보다 꾸준히 다스리는 것이 핵심입니다.

The key to chronic illness is managing it consistently rather than a full cure.

Comparison structure A보다 B.

4

사소한 오해로 인한 갈등을 다스리는 지혜가 필요하다.

Wisdom is needed to manage conflicts caused by minor misunderstandings.

Phrase '인한' (caused by).

5

그는 자신의 내면을 다스리기 위해 산사로 떠났다.

He went to a mountain temple to manage his inner self.

Destination marker ~로.

6

엄격한 규율로 조직을 다스리는 방식은 이제 통하지 않는다.

The method of managing an organization with strict discipline no longer works.

Topic marker with noun phrase.

7

그 배우는 무대 공포증을 다스리는 데 오랜 시간이 걸렸다.

It took that actor a long time to manage their stage fright.

Time duration form ~이/가 걸리다.

8

자연의 섭리를 다스리려 하는 인간의 오만함이 화를 불렀다.

The arrogance of humans trying to manage the providence of nature brought disaster.

Intentional form ~으려 하다.

1

조선 시대의 왕들은 유교적 이념에 입각하여 나라를 다스렸다.

Kings of the Joseon Dynasty governed the country based on Confucian ideologies.

Phrase '입각하여' (based on).

2

법치주의 사회에서는 만인이 법에 의해 공평하게 다스려져야 한다.

In a society under the rule of law, everyone must be governed fairly by the law.

Passive form ~어/아지다.

3

감정의 소용돌이를 다스리는 것은 자아 성찰의 첫걸음이다.

Managing the whirlpool of emotions is the first step of self-reflection.

Metaphorical usage of '소용돌이'.

4

그 학자는 혼란스러운 정국을 다스릴 묘책을 제시했다.

The scholar proposed an ingenious plan to manage the chaotic political situation.

Noun '묘책' (ingenious plan).

5

아토피와 같은 면역 질환은 체질을 다스리는 것부터 시작해야 한다.

Immune diseases like atopy must start from managing one's constitution.

Focus marker ~부터.

6

그는 평생을 바쳐 자신의 학문을 다스리고 연마했다.

He dedicated his life to managing and refining his scholarship.

Verb '연마하다' (refine/polish).

7

군주는 백성의 원성을 다스리기 위해 선정을 베풀어야 한다.

A monarch must practice benevolent politics to manage the people's resentment.

Noun '원성' (resentment/complaints).

8

고혈압은 식단과 운동으로 충분히 다스릴 수 있는 질병이다.

High blood pressure is a disease that can be sufficiently managed with diet and exercise.

Adverb '충분히' (sufficiently).

1

천하를 다스리는 자는 먼저 자신의 그림자부터 다스려야 할 것이다.

One who rules the world must first manage their own shadow.

Conjecture form ~을 것이다.

2

시인은 언어의 야생성을 다스려 한 편의 정제된 시를 빚어냈다.

The poet managed the wildness of language to craft a piece of refined poetry.

Verb '빚어내다' (to craft/create).

3

난치병을 다스리는 과정은 인간의 인내심을 시험하는 고행과 같다.

The process of managing an incurable disease is like an ascetic practice that tests human patience.

Simile 'A와 같다'.

4

역사는 승자가 패자를 어떻게 다스렸는지를 기록한 비정한 보고서다.

History is a heartless report recording how the winners governed the losers.

Indirect question form ~었는지.

5

그는 권력의 속성을 다스리지 못해 결국 몰락의 길을 걸었다.

He failed to manage the nature of power and eventually walked the path of downfall.

Noun '속성' (attribute/nature).

6

침묵으로 좌중을 다스리는 그의 카리스마는 압도적이었다.

His charisma in managing the audience with silence was overwhelming.

Instrumental marker ~으로.

7

자연은 스스로를 다스리는 치유의 힘을 내포하고 있다.

Nature contains within it the power of healing to manage itself.

Progressive state ~고 있다.

8

정의라는 이름으로 폭력을 다스리는 행위의 정당성을 논하다.

To discuss the legitimacy of the act of managing violence in the name of justice.

