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B1 noun 12 min read

염려

yeomryeo

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips 염려 in 30 Seconds

Explanation 염려 in your Level:

At the A1 level, you usually learn the word '걱정' (geok-jeong) first because it is the simplest way to say 'worry.' However, you might hear '염려' in very polite settings, like when a teacher says '염려 마세요' (Don't worry). At this stage, you don't need to use '염려' yourself in every sentence. Just remember that it is a polite version of '걱정.' You might see it in simple signs or hear it in polite greetings. It is a noun, but it can become a verb by adding '하다' (to do). So, '염려하다' means 'to worry.' If someone says '염려 마세요,' they are telling you 'Please don't worry' in a very nice and respectful way. Think of it as a 'polite worry.'

At the A2 level, you should begin to recognize the difference between '걱정' and '염려.' You will see '염려' more often in textbooks and formal announcements. You should know the basic structure: '염려하다' (to worry) and '염려 마세요' (don't worry). You might also encounter the phrase '염려가 되다,' which means 'to be worried.' For example, '날씨가 염려돼요' (I am worried about the weather). At this level, using '염려' when speaking to your teacher or an older person will make you sound more polite and respectful. It shows you are learning the nuances of Korean social levels. You should also start noticing it in formal emails or letters.

At the B1 level, you are expected to use '염려' in appropriate contexts. You should understand that '염려' is more formal than '걱정' and is often used when expressing concern for others. You should be comfortable with the pattern '~할 염려가 있다' (there is a concern/risk that...). This is common in news and formal reports. For example, '비가 올 염려가 있어요' (There is a risk of rain). You should also know how to use it in an apology: '염려를 끼쳐 드려 죄송합니다' (I am sorry for causing you concern). This is a very important social phrase in Korea. You are moving beyond simple emotions to social etiquette.

At the B2 level, you should master the subtle differences between '염려,' '걱정,' and '우려.' You should use '염려' naturally in formal writing and professional conversations. You should understand that '염려' has a literary and thoughtful nuance. You can use it to describe complex social situations, such as 'public concern' (대중의 염려). You should also be able to use it in its various grammatical forms, including as a modifier (e.g., '염려스러운 눈빛' - a worried look). At this level, you should also recognize the honorific form '심려' and know when to use it instead of '염려' to show maximum respect to a superior or elder during an apology.

At the C1 level, you should have a deep understanding of the Hanja roots (念慮) and how they contribute to the word's meaning of 'deeply pondering potential problems.' You should be able to use '염려' in academic essays or high-level business negotiations to express nuanced degrees of concern. You should understand its use in classical literature and religious texts, where it often carries philosophical weight. You can distinguish between '염려' (personal/polite concern) and '우려' (official/objective concern) with ease. Your usage should reflect a sophisticated grasp of Korean culture, where expressing '염려' is an essential part of maintaining harmonious relationships and showing 'Jeong' (attachment).

At the C2 level, you use '염려' with the same precision as a native speaker. You understand its historical evolution and its place among other synonyms like '근심,' '시름,' and '고뇌.' You can use '염려' to discuss abstract concepts, such as existential anxiety or national security, with appropriate tone and register. You are aware of how '염려' is used in different dialects or older forms of Korean literature. Your ability to use this word in complex grammatical constructions and idiomatic expressions is flawless. You can also critique the use of '염려' in media, noting when it is used to manipulate public opinion or when it is used to show genuine empathy.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

염려 in 30 Seconds

염려 is a formal and polite noun meaning 'worry' or 'concern,' originating from Hanja characters meaning 'pondering thoughts.'
It is commonly used as '염려하다' (to worry) or '염려되다' (to be worried) in professional and literary contexts.
The phrase '염려 마세요' is a very polite way to tell someone 'Don't worry,' showing respect for their concern.
In formal usage, it can also mean the 'risk' or 'danger' of something negative happening, such as 'risk of rain.'

The Korean noun 염려 (Yeom-ryeo) is a sophisticated and nuanced term that translates primarily to 'worry,' 'concern,' or 'anxiety.' While it shares a semantic field with the more common word 걱정 (geok-jeong), 염려 carries a slightly more formal, literary, and sometimes deeply personal weight. It originates from the Hanja characters 念 (념 - thought/mind) and 慮 (려 - consideration/pondering). Together, these characters suggest a state where one's mind is occupied with deep consideration or anticipation of potential problems. This isn't just a fleeting feeling; it is an active state of thinking about the well-being of others or the outcome of a situation. In Korean society, expressing 염려 is often a way to show care and politeness. When you tell someone '염려 마세요' (Don't worry), you are acknowledging their concern for you while reassuring them. It is frequently used in professional settings, formal letters, and religious contexts to express a high level of respect and sincerity toward the person you are addressing.

