At the A1 level, '규명하다' is far too difficult. Beginners usually learn the word '알다' (to know) or '물어보다' (to ask). If an A1 student wants to say they want to find out why something happened, they might say '왜 그런지 알고 싶어요' (I want to know why it is like that). '규명하다' would sound like a toddler using a word from a PhD thesis. At this stage, focus on basic verbs of discovery and understanding. You don't need to worry about this word yet, but you might see it in the news and wonder what it means. Just think of it as a very, very formal way of saying 'finding the answer to a big question.' Imagine a detective in a movie—they are '규명'-ing the crime. For now, stick to simple words like '찾다' (find) or '이해하다' (understand).
A2 learners are starting to use more specific verbs, but '규명하다' is still very advanced. You might encounter it in a reading passage about science or history. Instead of '규명하다', you would more likely use '이유를 찾다' (find the reason) or '조사하다' (to investigate/check). If you are talking about a problem at work, you might say '문제를 조사해요' (I investigate the problem). '규명하다' is only for when that investigation is very formal and results in a clear explanation. If you see this word in a test, remember it's about 'making things clear' (명 = clear). It's a step above just looking for something; it's about finding the final, definitive truth. You can think of it as 'investigating until it's clear.'
At the B1 level, you should begin to recognize '규명하다' in news headlines and formal articles. You are moving beyond everyday conversation into more 'social' topics like the environment, technology, or social issues. You might not use this word in your own speaking yet, but you should understand it when a reporter says '원인을 규명 중입니다' (The cause is being clarified). This is the level where you start distinguishing between '밝히다' (to reveal/make bright) and '규명하다'. '밝히다' is common and can be used for light or for facts. '규명하다' is specifically for facts and causes that require effort and investigation to uncover. Start noticing how it is used with words like '원인' (cause) and '진실' (truth).
B2 is the target level for this word. As an upper-intermediate learner, you should be able to use '규명하다' in formal writing, such as essays or reports. You understand that this word carries a 'professional' and 'rigorous' tone. You should be comfortable using the passive form '규명되다' when describing the results of a study or an investigation. For example, '최근 연구를 통해 그 원인이 규명되었습니다' (The cause was clarified through recent research). You also understand the nuance that '규명하다' implies a successful or targeted investigation that aims for a clear answer. You can use it to talk about solving complex problems or uncovering historical facts. This word will make your Korean sound much more educated and precise.
For C1 learners, '규명하다' is a standard part of your vocabulary. You use it naturally in debates, academic discussions, and professional settings. You are aware of the subtle differences between '규명하다', '해명하다', '입증하다', and '고찰하다'. You can use it in complex sentence structures, such as '-임이 규명됨에 따라' (As it was clarified that...). You also understand its cultural and political weight in Korea, particularly in the context of '진상 규명' (investigating the truth of social tragedies). You can use the word to discuss abstract philosophical truths or highly technical scientific mechanisms without hesitation. Your usage reflects an understanding of the Hanja roots and the specific registers it belongs to.
At the C2 level, you have a masterly command of '규명하다'. You can appreciate its use in high literature or complex legal documents where the exact nature of 'clarification' is debated. You might use it to discuss the 'ontological clarification' of a concept or the 'historical rectification and clarification' of a nation's past. You are capable of using it metaphorically or in highly specific professional contexts, such as '인과관계의 규명' (clarification of causal relationships) in a legal brief. You can also critique its usage in media, noting when it is used as a rhetorical tool to sound more authoritative. You understand the full spectrum of its word family and can switch between active, passive, and noun forms with perfect stylistic accuracy.

규명하다 in 30 Sekunden

  • A formal verb used to describe the act of investigating and clarifying the truth or the cause of a significant event or phenomenon.
  • Commonly found in news, academic papers, and legal contexts, focusing on the successful revelation of facts after a thorough process.
  • It is a combination of 'investigate' and 'clear', implying that the result of the investigation is a transparent and understandable explanation.
  • Used with objects like 'cause', 'truth', and 'reality', it signifies a professional and authoritative pursuit of knowledge and accountability.

The Korean verb 규명하다 (gyumyeong-hada) is a sophisticated and formal term that translates primarily to 'to investigate and clarify' or 'to bring the truth to light.' It is composed of two Hanja characters: 糾 (gyu), meaning to investigate or examine closely, and 明 (myeong), meaning bright or clear. Therefore, at its core, the word describes the process of taking a confusing, hidden, or complex situation and applying rigorous investigation to make the facts clear and understandable to everyone. This is not a word you would typically use for finding your lost keys or checking why the toast is burnt; rather, it is reserved for significant matters such as scientific breakthroughs, historical inquiries, criminal investigations, and the uncovering of systemic corruption.

