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B2 noun #4,500 most common 9 min read

관용

Top 4,500

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips 관용 in 30 Seconds

Explanation 관용 in your Level:

At the A1 level, '관용' (Gwanyong) is a bit difficult because it is a formal word. However, you can think of it as a very big 'kindness' or 'understanding.' Imagine a friend makes a mistake, and instead of getting angry, you smile and say 'it's okay.' This 'big heart' is what 관용 is about. In simple Korean, we often use '착한 마음' (kind heart) or '이해' (understanding) instead. You might hear it in stories about kings or heroes who are very kind to people. Just remember: it means having a wide mind that can hold many different things without getting upset. It is like a big room where everyone can fit, even if they are different from you.

At the A2 level, you can start to see '관용' as 'tolerance.' It is a word used when you accept someone who is different. For example, if your friend likes a different type of food or music, and you respect that, you are being tolerant. In Korean, we say '관용을 베풀다' which means 'to show tolerance.' You will see this word in school books when talking about how to be a good friend or a good citizen. It is more formal than '이해하다' (to understand). If you want to sound very polite or talk about something serious like 'peace,' you can use this word. It's about not being narrow-minded. A person with '관용' is someone who doesn't judge others quickly.

At the B1 level, '관용' is an important vocabulary word for discussing social issues and abstract concepts. It refers to the willingness to tolerate or accept behaviors and beliefs that are different from your own. You will encounter it in news articles, especially those discussing 'multiculturalism' (다문화주의) or 'social harmony' (사회적 화합). It's important to distinguish it from '용서' (forgiveness). While '용서' is often personal, '관용' is a broader social virtue. For instance, a government might show '관용' to people who broke a minor law. You should practice using it with verbs like '베풀다' (to bestow) or in its adjective form '관용적이다' (to be tolerant). It is a key word for intermediate learners who want to talk about ethics and society.

At the B2 level, '관용' is a core term for academic and professional discourse. It aligns with the CEFR B2 requirement of understanding complex text and expressing viewpoints on social issues. '관용' is often discussed in the context of 'liberal democracy' and 'human rights.' You should be able to discuss the 'spirit of tolerance' (관용의 정신) and how it applies to religious, political, and cultural diversity. At this level, you should also be aware of the 'zero-tolerance policy' (무관용 원칙) and how it is used in legal or disciplinary contexts. You might use '관용' to argue for social leniency or to describe the philosophical basis of a peaceful society. It requires a nuanced understanding of when to use it versus synonyms like '아량' (magnanimity) or '포용' (inclusion).

At the C1 level, you must master the subtle nuances and historical weight of '관용.' This involves understanding its relationship with the French concept of 'La Tolérance' and how it has been integrated into Korean legal and philosophical thought. You should be able to use it in complex sentence structures, such as discussing the 'limits of tolerance' in a pluralistic society. C1 learners should recognize '관용' in high-level literature, legal documents, and philosophical treatises. You should also be able to distinguish between '관용' (tolerance) and '관용' (customary use/idiom) instantly based on context. Your usage should reflect an understanding of power dynamics, as '관용' often implies a person or entity in a position of authority choosing to refrain from exercising their power to punish or exclude.

At the C2 level, '관용' is a tool for sophisticated rhetorical and philosophical expression. You should be able to critique the concept itself, perhaps discussing the 'paradox of tolerance' or the evolution of '관용' in the context of modern Korean history and its transition to a multicultural society. Your use of the word should be indistinguishable from a native speaker's, employing it in academic papers, high-level debates, or creative writing to evoke specific ethical or social atmospheres. You should be comfortable using related Hanja-based terms like '관용적 처분' (lenient disposition) or '불관용' (intolerance) in precise legal or sociological contexts. At this level, '관용' is not just a word but a conceptual framework through which you can analyze and discuss the complexities of human coexistence and justice.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

관용 in 30 Seconds

A formal noun meaning tolerance or magnanimity.
Used to describe accepting differences or showing mercy/leniency.
Commonly paired with '베풀다' (to show) and '정신' (spirit).
Essential for discussing social harmony, law, and ethics.

The Korean word 관용 (寬容) is a profound noun that transcends simple kindness; it represents the philosophical and social virtue of tolerance and magnanimity. At its core, it describes a mindset where one intentionally chooses to accept or permit behaviors, beliefs, or practices that differ from their own, or even those they might personally find objectionable. In the context of Korean society, which has historically been influenced by Confucian values emphasizing harmony (화합), 관용 serves as a critical bridge between individual differences and collective stability.