Nominalized form ~함/기.

Common Collocations

마음을 다스리다
나라를 다스리다
화를 다스리다
증상을 다스리다
백성을 다스리다
몸을 다스리다
법으로 다스리다
슬픔을 다스리다
혼란을 다스리다
욕심을 다스리다

Common Phrases

마음을 다스리는 글

— Writings meant to calm the mind. Often found in calendars or social media.

매일 아침 마음을 다스리는 글을 읽어요.

엄히 다스리다

— To govern or punish very strictly. Used in legal or historical contexts.

부패한 관리를 엄히 다스렸다.

어질게 다스리다

— To govern benevolently or with kindness. Used for good leaders.

그는 백성을 어질게 다스린 왕으로 기억된다.

몸을 다스리는 음식

— Food that helps manage one's health or bodily balance.

여름철 몸을 다스리는 음식에는 삼계탕이 있다.

기운을 다스리다

— To manage one's energy or 'Gi'. Common in traditional medicine.

침을 맞아서 몸의 기운을 다스렸다.

분노를 다스리다

— To manage rage. A stronger version of '화를 다스리다'.

그는 분노를 다스리지 못해 사고를 쳤다.

천하를 다스리다

— To rule the world or the whole nation. Epic/Historical tone.

천하를 다스리는 영웅이 나타났다.

병을 다스리다

— To manage a disease. Focuses on control rather than a quick cure.

당뇨병은 평생 다스려야 하는 병이다.

욕망을 다스리다

— To manage desires or lust. Often used in religious contexts.

스님은 세속의 욕망을 다스리기 위해 수행했다.

가정을 다스리다

— To manage a household or family. Sounds a bit traditional/patriarchal.

먼저 가정을 잘 다스려야 밖에서도 성공한다.

Often Confused With

다스리다 vs 관리하다

Management of objects or administration. 다스리다 is deeper and more holistic.

다스리다 vs 조절하다

Adjustment of levels or settings. 다스리다 is for complex systems or minds.

다스리다 vs 치료하다

Curing a specific ailment. 다스리다 is managing symptoms over time.

Idioms & Expressions

"수신제가치국평천하"

— First manage yourself, then your family, then the state, then the world. (Hanja based)

다스림의 기본은 수신제가치국평천하라고 했다.

Literary
"마음을 다스리는 자가 성을 빼앗는 자보다 낫다"

— He who manages his heart is better than he who takes a city. (Biblical origin)

성경에는 마음을 다스리는 자가 성을 빼앗는 자보다 낫다고 쓰여 있다.

Religious/Proverbial
"법으로 다스리다"

— To rule by the law, implying no one is above it.

민주주의는 법으로 다스리는 사회다.

Formal
"덕으로 다스리다"

— To rule by virtue. The ideal of a Confucian ruler.

훌륭한 지도자는 힘이 아닌 덕으로 다스린다.

Formal/Historical
"피를 다스리다"

— In traditional medicine, to manage blood circulation or quality.

이 약초는 피를 다스리는 데 탁월하다.

Medical (Traditional)
"죄를 다스리다"

— To judge and punish a crime.

하늘이 너의 죄를 다스릴 것이다.

Formal/Poetic
"불을 다스리다"

— To control fire (historically) or to manage internal 'heat' in the body.

대장장이는 불을 잘 다스려야 한다.

Technical/Traditional
"물길을 다스리다"

— To manage waterways or irrigation (flood control).

치수 사업은 물길을 다스리는 일이다.

Technical/Historical
"자신을 다스리다"

— To manage oneself; self-discipline.

자신을 다스리는 것이 세상에서 가장 어렵다.

Neutral
"뿌리를 다스리다"

— To manage the root cause of a problem.

문제의 뿌리를 다스려야 재발하지 않는다.

Metaphorical

Easily Confused

다스리다 vs 통치하다

Both mean 'to rule'.

통치하다 is academic and formal; 다스리다 is native and includes emotional/medical contexts.

그는 나라를 통치했다 (Academic) vs 그는 백성을 다스렸다 (Literary).

