At the A1 level, you don't need to use the word '능동적이다' yourself, as it is a bit formal and complex. Instead, you might learn simpler words like '혼자서' (by oneself) or '먼저' (first). However, it is helpful to know that this word describes someone who does things without being told. Imagine a student who does their homework before the teacher asks. That is a '능동적' student. In simple terms, it means 'not waiting for others to tell you what to do.' You might hear it in very basic descriptions of good habits. For example, 'I study by myself' is a simpler way to express a proactive attitude at this level. Focus on understanding that '능동' means moving or acting from within. If you see this word, just think of a 'self-starter' or someone who is very helpful and independent. It is a very positive word to use when talking about someone's good character. Even at A1, knowing that '이다' at the end makes it a describing word will help you recognize it in sentences. You can think of it like the English word 'active,' but specifically for your mind and choices. It is a great word to keep in the back of your mind as you progress toward more advanced Korean.
At the A2 level, you can begin to recognize '능동적이다' in contexts like school or work descriptions. You might encounter it in simple reading passages about successful people or good study habits. At this stage, you should understand the difference between '능동적' (active/proactive) and '수동적' (passive). A '수동적' person waits for instructions, while a '능동적' person takes the first step. You can practice using the adverb form '능동적으로' with simple verbs you already know, such as '공부하다' (to study) or '일하다' (to work). For example, '능동적으로 공부해요' (I study proactively). This shows you are taking control of your learning. You might also see it in simple advice: '능동적인 사람이 되세요' (Become a proactive person). Understanding the '-적' suffix is also important at A2, as it helps you identify many similar adjectives. This word is often used to praise children or employees, so recognizing it will help you understand positive feedback in Korean. Even if you don't use it every day, knowing its meaning will help you transition to more formal Korean used in business or higher education. It is a step up from '열심히' (hard/diligently) because it adds the meaning of 'taking initiative.'
At the B1 level, you should be able to use '능동적이다' and its variations in your own speech and writing, especially when talking about your personality, work style, or study methods. This word is very useful for the TOPIK exam (Test of Proficiency in Korean) because it often appears in reading and listening sections about social issues or personal development. You should be comfortable using '능동적인' to modify nouns like '태도' (attitude) or '자세' (posture/attitude). For example, '문제를 해결할 때 능동적인 태도가 필요합니다' (A proactive attitude is needed when solving problems). You can also use it to compare different types of people or behaviors. At B1, you should also distinguish it from '적극적이다' (active/enthusiastic). While '적극적' is about how much energy you put in, '능동적' is about who started the action. This nuance is important for more accurate communication. You might hear this word in Korean dramas or variety shows when people are being encouraged to participate more. Practice using it in sentences like '저는 능동적으로 일하는 것을 좋아합니다' (I like working proactively). This will make your Korean sound more professional and mature. It is a key vocabulary word for anyone planning to work or study in a Korean-speaking environment.
At the B2 level, '능동적이다' should be a regular part of your vocabulary. You are expected to understand its nuances in professional, academic, and even grammatical contexts. You should be able to explain the difference between '능동태' (active voice) and '피동태' (passive voice) in Korean grammar. In discussions about leadership or management, you can use '능동적이다' to describe the ideal qualities of a team member. You should also be able to use it in more complex sentence structures, such as '능동적으로 대처하지 않으면 문제가 커질 수 있습니다' (If we don't respond proactively, the problem could grow). At this level, you can use the word to discuss abstract concepts like '능동적인 삶' (a proactive life) or '능동적인 시민 의식' (proactive citizenship). You should also be familiar with related words like '주도적이다' (leading) and '자율적이다' (autonomous) and know when to use '능동적' instead. For instance, in a job interview, you might say, '저는 주어진 일만 하는 것이 아니라 능동적으로 새로운 과제를 찾아 수행합니다' (I don't just do what I'm given; I proactively find and perform new tasks). This level of expression shows a high command of the language and a deep understanding of Korean workplace culture. You should also be able to recognize it in formal news reports or editorials where it is used to critique or praise governmental and social actions.
At the C1 level, you use '능동적이다' with precision and can discuss its philosophical and psychological implications. You might encounter this word in academic papers, high-level business strategy documents, or sophisticated literature. You can analyze how being '능동적' is valued in different cultures and how the meaning might shift depending on the context. For example, you could write an essay on '능동적 학습의 효과' (The effects of active learning) or '사회의 능동적 변화' (Proactive changes in society). You should be able to use the word in formal speeches or debates, perhaps arguing that '능동적인 태도' is the most critical factor for innovation. You will also understand its use in technical fields, such as '능동형 소음 제어' (Active Noise Control) in engineering. At this level, you can use the word to describe complex human behaviors, such as '능동적 망각' (active forgetting) in psychology. You are also expected to use the word in its negative or nuanced forms, such as '수동적 능동성' (passive proactivity), to describe sophisticated concepts. Your ability to use '능동적이다' in various grammatical forms (noun, adjective, adverb) should be flawless, and you should be able to use it to create sophisticated rhetorical effects in your writing. You can also appreciate the word's Hanja roots and how they contribute to its formal and authoritative tone.
At the C2 level, '능동적이다' is a word you handle with complete mastery, often using it to convey subtle shades of meaning in highly specialized or creative contexts. You might use it in a philosophical treatise to discuss the nature of human agency and '능동적 의지' (proactive will). You can effortlessly switch between '능동적', '주도적', '자발적', and '진취적' to capture the exact nuance of a situation. In a high-stakes business negotiation or a diplomatic setting, you might use '능동적 대응' (proactive response) to signal a position of strength and initiative. You are also capable of using the word ironically or in literary metaphors to describe non-human entities, such as a '능동적인 시장 경제' (a proactive market economy). At this level, your understanding of the word is integrated with a deep knowledge of Korean history, culture, and social dynamics, allowing you to use it in ways that resonate with native speakers on a profound level. You might analyze how the concept of being '능동적' has evolved in Korean society from the traditional Confucian emphasis on hierarchy to the modern emphasis on individual agency. Your usage is indistinguishable from that of a highly educated native speaker, and you can use the word to construct complex, persuasive arguments in any professional or academic field.

