At the A1 level, you can think of '경건하다' as a special word for being very, very respectful. Imagine you are in a place where you need to be quiet and show respect, like a church or a very old temple. In English, we might say someone is 'pious' or 'holy.' Even though this is a big word, you can use it in simple sentences. For example, if you see someone praying, you can say '그는 경건해요' (He is pious). At this stage, just remember that it is a 'level up' from just being quiet. It means being quiet because you are thinking about God or something very important. You will mostly see this word in its form '경건한' to describe a feeling or a place. If you go to a beautiful mountain and feel very quiet and happy inside, you can use this word to describe that special feeling. It helps you express more than just 'good' or 'quiet.' It shows you understand that some things are special and sacred.
As an A2 learner, you should begin to distinguish '경건하다' from other adjectives that describe mood or personality. While '조용하다' means there is no noise, '경건하다' means there is a purposeful, respectful silence. You can use the adverbial form '경건하게' to describe how someone does something. For instance, '경건하게 인사해요' (Greet someone reverently). This word is very useful when talking about Korean culture, such as traditional holidays like Chuseok or Seollal, where families perform ancestral rites. In these moments, the atmosphere is not just 'serious' (진지하다), it is '경건하다' because it involves honoring ancestors. You might also encounter this word in simple religious texts or when visiting historical sites in Korea. Learning this word allows you to describe a deeper level of emotion and atmosphere than basic adjectives allow. Try to pair it with nouns like '마음' (heart/mind) to say '경건한 마음' (a pious heart).
At the B1 level, you can start to use '경건하다' in more complex sentence structures and understand its nuanced difference from '엄숙하다' (solemn). '경건하다' often implies a personal, internal state of religious or spiritual devotion, whereas '엄숙하다' is more about a formal, external atmosphere. You can use '경건하다' to describe a wide range of experiences, from listening to classical music to watching a sunset. In B1, you should also be comfortable with the noun form '경건함' (piety/solemnity). For example, '그의 행동에는 경건함이 배어 있다' (His actions are imbued with piety). This level of vocabulary helps you engage in deeper conversations about values, religion, and culture. You will also see this word in Korean literature and news reports about national events. It is a key word for understanding the 'Sincere' (정성) aspect of Korean social interactions, especially those involving elders or sacred traditions. Mastering this word shows that you are moving beyond basic communication into the realm of expressing abstract feelings and cultural respect.
At the B2 level, '경건하다' becomes a tool for sophisticated description. You should understand its etymological roots (Hanja: 敬虔) and how they influence its meaning. The first character, 敬 (Gyeong), means respect, and the second, 虔 (Geon), means sincerity or devotion. This knowledge helps you connect it to other words like '존경' (respect) or '경외' (awe). At this level, you can use '경건하다' to discuss philosophical or theological topics. You might describe a character in a novel as having a '경건한 삶의 태도' (a pious attitude toward life), implying they live with moral integrity and purpose. You should also be able to recognize the word in various registers, from the highly formal language of a sermon to the descriptive prose of a travel essay. B2 learners should be able to use the word metaphorically—for example, describing the silence of a snowy morning as '경건하다' to evoke a sense of purity and holiness. This word is essential for achieving a natural, high-level tone in written Korean, particularly in essays or formal letters.
For C1 learners, '경건하다' is a word that reflects the depth of Korean aesthetics and spirituality. You should be able to analyze how '경건함' functions as a cultural value in Korea, particularly in the context of Neo-Confucianism and Buddhism. In C1, you can use this word to critique art, literature, or social phenomena. For example, you might discuss whether a modern architectural piece achieves a sense of '경건함' despite its secular purpose. You should also be aware of the linguistic collocations that involve '경건하다,' such as '경건한 분위기에 휩싸이다' (to be enveloped in a pious atmosphere) or '경건함을 자아내다' (to evoke a sense of piety). At this level, your usage should be precise—distinguishing between '경건하다' and similar terms like '숭고하다' (sublime) or '거룩하다' (holy) based on the specific emotional and theological context. You will encounter this word in academic papers on theology, philosophy, and history, and you should be able to incorporate it into your own academic or professional writing to convey a sense of profound respect and intellectual gravity.
At the C2 level, you possess a near-native grasp of '경건하다' and can use it with all its subtle connotations and historical weight. You understand that '경건함' is not just a description but an ontological state in Korean thought—a way of being in the world that acknowledges the sacred in the mundane. You can use the word in high-level literary creative writing, employing it to create specific moods and to explore the interiority of characters who grapple with faith, duty, and existence. You are capable of engaging in complex debates about the role of '경건함' in contemporary secular society and can use the word to describe the 'secular sacred'—moments of profound human connection or artistic achievement that transcend the everyday. Your understanding includes the word's appearance in classical literature and its evolution into modern usage. At this stage, '경건하다' is not just a vocabulary item but a window into the Korean soul, and you use it to express the most delicate and profound aspects of the human experience with precision, elegance, and cultural resonance.

