절실하다 in 30 Seconds
- Describes an urgent, pressing, or desperate need or strong feeling.
- Conveys a sense of critical necessity or intense emotion.
- Used when something is vitally important or deeply felt.
- Implies a level of desperation or profound requirement.
- Core Meaning
- The Korean adjective '절실하다' (jeolshilhada) describes a state of being extremely urgent, pressing, or desperate. It signifies a situation where something is profoundly needed, or a feeling is intensely felt, to the point of desperation. It conveys a sense of extreme necessity or a deep, overwhelming emotion that demands immediate attention or resolution.
- Urgency and Necessity
- When something is '절실하다', it means it's not just important, but vital. Imagine needing water in a desert; that need is '절실하다'. In a more everyday context, it could be the urgent need for a job to pay bills or the pressing desire for a cure for a serious illness. This word emphasizes the critical nature of the situation, where the lack of something or the presence of a strong desire has significant consequences.
- Intense Feelings
- Beyond simple need, '절실하다' can also describe powerful emotions. For instance, a mother's love for her child might be described as '절실하다', implying a deep, protective, and unwavering affection that feels essential to her being. Similarly, a desperate hope for success or a profound sense of longing can be '절실하다'. It paints a picture of emotions that are not superficial but run deep and are intensely felt.
- Contextual Nuances
- The specific nuance of '절실하다' can vary depending on the context. In a survival situation, it highlights a life-or-death need. In personal relationships, it might express a deep yearning for connection or reconciliation. In professional settings, it could refer to the urgent need for a solution to a critical problem. The word is versatile, always conveying a heightened sense of importance and intensity.
- When to Use
- Use '절실하다' when you want to emphasize that something is not just needed, but desperately needed, or when an emotion is overwhelmingly strong and fundamental. It's often used in situations that evoke strong empathy or highlight significant challenges.
그녀는 절실한 도움이 필요했습니다.
성공에 대한 그의 열망은 절실했다.
생존을 위한 물의 필요성이 절실했다.
그는 진심으로 용서를 구하는 것이 절실했다.
그녀의 꿈은 이루어지기를 절실히 바랐다.
- Basic Structure
- The adjective '절실하다' typically functions as a predicate, describing a noun. It can be used directly or with auxiliary verbs like '하다' to form adverbs or to modify other verbs. The most common structure is Subject + (Object) + 절실하다. For example, '나는 도움이 절실하다' (I desperately need help).
- Expressing Needs
- '절실하다' is frequently used to express urgent needs. This can range from basic necessities like food and shelter to more abstract needs like understanding, love, or opportunity. For instance, '그는 따뜻한 말 한마디가 절실했다' (He desperately needed a single warm word). This highlights the emotional or psychological void that needs filling.
- Describing Strong Emotions
- When describing intense feelings, '절실하다' conveys a deep and overwhelming emotional state. This could be a desperate hope, a profound longing, or an intense desire. For example, '그녀는 합격하기를 절실히 바랐다' (She desperately hoped to pass the exam). Here, '절실히' is the adverbial form, modifying the verb '바랐다' (hoped) to emphasize the intensity of her desire.
- In Formal and Informal Contexts
- '절실하다' is suitable for both formal and informal situations, though its intensity might lend itself more to serious or emotionally charged conversations. In formal writing, it can be used to convey the gravity of a situation. In informal settings, it can express a strong personal feeling or need. For instance, '우리에게는 지금 당장 자금이 절실합니다' (We desperately need funds right now) is a statement that could be made in a business meeting or a personal plea.
- Using the Adverbial Form
- The adverbial form '절실히' (jeolshilhi) is commonly used to modify verbs, intensifying the action or state described by the verb. Examples include '절실히 원하다' (to desperately want), '절실히 필요하다' (to desperately need), and '절실히 바라다' (to desperately hope). This form allows for more dynamic sentence construction.
그는 진정한 친구가 절실했다.
이 프로젝트는 성공이 절실하다.
그는 휴식이 절실했다.
그녀는 새로운 기회가 절실했다.
그는 진실이 절실했다.
- News and Current Events
- You'll frequently encounter '절실하다' in news reports, especially when discussing humanitarian crises, natural disasters, or significant social issues. For instance, a report on a famine-stricken region might state that 'food aid is desperately needed' (식량 지원이 절실하다). Similarly, in discussions about political reforms or economic recovery, the urgency for certain measures might be described as '절실하다'.
- Human Interest Stories
- In documentaries, personal essays, and human interest pieces, '절실하다' is used to convey the depth of individuals' struggles and aspirations. A story about a struggling artist might highlight their 'desperate need for recognition' (인정에 대한 절실한 필요). A narrative about overcoming adversity often features moments where hope or a specific opportunity felt '절실하다'.
- Personal Testimonies and Appeals
- When people are making a heartfelt plea or sharing their deepest feelings, '절실하다' is a powerful word to use. This could be in a speech, a letter, or even a casual conversation where someone is expressing a profound need. For example, someone might say, 'I desperately need your understanding' (당신의 이해가 절실합니다). This emphasizes the emotional weight behind their request.