Etymological Roots: The Hanja 寬 (관) means 'wide' or 'broad,' and 容 (용) means 'to contain' or 'to allow.' Together, they describe a 'wide capacity to contain others,' suggesting a heart so vast that it can hold differing views without conflict.
Social Context: You will frequently encounter this word in political discourse, legal contexts (referring to leniency or pardon), and human rights discussions. It is the opposite of narrow-mindedness (옹졸함) and exclusion (배타성).

민주주의 사회에서 가장 중요한 덕목 중 하나는 타인의 생각에 대한 관용입니다. (One of the most important virtues in a democratic society is tolerance for the thoughts of others.)

Historically, the concept of 관용 is often linked to the French term tolérance. In a Korean context, it is used to describe the act of a superior showing mercy to an inferior, or a majority group accepting a minority group. It is not merely passive endurance but an active choice to foster a peaceful coexistence. For instance, when a public figure makes a mistake and the public decides to move past it, they are said to show 관용. However, it is also a term used in legal settings where a judge might show leniency toward a defendant who has shown genuine remorse.

그는 적수에게도 관용을 베푸는 도량을 가졌다. (He had the magnanimity to show tolerance even to his rivals.)

In daily conversation, you might use 관용 when discussing social issues like multiculturalism (다문화주의). As Korea becomes more diverse, the call for 관용 toward foreign cultures and different lifestyle choices has increased. It is seen as a sign of maturity and high social capital. If someone is described as having a '관용적인 태도' (tolerant attitude), it is a high compliment implying they are open-minded and not easily provoked by differences.

Psychological Aspect: Psychologically, practicing 관용 requires cognitive flexibility. It means holding your own values while acknowledging that others have the right to hold theirs. It reduces social friction and promotes mental well-being by decreasing anger and resentment.

우리는 서로의 다름을 관용으로 감싸 안아야 합니다. (We must embrace each other's differences with tolerance.)

Using 관용 correctly involves understanding its grammatical pairings. It is most commonly used as the object of the verb 베풀다 (to bestow/show) or 보이다 (to show). It can also be used as an adjective by adding -적 to form 관용적 (tolerant). This section explores the structural nuances of integrating this high-level vocabulary into your Korean speech and writing.

Common Verb Pairings: 1. 관용을 베풀다: To show leniency or tolerance (often used by authorities or in formal settings). 2. 관용을 구하다: To seek pardon or forgiveness. 3. 관용을 보이다: To demonstrate a tolerant attitude.

정부는 시위대에게 최대한의 관용을 베풀기로 결정했습니다. (The government decided to show maximum leniency to the protesters.)

When describing a person's character, you can use the phrase 관용이 있다/없다 (to have/not have tolerance) or 관용이 넓다 (to have broad tolerance). Note that 관용 is a formal word, so using it in casual settings might sound a bit stiff unless you are discussing serious topics. For instance, instead of saying 관용을 베풀어 줘 to a friend who is mad at you, it is more natural to say 좀 봐줘 (take it easy on me) or 이해해 줘 (understand me). Use 관용 for systemic, social, or deeply ethical discussions.

Adjectival Usage: The adjective 관용적 is used to describe policies, attitudes, or societies. For example, '관용적인 사회' (a tolerant society) or '관용적인 태도' (a tolerant attitude). It suggests a systematic openness to diversity.

그는 타인의 실수에 대해 매우 관용적인 사람입니다. (He is a person who is very tolerant of others' mistakes.)

In academic writing, 관용 is often paired with 정신 (spirit). The phrase 관용의 정신 (spirit of tolerance) is a staple in essays about global citizenship and peace. It emphasizes that tolerance is not just an action but an underlying philosophy. For example, "우리는 관용의 정신을 바탕으로 갈등을 해결해야 한다" (We must resolve conflicts based on the spirit of tolerance).

종교적 관용은 중세 시대 이후 중요한 사회적 과제였습니다. (Religious tolerance has been an important social task since the Middle Ages.)

Negative Forms: To express the opposite, you can use 불관용 (intolerance) or phrases like 관용이 부족하다 (to lack tolerance). '무관용 원칙' (zero-tolerance policy) is a common term in law enforcement and school discipline.