경건하다 30秒了解

  • A formal adjective meaning 'pious' or 'devout,' used for religious or highly respectful contexts.
  • Describes both a person's internal sincere devotion and the external solemn atmosphere of a place.
  • Rooted in Hanja (敬虔), emphasizing respect and sincerity toward the divine or sacred.
  • Commonly paired with nouns like atmosphere (분위기), heart (마음), and attitude (태도).

The Korean adjective 경건하다 (Gyeong-geon-hada) is a profound term that encapsulates the essence of spiritual devotion, solemnity, and deep-seated reverence. At its core, it describes a state of being or an atmosphere that is pious, devout, and holy. Unlike simple words for 'quiet' or 'serious,' 경건하다 specifically points toward a transcendent connection—usually religious or moral in nature. When you use this word, you are describing a person whose life is dedicated to a higher power, or a place where the very air feels thick with respect for the divine. It is derived from the Hanja characters 敬 (Respect/Revere) and 虔 (Sincere/Devout), which together create a picture of someone bowing their heart in absolute sincerity before something greater than themselves.

Religious Context
In Christianity, Buddhism, or any faith, a '경건한 삶' (pious life) refers to a lifestyle of prayer, meditation, and adherence to spiritual laws. It is not just about outward appearance but an inward quality of the soul.

그는 매일 아침 경건하게 기도를 드립니다. (He offers prayers devoutly every morning.)

Beyond the religious sphere, the word is used to describe moments of profound silence and respect. Imagine standing before a war memorial or a majestic natural wonder like the Grand Canyon; the feeling of awe and smallness you experience is often described as 경건하다. It is the opposite of '경솔하다' (frivolous or careless). In a world that is often loud and chaotic, 경건하다 represents the human ability to pause, reflect, and acknowledge the sacredness of life, death, and the universe. It is a word that carries weight, and using it correctly signals a high level of cultural and linguistic maturity in Korean.

Atmospheric Usage
Used to describe the '분위기' (atmosphere) of a temple, a funeral, or a graduation ceremony where everyone is focused and respectful.

성당 안의 경건한 분위기에 압도되었다. (I was overwhelmed by the solemn atmosphere inside the cathedral.)

Moral Integrity
It can also imply a sense of moral uprightness, where a person conducts themselves with a gravity that commands respect from others.

Using 경건하다 effectively requires understanding its grammatical flexibility as a descriptive verb (adjective). It follows standard Korean conjugation patterns but is most frequently seen in its attributive form 경건한 (pious/solemn) or its adverbial form 경건하게 (piously/solemnly). Because the word is inherently formal, it is rarely used in casual slang or highly informal 'Banmal' unless speaking about someone else's character in a serious discussion. In most cases, you will use it with the '-ㄴ/은' ending to modify a noun, such as '경건한 마음' (a pious heart) or '경건한 의식' (a solemn ceremony).

우리는 경건한 자세로 묵념을 했다. (We offered a moment of silence in a solemn posture.)

When describing an action, 경건하게 is the go-to adverb. It modifies verbs like '기도하다' (to pray), '지내다' (to spend/live), or '대하다' (to treat/face). For instance, '명절을 경건하게 지내다' implies spending a holiday with traditional respect and quiet reflection rather than loud partying. This distinction is crucial in Korean culture, where the manner in which one approaches an event (the '자세' or attitude) is often more important than the event itself. Using 경건하다 signals that the subject is treating the situation with the highest level of psychological and spiritual preparation.

Sentence Structure: Subject + Adjective
마음이 경건하다 (The heart is pious). Here, the focus is on the state of the subject's mind.

그의 목소리는 낮고 경건했습니다. (His voice was low and solemn.)

In formal writing, such as essays or religious texts, you will often see it paired with the suffix '-함' to create a noun: 경건함 (piety/solemnity). For example, '경건함을 유지하다' (to maintain one's piety). This is common in instructional contexts where one is being told how to behave in a sacred space. Furthermore, the word can be used metaphorically to describe the 'sublime' feeling of nature. When the sun rises over a mountain peak, a Korean speaker might say the scene is '경건하다' to express that the beauty is so great it feels like a religious experience.

Common Noun Pairings
경건한 분위기 (solemn atmosphere), 경건한 신자 (devout believer), 경건한 태도 (reverent attitude).

You will encounter 경건하다 in specific high-register environments. The most common place is within religious institutions. In a Korean church (교회) or temple (절), the pastor or monk might urge the congregation to maintain a '경건한 마음' (pious heart) before the service begins. It is the standard vocabulary for religious devotion. If you watch Korean dramas set in historical periods (Sa-geuk), characters often use this word when discussing ancestral rites (Jesa) or their duty to the heavens. It carries a historical weight that makes it sound dignified and timeless.

절에 들어서자 경건한 종소리가 울려 퍼졌다. (As I entered the temple, the solemn sound of the bell echoed.)

Another common venue is during national ceremonies or memorial events. On Memorial Day (현충일) in Korea, news anchors and public speakers frequently use 경건하다 to describe the nation's collective mourning and respect for fallen soldiers. It is the appropriate word for 'solemnity' in a civic sense. You might also hear it in documentaries about nature or art. A narrator describing a master painter's focus or a vast, untouched forest will use '경건하다' to elevate the subject matter from merely 'pretty' or 'quiet' to something awe-inspiring and spiritually significant.