- Literary Works and Dramas
- In Korean literature, films, and television dramas, '절실하다' is often used to build emotional intensity and highlight character motivations. A character facing a life-altering decision might feel a 'desperate need for guidance' (지시에 대한 절실한 필요). A story of unrequited love might describe the protagonist's 'desperate longing' (절실한 그리움) for the object of their affection. It's a word that effectively conveys high stakes and deep emotions within narratives.
- Conversations About Goals and Ambitions
- When discussing personal goals or ambitions, especially those that are challenging to achieve, people might use '절실하다' to convey the seriousness of their intent. For example, an athlete preparing for a competition might say, 'Winning this championship is desperately important to me' (이 챔피언십에서 우승하는 것이 나에게 절실하다). This shows the deep personal investment and the high stakes involved.
그는 절실한 기회를 잡고 싶었다.
그녀는 진정한 사랑이 절실했다.
그는 변화가 절실했다.
그녀는 삶의 의미를 절실히 찾고 있었다.
그들은 안정이 절실했다.
- Confusing with Similar Intensity Words
- Learners might confuse '절실하다' with words that express general importance or strong desire but lack the same level of desperation or urgency. For instance, using it where '중요하다' (important) or '간절하다' (earnest, fervent) would be more appropriate. While '간절하다' also implies strong desire, '절실하다' often carries a heavier implication of necessity or a critical lack. For example, saying '시험에 합격하는 것이 중요했다' (It was important to pass the exam) is different from '시험에 합격하는 것이 절실했다' (It was desperately important to pass the exam), which suggests a dire consequence if one fails.
- Incorrect Grammatical Usage
- As an adjective, '절실하다' should function as a predicate or be modified by adverbs. A common mistake is to try and use it as a noun or in a way that doesn't fit Korean adjective grammar. For example, incorrectly saying something like '나는 절실을 느꼈다' (I felt a desperation) might be grammatically awkward; it's better to say '나는 절실함을 느꼈다' (I felt a sense of desperation) or '나는 절실하게 느꼈다' (I felt it desperately). Also, ensure correct conjugation when attaching sentence endings like '-습니다', '-어요', or '-다'.
- Overuse in Trivial Situations
- '절실하다' is a strong word, and using it for minor inconveniences or everyday wants can diminish its impact. For instance, saying '나는 오늘 아이스크림이 절실하다' (I desperately need ice cream today) might sound overly dramatic unless there's a specific, compelling reason behind the need. It's best reserved for situations with significant emotional or practical weight.
- Misinterpreting the Degree of Urgency
- While '절실하다' implies strong urgency, it doesn't always mean immediate, life-or-death crisis. Learners might interpret it as only for extreme emergencies. However, it can also apply to strong personal desires or pressing needs that aren't life-threatening but are nonetheless critical for the individual's well-being or goals. Understanding the context is key to correctly gauging the degree of urgency conveyed.
- Confusing with '급하다' (urgent)
- '급하다' means urgent in terms of time or immediate necessity. '절실하다' is about the depth of need or the intensity of desire. While a situation can be both '급하다' and '절실하다', they are not interchangeable. For example, a fire alarm is '급하다' (urgent), but the need for a cure for a chronic disease is '절실하다' (desperate/profoundly needed). You might say, '이 문제는 급하게 해결해야 한다' (This problem must be solved urgently), but '그는 사랑이 절실했다' (He desperately needed love) expresses a deep emotional void.
잘못된 사용: 나는 물이 급하다. (This implies immediate thirst, but '절실하다' implies a deeper, more desperate need for water.)
올바른 사용: 나는 생존을 위해 물이 절실하다. (This emphasizes the desperate need for survival.)
잘못된 사용: 나는 행복이 중요했다. (This is grammatically correct but lacks the intensity of '절실하다'.)
올바른 사용: 그녀는 진정한 행복이 절실했다. (This conveys a deep, perhaps unmet, longing for happiness.)
잘못된 사용: 나는 친구가 간절했다. ('간절하다' is about earnestness or fervent desire, not necessarily a desperate need.)
- 간절하다 (ganjeolhada)
- Similarities: Both '간절하다' and '절실하다' express a strong desire or need. They can sometimes be used interchangeably when talking about intense wishing or longing.
- Differences: '간절하다' focuses more on the earnestness and sincerity of the desire, often implying a pleading or heartfelt wish. '절실하다' emphasizes the critical necessity or desperation of the need. You might have a '간절한' wish for a good grade, but a '절실한' need for a job to survive.
- Example: '시험 합격을 간절히 바랐다.' (I earnestly hoped to pass the exam.) vs. '그녀는 생존을 위해 음식이 절실했다.' (She desperately needed food for survival.)
- 필요하다 (piryohada)
- Similarities: Both indicate a need for something.
- Differences: '필요하다' is a general term for 'to need'. It lacks the intensity of '절실하다'. '절실하다' implies a deep, often desperate, necessity, while '필요하다' can refer to any kind of need, from casual to essential.
- Example: '나는 펜이 필요하다.' (I need a pen.) vs. '나는 지금 당장 도움이 절실하다.' (I desperately need help right now.)
- 절박하다 (jeolbakhada)
- Similarities: Both '절박하다' and '절실하다' convey a sense of desperation and urgency.
