Korean Dictionary
How to say "Tender" in Korean
“Tender” in Korean is 부드럽다 (pronounced "Budeureopda").
부드럽다
Budeureopda
Usage & Context
Conveys gentleness in both emotional and physical contexts. 부드러운 말 (tender words) and 부드러운 표정 (tender expression) are common phrases. Describes soft touches, gentle voices, and caring behaviors in Korean relationships.
Example Sentence
아이에게 부드럽게 말해 주세요.
Please speak tenderly to the child.
How to use 부드럽다 naturally
Quick answer
The Korean word for “Tender” is 부드럽다, romanized as Budeureopda.
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 부드럽다.
Pronunciation Guide
Pronounced "Boo-duh-reop-dah." "Boo" sounds like "boo" in "boo-hoo." "Duh" sounds like "duh" in "duh-duh-duh." "Reop" sounds like "re-up" but with a soft 'l' sound for 'r' and a quick 'p' at the end. "Dah" sounds like "dah" in "dah-ling."
Formal & Casual Forms
Formal (존댓말)
부드럽습니다
Budeureopseumnida
This is the formal declarative form, used in polite and respectful situations.
Casual (반말)
부드러워
Budeureowo
This is the casual declarative form, used with close friends or subordinates.
More Example Sentences
Complimenting food at a restaurant.
이 스테이크는 정말 부드러워요.
This steak is really tender.
Describing someone's gentle demeanor.
그녀는 항상 부드러운 미소를 짓는다.
She always gives a tender smile.
Describing a cozy scene.
아기가 부드러운 이불 속에서 잠들었어요.
The baby fell asleep in a soft blanket.
Cultural Context
"부드럽다" is a versatile adjective in Korean, used for both physical softness (like fabric, food) and emotional gentleness (voice, touch, personality). In relationships, especially romantic or familial ones, a "부드러운 사람" (a tender/gentle person) is often seen as a desirable trait, conveying warmth and care. K-dramas frequently portray male leads who, despite an initial cold exterior, reveal a "부드러운" side to their loved ones.
Editorial note
We review entries like 부드럽다 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
부드러운 목소리
A tender/soft voice
부드러운 살결
Soft skin
부드러운 카리스마
Gentle charisma (a common compliment for leaders)
Related Expressions
연하다
yeonhada
Soft, tender (often used for food, color, or young age)
말랑하다
mallanghada
Soft, squishy (often for texture like mochi or dough)
딱딱하다
ttakttakhada
Hard, stiff (antonym)
거칠다
geochilda
Rough, coarse (antonym)
More Emotions Words
Master Korean with AI-Powered Learning
Practice Tender and 10,000+ words with native pronunciation and AI conversation.
