What does 느긋하다 mean?
느긋하다 (neu-geut-ha-da) means: Relaxed, unhurried, and perfectly at ease.
In Korea's 'Pali-pali' (hurry hurry) culture, being '느긋하다' can be both a blessing and a curse. It means you don't panic under pressure, but it can also drive your impatient coworkers completely insane.
🎙️ 느긋하다는 표기 그대로 읽지 않아요 — 실제로는 [느그타다]로 소리나요 (격음화). 발음 연습하기 →
How it's actually used
- 주말인데 오늘 일정은 없으니까 느긋하게 보내자.
jumarin-de oneul iljeong-eun eup-unikka neugeutage bonaeja.
It's the weekend and we have nothing planned today, so let's take it easy.
💡 Used to suggest taking things slow without rushing. - 시험이 코앞인데 다들 왜 이렇게 느긋하지?
siheomi kohapin-de dadeul wae ireoke neugeuthaji?
The exam is right around the corner, why is everyone so relaxed?
💡 Can express mild frustration at someone's lack of urgency. - 다들 마감 시간에 쫓겨 뛰어다니는데 혼자서만 아주 느긋하더라고요.
dadeul magam sigane jjo-gyeo ttwieodanineun-de honjaseoman aju neugeutadoragoyo.
Everyone was running around chased by the deadline, but he alone looked completely relaxed.
💡 Highlights a calm, unbothered attitude in a high-pressure situation.