데려다주다
데려다주다 in 30 Seconds
- The Korean verb <mark class='bg-pink-200 dark:bg-pink-800 px-0.5 rounded'>데려다주다</mark> means to drop someone off or escort them to a destination.
- It's a common verb used when offering or asking for rides, or when walking someone somewhere.
- It implies completing the journey for the other person, often as a helpful gesture.
- It's similar to '태워주다' (give a ride) but can also mean escorting on foot.
The Meaning of 데려다주다
The Korean verb 데려다주다 (pronounced 'de-ryeo-da-ju-da') is a compound verb that essentially means 'to take someone to a place and leave them there.' It's a very common and practical verb used in everyday Korean conversation when you are offering or receiving a ride, or simply escorting someone to their destination.
Think of it as a combination of 'to bring/take' (데리다 - to bring/take someone) and 'to give' (주다 - to give, used here to indicate doing a favor for someone).
When to Use 데려다주다
This verb is used in a wide variety of situations:
- Offering a Ride
- If you are driving and see a friend who needs to get home, you might say, '내가 데려다줄게' (Naega de-ryeo-da-jul-ge) - 'I'll give you a ride home.'
- Asking for a Ride
- If you need a lift, you could ask, '집까지 데려다주실 수 있어요?' (Jip-kka-ji de-ryeo-da-ju-sil su i-sseo-yo?) - 'Can you drop me off at home?'
- Escorting Someone
- Even if you aren't driving, if you are walking with someone to their bus stop or the entrance of a building, you can say, '제가 데려다줄게요' (Je-ga de-ryeo-da-jul-ge-yo) - 'I'll walk you there (and make sure you get there safely).'.
- Receiving a Drop-off
- When someone drops you off, you would say, '저를 여기까지 데려다주셔서 감사합니다.' (Jeo-reul yeo-gi-kka-ji de-ryeo-da-ju-shi-eo-seo gam-sa-ham-ni-da.) - 'Thank you for dropping me off here.'
Grammatical Structure
The structure is generally: [Subject] + [Object (person being taken)] + [Destination (optional, implied)] + 데려다주다.
The verb conjugation will change based on politeness levels and tense, but the core meaning remains consistent.
친구를 집까지 데려다주다.
Understanding the Components
The verb is a combination of 데리다 (to bring, take, escort someone) and 주다 (to give). When combined, 데려다주다 signifies the action of taking someone somewhere and giving them the service of arrival. It's a polite and common way to express this action, especially when offering help.
Nuance of 'Favor'
The inclusion of 주다 inherently adds a nuance of doing a favor. You are 'giving' the service of bringing someone somewhere. This makes it a very common and polite expression when offering assistance to friends, family, or even colleagues.
Examples in Context
- Scenario 1: Friends parting ways
- After a long chat at a cafe, one friend might say to the other, '이제 집에 데려다줄게.' (Ije jib-e de-ryeo-da-jul-ge.) - 'I'll take you home now.'
- Scenario 2: Late night
- If it's late and a colleague is leaving the office, you might offer, '제가 회사 앞에서 데려다드릴게요.' (Je-ga hoe-sa ap-e-seo de-ryeo-da-deu-ril-ge-yo.) - 'I'll give you a ride from in front of the company.'
- Scenario 3: Asking for help
- If you're unfamiliar with an area, you might ask a local, '이 근처에 데려다주실 수 있는 사람이 있을까요?' (I geun-cheo-e de-ryeo-da-ju-sil su i-neun sa-ram-i i-sseul-kka-yo?) - 'Is there anyone who can take me there?'
버스를 기다리는 친구를 역까지 데려다주다.
Basic Sentence Structure
The fundamental structure for using 데려다주다 is: [Subject] + [Object (person)] + [Destination (optional)] + 데려다주다. The 'object' is the person being taken, and the 'destination' specifies where they are being taken. The verb is then conjugated according to tense and politeness level.
Offering a Ride (Future Tense)
When you intend to give someone a ride, you'll often use the future tense, typically with -ㄹ/을게(요).
- Informal Offer
- 내가 너를 집까지 데려다줄게. (Naega neo-reul jip-kka-ji de-ryeo-da-jul-ge.) - I will take you home.
- Polite Offer
- 제가 이따가 회사 앞에서 데려다드릴게요. (Je-ga i-tta-ga hoe-sa ap-e-seo de-ryeo-da-deu-ril-ge-yo.) - I will give you a ride from in front of the company later.
늦었으니까, 내가 너를 역까지 데려다줄게.
Asking for a Ride (Question Form)
To ask for a ride, you typically use the -아/어 줄 수 있다 (can you do for me) structure.
- Informal Request
- 집까지 데려다줄 수 있어? (Jip-kka-ji de-ryeo-da-jul su i-sseo?) - Can you take me home?
- Polite Request
- 혹시 회사까지 데려다주실 수 있을까요? (Hok-shi hoe-sa-kka-ji de-ryeo-da-ju-sil su i-sseul-kka-yo?) - Could you possibly give me a ride to the company?
Expressing Gratitude (Past Tense)
After someone has dropped you off, you express thanks using the past tense, often with -아/어 주셔서.
- Informal Thanks
- 나를 여기까지 데려다줘서 고마워. (Na-reul yeo-gi-kka-ji de-ryeo-da-jwo-seo go-ma-wo.) - Thanks for dropping me off here.
- Polite Thanks
- 집까지 안전하게 데려다주셔서 정말 감사합니다. (Jip-kka-ji an-jeon-ha-ge de-ryeo-da-ju-shi-eo-seo jeong-mal gam-sa-ham-ni-da.) - Thank you very much for safely dropping me off at home.
친구가 나를 역까지 데려다주었다.
Using with Different Destinations
The destination can be explicit or implied. If it's implied from context (like 'home'), you might omit it.
- Specific Destination
- 저는 친구를 학교까지 데려다주었습니다. (Jeo-neun chin-gu-reul hak-gyo-kka-ji de-ryeo-da-ju-eoss-seum-ni-da.) - I dropped my friend off at school.
- Implied Destination (Home)
- 늦어서 미안해, 내가 데려다줄게. (Neu-jeo-seo mi-an-hae, nae-ga de-ryeo-da-jul-ge.) - I'm sorry I'm late, I'll take you (home).