능동적이다 in 30 Sekunden

  • 능동적이다 means being proactive and taking the initiative without waiting for instructions from others. It is a highly positive trait in Korean culture.
  • The word is often used in professional and academic settings to describe a self-driven attitude toward work, learning, and problem-solving.
  • It is the direct antonym of 수동적이다 (passive) and is subtly different from 적극적이다 (enthusiastic/active) by emphasizing the source of action.
  • Commonly used with nouns like '태도' (attitude), '자세' (posture), and '학습' (learning), and frequently appears in the adverbial form '능동적으로'.

The Korean adjective 능동적이다 (neung-dong-jeok-ida) is a sophisticated term that describes a person's attitude or an action characterized by initiative, self-direction, and proactivity. At its core, it refers to doing something not because you were told to, or because circumstances forced you, but because you recognized a need and decided to act on your own volition. In a world where many people wait for instructions, being 능동적이다 is seen as a highly valuable trait, especially in professional and educational environments. The word is composed of '능' (ability), '동' (movement/action), and the suffix '적' (forming an adjective), followed by the copula '이다' (to be). Together, they literally imply a state of having the power or ability to move oneself.

Workplace Context
In a professional setting, an employee who is 능동적이다 identifies problems before they escalate and proposes solutions without being prompted by a manager. This is often contrasted with a 'passive' (수동적) employee who only completes tasks assigned to them. Companies in Korea increasingly look for 능동적인 인재 (proactive talent) who can adapt to the fast-paced digital economy.

그는 항상 능동적인 자세로 업무에 임합니다. (He always approaches his work with a proactive attitude.)

Educational Context
For students, being 능동적이다 means engaging in self-directed learning. Instead of just memorizing what is in the textbook, a proactive student asks questions, seeks out additional resources, and tries to understand the 'why' behind the facts. This is the hallmark of '능동적 학습' (active learning).

학생들이 수업에 능동적으로 참여하는 것이 중요합니다. (It is important for students to participate proactively in class.)

Furthermore, in the context of personal relationships, being 능동적이다 might involve reaching out to friends first, planning events, or taking the lead in resolving conflicts. It reflects a high level of agency and responsibility for one's own life path. Historically, Korean society placed a high value on following the group (collectivism), but modern Korean discourse heavily emphasizes the importance of being 능동적 as an individual to succeed in a globalized world.

연애에서도 능동적인 태도가 필요할 때가 있습니다. (There are times when a proactive attitude is necessary even in dating.)

Grammatical Usage
As a descriptive verb (adjective), it can be used at the end of a sentence as '능동적이다', or it can modify a noun as '능동적인'. When used as an adverb to describe how an action is performed, it becomes '능동적으로'.

문제를 능동적으로 해결하세요. (Solve the problem proactively.)

자신의 삶을 능동적으로 개척해 나가야 합니다. (You must proactively forge your own life.)

Using 능동적이다 correctly requires understanding its role as a descriptive adjective that characterizes a person's nature or the quality of an action. It is frequently paired with nouns like '자세' (attitude), '태도' (posture/attitude), '역할' (role), and '학습' (learning). To use it effectively, you should consider the contrast between acting on your own (능동적) versus acting only when forced or instructed (수동적). This distinction is vital for B2-level learners who are moving beyond simple descriptions to more nuanced characterizations of behavior.

Sentence Structure 1: Attributive Use
When modifying a noun, use '능동적인'. This is common in formal writing and job descriptions. For example, '능동적인 태도가 중요합니다' (A proactive attitude is important). Here, the adjective directly describes the noun '태도'.

회사는 능동적인 인재를 원합니다. (The company wants proactive talent.)

Sentence Structure 2: Predicative Use
When ending a sentence, use '능동적이다' (plain form) or '능동적이에요' (polite form). This is used to state a fact about someone's character. For example, '제 친구는 매우 능동적이에요' (My friend is very proactive).

그녀의 성격은 참 능동적이다. (Her personality is truly proactive.)