Formal Context
This verb is most frequently encountered in news broadcasts, academic journals, and official government reports. It implies a high level of authority and a commitment to objective truth.
The Objective
Unlike simple 'investigation' (조사), 규명하다 focuses on the outcome—the 'clarification' of the cause (원인) or the truth (진실).

경찰은 이번 사고의 정확한 원인을 규명하기 위해 전담팀을 구성했습니다.

Translation: The police formed a dedicated team to clarify the exact cause of this accident.

In academic research, the word is indispensable. Scientists use it when they discover the mechanism behind a disease or the reason for a natural phenomenon. For example, 'the mechanism of cancer cell growth was clarified' would use '규명되었다' (the passive form). It suggests that the research has reached a definitive conclusion that moves the field forward. In historical contexts, it is used when researchers try to uncover the facts of past events that have been obscured by time or political manipulation, such as 'clarifying the truth of the movement' (운동의 진실을 규명하다).

과학자들은 마침내 그 질병의 유전적 요인을 규명하는 데 성공했습니다.

Translation: Scientists finally succeeded in clarifying the genetic factors of that disease.
Collocation with 'Truth'
진실을 규명하다 (To clarify the truth) is one of the most common pairings, often used in legal or social justice contexts.

Furthermore, the word carries a sense of duty. When a society demands that the 'truth be clarified' regarding a disaster or a scandal, they use the phrase '진상 규명' (investigation of the truth/real situation). This noun form is a staple of protest banners and political speeches in Korea. It implies that the public has a right to know the facts and that those in power have an obligation to provide a transparent explanation. Thus, using '규명하다' elevates the conversation from mere curiosity to a formal pursuit of accountability and knowledge.

유가족들은 참사의 진상 규명을 강력히 촉구하고 있습니다.

Translation: The bereaved families are strongly calling for the clarification of the truth behind the disaster.

새로운 증거가 나타나면서 사건의 실체가 규명될 것으로 보입니다.

Translation: As new evidence appears, it is expected that the reality of the case will be clarified.

Using 규명하다 correctly requires understanding its grammatical environment and its typical objects. Because it is a transitive verb, it almost always takes an object marked with the particles -을/를. The objects are usually abstract concepts related to facts, causes, or truths. Common objects include 원인 (cause), 진실 (truth), 실체 (true nature/substance), 사실 (fact), and 메커니즘 (mechanism). The verb structure is often '[Object]을/를 규명하다'.

정부는 환경 오염의 근본적인 원인을 규명하기로 약속했습니다.

Translation: The government promised to clarify the fundamental cause of the environmental pollution.

In many cases, especially in academic writing, you will see the passive form 규명되다. This is used when the focus is on the discovery itself rather than who made it. The structure changes to '[Subject]이/가 규명되다'. For instance, 'The cause of the fire was clarified' becomes '화재의 원인이 규명되었다.' This passive usage is extremely common in scientific reporting to maintain an objective tone.

Active vs. Passive
Active: 학자들이 원인을 규명했다. (Scholars clarified the cause.) / Passive: 원인이 규명되었다. (The cause was clarified.)

Another common pattern involves the use of the intent or purpose markers like -기 위해 (in order to) or -고자 (with the intent to). Since 'clarifying' is a goal-oriented action, these structures are natural. '진실을 규명하기 위해 노력하다' (To strive to clarify the truth) is a phrase you will hear in many documentaries and investigative news segments.

이번 연구의 목적은 노화의 과정을 분자 수준에서 규명하는 데 있습니다.

Translation: The purpose of this study lies in clarifying the process of aging at the molecular level.

When discussing historical or legal matters, '규명하다' often appears alongside adverbs that emphasize the difficulty or the necessity of the task, such as 철저히 (thoroughly), 명확히 (clearly), or 반드시 (certainly). Phrases like '철저히 규명하다' (to investigate and clarify thoroughly) suggest that no stone will be left unturned. This adds a layer of intensity to the verb, signaling that the investigation is serious and exhaustive.

사건의 전말이 명명백백하게 규명되어야 합니다.

Translation: The full story of the case must be clarified clearly and unmistakably.

Lastly, consider the noun form 규명. It is often combined with 촉구하다 (to urge) or 요구하다 (to demand). In social movements, you will often see the phrase '진상 규명 촉구' (Urging the clarification of the truth). This shows how the word functions as a key component of formal demands for transparency in Korean society.

To hear 규명하다 in its natural habitat, you should tune into Korean news channels like KBS, MBC, or JTBC. It is a staple of the 'News Desk' or 'News 9'. When a major political scandal breaks or a large-scale industrial accident occurs, the anchor will invariably use this word to describe the ongoing investigation. It provides a sense of gravity that simpler words like '알아보다' (to look into) lack. For example, '검찰은 비자금 조성 의혹을 규명하기 위해 수사력을 집중하고 있습니다' (The prosecution is concentrating its investigative power to clarify the suspicions of slush fund creation).

