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A1 noun #1,500 الأكثر شيوعاً 9 دقيقة للقراءة

사진

sajin الأكثر شيوعاً #1,500

At the A1 level, the word 사진 (sa-jin) is introduced as one of the most basic and essential nouns for daily life. It simply means 'picture' or 'photo'. As a beginner, your primary goal is to learn how to identify a photo and how to use it with the most common verb: 찍다 (to take). You will learn phrases like '사진을 찍어요' (I take a picture) and '사진을 봐요' (I look at a picture). It is crucial to understand that in Korean, you must use the object particle 을 (eul) after 사진 when it is the object of these verbs. You will also learn to use it with basic adjectives, such as '예쁜 사진' (pretty picture) or '큰 사진' (big picture). At this stage, practicing simple requests is highly beneficial. For example, learning to say '사진 찍어 주세요' (Please take a picture) will be incredibly useful if you ever travel to Korea or interact with Korean speakers. You should also be able to answer simple questions like '이것이 무엇입니까?' (What is this?) with '사진입니다' (It is a picture). Mastering this word at the A1 level sets the foundation for discussing hobbies, memories, and daily activities as you progress in your language learning journey. The focus is entirely on practical, immediate communication needs regarding visual memories.

At the A2 level, your understanding and usage of 사진 expand beyond simple statements. You will start combining 사진 with more complex grammatical structures and a wider variety of verbs. Instead of just saying 'I take a picture', you will learn to express intentions, past experiences, and locations. For example, you can say '어제 공원에서 친구와 사진을 찍었어요' (I took a picture with a friend at the park yesterday) or '내일 바다에서 사진을 찍고 싶어요' (I want to take a picture at the beach tomorrow). You will also learn vocabulary related to different types of photos, such as 가족 사진 (family photo), 졸업 사진 (graduation photo), and 여권 사진 (passport photo). Furthermore, you will begin to describe the state of a photo using verbs like 나오다 (to come out). Learning the phrase '사진이 잘 나왔어요' (The picture came out well) is a key milestone at this level, as it is a very common natural expression. You will also practice using conjunctions to connect sentences, such as '사진을 찍고 나서 밥을 먹었어요' (After taking a picture, we ate). The A2 level focuses on adding detail and context to your conversations about photos, making your Korean sound much more natural and descriptive.

At the B1 level, 사진 becomes a tool for expressing personal opinions, sharing detailed experiences, and discussing hobbies more fluently. You will be able to talk about photography as an interest, using terms like 취미 (hobby) and 사진기 (camera). You might say, '제 취미는 풍경 사진을 찍는 것입니다' (My hobby is taking landscape photos). At this stage, you will also learn vocabulary related to digital interactions with photos, such as 올리다 (to upload), 지우다 (to delete), and 공유하다 (to share). For instance, '인스타그램에 여행 사진을 올렸어요' (I uploaded travel photos to Instagram). You will be able to explain the background story of a photo in detail, using relative clauses to describe the photo: '이것은 제가 작년에 제주도에서 찍은 사진이에요' (This is a picture I took in Jeju Island last year). Additionally, you will start to understand and use common colloquialisms and slang related to photos, such as 인생샷 (best photo of one's life). The B1 level empowers you to use 사진 not just to state facts, but to narrate stories, express emotions attached to memories, and engage in modern digital communication effectively.

At the B2 level, your usage of 사진 becomes highly nuanced and culturally informed. You are no longer just talking about taking pictures; you are discussing the culture of photography in Korea. You can engage in conversations about the popularity of photo booths (인생네컷), the importance of highly retouched ID photos (증명사진) for job applications, and the social media trends surrounding aesthetic photography. You will use advanced vocabulary related to photo editing, such as 보정하다 (to retouch/edit), 필터를 적용하다 (to apply a filter), and 인화하다 (to print). You might discuss the ethics or social impact of heavily edited photos: '요즘은 사진 보정 기술이 너무 발달해서 실물과 다른 경우가 많아요' (These days, photo editing technology is so advanced that there are many cases where the photo is different from the real person). You will also be able to use 사진 metaphorically or in abstract contexts, such as '기억을 사진처럼 머릿속에 저장하다' (to store memories in one's head like a photograph). At this level, your fluency allows you to debate, analyze, and express complex thoughts regarding visual media, demonstrating a deep understanding of both the language and the cultural context surrounding photography in modern Korean society.