Etymological Nuance: The character 念 (념) depicts the heart (心) under the present (今), implying what is currently on one's mind. The character 慮 (려) involves the tiger (虍) and the heart (心), suggesting a mind that is as cautious and alert as a tiger tracking its surroundings. Thus, 염려 is a 'watchful mind' that anticipates future difficulties.

부모님은 항상 자식의 건강을 염려하신다. (Parents always worry about their children's health.)

The word is also heavily utilized in news reporting and academic writing. For instance, when a government expresses concern over economic stability, they use 우려 (u-ryeo) or 염려 rather than the colloquial '걱정.' This elevates the tone and indicates that the concern is based on careful analysis rather than just a gut feeling. Furthermore, in spiritual or philosophical texts, 염려 often refers to the worldly anxieties that one must overcome to find inner peace. It encompasses the psychological burden of the 'what-ifs' in life. Understanding this word helps learners navigate the social hierarchy of Korean speech, as it allows for a more refined expression of empathy. Whether you are apologizing for causing someone worry or reassuring a supervisor that a project is on track, using 염려 demonstrates a sophisticated grasp of Korean honorifics and social etiquette. It is not just about the feeling of being worried; it is about the social performance of expressing that worry in a way that is culturally appropriate and respectful.

Social Context: In Korean culture, the phrase '염려를 끼쳐 드려 죄송합니다' (I am sorry for causing you concern) is a standard apology when one's actions, even unintentional ones like falling ill, have made others worry. It reflects a collectivist mindset where one's state affects the emotional well-being of the group.

많은 시민들이 경제 침체를 염려하고 있습니다. (Many citizens are concerned about the economic downturn.)

In summary, while '걱정' is your everyday tool, '염려' is your professional and formal instrument. It bridges the gap between simple emotion and respectful social interaction. It is a word that looks forward into the future with a sense of responsibility. When you hear this word, pay attention to who is speaking and why; it often signals that the topic is of significant importance or that the speaker is trying to maintain a high level of decorum. It is one of those words that, once mastered, truly makes your Korean sound 'advanced' and 'educated' to native speakers.

Using 염려 correctly requires an understanding of its grammatical partners. As a noun, it often functions with the verbs 하다 (to do), 되다 (to become/be), and 끼치다 (to cause/inflict). The most common form is the verb 염려하다, which is the active act of worrying. For example, '그는 건강을 염려한다' (He worries about his health). Here, the object of worry is marked with the particle ~을/를. Conversely, 염려가 되다 is used when the worry arises naturally or passively. If you say '시험 결과가 염려된다', it implies that the test results are causing you to feel worried, rather than you actively choosing to sit and worry about them. This distinction is subtle but important for sounding natural.

Verb Conjugations: 염려하다 (Active): To worry about something.
염려되다 (Passive/State): To be worried/concerning.
염려를 끼치다 (Causative): To cause someone else to worry.

저의 실수로 심려와 염려를 끼쳐 드려 대단히 죄송합니다. (I am very sorry for causing you anxiety and concern due to my mistake.)

Another frequent construction involves the phrase ~할 염려가 있다, which translates to 'there is a concern/risk that [something might happen].' This is a common way to express potential negative outcomes in a formal or objective manner. For example, '비가 올 염려가 있으니 우산을 챙기세요' (There is a risk of rain, so take an umbrella). In this context, 염려 acts as a synonym for 우려 (u-ryeo) or 가능성 (ga-neung-seong - possibility) of something bad. It is widely used in weather reports, health warnings, and safety instructions. Note that you would rarely use '걱정' in this specific grammatical pattern in formal writing; '염려' or '우려' is much more appropriate. Using the noun as a modifier is also possible, such as in '염려의 목소리' (voices of concern), which you might see in a newspaper headline discussing public reaction to a new policy.

Common Collocations: 염려를 덜다 (To relieve worry).
염려가 앞서다 (Worry comes first/To be overly concerned).
염려 속에 (Amidst concerns).

태풍으로 인해 인명 피해가 발생할 염려가 있습니다. (There is a concern that casualties may occur due to the typhoon.)

When speaking to someone of higher status, you might use the honorific noun 심려 (Sim-ryeo) instead of 염려, especially when apologizing. While 염려 is already polite, 심려 is even more formal and is almost exclusively used in phrases like '심려를 끼쳐 드려 죄송합니다.' However, for general 'worrying' about a situation, 염려 remains the standard B1/B2 level choice. Mastering the shift between '걱정' for your friends and '염려' for your boss or in your writing will significantly improve your perceived fluency and cultural competence.