Adding Adverbs for Nuance
You can add adverbs to provide more detail about how the drop-off happened.
- Safely
- 그녀를 집까지 안전하게 데려다주세요. (Geu-nyeo-reul jip-kka-ji an-jeon-ha-ge de-ryeo-da-ju-se-yo.) - Please drop her off at home safely.
- Quickly
- 빨리 데려다줄게. (Ppal-li de-ryeo-da-jul-ge.) - I'll take you there quickly.
Everyday Conversations
You will hear 데려다주다 constantly in everyday spoken Korean. It's a fundamental part of social interaction, especially when people are helping each other out with transportation.
- Friends and Family
- Imagine friends meeting up. After spending time together, one might say, '이제 집에 데려다줄게.' (Ije jib-e de-ryeo-da-jul-ge.) - 'I'll take you home now.' Or a parent might tell their child, '학원에서 끝나고 데려다줄게.' (Hak-won-e-seo kkeu-na-go de-ryeo-da-jul-ge.) - 'I'll pick you up from the academy and take you home.'
- Colleagues and Acquaintances
- If a colleague is leaving the office late, another might offer, '제가 집 근처까지 데려다드릴게요.' (Je-ga jip geun-cheo-kka-ji de-ryeo-da-deu-ril-ge-yo.) - 'I will give you a ride to near your home.' This shows consideration and politeness.
Public Transportation Contexts
Even when not directly involved in driving, the concept of 데려다주다 appears when discussing transportation plans.
- Meeting Points
- Someone might ask, '저를 지하철역까지 데려다주실 수 있어요?' (Jeo-reul ji-ha-cheol-yeok-kka-ji de-ryeo-da-ju-sil su i-sseo-yo?) - 'Can you take me to the subway station?' This implies asking for a ride or escort.
- Offering to Accompany
- If you are walking with someone to their bus stop, you might say, '제가 버스 정류장까지 데려다줄게요.' (Je-ga beo-seu jeong-ryu-jang-kka-ji de-ryeo-da-jul-ge-yo.) - 'I'll walk you to the bus stop.' Here, it means escorting them to ensure they get there.
Formal Settings
While more common in informal settings, it can appear in formal contexts when offering assistance, especially with the honorific -드리다.
- Business Context
- A host might say to a guest, '제가 숙소까지 모셔다드리겠습니다.' (Je-ga suk-so-kka-ji mo-shyeo-da-deu-ri-ge-sseum-ni-da.) - 'I will escort you to your accommodation.' While 모시다 is used for elders/superiors, 데려다주다 can be used in slightly less formal but still polite business interactions, e.g., 제가 역까지 데려다드리겠습니다. (I will give you a ride to the station.)
Media and Entertainment
In dramas, movies, and books, this verb is frequently used to depict characters showing care and responsibility for one another.
- Dramatic Scenes
- A character might say to another who is upset, '걱정 마, 내가 집까지 데려다줄게.' (Geok-jeong ma, nae-ga jip-kka-ji de-ryeo-da-jul-ge.) - 'Don't worry, I'll take you home.' This often signifies a protective gesture.
- Everyday Life Depictions
- A scene might show a parent picking up their child from school and saying, '학교 끝나고 데려다줄게.' (Hak-gyo kkeu-na-go de-ryeo-da-jul-ge.) - 'I'll pick you up from school and take you home.'
부모님이 자녀를 학원까지 데려다주다.
Confusing with '가다' (to go) or '오다' (to come)
A common mistake for beginners is using 가다 or 오다 when 데려다주다 is more appropriate. 가다 and 오다 are about movement, whereas 데려다주다 is about facilitating someone else's movement to a destination.
- Incorrect
- 제가 너를 집으로 가줄게. (This sounds like 'I will go to your house for you', which is awkward.)
- Correct
- 내가 너를 집으로 데려다줄게. (I will take you home.)
친구를 역까지 가주다 (X) vs 데려다주다 (O).
Confusing with '데리다' (to bring/take someone)
While 데리다 is part of the compound verb, using 데리다 alone doesn't convey the full meaning of 'dropping someone off.' 데리다 can mean to bring or take someone along, but 데려다주다 specifically includes the 'giving the service of arrival' aspect.
- Incorrect Usage
- 너를 집으로 데릴게. (This sounds like 'I will bring you home' but lacks the nuance of dropping off as a favor.)
- Correct Usage
- 너를 집으로 데려다줄게. (I will drop you off at home.)
Incorrect Omission of the Object
Forgetting to include the person being dropped off as the object can lead to confusion. The verb inherently implies someone is being taken somewhere.
- Ambiguous
- 집까지 데려다주다. (Who is being dropped off? It's unclear.)
- Clear
- 나를 집까지 데려다주다. (Drop me off at home.)
Misunderstanding the 'Favor' Aspect
The inclusion of 주다 means it's often perceived as a favor or a helpful act. Using it in a context where it's not a favor might sound strange, though this is less common than other mistakes.
- Potentially Awkward
- 택시 기사가 손님을 목적지까지 데려다주다. (While technically correct, it sounds a bit like the taxi driver is doing a personal favor rather than providing a service. More natural would be '목적지까지 운전하다' or simply stating the fare.)
- More Natural
- 택시 기사가 손님을 목적지까지 태워다주다. (The taxi driver takes the passenger to the destination.) or simply '목적지까지 운전하다' (to drive to the destination).
Key Distinction: 데려다주다 vs. 데리다
데려다주다 is a compound verb that emphasizes the act of taking someone *to* a destination and completing the action of delivery or drop-off, often as a favor. 데리다, on its own, means 'to bring' or 'to take' someone along. It focuses more on the act of escorting or accompanying someone without necessarily emphasizing the completion of reaching the destination as a service.
- 데려다주다 (To drop off / give a ride)
- Focuses on the completion of the journey for the other person, often as a favor. Implies taking them *to* their destination and leaving them there.
- 데리다 (To bring / take someone along)
- Focuses on the act of accompanying or escorting. It's more about the process of taking someone with you.
친구를 역까지 데려다주다 (drop off) vs. 친구를 데리다 (take along).