Sentence Structure 3: Adverbial Use
Using '능동적으로' allows you to describe how someone performs a verb. This is perhaps the most common way to hear the word in daily life. '능동적으로 일하세요' (Work proactively).

우리는 변화에 능동적으로 대처해야 합니다. (We must proactively cope with change.)

In complex sentences, you might see it used with conditional endings like '-하면' or causal endings like '-해서'. For example, '능동적으로 행동하면 기회가 생깁니다' (If you act proactively, opportunities will arise). It can also be used in the negative form by using '능동적이지 않다' or by using the antonym '수동적이다'. Mastering these variations allows for a more natural expression of thought in Korean.

그는 시키는 일만 하고 전혀 능동적이지 않아요. (He only does what he's told and isn't proactive at all.)

문제를 능동적으로 찾아내는 능력이 필요합니다. (The ability to proactively find problems is necessary.)

능동적이다 is not typically a word you would use in a casual conversation about what to eat for lunch, but it is ubiquitous in professional, academic, and self-development contexts in Korea. If you are watching a Korean drama set in a corporate environment (like 'Misaeng' or 'Start-Up'), you will likely hear managers evaluating their subordinates based on how 능동적 they are. It is a key buzzword in the 'HR' (Human Resources) world. In news broadcasts and documentaries, analysts often discuss how the government or society needs to take a 능동적인 approach to global issues like climate change or economic shifts.

Corporate Environment
During performance reviews or team meetings, you might hear: '이번 프로젝트에서는 좀 더 능동적으로 움직여 주세요' (Please move more proactively in this project). It suggests that the team members should take more ownership of their tasks.

팀원들이 능동적으로 아이디어를 냈습니다. (The team members proactively came up with ideas.)

Education and Parenting
In South Korea, where education is highly competitive, parents and teachers often discuss '자기주도학습' (self-directed learning), which is fundamentally about being 능동적이다. You'll see this in educational seminars and books aimed at parents.

아이의 능동적인 독서 습관을 길러주세요. (Please cultivate your child's proactive reading habits.)

You will also encounter this word in the context of 'Active Voice' in linguistics. In Korean grammar, '능동태' (active voice) refers to sentences where the subject performs the action, as opposed to '피동태' (passive voice). While this is a technical use, it reinforces the core meaning of the subject being the 'actor' or the 'mover'. Furthermore, in self-help podcasts and YouTube channels, speakers often encourage listeners to live a '능동적인 삶' (proactive life) to avoid being swept away by the demands of others.

이 문장은 능동태로 쓰였습니다. (This sentence is written in the active voice.)

News and Media
When the government responds quickly to a crisis, the media might praise them for '능동적인 대처' (proactive response). Conversely, if they wait for things to get worse, they are criticized for being '수동적' (passive).

정부의 능동적인 개입이 필요합니다. (Proactive intervention by the government is necessary.)

시장의 변화에 능동적으로 대응해야 살아남을 수 있습니다. (You can survive only if you proactively respond to market changes.)

One of the most common mistakes learners make with 능동적이다 is confusing it with 적극적이다 (active/enthusiastic). While they are often used in similar contexts, there is a subtle but important difference. 적극적이다 implies energy, enthusiasm, and a positive 'go-getter' attitude. You can be 적극적 in a game or a sport. However, 능동적이다 specifically emphasizes the *source* of the action—that it comes from within you and is self-initiated. You can be enthusiastic (적극적) while following someone else's plan, but you cannot be proactive (능동적) if you are just following orders.

Mistake 1: Misusing with Physical Activity
A learner might say '나는 능동적으로 축구를 해요' thinking it means 'I play soccer actively.' However, in this context, '적극적으로' (enthusiastically) or '활발하게' (energetically) is much more natural. '능동적으로' would imply you organized the game yourself or took initiative in a tactical sense, which sounds a bit overly formal for a casual hobby.

[Wrong] 운동장에서 능동적으로 뛰고 있어요.
[Right] 운동장에서 활발하게 뛰고 있어요. (I'm running energetically on the playground.)

Mistake 2: Confusing with 'Self-Centered'
Some learners might worry that being 능동적 sounds like being bossy or doing things without consulting others. However, in Korean, the word has a very positive connotation of responsibility. It is not about 'doing whatever you want' (자기 마음대로), but about 'taking the lead for the common good' or 'taking responsibility for one's growth'.

그는 능동적이라기보다 자기 고집이 센 편이에요. (He is stubborn rather than being proactive.)

Mistake 3: Forgetting the '-적' Suffix
Learners often forget that '능동' is the noun and '능동적' is the adjective form. You cannot say '그는 능동이다'. You must say '그는 능동적이다'. This is a common pattern for Hanja-based words ending in '-적'.

[Wrong] 그의 행동은 능동이에요.
[Right] 그의 행동은 능동적이에요. (His actions are proactive.)

Lastly, be careful with the particle '-으로'. While '능동적으로' is very common, some learners try to use it where an adjective is needed. For example, '능동적으로 인재' is incorrect; it should be '능동적인 인재'. Always check if you are describing *how* (adverb) or *what kind* (adjective).