You will encounter 염려 in a variety of real-world contexts that range from the deeply personal to the broadly public. In Korean dramas (K-Dramas), especially those involving family dynamics or corporate intrigue, you will hear characters use '염려' when speaking to elders or superiors. A daughter might say to her elderly father, '제 걱정은 마시고 아버지 건강이나 염려하세요' (Don't worry about me, just be concerned about your own health). Here, the switch from '걱정' (for the daughter) to '염려' (for the father's health) shows a subtle shift in respect. In a corporate setting, a manager might say, '프로젝트 지연에 대한 염려가 큽니다' (There is great concern about the project delay), signaling a serious tone that '걱정' wouldn't quite capture.

Media Usage: News anchors frequently use '염려' when discussing public health, environmental issues, or international relations. It sounds objective and measured. For example: '전문가들은 이번 정책이 물가 상승을 초래할까 염려하고 있습니다' (Experts are concerned that this policy might cause inflation).

방송에서는 종종 '시청자 여러분, 염려하지 마십시오'라는 표현을 사용합니다. (On broadcasts, the expression 'Dear viewers, please do not worry' is often used.)

In everyday life, you might see '염려' on warning signs or in product manuals. A sign near a construction site might read, '낙석의 염려가 있으니 주의하십시오' (Caution: risk of falling rocks). A medication bottle might warn of the '부작용의 염려' (concern/risk of side effects). In these instances, '염려' functions as a formal warning of a potential negative event. Furthermore, in the world of Korean literature and poetry, '염려' is used to describe a deep, lingering sort of anxiety—the kind that keeps one awake at night pondering the fate of a loved one or the nation. It is a word that resonates with the Korean concept of '정' (Jeong), as worrying about someone is seen as a profound expression of attachment and love.

Customer Service: When a flight is delayed or a service is interrupted, the announcement will often start with: '이용에 불편을 드려 염려를 끼쳐 드린 점 사과드립니다' (We apologize for causing concern and inconvenience in your use of our service).

의사 선생님이 환자에게 '너무 염려하지 마세요, 수술은 잘 될 겁니다'라고 위로했다. (The doctor comforted the patient, saying, 'Don't worry too much, the surgery will go well.')

Finally, in the digital age, you might see '염려' in formal emails or KakaoTalk messages from teachers, bosses, or older relatives. If you haven't responded to a message for a long time, an older person might send a message like, '무슨 일이 있는지 염려가 되어 연락했다' (I am contacting you because I was worried if something happened). Using '염려' here makes their inquiry sound caring and dignified rather than intrusive or nagging. It conveys a sense of 'I am thinking of you with a heavy heart,' which is a very powerful sentiment in Korean social interaction.

One of the most frequent mistakes learners make is using 염려 in contexts that are too casual or among close friends of the same age. If you are talking to your best friend about a minor issue, like being late for a movie, saying '염려하지 마' sounds unnaturally stiff and almost robotic. In such cases, '걱정하지 마' is much more appropriate. Think of '염려' as being similar to the difference between 'I am concerned' and 'I am worried' in English. You wouldn't usually tell a close friend, 'I am deeply concerned about your choice of ice cream flavor.' Similarly, '염려' requires a certain level of situational gravity or social distance to feel natural.

Mistake: Over-Formality: Using '염려' with younger siblings or close friends can make you sound like you are reading from a textbook. Stick to '걱정' for daily, informal life.

(Incorrect) 친구야, 시험 잘 못 볼까 봐 염려돼.
(Correct) 친구야, 시험 잘 못 볼까 봐 걱정돼.

Another common error is related to the particles. Learners often forget that 염려가 되다 (to be worried) and 염려를 하다 (to worry) take different particles. Using '염려를 되다' is a grammatical error because '되다' is an intransitive verb in this context and requires the subject marker ~가/이. Additionally, learners sometimes confuse 염려 with 고민 (go-min). While both involve thinking, '고민' specifically refers to agonizing over a decision or a problem you need to solve (e.g., 'What should I wear?'). '염려' is more about the emotional state of anxiety regarding a future outcome or someone else's safety. You '고민' about which car to buy, but you '염려' that the car might break down.

Mistake: Particle Confusion: Remember: [Noun] + 이/가 + 염려되다.
[Noun] + 을/를 + 염려하다.
Mixing these up is a sign of an intermediate learner who hasn't quite mastered verb patterns.

그는 가족의 안위를 염려하고 있다. (He is worrying about his family's safety - Correct use of '를' with '하다').