News & Media
Used during broadcasts of state funerals or significant historical anniversaries to set a respectful tone.

그는 경건한 마음으로 조국을 위해 기도했다. (He prayed for his country with a pious heart.)

In literature and poetry, 경건하다 is used to evoke a sense of 'Sublime' (숭고함). It is a favorite word for writers who want to describe a character's internal transformation or their realization of a higher truth. If you are reading a Korean novel and a character enters a quiet library or a room full of ancient books, the author might use 경건하다 to suggest that the pursuit of knowledge is a sacred act. In everyday conversation, it is less common among friends unless they are discussing a serious life event, such as a wedding or a funeral, where they want to emphasize the importance of the occasion.

Literature
Often used to describe the 'hush' that falls over a crowd during a momentous event.

One of the most frequent mistakes learners make is confusing 경건하다 with 조용하다 (to be quiet). While a '경건한' place is often quiet, the silence of a library is not necessarily '경건하다' unless it also feels holy or profoundly respectful. If you just mean there is no noise, use 조용하다. If you use 경건하다 to describe a quiet classroom, it might sound like the students are performing a religious rite instead of just studying! Always ask yourself: Is there a sense of 'awe' or 'sacredness' here? If not, 경건하다 is likely too strong a word.

Wrong: 도서관이 참 경건해요. (The library is very pious.)
Right: 도서관이 참 조용해요. (The library is very quiet.)

Another common error is mixing it up with 진지하다 (to be serious). While a pious person is serious, 진지하다 is used for general sincerity in conversation or work. You can be '진지하다' about a joke or a business deal, but you wouldn't be '경건하다' about them unless the business deal was a sacred vow. Using 경건하다 in a casual context can make you sound overly dramatic or even sarcastic. For example, if you say you are '경건하게' eating a hamburger, Koreans will think you are making a joke about how much you love the burger, treating it like a religious experience.

Confusion with '엄숙하다'
'엄숙하다' means solemn or grave (like a judge or a military parade). '경건하다' adds the layer of 'religious/heartfelt' devotion. A funeral is both '엄숙' and '경건'.

Mistake: 그는 경건한 농담을 했다. (He told a pious joke.)
Correct: 그는 진지한 농담을 했다. (He told a serious joke.)

Lastly, learners sometimes forget that 경건하다 is an adjective, not a verb. In English, we might say 'to revere' (verb), but in Korean, you cannot say '경건한다'. You must use '경건하다' or '경건해지다' (to become pious). Also, ensure you don't confuse it with '겸손하다' (to be humble). While related, humility is about one's self-assessment, while piety is about one's relationship to the sacred. You can be humble without being pious, and vice versa (though they often go together in Korean culture).

To truly master 경건하다, you must understand its neighbors in the Korean vocabulary of respect and solemnity. The most common alternative is 엄숙하다 (Eom-suk-hada). While '경건하다' focuses on the religious or inward devotion, '엄숙하다' focuses on the external atmosphere of gravity and strictness. A courtroom is '엄숙하다', but a prayer room is '경건하다'. If an event is strictly formal and requires everyone to be perfectly still and serious, use '엄숙하다'.

경건하다 vs. 엄숙하다
경건하다: Spiritual, religious, heartfelt reverence.
엄숙하다: Formal, grave, strictly serious atmosphere.

Another high-level synonym is 숭고하다 (Sung-go-hada), which translates to 'sublime' or 'noble'. This word is used for actions or thoughts that are morally magnificent. A soldier sacrificing their life for their country is '숭고하다'. While '경건하다' is about the *feeling* of reverence, '숭고하다' is about the *quality* of the thing being revered. If you are describing a hero's spirit, '숭고하다' is better; if you are describing the feeling of the people watching the hero, '경건하다' is more appropriate.

어머니의 숭고한 희생 앞에서 우리는 경건해졌다. (Faced with mother's noble sacrifice, we became solemn.)

For everyday devotion, you might hear 신실하다 (Sin-sil-hada). This is specifically used for people who are 'faithful' or 'trustworthy' in their religious life. A '신실한 청년' is a faithful young man who attends church regularly. '경건하다' is a broader state of being, while '신실하다' is more about the consistency of one's faith and character. Finally, 지극하다 (Ji-geuk-hada) can be used to describe 'extreme' or 'devoted' care or sincerity, often in the phrase '정성이 지극하다' (one's sincerity is extreme/devoted).

Comparison Table
- 경건하다: Pious/Reverent (Focus: Heart/Spirit)
- 엄숙하다: Solemn/Grave (Focus: Atmosphere/Rule)
- 숭고하다: Sublime/Noble (Focus: Moral Greatness)
- 신실하다: Faithful/Devout (Focus: Character/Reliability)

How Formal Is It?