You will likely encounter 관용 in environments that demand formal or abstract thought. While it is not a word used to buy groceries, it is a word used to build a nation or settle a lawsuit. Hearing this word signals that the conversation has moved into the realm of ethics, law, or high-level social commentary.

The News and Media: News anchors frequently use 관용 when reporting on legal pardons or political reconciliation. For example, during a holiday, the president might grant 특별 사면과 관용 (special pardons and leniency) to certain prisoners. You will also hear it in debates about immigration or minority rights.

이번 조치는 사회 통합을 위한 대승적 차원의 관용입니다. (This measure is a broad-minded tolerance for the sake of social integration.)

In the classroom or in educational documentaries, 관용 is discussed as a pillar of modern civilization. Teachers might talk about the 'Paradox of Tolerance' (관용의 역설) by Karl Popper, explaining that a society that is infinitely tolerant will eventually be destroyed by the intolerant. This shows that 관용 is a heavy word with deep philosophical roots.

법의 엄격함보다는 인간적인 관용이 필요한 때입니다. (It is a time when human tolerance is needed more than the strictness of the law.)

In literature and essays, 관용 is often personified or described as a 'warm light' or 'broad ocean.' Authors use it to contrast with the 'coldness' of strict rules. If you read Korean editorials (사설), you will see writers calling for more 관용 in a society they perceive as becoming increasingly polarized and judgmental.

Legal and Administrative Settings: When applying for a visa or dealing with administrative errors, you might hear about '관용적인 처분' (lenient disposition). This means the authority has decided not to punish a minor mistake strictly.

그의 진심 어린 사과에 위원회는 관용을 베풀기로 했습니다. (The committee decided to show tolerance following his sincere apology.)

While 관용 is a powerful word, it is easy for learners to misuse it due to its formal nature and homonyms. Understanding where 관용 ends and other words begin is key to sounding like a proficient speaker.

Mistake 1: Confusing it with '관용구' (Idiom): In Korean, '관용구' (慣用句) means an idiom or a phrase used by habit. The Hanja for 'Gwan' is different (慣 - habit vs. 寬 - broad). Learners often think '관용' refers to language habits. Remember: Tolerance is 寬容, Common use is 慣用.

❌ 이 표현은 관용입니다. (This expression is tolerance - Incorrect) ✅ 이 표현은 관용구입니다. (This expression is an idiom - Correct)

Another common mistake is using 관용 in very casual, personal contexts. If you forget to bring a book you borrowed from a friend, saying "나에게 관용을 베풀어 줘" sounds overly dramatic and almost sarcastic. In such cases, 용서 (forgiveness) or 이해 (understanding) is much more appropriate. 관용 carries a weight of 'bestowing' something from a position of power or principle.

Mistake 2: Overusing '관용하다': While '관용하다' is a valid verb, it is quite rare in modern spoken Korean. It is almost always better to use the noun form with a verb like '베풀다' or '보이다'. Using '관용하다' can make your speech sound like a 19th-century translation of a philosophy book.

❌ 우리는 적을 관용해야 한다. (Awkward) ✅ 우리는 적에게 관용을 베풀어야 한다. (Natural)

Lastly, learners sometimes confuse 관용 with 방관 (neglect/looking on). Tolerance (관용) is a deliberate and principled acceptance, whereas 방관 is simply not caring or failing to intervene when one should. True 관용 requires an active understanding of the other person's position, not just ignoring them.

Mistake 3: Misplacing the Particle: Because '관용' is a noun, it needs the right particles. When showing tolerance 'to' someone, use '에게'. When asking 'for' tolerance, use '을/를'.

Korean has a rich vocabulary for 'kindness' and 'acceptance.' Choosing the right synonym depends on the depth of the emotion and the context of the relationship. Here is how 관용 compares to its close relatives.

아량 (Magnanimity): 아량 refers to the 'size' of one's heart or mind. While 관용 is the act or principle of tolerance, 아량 is the internal capacity to be generous. You 'have' (있다) 아량.
포용 (Inclusion/Embrace): 포용 is more active. It means to wrap someone or something in an embrace. It's often used in the context of '포용 정책' (inclusive policy). While 관용 is letting someone be, 포용 is bringing them in.

그는 넓은 아량으로 부하의 실수를 덮어주었다. (He covered his subordinate's mistake with great magnanimity.)