Finally, be careful with the nuance of 'reassurance.' If someone tells you '염려 마세요,' they are being polite. If you respond with '염려하세요' (Please worry), it sounds incredibly strange or even sarcastic. If you want to tell someone to be careful or to pay attention to something, use '주의하세요' (Be careful) or '조심하세요'. '염려' is generally something you want to *remove* or *express*, not something you command someone to do in a positive sense. Avoid using it as a direct command unless you are a religious leader or a very senior figure giving life advice.

Korean has a rich vocabulary for 'worry,' and choosing the right one depends entirely on the level of formality and the specific nature of the anxiety. The most common alternative to 염려 is 걱정. As discussed, 걱정 is the all-purpose word for everyday life. It can be used as a noun or a verb (걱정하다). While 염려 is often used for others, 걱정 is used equally for oneself and others. Another important word is 우려 (U-ryeo). This is even more formal than 염려 and is typically found in news reports, official government statements, or academic papers. 우려 suggests a concern based on evidence or a logical prediction of a negative outcome, whereas 염려 can be more emotional.

걱정 vs. 염려 vs. 우려: 걱정: Informal/Neutral, daily worries.
염려: Formal/Polite, concern for others, literary.
우려: Highly Formal/Official, societal or large-scale risks.

정부는 인플레이션 가능성에 대해 깊은 우려를 표명했다. (The government expressed deep concern over the possibility of inflation.)

For situations where you are 'agonizing' over a choice, use 고민 (Go-min). If you are choosing between two job offers, you are having a 고민. If you are worried the new job might be too hard, that is 염려 or 걱정. If you feel a general sense of unease or fear about the future, 불안 (Bul-an) is the correct term. 불안 translates to 'anxiety' or 'instability' and is more about the psychological state of not feeling safe or secure. Lastly, 심려 (Sim-ryeo) is the ultra-polite version of 염려, used almost exclusively when apologizing to someone much higher in rank (e.g., '심려를 끼쳐 드려 죄송합니다').

Quick Comparison: 고민: Agony over a choice/problem.
불안: General anxiety/unease.
심려: Honorific concern (used in apologies).

내일 면접 때문에 마음이 너무 불안해요. (I feel very anxious because of the interview tomorrow.)

In professional writing, you might also see 고심 (Go-sim), which means 'deep deliberation' or 'painstaking thought.' While 염려 is about worry, 고심 is about the hard work of thinking through a difficult problem. For example, '정부는 오랜 고심 끝에 새로운 법안을 발표했다' (The government announced a new bill after much deep deliberation). Understanding these distinctions will allow you to describe your mental state with precision and grace in any Korean social context.

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

The character 慮 (려) actually contains the radical for 'tiger,' suggesting that the original sense of 'worry' was as intense and alert as a tiger watching its prey or environment.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /jʌm.ɾjʌ/

US /jʌm.rjʌ/

The stress is equal on both syllables, as is typical in Korean, though the first syllable might be slightly elongated in formal speech.

Rhymes With

음료 (drink) 사료 (feed/consideration) 무료 (free) 재료 (material) 종료 (end) 동료 (colleague) 조료 (seasoning) 도료 (paint)

Common Errors

Pronouncing 'ryeo' as 'ryo' or 'reo'.
Making the 'm' in 'yeom' too long like 'yeommmm'.
Using a hard English 'R' instead of the Korean flap 'ㄹ'.
Confusing the pronunciation with '음료' (drink).
Dropping the 'y' sound in 'ryeo' making it sound like 'reo'.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 3/5

Common in texts but requires understanding Hanja nuance.

Writing 4/5

Choosing between '걱정' and '염려' is a hallmark of an advanced learner.

Speaking 3/5

Pronunciation is straightforward, but register usage is tricky.

Listening 2/5

Easily recognized in formal announcements and dramas.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

걱정 하다 마음 생각 되다

Learn Next

우려 심려 근심 불안 고민

Advanced

기우 노심초사 전전반측 불식시키다 고조되다

Grammar to Know

Noun + 을/를 + 염려하다

건강을 염려하다.

Noun + 이/가 + 염려되다

사고가 염려되다.

V + (으)ㄹ 염려가 있다

넘어질 염려가 있다.

V + (으)ㄹ까 봐 (염려하다)

늦을까 봐 염려했다.

염려 + 마세요 (Imperative)

너무 염려 마세요.

Examples by Level

염려 마세요.

Don't worry.

Imperative form of 염려하다.

선생님이 저를 염려해요.

The teacher worries about me.

Object + 을/를 + 염려하다.

엄마, 너무 염려하지 마세요.

Mom, please don't worry too much.

Negative imperative ~지 마세요.