데려다주다 vs. 태워주다 (To give a ride)
태워주다 specifically means 'to give a ride' using a vehicle. 데려다주다 is broader; it can include giving a ride, but also walking someone to their destination or escorting them. If you are driving someone, 태워주다 is often used interchangeably with 데려다주다, but 데려다주다 can also apply when you are not in a vehicle.
- 데려다주다 (Drop off / Escort)
- Can be by car, walking, or any means. Focus is on ensuring arrival.
- 태워주다 (Give a ride - usually by vehicle)
- Specifically implies using a vehicle. If you offer a ride, '내가 태워줄게' and '내가 데려다줄게' are often interchangeable.
차로 친구를 집까지 태워다주다 / 데려다주다.
데려다주다 vs. 바래다주다 (To see someone off)
바래다주다 means 'to see someone off' or 'to escort someone to the point of departure' (like a train station or airport). The focus is on accompanying them *until* they leave. 데려다주다 is about taking them *to* their destination and leaving them there.
- 데려다주다 (Drop off)
- Ensures arrival at the destination. You leave them there.
- 바래다주다 (See off)
- Accompanying someone to their point of departure. You leave them *at* the departure point.
기차역까지 친구를 바래다주다 (see off) vs. 집까지 데려다주다 (drop off at home).
데려다주다 vs. 모셔다주다 (To escort respectfully)
모셔다주다 is a more honorific verb used when escorting someone of higher status, older than you, or someone you deeply respect. It carries a sense of reverence and careful service. 데려다주다 is more general and can be used with peers and friends.
- 데려다주다 (Drop off / Escort)
- Common, everyday usage. Suitable for friends, family, and acquaintances.
- 모셔다주다 (Escort respectfully)
- Honorific. Used for elders, superiors, or respected individuals. Implies great care and respect.
할머니를 집까지 모셔다주다 (respectfully escort) vs. 친구를 집까지 데려다주다 (drop off).
How Formal Is It?
Fun Fact
The structure of combining a verb stem with '주다' to indicate doing a favor for someone is very common in Korean. For example, '읽어주다' (to read for someone), '써주다' (to write for someone), and '들어주다' (to listen for someone) all follow this pattern, highlighting the cultural importance of mutual assistance and favors.
Pronunciation Guide
- Pronouncing '려' as a simple 'ryo' or 'reo' instead of the combined sound.
- Incorrectly separating the '데리다' and '주다' components, leading to unnatural pauses or intonation.
- Misplacing stress, making the word sound choppy rather than flowing.
Difficulty Rating
At A1/A2 level, reading sentences with <mark class='bg-pink-200 dark:bg-pink-800 px-0.5 rounded'>데려다주다</mark> is relatively straightforward, as the context usually makes the meaning clear. Learners can comprehend basic offers and requests. As sentences become more complex, involving multiple clauses or less common destinations, the difficulty increases.
Writing simple sentences using <mark class='bg-pink-200 dark:bg-pink-800 px-0.5 rounded'>데려다주다</mark> is achievable for beginners. Challenges arise when conjugating correctly, choosing the appropriate politeness level, and distinguishing it from similar verbs. Advanced learners will focus on nuanced usage and idiomatic expressions.
Speaking sentences with <mark class='bg-pink-200 dark:bg-pink-800 px-0.5 rounded'>데려다주다</mark> is crucial for everyday interactions. Beginners might hesitate with pronunciation or conjugation, but practicing common phrases like '데려다줄게' and '데려다줘서 고마워' is highly effective. Fluency comes with consistent practice in various social scenarios.
Recognizing <mark class='bg-pink-200 dark:bg-pink-800 px-0.5 rounded'>데려다주다</mark> in spoken Korean is generally easy due to its frequent use. Context usually clarifies the meaning. Difficulty might increase with fast speech, background noise, or when the verb is used in more complex grammatical structures or idiomatic expressions.
What to Learn Next
Prerequisites
Learn Next
Advanced
Grammar to Know
Conjugation of verbs in different tenses (present, past, future).
데려다주다 (present), 데려다주었다 (past), 데려다줄 것이다 (future).
Using honorifics (-시-) when referring to elders or superiors.
엄마가 나를 데려다주셨다. (Mom took me.) vs. 제가 부모님을 데려다드리겠습니다. (I will take my parents.)
Forming requests and offers using '-아/어 주다' and its variations.
데려다줘 (informal request), 데려다줄래? (informal offer), 데려다주실 수 있어요? (polite request).
Using the verb '주다' to indicate doing a favor or service for someone.
This is the core grammatical structure of 데려다주다.
Distinguishing between transitive and intransitive verbs and their object marking.
데려다주다 is transitive, requiring an object (the person being taken).
Examples by Level
집에 갈 때 내가 너를 데려다줄게.
When going home, I will take you.
Using the future tense '-ㄹ게' to offer help.
친구를 역까지 데려다주었어요.
I took my friend to the station.
Past tense '-었어요' to describe a completed action.
저를 집까지 데려다주실 수 있어요?
Can you take me home?
Asking for a favor using '-아/어 주실 수 있어요?'
고마워요. 여기까지 데려다줘서.
Thank you for taking me this far.
Expressing gratitude with '-아/어줘서 고마워요'.
엄마가 나를 학교에 데려다주셨어요.
Mom took me to school.
Using honorific '-시-' for mother.
늦었으니, 제가 데려다드릴게요.
It's late, so I will give you a ride.
Polite offer using '-드릴게요'.
집에 혼자 가지 마. 내가 데려다줄게.
Don't go home alone. I will take you.
Giving a command and offering help.
그는 나를 버스 정류장까지 데려다주었다.
He took me to the bus stop.
Simple past tense '-었다'.
늦었으니, 제가 회사 앞까지 데려다드릴게요.
It's late, so I will give you a ride to the front of the company.
Using honorific '-드리다' for politeness in a work context.
혹시 이 근처에 사는 친구를 집까지 데려다줄 수 있니?
Can you possibly take a friend who lives nearby home?
Using '혹시' for a softer request and informal '-니'.
저를 기차역까지 데려다주셔서 감사합니다.
Thank you for taking me to the train station.
Expressing gratitude for a past favor.
오늘 밤에는 내가 너를 집까지 데려다줄 수 없어.
Tonight, I cannot take you home.
Using '-ㄹ 수 없어' to express inability.