For more common, everyday situations, use 이해 (understanding) or 배려 (consideration). 배려 is specifically about acting in a way that helps or respects the other person's situation. For example, giving up your seat on a bus is 배려, not 관용. 관용 is reserved for when there is a potential for conflict or judgment that you are choosing to set aside.

자비 (Mercy/Charity): 자비 has a religious (Buddhist or Christian) undertone. It is the pity or love shown to those who are suffering or who have sinned. 관용 is more secular and philosophical.

사회의 포용력이 높을수록 갈등은 줄어듭니다. (The higher the society's capacity for inclusion, the fewer the conflicts.)

In a legal context, 선처 (lenient treatment) is the most common alternative. When someone writes a letter to a judge, they ask for '선처' rather than '관용', though they mean the same thing in practice. 선처 literally means 'handling the situation well/kindly'.

용서 (Forgiveness): 용서 is personal and emotional. You forgive a person for a specific wrong they did to you. 관용 is broader and often applies to groups, ideas, or general behaviors.

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

The character 容 (yong) originally depicted a person's face, suggesting that one's tolerance is often reflected in their facial expression and demeanor.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /ɡwa.ɲoŋ/

US /ɡwa.njɔŋ/

Stress is even on both syllables, common in Korean.

Rhymes With

안녕 (annyeong) 반영 (banyeong) 진영 (jinyeong) 공용 (gongyong) 수용 (suyong) 활용 (hwalyong) 전용 (jeonyong) 포용 (poyong)

Common Errors

Pronouncing 'g' too harshly like 'k'.
Confusing 'nyong' with 'yong'.
Shortening the 'wa' vowel too much.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 4/5

Common in editorials and news, but requires understanding of abstract concepts.

Writing 4/5

Requires knowledge of specific verb pairings like '베풀다'.

Speaking 3/5

Used in serious discussions, not common in casual chat.

Listening 4/5

Can be confused with '관용구' if context isn't clear.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

이해 (understanding) 마음 (heart/mind) 다르다 (to be different) 받아들이다 (to accept) 실수 (mistake)

Learn Next

포용 (inclusion) 다양성 (diversity) 민주주의 (democracy) 윤리 (ethics) 철학 (philosophy)

Advanced

변증법 (dialectics) 다원주의 (pluralism) 계몽주의 (Enlightenment) 시혜 (beneficence)

Grammar to Know

-적 (Suffix forming adjectives from nouns)

관용 + 적 = 관용적 (tolerant)

-에게 (To/for a person)

그에게 관용을 베풀었다.

-을/를 베풀다 (To show/bestow - used with abstract nouns)

자비를 베풀다, 관용을 베풀다.

-(으)로 (By means of / with)

관용으로 감싸 안다.

-(ㄴ/는)다는 것 (Making a clause into a noun phrase)

관용을 베푼다는 것은 어려운 일이다.

Examples by Level

선생님은 관용이 많은 사람이에요.

The teacher is a very tolerant person.

Noun + 이/가 많다 (to have a lot of...)

우리는 친구에게 관용을 배워야 해요.

We should learn tolerance from our friends.

Noun + 을/를 배우다 (to learn...)

관용은 착한 마음이에요.

Tolerance is a kind heart.

Noun + 은/는 + Noun + 이에요 (A is B)

동생의 실수를 관용으로 봐주세요.

Please look at your younger sibling's mistake with tolerance.

Noun + 으로 (with/by means of)

그 왕은 관용이 넓었어요.

That king had broad tolerance.

Adjective '넓다' used to describe the noun '관용'.

서로 관용을 베풀어요.

Let's show tolerance to each other.

Imperative -어요 (Let's...)

관용이 있으면 싸우지 않아요.

If there is tolerance, we don't fight.

Conditional -(으)면 (If...)

엄마는 항상 저에게 관용을 보여주세요.

Mom always shows me tolerance.

Honorific -세요.

다른 문화를 이해하려면 관용이 필요합니다.

Tolerance is needed to understand other cultures.

-(으)려면 (In order to...)

그는 친구의 잘못에 대해 관용을 베풀었습니다.

He showed tolerance toward his friend's mistake.

Past tense -었습니다.

사회에는 더 많은 관용이 있어야 해요.

There should be more tolerance in society.

-어야 하다 (Must/Should)

관용적인 태도는 아주 중요합니다.

A tolerant attitude is very important.

Adjective form -적(인).