趣味小知识

The Hanja character 敬 (Gyeong) originally depicted a person standing straight and alert, showing that respect in ancient times was linked to being attentive and disciplined.

发音指南

UK kjʌŋ.ɡʌn.ɦa.da
US kjʌŋ.ɡʌn.hɑ.dɑ
In Korean, stress is generally equal across syllables, but a slight emphasis on the first syllable '경' (Gyeong) helps clarity.
押韵词
성실하다 (Seong-sil-hada) 정직하다 (Jeong-jik-hada) 겸손하다 (Gyeom-son-hada) 영원하다 (Yeong-won-hada) 평온하다 (Pyeong-on-hada) 공정하다 (Gong-jeong-hada) 냉정하다 (Naeng-jeong-hada) 다정하다 (Da-jeong-hada)
常见错误
  • Pronouncing '경' as '강' (Gang).
  • Making the 'g' in 'geon' too hard like a 'k'.
  • Skipping the 'h' sound in 'hada' (though in fast speech it often weakens).
  • Vowel confusion between 'ʌ' (eo) and 'o'.
  • Not nasalizing the 'ng' (ㅇ) ending in the first syllable.

难度评级

阅读 3/5

The Hanja-based meaning is clear, but the context requires cultural understanding.

写作 4/5

Requires knowing which nouns (like atmosphere, heart) it naturally pairs with.

口语 3/5

Pronunciation is straightforward, but finding the right situation to use it is key.

听力 3/5

Common in formal broadcasts and religious settings.

接下来学什么

前置知识

조용하다 진지하다 기도 마음 분위기

接下来学习

엄숙하다 숭고하다 거룩하다 신앙 의식

高级

경외심 구도자 세속적 성스러움 경건주의

需要掌握的语法

Adjective to Adverb (-게)

경건하다 -> 경건하게

Adjective to Noun (-함)

경건하다 -> 경건함

Becoming state (-아/어지다)

경건해지다 (To become pious)

Attributive form (-ㄴ/은)

경건한 사람 (Pious person)

Honorifics with Adjectives (-시-)

그분은 참 경건하십니다.

按水平分级的例句

1

할머니는 매우 경건해요.

Grandmother is very pious.

Simple adjective use: Subject + Adjective.

2

교회는 경건한 곳이에요.

The church is a pious (solemn) place.

Attributive form: 경건한 + Noun.

3

마음이 경건해요.

My heart feels pious/reverent.

Describing an internal state.

4

경건하게 기도해요.

Pray devoutly.

Adverbial form: 경건하게 + Verb.

5

여기는 분위기가 경건해요.

The atmosphere here is solemn.

Topic marker '여기는' used with atmosphere.

6

경건한 노래를 들어요.

I listen to a pious (hymn-like) song.

Modifying the noun '노래'.

7

그는 경건한 사람입니다.

He is a pious person.

Formal ending '-입니다'.

8

우리는 경건하게 앉아 있어요.

We are sitting reverently.

Describing the manner of an action.

1

그는 경건한 자세로 책을 읽었다.

He read the book in a reverent posture.

N + -로 (with/in a certain way).

2

산 정상에서 경건한 기분이 들었다.

I felt a pious (solemn) feeling at the mountain top.

기분이 들다 (to have a feeling).

3

경건한 분위기 속에서 예식이 진행되었다.

The ceremony proceeded in a solemn atmosphere.

속에서 (inside/within).

4

그녀는 매일 아침 경건하게 명상을 한다.

She meditates devoutly every morning.

Adverbial use with a regular habit.

5

부모님은 경건한 신자이십니다.

My parents are devout believers.

Honorific ending '-이십니다'.

6

박물관 안은 매우 경건했다.

Inside the museum was very solemn.

Past tense: 경건했다.

7

우리는 경건한 마음으로 조상을 기렸다.

We honored our ancestors with a pious heart.

기리다 (to honor/commemorate).

8

선생님의 말씀은 경건하고 힘이 있었다.

The teacher's words were solemn and powerful.

Connecting two adjectives with -고.

1

성당의 스테인드글라스를 보니 경건한 마음이 절로 생겼다.

Looking at the cathedral's stained glass, a pious feeling arose naturally.

절로 (naturally/of its own accord).

2

그의 삶은 경건함 그 자체였다.

His life was piety itself.

Noun form + 그 자체 (itself).

3

우리는 경건한 침묵 속에 잠시 머물렀다.

We stayed for a moment in a solemn silence.

침묵 (silence) as a noun modified by 경건한.

4

장례식장은 경건하고 엄숙한 분위기였다.

The funeral hall had a pious and solemn atmosphere.

Pairing with '엄숙하다' for emphasis.

5

그녀는 경건한 손길로 유물을 닦았다.

She wiped the relic with a reverent touch.

손길 (touch/hand) used metaphorically.

6

아침 이슬을 머금은 숲은 경건해 보였다.

The forest, covered in morning dew, looked pious (solemn).

-아/어 보이다 (to look like...).

7

경건한 신앙생활은 그에게 큰 위로가 되었다.

A pious religious life became a great comfort to him.

신앙생활 (religious life).