집에 가는 길이니? 나도 같은 방향인데, 같이 데려다줄까?
Are you going home? I'm going in the same direction, shall I take you?
Suggesting a shared ride using '-아/어줄까?'
아이를 유치원까지 데려다주는 것이 부모의 역할입니다.
Taking a child to kindergarten is a parent's role.
Describing a general role or duty.
그는 항상 친구들을 목적지까지 데려다주곤 했다.
He always used to take his friends to their destinations.
Using '-곤 했다' for past habitual actions.
너무 늦었으니, 택시로 데려다주는 게 좋겠어요.
It's very late, so it would be good to take you by taxi.
Suggesting an action using '-는 게 좋겠어요'.
친구가 술을 많이 마셔서 제가 집까지 데려다주어야 했습니다.
My friend drank a lot, so I had to take him home.
Expressing obligation '-어야 하다' in the past tense.
제가 오늘 저녁에 공항까지 모셔다드릴 수 있습니다.
I can escort you to the airport this evening (respectfully).
Using '모셔다드리다' for respectful escorting.
늦은 밤에는 여성 혼자 다니지 않도록 주변에서 데려다주는 문화가 있습니다.
There is a culture of people in the vicinity escorting women home late at night so they don't travel alone.
Describing a cultural norm.
우리가 그를 기차역까지 바래다주었지만, 그는 결국 혼자 기차를 탔다.
We saw him off at the train station, but he ended up taking the train alone.
Distinguishing between '바래다주다' (see off) and '데려다주다'.
차를 빌려서 친구들을 파티 장소까지 데려다주기로 약속했다.
I promised to rent a car and take my friends to the party venue.
Using '-기로 약속하다' (to promise to do).
그는 항상 도움이 필요한 사람들을 무언가로든 데려다주려고 노력했다.
He always tried to take people who needed help somewhere, by any means.
Using '-려고 노력했다' (tried to do).
안전하게 도착했는지 확인하려고 집까지 데려다주었습니다.
I took them home to make sure they arrived safely.
Using '-려고' (in order to) to explain purpose.
비가 많이 와서, 우산이 없는 동료를 건물 안까지 데려다주었다.
It was raining heavily, so I escorted my colleague, who didn't have an umbrella, inside the building.
Using '-는 동료를' to describe the colleague.
대중교통 이용이 어려운 노약자를 위해 자원봉사자들이 정기적으로 집까지 데려다주는 서비스를 제공한다.
Volunteers regularly provide a service to take the elderly and infirm, who find public transport difficult, to their homes.
Complex sentence structure describing a social service.
처음 방문하는 장소라 길을 잃을까 봐 친구가 역까지 데려다주겠다고 제안했다.
Since it was the first time visiting the place, my friend suggested they would take me to the station in case I got lost.
Using '-ㄹ까 봐' (for fear that) and '-겠다고 제안했다' (suggested they would).
그는 자신이 곤경에 처했을 때 도움을 받았던 것처럼, 다른 사람들도 목적지까지 데려다주곤 했다.
Just as he had received help when he was in trouble, he used to take others to their destinations.
Using '-던 것처럼' (like how) and '-곤 했다' (used to do).
택시 기사들은 승객을 목적지까지 태워다주는 것이 기본적인 의무이지만, 때로는 친절하게 이야기를 나누며 데려다주기도 한다.
While it is the basic duty of taxi drivers to take passengers to their destination, they sometimes also escort them while having friendly conversations.
Comparing '태워주다' and '데려다주다' in a professional context.
공항까지 바래다주는 것은 작별의 의미가 강하지만, 집까지 데려다주는 것은 좀 더 일상적인 도움의 표현이다.
Seeing someone off at the airport has a strong sense of farewell, but taking someone home is a more everyday expression of help.
Analyzing the nuanced meanings of related verbs.
그녀는 낯선 사람을 따라가지 말라고 아이들에게 가르치면서도, 안전한 곳까지는 데려다주라고 덧붙였다.
While teaching children not to follow strangers, she also added that they should be escorted to a safe place.
Using '-면서도' (while also) and '-라고 덧붙였다' (added that).
지역 사회에서는 노인들이 병원 방문 후 집까지 안전하게 데려다주는 자원봉사 프로그램을 운영하고 있다.
The local community operates a volunteer program that safely escorts the elderly home after their hospital visits.
Describing a community program.
새로운 직장으로 출근하는 방법을 몰라 망설이고 있었는데, 동료가 회사까지 데려다주겠다고 해서 안심했다.
I was hesitating because I didn't know how to get to the new workplace, but I felt relieved when a colleague offered to take me to the company.
Using '-아/어서 망설이다' (hesitate because) and '-겠다고 해서 안심했다' (felt relieved because they offered).
그는 곤궁에 처한 이들을 돕기 위해 자신의 시간을 기꺼이 할애하여 목적지까지 데려다주는 봉사를 꾸준히 실천했다.
He willingly devoted his time to help those in hardship, consistently practicing the service of taking them to their destinations.
Elevated vocabulary and complex sentence structure.
전통적인 한국 사회에서는 손님이 집을 나설 때, 집주인이 집 근처까지라도 배웅하며 데려다주는 것이 예의로 여겨졌다.
In traditional Korean society, when a guest left the house, it was considered polite for the host to accompany them to the vicinity of the house and see them off.
Discussing traditional etiquette and social norms.
단순히 목적지까지 데려다주는 행위를 넘어, 그 과정에서 나누는 대화와 교감이야말로 진정한 의미의 관계 형성에 기여한다.
Beyond the mere act of taking someone to their destination, the conversation and connection shared during the process truly contribute to forming meaningful relationships.
Philosophical reflection on the act of escorting.
그녀는 낯선 도시에서 길을 잃었을 때, 친절한 현지인이 목적지까지 데려다주었을 뿐만 아니라, 그곳에서의 안전까지 책임져 주었다.
When she got lost in the unfamiliar city, a kind local not only took her to her destination but also ensured her safety there.
Using '-뿐만 아니라' (not only... but also) and expressing a higher level of care.
과거에는 먼 거리를 이동할 때, 일행 중 누군가가 앞장서서 길을 안내하며 데려다주는 것이 일반적인 풍습이었다.
In the past, when traveling long distances, it was a common custom for someone in the group to lead the way, guide, and escort others.