- Differences: '절박하다' often implies a situation of extreme difficulty or being cornered, leading to a desperate state. It can describe a person's feeling of being in a tight spot or a situation that demands immediate, drastic action. '절실하다' focuses more on the profound need or intense desire itself, rather than the feeling of being trapped. One might feel '절박하다' in a dangerous situation, while a scientist might feel a '절실한' need for a breakthrough.
- Example: '그는 절박한 상황에 처했다.' (He was in a desperate situation.) vs. '그녀는 삶의 의미가 절실했다.' (She desperately sought the meaning of life.)
- 시급하다 (sigeuphada)
- Similarities: Both indicate urgency.
- Differences: '시급하다' (often used as '시급히') means 'urgent' primarily in terms of time, indicating that something needs to be done immediately. '절실하다' is about the depth of need or the intensity of desire. A task might be '시급하다' (urgent), but the need for fundamental change might be '절실하다' (desperately needed).
- Example: '긴급 지원이 시급하다.' (Emergency aid is urgently needed.) vs. '그는 진정한 우정이 절실했다.' (He desperately needed true friendship.)
- 갈망하다 (galmanghada)
- Similarities: Both express a strong desire.
- Differences: '갈망하다' is a verb meaning 'to yearn for' or 'to crave'. It describes the act of intensely desiring something, often something abstract or elusive. '절실하다' is an adjective describing the state of being desperately needed or felt. While one might '갈망하다' (yearn for) peace, the need for peace in a war-torn region could be described as '절실하다' (desperately needed).
- Example: '그는 자유를 갈망했다.' (He yearned for freedom.) vs. '그녀는 자유가 절실했다.' (She desperately needed freedom.)
'간절하다' vs '절실하다': '간절하다'는 진심으로 바라는 마음, '절실하다'는 꼭 필요하거나 강렬한 느낌.
'필요하다' vs '절실하다': '필요하다'는 일반적인 필요, '절실하다'는 매우 강하고 절박한 필요.
'절박하다' vs '절실하다': '절박하다'는 어려운 상황, '절실하다'는 깊은 필요나 강렬한 감정.
'시급하다' vs '절실하다': '시급하다'는 시간적 긴급성, '절실하다'는 필요나 욕구의 강도.
'갈망하다' vs '절실하다': '갈망하다'는 동사로 갈구함, '절실하다'는 형용사로 꼭 필요한 상태.
How Formal Is It?
Fun Fact
The character '切' (cheol) is also used in words like '절대' (absolute) and '최저' (lowest), conveying a sense of finality or extreme degree. This contributes to the intensity conveyed by '절실하다'. The character '實' (sil) is in words like '사실' (fact) and '실현' (realization), reinforcing the idea of something being concrete and true.
Pronunciation Guide
- Pronouncing '절' as 'jeol' (like in 'jealous') instead of the softer 'cheol'.
- Mispronouncing the 'eo' vowel as 'o' or 'eu'.
- Not clearly articulating the 'shil' syllable.
- Omitting the aspiration in '하다' (hada), making it sound like 'ada'.
Difficulty Rating
This word is common in B1 and above. Understanding its nuances requires grasping the intensity of need or emotion, which might be challenging for beginners. Context is key to differentiating it from similar words.
What to Learn Next
Prerequisites
Learn Next
Advanced
Grammar to Know
Adjective as Predicate
The adjective '절실하다' often functions as the main predicate of a sentence. Example: '그는 도움이 절실했다.' (He desperately needed help.)
Adverbial Form: 절실히
The adverbial form '절실히' modifies verbs, intensifying the action. Example: '그녀는 성공을 절실히 바랐다.' (She desperately hoped for success.)
Using Nouns with '-이/가' + 절실하다
Abstract nouns or concepts often take the subject marker '-이/가' when described as '절실하다'. Example: '변화가 절실하다.' (Change is desperately needed.)
Using Nouns with '-을/를' + 절실히 + Verb
When using '절실히' with a verb, the object of the verb often takes the object marker '-을/를'. Example: '그는 진실을 절실히 원했다.' (He desperately wanted the truth.)
Connecting with '-기에' or '-어서'
To explain the reason for a desperate need: '시간이 없기에, 도움이 절실하다.' (Because there is no time, help is desperately needed.)
Examples by Level
나는 물이 필요해요.
I need water.
'필요하다' is used for general needs.
도움이 필요해요.
I need help.
'필요하다' is a basic verb for needing something.
이것은 좋아요.
This is good.
Simple adjective describing something positive.
나는 지금 가야 해요.
I have to go now.
Expressing an immediate action.
정말 피곤해요.
I'm really tired.
Describing a state of being.
밥이 필요해요.
I need food.
Basic necessity.
돈이 필요해요.
I need money.
Common need.
쉬고 싶어요.
I want to rest.
Expressing a desire.
그는 도움이 절실했다.
He desperately needed help.
'절실하다' indicates a strong, urgent need.
나는 기회가 절실하다.
I desperately need an opportunity.
'절실하다' used for abstract needs like opportunities.
그녀는 따뜻한 말이 절실했다.
She desperately needed kind words.
Expressing emotional needs with '절실하다'.
이것은 정말 필요해요.
This is really necessary.
'필요하다' is a common way to express need.