8

그는 경건한 어조로 성경을 낭독했다.

He recited the Bible in a solemn tone.

어조 (tone of voice).

1

대자연의 신비 앞에서 인간은 경건해질 수밖에 없다.

Before the mysteries of Mother Nature, humans cannot help but become pious.

-ㄹ 수밖에 없다 (cannot help but...).

2

그 작가는 경건한 구도자의 자세로 글을 쓴다.

That writer writes with the attitude of a pious seeker.

구도자 (seeker of truth/ascetic).

3

음악회장은 연주가 시작되자 경건한 공기로 가득 찼다.

As the performance began, the concert hall was filled with a solemn air.

공기 (air) used to describe atmosphere.

4

그는 경건하게 두 손을 모으고 고개를 숙였다.

He devoutly put his hands together and bowed his head.

Describing a sequence of respectful actions.

5

전쟁 기념관에 들어서니 마음이 숙연해지고 경건해졌다.

Entering the war memorial, my heart became solemn and pious.

숙연해지다 (to become solemn/quiet).

6

그의 얼굴에는 경건한 빛이 감돌았다.

A pious glow played across his face.

빛이 감돌다 (a light/glow lingers/plays).

7

우리는 경건한 의식을 통해 마음을 정화했다.

We purified our minds through a solemn ritual.

정화하다 (to purify).

8

그는 경건한 삶을 살기 위해 세속을 떠났다.

He left the secular world to live a pious life.

세속 (the secular world).

1

예술가는 경건한 창조의 고통을 인내하며 작품을 완성했다.

The artist completed the work while enduring the pious pain of creation.

창조의 고통 (pain of creation).

2

이곳은 종교를 초월한 경건함이 느껴지는 공간이다.

This is a space where a piety that transcends religion is felt.

초월하다 (to transcend).

3

그의 침묵은 단순한 거부가 아니라 경건한 성찰의 결과였다.

His silence was not a simple refusal but the result of pious reflection.

A 아니라 B (not A but B).

4

고전 음악의 경건한 선율이 마음의 깊은 곳을 울렸다.

The pious melody of classical music resonated in the depths of the heart.

울리다 (to ring/resonate).

5

그는 경건한 소명의식을 가지고 환자들을 돌보았다.

He took care of patients with a pious sense of calling.

소명의식 (sense of calling/vocation).

6

역사의 현장에서 우리는 경건한 책임감을 느꼈다.

At the site of history, we felt a pious sense of responsibility.

역사의 현장 (site of history).

7

그의 문체는 경건하면서도 절제된 미학을 보여준다.

His writing style shows a pious yet restrained aesthetic.

-면서도 (while also/yet).

8

우리는 경건한 마음으로 진리를 탐구해야 한다.

We must seek the truth with a pious heart.

탐구하다 (to investigate/seek).

1

인간 존재의 유한성 앞에서 느끼는 경건함은 숭고미의 극치이다.

The piety felt before the finiteness of human existence is the pinnacle of sublime beauty.

유한성 (finiteness), 극치 (pinnacle/climax).

2

그의 철학은 경건한 사유를 통해 우주의 섭리를 고찰한다.

His philosophy contemplates the providence of the universe through pious thought.

사유 (thought/speculation), 섭리 (providence).

3

경건함이란 자아를 비우고 절대자를 향해 마음을 여는 과정이다.

Piety is the process of emptying the self and opening the heart toward the Absolute.

-이란 (definition marker).

4

그 건축물은 빛과 그림자의 대비를 통해 경건한 공간감을 창출한다.

The building creates a pious sense of space through the contrast of light and shadow.

공간감 (sense of space).

5

시인은 경건한 언어로 보이지 않는 세계를 형상화했다.

The poet gave shape to the invisible world with pious language.

형상화하다 (to give shape to/incarnate).

6

진정한 경건함은 일상의 사소한 순간 속에서도 발견될 수 있다.

True piety can be discovered even within the trivial moments of daily life.

사소한 (trivial/minor).

7

그의 죽음은 우리에게 경건한 슬픔과 깊은 성찰을 남겼다.

His death left us with a pious sorrow and deep reflection.

성찰 (reflection/introspection).

8

우리는 경건한 마음으로 생명의 존엄성을 지켜나가야 한다.

We must protect the dignity of life with a pious heart.

존엄성 (dignity).

常见搭配

경건한 마음
경건한 분위기
경건한 자세
경건한 삶
경건하게 기도하다
경건함이 느껴지다
경건함을 유지하다
경건한 어조
경건한 의식
경건한 신자

常用短语

경건한 묵념

— A pious/solemn moment of silence.

우리는 순국선열을 위해 경건한 묵념을 올렸다.

경건한 신앙

— A pious or devout faith.

그녀의 경건한 신앙은 모두의 귀감이 되었다.

경건한 침묵

— A solemn silence that carries respect.

교실 안에는 경건한 침묵이 흘렀다.

경건하게 지내다

— To live or spend time in a pious manner.

이번 주말은 집에서 경건하게 지낼 생각이다.