Describing historical customs and practices.
자녀가 독립적인 생활을 시작하면서, 부모는 더 이상 곁에서 데려다주는 대신, 스스로 길을 찾도록 격려하는 데 초점을 맞추었다.
As their child began independent living, parents shifted their focus from escorting them closely to encouraging them to find their own way.
Describing a developmental shift in parenting.
회사가 직원을 야근 후 집까지 데려다주는 제도를 운영하는 것은, 직원 복지 차원에서 긍정적으로 평가받을 수 있다.
The company operating a system to take employees home after late-night work can be positively evaluated in terms of employee welfare.
Analyzing corporate policy and its implications.
그의 진심 어린 제안은 단순히 길을 안내하는 것을 넘어, 상대방이 목적지에 안전하게 도착할 때까지 책임지겠다는 의지의 표현이었다.
His sincere offer was not just about guiding the way, but an expression of his willingness to take responsibility until the other person safely arrived at their destination.
Interpreting the deeper meaning behind an offer.
그의 넉넉한 마음씨는 곤경에 처한 이들에게는 마치 등대가 되어, 그들이 목적지까지 안전하게 도달하도록 묵묵히 데려다주는 헌신을 보였다.
His generous heart became like a lighthouse for those in hardship, showing a devotion to silently escort them until they safely reached their destination.
Figurative language and profound emotional depth.
사회적 약자를 배려하는 문화 속에서, '데려다주다'라는 행위는 단순한 이동의 편의를 넘어, 공동체 구성원 간의 유대감과 상호 의존성을 강화하는 상징적 의미를 지닌다.
In a culture that cares for the socially vulnerable, the act of 'taking someone to their destination' transcends mere convenience of travel, holding symbolic meaning that strengthens the bond and interdependence among community members.
Sociological analysis and symbolic interpretation.
그녀는 낯선 땅에서 길을 잃었을 때, 현지인의 따뜻한 손길에 이끌려 목적지까지 데려다주어졌을 뿐만 아니라, 그 과정에서 잃었던 희망마저 되찾는 경험을 했다.
When she got lost in the unfamiliar land, guided by the kind touch of a local, she was not only taken to her destination but also regained the hope she had lost during the process.
Narrative richness and emotional resonance.
비록 그가 직접 운전하여 목적지까지 데려다주지는 못했지만, 그의 진심 어린 조언과 격려는 내가 홀로 그 길을 헤쳐나갈 수 있는 용기를 주었다.
Although he couldn't personally drive me to my destination, his sincere advice and encouragement gave me the courage to navigate the path alone.
Exploring the intangible impact of support.
전통적인 '바래다주다'의 의미가 기차역이나 항구에서의 작별에 국한된다면, 현대 사회의 '데려다주다'는 훨씬 더 폭넓은 맥락에서, 단순한 이동 지원을 넘어선 정서적 지지의 표현으로 확장되었다.
If the traditional meaning of 'seeing someone off' is limited to farewells at train stations or harbors, then 'taking someone to their destination' in modern society has expanded to a much broader context, extending beyond simple travel support to an expression of emotional support.
Historical and semantic evolution of the verb's usage.
그는 마치 어린 시절 부모님이 자신을 늘 안전하게 집까지 데려다주시던 기억을 되살리듯, 묵묵히 길을 안내하며 그녀의 발걸음을 지켰다.
As if reliving the memory of his parents always safely escorting him home during his childhood, he silently guided the way, watching over her steps.
Evoking personal memories and mirroring past actions.
사회적 안전망이 부족한 지역에서는, 이웃 간에 서로를 목적지까지 데려다주는 행위가 단순한 호의를 넘어, 생존을 위한 필수적인 협력의 형태로 자리 잡았다.
In areas lacking a social safety net, the act of neighbors escorting each other to their destinations has become not just a simple favor, but a form of essential cooperation for survival.
Analyzing the role of the verb in survival and community.
그녀의 연설은 단순히 정보를 전달하는 것을 넘어, 청중들이 자신의 꿈이라는 목적지까지 안전하게 도달할 수 있도록 용기와 희망을 주는 '정신적 데려다주기'였다.
Her speech went beyond simply conveying information; it was a 'spiritual escorting' that gave the audience courage and hope to safely reach their destination of dreams.
Metaphorical and abstract application of the verb's concept.
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
— I'll take you home.
길이 어두우니, 내가 집까지 데려다줄게.
— Thanks for taking me this far.
너무 늦어서 미안해. 여기까지 데려다줘서 고마워.
— Can you give me a ride?
혹시 시내까지 데려다줄 수 있어요?
— I'll give you a ride / I'll take you.
네가 혼자 가는 것보다 내가 데려다줄게.
— Please take me to the station.
제가 기차를 놓치지 않도록 역까지 데려다주세요.
— Please take me there safely.
늦은 시간이니, 집까지 안전하게 데려다주세요.
— Thank you for dropping me off.
집까지 편안하게 데려다주셔서 감사합니다.
— Shall I take you home with me?
너도 이쪽으로 가니? 같이 집에 데려다줄까?
— I can't take you tonight.
오늘은 너무 피곤해서 너를 집까지 데려다줄 수 없어.
— I took my friend to school.
아침에 바빠서 친구를 학교까지 데려다주었다.
Often Confused With
데려다주다 involves taking *another person* to a destination, whereas 가다 is simply about oneself or a group going somewhere.
데려다주다 includes the aspect of 'giving' the service of arrival, implying a completed favor. 데리다 focuses more on the act of escorting or accompanying.
데려다주다 is about taking someone *to* their destination and leaving them there. 바래다주다 is about accompanying them to their point of departure (e.g., station) and saying goodbye.
Idioms & Expressions
— Literally 'to become feet,' this idiom means to be someone's transport or to help them get around, often by driving them. It's very similar in meaning to 데려다주다 when driving is involved.
그는 항상 친구들의 발이 되어 집까지 데려다주곤 했다. (He always acted as his friends' transport, taking them home.)
Informal/Figurative— Literally 'to become hands and feet,' this idiom means to help someone with everything they need, including transportation. It's a more comprehensive form of help than just 데려다주다.