나는 지금 빨리 가야 해요.
I have to go quickly now.
Adding urgency with adverbs like '빨리'.
그는 성공을 간절히 바랐다.
He earnestly wished for success.
'간절히 바라다' expresses a fervent wish.
우리는 물이 정말 필요해요.
We really need water.
Emphasizing the need with '정말'.
나는 휴식이 필요해요.
I need a rest.
A common expression of need.
그는 생존을 위해 물이 절실했다.
He desperately needed water for survival.
'절실하다' is used for critical, life-or-death needs.
그녀는 변화가 절실했다.
She desperately needed change.
Applying '절실하다' to abstract concepts like change.
이 프로젝트는 성공이 절실하다.
This project desperately needs success.
Using '절실하다' in a professional or project context.
그는 진정한 친구가 절실했다.
He desperately needed a true friend.
Expressing deep emotional needs.
그녀의 꿈은 이루어지기를 절실히 바랐다.
She desperately hoped her dream would come true.
'절실히' adverbially modifies '바랐다' (hoped).
우리는 지금 당장 자금이 절실합니다.
We desperately need funds right now.
Formal usage of '절실하다' in a business context.
그는 진실이 절실했다.
He desperately needed the truth.
Using '절실하다' for abstract necessities like truth.
그녀는 새로운 기회가 절실했다.
She desperately needed a new opportunity.
'절실하다' for significant life changes.
그는 절박한 상황에서 벗어나기 위해 마지막 희망에 매달렸다.
In a desperate situation, he clung to his last hope.
Combining '절박한' (desperate situation) with the idea of a desperate need for hope.
인류는 기후 변화에 대한 시급한 해결책을 절실히 요구하고 있다.
Humanity is desperately demanding urgent solutions to climate change.
'절실히 요구하다' (desperately demand) and '시급한' (urgent).
그녀는 오랜 노력 끝에 마침내 자신의 재능을 인정받기를 절실히 원했다.
After long efforts, she desperately wanted to finally have her talent recognized.
'절실히 원하다' (desperately want) highlights a deep desire after hardship.
진정한 이해와 공감이 부족한 사회는 통합을 절실히 필요로 한다.
A society lacking true understanding and empathy desperately needs integration.
'절실히 필요로 하다' (desperately need) for societal issues.
그는 과거의 잘못을 만회하기 위해 다시 한번 기회가 절실했다.
He desperately needed one more chance to make up for past mistakes.
'기회가 절실했다' (opportunity was desperately needed).
이 위기 상황에서 신속한 결정이 절실히 요구된다.
In this crisis situation, swift decisions are desperately required.
'신속한 결정' (swift decision) and '절실히 요구된다' (is desperately required).
그녀는 잊혀진 기억 속에서 진실을 절실히 찾고 있었다.
She was desperately searching for the truth in forgotten memories.
'절실히 찾다' (desperately search) for abstract concepts.
안정적인 삶을 향한 그의 갈망은 그 누구보다 절실했다.
His yearning for a stable life was more desperate than anyone else's.
Comparing intensity of desire ('갈망') with '절실하다'.
국제 사회는 빈곤 퇴치를 위한 전례 없는 협력을 절실히 요구하고 있다.
The international community is desperately calling for unprecedented cooperation to eradicate poverty.
Formal language, '전례 없는 협력' (unprecedented cooperation).
그 예술가는 자신의 독창적인 비전을 세상에 알리기 위한 절실한 열망을 품고 있었다.
The artist harbored a desperate yearning to convey their unique vision to the world.
'절실한 열망' (desperate yearning) describes a deep-seated drive.
개인의 자유와 공동체의 안녕 사이의 균형을 맞추는 것은 현대 사회가 직면한 절실한 과제이다.
Balancing individual freedom and the well-being of the community is a pressing challenge facing modern society.
'절실한 과제' (pressing challenge) indicates a critical issue.
역사의 수많은 순간에, 인류는 더 나은 미래를 향한 희망을 절실히 붙잡아왔다.
At countless moments in history, humanity has desperately held onto hope for a better future.
'절실히 붙잡아왔다' (has desperately held onto) emphasizes persistence.
그는 자신의 존재 이유를 탐구하며 삶의 근원적인 의미를 절실히 갈망했다.
Exploring the reason for his existence, he desperately yearned for the fundamental meaning of life.
Using '절실히 갈망했다' (desperately yearned) for profound existential inquiry.
이처럼 복잡한 문제에 대한 해결책은 단순한 노력이 아니라, 창의적이고 근본적인 접근을 절실히 요구한다.
Solutions to such complex problems require not just simple effort, but a desperately needed creative and fundamental approach.
'근본적인 접근을 절실히 요구한다' (desperately requires a fundamental approach).
문화적 다양성을 존중하고 포용하는 것은 우리 사회의 지속적인 발전을 위해 절실한 덕목이다.
Respecting and embracing cultural diversity is a desperately needed virtue for the continuous development of our society.
'절실한 덕목' (desperately needed virtue) highlights its importance.
기술 발전의 속도를 따라잡기 위해서는 끊임없는 학습과 적응이 절실하다.
Continuous learning and adaptation are desperately needed to keep pace with the speed of technological advancement.