경건한 태도

— A reverent or pious attitude.

면접관 앞에서 경건한 태도를 보였다.

경건한 빛

— A pious look or glow (often on a face).

그의 눈에는 경건한 빛이 서려 있었다.

경건한 음악

— Music that sounds holy or solemn (like hymns).

라디오에서 경건한 음악이 흘러나왔다.

경건한 장소

— A sacred or holy place.

이곳은 경건한 장소이니 조용히 하세요.

경건한 마음가짐

— A pious mindset or mental preparation.

경건한 마음가짐으로 새해를 맞이했다.

경건한 의무

— A sacred or pious duty.

그는 그것을 자신의 경건한 의무라고 생각했다.

容易混淆的词

경건하다 vs 조용하다

Often confused because pious places are quiet, but '경건하다' implies a spiritual reason for the silence.

경건하다 vs 진지하다

Both mean serious, but '진지하다' is for general sincerity, while '경건하다' is for sacred reverence.

경건하다 vs 엄숙하다

Very similar; '엄숙하다' is more about the external gravity of a situation, like a court or parade.

习语与表达

"경건한 마음을 가다듬다"

— To compose one's heart in a pious manner; to prepare oneself spiritually.

중요한 일을 앞두고 경건한 마음을 가다듬었다.

Formal
"경건함에 젖다"

— To be soaked in or overwhelmed by a sense of piety.

아름다운 성가에 모두가 경건함에 젖었다.

Literary
"경건한 자리에 앉다"

— To take a seat in a solemn/pious setting; can imply taking a high moral position.

그는 경건한 자리에 앉아 조용히 생각에 잠겼다.

Neutral
"경건의 시간을 갖다"

— To have 'Quiet Time' (QT); a common Christian phrase for daily devotion.

매일 아침 30분씩 경건의 시간을 갖는다.

Religious
"경건한 분위기를 깨다"

— To break a solemn/pious atmosphere.

누군가의 재채기가 경건한 분위기를 깼다.

Neutral
"경건한 손길을 뻗다"

— To reach out with a reverent/holy hand; to help with deep sincerity.

그는 가난한 이들에게 경건한 손길을 뻗었다.

Literary
"경건한 무덤"

— Metaphor for a place of absolute, respectful silence.

도서관은 경건한 무덤처럼 조용했다.

Literary
"경건한 무릎을 꿇다"

— To kneel reverently; to show absolute submission to the divine.

그는 신 앞에서 경건한 무릎을 꿇었다.

Literary
"경건한 눈빛"

— A look of deep reverence.

아이의 경건한 눈빛이 나를 감동시켰다.

Neutral
"경건한 향기"

— A 'pious scent'; metaphor for a person's good influence or holy character.

그의 인품에서는 경건한 향기가 났다.

Literary

容易混淆

경건하다 vs 겸손하다

Both are virtues.

Humility (겸손) is about low self-regard; Piety (경건) is about high regard for the sacred.

그는 겸손하면서도 경건한 사람이다.

경건하다 vs 신실하다

Both relate to faith.

Faithfulness (신실) is about consistency; Piety (경건) is about the state of reverence.

신실한 신자는 경건한 삶을 산다.

경건하다 vs 거룩하다

Both mean holy.

Holy (거룩) is an attribute of the divine; Pious (경건) is an attribute of the human response to the divine.

거룩한 신 앞에서 우리는 경건해진다.

경건하다 vs 정중하다

Both involve respect.

Politeness (정중) is social; Piety (경건) is spiritual.

그는 손님을 정중하게 대했고, 신을 경건하게 섬겼다.

경건하다 vs 숙연하다

Both involve quiet respect.

Solemnized (숙연) is a reaction to a specific event; Pious (경건) is a general state or quality.

추모사를 듣고 분위기가 숙연해졌으며, 모두 경건한 마음으로 기도했다.

句型

A1

N이/가 경건해요.

마음이 경건해요.

A2

경건한 N

경건한 분위기

B1

경건하게 V

경건하게 기도해요.

B2

N에서 경건함을 느끼다

숲에서 경건함을 느껴요.

C1

경건하기 그지없다

그의 태도는 경건하기 그지없었다.

C2

경건함이 배어 있다

그의 삶에는 경건함이 배어 있다.

B1

경건해 보이다

그는 아주 경건해 보여요.

A2

경건하고 Adj

경건하고 조용하다

词族

名词

경건 (Piety)
경건함 (Piousness)
경건주의 (Pietism)
경건회 (Devotional meeting)

动词

경건해지다 (To become pious)

形容词

경건하다 (Pious/Solemn)

相关

존경 (Respect)
경외 (Awe)
공경 (Reverence)
실천 (Practice)
신앙 (Faith)

如何使用

frequency

Medium (High in religious/literary contexts)

常见错误
  • Using it for a quiet cafe. 조용하다

    A cafe is just quiet (no noise), not 'pious' unless it's a themed religious cafe.

  • Saying '경건해요' for a serious business meeting. 진지하다 / 엄숙하다

    Business meetings are serious (진지) or formal (엄숙), but rarely 'pious' (경건).