다스리다 vs 진정시키다

Both involve calming down.

진정시키다 is usually external (calming others); 다스리다 is usually internal (managing oneself).

친구를 진정시켰다 vs 내 마음을 다스렸다.

다스리다 vs 제어하다

Both mean 'to control'.

제어하다 is for machines or strong physical forces; 다스리다 is for governance or harmony.

로봇을 제어하다 vs 욕심을 다스리다.

다스리다 vs 억제하다

Both involve holding back.

억제하다 is 'suppression' (stopping a force); 다스리다 is 'management' (guiding a force).

웃음을 억제하다 vs 화를 다스리다.

다스리다 vs 처리하다

Both involve 'handling' something.

처리하다 is 'processing' a task or garbage; 다스리다 is 'governing' a living system.

업무를 처리하다 vs 나라를 다스리다.

Sentence Patterns

A1

[Object] + 을/를 다스려요.

마음을 다스려요.

A2

[Object] + 을/를 다스리는 법.

화를 다스리는 법.

B1

[Object] + 을/를 다스리기 위해 [Action].

스트레스를 다스리기 위해 운동해요.

B2

[Adverb] + [Object] + 을/를 다스리다.

현명하게 나라를 다스리다.

C1

[Object] + 을/를 다스리는 데 [Noun] + 이/가 필요하다.

갈등을 다스리는 데 지혜가 필요하다.

C2

[Subject] + 에 의해 [Object] + 이/가 다스려지다.

법에 의해 나라가 다스려지다.

B1

[Object] + 을/를 다스리기가 쉽지 않다.

자신의 욕심을 다스리기가 쉽지 않다.

B2

[Object] + 을/를 다스리는 능력을 기르다.

감정을 다스리는 능력을 기르다.

Word Family

Nouns

다스림 (governance/management)
다스림직함 (manageability - rare)

Verbs

다스려지다 (to be managed/governed - passive)
다스리게 하다 (to make someone manage - causative)

Related

통치 (governance)
치료 (treatment)
조절 (adjustment)
관리 (management)
수신 (self-cultivation)

How to Use It

frequency

Common in literature, health media, and historical contexts. Rare in casual slang but common in 'mental health' discussions.

Common Mistakes
  • 프로젝트를 다스리다 프로젝트를 관리하다

    Use '관리하다' for modern administrative tasks or projects.

  • 감기를 다스려서 다 나았어요 감기를 치료해서 다 나았어요

    '다스리다' is for management, '치료하다' is for a complete cure.

  • 운전을 다스리다 운전하다 / 차를 제어하다

    You don't 'govern' a car; you drive it or control its mechanics.

  • 마음을 다스려지다 마음이 다스려지다

    Passive forms take '이/가' as the subject marker, not '을/를'.

  • 친구를 다스리다 친구를 진정시키다

    You 'manage' your own mind, but you 'calm down' a friend.

Tips

Use for Self-Improvement

In journals, use '다스리다' when you talk about trying to be a better person by managing your bad habits or emotions.

Justice and Punishment

In news reports, you might hear '법으로 다스리다'. This means the legal system is taking action to punish a crime.

Holistic Health

If you have a chronic condition, tell your Korean doctor '증상을 잘 다스리고 싶어요' to show you want to manage it well.

Sageuk Vocabulary

Pay attention to this word in historical dramas. It's the most common verb for a king's duties.

Active Voice

Prefer the active voice. Instead of saying 'The mind is managed,' say 'I manage my mind' (마음을 다스려요).

Conflict Resolution

Use it when discussing how to 'manage' a difficult social situation or a conflict between friends.

Combine with Adverbs

It pairs well with adverbs like '엄하게' (strictly), '현명하게' (wisely), and '차분하게' (calmly).

Elevate Your Style

Replace '참다' (to endure/hold back) with '다스리다' in formal writing to sound more sophisticated.

Balance is Key

Always keep in mind that '다스리다' implies bringing things back to a state of balance.

Sound Recognition

Don't confuse it with '다스리' which is not a word, but the root is '다스리-'. The ending '다' is the dictionary form.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of a 'DA-ZZLER' (dazzler) who is so skilled they can 'DA-SEU-RI-DA' (manage) anything from a kingdom to a headache.