Academic Seminars
Professors and researchers use this word when presenting findings. It marks the transition from hypothesis to proven fact.
Legal Dramas
In courtroom scenes, lawyers will argue that the 'truth of the case has not yet been clarified' (사건의 진실이 아직 규명되지 않았습니다).

이번 청문회는 사건의 진상을 규명하는 중요한 자리가 될 것입니다.

Translation: This hearing will be an important occasion to clarify the truth of the incident.

Beyond the news, you will find this word in documentaries, particularly those that deal with historical mysteries or scientific explorations. A narrator might say, '수십 년간 베일에 싸여 있던 진실이 이제야 규명되었습니다' (The truth, which had been shrouded in a veil for decades, has finally been clarified). This usage highlights the 'unveiling' aspect of the word, where something hidden is finally brought into the light of day. It is also used in medical contexts when doctors explain the results of a biopsy or a complex diagnostic process to a patient's family, though usually in a very formal setting.

In business, it might be used during a crisis management meeting. If a company's product fails, the CEO might issue a statement saying, '우리는 이번 결함의 원인을 철저히 규명하고 재발 방지 대책을 마련하겠습니다' (We will thoroughly clarify the cause of this defect and prepare measures to prevent recurrence). Here, the word serves to reassure stakeholders that the company is taking a professional, rigorous approach to solving the problem. It is much more reassuring than saying 'we will look into it.'

전문가들은 블랙박스 분석을 통해 사고 경위를 규명하고 있습니다.

Translation: Experts are clarifying the circumstances of the accident through black box analysis.

One of the most common mistakes learners make with 규명하다 is using it in too casual a context. Because it is a high-register, formal word, using it with friends or in everyday situations can sound strange or even sarcastic. For example, if you ask a friend why they are late, you should use '왜 늦었어?' or '이유가 뭐야?', not '늦은 원인을 규명해라' (Clarify the cause of your lateness), unless you are intentionally making a joke by sounding like a robotic investigator.

Confusing with '조사하다'
조사하다 (investigate) is the process. 규명하다 (clarify) is the process with the specific intent of reaching a clear explanation. You can investigate (조사) without ever clarifying (규명) the truth.
Confusing with '해명하다'
해명하다 (explain/exonerate) is usually done by the person involved in a scandal to explain their own actions. 규명하다 is usually done by a third party (investigator/scientist) to find the objective truth.

X 내 숙제가 어디 갔는지 규명해 봐.
O 내 숙제가 어디 갔는지 찾아 봐.

Note: 'Find my homework' is too trivial for '규명하다'.

Another mistake involves the incorrect use of the passive form. Learners sometimes say '원인이 규명했다' (The cause clarified), forgetting that the cause is the thing being clarified. The correct form must be '원인이 규명되었다' (The cause was clarified). Always check if your subject is the one doing the investigating or the thing being investigated. If it's the thing being investigated, use the passive -되다 ending.

Finally, be careful with the Hanja. While you don't need to write it, knowing that 'myeong' (明) means 'clear' helps avoid confusion with other 'gyu' words like '규제하다' (to regulate) or '규정하다' (to stipulate). '규명하다' is always about making something unclear clear. If the goal isn't clarity or truth-finding, it's likely the wrong word.

정치인은 자신의 의혹을 해명했고, 검찰은 그 의혹의 진위를 규명했습니다.

Translation: The politician explained (exonerated) his suspicions, and the prosecution clarified (investigated) the truth of those suspicions.

To truly master 규명하다, you must see how it sits alongside its synonyms. The most common alternative is 밝히다. While '밝히다' also means 'to reveal' or 'to clarify,' it is much broader and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. You can 'reveal' your feelings (마음을 밝히다), but you wouldn't '규명' your feelings unless you were performing a psychological study on them. '밝히다' is the everyday version of '규명하다'.

규명하다 vs. 조사하다
조사하다 is the act of looking (investigating). 규명하다 is the act of investigating until the truth is transparent. You can '조사' for years without ever '규명'-ing anything.
규명하다 vs. 파헤치다
파헤치다 (to dig up/uncover) is more visceral and often used in investigative journalism. It implies digging through dirt or secrets. 규명하다 is more clinical and academic.

Another related word is 해명하다. As mentioned in the mistakes section, '해명하다' is often used when someone is defending themselves or explaining a misunderstanding. If a celebrity is caught in a scandal, they '해명' (explain/clarify) their side of the story. '규명하다' is what the public or the police do to find the actual facts, regardless of what the celebrity says.

사건의 진상을 규명하는 것과 개인의 잘못을 단죄하는 것은 별개의 문제입니다.

Translation: Clarifying the truth of the case and punishing an individual's wrongdoing are separate issues.

