Korean Dictionary
How to say "Jealousy" in Korean
“Jealousy” in Korean is 질투 (pronounced "jiltu").
질투
jiltu
Usage & Context
A feeling of insecurity or resentment when a partner shows interest in others. A common emotion discussed in Korean dramas and relationship advice.
Example Sentence
나는 질투심이 많아.
I am very jealous.
How to use 질투 naturally
Quick answer
The Korean word for “Jealousy” is 질투, romanized as jiltu.
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 질투.
Pronunciation Guide
The first syllable, '질' (jil), sounds like the English name 'Jill'. The second syllable, '투' (tu), is pronounced like 'too' but with a slightly tighter 't' sound, almost like 'tuh'. The stress is fairly even across both syllables.
More Example Sentences
A person expressing jealousy in a dating scenario.
내 남자친구가 다른 여자랑 얘기하는 걸 보면 질투가 나.
When I see my boyfriend talking to other girls, I get jealous.
Reflecting on feelings of envy towards a friend's achievements.
친구의 성공에 질투를 느끼는 건 자연스러운 감정이야.
It's a natural feeling to feel jealous of a friend's success.
Describing a child's reaction to a sibling getting something new.
그녀는 동생이 새 장난감을 받아서 질투심에 울었다.
She cried out of jealousy because her younger sibling got a new toy.
Cultural Context
질투 (jiltu) is a common theme in K-dramas, often used to create dramatic tension in love triangles or rivalries. While excessive jealousy is generally seen as unhealthy, a touch of 'cute jealousy' (귀여운 질투, gwiyeoun jiltu) can sometimes be perceived as a sign of affection in romantic relationships, indicating that one cares deeply. However, it's a fine line, and possessive behavior is not condoned.
Editorial note
We check relationship words like 질투 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
질투 나.
I'm jealous.
질투하지 마.
Don't be jealous.
질투심이 많다.
To be very jealous.
Related Expressions
시기
sigi
Envy (often more about coveting what others have)
부러움
bureoum
Envy/Admiration (can be positive, e.g., 'I'm envious of your talent')
질투하다
jiltuhada
To be jealous (verb form)
질투심
jiltusim
Feeling of jealousy
More Relationships Words
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