Korean Dictionary
How to say "Thick" in Korean
“Thick” in Korean is 두꺼운 (pronounced "Dukkeooun").
두꺼운
Dukkeooun
Usage & Context
Dukkeooun is the Korean word for thick. Thickness is an important attribute in Korean design and art. It represents strength and substance.
Example Sentence
두꺼운 선이 눈에 띄어요.
The thick line stands out.
How to use 두꺼운 naturally
Quick answer
The Korean word for “Thick” is 두꺼운, romanized as Dukkeooun.
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 두꺼운.
Pronunciation Guide
두 (Du) sounds like 'doo' in 'door' but shorter. 꺼 (kkeo) sounds like 'kkuh' with a tense 'k' (like a hard 'g' but unvoiced) and 'eo' like 'u' in 'but'. 운 (un) sounds like 'oon' in 'moon'. The 'kk' is a tense consonant, making it sharper.
Formal & Casual Forms
Formal (존댓말)
두껍습니다
Dukkeopseumnida
Formal polite form of 'to be thick'.
Casual (반말)
두꺼워
Dukkeowo
Casual form of 'to be thick'.
More Example Sentences
Giving advice about winter clothing.
겨울에는 두꺼운 외투를 입어야 해요.
In winter, you should wear a thick coat.
Complaining about a long book.
이 책은 정말 두꺼워서 다 읽기 힘들어요.
This book is so thick, it's hard to read it all.
Expressing a preference for food preparation.
삼겹살은 두꺼워야 제맛이죠!
Pork belly tastes best when it's thick-cut!
Cultural Context
'두꺼운' (Dukkeooun) often implies warmth, comfort, and quality in Korean culture. For instance, a '두꺼운 이불' (dukkeooun ibul - thick blanket) is highly valued for a cozy sleep, especially during cold winters. In food, like '삼겹살' (samgyeopsal - pork belly), a thicker cut is often preferred for a richer taste and texture, showcasing how thickness can be a mark of indulgence or quality.
Editorial note
We review entries like 두꺼운 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
두꺼운 옷
thick clothes
두꺼운 책
thick book
두꺼운 이불
thick blanket
Related Expressions
굵은
Gulgeun
thick (for cylindrical objects like ropes, lines)
얇은
Yalbeun
thin
튼튼한
Teunteunhan
sturdy, strong
두께
Dukke
thickness (noun)
More Colors and Shapes Words
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