In scientific contexts, you might use 입증하다 (to prove) or 검증하다 (to verify). '규명하다' is the overarching term for finding the 'why' and 'how,' while '입증하다' is specifically about providing the evidence to support a claim. For example, you might '규명' the mechanism of a drug, and then '입증' its effectiveness through clinical trials. '분석하다' (to analyze) is another neighbor, focusing on the logical breakdown of data as part of the '규명' process.

진실을 밝히기 위해 모든 수단을 동원하여 사건을 규명해야 합니다.

Translation: In order to reveal (밝히다) the truth, we must use all means to clarify (규명하다) the case.

How Formal Is It?

Wusstest du?

The character 糾 (gyu) originally depicted several strands of silk being twisted together to check their quality, which evolved into the meaning of 'investigating' or 'examining' closely.

Aussprachehilfe

UK /kju.mjʌŋ.ɦa.da/
US /kju.mjʌŋ.hɑ.də/
The primary stress is on the second syllable 'myeong', which is the core of the meaning (clarity).
Reimt sich auf
유명하다 (to be famous) 증명하다 (to prove) 설명하다 (to explain) 투명하다 (to be transparent) 분명하다 (to be clear) 성명하다 (to declare) 현명하다 (to be wise) 공명하다 (to resonate)
Häufige Fehler
  • Pronouncing '규' like '구' (ku) - make sure to include the 'y' sound.
  • Aspirating the 'k' sound too much - it should be soft.
  • Dropping the 'h' in 'hada' when speaking fast.
  • Shortening the 'myeong' vowel too much.
  • Confusing the pitch accent in certain dialects.

Schwierigkeitsgrad

Lesen 4/5

Common in newspapers but requires Hanja knowledge for deep understanding.

Schreiben 5/5

Requires high-level register awareness to use correctly in essays.

Sprechen 4/5

Used in presentations or formal debates, not in casual talk.

Hören 3/5

Frequent in news broadcasts; easy to recognize once learned.

Was du als Nächstes lernen solltest

Voraussetzungen

알다 찾다 조사하다 이유 원인

Als Nächstes lernen

해명하다 입증하다 고찰하다 논증하다 판명되다

Fortgeschritten

천착하다 (to dig deep) 천명하다 (to declare clearly) 소명하다 (to justify)

Wichtige Grammatik

Passive voice with -되다

원인이 규명되었다.

Intent marker -기 위해

진실을 규명하기 위해 조사했다.

Reasoning with -음에 따라

사실이 규명됨에 따라...

Noun modification with -는

원인을 규명하는 과정.

Indirect quotation -겠다고

규명하겠다고 약속했다.

Beispiele nach Niveau

1

경찰이 왜 그런지 알아요.

The police know why.

A1 uses simple '알다' (to know).

2

이유를 찾고 싶어요.

I want to find the reason.

A1 uses '찾다' (to find).

3

선생님이 설명해요.

The teacher explains.

A1 uses '설명하다' (to explain).

4

진실을 말해 주세요.

Please tell me the truth.

A1 uses '말하다' (to tell).

5

왜 아파요? 몰라요.

Why does it hurt? I don't know.

A1 uses '모르다' (to not know).

6

이것은 무엇입니까?

What is this?

Basic questioning.

7

공부를 많이 해요.

I study a lot.

Study as a way to find answers.

8

답을 찾았어요.

I found the answer.

A1 uses '답' (answer) and '찾다'.

1

사고 이유를 조사하고 있어요.

They are investigating the reason for the accident.

A2 uses '조사하다' (investigate).

2

문제를 밝히는 것이 중요해요.

It is important to reveal the problem.

A2 uses '밝히다' (to reveal).

3

과학자가 원인을 찾아요.

A scientist finds the cause.

A2 uses '원인' (cause) and '찾다'.

4

어떻게 됐는지 알고 싶습니다.

I want to know how it happened.

Polite 'know' form.

5

경찰이 범인을 찾으려고 해요.

The police are trying to find the criminal.

Intentional '-으려고 하다'.

6

이 뉴스에서 이유를 말해요.

This news tells the reason.

A2 uses '뉴스' and '이유'.

7

사실을 확인해야 합니다.

We must confirm the facts.

A2 uses '확인하다' (confirm).

8

진짜 이유가 궁금해요.

I'm curious about the real reason.

A2 uses '궁금하다' (to be curious).

1

정부는 사고의 원인을 규명하려고 노력 중입니다.

The government is trying to clarify the cause of the accident.

B1 starts using '규명하다' with '노력 중'.

2

진실을 규명하는 일은 쉽지 않습니다.

Clarifying the truth is not easy.

Gerund form '-하는 일'.

3

사건의 진상이 드디어 규명되었습니다.

The truth of the case has finally been clarified.

Passive '규명되었다'.

4

전문가들이 화재 원인을 규명하고 있습니다.

Experts are clarifying the cause of the fire.

Present progressive '-고 있다'.

5

역사적 사실을 규명하는 것은 중요합니다.