우리는 능동적인 삶을 지향합니다. (We aim for a proactive life.)

그는 능동적으로 학습하여 좋은 결과를 얻었습니다. (He achieved good results by studying proactively.)

To truly master 능동적이다, you must understand its relationship with other similar Korean words. Korean has a rich vocabulary for describing attitudes, and choosing the right one can make your speech sound much more natural and precise. The most common synonyms are 적극적이다, 주도적이다, and 자발적이다. While they overlap, each has a unique nuance that sets it apart in specific contexts.

능동적이다 vs. 적극적이다
능동적이다 focuses on the 'source' of the action (self-initiated). 적극적이다 focuses on the 'intensity' or 'enthusiasm' of the action. You can be 적극적 (enthusiastic) about a task your boss gave you, but you are only 능동적 if you started the task before being asked.

그는 회의에서 적극적으로 의견을 냈습니다. (He enthusiastically gave his opinion in the meeting.)

능동적이다 vs. 주도적이다
주도적이다 (Leading/Taking the initiative) is a step above 능동적이다. It implies not only acting on your own but also leading others or taking charge of the entire situation. In a team, everyone should be 능동적, but the manager should be 주도적.

그녀는 팀에서 주도적인 역할을 맡고 있습니다. (She plays a leading role in the team.)

능동적이다 vs. 자발적이다
자발적이다 (Voluntary) is very close to 능동적이다, but it is often used in the context of 'volunteering' or doing something without any expectation of reward or external requirement. While 능동적 is often used for work/study, 자발적 is often used for community service or helping others.

그들은 자발적으로 청소에 참여했습니다. (They voluntarily participated in the cleaning.)

Another useful word is 진취적이다 (Enterprising/Progressive). This word suggests a desire to move forward, innovate, and overcome challenges. It is more about a 'forward-looking' mindset than just self-initiation. Finally, 자율적이다 (Autonomous) refers to the state of having the freedom and ability to govern oneself. While 능동적 is about the action, 자율적 is often about the system or the environment that allows that action to happen.

우리는 자율적인 업무 환경을 조성하고 있습니다. (We are creating an autonomous work environment.)

그는 매우 진취적인 사고방식을 가지고 있습니다. (He has a very enterprising way of thinking.)

How Formal Is It?

Wusstest du?

The '적' (jeok) suffix in Korean functions similarly to '-ic' or '-ive' in English, turning a noun like 'action' (능동) into an adjective like 'active' (능동적).

Aussprachehilfe

UK nɯŋ.doŋ.d͡ʑʌk.i.da
US nɯŋ.doŋ.d͡ʑʌk.i.da
Stress is relatively even across all syllables, but a slight emphasis on the first syllable '능' is common in clear speech.
Reimt sich auf
수동적이다 (su-dong-jeok-ida) 긍정적이다 (geung-jeong-jeok-ida) 열정적이다 (yeol-jeong-jeok-ida) 안정적이다 (an-jeong-jeok-ida) 상징적이다 (sang-jing-jeok-ida) 감정적이다 (gam-jeong-jeok-ida) 부정적이다 (bu-jeong-jeok-ida) 열성적이다 (yeol-seong-jeok-ida)
Häufige Fehler
  • Pronouncing '능' as '눙' (nung).
  • Pronouncing '적' as '저' (jeo) and omitting the 'k' sound.
  • Failing to connect '적' and '이' resulting in a choppy sound.

Schwierigkeitsgrad

Lesen 3/5

Common in news and formal texts, but requires knowledge of Hanja-based suffixes.

Schreiben 4/5

Using the correct form (adjective vs. adverb) requires practice.

Sprechen 4/5

The pronunciation of '능' and '적' can be tricky for beginners.

Hören 3/5

Clear pronunciation makes it relatively easy to identify in formal speech.

Was du als Nächstes lernen solltest

Voraussetzungen

하다 움직이다 태도 사람 이다

Als Nächstes lernen

주도적이다 자발적이다 진취적이다 수동적이다 피동태

Fortgeschritten

자기주도학습 능동적 망각 능동적 저항 자율성 주체성

Wichtige Grammatik

Adjective Suffix -적

능동 (Noun) + 적 = 능동적 (Adjective)

Adverbial Suffix -으로

능동적 + 으로 = 능동적으로 (Adverb)

Noun Modifying Form -ㄴ/은

능동적인 + 태도

Polite Ending -이에요

그는 능동적이에요.

Passive Voice vs Active Voice

능동태 (Active) vs 피동태 (Passive)

Beispiele nach Niveau

1

그는 능동적인 학생이에요.

He is a proactive student.

능동적인 modifies the noun '학생'.

2

능동적으로 행동하세요.

Please act proactively.

-으로 makes it an adverb.

3

저는 능동적인 사람이 좋아요.

I like proactive people.

능동적인 describes '사람'.

4

그녀는 아주 능동적이에요.

She is very proactive.

능동적이에요 is the polite ending.

5

능동적인 태도가 필요해요.

A proactive attitude is needed.

태도 (attitude) is a common noun used with this word.

6

우리는 능동적으로 공부해요.