그 일은 염려 없어요.

There is no worry about that matter.

염려 + 없다 (to not have).

제 건강은 염려 마세요.

Don't worry about my health.

Topic marker ~은/는 used for emphasis.

친구의 염려가 고마워요.

I'm thankful for my friend's concern.

Noun + 가 (subject marker).

염려해 주셔서 감사합니다.

Thank you for worrying (caring) about me.

~아/어 주다 (doing something for someone).

그는 늘 염려가 많아요.

He always has many worries.

염려 + 가 + 많다 (to have many).

시험 결과가 염려됩니다.

I am worried about the test results.

염려되다 (passive/state form).

내일 날씨가 염려되네요.

I'm worried about tomorrow's weather.

~네(요) ending for expressing realization.

부모님께 염려를 끼쳤어요.

I caused my parents to worry.

염려를 끼치다 (to cause worry).

너무 염려하실 필요 없어요.

You don't need to worry too much.

~을 필요 없다 (no need to).

그의 안전이 염려스러워요.

His safety is concerning.

염려스럽다 (adjective form).

혼자 여행하는 게 염려돼요?

Are you worried about traveling alone?

~는 것 (nominalization).

염려 덕분에 잘 지내고 있습니다.

Thanks to your concern, I am doing well.

덕분에 (thanks to).

작은 일에 너무 염려하지 마라.

Don't worry too much about small things.

Plain style imperative ~지 마라.

비가 올 염려가 있으니 우산을 가져가세요.

There is a risk of rain, so take an umbrella.

~할 염려가 있다 (there is a risk/concern that...).

늦을까 봐 염려되어 일찍 출발했습니다.

I was worried I might be late, so I left early.

~을까 봐 (for fear that...).

그 소식은 많은 사람들에게 염려를 주었다.

That news gave many people cause for concern.

염려를 주다 (to give/cause concern).

염려했던 대로 사고가 발생했습니다.

As I had worried, an accident occurred.

~던 대로 (as one had been doing/thinking).

주변의 염려에도 불구하고 그는 도전을 멈추지 않았다.

Despite the concerns of those around him, he didn't stop challenging himself.

~에도 불구하고 (despite).

아이의 성적이 떨어질까 봐 염려가 큽니다.

I am very worried that the child's grades might drop.

염려가 크다 (worry is great/large).

건강을 염려해서 운동을 시작했어요.

I started exercising because I was concerned about my health.

~아/어서 (reason/cause).

염려를 덜기 위해 미리 준비를 마쳤습니다.

I finished preparations in advance to relieve my worry.

염려를 덜다 (to relieve/reduce worry).

이번 신제품의 성공 여부에 대해 염려의 목소리가 높다.

There are loud voices of concern regarding the success of this new product.

염려의 목소리 (voices of concern).

환경 오염에 대한 시민들의 염려가 깊어지고 있다.

Citizens' concerns about environmental pollution are deepening.

염려가 깊어지다 (concern deepens).

부작용의 염려가 없는 천연 재료를 사용했습니다.

We used natural ingredients that have no concern of side effects.

Noun + 의 + 염려 (concern of...).

그의 표정에는 염려하는 기색이 역력했다.

The look of worry was clear on his face.

기색이 역력하다 (a sign is evident).

지나친 염려는 오히려 건강에 해롭습니다.

Excessive worry is actually harmful to your health.

지나친 (excessive).

경제 위기가 닥칠 염려가 있다는 전문가의 분석이 나왔다.

An expert analysis came out saying there is a concern that an economic crisis may hit.

Indirect quotation ~는다는.

염려와 기대가 교차하는 가운데 프로젝트가 시작되었다.

The project began amidst a mix of concern and expectation.

교차하다 (to intersect/cross).

그는 자신의 염려를 겉으로 드러내지 않았다.

He did not show his concern outwardly.

겉으로 드러내다 (to show outwardly).

국가 안보에 대한 염려가 그 어느 때보다 고조되고 있다.

Concern for national security is rising higher than ever.

고조되다 (to reach a climax/heighten).

그의 발언은 사회적 염려를 불러일으키기에 충분했다.

His remarks were enough to stir up social concern.

염려를 불러일으키다 (to stir up/arouse concern).

심려를 끼쳐 드린 점, 다시 한번 머리 숙여 사과드립니다.

I apologize once again with a deep bow for causing you concern.

심려 (honorific of 염려).

인간 소외 현상에 대한 철학적 염려를 담은 소설이다.

It is a novel that contains philosophical concerns about the phenomenon of human alienation.

~을 담다 (to contain/embody).

전염병 확산의 염려가 커지자 정부는 방역을 강화했다.