Clarifying historical facts is important.

Topic marker with abstract concept.

6

왜 이런 일이 생겼는지 규명해야 해요.

We must clarify why this kind of thing happened.

Indirect question clause '-는지'.

7

그 연구는 암의 원인을 규명했습니다.

That study clarified the cause of cancer.

Simple past tense for achievement.

8

진상을 규명하라는 목소리가 커지고 있습니다.

Voices demanding the truth be clarified are growing.

Imperative quote '-하라는'.

1

이번 조사는 비리의 실체를 규명하는 데 초점을 맞추고 있습니다.

This investigation is focusing on clarifying the reality of the corruption.

Focusing on '-에 초점을 맞추다'.

2

과학자들은 기후 변화의 메커니즘을 규명해 냈습니다.

Scientists have succeeded in clarifying the mechanism of climate change.

Compound verb '-해 내다' (to manage to do).

3

철저한 조사를 통해 사건의 전말을 규명해야 합니다.

We must clarify the full story of the case through a thorough investigation.

Adverb '철저한' (thorough).

4

유전자 분석을 통해 범인의 신원이 규명되었습니다.

The identity of the criminal was clarified through DNA analysis.

Passive voice with '통해' (through).

5

이 책은 근대화의 과정을 사회학적으로 규명하고 있다.

This book clarifies the process of modernization sociologically.

Formal written style '-고 있다'.

6

양측의 주장이 엇갈려 진실 규명이 어렵습니다.

It is difficult to clarify the truth because both sides' claims conflict.

Reasoning with '-아/어서' or '엇갈려'.

7

사고의 근본 원인을 규명하는 것이 재발 방지의 핵심입니다.

Clarifying the fundamental cause of the accident is key to preventing recurrence.

Noun phrase as subject.

8

검찰은 이번 사건의 배후를 규명하겠다고 밝혔습니다.

The prosecution announced that they would clarify the mastermind behind this case.

Quoted future intent '-겠다고 밝히다'.

1

현대 물리학은 우주의 기원을 규명하기 위해 끊임없이 도전하고 있다.

Modern physics is constantly challenging itself to clarify the origin of the universe.

Advanced formal vocabulary like '기원' and '끊임없이'.

2

과거사 위원회는 억울한 죽음의 진상을 규명하는 데 힘쓰고 있다.

The historical truth commission is striving to clarify the truth behind unjust deaths.

Specific term '과거사 위원회' (Truth Commission).

3

해당 논문은 알츠하이머병의 발병 기전을 규명한 공로로 상을 받았다.

The paper won an award for clarifying the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease.

Technical term '발병 기전' (pathogenesis).

4

사건의 실체가 규명됨에 따라 관련자들이 구속되었습니다.

As the reality of the case was clarified, those involved were arrested.

Causal conjunction '-함에 따라'.

5

심리학적으로 공포의 원인을 규명하려는 시도가 이어지고 있습니다.

Attempts to clarify the cause of fear psychologically are continuing.

Abstract psychological context.

6

정치적 외압 없이 진실이 규명될 수 있을지가 관건입니다.

The key is whether the truth can be clarified without political pressure.

Noun '관건' (key/crucial point).

7

새로운 증거의 발견은 사건 규명의 결정적인 단서가 되었다.

The discovery of new evidence became a decisive clue in clarifying the case.

Noun form '규명' as a modifier.

8

그의 결백은 엄격한 조사를 통해 규명될 것으로 기대됩니다.

It is expected that his innocence will be clarified through a strict investigation.

Passive future expectation '-될 것으로 기대되다'.

1

인간 의식의 본질을 규명하는 것은 철학의 영원한 과제이다.

Clarifying the essence of human consciousness is an eternal task of philosophy.

Deep philosophical register.

2

경제적 불평등의 구조적 원인을 규명하려는 다학제적 접근이 필요하다.

A multidisciplinary approach is needed to clarify the structural causes of economic inequality.

High-level academic term '다학제적' (multidisciplinary).

3

사법부는 권력의 남용 여부를 철저히 규명하여 법치주의를 수호해야 한다.

The judiciary must protect the rule of law by thoroughly clarifying whether there was an abuse of power.

Legal/Political discourse.

4

고고학적 발굴을 통해 잊혀진 왕국의 실체가 규명되기에 이르렀다.

Through archaeological excavation, the reality of the forgotten kingdom came to be clarified.

Advanced ending '-기에 이르다' (reached the point of).

5

미세 먼지의 성분과 발생 경로를 과학적으로 규명하는 작업이 완료되었다.

The work of scientifically clarifying the composition and generation path of fine dust has been completed.

Technical environmental science.

6

이념적 편향성 없이 역사적 과오를 규명하는 것은 민족적 화해의 전제 조건이다.

Clarifying historical mistakes without ideological bias is a prerequisite for national reconciliation.

