친절한
chinjeolhan
The English word "kind" is translated into Korean as 친절한 (chinjeolhan).
친절한 is an adjective used to describe someone who is benevolent, courteous, friendly or generous. It is specifically used to describe a person's manner or behavior toward others rather than an abstract or philosophical concept of kindness.
Meaning: benevolent, courteous, friendly, generous (adj)
Which one should you use?
While 친절하다 is the dictionary form meaning "to be kind", the form 친절한 is used specifically when the adjective directly precedes a noun, such as in the phrase "kind person".
How does it change in a sentence?
The adjective can change forms depending on how you want to use it. The dictionary form is 친절하다 (to be kind). By adding the suffix –게, you create the adverb 친절하게 (kindly). By adding the suffix -ㅁ, you create the noun 친절함 (kindness).
How do you pronounce it?
chinjeolhan
Did you know?
- In Korean, describing someone as 'kind' can sometimes sound patronizing or condescending if used toward a social superior, as it implies you are judging their character from a position of equality.
- The word 착하다 is often used to mean 'kind', but it carries a connotation of being 'good' or even 'docile'. Using it to describe an adult can sometimes imply they are too soft or easily led.
- The word 친절 is a Sino-Korean word derived from Hanja, whereas many emotional descriptions of kindness use native Korean words. This distinction often dictates whether a person sounds more formal or more heartfelt.
Examples in context
- 메리는 친절한 어르신에게 감사했다.Mary thanked the kind old man.This sentence shows how to use 친절한 to describe an elderly person.Tatoeba #8533637 by Eunhee, translation #7435874 by Hybrid
- 그는 친절한 분입니다.He is a kind person.
- 제가 경험한 가장 친절한 서비스였어요.It was the kindest service I've ever experienced.
- 너는 착한 사람이야.You are a kind person.
- 그 친구는 항상 착해서 좋아.That friend is always kind, which I love.
- 그분은 참 친절한 분이에요.geubuneun cham chinjeolhan bunieyo.That person is a very kind person.
Example conversation
Ji-eun and Do-hyeon are talking about a new coworker.
- 지은 Ji-eun새로 온 직원은 어떤 사람이에요?saero on jikwoneun eotteon saramieyo?What kind of person is the new employee?
- 도현 Do-hyeon정말 친절한 분이에요.jeongmal chinjeolhan bunieyo.He is a really kind person.
- 지은 Ji-eun다행이네요. 지은 씨도 친절하시죠?dahaengineyo. jieun ssido chinjeolhasijyo?That's a relief. You are kind too, aren't you, Ji-eun?
- 도현 Do-hyeon아니에요, 도현 씨가 더 친절해요.anieyo, dohyeon ssiga deo chinjeolhaeyo.No, Do-hyeon, you are even kinder.
Sources
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
