Korean Dictionary
How to say "Determined" in Korean
“Determined” in Korean is 결연하다 (pronounced "Gyeoryeonhada").
결연하다
Gyeoryeonhada
Usage & Context
Describes an unwavering resolve in the face of obstacles. Frequently used in motivational speeches, sports commentary, and academic contexts in Korea. The phrase 결연한 의지 (determined will) is common in Korean inspirational content.
Example Sentence
어떤 어려움이 있어도 결연한 의지로 나아갈게요.
No matter what difficulties arise, I will move forward with determined will.
How to use 결연하다 naturally
Quick answer
The Korean word for “Determined” is 결연하다, romanized as Gyeoryeonhada.
Usage tip
Learn this word together with a complete Korean sentence. Meaning often depends on particles, politeness level, and word order.
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 결연하다.
Pronunciation Guide
결 (gyeol) sounds like 'gyul' in 'gull' but with a 'y' sound before the 'u'. 연 (yeon) is like 'yon' in 'beyond'. 하 (ha) is like 'ha' in 'haha', and 다 (da) is like 'da' in 'dad'. The 'ㄹ' (r/l) sound in '결' is a light 'r' sound.
Formal & Casual Forms
Formal (존댓말)
결연합니다 / 결연해요
Gyeoryeonhamnida / Gyeoryeonhaeyo
결연합니다 is more formal, 결연해요 is standard polite.
Casual (반말)
결연해
Gyeoryeonhae
Used with close friends or those younger than you.
More Example Sentences
Describing someone's strong resolve towards an objective.
그는 목표 달성을 위해 결연한 의지를 보였다.
He showed a determined will to achieve his goal.
Referring to someone's steadfastness in adversity.
어려운 상황 속에서도 결연한 태도로 임했다.
Even in a difficult situation, he approached it with a determined attitude.
Observing athletes in a competitive setting.
결연한 표정으로 경기에 임하는 선수들이 인상 깊었다.
The players entering the game with determined expressions were impressive.
Cultural Context
결연하다 (determined) is often used in more formal or serious contexts in Korea, such as motivational speeches, news reports, or literature, emphasizing an unwavering resolve. The phrase '결연한 의지' (determined will) is particularly common and evokes a strong sense of purpose, often used in inspirational or even patriotic contexts. While '단호하다' (resolute) might be used more casually, '결연하다' conveys a deeper, more profound sense of determination.
Editorial note
We review entries like 결연하다 for pronunciation, example sentence fit, and learner mistakes so the page answers more than a direct dictionary lookup.
Reviewed by Min-jung Park, Korean Language Teacher. Updated May 31, 2026. See our editorial standards.
Common Phrases
결연한 의지
determined will
결연한 태도
a determined attitude
결연한 표정
a determined expression
Related Expressions
단호하다
Danhohada
to be resolute, firm (synonym, often implies a strong stance)
굳건하다
Gutgeonhada
to be firm, steadfast (synonym, often implies physical or mental strength)
우유부단하다
Uyubudanhada
to be indecisive (antonym)
결연한 의지
Gyeoryeonhan uiji
determined will (common phrase, almost a synonym itself)
More Emotions Words
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