Visual Association

Imagine a king sitting in a lotus position (meditating) while wearing a crown. He is managing both his country and his mind at the same time.

Word Web

King Meditation Medicine Anger Order Law Mind Harmony

Challenge

Try to use '다스리다' in three different sentences today: one about your feelings, one about your health, and one about a leader.

Word Origin

Pure Korean word (Native). It has been used since Middle Korean (15th century) in the form '다스리다'.

Original meaning: To put things in order, to regulate, or to make something right.

Koreanic

Cultural Context

Avoid using it for modern corporate management (use 관리하다 instead) as it might sound overly dramatic or antiquated.

English speakers often separate 'rule,' 'manage,' and 'soothe.' In Korean, these are all linked by the idea of 'ordering' a system.

The phrase '수신제가치국평천하' from the Great Learning. Historical dramas like 'Dae Jang Geum' where managing health is a key theme. Modern meditation apps in Korea often use '다스림' as a category.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Meditation/Yoga

  • 호흡으로 마음을 다스리다
  • 내면을 다스리다
  • 평온하게 다스리다
  • 다스림의 시간

History/Politics

  • 백성을 다스리다
  • 영토를 다스리다
  • 공정하게 다스리다
  • 법으로 다스리다

Health/Medicine

  • 증상을 다스리다
  • 열을 다스리다
  • 기운을 다스리다
  • 체질을 다스리다

Education/Parenting

  • 아이를 다스리다
  • 버릇을 다스리다
  • 엄하게 다스리다
  • 사랑으로 다스리다

Legal

  • 죄를 다스리다
  • 범죄를 다스리다
  • 엄벌로 다스리다
  • 국법으로 다스리다

Conversation Starters

"스트레스를 어떻게 다스리시나요? (How do you manage your stress?)"

"마음을 다스리는 데 명상이 효과가 있을까요? (Do you think meditation is effective for managing the mind?)"

"역사 속에서 나라를 가장 잘 다스린 왕은 누구라고 생각하세요? (Who do you think was the king who governed the country best in history?)"

"화를 다스리는 나만의 특별한 방법이 있나요? (Do you have your own special way of managing anger?)"

"건강을 다스리기 위해 매일 하는 습관이 있으세요? (Do you have any daily habits to manage your health?)"

Journal Prompts

오늘 하루 내 마음을 어떻게 다스렸는지 기록해 보세요. (Record how you managed your mind today.)

내가 만약 한 나라를 다스리는 왕이라면, 어떤 법을 먼저 만들고 싶나요? (If you were a king ruling a country, what law would you want to make first?)

최근에 나를 화나게 했던 일과 그것을 다스린 과정에 대해 써 보세요. (Write about something that made you angry recently and the process of managing it.)

나의 건강을 다스리기 위해 고쳐야 할 생활 습관 세 가지는 무엇인가요? (What are three lifestyle habits you need to change to manage your health?)

'다스림'이란 나에게 어떤 의미인지 정의해 보세요. (Define what 'management/governance' means to you.)

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

Technically yes, if you are 'managing' its behavior or training it strictly (버릇을 다스리다). However, '훈련하다' (to train) is more common.

It has a historical weight, but it is not 'old-fashioned' in a bad way. It sounds sophisticated and is still very common in health and self-help contexts.

마음을 가라앉히다 means to 'settle' or 'calm' your mind momentarily. 마음을 다스리다 implies a more disciplined, long-term management of your character.

No, that would sound like you are a king ruling a shop. Use '운영하다' or '관리하다' for businesses.

Yes, it is a transitive verb, so you need to specify what you are managing (country, mind, symptoms, etc.).

Yes, very frequently. It is the standard word for 'to rule' or 'to have dominion over' in Korean translations.

No. For driving or controlling a vehicle, use '운전하다' or '조종하다'.

The most common opposite is '방치하다' (to neglect) or '어지럽히다' (to make chaotic).