우리는 서로의 차이를 관용으로 받아들여야 합니다.

We must accept each other's differences with tolerance.

받아들이다 (to accept).

이 책은 관용의 중요성을 가르쳐 줍니다.

This book teaches the importance of tolerance.

Noun + 의 (possessive particle).

그녀는 누구에게나 관용을 보여주는 사람입니다.

She is a person who shows tolerance to everyone.

Noun-modifying form -는.

법원도 때로는 관용을 베풀 때가 있습니다.

The court also sometimes shows leniency.

-(으)ㄹ 때가 있다 (There are times when...)

다문화 사회에서 관용의 정신은 필수적입니다.

In a multicultural society, the spirit of tolerance is essential.

필수적 (essential).

정부는 정치범들에게 특별 관용을 베풀기로 했습니다.

The government decided to grant special leniency to political prisoners.

-기로 하다 (to decide to).

그의 무례한 행동에도 그녀는 관용을 잃지 않았습니다.

Despite his rude behavior, she did not lose her tolerance.

-에도 불구하고 (despite).

관용은 갈등을 해결하는 가장 평화로운 방법입니다.

Tolerance is the most peaceful way to resolve conflict.

Superlative '가장'.

우리는 종교적 관용을 실천해야 합니다.

We must practice religious tolerance.

실천하다 (to practice/put into action).

판사는 피고인의 사정을 고려하여 관용을 보였습니다.

The judge showed leniency, considering the defendant's circumstances.

-여 (shortened form of -어서).

관용이 없는 사회는 차갑고 삭막합니다.

A society without tolerance is cold and desolate.

삭막하다 (desolate).

그는 자신의 실수에는 관대하면서 남에게는 관용이 없습니다.

He is generous to his own mistakes but has no tolerance for others.

-(으)면서 (while/at the same time).

민주주의의 기본 원칙 중 하나는 타인의 견해에 대한 관용입니다.

One of the basic principles of democracy is tolerance for others' views.

견해 (view/opinion).

우리는 불의에 대해서는 불관용의 원칙을 지켜야 합니다.

We must maintain a principle of intolerance toward injustice.

불관용 (intolerance).

그 철학자는 관용이 문명의 척도라고 주장했습니다.

The philosopher argued that tolerance is the measure of civilization.

-라고 주장하다 (to argue that...).

현대 사회는 다양한 가치관이 공존하므로 관용이 더욱 요구됩니다.

In modern society, where diverse values coexist, tolerance is increasingly required.

-므로 (because/since).

그의 논문은 관용의 역사적 변천 과정을 다루고 있습니다.

His thesis covers the historical transition of tolerance.

다루다 (to deal with/cover).

관용을 베푸는 것이 반드시 약함을 의미하는 것은 아닙니다.

Showing tolerance does not necessarily mean weakness.

-(ㄴ/는)다는 것은 ... 의미하는 것은 아니다.

사회적 소수자에 대한 관용은 성숙한 시민 의식의 표현입니다.

Tolerance for social minorities is an expression of mature civic consciousness.

시민 의식 (civic consciousness).

그는 법의 엄격함과 인간적 관용 사이에서 고민했습니다.

He agonized between the strictness of the law and human tolerance.

사이에서 (between).

볼테르는 관용이 인간의 가장 소중한 권리라고 강조했습니다.

Voltaire emphasized that tolerance is the most precious right of humans.

강조하다 (to emphasize).

무분별한 관용은 때로 사회적 무질서를 초래할 위험이 있습니다.

Indiscriminate tolerance sometimes risks causing social disorder.

초래하다 (to bring about/cause).

관용의 역설은 관용이 파괴되는 것을 막기 위해 불관용을 허용하지 않는 것입니다.

The paradox of tolerance is not allowing intolerance to prevent the destruction of tolerance.

-(ㄴ/는)다는 것이다 (It is that...).

국가는 종교적 신념의 다양성을 보장하기 위해 관용적 태도를 견지해야 합니다.

The state must maintain a tolerant attitude to guarantee the diversity of religious beliefs.

견지하다 (to maintain/hold).

그 판결은 법리적 엄격성보다는 사회적 화합을 위한 관용에 무게를 두었습니다.

The ruling placed more weight on tolerance for social harmony than on legal strictness.

무게를 두다 (to place weight/importance on).

진정한 관용은 단순히 참는 것이 아니라 타자의 타자성을 인정하는 것입니다.