We study proactively.

능동적으로 describes the verb '공부해요'.

7

능동적인 삶은 즐거워요.

A proactive life is joyful.

삶 (life) is often used with 능동적인.

8

그 아이는 참 능동적이다.

That child is truly proactive.

능동적이다 is the plain/dictionary form.

1

선생님은 능동적인 참여를 원하세요.

The teacher wants proactive participation.

참여 (participation) is often paired with this word.

2

문제를 능동적으로 해결해 보세요.

Try to solve the problem proactively.

해결해 보세요 means 'try to solve'.

3

능동적인 자세로 일합시다.

Let's work with a proactive attitude.

자세 (posture/attitude) is used here.

4

그는 성격이 매우 능동적이다.

His personality is very proactive.

성격 (personality) is the subject.

5

능동적으로 질문하는 것이 좋아요.

It is good to ask questions proactively.

질문하는 것 means 'asking questions'.

6

우리 팀은 능동적으로 움직여야 해요.

Our team must move proactively.

움직여야 해요 means 'must move'.

7

능동적인 학습이 중요합니다.

Proactive learning is important.

학습 (learning) is a formal word for 'study'.

8

그는 모든 일에 능동적이에요.

He is proactive in everything.

모든 일에 means 'in all things'.

1

취업을 하려면 능동적인 태도가 필수적입니다.

A proactive attitude is essential if you want to get a job.

-려면 means 'if you intend to'.

2

자신의 삶을 능동적으로 개척해 나가세요.

Forge your own life proactively.

개척하다 means 'to pioneer' or 'to forge'.

3

수동적인 자세보다 능동적인 자세가 낫습니다.

A proactive attitude is better than a passive one.

보다 is used for comparison.

4

능동적으로 의견을 제시하는 사람이 성공합니다.

People who proactively present their opinions succeed.

제시하는 사람 means 'person who presents'.

5

변화하는 사회에 능동적으로 대처해야 합니다.

We must proactively cope with a changing society.

대처하다 means 'to cope' or 'to deal with'.

6

학생들이 능동적으로 수업을 이끌어 갔습니다.

The students proactively led the class.

이끌어 가다 means 'to lead'.

7

능동적인 독서는 사고력을 키워줍니다.

Proactive reading develops thinking skills.

사고력 means 'thinking ability'.

8

그는 능동적인 지원으로 팀을 도왔습니다.

He helped the team with proactive support.

지원 (support) is the noun being modified.

1

기업은 능동적인 인재를 확보하기 위해 노력합니다.

Companies strive to secure proactive talent.

-기 위해 means 'in order to'.

2

능동적으로 업무를 수행하는 능력이 요구됩니다.

The ability to perform tasks proactively is required.

수행하다 means 'to perform' or 'to carry out'.

3

그녀는 위기 상황에서 능동적으로 대처했습니다.

She dealt with the crisis situation proactively.

위기 상황 means 'crisis situation'.

4

능동적인 소비자는 정보를 꼼꼼히 확인합니다.

Proactive consumers check information thoroughly.

소비자 means 'consumer'.

5

우리는 환경 보호에 능동적으로 참여하고 있습니다.

We are proactively participating in environmental protection.

참여하고 있다 is the present progressive.

6

능동적인 삶의 태도는 행복의 열쇠입니다.

A proactive attitude toward life is the key to happiness.

열쇠 (key) is used metaphorically.

7

시장의 흐름을 능동적으로 파악해야 합니다.

We must proactively grasp the flow of the market.

파악하다 means 'to grasp' or 'to understand'.

8

능동적인 의사소통은 오해를 줄여줍니다.

Proactive communication reduces misunderstandings.

의사소통 means 'communication'.

1

정부는 경제 위기에 능동적으로 개입하기로 했습니다.

The government decided to intervene proactively in the economic crisis.

개입하다 means 'to intervene'.

2

능동적인 시민 의식이 사회를 변화시킵니다.

Proactive civic consciousness changes society.

시민 의식 means 'civic consciousness'.

3

이론을 배우는 것보다 능동적인 실천이 중요합니다.

Proactive practice is more important than learning theory.

실천 means 'practice' or 'action'.

4

그는 능동적인 사고를 통해 혁신을 이루어냈습니다.

He achieved innovation through proactive thinking.

혁신 means 'innovation'.

5

능동적인 학습자는 지식을 스스로 재구성합니다.

Proactive learners reconstruct knowledge themselves.

재구성하다 means 'to reconstruct'.

6

디지털 시대에는 능동적인 정보 활용 능력이 필수입니다.

In the digital age, proactive information utilization skills are essential.

활용 능력 means 'utilization ability'.

7

그는 갈등 해결을 위해 능동적인 중재자로 나섰습니다.

He stepped forward as a proactive mediator to resolve the conflict.

중재자 means 'mediator'.

8

능동적인 외교 정책이 국가의 위상을 높였습니다.

A proactive foreign policy raised the nation's status.

위상 means 'status' or 'stature'.

1

인간은 능동적인 주체로서 역사에 참여합니다.

Humans participate in history as proactive subjects.