  • Confusing '경건하다' (pious) with '겸손하다' (humble). Use '경건' for reverence, '겸손' for self-modesty.

    While related, they describe different virtues.

  • Using '경건한다' as a verb. 경건하다 (Adjective)

    In Korean, you cannot use the present progressive '-ㄴ다' with adjectives.

  • Using '경건하다' for something 'cool' or 'awesome'. 멋지다 / 대단하다

    Even if nature is awesome, '경건하다' specifically adds a layer of holy respect.

小贴士

Temple Etiquette

When visiting a Korean temple, using the word '경건하다' to describe the atmosphere shows the monks and locals that you respect their sacred space.

Adjective vs. Noun

Remember that '경건함' is the noun (piety). You can say '경건함을 배우다' (to learn piety).

Pairing with Nature

Use '경건하다' to describe a sunrise or a mountain peak to sound more like a native speaker who appreciates the 'sublime' in nature.

News Keywords

When you hear '경건' on the news, it's a sign that the topic is about a national memorial or a serious cultural event.

Tone Matters

Speak '경건하다' with a calm, steady voice. Speaking it too excitedly or loudly contradicts the meaning of the word.

Essays

This is a 'high-score' word for TOPIK essays. Using it correctly to describe respect or tradition shows advanced proficiency.

Christian Context

In Korean churches, '경건의 시간' (QT) is a daily practice. Knowing this term helps you connect with many Koreans.

Solemnity

If the situation is just serious but not 'holy,' use '엄숙하다' instead of '경건하다'.

Hanja Link

Associate 'Gyeong' with 'Gyeong-rye' (Salute/Bow). You bow in a '경건한' place.

Funeral Usage

At a funeral, describing the atmosphere as '경건하다' is a polite way to acknowledge the respect being shown to the deceased.

记住它

记忆技巧

Think of a 'Gyeong' (King) who is 'Geon' (Gone) to a church to be pious. King-Gone-Hada.

视觉联想

Imagine a candle burning in a dark, quiet stone cathedral. The feeling of that single flame is '경건하다'.

Word Web

Church Temple Prayer Silence Respect God Solemn Heart

挑战

Try to spend 5 minutes today '경건하게' (solemnly) reflecting on your goals without any digital distractions.

词源

Derived from Sino-Korean (Hanja). 'Gyeong' (敬) and 'Geon' (虔).

原始含义: To show respect (敬) with a sincere and devout heart (虔).

Sino-Korean vocabulary.

文化背景

Avoid using this word jokingly about minor things, as it might offend those who take their faith or traditions seriously.

While 'pious' can sometimes have a negative connotation in English (sounding 'holier-than-thou'), '경건하다' is almost always positive in Korean, implying dignity and sincerity.

The hymn 'Nearer, My God, to Thee' is often described as a '경건한 찬송' (pious hymn) in Korea. The movie 'Secret Sunshine' (밀양) explores themes of '경건함' and suffering. Traditional 'Gugak' (Korean classical music) is often described as having a '경건한 아름다움' (pious beauty).

在生活中练习

真实语境

At a Church/Temple

  • 경건한 예배
  • 경건하게 기도합시다
  • 경건한 신자
  • 경건함이 넘치는 공간

At a Funeral/Memorial

  • 경건한 묵념
  • 경건한 태도
  • 경건하게 고인을 추모하다
  • 엄숙하고 경건한 분위기

In Nature

  • 경건한 산맥
  • 경건한 일출
  • 대자연 앞에서의 경건함
  • 경건한 침묵

Reading/Studying

  • 경건한 자세로 독서
  • 경건한 탐구
  • 경건한 지혜
  • 경건한 서적

Self-Reflection

  • 경건한 마음가짐
  • 경건한 반성
  • 경건하게 하루를 시작하다
  • 경건한 삶의 목표

对话开场白

"종교적인 장소에 가면 마음이 경건해지나요? (Do you feel pious when you go to religious places?)"

"가장 경건한 분위기를 느꼈던 곳은 어디예요? (Where was the place you felt the most solemn atmosphere?)"

"경건한 삶을 사는 사람에 대해 어떻게 생각하세요? (What do you think about people who live a pious life?)"

"어떤 음악을 들을 때 경건한 기분이 드나요? (What kind of music makes you feel pious/solemn?)"

"경건함과 엄숙함의 차이가 무엇이라고 생각하세요? (What do you think is the difference between piety and solemnity?)"

日记主题

오늘 하루 중 가장 경건했던 순간에 대해 써 보세요. (Write about the most pious/solemn moment of your day today.)

내가 생각하는 '경건한 삶'이란 무엇인지 정의해 보세요. (Define what a 'pious life' means to you.)

대자연 앞에서 경건함을 느꼈던 경험을 묘사해 보세요. (Describe an experience where you felt awe/piety in front of nature.)

현대 사회에서 경건함이 왜 중요한지 자신의 생각을 적어 보세요. (Write your thoughts on why piety/solemnity is important in modern society.)