그녀는 몸이 불편한 이웃의 손과 발이 되어 집까지 데려다주고 장도 봐주었다. (She became hands and feet for her unwell neighbor, taking them home and even grocery shopping.)
Informal/Figurative— Literally 'to become a back,' this idiom means to support someone, to be their refuge, or to protect them. While not directly about transportation, the act of 데려다주다 can be a manifestation of this protective support.
어려운 시기에 그는 나의 등이 되어주었고, 밤늦게까지 집까지 데려다주었다. (During a difficult time, he became my support and took me home late at night.)
Figurative/Supportive— Literally 'to open a path,' this idiom means to create an opportunity for someone or to help them move forward. In a literal sense, 데려다주다 can be seen as opening a path to someone's destination.
그의 도움으로 나는 새로운 기회를 얻었고, 그는 마치 나의 목적지까지 길을 열어주었다. (With his help, I got a new opportunity, and it was as if he opened the path to my destination for me.)
Figurative/Opportunity— Literally 'to be embraced in someone's arms,' this idiom implies being taken care of, sheltered, or brought to safety. While not directly about transportation, arriving home safely after being 데려다주다 can evoke this feeling of security.
늦은 밤, 부모님의 품에 안기듯 집까지 데려다주는 따뜻함을 느꼈다. (Late at night, I felt the warmth of being taken home, as if embraced in my parents' arms.)
Figurative/Comfort— Literally 'to extend a hand,' this idiom means to offer help or assistance. Offering to 데려다주다 is a form of extending a helping hand.
그는 어려움에 처한 사람들에게 언제나 손을 내밀어 집까지 데려다주었다. (He always extended a hand to people in difficulty, taking them home.)
Figurative/Help— This means 'to support someone's endeavors,' often financially or by providing practical help. While 데려다주다 is a specific act, it can be part of a larger pattern of support.
부모님은 자녀가 학업에 집중할 수 있도록 셔틀버스로 학교까지 데려다주는 등 뒷바라지했다. (Parents supported their child by providing services like taking them to school by shuttle bus so they could focus on their studies.)
Figurative/Support— Literally 'to light up the path,' this idiom means to guide someone, to show them the way, or to help them find a solution. It's similar to 데려다주다 in its guiding aspect.
어두운 밤길에 그는 나의 등대가 되어 집까지 길을 밝혀주었다. (In the dark night, he became my lighthouse and lit the way home for me.)
Figurative/Guidance— This means 'to escort someone safely,' often with a sense of care and respect. It overlaps with 데려다주다 but carries a stronger emphasis on safety and respect.
보호자가 아이를 안전하게 집까지 모셨다. (The guardian safely escorted the child home.)
Formal/Careful— This means 'to accompany someone.' While 데려다주다 implies reaching a destination, '동행해주다' is about the journey together.
그녀는 친구가 불안해하자, 끝까지 동행해주며 집까지 데려다주었다. (When her friend felt anxious, she accompanied her all the way, taking her home.)
Formal/AccompanimentEasily Confused
Both involve movement to a destination.
<mark class='bg-pink-200 dark:bg-pink-800 px-0.5 rounded'>데려다주다</mark> is about taking *another person* to a destination and completing the service for them. <span class='font-mono bg-gray-200 dark:bg-gray-700 px-1 rounded'>가다</span> is simply about the subject's own movement. You wouldn't say '내가 너를 집으로 가줄게' (I will go home for you) but rather '내가 너를 집으로 데려다줄게' (I will take you home).
나는 학교에 간다. (I go to school.) vs. 나는 친구를 학교까지 데려다준다. (I take my friend to school.)
It's a component of <mark class='bg-pink-200 dark:bg-pink-800 px-0.5 rounded'>데려다주다</mark> and also means 'to take someone'.
<mark class='bg-pink-200 dark:bg-pink-800 px-0.5 rounded'>데려다주다</mark> emphasizes the completion of the journey as a favor or service. <span class='font-mono bg-gray-200 dark:bg-gray-700 px-1 rounded'>데리다</span> focuses more on the act of escorting or accompanying someone. For example, '아이를 공원에 데리다' (take the child to the park) is about accompanying them, while '아이를 공원까지 데려다주다' (take the child to the park and drop them off) implies completing the task.
동생을 학원까지 데리고 갔어요. (I took my younger sibling to the academy.) vs. 동생을 학원까지 데려다주었어요. (I dropped my younger sibling off at the academy.)
Both imply giving someone a ride.
<mark class='bg-pink-200 dark:bg-pink-800 px-0.5 rounded'>데려다주다</mark> can mean to escort someone on foot or by vehicle, focusing on the arrival. <span class='font-mono bg-gray-200 dark:bg-gray-700 px-1 rounded'>태워주다</span> specifically implies giving a ride *using a vehicle*. While often interchangeable when driving, <mark class='bg-pink-200 dark:bg-pink-800 px-0.5 rounded'>데려다주다</mark> is broader.
차가 있으니 집까지 태워줄게. (Since I have a car, I'll give you a ride home.) vs. 비가 많이 오니, 우산으로 집까지 데려다줄게. (It's raining a lot, so I'll escort you home with an umbrella.)
Both involve accompanying someone.
<mark class='bg-pink-200 dark:bg-pink-800 px-0.5 rounded'>데려다주다</mark> means taking someone to their destination and leaving them there. <span class='font-mono bg-gray-200 dark:bg-gray-700 px-1 rounded'>바래다주다</span> means seeing someone off at their point of departure (like a station) and saying goodbye. You <mark class='bg-pink-200 dark:bg-pink-800 px-0.5 rounded'>데려다주다</mark> someone *to* their house, but you <span class='font-mono bg-gray-200 dark:bg-gray-700 px-1 rounded'>바래다주다</span> someone *at* the station.
기차역까지 바래다주었다. (I saw him off at the train station.) vs. 집까지 데려다주었다. (I dropped him off at home.)
Both mean to escort someone to a destination.
<mark class='bg-pink-200 dark:bg-pink-800 px-0.5 rounded'>데려다주다</mark> is general and used with peers or inferiors. <span class='font-mono bg-gray-200 dark:bg-gray-700 px-1 rounded'>모셔다주다</span> is a highly honorific term used for elders, superiors, or respected individuals, implying a much higher degree of respect and care.