'절실하다' used for necessary actions in a rapidly changing world.
인류 문명의 지속 가능성은 환경 보호에 대한 우리 모두의 절실한 헌신을 요구한다.
The sustainability of human civilization demands our collective, desperate commitment to environmental protection.
Elevated language, '절실한 헌신' (desperate commitment) for a global cause.
그 철학자는 인간 조건의 복잡성을 해부하며 존재의 심오한 진실을 절실히 탐구했다.
The philosopher dissected the complexities of the human condition, desperately exploring the profound truths of existence.
'절실히 탐구했다' (desperately explored) for deep philosophical inquiry.
불확실한 미래 앞에서, 우리는 공동체의 회복력을 강화하기 위한 혁신적인 전략을 절실히 모색해야 한다.
In the face of an uncertain future, we must desperately seek innovative strategies to strengthen community resilience.
'절실히 모색해야 한다' (must desperately seek) for strategic action.
정치적 양극화가 심화되는 시대에, 우리는 대화와 타협을 통한 통합을 절실히 갈망한다.
In an era of deepening political polarization, we desperately yearn for integration through dialogue and compromise.
'절실히 갈망한다' (desperately yearn) for societal harmony.
예술은 종종 인간 정신의 가장 깊은 고뇌와 가장 절실한 소망을 표현하는 매개체가 된다.
Art often becomes a medium for expressing the deepest anguish and the most desperate hopes of the human spirit.
'가장 절실한 소망' (most desperate hopes) emphasizes extreme desire.
새로운 패러다임의 전환은 기존의 사고방식으로는 해결할 수 없는 문제들에 대한 근본적인 재고를 절실히 필요로 한다.
A shift to a new paradigm desperately requires a fundamental reconsideration of problems that cannot be solved by existing mindsets.
'근본적인 재고를 절실히 필요로 한다' (desperately requires a fundamental reconsideration).
자유와 정의라는 보편적 가치를 수호하기 위한 우리의 노력은 그 어느 때보다 절실하다.
Our efforts to uphold the universal values of freedom and justice are more desperate than ever.
'그 어느 때보다 절실하다' (more desperate than ever) emphasizes critical importance.
역사의 교훈을 망각하는 것은 미래 세대가 같은 오류를 반복할 위험을 절실히 증대시킨다.
Forgetting the lessons of history desperately increases the risk that future generations will repeat the same mistakes.
'절실히 증대시킨다' (desperately increases) the risk.
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
— To desperately need something.
그는 지금 당장 도움이 절실히 필요하다.
— To desperately hope for something.
그녀는 합격하기를 절실히 바랐다.
— A desperate situation.
그는 절실한 상황에 놓였다.
— A desperate heart or feeling.
그녀는 절실한 마음으로 기도했다.
— Desperate help.
그들은 절실한 도움을 요청했다.
— A desperate opportunity.
그에게는 절실한 기회였다.
— A desperate dream.
그녀는 이루지 못한 절실한 꿈이 있었다.
— A desperate demand.
그들은 변화를 절실히 요구했다.
— A desperate cry.
그의 외침은 절실했다.
— Desperate effort.
그는 절실한 노력으로 목표를 달성했다.
Often Confused With
'간절하다' also implies strong desire but focuses more on earnestness and sincerity, like a heartfelt wish. '절실하다' emphasizes critical necessity or desperation. You might have a '간절한' wish for a good grade, but a '절실한' need for a job to survive.
'필요하다' is the general word for 'need'. '절실하다' is much stronger, indicating a desperate or critical need, not just a simple requirement. It adds a layer of urgency and intensity.
'절박하다' implies a situation of extreme difficulty or being cornered, leading to desperation. '절실하다' focuses more on the profound need or intense desire itself, rather than the feeling of being trapped.
Idioms & Expressions
— To risk one's life or to put everything on the line; to make a desperate effort for survival or success.
그는 이 경기에서 사활을 걸었다. (He risked everything in this match.)
formal— To risk one's life; a very desperate situation where one's life is at stake.
그는 동료를 구하기 위해 목숨을 걸었다. (He risked his life to save his colleague.)
informal— To want to disappear out of shame or embarrassment; implies a desperate desire to escape a situation.
그 실수 후에 나는 쥐구멍이라도 들어가고 싶었다. (After that mistake, I wanted to disappear into a mouse hole.)
informal— To pass through a needle's eye; implies an extremely difficult task or a slim chance of success, often requiring desperate measures.
합격률이 너무 낮아서 바늘 구멍 통과하기였다. (The pass rate was so low it was like passing through a needle's eye.)
neutral— To beat the ground and regret; to regret something deeply and desperately after it's too late.
그 기회를 놓치고 땅을 치고 후회했다. (Missing that opportunity, I beat the ground and regretted it.)
neutral— Even if the sky falls, there is a way out; implies that even in the most desperate situations, there is always a sliver of hope or a solution.
아무리 힘들어도 하늘이 무너져도 솟아날 구멍이 있다고 믿어야 해. (No matter how hard it is, you must believe that even if the sky falls, there is a way out.)
proverbial— To shed tears of blood; to suffer extreme and desperate pain or sorrow.