True tolerance is not just enduring, but acknowledging the 'otherness' of the other.

타자성 (otherness).

역사적으로 관용은 권력자가 피지배층에게 베푸는 시혜적 성격이 강했습니다.

Historically, tolerance had a strong character of a favor bestowed by the powerful upon the ruled.

시혜적 (charitable/beneficent).

그의 비판은 관용이라는 이름 아래 행해지는 기회주의적 태도를 꼬집었습니다.

His criticism pointed out the opportunistic attitude carried out under the name of tolerance.

꼬집다 (to pinch/point out sharply).

관용의 개념은 근대 계몽주의 철학의 산물로서, 시민 사회의 존립 근거가 되었습니다.

The concept of tolerance, as a product of modern Enlightenment philosophy, became the basis for the existence of civil society.

존립 근거 (basis for existence).

포스트모더니즘적 관점에서 관용은 절대적 진리의 부재를 전제로 합니다.

From a postmodern perspective, tolerance presupposes the absence of absolute truth.

전제로 하다 (to presuppose).

우리는 타자의 고통에 대한 관용이 아닌, 공감과 연대의 정치를 지향해야 합니다.

We should aim for a politics of empathy and solidarity, rather than mere tolerance for the suffering of others.

지향하다 (to aim for/aspire to).

법치주의 국가에서 관용은 자의적 판단이 아닌 법률이 허용하는 범위 내에서 이루어져야 합니다.

In a state governed by the rule of law, tolerance should occur within the scope permitted by law, not by arbitrary judgment.

자의적 (arbitrary).

그 사상가는 관용을 소극적 수용에서 적극적 환대로 확장해야 한다고 역설했습니다.

The thinker emphasized that tolerance should be expanded from passive acceptance to active hospitality.

역설하다 (to emphasize/stress).

현대적 의미의 관용은 상호 존중과 대화를 통한 합의의 산물로 재정의되고 있습니다.

Tolerance in the modern sense is being redefined as a product of consensus through mutual respect and dialogue.

재정의되다 (to be redefined).

헤겔의 변증법적 논리에 따르면, 관용은 대립하는 가치들이 고차원적으로 통합되는 과정의 일부입니다.

According to Hegel's dialectical logic, tolerance is part of the process where opposing values are integrated at a higher level.

변증법적 (dialectical).

지구촌 사회의 지속 가능한 발전을 위해서는 문화적 다양성에 대한 범지구적 관용이 필수적입니다.

Global tolerance for cultural diversity is essential for the sustainable development of the global village.

범지구적 (global/pan-global).

Synonyms

포용 너그러움 아량 이해

Antonyms

불관용 편협

Common Collocations

관용을 베풀다

관용의 정신

관용적 태도

종교적 관용

관용을 구하다

무관용 원칙

관용이 넓다

정치적 관용

관용을 보이다

문화적 관용

Common Phrases

관용을 베풀다

— To show mercy or tolerance to someone.

잘못을 저지른 아이에게 관용을 베풀었다.

관용을 구하다

— To ask for forgiveness or leniency.

그는 눈물을 흘리며 관용을 구했다.

관용적이다

— To be tolerant in nature or attitude.

그 나라는 이민자들에게 매우 관용적이다.

관용의 한계

— The limit of what can be tolerated.

이러한 범죄는 관용의 한계를 넘어섰다.

관용을 잃다

— To lose one's patience or tolerance.

계속되는 거짓말에 그는 관용을 잃었다.

관용을 강조하다

— To emphasize the importance of tolerance.

교육자는 학생들에게 관용을 강조해야 한다.

관용을 실천하다

— To practice tolerance in daily life.

말보다는 행동으로 관용을 실천하자.

관용의 가치

— The value of being tolerant.

우리는 관용의 가치를 재인식해야 한다.

관용을 약속하다

— To promise leniency.

정부는 자수하는 자에게 관용을 약속했다.

관용을 호소하다

— To appeal for mercy or tolerance.

그의 가족은 법원에 관용을 호소했다.

Often Confused With

관용 vs 관용구 (慣用句)

Means 'idiom' or 'set phrase'. Shares the sound '관용' but different Hanja.

관용 vs 용서 (容恕)

Personal forgiveness. '관용' is broader and more social/principled.

관용 vs 방관 (傍觀)

To stand by and watch without acting. '관용' is a choice to accept, not just ignoring.