As concerns about the spread of the infectious disease grew, the government strengthened quarantine measures.

~자 (as soon as/since).

그녀의 눈빛에는 자식에 대한 애틋한 염려가 서려 있었다.

In her eyes, a tender concern for her child was gathered.

서려 있다 (to be permeated/gathered).

미래 세대에 대한 염려 없이 자원을 낭비해서는 안 된다.

We must not waste resources without concern for future generations.

~없이 (without).

일각에서는 이번 조치가 인권 침해의 염려가 있다고 지적한다.

Some point out that this measure carries the risk of human rights violations.

일각 (one corner/some circles).

현대인의 고독은 실존적 염려의 한 단면을 보여준다.

The loneliness of modern people shows one aspect of existential anxiety.

실존적 (existential).

그 정책은 대중의 염려를 불식시키기에 역부족이었다.

The policy was insufficient to dispel public concern.

염려를 불식시키다 (to dispel/wipe out concern).

사소한 염려에 사로잡혀 대업을 그르쳐서는 안 된다.

One must not ruin a great task by being possessed by trivial concerns.

~에 사로잡히다 (to be possessed/seized by).

작가는 시대적 염려를 문학적 언어로 승화시켰다.

The author sublimated the concerns of the era into literary language.

승화시키다 (to sublimate).

무분별한 개발이 생태계 파괴를 초래할 염려가 다분하다.

There is a high possibility that indiscreet development will lead to the destruction of the ecosystem.

다분하다 (to be quite much/highly likely).

그의 충고는 기우에 불과한 염려가 아니었다.

His advice was not a concern that was merely a groundless fear.

기우 (groundless fear/baseless worry).

공동체의 안녕을 염려하는 마음이 모여 기적을 일구었다.

Hearts concerned for the community's well-being gathered and achieved a miracle.

일구다 (to achieve/cultivate).

지식인의 사명은 사회의 어두운 구석을 염려하고 비판하는 것이다.

The mission of an intellectual is to be concerned about and criticize the dark corners of society.

사명 (mission).

Common Collocations

염려를 끼치다

염려가 되다

염려 마세요

염려를 덜다

염려 속에

염려가 앞서다

염려의 목소리

지나친 염려

할 염려가 있다

염려를 씻다

Common Phrases

염려 마십시오

— A very formal way to say 'Please do not worry.' Used in business or with elders.

일 처리는 완벽하게 할 테니 염려 마십시오.

염려가 깊다

— To have deep or serious concerns about something.

그는 자식 교육에 대한 염려가 깊다.

염려가 따르다

— For concern or risk to follow an action.

새로운 시도에는 항상 염려가 따르기 마련이다.

염려를 자아내다

— To cause or stir up concern among people.

그의 행동은 주변의 염려를 자아냈다.

염려를 표하다

— To officially express concern about a situation.

유엔 사무총장은 분쟁 지역에 대해 염려를 표했다.

염려 끝에

— After much worrying or deliberation.

며칠간의 염려 끝에 결정을 내렸다.

염려의 대상

— An object or person that causes worry.

그의 건강은 가족들에게 큰 염려의 대상이다.

염려가 사라지다

— For worry to disappear or be resolved.

문제가 해결되자 염려가 사라졌다.

염려를 나누다

— To share one's concerns with others.

우리는 서로의 염려를 나누며 위로했다.

염려가 현실이 되다

— For a feared concern to actually happen.

안타깝게도 우리의 염려가 현실이 되었다.

Often Confused With

염려 vs 걱정

Commonly confused; '걱정' is for everyone, '염려' is for polite/formal situations.

염려 vs 고민

'고민' is about making a choice; '염려' is about feeling anxious about a result.

염려 vs 우려

'우려' is for serious social or political risks; '염려' is more personal or general.

Idioms & Expressions

"기우에 불과하다"

— A worry that is like the groundless fear of the sky falling (based on an old Chinese story).

네 걱정은 기우에 불과하니 마음 놓아라.

Literary

"노심초사"

— To worry so much that one's heart burns and one's nerves are worn out.

그는 아들의 소식을 기다리며 노심초사했다.

Formal/Hanja

"전전반측"

— Tossing and turning in bed because of worries or missing someone.

염려 때문에 전전반측하며 밤을 보냈다.

Literary

"발등에 불이 떨어지다"

— To be in a situation where a problem is so urgent that worry becomes immediate action.

시험이 내일이라 발등에 불이 떨어져서 염려할 틈도 없다.

Informal

"가슴을 졸이다"

— To be very anxious and worried, as if one's heart is shrinking.

합격 발표를 기다리며 가슴을 졸였다.