그는 억울한 누명 때문에 피눈물을 흘렸다. (He shed tears of blood due to the unjust accusation.)
figurative— To do something with all one's might, as if one's life depends on it; a desperate struggle.
그는 죽기 살기로 공부해서 시험에 합격했다. (He studied with all his might and passed the exam.)
informal— To take a step forward from the height of a hundred-foot pole; to take a decisive, often desperate, step in a critical situation.
그는 백척간두 진일보의 자세로 위기를 극복했다. (He overcame the crisis with the attitude of taking a decisive step from the height of a hundred-foot pole.)
formal, philosophical— To have one's spine bent; to work extremely hard, often to the point of desperation, to support one's family.
그는 자식들을 위해 등골이 휘도록 일했다. (He worked his spine to the bone for his children.)
idiomaticEasily Confused
Both express strong desire and can be used in contexts of wanting something deeply.
'간절하다' emphasizes earnestness, sincerity, and heartfelt wishing. It's like a fervent prayer. '절실하다' emphasizes the critical necessity or desperation of the need. It's about something being vital or profoundly lacking.
그는 합격을 간절히 바랐다. (He earnestly wished to pass - focused on the sincerity of his wish.) vs. 그는 합격이 절실했다. (Passing was desperately important to him - focused on the critical need for passing, perhaps due to consequences.)
Both indicate a need for something.
'필요하다' is the standard, neutral verb for 'to need'. It can range from a slight want to a significant requirement. '절실하다' is an adjective that denotes an extreme, urgent, or desperate need. It's a far more intense feeling than a simple '필요'.
나는 물이 필요하다. (I need water - a general statement.) vs. 나는 생존을 위해 물이 절실하다. (I desperately need water for survival - emphasizes the critical, life-saving necessity.)
Both words convey a sense of urgency and desperation.
'절박하다' often describes a situation where one feels cornered, in extreme difficulty, or facing imminent danger, leading to a desperate state. '절실하다' focuses more on the intensity of the need or desire itself, regardless of whether the situation is overtly dangerous. It's the profoundness of the need or feeling.
그는 절박한 상황에서 탈출구를 찾았다. (He found an escape route in a desperate situation.) vs. 그는 진정한 친구가 절실했다. (He desperately needed a true friend - the need for friendship is profound and essential, not necessarily due to immediate danger.)
Both relate to urgency.
'시급하다' (often used as '시급히') specifically refers to urgency in terms of time – something that needs immediate attention or action. '절실하다' refers to the depth of need or the intensity of desire, which might or might not be time-sensitive. A problem can be both '시급하다' and '절실하다'.
이 문제는 시급히 해결해야 한다. (This problem must be solved urgently - time is the key factor.) vs. 그의 마음은 위로가 절실했다. (His heart desperately needed comfort - the depth of emotional need is key.)
Both express a strong desire.
'갈망하다' is a verb meaning 'to yearn for' or 'to crave', describing the act of intensely desiring something, often abstract or elusive. '절실하다' is an adjective describing the state of being desperately needed or felt. One might '갈망하다' peace, but the peace itself might be '절실하다' for a war-torn region.
그녀는 자유를 갈망했다. (She yearned for freedom - the action of desiring.) vs. 그녀에게 자유는 절실했다. (Freedom was desperately needed by her - the state of the need for freedom.)
Sentence Patterns
Noun + 이/가 + 절실하다.
나는 도움이 절실하다.
Noun + 이/가 + 절실하다.
그녀는 변화가 절실했다.
Noun + 을/를 + 절실히 + Verb.
그녀는 꿈을 절실히 바랐다.
절실한 + Noun.
그는 절실한 기회를 잡고 싶었다.
Adverbial form + Verb.
그는 진실을 절실히 원했다.
Noun + 이/가 + 절실하다 (Formal context).
이 위기 상황에서는 신속한 대응이 절실합니다.
Noun + 이/가 + 절실하다 (Abstract concept).
우리 사회는 진정한 통합을 절실히 필요로 한다.
Complex sentence with '절실히' modifying a verb.
인류는 지속 가능한 미래를 위해 환경 보호에 대한 절실한 헌신을 요구받고 있다.
Word Family
Nouns
Adjectives
Related
How to Use It
Common, especially in B1+ levels.
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Using '절실하다' for minor needs.
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Use '필요하다' or '원하다' for less intense needs.
'절실하다' implies a desperate or critical need. Using it for trivial wants can sound overly dramatic and diminish its impact. For example, saying '나는 아이스크림이 절실하다' (I desperately need ice cream) is usually too strong unless there's a very specific, dire reason.
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Confusing with '간절하다' in terms of earnestness vs. necessity.
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Use '간절하다' for sincere wishes and prayers; use '절실하다' for critical needs or profound feelings.
'간절하다' emphasizes the sincerity and earnestness of a wish, like a heartfelt plea. '절실하다' emphasizes the critical necessity or the profound depth of a feeling. While related, '절실하다' carries a stronger sense of vital importance or desperation.
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Incorrect grammatical structure.
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Ensure '절실하다' functions as an adjective predicate or is used with the adverb '절실히' correctly.