Complex sociopolitical reasoning.

7

블랙홀의 내부 구조를 규명하려는 이론적 연구가 활발히 진행 중이다.

Theoretical research to clarify the internal structure of black holes is actively underway.

Astrophysical context.

8

피해자들의 명예 회복을 위해서는 진상 규명이 선행되어야 함은 자명하다.

It is self-evident that clarifying the truth must come first to restore the honor of the victims.

Formal logic '자명하다' (self-evident).

Gegenteile

은폐하다 숨기다 호도하다

Häufige Kollokationen

원인을 규명하다
진상을 규명하다
실체를 규명하다
사실을 규명하다
메커니즘을 규명하다
전말을 규명하다
의혹을 규명하다
정체를 규명하다
책임을 규명하다
관계가 규명되다

Häufige Phrasen

진상 규명 위원회

— A Truth Commission or an Investigative Committee formed to clarify a specific event.

진상 규명 위원회가 활동을 시작했다.

철저한 규명

— A thorough clarification, implying no details were missed.

철저한 규명을 약속합니다.

규명에 나서다

— To step forward or start the process of clarifying something.

검찰이 직접 규명에 나섰다.

규명이 시급하다

— Clarification is urgent.

원인 규명이 시급한 상황입니다.

규명할 과제

— A task or problem that needs to be clarified.

우리 앞에 규명할 과제가 많다.

규명에 실패하다

— To fail in clarifying the truth or cause.

결국 원인 규명에 실패했다.

규명에 주력하다

— To focus all efforts on clarifying something.

경찰은 범행 동기 규명에 주력하고 있다.

규명된 바 없다

— Nothing has been clarified yet (formal).

아직 정확히 규명된 바 없다.

규명의 열쇠

— The key to clarifying something.

이 증거가 규명의 열쇠가 될 것이다.

명백히 규명하다

— To clarify clearly and obviously.

시시비비를 명백히 규명해야 한다.

Wird oft verwechselt mit

규명하다 vs 해명하다

해명하다 is for explaining yourself; 규명하다 is for finding objective truth.

규명하다 vs 조사하다

조사하다 is the act of looking; 규명하다 is the act of successfully explaining.

규명하다 vs 입증하다

입증하다 is to prove a point; 규명하다 is to explain a whole situation or cause.

Redewendungen & Ausdrücke

"베일을 벗기다"

— To take off the veil; similar to 규명하다 in revealing a hidden truth.

사건의 베일을 벗기다.

Journalistic
"시시비비를 가리다"

— To distinguish right from wrong; a step often involved in 규명하다.

시시비비를 명확히 가려야 한다.

General
"옥석을 가리다"

— To distinguish gems from stones; to clarify value or truth.

진실의 옥석을 가리는 과정이다.

Literary
"흑백을 가리다"

— To distinguish black from white; to clarify the truth of a matter.

법정에서 흑백을 가리자.

General
"뿌리를 뽑다"

— To pull out by the roots; often follows the act of 규명하다 (finding the cause).

비리의 뿌리를 뽑기 위해 진상을 규명하다.

Metaphorical
"수면 위로 떠오르다"

— To rise above the surface; when a truth is clarified (규명되다).

진실이 수면 위로 떠올랐다.

Journalistic
"실마리를 찾다"

— To find a clue; the beginning of the 규명 process.

규명의 실마리를 찾았다.

General
"빙산의 일각"

— Tip of the iceberg; used when only a small part of what needs to be 규명-ed is known.

지금까지 규명된 것은 빙산의 일각이다.

General
"안갯속에 있다"

— To be in the fog; the state before something is 규명되다.

사건은 여전히 안갯속에 있다.

Literary
"종지부를 찍다"

— To put a full stop; when 규명하다 finally ends a long debate.

논란에 종지부를 찍을 규명이 필요하다.

Formal

Leicht verwechselbar

규명하다 vs 증명하다

Both involve finding truth.

증명하다 is 'to prove' a specific claim. 규명하다 is 'to clarify' a complex situation.

수학 문제를 증명하다 vs. 사고 원인을 규명하다.

규명하다 vs 설명하다

Both involve telling why.

설명하다 is simple 'explaining'. 규명하다 involves a formal investigation first.

방법을 설명하다 vs. 진실을 규명하다.

규명하다 vs 밝히다

Both mean to make clear.

밝히다 is more general and can be informal. 규명하다 is strictly formal.

이름을 밝히다 vs. 메커니즘을 규명하다.

규명하다 vs 파악하다

Both involve understanding.

파악하다 is 'to grasp' or 'to realize'. 규명하다 is 'to investigate and explain' to others.

상황을 파악하다 vs. 원인을 규명하다.

규명하다 vs 고찰하다

Both are academic.

고찰하다 is to 'contemplate' or 'examine' a topic deeply in writing. 규명하다 is to 'clarify' a specific fact.