Idioms & Expressions

"바다와 같은 관용"

— Tolerance as wide as the sea.

그는 바다와 같은 관용으로 모든 것을 받아들였다.

Literary

"관용의 미덕"

— The virtue of tolerance.

관용의 미덕을 아는 사람이 진정한 리더다.

Formal

"눈감아 주다"

— To turn a blind eye (informal way of showing leniency).

이번 한 번만 눈감아 줄게.

Informal

"너그러운 마음"

— A generous/broad heart.

너그러운 마음으로 이해해 주세요.

Neutral

"통이 크다"

— To be big-hearted or generous (often with money or behavior).

그는 통이 커서 웬만한 실수는 다 넘어가 준다.

Informal

"대승적 차원"

— From a broader/higher perspective (often used when granting tolerance for the greater good).

대승적 차원에서 관용을 베풀기로 했다.

Formal

"가슴이 넓다"

— To have a wide chest (be broad-minded).

그는 가슴이 넓어서 남의 말을 잘 들어준다.

Neutral

"뒤끝이 없다"

— To not hold a grudge (related to being tolerant after a conflict).

그는 성격이 시원시원하고 뒤끝이 없다.

Informal

"손이 크다"

— To be generous (usually with portions of food or gifts).

우리 할머니는 손이 커서 음식을 항상 많이 하신다.

Informal

"허허실실"

— Appearing empty but being full (sometimes used for a leader who uses tolerance strategically).

그는 허허실실 전법으로 적의 경계심을 풀었다.

Literary

Easily Confused

관용 vs 포용 (包容)

Both involve accepting others.

관용 is tolerance (letting be), 포용 is inclusion (bringing in).

그는 모든 의견을 포용했다.

관용 vs 아량 (雅量)

Both mean being generous.

아량 is the internal capacity (having a big heart), 관용 is the principle/act.

아량이 넓은 리더.

관용 vs 자비 (慈悲)

Both involve mercy.

자비 is religious/pity-based, 관용 is secular/ethics-based.

부처님의 자비.

관용 vs 선처 (善處)

Both used for leniency.

선처 is specifically asking for a 'kind handling' of a situation in official contexts.

선처를 호소하다.

관용 vs 인내 (忍耐)

Both involve 'bearing' something.

인내 is enduring pain or hardship; 관용 is accepting differences.

고통을 참는 인내.

Sentence Patterns

N에게 관용을 베풀다

동생에게 관용을 베풀었어요.

관용이 필요하다

우리 사회에는 관용이 필요합니다.

관용적인 N

그는 관용적인 사람이에요.

관용의 정신을 바탕으로 ...

관용의 정신을 바탕으로 대화합시다.

N에 대한 관용

타인에 대한 관용을 가져야 합니다.

관용을 구하다

그는 법원에 관용을 구했습니다.

무관용 원칙을 적용하다

학교는 폭력에 무관용 원칙을 적용합니다.

관용의 역설에 직면하다

우리는 현대 사회의 관용의 역설에 직면해 있습니다.

Word Family

Nouns

관용 (tolerance)

불관용 (intolerance)

관용구 (idiom - homonym)

관용성 (tolerance property)

Verbs

관용하다 (to tolerate - rare)

관용을 베풀다 (to show tolerance)

Adjectives

관용적 (tolerant)

너그럽다 (generous - native Korean synonym)

용서 (forgiveness)

이해 (understanding)

포용 (inclusion)

아량 (magnanimity)

자비 (mercy)

How to Use It

frequency

Medium-High in formal media, Low in daily casual speech.

Common Mistakes

Using '관용' for 'idiom'. → 관용구
관용 (寬容) is tolerance. 관용구 (慣用句) is an idiom.
Saying '나를 관용해줘' to a friend. → 나를 이해해줘 / 용서해줘
관용 is too formal for casual personal apologies.
Using '관용' as a verb '관용하다' in speech. → 관용을 베풀다
The noun-verb combination is much more natural than the single verb form.
Confusing '관용' with '방관'. → 관용
Tolerance is active acceptance; neglect is passive ignoring. Use '관용' for principled acceptance.
Misspelling '관용' as '광용'. → 관용
It's 'Gwan' (관), not 'Gwang' (광).

Tips

Use with '베풀다'

Always pair '관용' with '베풀다' (to show/bestow) to sound natural in formal writing.