At the C1 level, the word 사진 is utilized within sophisticated, academic, or professional discourse. You can read and comprehend articles, critiques, and essays about photography as an art form, journalism, or historical documentation. You will encounter and use specialized terminology such as 구도 (composition), 조명 (lighting), 노출 (exposure), and 피사체 (subject). You might analyze a famous photograph's impact on society, saying, '이 보도 사진은 당시의 참혹한 전쟁 상황을 여과 없이 보여주며 대중의 여론을 움직였습니다' (This press photo showed the gruesome situation of the war at the time without filtering, moving public opinion). You will be comfortable discussing copyright issues (저작권) related to images and the legal implications of unauthorized photography (초상권 침해 - invasion of portrait rights). Your ability to use complex grammatical structures allows you to articulate subtle differences in meaning, such as contrasting the objective reality captured by a lens with the subjective interpretation of the viewer. At the C1 level, 사진 is not just a vocabulary word; it is a subject of critical analysis, artistic appreciation, and professional communication, reflecting a near-native command of the language.

At the C2 level, your mastery of the word 사진 and its related concepts is indistinguishable from that of a highly educated native speaker. You can seamlessly navigate philosophical, literary, and highly technical discussions regarding photography. You might explore the ontological nature of a photograph, discussing how it freezes time and alters human memory, perhaps referencing concepts like simulacra or the aura of an original work. You can effortlessly comprehend and produce complex literary metaphors involving photos, such as '빛바랜 흑백 사진 속에 갇힌 찬란했던 청춘의 파편들' (the fragments of a radiant youth trapped in a faded black-and-white photograph). In professional settings, you could lead a seminar on the evolution of digital imaging technology or draft legal documents concerning intellectual property rights of photographic works. You are fully attuned to the subtlest cultural, historical, and emotional resonances of the word in any given context. At this pinnacle of language proficiency, 사진 serves as a gateway to exploring profound themes of truth, memory, representation, and human existence, demonstrating absolute linguistic and cultural fluency.

تدرّب عليها أمثلة ملاحظات ونصائح

사진 في 30 ثانية

A visual image taken with a camera.
Used with the verb 찍다 (to take).
Essential for discussing memories and social media.
Distinct from 그림 (drawing/painting).

The Korean word 사진 (sa-jin) is a fundamental noun that translates to 'picture' or 'photograph' in English. It is an essential vocabulary word for learners at the A1 level and is used daily in both spoken and written Korean. The word originates from Hanja, where 寫 (sa) means 'to copy' or 'to reproduce', and 眞 (jin) means 'truth' or 'reality'. Therefore, the literal translation of 사진 is 'reproducing reality', which beautifully captures the essence of what a photograph is. In modern Korean society, photography is deeply embedded in the culture, from casual smartphone snaps to professional studio portraits. Understanding how to use this word opens up numerous conversational pathways, especially when discussing hobbies, memories, travel, and social media.

Literal Meaning: Reproducing reality (寫眞).

이것은 제 가족 사진입니다.

When you want to talk about taking a picture, the most common verb used with 사진 is 찍다 (jjik-da), which means 'to take' or 'to stamp'. The phrase 사진을 찍다 (sajin-eul jjik-da) is the standard way to say 'take a picture'. You will hear this phrase constantly at tourist attractions, cafes, and family gatherings. Another important verb is 보다 (bo-da), meaning 'to see' or 'to look at'. You can say 사진을 보다 (sajin-eul bo-da) when you are looking through a photo album or scrolling through your phone's gallery.

Core Verb Collocation: 사진을 찍다 (To take a picture)

친구와 함께 사진을 찍었어요.

Beyond just taking and looking at pictures, the word 사진 is used in various compound words. For example, 사진기 (sa-jin-gi) means 'camera' (though '카메라' is more commonly used today), and 사진관 (sa-jin-gwan) means 'photo studio'. In Korea, photo studios are still very popular for taking official identification photos, known as 증명사진 (jeung-myeong-sa-jin), which are required for resumes, passports, and ID cards. The culture of taking high-quality, heavily retouched ID photos is a unique aspect of modern Korean society.

Compound Word: 사진관 (Photo studio)

여권 사진을 찍으러 사진관에 갔어요.

Furthermore, with the rise of digital photography and social media, new slang and expressions have emerged. For instance, '인생 사진' (in-saeng sa-jin), often shortened to '인생샷' (in-saeng-syat), refers to the 'best photo of one's life'—a picture that turns out exceptionally well. Young people frequently visit aesthetic cafes or scenic spots specifically to capture their 인생샷. Understanding these cultural nuances makes the word 사진 much more than just a simple translation of 'picture'; it is a gateway to understanding Korean social behaviors and trends.

제주도에서 인생 사진을 건졌어요.

이 사진 정말 잘 나왔네요!

Using the word 사진 correctly involves mastering its associated verbs, particles, and common sentence structures. Because 사진 is a noun, it must be followed by appropriate grammatical particles depending on its role in the sentence. When it is the object of an action, such as taking, looking at, or deleting a photo, it takes the object particle 을 (eul). Thus, you will frequently see 사진을 (sajin-eul). When it is the subject of a descriptive sentence, such as stating that a photo is pretty or blurry, it takes the subject particle 이 (i) or the topic particle 은 (eun). For example, 사진이 예뻐요 (The picture is pretty) or 이 사진은 옛날 사진이에요 (This picture is an old picture).