사상을 고찰하다 vs. 사실을 규명하다.

Satzmuster

B2

[Noun]의 원인을 규명하다

화재의 원인을 규명하다.

B2

[Noun]이/가 규명되다

진실이 규명되었다.

C1

[Noun]을/를 규명하는 데 주력하다

원인을 규명하는 데 주력하고 있다.

C1

[Noun]임이 규명되다

사실임이 규명되었다.

C2

[Noun]의 실체를 철저히 규명하다

사건의 실체를 철저히 규명하다.

B2

진상 규명을 촉구하다

시민들이 진상 규명을 촉구했다.

C1

규명할 필요가 있다

이 부분은 더 규명할 필요가 있다.

C2

규명의 실마리를 제공하다

이 증거가 규명의 실마리를 제공했다.

Wortfamilie

Substantive

규명 (clarification/investigation)
진상규명 (truth investigation)
원인규명 (cause clarification)

Verben

규명되다 (to be clarified)
규명시키다 (to make someone clarify - rare)

Verwandt

조사 (investigation)
밝힘 (revelation)
해명 (explanation)
증명 (proof)
확인 (confirmation)

So verwendest du es

frequency

High in news and academic writing; low in daily conversation.

Häufige Fehler
  • 원인이 규명했다 원인이 규명되었다

    The 'cause' doesn't investigate; it is investigated. Use the passive form.

  • 친구의 비밀을 규명했다 친구의 비밀을 알아냈다

    A friend's secret is too personal/casual for '규명하다'.

  • 규명하다 used for 'explaining' a math problem to a student. 설명하다

    Teaching/explaining is '설명하다'. '규명하다' is for finding out new facts.

  • Using '해명하다' when you mean 'investigate the truth'. 규명하다

    '해명하다' is for justifying oneself. '규명하다' is for finding objective truth.

  • Pronouncing '규' as '구'. 규 (Gyu)

    The 'y' sound is essential in 'Gyu'.

Tipps

Academic Writing

In an essay, use '규명하다' instead of '알아내다' to sound more professional.

Passive Ending

Remember that '-되다' makes it passive. '원인이 규명되었다' is a very common phrase.

Common Objects

Always associate '규명하다' with '원인' (cause) and '진실' (truth).

Formal Settings

Save this word for presentations, reports, and formal debates.

Bright Light

Think of the 'myeong' in 'myeong-dong' (bright town) or 'myeong-baek' (obvious). It's all about light.

News Cues

When you hear '규명', expect the next few sentences to explain the 'why' of a story.

Collocation

Use '철저히' (thoroughly) before '규명하다' for maximum impact.

Register Check

If you are talking to a child, use '밝혀내다' instead.

Social Justice

Understand that in Korea, '규명' often implies a demand for justice.

Daily Practice

Look for the word in the 'Social' or 'Science' section of a Korean news site.

Einprägen

Eselsbrücke

Think of 'Gyu' as a magnifying glass and 'Myeong' as a lightbulb. You use the glass to investigate (Gyu) until the lightbulb (Myeong) turns on and everything is clear.

Visuelle Assoziation

Imagine a detective standing in a dark room with a single flashlight. As he points it at an object, the 'myeong' (light) reveals the 'gyu' (details) of what happened.

Word Web

Investigation Clarity Truth Science News Police Cause Facts

Herausforderung

Try to find a news article in Korean today that contains the word '원인' and see if '규명' appears nearby.

Wortherkunft

Derived from Sino-Korean (Hanja).

Ursprüngliche Bedeutung: To examine (糾) until it is bright/clear (明).

Sino-Korean

Kultureller Kontext

Be sensitive when using this word regarding historical tragedies, as it implies a serious search for justice.

In English, we might use 'ascertain' or 'elucidate' in similar formal contexts, though 'clarify' is the most common translation.

The 'Special Act on Finding the Truth of the May 18th Democratization Movement' uses the term '진상규명'. Scientific journals like 'Nature' Korean editions use it for 'elucidating' mechanisms. Legal dramas like 'Stranger' (비밀의 숲) frequently use it in prosecution scenes.

Im Alltag üben

Kontexte aus dem Alltag

Science

  • 메커니즘 규명
  • 원인 규명
  • 실험을 통한 규명
  • 규명된 원리

Law/Police

  • 진상 규명
  • 사건 경위 규명
  • 책임 소재 규명
  • 철저한 규명

History

  • 과거사 규명
  • 사실 관계 규명
  • 진실 규명 위원회
  • 역사적 규명

Business

  • 결함 원인 규명
  • 사고 규명 보고서
  • 책임 규명
  • 문제 규명

Politics

  • 의혹 규명
  • 비리 규명
  • 청문회를 통한 규명
  • 규명 촉구

Gesprächseinstiege

"이번 사고의 원인이 무엇이라고 규명되었나요?"