주체 means 'subject' or 'agent'.

2

능동적 망각은 정신 건강을 유지하는 전략입니다.

Active forgetting is a strategy for maintaining mental health.

망각 means 'forgetting'.

3

예술가는 사회적 모순에 능동적으로 저항해야 합니다.

Artists must proactively resist social contradictions.

저항하다 means 'to resist'.

4

능동적 진화는 생명체가 환경에 적응하는 과정입니다.

Active evolution is the process of living organisms adapting to the environment.

진화 means 'evolution'.

5

철학적 사유는 능동적인 정신 활동의 산물입니다.

Philosophical thinking is the product of proactive mental activity.

산물 means 'product' or 'result'.

6

능동적인 자기 성찰은 성숙한 인간의 특징입니다.

Proactive self-reflection is a characteristic of a mature human.

자기 성찰 means 'self-reflection'.

7

그는 복잡한 담론에 능동적으로 참여하여 논의를 심화시켰습니다.

He proactively participated in complex discourse and deepened the discussion.

담론 means 'discourse'.

8

능동적인 기술 개발이 국가 경쟁력을 좌우합니다.

Proactive technology development determines national competitiveness.

좌우하다 means 'to determine' or 'to influence'.

Häufige Kollokationen

능동적인 태도
능동적인 참여
능동적으로 대처하다
능동적인 역할
능동적인 학습
능동적으로 행동하다
능동적인 인재
능동적인 삶
능동적으로 소통하다
능동적인 자세

Häufige Phrasen

능동적으로 나서다

— To step forward proactively to take charge.

그가 해결사로 능동적으로 나섰다.

능동적인 사고

— Proactive thinking or a growth mindset.

능동적인 사고는 창의력의 원천이다.

능동적으로 움직이다

— To move or act with initiative.

상황에 맞춰 능동적으로 움직이세요.

능동적인 대응

— A proactive response to a situation.

빠르고 능동적인 대응이 필요합니다.

능동적인 변화

— A change initiated by oneself.

우리는 능동적인 변화를 추구합니다.

능동적으로 받아들이다

— To proactively accept or embrace something.

새로운 기술을 능동적으로 받아들여야 한다.

능동적인 개입

— Proactive intervention.

정부의 능동적인 개입이 시작되었다.

능동적으로 탐구하다

— To proactively explore or research.

진리를 능동적으로 탐구하는 자세.

능동적인 기여

— Proactive contribution.

지역 사회에 능동적인 기여를 하다.

능동적으로 적응하다

— To proactively adapt to a new environment.

그녀는 새 직장에 능동적으로 적응했다.

Wird oft verwechselt mit

능동적이다 vs 적극적이다

Focuses on energy and enthusiasm rather than the source of initiative.

능동적이다 vs 주도적이다

Implies leading others, whereas '능동적' is mostly about oneself.

능동적이다 vs 자발적이다

Specifically implies doing something without being asked or forced, often in a social/voluntary context.

Redewendungen & Ausdrücke

"가만히 있으면 중간이라도 간다"

— If you stay still, you'll at least reach the middle (be average). This is the *opposite* of being proactive and is often used to warn against taking risks.

가만히 있으면 중간이라도 가는데 왜 나섰니?

Informal
"먼저 숟가락을 얹다"

— To take credit for someone else's work (literally: to put one's spoon on the table first). This is a negative form of taking initiative.

그는 남의 일에 먼저 숟가락을 얹었다.

Informal
"발 벗고 나서다"

— To take initiative with great enthusiasm (literally: to step forward with bare feet).

그녀는 이웃을 돕기 위해 발 벗고 나섰다.

Neutral
"팔을 걷어붙이다"

— To roll up one's sleeves to start a task proactively.

우리는 청소를 위해 팔을 걷어붙였다.

Neutral
"앞장서다"

— To stand at the front and lead proactively.

그는 변화를 위해 앞장섰다.

Neutral
"주도권을 잡다"

— To take the initiative or hold the power in a situation.

우리 팀이 경기에서 주도권을 잡았다.

Formal
"길을 닦다"

— To pave the way for others proactively.

선배들이 후배들을 위해 길을 닦아 놓았다.

Neutral
"솔선수범하다"

— To set an example for others by taking initiative.

리더는 솔선수범해야 한다.

Formal
"운전대를 잡다"

— To take control of a situation (literally: to take the steering wheel).

이제 네가 인생의 운전대를 잡아야 해.

Informal
"총대를 메다"

— To take responsibility for a difficult task proactively (literally: to carry the gun).

누군가는 총대를 메고 이 일을 해야 합니다.

Neutral

Leicht verwechselbar

능동적이다 vs 활동적이다

Both mean 'active'.

활동적이다 is physical energy; 능동적이다 is mental initiative.

그는 활동적인 운동선수다 vs 그는 능동적인 학생이다.

능동적이다 vs 긍정적이다

Both are positive traits.

긍정적이다 is optimistic; 능동적이다 is proactive.

긍정적인 생각 vs 능동적인 행동.

능동적이다 vs 독립적이다

Both imply self-reliance.