Object Particle Usage: 사진을 + Action Verb (찍다, 보다, 지우다)

저는 매일 풍경 사진을 찍습니다.

One of the most common ways to use 사진 is in requests. When traveling in Korea, you might want to ask a stranger to take a photo of you. The polite and standard way to ask is '사진 (좀) 찍어 주시겠어요?' (Would you please take a picture?). The word '좀' (a little) softens the request, making it sound more polite. You can also use the slightly less formal but still polite '사진 찍어 주세요' (Please take a picture). If you want to offer to take a picture for someone else, you can say '사진 찍어 드릴까요?' (Shall I take a picture for you?). These phrases are incredibly useful and will make your interactions in Korea much smoother.

Making Requests: 사진 좀 찍어 주시겠어요? (Polite request)

저기요, 저희 사진 좀 찍어 주시겠어요?

Another important aspect of using 사진 is describing how a photo turned out. In English, we might say 'The picture came out well'. In Korean, the exact same concept is expressed using the verb 나오다 (to come out). You say '사진이 잘 나왔어요' (The picture came out well). If someone looks better in photos than in real life, you can say they are '사진발이 잘 받다' (to take photos well / be photogenic). Conversely, if a photo is blurry, you can say '사진이 흔들렸어요' (The picture is shaken/blurry). Knowing these descriptive phrases allows you to comment naturally on photos shared by friends or family.

Describing Photos: 사진이 잘 나오다 (To come out well)

우와, 이 사진 정말 잘 나왔다!

눈을 감아서 이 사진은 지울게요.

인스타그램에 사진을 올렸어요.

The word 사진 is ubiquitous in Korean daily life, and you will encounter it in a wide variety of contexts, ranging from casual conversations among friends to formal administrative settings. One of the most common places you will hear this word is at tourist attractions, cafes, and restaurants. Korea has a vibrant cafe culture, and taking photos of aesthetically pleasing drinks, desserts, and interiors is a standard practice. You will often hear people saying, '먹기 전에 사진부터 찍자!' (Let's take a picture before we eat!). This highlights how photography has become an integral part of experiencing and sharing moments in modern Korean society.

Cafe Culture: Taking photos of food before eating is a cultural norm.

음식 사진을 예쁘게 찍어주세요.

Another prominent setting where you will hear the word 사진 is in the context of '인생네컷' (Life Four Cuts) or similar self-photo booths. These photo booths have exploded in popularity across South Korea. They are equipped with fun props, various background colors, and flattering lighting. Friends, couples, and even families visit these booths to capture spontaneous, fun moments. The printed photo strips are cherished keepsakes. In this environment, you will hear phrases like '우리 사진 찍으러 가자' (Let's go take pictures) or '이 사진 너무 귀엽다' (This picture is so cute). The physical printout itself is referred to as a 사진.

Photo Booths: 인생네컷 (Life Four Cuts) is a popular photo booth franchise.

친구들과 네 컷 사진을 찍었어요.

In more formal or administrative contexts, the word 사진 is crucial when applying for jobs, visas, or official documents. The term 증명사진 (ID photo) is used frequently. When you visit a photo studio (사진관), the photographer will guide your posture and expression to ensure the photo meets official requirements. They might say, '고개를 약간 숙이세요' (Please lower your head slightly) while preparing to take the 사진. Furthermore, in the digital realm, you will constantly see the word 사진 on social media platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and KakaoTalk. Uploading a photo is '사진을 올리다', and sending a photo via message is '사진을 보내다'.

Official Documents: 증명사진 (ID photo) is required for resumes and passports.

이력서에 붙일 사진이 필요해요.

카카오톡으로 사진을 보냈어요.

프로필 사진을 바꾸고 싶어요.

While 사진 is a relatively straightforward noun, learners often make mistakes regarding the verbs that collocate with it, the particles used, and distinguishing it from similar words like 그림 (picture/painting) or 동영상 (video). The most frequent error is using the wrong verb for 'taking' a picture. In English, we say 'take a picture', and learners sometimes try to translate 'take' literally using verbs like 가지다 (to have/take) or 받다 (to receive). However, the only correct verb for capturing a photograph is 찍다 (jjik-da). Saying '사진을 가지다' sounds unnatural and means physically possessing a printed photo, not the act of photographing.

Verb Error: Do not use 가지다 or 하다. Use 찍다.

[Correct] 사진을 찍다.