"과학자들이 드디어 그 미스터리를 규명했다는 소식 들으셨어요?"

"정치권에서 진상 규명을 요구하는 목소리가 높은데, 어떻게 생각하세요?"

"역사적 진실을 규명하는 것이 왜 중요하다고 생각하시나요?"

"새로운 기술의 부작용을 규명하는 데 얼마나 걸릴까요?"

Tagebuch-Impulse

최근 뉴스에서 '규명하다'라는 단어가 사용된 사례를 적고 그 배경을 설명해 보세요.

내가 과학자라면 규명하고 싶은 세상의 미스터리는 무엇인가요?

사회적으로 진실 규명이 가장 시급한 문제는 무엇이라고 생각합니까?

과거의 잘못을 규명하는 것이 미래로 나아가는 데 어떤 도움을 줄까요?

복잡한 문제를 해결하기 위해 원인을 규명했던 개인적인 경험을 써 보세요.

Häufig gestellte Fragen

10 Fragen

No, that's too trivial. Use '찾다' for physical objects like wallets. 규명하다 is for abstract truths or causes.

No, it's also used for positive things like scientific breakthroughs or clarifying historical achievements.

조사 is the 'searching' process. 규명 is the 'clarifying' result. You can investigate (조사) without ever reaching a clarification (규명).

Only if you are being very sarcastic or joking. It sounds like you are asking them to perform a scientific study on your heart.

Yes, '규명되다' is very common in news and research papers where the focus is on the discovery.

Yes, it is considered an upper-intermediate word because it is found in formal literature and media.

糾 (to investigate) and 明 (clear/bright).

Yes, especially when discussing the cause of a problem or the result of a market analysis.

It is a 'Truth Commission' usually formed to investigate government or social scandals.

Not inherently, but it is often used in the context of problems, crimes, and mysteries.

Teste dich selbst 200 Fragen

writing

Write a formal sentence about clarifying the cause of an accident.

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Use the word '진실' and '규명하다' in a sentence.

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate: 'The cause of the disease was clarified.'

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Write a sentence using '철저히' and '규명하다'.

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Write a sentence using the noun form '규명'.

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate: 'Scientists are clarifying the mechanism.'

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Write a sentence about historical facts using '규명하다'.

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Use '-기 위해' with '규명하다'.

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate: 'The truth will be clarified soon.'

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Write a sentence using '의혹' and '규명하다'.

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate: 'Clarifying the cause is the first step.'

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Write a sentence about a mystery being clarified.

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Use '규명' in a sentence about a political scandal.

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate: 'The research clarified the relationship.'

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Write a sentence using the passive form '규명되다'.

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Use '명확히' with '규명하다'.

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate: 'We need to clarify why this happened.'

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Write a sentence about a fire investigation.

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Use '실체' and '규명하다' in a sentence.

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate: 'The identity was clarified by DNA.'

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Pronounce the word '규명하다' clearly.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say 'Clarify the cause' in Korean.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say 'The truth was clarified' in Korean.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Ask 'When will the cause be clarified?' in Korean.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Explain what '규명하다' means using simple Korean.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say 'We must clarify the truth' in a formal tone.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Use '규명하다' in a sentence about a scientific discovery.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say 'Thoroughly investigate' using '규명'.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Express the need for a truth commission.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say 'The cause of the fire is being clarified.'

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Describe a news anchor reporting on a scandal.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say 'It is difficult to clarify the facts.'

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say 'We focus on clarifying the mechanism.'

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Use '규명' in a sentence about history.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say 'The reality was revealed.'

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Ask 'Is the cause of the problem clarified?'

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say 'Clarify the identity through DNA.'

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say 'I want to clarify why this happened.'

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say 'Investigation of the truth is urgent.'

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say 'The full story is not yet clarified.'

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen to the word: '규명'. What is the second syllable?

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

Listen to: '원인 규명'. What are they looking for?

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

Listen to: '진실을 규명하다'. What is the action?

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

Listen to: '규명되었다'. Is it past or future?

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

Listen to: '철저히 규명하겠습니다'. Is the speaker serious?

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

Listen to: '규명 위원회'. What kind of group is this?

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

Listen to: '메커니즘 규명'. In what subject would you hear this?

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

Listen to: '규명에 나섰다'. Did they start or finish?

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

Listen to: '규명되지 않은'. Is it known?

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

Listen to: '실체 규명'. What are they trying to find?

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

Listen to: '규명이 필요하다'. Is it optional?

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

Listen to: '역사적 규명'. What is the topic?

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

Listen to: '규명될 것으로 보인다'. Is it a certainty?

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

Listen to: '의혹 규명'. What is being clarified?

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

Listen to: '전말을 규명하다'. Does it mean a part or the whole?

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

/ 200 correct

Perfect score!

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