경건한 마음을 유지하기 위해 내가 할 수 있는 일들은? (What are things I can do to maintain a pious heart?)

常见问题

10 个问题

Usually, no. '조용하다' is better unless the library is so ancient and magnificent that it feels like a sacred temple of knowledge. Using '경건하다' for a normal school library would sound exaggerated or poetic.

While it has strong religious roots, it can be used by anyone to describe a feeling of deep awe or solemn respect, such as when looking at a sunset or attending a graduation ceremony.

The direct opposite in a religious sense is '불경하다' (profane/disrespectful). In a general sense, '경솔하다' (frivolous/careless) or '가볍다' (light/not serious) are common opposites.

You use the adverbial form '경건하게'. For example, '경건하게 살다' means 'to live piously'.

It is not as common as '좋다' or '예쁘다', but you will hear it frequently in church, on the news during national holidays, or read it in books.

Yes, it implies they have a very disciplined, moral, and devout character. It is a very high compliment for someone's spiritual maturity.

'경건한 마음' is a heart full of reverence for something sacred. '진지한 마음' is a heart that is simply sincere and not joking about a topic.

Yes, many Korean weddings (especially those in churches) are described as '경건하다' to emphasize the sacredness of the vows.

Yes, but only if the topic is serious. '이 노래 진짜 경건하다' (This song is really pious/solemn) is fine among friends.

No, it implies being respectful and focused. While it occurs at funerals, the word itself doesn't mean sadness; it means reverence.

自我测试 192 个问题

writing

Write a sentence using '경건한 마음' (pious heart).

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

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
writing

Describe the atmosphere of a temple using '경건하다'.

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

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
writing

How would you tell someone to be pious in a sacred place?

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正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
writing

Translate: 'He lives a pious life.'

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

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
writing

Use '경건하게' to describe an action.

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正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
writing

Write about a time you felt '경건함'.

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正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
writing

Translate: 'The church was very solemn.'

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正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
writing

Make a sentence with '경건해지다'.

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正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
writing

Describe a person's character as pious.

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

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
writing

Translate: 'We offered a moment of silence with a pious heart.'

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

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
writing

Explain the difference between '경건' and '엄숙' in one sentence.

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正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
writing

Use '경건함' as the subject of a sentence.

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正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
writing

Translate: 'A pious light was in his eyes.'

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正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
writing

Write a formal notice for a ceremony using '경건하다'.

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正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
writing

Describe a sunset using '경건하다'.

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正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
writing

Translate: 'Please keep a pious silence.'

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正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
writing

Use '경건히' in a sentence.

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正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
writing

Describe a Master's workshop.

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

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
writing

Translate: 'Piety is a virtue.'

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

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writing

Write a short prayer-like sentence.

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正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
speaking

Pronounce '경건하다' clearly.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say 'A pious heart' in Korean.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say 'The atmosphere is solemn' in Korean.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Ask 'Are you a pious person?' in Korean.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say 'Let's pray piously' in Korean.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Describe a temple's atmosphere out loud.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say 'I feel pious' in Korean.

Read this aloud:

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
speaking

Say 'He lived a pious life' in Korean.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Pronounce the adverb form '경건하게'.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say 'Don't break the pious atmosphere' in Korean.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Practice the sentence: '마음이 경건해집니다.'

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say 'A pious silence' in Korean.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say 'Pious attitude' in Korean.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Practice saying the Hanja roots: 'Gyeong' and 'Geon'.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say 'Pious music' in Korean.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say 'I want to live piously' in Korean.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say 'A pious ceremony' in Korean.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say 'The mountain was solemn' in Korean.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Practice: '경건한 묵념을 올립시다.'

Read this aloud:

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
speaking

Say 'Piety is important' in Korean.

Read this aloud:

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
listening

Listen and identify the word: '경건한 마음으로...' What is the adjective?

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
listening

Listen to the sentence: '이곳은 아주 경건한 곳입니다.' Where are we likely located?

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
listening

Listen: '그는 참 신실하고 경건해요.' What two qualities does he have?

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
listening

Listen: '경건하게 기도합시다.' What action is requested?

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
listening

Listen: '분위기가 너무 경건해서 숨소리도 안 들려요.' How quiet is it?

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
listening

Listen: '경건한 삶을 추구합니다.' What is being pursued?

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
listening

Listen: '경건함이 느껴지네요.' What is being felt?

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
listening

Listen: '경건한 침묵을 지켜주세요.' What should I do?

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
listening

Listen: '그의 목소리는 경건했다.' Describe his voice.

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
listening

Listen: '경건해지는 기분이에요.' How does the speaker feel?

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
listening

Listen: '경건한 음악이 흘러요.' What is playing?

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
listening

Listen: '경건한 자세를 취하세요.' What should I adjust?

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
listening

Listen: '경건한 의식이 시작됩니다.' What is starting?

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
listening

Listen: '그는 경건한 신자입니다.' What is his religious status?

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
listening

Listen: '경건함을 잃지 마세요.' What should I not lose?

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
正确! 不太对。 正确答案:

/ 192 correct

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