깔끔하다 (kkal-kkeum-ha-da, kkalkkeumhada) · 지저분하다 (ji-jeo-bun-ha-da, jijeobunhada)
깔끔하다 describes a neat and clean state, while 지저분하다 refers to a messy and dirty condition.
One lane per word — no nested boxes, just the gist.
Indicates a neat, tidy, and clean condition.
When to use
Organized room, Neat outfit, Clean restaurant
The nuance
Use 깔끔하다 when describing objects, places, or people that are organized and clean. It carries a positive connotation.
Describes a messy, dirty, or disorderly state.
When to use
Untidy room, Dirty clothes, Messy desk
The nuance
Use 지저분하다 when something or someone looks messy, dirty, or disorganized. It has a negative nuance.
방이 깔끔하다.
bang-i kkal-kkeum-ha-da., bang i kkal kkeum ha da.
The room is tidy and clean, so 깔끔하다 is appropriate.
방이 지저분하다.
bang-i ji-jeo-bun-ha-da., bang i ji jeo bun ha da.
The room is messy and disorganized, so 지저분하다 fits.
옷이 깔끔하다.
os-i kkal-kkeum-ha-da., os i kkal kkeum ha da.
The outfit is neat and clean, so 깔끔하다 is correct.
옷이 지저분하다.
os-i ji-jeo-bun-ha-da., os i ji jeo bun ha da.
Use 지저분하다 when clothes are dirty or messy.
책상이 깔끔하다.
chaek-sang-i kkal-kkeum-ha-da., chaek sang i kkal kkeum ha da.
The desk is organized and clean, so 깔끔하다 is appropriate.
책상이 지저분하다.
chaek-sang-i ji-jeo-bun-ha-da., chaek sang i ji jeo bun ha da.
The desk is messy and disorganized, so 지저분하다 fits.
지저분한 옷차림이 좋아요.
ji-jeo-bun-han os-cha-rim-i joh-a-yo., ji jeo bun han os cha rim i joh a yo.
Messy outfit is negative and usually not preferred; 깔끔한 옷차림 is correct.
깔끔한 방이 싫어요.
kkal-kkeum-han bang-i sil-eo-yo., kkal kkeum han bang i sil eo yo.
A neat room is positive, so saying you dislike it is odd; better to say you dislike a messy room.
Which expression describes a clean and organized room?
Which word do you use when clothes are dirty and messy?
How do you describe a desk that is organized and clean?