Neutral

"피가 마르다"

— To worry so intensely that it feels like one's blood is drying up.

결과를 기다리는 동안 피가 마르는 것 같았다.

Informal

"잠을 못 이루다"

— To be unable to sleep due to worry or concern.

회사의 앞날을 염려하느라 잠을 못 이루었다.

Neutral

"걱정이 태산이다"

— One's worries are as big as a mountain.

빚이 많아서 걱정이 태산이다.

Informal

"속을 태우다"

— To burn one's inside with worry.

자식이 연락이 안 돼서 부모님 속을 태웠다.

Informal

"마음이 무겁다"

— To have a heavy heart due to worry or guilt.

염려를 끼쳐 드려 마음이 무겁습니다.

Neutral

Easily Confused

염려 vs 심려

Sounds similar and has the same meaning.

심려 is an honorific noun used only to describe the worry of a superior, usually when apologizing.

선생님께 심려를 끼쳐 드렸습니다.

염려 vs 불안

Both involve negative feelings about the future.

불안 is a more general psychological state of unease, while 염려 is specific concern about a particular issue.

시험 전이라 마음이 불안하고 결과가 염려된다.

염려 vs 의심

Both involve thinking about potential problems.

의심 is doubt or suspicion about the truth; 염려 is worry about a negative outcome.

그가 거짓말을 하는지 의심스럽고, 일이 잘못될까 봐 염려된다.

염려 vs 고심

Both involve deep thinking.

고심 is the act of thinking hard to solve a problem; 염려 is just the feeling of worry.

문제를 해결하기 위해 고심했지만 결과는 여전히 염려된다.

염려 vs 주의

Both are used in warning signs.

주의 is 'caution/attention'; 염려 is the 'risk/concern' that warrants the caution.

낙석의 염려가 있으니 주의하십시오.

Sentence Patterns

염려 마세요.

제 걱정은 염려 마세요.

N이/가 염려돼요.

날씨가 염려돼요.

V-(으)ㄹ 염려가 있다.

비가 올 염려가 있다.

V-(으)ㄹ까 봐 염려하다.

늦을까 봐 염려했다.

염려를 끼쳐 드려 죄송합니다.

심려와 염려를 끼쳐 드려 죄송합니다.

염려의 목소리가 높다.

정책에 대한 염려의 목소리가 높다.

염려를 불식시키다.

불안과 염려를 불식시키기 위해 노력했다.

기우에 불과한 염려.

그것은 기우에 불과한 염려였다.

Word Family

Nouns

염려 (worry)

심려 (honorific worry)

우려 (official concern)

근심 (deep worry)

Verbs

염려하다 (to worry)

염려되다 (to be worried)

염려시키다 (to make someone worry)

Adjectives

염려스럽다 (to be concerning/worrisome)

걱정 (worry)

불안 (anxiety)

고민 (deliberation)

주의 (caution)

조심 (carefulness)

How to Use It

frequency

High in formal/written Korean; medium in daily spoken Korean.

Common Mistakes

Using '염려' with close friends. → 걱정
It sounds too stiff and formal for casual friendships.
Saying '염려를 되다'. → 염려가 되다
'되다' is intransitive and takes the subject marker '가/이'.
Using '염려' to mean 'agonizing over a choice'. → 고민
'염려' is worry about outcomes; '고민' is agony over decisions.
Using '염려' for official government warnings. → 우려
'우려' is more appropriate for high-level social or political risks.
Confusing '염려' with '의심' (suspicion). → 염려
Don't use '염려' when you mean you don't trust someone; use '의심'.

Tips

Email Etiquette

Always use '염려를 끼쳐 드려 죄송합니다' when you are late with a task or have made a mistake in a professional setting.

The 'Risk' Pattern

Memorize the pattern '~할 염려가 있다' to describe potential dangers. It's very common in technical and formal writing.

Showing Care

Expressing '염려' for an elder's health is one of the best ways to show you are a well-mannered person in Korea.

Hanja Power

Remember the '념' (mind) and '려' (ponder) to distinguish it from '우려' (official) and '걱정' (daily).

The Flap 'L'

Practice the 'ㄹ' in 'ryeo' by flicking your tongue against the roof of your mouth quickly.

Avoid Slang

Never use '염려' in a text message with lots of emojis and slang; it will create a 'tone clash'.

Context Clues

If you see '염려' on a sign, look for the word '주의' (caution) nearby. They usually go together.

Honorific Check

If you hear '심려,' the speaker is being extremely respectful. Pay attention to the social hierarchy in that scene.

The Tiger Mnemonic

Recall the 'tiger' in the character '려' to remember that this worry is alert and serious.