할머니를 집까지 모셔다드렸다. (I respectfully escorted grandma home.) vs. 친구를 집까지 데려다주었다. (I dropped my friend off at home.)
Sentence Patterns
[Subject] + [Object] + [Destination] + 데려다주다.
나는 친구를 학교까지 데려다주었다.
[Object] + [Destination] + 데려다주다.
동생을 집까지 데려다주었습니다.
[Subject] + [Object] + [Destination] + 데려다줄게(요).
내가 너를 역까지 데려다줄게.
[Object] + [Destination] + 데려다줄 수 있어(요)?
저를 집까지 데려다줄 수 있어요?
[Object] + [Destination] + 데려다줘서 고마워(요).
여기까지 데려다줘서 고마워.
[Subject] + [Object] + [Destination] + 데려다주어야 했다.
그는 늦은 친구를 집까지 데려다주어야 했다.
[Subject] + [Object] + [Destination] + 데려다주기 위해...
그는 동생을 학교까지 데려다주기 위해 일찍 일어났다.
단순히 [Object] + [Destination] + 데려다주는 것을 넘어...
단순히 친구를 집까지 데려다주는 것을 넘어, 그의 고민을 들어주었다.
Word Family
Nouns
Verbs
Related
How to Use It
Very High
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Using '가다' (to go) instead of '데려다주다'.
→
내가 너를 집까지 데려다줄게.
Incorrect: '내가 너를 집까지 가줄게.' This sounds like 'I will go home for you,' which is awkward. <mark class='bg-pink-200 dark:bg-pink-800 px-0.5 rounded'>데려다주다</mark> specifically means to take someone else to their destination.
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Forgetting the object (the person being taken).
→
나를 집까지 데려다줘.
Incorrect: '집까지 데려다줘.' It's unclear who is being dropped off. You need to specify the object: '나를' (me), '친구를' (friend), etc.
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Using '데리다' alone instead of '데려다주다' when meaning to drop off.
→
친구가 늦어서 집까지 데려다주었다.
Incorrect: '친구가 늦어서 집까지 데리었다.' While '데리다' means to take someone along, <mark class='bg-pink-200 dark:bg-pink-800 px-0.5 rounded'>데려다주다</mark> implies completing the action as a service or favor.
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Confusing '데려다주다' with '바래다주다'.
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기차역까지 바래다주었다. (Saw him off at the station.)
Incorrect: '기차역까지 데려다주었다.' <mark class='bg-pink-200 dark:bg-pink-800 px-0.5 rounded'>데려다주다</mark> means taking someone to their final destination. <span class='font-mono bg-gray-200 dark:bg-gray-700 px-1 rounded'>바래다주다</span> means accompanying someone to their point of departure (like a station) and saying goodbye.
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Incorrect conjugation or politeness level.
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제가 집까지 데려다드릴게요. (Polite offer)
Incorrect informal conjugation for a superior: '내가 집까지 데려다줄게.' (This would be used for a friend). Incorrect polite conjugation for a friend: '내가 집까지 데려다드릴게.'
Tips
Favor Structure
Remember that the '-아/어 주다' structure inherently implies doing a favor. This makes 데려다주다 a very common and polite verb for offering help.
Break it Down
Think of 데려다주다 as 'de-ryeo-da-ju-da'. '데려' relates to taking someone, and '다주다' implies completing the action by 'giving' them to their destination. Visualize a car dropping someone off!
Smooth Flow
Practice saying 데려다주다 smoothly, paying attention to the '려' sound. Native speakers often link the syllables together for a natural flow.
Distinguish Similar Verbs
Be aware of verbs like 태워주다 (give a ride), 바래다주다 (see off), and 모셔다주다 (escort respectfully) to choose the most appropriate word for the situation.
Role-Playing
Engage in role-playing scenarios: offer a ride, ask for one, express thanks. This active practice will solidify your understanding and usage of 데려다주다.
Cultural Significance
Understand that offering transportation is a common way to show care and build relationships in Korean culture. Using 데려다주다 appropriately demonstrates social awareness.
Object Marking
Remember that 데려다주다 is a transitive verb and requires an object (the person being taken), usually marked with the object particle -을/를.
Implied Destination
Often, the destination (like 'home') is implied by context. In such cases, you can simply say '내가 데려다줄게' (I'll take you), and it will be understood.
Everyday Essential
데려다주다 is a high-frequency verb. Mastering it will significantly improve your ability to communicate in everyday Korean situations.
Memorize It
Mnemonic
Imagine you are a chauffeur, a 'driver-giver' (데려다주다 sounds a bit like 'driver-give-a-ride'). You drive someone, and you 'give' them the destination. Think of '데려' (de-ryeo) as 'drive-her' and '다주다' (da-ju-da) as 'deliver-you-all'. So, 'Drive-her, deliver-you-all!'
Visual Association
Picture a car driving someone to their house. The driver smiles and waves goodbye as the person gets out, signifying the 'drop-off'. Associate the 'ring' sound of '데려다주다' with the 'ding' of a car arriving at its destination.
Word Web
Challenge
Try to use 데려다주다 in at least three different sentences today, imagining different scenarios like offering a ride to a friend, asking someone for a ride, or thanking someone for dropping you off.
Word Origin
The verb 데려다주다 is a compound verb derived from two distinct Korean words: '데리다' (to bring or take someone) and '주다' (to give). The combination signifies the act of 'giving' the service of 'taking' someone to a destination.
Original meaning: The core meaning is to take someone somewhere and give them the completed action of arrival. The '주다' (give) component adds the nuance of performing this action as a favor or service for someone.
KoreanicCultural Context
When using 데려다주다, consider the relationship and context. Offering to 데려다주다 to someone unfamiliar or of significantly higher status might require more formal language or could be perceived as overly familiar depending on the situation. Conversely, not offering when appropriate within close relationships might be seen as lacking consideration.
In English-speaking cultures, offering a ride is also common, but the Korean phrase 데려다주다 specifically encompasses the act of completing the journey for someone, implying a completed service or favor. Phrases like 'I'll give you a ride,' 'I'll drop you off,' or 'I'll take you home' are equivalents.
Practice in Real Life
Real-World Contexts
Offering a ride to a friend after meeting up.
- 집까지 데려다줄게.
- 내가 데려다줄까?
