약속 vs 서약
Korean word comparison
Listen to 약속
Listen to 서약
| 약속 | 서약 |
|---|---|
/yak-SOK/ noun | /seo-yak/ noun |
| a promise or an appointment/arrangement between people | a solemn oath or pledge (formal, often ceremonial or legal) |
How they differ
서약 implies a solemn, formal, or ceremonial vow (e.g., oath of office, wedding vows) and carries a stronger sense of ritual or legal gravity than 약속, which can be casual or everyday. 서약 is rarely used for ordinary meetups or casual promises.
When to use each
When to use 약속: Prefer 약속 for everyday commitments, casual promises, or meeting arrangements among friends, family, or colleagues.
When to use 서약: Use 서약 when describing formal pledges, legal or ceremonial oaths, or solemn vows that have public or moral weight.
Side-by-side examples
- 선약이 있어서 그 약속을 지킬 수가 없어.
(I have a prior engagement, so I can't keep that promise/appointment.) - 신임 장관은 의회에서 충성 서약을 했다.
(The new minister took an oath of loyalty in parliament.)
Register & nuance: 서약 is formal, elevated, and often used in legal, religious, or ceremonial contexts rather than everyday speech.