Another common mistake involves confusing 사진 with 그림 (geu-rim). In English, the word 'picture' can refer to both a photograph and a drawn or painted image. For example, a child might draw a 'picture'. In Korean, these two concepts are strictly separated. 사진 exclusively refers to a photograph taken with a camera. 그림 exclusively refers to a drawing, painting, or illustration. If you point to a beautiful watercolor painting and say '이 사진 예쁘다' (This photo is pretty), it will cause confusion. You must use 그림 for drawn art and 사진 for camera-captured images.

Vocabulary Confusion: 사진 (Photograph) vs. 그림 (Drawing/Painting)

아이가 그린 것은 사진이 아니라 그림입니다.

Learners also sometimes struggle with the pronunciation of 사진. The first syllable 사 (sa) is a plain consonant sound, while the second syllable 진 (jin) has a 'j' sound. Some learners might accidentally pronounce it with a tense consonant '싸진' (ssajin) or aspirate the 'j' to '친' (chin). Practicing the smooth, relaxed pronunciation of the plain 'ㅅ' and 'ㅈ' is important for sounding natural. Additionally, when using particles, remember that 사진 ends in a consonant (ㄴ), so it takes 은 (topic) or 이 (subject) or 을 (object). Using 는, 가, or 를 is grammatically incorrect and immediately marks the speaker as a beginner.

Particle Error: Because it ends in a consonant, use 을/이/은.

[Incorrect] 사진를 찍다. -> [Correct] 사진을 찍다.

이 사진이 제일 마음에 들어요.

그 사진은 언제 찍었어요?

While 사진 is the most direct translation for 'photograph', there are several related words and synonyms that are useful to know as you expand your Korean vocabulary. Understanding the nuances between these words will help you communicate more precisely. A very common related word is 이미지 (i-mi-ji), which is the English loanword 'image'. While 사진 strictly refers to a photograph, 이미지 can refer to any visual representation, including digital graphics, logos, or even a person's reputation or 'image'. In digital contexts, such as downloading a file from the internet, you might see '이미지 저장' (save image) rather than '사진 저장'.

Comparison: 이미지: Broader term meaning 'image' (visual or conceptual).

인터넷에서 예쁜 사진(이미지)을 다운로드했어요.

Another word to consider is 영상 (yeong-sang) or 동영상 (dong-yeong-sang). While 사진 captures a single, still moment, 영상 refers to moving images or video. In the age of smartphones, people often switch between taking photos and recording videos. You might ask someone, '사진이에요, 동영상이에요?' (Is it a photo or a video?) when they are pointing a camera at you. Knowing the difference is crucial for everyday communication. Additionally, the word 화상 (hwa-sang) also means image or picture, but it is typically used in more technical or formal contexts, such as '화상 회의' (video conference) or '고해상도 화상' (high-resolution image).

Comparison: 동영상: Means 'video' or 'moving picture'.

사진 말고 동영상으로 찍어주세요.

Finally, as mentioned in the Common Mistakes section, 그림 (geu-rim) is a related concept but fundamentally different. It means a drawing or painting created by hand. If you visit an art museum, you are looking at 그림, not 사진 (unless it is a photography exhibition, which would be 사진전). By clearly distinguishing between 사진 (photograph), 그림 (drawing/painting), 동영상 (video), and 이미지 (image/graphic), you will demonstrate a solid grasp of Korean visual vocabulary and avoid confusing your listeners.

Comparison: 그림: Means 'drawing' or 'painting' (done by hand).

이것은 사진처럼 정교한 그림입니다.

주말에 유명한 사진전에 다녀왔어요.

이 사진은 포토샵으로 보정한 이미지 같아요.

How Formal Is It?

رسمي

مستوى الصعوبة

قواعد يجب معرفتها

أمثلة حسب المستوى

사진을 봅니다.

I look at the picture.

사진 (noun) + 을 (object particle) + 봅니다 (formal polite verb 'to see').

이것은 사진입니다.

This is a picture.

이것 (this) + 은 (topic particle) + 사진 (noun) + 입니다 (copula 'is').

사진을 찍어요.

I take a picture.

사진을 + 찍어요 (polite verb 'to take').

예쁜 사진이에요.

It is a pretty picture.

예쁜 (adjective 'pretty') + 사진 + 이에요 (copula 'is').

가족 사진이 있어요.

I have a family photo.

가족 (family) + 사진 + 이 (subject particle) + 있어요 (verb 'to have/exist').

사진이 큽니다.

The picture is big.

사진 + 이 (subject particle) + 큽니다 (formal polite adjective 'big').

사진을 주세요.

Please give me the picture.

사진을 + 주세요 (polite request 'please give').

친구 사진입니다.

It is a friend's picture.

친구 (friend) + 사진 + 입니다 (copula 'is').

어제 공원에서 사진을 찍었어요.

I took a picture at the park yesterday.