독립적이다 is doing things alone; 능동적이다 is starting things yourself.

독립적인 생활 vs 능동적인 태도.

능동적이다 vs 자율적이다

Both involve self-direction.

자율적이다 is about having the freedom to choose; 능동적이다 is about the act of choosing and doing.

자율적인 분위기 vs 능동적인 참여.

능동적이다 vs 수동적이다

Direct antonym.

This is the opposite; waiting for others to act.

그는 너무 수동적이다.

Satzmuster

A2

저는 능동적인 [Noun]입니다.

저는 능동적인 학생입니다.

B1

[Noun]을/를 능동적으로 [Verb]하세요.

업무를 능동적으로 처리하세요.

B1

[Noun]에 능동적으로 참여하다.

토론에 능동적으로 참여하다.

B2

[Noun]에게는 능동적인 자세가 요구됩니다.

리더에게는 능동적인 자세가 요구됩니다.

B2

[Noun]에 능동적으로 대처하다.

위기에 능동적으로 대처하다.

C1

능동적인 [Noun]을/를 통해 [Result]을/를 얻다.

능동적인 노력을 통해 성공을 얻다.

C1

[Noun]의 능동적인 개입이 필요하다.

정부의 능동적인 개입이 필요하다.

C2

능동적인 주체로서 [Action]하다.

능동적인 주체로서 역사에 참여하다.

Wortfamilie

Substantive

능동 (Active/Proactivity)
능동태 (Active voice)
능동성 (Proactivity/Agency)

Verben

능동적으로 하다 (To do proactively)

Adjektive

능동적이다 (To be proactive)

Verwandt

수동 (Passive)
피동 (Passive voice)
주도 (Leadership)
적극 (Enthusiasm)
자발 (Voluntariness)

So verwendest du es

frequency

High in professional and educational contexts; medium in daily casual life.

Häufige Fehler
  • 그는 능동이에요. 그는 능동적이에요.

    You must use the adjective form with the '-적' suffix.

  • 능동적으로 학생. 능동적인 학생.

    Use '능동적인' to modify a noun, not the adverbial form.

  • 축구를 능동적으로 해요. 축구를 적극적으로 해요.

    For sports and energy, '적극적' is more natural.

  • 능동적 태도가 없어요. 능동적인 태도가 없어요.

    Missing the 'ㄴ' noun-modifying particle.

  • 수동태로 일해요. 수동적으로 일해요.

    '수동태' is 'passive voice' (grammar). '수동적으로' is 'passively' (behavior).

Tipps

Resume Power Word

Use '능동적인 인재' to describe yourself in Korean cover letters to stand out.

Adverb Formation

Always add '-으로' to '능동적' to describe an action: '능동적으로 일하다'.

Modern Value

Remember that modern Korean society values '능동적' behavior over traditional passivity.

Source vs Energy

Use '능동적' for the *source* of action and '적극적' for the *energy* of action.

News Context

When you hear this in the news, it usually refers to a government's quick response.

Confidence

Saying '제가 능동적으로 해보겠습니다' shows you are a reliable person.

Noun Pairing

Pair it with '태도' (attitude) for a natural-sounding phrase.

Self-Directed

Relate it to '자기주도학습' to remember its academic importance.

Hanja Roots

Remember '능' means ability and '동' means move.

Antonym

Always keep '수동적' in mind as its shadow opposite.

Einprägen

Eselsbrücke

Think of '능' (Neung) as 'New' and '동' (Dong) as 'Doing'. A proactive person is always 'New-Doing' things without being asked.

Visuelle Assoziation

Imagine a person standing in front of a group, pointing toward a new path, while everyone else is sitting and waiting for a bus.

Word Web

Initiative Self-starter Agency Active Voice Leadership Responsibility Foresight Energy

Herausforderung

Try to identify one thing today that you can do '능동적으로' (proactively) before anyone asks you to do it.

Wortherkunft

Derived from the Hanja (Sino-Korean) characters 能 (능 - ability/can), 動 (동 - move/action), and 的 (적 - suffix meaning 'characteristic of').

Ursprüngliche Bedeutung: The original meaning is 'having the ability to move or act by oneself'.

Sino-Korean (Hanja)

Kultureller Kontext

There are no significant sensitivities. It is a universally positive word in professional and social contexts.

In Western cultures, 'proactive' is a standard business term. In Korean, '능동적' carries a similar weight but also sounds slightly more academic or formal.

Misaeng (Drama) - Often discusses workplace attitudes. Start-Up (Drama) - Focuses on proactive entrepreneurs. TOPIK Exam - Frequently uses this word in B2 level questions.

Im Alltag üben

Kontexte aus dem Alltag

Job Interview

  • 저는 능동적인 사람입니다.
  • 능동적으로 업무를 처리합니다.
  • 문제를 능동적으로 해결합니다.
  • 능동적인 자세로 배우겠습니다.

School Report

  • 수업에 능동적으로 참여함.
  • 능동적인 학습 태도를 가짐.
  • 질문에 능동적으로 답변함.
  • 과제를 능동적으로 수행함.