- 같이 갈래? 내가 데려다줄게.
Asking for a ride home late at night.
- 저를 집까지 데려다주실 수 있나요?
- 혹시 회사 앞에서 데려다주실 수 있어요?
- 너무 늦어서 그런데, 집까지 데려다주시면 안 될까요?
Expressing gratitude after being dropped off.
- 데려다주셔서 감사합니다.
- 여기까지 데려다줘서 고마워.
- 안전하게 데려다주셔서 정말 감사해요.
Parents taking children to school or extracurricular activities.
- 엄마가 학교까지 데려다줄게.
- 아빠가 학원까지 데려다주셨어요.
- 오늘도 학교까지 데려다주셨어요.
Offering help to someone unfamiliar with the area.
- 제가 길을 아는데, 목적지까지 데려다드릴게요.
- 어디까지 가세요? 제가 데려다드릴 수 있어요.
- 걱정 마세요. 제가 역까지 데려다드릴게요.
Conversation Starters
"오늘 너를 어디까지 데려다줄 수 있을까?"
"혹시 내가 너를 집까지 데려다주는 게 괜찮을까?"
"어디까지 데려다줄까? 네 목적지가 어디야?"
"예전에 너를 회사까지 데려다준 적이 있었지?"
"오늘 밤 너를 집까지 데려다줄 사람이 필요해?"
Journal Prompts
Think about a time someone <mark class='bg-pink-200 dark:bg-pink-800 px-0.5 rounded'>데려다주다</mark> you. How did it make you feel? Write about it.
Imagine you are offering to <mark class='bg-pink-200 dark:bg-pink-800 px-0.5 rounded'>데려다주다</mark> a friend who looks tired. Write the conversation.
Describe a situation where you had to ask someone to <mark class='bg-pink-200 dark:bg-pink-800 px-0.5 rounded'>데려다주다</mark> you. Why did you ask?
Write a short story about a memorable experience where someone <mark class='bg-pink-200 dark:bg-pink-800 px-0.5 rounded'>데려다주다</mark> you. What made it special?
How would you politely decline an offer to be <mark class='bg-pink-200 dark:bg-pink-800 px-0.5 rounded'>데려다주다</mark> if you didn't want to accept?
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questions데려다주다 means to take someone to a destination and leave them there. It can be done by walking or by vehicle. 태워주다 specifically means to give someone a ride using a vehicle. When driving someone, they are often interchangeable, but 데려다주다 is more versatile.
Yes, absolutely. While it's often used for driving, 데려다주다 can also mean to escort someone on foot to their destination, ensuring they arrive safely.
The verb structure with '주다' inherently carries the nuance of doing something as a favor or service. So, yes, it generally implies a helpful gesture. This is why it's a polite way to offer assistance with transportation.
데려다주다 means to take someone to their destination and leave them there. 바래다주다 means to see someone off at their point of departure (like a train station) and say goodbye. You 데려다주다 someone home, but you 바래다주다 someone at the station.
You can use 데려다주다 in a request form. For example, '저를 집까지 데려다주실 수 있어요?' (Can you drop me off at home?) or more simply, if the destination is understood, '집까지 데려다줘.' (Drop me off at home.)
The most common and natural way is using the future tense offer form: '내가 데려다줄게.' (I'll give you a ride/take you.) For politeness, you can add '-요': '제가 데려다줄게요.'
No, 데려다주다 is specifically used for people. For objects, you would use verbs like '옮기다' (to move) or '가져다주다' (to bring something).
데려다주다 implies taking someone to their destination and leaving them there, often as a service. 이끌다 means to lead or guide, focusing on the process of showing the way rather than completing the journey.
You use the past tense of 데려다주다 followed by an expression of thanks. Common phrases include: '데려다주셔서 감사합니다.' (Thank you for dropping me off - polite) or '데려다줘서 고마워.' (Thanks for dropping me off - informal).
Yes, for elders, superiors, or someone you want to show significant respect to, you use 모셔다주다. For example, '할머니를 집까지 모셔다드리겠습니다.' (I will respectfully escort grandma home.)
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Summary
The Korean verb <mark class='bg-pink-200 dark:bg-pink-800 px-0.5 rounded'>데려다주다</mark> is essential for expressing the act of taking someone to a specific location and ensuring their arrival. It's frequently used in everyday conversations, from friends offering rides home to family members escorting children. The verb implies a helpful gesture, making it a polite and considerate way to assist others in reaching their destinations, whether by car or on foot. For example, '집까지 <mark class='bg-pink-200 dark:bg-pink-800 px-0.5 rounded'>데려다줄게</mark>' (I'll take you home) is a very common and useful phrase.
- The Korean verb <mark class='bg-pink-200 dark:bg-pink-800 px-0.5 rounded'>데려다주다</mark> means to drop someone off or escort them to a destination.
- It's a common verb used when offering or asking for rides, or when walking someone somewhere.
- It implies completing the journey for the other person, often as a helpful gesture.
- It's similar to '태워주다' (give a ride) but can also mean escorting on foot.
Context is Key
While 데려다주다 is versatile, always consider the context. Offering to 데려다주다 is a kind gesture, but using the correct politeness level is crucial for showing respect.
Favor Structure
Remember that the '-아/어 주다' structure inherently implies doing a favor. This makes 데려다주다 a very common and polite verb for offering help.
Break it Down
Think of 데려다주다 as 'de-ryeo-da-ju-da'. '데려' relates to taking someone, and '다주다' implies completing the action by 'giving' them to their destination. Visualize a car dropping someone off!
Smooth Flow
Practice saying 데려다주다 smoothly, paying attention to the '려' sound. Native speakers often link the syllables together for a natural flow.
Related Content
More transport words
탑승
A1Boarding, the act of getting on a vehicle.
화물
A1Cargo, goods carried on a ship, aircraft, or vehicle.
가깝게
A1Closely or nearby.
건널목
A1A railroad crossing, a place where a railway crosses a road.
출발지
A1A starting point, the place from which a journey begins.
아래로
A1Downward or below.
운전면허
A1A driver's license, an official document permitting one to drive.
비행
A1Flight, the act of flying or traveling by air.
주유소
A1A gas station, a place to refuel vehicles.
고속도로
A1A highway designed for high-speed travel, a freeway or expressway.