TOPIK · Level 301
15 words
Korean word
사나이
Pronunciation
Romanizationsanai
Meaning
- nounman
Example
그는 사나이답게 약속을 지켰다.keu neun sa na i dap kke yak sso geul chi kyeot tta
He kept his promise like a man.
More examples
한 사나이는 가족을 먼저 생각한다.han sa na i neun ka jo geul meon jeo saeng ga kan da
A real man puts his family first.
Core concept
A man whose actions show personal honor, determination, and loyalty rather than merely an adult male.
Common phrases
한 사나이han sa na i
a real man
사나이답게sa na i dap kke
like a man
Similar words
남자namja: An everyday word for a male person, regardless of age or position.
남성namseong: A neutral, somewhat formal word for a male person.
사내sanae: A familiar or literary way to refer to a man with a strong presence.
Definition in Korean
한 사람의 남성을 뜻하는 말로, 특히 의리나 기개가 있는 사람을 가리키는 명사han sa ra mui nam seong eul tteu ta neun mal lo teu ki ui ri na ki gae ga in neun sa ra meul ka ri ki neun myeong sa
Word origin
The word is a native Korean form related to an older term for man, with usage adding the idea of a notably strong character.
Usage tips
- English-speaking learners can treat it as a character-based compliment, while remembering that modern speakers may prefer more neutral wording in some contexts.
Other meanings
- man of characternoun
- real mannoun
Opposites
- 겁쟁이keopjjaengicowardnoun
Related words
- 사나이답다sanaidapttamanlyadjective