Past tense verb 찍었어요 and location particle 에서.

이 사진은 정말 잘 나왔네요.

This picture came out really well.

잘 나왔다 is the natural way to say a photo looks good.

여권 사진을 찍으러 사진관에 가요.

I am going to the photo studio to take a passport photo.

Verb + 으러 (in order to) + 가다 (to go).

사진을 찍고 나서 밥을 먹을 거예요.

After taking pictures, I will eat.

Verb + 고 나서 indicates sequence of actions.

제주도에서 찍은 사진을 보여주세요.

Please show me the pictures you took in Jeju Island.

찍은 modifies 사진 (pictures that were taken).

이것은 제가 제일 좋아하는 사진이에요.

This is my favorite picture.

제일 좋아하는 (most liked/favorite) modifying 사진.

사진이 너무 흔들려서 지웠어요.

The picture was too blurry, so I deleted it.

흔들리다 (to be shaken/blurry) + 아/어서 (reason).

저기서 같이 사진 찍을까요?

Shall we take a picture together over there?

Verb + 을까요? (Shall we...?).

제 취미는 필름 카메라로 풍경 사진을 찍는 것입니다.

My hobby is taking landscape photos with a film camera.

Noun + (으)로 (using a tool) and ~는 것 (gerund).

여행 가서 찍은 사진들을 인스타그램에 올렸어요.

I uploaded the photos I took on the trip to Instagram.

올리다 is the standard verb for uploading to the internet.

이 사진을 보면 옛날 학창 시절 추억이 떠올라요.

Looking at this photo brings back memories of my school days.

~으면 (if/when) and 추억이 떠오르다 (memories come to mind).

배경이 예뻐서 여기서 사진을 찍으면 인생샷을 건질 수 있을 거예요.

The background is pretty, so if we take a picture here, we can get a great shot.

인생샷 (best photo) and 건지다 (to obtain/rescue).

증명사진이 필요해서 내일 정장을 입고 사진관에 가야 해요.

I need an ID photo, so I have to wear a suit and go to the photo studio tomorrow.

~아/어야 하다 (must/have to).

친구들에게 카카오톡으로 단체 사진을 공유했습니다.

I shared the group photo with my friends via KakaoTalk.

단체 사진 (group photo) and 공유하다 (to share).

사진 용량이 너무 커서 이메일로 안 보내져요.

The photo file size is too big, so it won't send via email.

용량 (file size/capacity) and ~아/어지다 (passive).

벽에 걸려 있는 흑백 사진이 아주 멋스럽네요.

The black and white photo hanging on the wall looks very stylish.

~에 걸려 있다 (to be hanging on) and 흑백 사진 (B&W photo).

요즘은 스마트폰 카메라 성능이 워낙 좋아서 굳이 무거운 디지털 사진기를 들고 다닐 필요가 없습니다.

These days, smartphone camera performance is so good that there is no need to carry around a heavy digital camera.

~을 필요가 없다 (there is no need to).

이력서에 첨부할 사진은 포토샵으로 너무 과하게 보정하지 않는 것이 좋습니다.

It is better not to over-retouch the photo you will attach to your resume with Photoshop.

첨부하다 (to attach) and 보정하다 (to retouch/edit).

그녀는 우연히 찍힌 사진 한 장 덕분에 하루아침에 유명한 모델이 되었습니다.

Thanks to a single photo taken by chance, she became a famous model overnight.

찍히다 (passive of 찍다) and ~덕분에 (thanks to).

사진전에서 본 그 작품은 빛과 그림자의 대비를 완벽하게 포착해 냈습니다.

The artwork I saw at the photo exhibition perfectly captured the contrast between light and shadow.

대비 (contrast) and 포착하다 (to capture).

타인의 얼굴이 나온 사진을 동의 없이 인터넷에 유포하는 것은 초상권 침해에 해당합니다.

Distributing a photo showing another person's face on the internet without consent constitutes an invasion of portrait rights.

유포하다 (to distribute) and 초상권 침해 (invasion of portrait rights).

클라우드 저장소의 용량이 꽉 차서 오래된 사진들을 외장 하드로 백업해야 합니다.

The cloud storage is full, so I need to back up old photos to an external hard drive.

저장소 (storage) and 백업하다 (to back up).

전문 사진작가가 찍은 웨딩 사진은 확실히 구도와 색감이 남다르네요.

The wedding photos taken by a professional photographer definitely have a unique composition and color palette.

구도 (composition) and 색감 (color sense/palette).

길거리에서 사진을 찍을 때는 지나가는 사람들의 통행에 방해가 되지 않도록 주의해야 합니다.

When taking pictures on the street, you must be careful not to obstruct the passage of pedestrians.

방해가 되다 (to be an obstruction) and ~지 않도록 (so as not to).