Self-Help/Motivation

  • 능동적인 삶을 사세요.
  • 능동적으로 변화하세요.
  • 능동적인 태도가 중요합니다.
  • 자신의 운명을 능동적으로 결정하세요.

Grammar Class

  • 능동태 문장입니다.
  • 능동과 피동의 차이.
  • 능동형 동사.
  • 능동태를 피동태로 바꾸세요.

Management Meeting

  • 능동적인 대응이 필요합니다.
  • 팀원들이 능동적이지 않습니다.
  • 능동적인 문화를 만듭시다.
  • 변화에 능동적으로 대처합시다.

Gesprächseinstiege

"당신은 성격이 능동적인 편인가요, 아니면 수동적인 편인가요?"

"회사에서 능동적으로 일하는 것이 왜 중요하다고 생각하세요?"

"최근에 능동적으로 무엇인가를 시작해 본 적이 있나요?"

"아이들에게 능동적인 태도를 어떻게 가르칠 수 있을까요?"

"능동적인 삶을 살기 위해 우리가 해야 할 일은 무엇일까요?"

Tagebuch-Impulse

오늘 하루 동안 내가 능동적으로 행동했던 순간 세 가지를 적어보세요.

내가 더 능동적인 사람이 된다면 내 삶이 어떻게 변할지 상상해 보세요.

능동적인 태도가 부족해서 놓쳤던 기회가 있다면 무엇인가요?

나의 직업이나 공부에서 가장 능동적인 부분은 무엇인가요?

진정한 의미의 '능동적인 삶'이란 무엇인지 자신의 생각을 서술하세요.

Häufig gestellte Fragen

10 Fragen

Yes, in 99% of cases, it is a very positive word describing a desirable trait like initiative and responsibility.

It's better to use '활동적이다' or '적극적이다' for physical activities. '능동적' sounds too formal for the gym.

능동 is the noun (proactivity), and 능동적 is the adjective (proactive). You usually use the adjective form.

You can say '알아서 잘 하는' (someone who does things well on their own).

Yes, '능동태' means the active voice in linguistics.

Yes, it is often used to praise children who study or clean without being told.

Yes, it is a very frequent word in TOPIK II (Intermediate/Advanced) reading passages.

The direct opposite is '수동적이다' (passive).

Yes, a company can have a '능동적인 문화' (proactive culture).

It implies self-leadership, but '주도적' is the word for leading others.

Teste dich selbst 180 Fragen

writing

Translate: 'I want to be a proactive person.'

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate: 'Please study proactively.'

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate: 'A proactive attitude is important.'

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate: 'He solved the problem proactively.'

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate: 'The company needs proactive talent.'

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate: 'Participate in the meeting proactively.'

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate: 'We must adapt to change proactively.'

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate: 'She has a proactive personality.'

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate: 'Active voice is easier to understand.'

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate: 'Don't be passive, be proactive.'

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Write a sentence using '능동적으로' and '일하다'.

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Write a sentence using '능동적인' and '학생'.

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Write a sentence using '능동적이다' and '성격'.

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Write a sentence using '능동적으로' and '대처하다'.

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Write a sentence using '능동적인' and '삶'.

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate: 'The students proactively led the discussion.'

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate: 'Cultivate proactive habits.'

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate: 'He is a proactive leader.'

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Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate: 'Proactive communication reduces conflict.'

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Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate: 'I like working in a proactive environment.'

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Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Pronounce: 능동적이다

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Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Pronounce: 능동적으로

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Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Pronounce: 능동적인 태도

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Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say: 'I am a proactive person.' in Korean.

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Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say: 'Work proactively.' in Korean.

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Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Describe yourself using '능동적'.

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Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say: 'Proactive learning is important.'

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Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Pronounce the antonym: 수동적이다

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Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say: 'Act proactively.'

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Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say: 'A proactive student.'

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Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say: 'Proactive participation.'

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Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say: 'Cope proactively.'

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Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say: 'Proactive response.'

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Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say: 'Active voice.'

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Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say: 'Proactive change.'

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Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say: 'Proactive personality.'

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Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say: 'Proactive role.'

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Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say: 'Proactive communication.'

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Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say: 'Proactive life.'

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Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say: 'Proactive effort.'

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen and identify the word: '그는 참 능동적인 사람이에요.'

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen and identify the adverb: '능동적으로 일합시다.'

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen and identify the antonym: '수동적인 태도는 좋지 않아요.'

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen and identify the grammar term: '능동태 문장을 만드세요.'

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen and choose the meaning: '능동적인 학습'

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen and choose the meaning: '능동적으로 대처하다'

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen and choose the meaning: '능동적인 인재'

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen and choose the meaning: '능동적인 참여'

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen and choose the meaning: '능동적인 자세'

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen and choose the meaning: '능동적인 삶'

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Identify the number of syllables in '능동적이다'.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Which syllable has the 'ng' sound?

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Does the speaker sound positive or negative when saying '능동적'?

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Is the speaker talking about a person or a grammar rule (능동태)?

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Identify the word from its IPA: nɯŋ.doŋ.d͡ʑʌk.i.da

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:

/ 180 correct

Perfect score!

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