Legal Leniency

When reading news about a judge's decision, '관용' means they didn't give the maximum punishment.

Multiculturalism

In essays about Korea's changing society, '관용' is the keyword for accepting foreigners.

Check the Hanja

Remember 寬 (Wide) to distinguish it from the 'Gwan' in 'Gwan-gye' (Relationship).

Tone Matters

Use this word when you want to sound intellectual or deeply moral.

Adjective Form

Use '관용적' to describe a person's general character or a country's laws.

Opposite is '불관용'

If someone is strictly against something, they show '불관용' (intolerance).

Confucian Root

Understand that '관용' is a virtue of a 'Gun-ja' (superior man) in Korean culture.

The 'Spirit' of Tolerance

Phrasing it as '관용의 정신' is very common in introductions of social essays.

Listen for 'Mu'

If you hear 'Mu-gwan-yong', it means 'Zero Tolerance'—a very strict policy.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of a 'WIDE' (Gwan) 'CONTAINER' (Yong). A wide container can hold many different things without them bumping into each other.

Visual Association

Imagine a giant, open ocean (Gwan) that can hold all kinds of fish (different people/ideas) without any problem.

Word Web

Tolerance Mercy Broad-minded Acceptance Leniency Diversity Harmony Peace

Challenge

Try to use '관용을 베풀다' in a sentence about a historical figure you admire.

Word Origin

Derived from Hanja (Sino-Korean characters). 寬 (너그러울 관) + 容 (담을 용/얼굴 용).

Original meaning: To have a broad capacity to contain or hold things (like a large vessel or a wide mind).

Sino-Korean

Cultural Context

Be careful not to use '관용' when someone has committed a truly heinous crime, as it might sound like you are trivializing the victim's suffering.

In English, 'tolerance' can sometimes sound passive. In Korean, '관용' usually sounds like a very active and noble virtue.

Voltaire's 'Treatise on Tolerance' The Paradox of Tolerance (Karl Popper) Nelson Mandela's life is often cited as an example of 관용.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Legal/Court

선처를 바랍니다
관용을 베풀다
정상을 참작하다
무관용 원칙

Politics/Social Issues

사회적 통합
관용의 정신
다문화 사회
소수자 보호

Education/Ethics

도덕적 덕목
타인에 대한 배려
관용 교육
역지사지

History

성군의 치세
종교적 화합
과거사 청산
화해와 관용

Personal Relationships

넓은 아량
실수를 덮어주다
이해의 폭
서로 양보하다

Conversation Starters

"요즘 우리 사회에 관용이 부족하다고 생각하시나요?"

"타인의 실수를 어디까지 관용으로 받아들여야 할까요?"

"관용의 정신이 민주주의에 왜 중요하다고 생각하세요?"

"당신이 살면서 가장 큰 관용을 베풀었던 경험은 무엇인가요?"

"무관용 원칙이 범죄 예방에 정말 효과가 있을까요?"

Journal Prompts

오늘 내가 다른 사람에게 관용을 베풀었던 순간에 대해 써보세요.

나와 의견이 다른 사람을 대할 때 관용을 유지하는 것이 왜 어려울까요?

'관용의 역설'에 대한 자신의 생각을 정리해 보세요.

내가 누군가에게 관용을 구해야 했던 경험과 그 결과를 기록해 보세요.

관용이 넘치는 사회는 어떤 모습일지 상상하며 묘사해 보세요.

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

Rarely in casual talk. It's used in news, books, and formal debates about society or law.

용서 is forgiving a specific person for a hurt. 관용 is being tolerant of different ideas or showing general leniency.

No, '관용구' means an idiom or a commonly used phrase. They are different words.

It's '무관용' (Mu-gwan-yong), often used as '무관용 원칙' (Zero-tolerance principle).

Yes, but it sounds very old-fashioned or academic. Use '관용을 베풀다' instead.

Generally yes, but philosophers discuss the 'Paradox of Tolerance' where too much tolerance can lead to social harm.

寬 (wide) and 容 (contain/face).

No, but it is a core value of liberalism.

You can say you show '관용' to your kids' mistakes, but it sounds very formal—like a king talking to subjects.

The closest is '너그러움' (generosity/broad-mindedness).

Test Yourself 200 questions

writing

Translate to Korean: 'We need the spirit of tolerance.'

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

Spirit of tolerance = 관용의 정신.