이 보도 사진은 전쟁의 참상을 여과 없이 전달하며 국제 사회의 즉각적인 개입을 촉구하는 기폭제가 되었습니다.

This press photo conveyed the horrors of war without filtering, serving as a catalyst to urge immediate intervention from the international community.

보도 사진 (press photo), 참상 (horrors), 기폭제 (catalyst).

현대 예술 사진은 단순히 피사체를 재현하는 것을 넘어, 작가의 철학적 사유와 개념을 시각화하는 매체로 진화했습니다.

Modern art photography has evolved beyond simply reproducing the subject into a medium that visualizes the artist's philosophical reasoning and concepts.

피사체 (subject), 재현하다 (to reproduce), 사유 (reasoning/thought).

빛바랜 흑백 사진 한 장이 잊혀져 가던 한 시대의 집단 기억을 생생하게 소환해 내는 마력을 발휘하기도 합니다.

A single faded black-and-white photograph sometimes exerts the magical power to vividly summon the collective memory of an era that was being forgotten.

빛바랜 (faded), 집단 기억 (collective memory), 소환하다 (to summon).

디지털 이미지의 범람 속에서 아날로그 필름 사진이 다시 각광받는 현상은, 물질성과 기다림의 미학에 대한 현대인들의 향수병으로 해석될 수 있습니다.

The phenomenon of analog film photography regaining the spotlight amidst the flood of digital images can be interpreted as modern people's nostalgia for materiality and the aesthetics of waiting.

범람 (flood/overflow), 각광받다 (to be in the spotlight), 향수병 (nostalgia).

초상화가 인물의 내면적 권위를 묘사하는 데 치중했다면, 초기 인물 사진은 피사체의 객관적 실재를 증명하는 법적, 행정적 도구로 활용되었습니다.

While portraits focused on depicting the inner authority of a person, early portrait photography was utilized as a legal and administrative tool to prove the objective reality of the subject.

초상화 (portrait painting), 실재 (reality/existence), 행정적 (administrative).

저작권법상 사진 저작물로 인정받기 위해서는 기계적인 촬영을 넘어 피사체의 선정, 구도의 설정, 빛의 방향 등에서 촬영자의 창작성이 발현되어야 합니다.

To be recognized as a photographic work under copyright law, the photographer's creativity must be expressed in the selection of the subject, setting of the composition, and direction of light, going beyond mechanical shooting.

저작물 (copyrighted work), 창작성 (creativity), 발현되다 (to be expressed/manifested).

그녀의 다큐멘터리 사진 프로젝트는 소외된 도시 빈민들의 삶을 낭만화하지 않고 건조한 시선으로 담아내어 평단으로부터 극찬을 받았습니다.

Her documentary photography project received high praise from critics for capturing the lives of marginalized urban poor with a dry gaze without romanticizing them.

소외된 (marginalized), 낭만화하다 (to romanticize), 평단 (critics).

사진의 프레이밍은 필연적으로 프레임 밖의 현실을 배제하는 행위이므로, 모든 사진은 본질적으로 촬영자의 주관적인 선택과 편집의 결과물입니다.

Since the framing of a photograph is inevitably an act of excluding the reality outside the frame, every photograph is essentially the result of the photographer's subjective choice and editing.

프레이밍 (framing), 배제하다 (to exclude), 주관적인 (subjective).

롤랑 바르트가 언급한 '푼크툼(Punctum)'의 개념처럼, 이 사진의 한 구석에 우연히 찍힌 작은 디테일이 관람자의 감정을 예고 없이 찌르고 들어와 깊은 잔상을 남깁니다.

Like the concept of 'Punctum' mentioned by Roland Barthes, a small detail accidentally captured in a corner of this photograph pierces the viewer's emotions without warning and leaves a deep lingering image.

푼크툼 (Punctum), 예고 없이 (without warning), 잔상 (lingering image/afterimage).

발터 벤야민의 기술 복제 시대의 예술작품 논의에 비추어 볼 때, 디지털 사진의 무한 복제 가능성은 원본의 '아우라'를 소멸시키는 동시에 예술의 민주화를 촉진하는 양가적 성격을 지닙니다.

In light of Walter Benjamin's discussion on the work of art in the age of mechanical reproduction, the infinite reproducibility of digital photography has an ambivalent nature, destroying the 'aura' of the original while simultaneously promoting the democratization of art.

무한 복제 (infinite reproduction), 소멸시키다 (to extinguish/destroy), 양가적 (ambivalent).

역사적 사료로서 사진이 갖는 증거 능력은 절대적인 진실의 담지자라기보다는, 특정한 이데올로기적 맥락 속에서 구성되고 해석되는 담론의 장으로 이해되어야 마땅합니다.