Subjectivity

Remember that '염려' is more subjective/emotional than '우려,' which is more objective/evidence-based.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of 'Yeom' as 'Yum' (eating) and 'Ryeo' as 'Rear' (back). You are 'eating' your thoughts from the 'rear' of your mind—that's worry!

Visual Association

Imagine a person sitting at a desk (념 - mind) with a tiger (려 - caution) peeking through the window. That intense focus on a potential threat is 염려.

Word Web

걱정 (Common) 우려 (News) 심려 (Boss) 불안 (Feeling) 건강 (Health) 안전 (Safety) 마음 (Heart) 미래 (Future)

Challenge

Try to use '염려 마세요' instead of '걱정 마' the next time you talk to your Korean teacher or a senior colleague. Notice how it changes the tone!

Word Origin

Derived from the Hanja characters 念 (념) and 慮 (려). It has been used for centuries in Korean to denote deep, thoughtful concern.

Original meaning: To think (念) and ponder/calculate (慮) about potential future difficulties.

Sino-Korean (Hanja-based vocabulary).

Cultural Context

Be careful not to sound too formal with children; '염려' can sound cold if used inappropriately with someone much younger.

English speakers might find '염려' translates better to 'concern' in professional settings and 'worry' in personal ones.

Biblical verse: Matthew 6:34 (Do not worry about tomorrow). Korean song: '걱정말아요 그대' (Don't worry, my dear) - though it uses '걱정', the sentiment is related. Classic literature: Often used in 'Sijo' (traditional poetry) to describe concern for the monarch or nation.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Health and Safety

건강 염려
안전 염려
부작용 염려
사고 염려

Business/Professional

실적 염려
지연 염려
실패 염려
염려의 목소리

Family/Relationships

자식 염려
부모님 염려
안위 염려
염려를 끼치다

Weather/Environment

폭우 염려
오염 염려
태풍 염려
결빙 염려

Religion/Philosophy

세상 염려
마음의 염려
염려를 맡기다
내일 일 염려

Conversation Starters

"요즘 가장 큰 염려가 무엇인가요? (What is your biggest concern these days?)"

"부모님이 당신에 대해 어떤 점을 가장 염려하시나요? (What do your parents worry about most regarding you?)"

"시험 결과가 염려되지는 않으세요? (Aren't you worried about the test results?)"

"건강을 염려해서 특별히 하시는 운동이 있나요? (Is there any exercise you do specifically because you're concerned about your health?)"

"환경 오염에 대한 염려가 있으신가요? (Do you have concerns about environmental pollution?)"

Journal Prompts

내가 요즘 하고 있는 염려들에 대해 적어보고, 그것을 해결할 방법을 찾아보세요. (Write about the concerns you have lately and find ways to solve them.)

'염려'와 '걱정'의 차이를 느꼈던 경험을 서술해 보세요. (Describe an experience where you felt the difference between 'yeom-ryeo' and 'geok-jeong'.)

누군가에게 염려를 끼쳤던 일에 대해 사과하는 편지를 써 보세요. (Write a letter apologizing for causing someone concern.)

미래 세대를 위해 우리가 염려해야 할 사회적 문제는 무엇일까요? (What social issues should we be concerned about for future generations?)

염려를 극복하는 나만의 방법에 대해 이야기해 보세요. (Talk about your own way of overcoming worry.)

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

It's better to use '걱정.' Using '염려' with close friends might make you sound like you're trying to be overly formal or poetic, which can be awkward unless you're joking.

'염려하다' is active (you are doing the worrying), while '염려되다' is passive/state (the worry is happening to you or the situation is concerning). Use '염려되다' when talking about feelings that arise naturally.

Yes, it generally refers to worrying about negative outcomes. However, expressing '염려' for someone else is seen as a positive, caring social gesture in Korea.

'염려 마세요' or '걱정 마세요' are both perfect. '염려 마세요' is slightly more formal and elegant.

No, '염려' is almost always about the future or a current ongoing situation. For things that happened, you would use words related to regret or sadness.

It is used informally to mean someone who worries too much (like a hypochondriac), but the medical term for anxiety disorder is '불안장애'.

Because weather reports are formal. They use '염려' to indicate the 'risk' or 'possibility' of bad weather in an objective tone.

It literally means 'Thanks to your concern.' It's a polite way to start an update, implying that the other person's caring thoughts helped you get through a situation.

Yes, both are correct. '염려를 하다' emphasizes the noun 'worry,' while '염려하다' is the standard verb form.

Yes, it is a standard Korean word used in both the North and South, though usage patterns and formality levels may differ slightly.