As an adjective, '절실하다' typically appears at the end of a sentence (e.g., 'X가 절실하다'). The adverbial form '절실히' modifies verbs (e.g., 'X를 절실히 원하다'). Mistakes can occur when trying to use it as a noun or in incorrect sentence patterns.
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Overlapping with '절박하다' when the situation isn't dire.
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Use '절박하다' for situations of extreme difficulty or danger; use '절실하다' for profound needs or intense feelings.
'절박하다' often implies being in a tight spot or facing imminent danger. '절실하다' focuses on the depth of need or intensity of emotion itself, which may or may not arise from a dangerous situation. Not every desperate feeling comes from a dire predicament.
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Using '절실하다' when '시급하다' (urgent in time) is more appropriate.
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Use '시급하다' for time-sensitive matters; use '절실하다' for the depth of need or intensity of feeling.
'시급하다' means urgent in terms of time—something that needs immediate attention. '절실하다' is about the critical necessity or profound intensity of a need or feeling. A task might be '시급하다', but the need for a solution could be '절실하다'.
Tips
Emphasize Intensity
Use '절실하다' when you want to convey a higher degree of need or emotion than usual. It's for situations that are critical, vital, or deeply felt, not just mildly important.
Adjective Function
Remember that '절실하다' is an adjective. It typically functions as the predicate of a sentence (e.g., 'X가 절실하다') or can be modified by the adverb '절실히' (e.g., 'X를 절실히 원하다').
Situational Awareness
Consider the context. '절실하다' is often found in news reports about crises, personal stories of struggle, or expressions of deep longing. It adds emotional weight and seriousness.
Distinguish from Similar Words
Be mindful of the subtle differences between '절실하다', '간절하다', '필요하다', and '절박하다'. Choose the word that best captures the specific nuance of urgency, sincerity, necessity, or desperation.
Connect to 'Real' and 'Urgent'
Remember the Hanja roots: '切' (urgent) and '實' (real). This helps associate the word with a need that is both profoundly real and critically urgent.
Sentence Building
Practice creating sentences using '절실하다' for various scenarios—personal needs, abstract desires, societal issues. This will help internalize its usage and impact.
Active Listening
When listening to Korean media, pay attention to when and how '절실하다' is used. Notice the surrounding words and the overall tone to understand its contextual meaning better.
Collocations
Learn common collocations like '도움이 절실하다' (desperately need help) or '기회가 절실하다' (desperately need an opportunity). These phrases are frequently used and will aid comprehension.
Degree of Intensity
'절실하다' signifies a high degree of intensity. Avoid using it for trivial matters, as it can sound overly dramatic. Reserve it for situations where the need or feeling is truly profound.
Emotional Expression
In Korean culture, expressing deep emotions sincerely is valued. '절실하다' is a tool for conveying such genuine and intense feelings or needs effectively.
Memorize It
Mnemonic
Imagine a 'chop' (切) that is 'real' (實). When you need something desperately, it feels like a sharp, real pain or a tangible, undeniable need. Think of a 'real chop' of hunger that you desperately need to satisfy.
Visual Association
Picture a person with their hand clasped tightly over their heart, eyes closed in intense longing or pleading. The intensity of their grip and expression conveys '절실하다'. Alternatively, visualize a tiny sprout desperately pushing through cracked, dry earth towards a single drop of rain.
Word Web
Challenge
Try to describe five things you desperately need in your life right now, using '절실하다' in your sentences. For example, 'I desperately need more sleep.' (나는 잠이 절실하다.)
Word Origin
The word '절실하다' originates from the Hanja characters '切實' (cheolsil). '切' (cheol) means 'to cut', 'to be urgent', or 'to be earnest', while '實' (sil) means 'real', 'true', or 'substantial'.
Original meaning: The original meaning was 'truly real' or 'tangible', emphasizing something that is genuinely felt or experienced, not abstract or imagined. This evolved to describe a need or feeling that is so real and profound it feels tangible and demands attention.
Sino-Korean (derived from Hanja)Cultural Context
While '절실하다' can describe a desperate situation, it's generally used to convey the intensity of need or emotion rather than to express distress in a way that might be considered overly dramatic or attention-seeking, unless the context truly warrants it. It's a sincere expression of profound requirement or feeling.
In English, we might use phrases like 'desperately need', 'urgently require', 'have a dire need for', or 'yearn for' to convey similar meanings. The Korean word '절실하다' encapsulates these nuances in a single adjective.
Practice in Real Life
Real-World Contexts
Expressing urgent personal needs (e.g., financial, emotional, physical).
- 도움이 절실하다
- 돈이 절실하다
- 휴식이 절실하다
- 이해가 절실하다
Discussing critical situations or challenges.
- 변화가 절실하다
- 해결책이 절실하다
- 안정이 절실하다
- 생존이 절실하다
Talking about strong desires or aspirations.
- 성공이 절실하다
- 기회가 절실하다
- 사랑이 절실하다
- 꿈이 절실하다
Formal appeals or statements of necessity.
- 자금이 절실하다
- 협력이 절실하다
- 관심이 절실하다
- 지원이 절실하다
Describing intense emotional states.
- 희망이 절실하다
- 용서가 절실하다
- 진실이 절실하다
- 평화가 절실하다
Conversation Starters
"What is something you desperately need in your life right now?"