The evidentiary capacity of a photograph as historical material should be understood not as a bearer of absolute truth, but rather as a field of discourse constructed and interpreted within a specific ideological context.

사료 (historical material), 담지자 (bearer), 담론 (discourse).

수잔 손택이 경고했듯, 타인의 고통을 스펙터클로 소비하게 만드는 보도 사진의 윤리적 딜레마는 동정심의 마비와 관음증적 시선의 고착화를 초래할 위험을 내포하고 있습니다.

As Susan Sontag warned, the ethical dilemma of press photography that makes the suffering of others consumed as a spectacle entails the risk of causing the paralysis of sympathy and the fixation of a voyeuristic gaze.

스펙터클 (spectacle), 마비 (paralysis), 관음증적 (voyeuristic).

이 작가의 사진 연작은 피사체의 표면적 재현을 거부하고, 장노출과 다중 노출 기법을 통해 시간의 궤적과 존재의 덧없음을 시각적 은유로 승화시킨 탁월한 성취를 보여줍니다.

This artist's photo series rejects the superficial reproduction of the subject and shows an outstanding achievement in sublimating the trajectory of time and the transience of existence into a visual metaphor through long exposure and multiple exposure techniques.

연작 (series), 장노출 (long exposure), 승화시키다 (to sublimate).

딥페이크와 생성형 AI 기술의 도래로 인해 '사진=현실의 지표(index)'라는 전통적인 온톨로지가 근본적으로 위협받으면서, 시각 매체의 진실성에 대한 인식론적 위기가 도래했습니다.

With the advent of deepfake and generative AI technologies, the traditional ontology of 'photography = index of reality' is fundamentally threatened, bringing about an epistemological crisis regarding the truthfulness of visual media.

지표 (index), 온톨로지 (ontology), 인식론적 (epistemological).

기억의 보조 장치로서 사진은 과거를 박제화하여 망각을 저지하는 듯 보이나, 역설적으로 우리는 사진에 포착된 파편화된 순간만을 기억함으로써 과거의 전체적인 맥락을 상실하는 우를 범하게 됩니다.

As an auxiliary device for memory, a photograph seems to taxidermy the past and prevent forgetting, but paradoxically, by remembering only the fragmented moments captured in the photograph, we commit the error of losing the overall context of the past.

박제화하다 (to taxidermy/freeze), 역설적으로 (paradoxically), 우를 범하다 (to commit an error).

사진의 프레임은 세계의 무한한 연속성을 인위적으로 절단하는 폭력적 행위인 동시에, 혼돈 속에서 유의미한 질서를 부여하는 미학적 결단의 순간이기도 합니다.

The frame of a photograph is simultaneously a violent act that artificially severs the infinite continuity of the world and a moment of aesthetic determination that imposes meaningful order amidst chaos.

연속성 (continuity), 절단하다 (to sever/cut), 미학적 결단 (aesthetic determination).

تلازمات شائعة

사진을 찍다

사진이 나오다

사진을 지우다

사진을 올리다

사진을 보정하다

사진을 인화하다

사진을 공유하다

사진에 담다

사진을 남기다

사진을 붙이다

العبارات الشائعة

사진 좀 찍어 주시겠어요?

사진이 잘 나왔어요.

같이 사진 찍어요.

사진이 흔들렸어요.

이 사진 언제 찍었어요?

사진 찍어 드릴까요?

사진을 인스타그램에 올리다.

사진을 카톡으로 보내다.

여권 사진을 찍다.

인생 사진을 건지다.

يُخلط عادةً مع

사진 vs 그림 (drawing/painting)

사진 vs 동영상 (video)

사진 vs 카메라 (camera)

تعبيرات اصطلاحية

سهل الخلط

사진 vs

أنماط الجُمل

كيفية الاستخدام

note

While '카메라' (camera) is an English loanword, '사진' is Sino-Korean. They are used together: 카메라로 사진을 찍다 (Take a picture with a camera).

أخطاء شائعة

Saying '사진을 가지다' instead of '사진을 찍다'.
Calling a painting or drawing a '사진' instead of '그림'.
Using the particle '를' (사진를) instead of '을' (사진을).
Saying '사진이 좋아요' to mean 'the picture came out well' instead of the more natural '사진이 잘 나왔어요'.
Confusing 사진 (photo) with 동영상 (video) when asking someone to record something.

نصائح

Use 찍다

Always pair 사진 with the verb 찍다 when you mean 'to take a picture'. Do not use verbs like 가지다 (to have).

Soft 'S'

Pronounce the '사' in 사진 with a soft, relaxed 's' sound. Avoid making it sound like '싸' (ssa).

Say Kimchi!

When taking a photo of someone in Korea, it is common to say '하나, 둘, 셋, 김치!' (One, two, three, Kimchi!) to get them to smile.

