Korean Dictionary
How to say "Compliment" in Korean
“Compliment” in Korean is 칭찬 (pronounced "chingchan").
칭찬
chingchan
Usage & Context
Expressing admiration or praise for someone. Compliments are a way to show appreciation and affection in Korean relationships.
Example Sentence
나는 너를 칭찬하고 싶어.
I want to compliment you.
How to use 칭찬 naturally
Quick answer
The Korean word for “Compliment” is 칭찬, romanized as chingchan.
Usage tip
Relationship words can sound too direct if the social context is wrong. Check the age, closeness, and formality before using it.
Common mistake
Do not rely only on the English meaning. Read the Korean example sentence and notice the particles, word order, and politeness level around 칭찬.
Pronunciation Guide
The first syllable, 'ching', sounds like 'sing' but with a 'ch' at the beginning. The second syllable, 'chan', is like 'chon' in 'chancellor' but with a softer 'a' sound, similar to 'ah'. The stress is fairly even on both syllables.
More Example Sentences
Complimenting a friend's outfit.
네 옷 정말 예쁘다! 칭찬해 주고 싶었어.
Your clothes are really pretty! I wanted to compliment you.
Discussing team morale in a workplace setting.
팀원들의 노고에 대한 칭찬이 필요해요.
We need praise for the team members' hard work.
Recalling a supportive teacher.
선생님은 항상 학생들을 칭찬하며 격려해주셨다.
The teacher always complimented and encouraged the students.
Cultural Context
In Korean culture, receiving a direct compliment often elicits a modest response, such as '아니에요' (No, not at all) or '별말씀을요' (Don't mention it), rather than a simple 'thank you'. This is rooted in humility. However, younger generations are becoming more comfortable with direct acceptance. Compliments on effort and hard work are highly valued.
Editorial note
We check relationship words like 칭찬 against age, closeness, and politeness rules, because a literal English match often misses the social meaning.
Reviewed by Min-jung Park, Korean Language Teacher. Updated May 31, 2026. See our editorial standards.
Common Phrases
칭찬을 받다
To receive a compliment
칭찬을 아끼지 않다
To not spare compliments
칭찬할 만하다
To be worthy of praise
Related Expressions
칭찬하다
chingchanhada
To compliment, to praise
격려
gyeongnyeo
Encouragement
비난
binan
Criticism (antonym)
꾸중
kkujung
Scolding (antonym)
More Relationships Words
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