The word itself is pure Korean, but it corresponds to the Hanja 治 (치). Words like '통치' (rule) and '정치' (politics) use this Hanja.

Yes, '시간을 다스리다' is a poetic and strong way to say you are the master of your schedule.

Test Yourself 185 questions

writing

Translate: 'I manage my mind through meditation.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

Translate: 'The king governed the people with love.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

Translate: 'It is important to manage your anger.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

Translate: 'How do you manage stress?'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

Translate: 'This medicine helps manage symptoms.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

Translate: 'He committed a crime that must be strictly punished.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

Translate: 'You must first manage yourself.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

Translate: 'Meditation is a way of managing the mind.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

Translate: 'The judge punished the criminal by law.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

Translate: 'I am learning how to manage my emotions.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

Translate: 'A good leader governs wisely.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

Translate: 'Chronic diseases are managed, not cured.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

Translate: 'He managed his surging sadness.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

Translate: 'We should govern the world with peace.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

Translate: 'It takes time to manage bad habits.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

Translate: 'She managed the chaos in the office.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

Translate: 'The scholar managed his knowledge.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

Translate: 'Don't let your greed manage you.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

Translate: 'Healing starts from managing the body.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

Translate: 'A calm mind manages life well.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

How do you manage your mind when you are angry? (Answer in Korean using 다스리다)

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Explain why a king needs to manage his mind. (Answer in Korean)

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

What is your way of managing stress? (Answer in Korean)

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

How can one manage physical health? (Answer in Korean)

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Describe a good leader using '다스리다'. (Answer in Korean)

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

What happens if a leader cannot manage their greed? (Answer in Korean)

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

How do you manage stage fright? (Answer in Korean)

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Why is law necessary to manage society? (Answer in Korean)

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Talk about managing a chronic illness. (Answer in Korean)

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

What is the most difficult thing to manage? (Answer in Korean)

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

How do you manage your time? (Answer in Korean)

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Describe a historical figure who governed well. (Answer in Korean)

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

How can we manage conflicts between friends? (Answer in Korean)

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

What is the role of meditation in managing the mind? (Answer in Korean)

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

How should a judge punish a serious crime? (Answer in Korean)

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Can money manage everything? (Answer in Korean)

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

How do you manage your appetite? (Answer in Korean)

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Is it better to govern with fear or love? (Answer in Korean)

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

How do you manage your emotions after a breakup? (Answer in Korean)

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

What is the importance of self-discipline (다스림)? (Answer in Korean)

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Listen to the sentence: '마음을 다스리는 것이 가장 중요합니다.' What is most important?

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Listen: '왕은 나라를 평화롭게 다스렸어요.' How did the king govern?

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Listen: '스트레스를 다스리려면 운동을 하세요.' What should you do to manage stress?

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Listen: '이 약은 열을 다스리는 데 효과가 있습니다.' What is the medicine effective for?

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Listen: '화를 다스리지 못해 큰 실수를 했어요.' Why did the person make a mistake?

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Listen: '그는 엄히 다스려야 할 범죄자입니다.' What kind of criminal is he?

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Listen: '백성을 어질게 다스린 지도자.' What kind of leader is described?

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Listen: '자신을 다스리는 자가 천하를 얻는다.' Who gets the world?

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Listen: '슬픔을 다스리는 데는 시간이 약이다.' What is the 'medicine' for managing sadness?

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Listen: '법으로 사회적 혼란을 다스려야 합니다.' How should social chaos be managed?

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Listen: '명상은 마음을 다스리는 좋은 방법입니다.' Is meditation good for the mind?

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Listen: '그는 카리스마로 청중을 다스렸다.' How did he manage the audience?

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Listen: '몸의 기운을 다스려 건강을 회복하세요.' What should you manage to recover health?

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Listen: '욕심을 다스리는 것은 쉽지 않은 일이다.' Is managing greed easy?

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Listen: '그는 평생 자신의 학문을 다스렸다.' What did he manage all his life?

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:

/ 185 correct

Perfect score!

Was this helpful?

Comments (0)

Login to Comment
No comments yet. Be the first to share your thoughts!