Learn '나오다'

To say a photo looks good, use the verb 나오다 (to come out): '사진이 잘 나왔어요' (The picture came out well).

인생샷 (Insaeng-syat)

Use this slang word to compliment a friend's amazing photo. It means 'best photo of your life'.

Particle '을'

Remember to attach the object particle '을' (not '를') because 사진 ends in a consonant: 사진을 찍다.

Photo Booths

If you visit Korea, try an '인생네컷' (Life Four Cuts) photo booth. It is a huge part of modern youth culture.

사진 vs 그림

Never use 사진 to describe a painting or drawing. Use 그림 for art and 사진 for camera photos.

Hanja Meaning

Remember that the Hanja for 사진 means 'reproducing reality'. This helps distinguish it from drawings.

Asking for a photo

Use the honorific '주시겠어요?' when asking strangers to take your photo to sound polite and respectful.

احفظها

وسيلة تذكّر

Imagine a SAw cutting a JINgle bell in half, and you take a PICTURE of it. SA-JIN = Picture.

أصل الكلمة

Sino-Korean

السياق الثقافي

Unlike many Western countries, Korean resumes traditionally require a formal ID photo, leading to a huge market for professional photo studios that excel in Photoshop (보정).

Self-photo booths are a staple of youth culture, found on almost every busy street in Korea.

Instagram (인스타) culture heavily influences how young Koreans take photos, prioritizing aesthetics and '인생샷' (best shots).

تدرّب في الحياة الواقعية

سياقات واقعية

بدايات محادثة

"이 사진은 어디에서 찍었어요? (Where did you take this picture?)"

"사진 찍는 것을 좋아하세요? (Do you like taking pictures?)"

"제일 좋아하는 사진을 보여주세요. (Please show me your favorite picture.)"

"요즘 유행하는 네 컷 사진 찍어봤어요? (Have you tried taking the trendy four-cut photos lately?)"

"사진 보정 어플 뭐 쓰세요? (What photo editing app do you use?)"

مواضيع للكتابة اليومية

오늘 찍은 사진 중 가장 마음에 드는 사진에 대해 써보세요. (Write about your favorite photo you took today.)

당신의 인생 사진은 무엇입니까? (What is the best photo of your life?)

옛날 사진을 보면 어떤 기분이 드나요? (How do you feel when you look at old photos?)

스마트폰에 사진이 몇 장 있나요? (How many photos are on your smartphone?)

사진을 찍는 것과 눈으로 보는 것 중 무엇이 더 중요할까요? (Which is more important: taking a picture or seeing it with your eyes?)

الأسئلة الشائعة

10 أسئلة

No, '사진을 하다' is grammatically incorrect and unnatural. You must always use the verb '찍다' (to take/stamp) when talking about taking a photograph. The correct phrase is '사진을 찍다'.

사진 strictly refers to a photograph taken with a camera or smartphone. 그림 refers to a drawing, painting, or illustration created by hand using pencils, paint, or digital drawing tools. They are not interchangeable in Korean.

The most polite and common way to ask a stranger is '사진 좀 찍어 주시겠어요?' (Could you please take a picture?). If you are with friends, you can say '사진 찍어 줘' (Take a picture for me).

'인생샷' (in-saeng-syat) is a popular slang term combining '인생' (life) and '샷' (shot). It means the 'best photo of your life'—a picture where you look exceptionally good or the scenery is perfect.

'하나, 둘, 셋' means 'One, two, three'. Just like saying 'Say cheese' or counting to three in English, it is used to synchronize the subjects so they smile and look at the camera at the exact moment the photo is taken. Sometimes they also say '김치' (Kimchi).

'증명사진' literally means 'certification photo'. It refers to official ID photos used for passports, driver's licenses, and resumes. In Korea, getting a high-quality, professionally retouched 증명사진 is considered very important for job applications.

No, 사진 only means a still photograph. If you want to say 'video', you should use the word '동영상' (dong-yeong-sang) or simply '영상' (yeong-sang).

You can say '사진이 흔들렸어요' (literally: the picture shook) or '사진이 흐려요' (the picture is cloudy/blurry). '흔들렸어요' is very commonly used when someone moves while the photo is being taken.

Because 사진 ends in a consonant (ㄴ), you use 을 for the object particle (사진을 찍다), 이 for the subject particle (사진이 예쁘다), and 은 for the topic particle (이 사진은...).

'카메라' (the English loanword) is much more commonly used in modern spoken Korean than '사진기'. However, '사진기' is still understood and sometimes used in written or slightly more formal contexts.

اختبر نفسك 200 أسئلة

writing

Translate to Korean: 'I take a picture.' (Formal polite: ~ㅂ니다)

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

저 (I) + 는 (topic) + 사진을 (picture object) + 찍습니다 (take).