너를 지켜줄게
neoreul jikyeojulge
The English phrase "protect you" is translated into Korean as 너를 지켜줄게 (neoreul jikyeojulge).
너를 지켜줄게 is a promise to keep someone safe from harm or danger. This phrase is commonly used in dramatic contexts, such as in songs or K-dramas, to express a deep commitment to someone's safety.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of 너를 (you [object]), 지켜 (protect) and 줄게 (will do for someone/as a favor).
Which one should you use?
While the verb 지키다 simply means to protect, the form 지켜줄게 implies a proactive promise to provide protection as a favor to the listener.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
너를 지켜줄게 is informal. The use of 너 (you) and the -게 ending makes it suitable for use with friends, younger people or romantic partners.
How does it change in a sentence?
The verb ending -줄게 in 지켜줄게 expresses a promise or an intention to perform an action specifically for the benefit of the listener.
How do you pronounce it?
neoreul jikyeojulge
Did you know?
- The auxiliary verb 주다 inside 지켜줄게 literally means 'to give'. This frames the act of protecting someone as a gift being given to the other person.
- The root verb 지키다 is also used to describe keeping a promise or observing a law. In Korean, protecting a person and keeping a vow use the same word.
- Using the informal 너 (you) in this phrase is extremely common in K-pop lyrics to create a sense of intimacy. However, using it in a real-life situation with a stranger or a superior would be considered quite rude and potentially aggressive.
Examples in context
- 저는 항상 당신을 지켜요.I will always protect you.
- 내가 너를 지켜줄게.I will protect you.
- 네 안전을 보호하겠어요.I will protect your safety.
- 내가 꼭 너를 지켜줄게.naega kkok neoreul jikyeojulge.I will definitely protect you.
- 어떤 위험이 와도 너를 지켜줄게.eotteon wiheomi wado neoreul jikyeojulge.I will protect you no matter what danger comes.
- 걱정하지 마, 내가 너를 지켜줄게.geokjeonghaji ma, naega neoreul jikyeojulge.Don't worry, I will protect you.
Example conversation
A boy comforts a girl who is scared of the dark.
- 수빈 Su-bin너무 무서워.neomu museowo.I'm so scared.
- 지훈 Ji-hun걱정 마, 내가 너를 지켜줄게.geokjeong ma, naega neoreul jikyeojulge.Don't worry, I will protect you.
- 수빈 Su-bin정말이지?jeongmariji?Really?
- 지훈 Ji-hun응, 약속할게.eung, yaksokhalge.Yes, I promise.
