Korean Dictionary
How to say "Trust" in Korean
“Trust” in Korean is 신뢰 (pronounced "Siloe").
신뢰
Siloe
Usage & Context
Faith and reliability in a relationship. 신뢰하다 means to trust. In Korean relationships, 믿음 (faith/belief) and 신뢰 (trust) are distinct concepts — 믿음 is more emotional trust, while 신뢰 is more structural trust built over time. Betraying trust (신뢰를 깨다) is considered a serious relationship offense.
Example Sentence
좋은 관계는 서로에 대한 신뢰가 기본이에요.
Trust in each other is the foundation of a good relationship.
How to use 신뢰 naturally
Quick answer
The Korean word for “Trust” is 신뢰, romanized as Siloe.
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 신뢰.
Pronunciation Guide
Pronounce '신뢰' as 'Sil-lweh'. 'Sil' sounds like 'sill' in 'silly'. 'Loe' is a bit tricky; the 'oe' vowel is often pronounced like 'weh' or 'eh' in modern Korean. So, 'lweh' is like 'l' followed by 'way'. The stress is on the first syllable, 'sil'.
More Example Sentences
Describing a respected person in a professional setting.
그는 동료들로부터 깊은 신뢰를 얻고 있어요.
He earns deep trust from his colleagues.
Discussing the fragility of relationships.
서로에 대한 신뢰가 깨지면 관계는 유지하기 힘들어요.
If trust in each other is broken, it's hard to maintain the relationship.
A business owner or manager emphasizing customer relations.
고객들의 신뢰를 얻는 것이 가장 중요합니다.
Earning customers' trust is the most important thing.
Cultural Context
In Korean, '신뢰' (trust) and '믿음' (faith/belief) are distinct. '믿음' often refers to a more emotional, personal belief or faith in someone's character or intentions, while '신뢰' implies a more structural, reliable trust built on consistent actions, competence, and integrity, often in professional or long-term relationships. Betraying '신뢰' (신뢰를 깨다, 'silloereul kkaeda') is considered a serious offense, as it damages the foundation of a relationship, whether personal or professional. It's a key element in forming lasting bonds.
Editorial note
We check relationship words like 신뢰 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
신뢰를 쌓다
To build trust
신뢰가 깨지다
Trust is broken
신뢰 관계
Trusting relationship
Related Expressions
믿음
Mideum
Faith, belief (more emotional)
신용
Sinyong
Credit, trustworthiness (often financial/business)
의심
Uisim
Doubt, suspicion
배신
Baesin
Betrayal
More Relationships Words
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