"Can you think of a time when you felt a desperate need for something?"
"How would you describe a situation that is truly pressing or urgent?"
"What are some things that people in your country desperately hope for?"
"When do you think it's appropriate to use a strong word like '절실하다'?"
Journal Prompts
Describe a personal goal that you feel a desperate need to achieve. What steps are you taking?
Reflect on a time when you received help that was desperately needed. How did it impact you?
Write about a societal issue that you believe requires urgent attention and action. Why is it so critical?
Imagine a character in a story who is facing a desperate situation. What are their most pressing needs?
What does 'desperation' mean to you? How does the word '절실하다' capture this feeling?
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questionsBoth words express strong desire. '간절하다' focuses on earnestness, sincerity, and a heartfelt wish, like a fervent prayer. '절실하다' emphasizes the critical necessity or desperation of the need. For example, you might have a '간절한' wish for a good grade, but a '절실한' need for a job to survive. '절실하다' implies a more profound lack or a more urgent requirement.
Not necessarily. While '절실하다' often describes desperate needs or difficult situations, it can also be used to describe very strong positive desires or aspirations. For example, someone might have a '절실한' desire to achieve a lifelong dream. The key is the intensity of the feeling or need, not just its negative connotation.
The adverb '절실히' modifies verbs, intensifying the action or state. You use it to show that an action is being done with great urgency, desperation, or intensity. For example: '그녀는 성공을 절실히 바랐다.' (She desperately hoped for success.) Here, '절실히' intensifies the verb '바랐다' (hoped).
Yes, absolutely. It's very commonly used for physical needs that are critical. For instance, '생존을 위해 물이 절실하다.' (Water is desperately needed for survival.) or '그는 휴식이 절실했다.' (He desperately needed rest.) It conveys the seriousness of the physical requirement.
'절실하다' can be used in both formal and informal contexts. In informal settings, it conveys a strong personal feeling or need. In formal settings, like news reports or official statements, it emphasizes the critical nature and urgency of a situation or requirement.
'필요하다' is the general verb for 'to need'. It can be used for anything from a simple requirement to a significant one. '절실하다' is an adjective that denotes an extreme, urgent, or desperate need. It's a much stronger word, implying that something is vital or critically lacking.
Yes, it's very common to use '절실하다' with abstract concepts like hope, love, truth, understanding, or change. For example: '그는 희망이 절실했다.' (He desperately needed hope.) or '우리 사회는 변화가 절실하다.' (Our society desperately needs change.)
Think of the Hanja characters: '切' (cheol - cut, urgent) and '實' (sil - real, true). It implies a need that is 'truly real' and so urgent it feels like a sharp cut or a pressing reality. Imagine a 'sharp, real' pain of needing something.
Some common phrases include '도움이 절실하다' (desperately need help), '기회가 절실하다' (desperately need an opportunity), '성공이 절실하다' (desperately need success), and '절실히 필요하다' (desperately need).
'급하다' means urgent in terms of time – something that needs immediate attention. '절실하다' is about the depth of need or the intensity of desire. You might have a '급한' task, but a '절실한' need for emotional support.
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Summary
The Korean adjective '절실하다' signifies a state of extreme urgency or desperate need, or a profoundly intense emotion. It's used when something is critically important, vital, or deeply felt, conveying a sense of desperation or overwhelming necessity.
- Describes an urgent, pressing, or desperate need or strong feeling.
- Conveys a sense of critical necessity or intense emotion.
- Used when something is vitally important or deeply felt.
- Implies a level of desperation or profound requirement.
Emphasize Intensity
Use '절실하다' when you want to convey a higher degree of need or emotion than usual. It's for situations that are critical, vital, or deeply felt, not just mildly important.
Adjective Function
Remember that '절실하다' is an adjective. It typically functions as the predicate of a sentence (e.g., 'X가 절실하다') or can be modified by the adverb '절실히' (e.g., 'X를 절실히 원하다').
Situational Awareness
Consider the context. '절실하다' is often found in news reports about crises, personal stories of struggle, or expressions of deep longing. It adds emotional weight and seriousness.
Distinguish from Similar Words
Be mindful of the subtle differences between '절실하다', '간절하다', '필요하다', and '절박하다'. Choose the word that best captures the specific nuance of urgency, sincerity, necessity, or desperation.
Example
환경 보호를 위한 정부의 대책이 절실한 시점입니다.
Related Content
More society words
수용하다
B2To accept, take in, or accommodate ideas, opinions, people, or external influences.
성인
A1An adult; a person who is fully grown or developed.
선진화
B1The process of making something advanced or modernized to reach the level of developed nations. It often refers to systems, technology, or social consciousness.
가중되다
B2To be increased or aggravated, especially in terms of pressure, burden, or negative circumstances.
지향
B2The act of aiming for a certain direction, goal, or ideal state.
소외
B2The state of being isolated or excluded from a group or society; alienation.
또한
A1Also; in addition; moreover.
대안
B2A plan, proposal, or option that can replace an existing one, usually to solve a problem. It is a key word in IELTS Task 2 for suggesting solutions.
비록
A1Although; even though.
도래
B1The arrival or beginning of a significant period, event, or era. It often describes the start of a new technology-driven age.
