At the A1 level, you don't need to use '역설하다' yourself, as it is a very advanced and formal word. However, it's good to know that it is related to '말하다' (to speak) but much stronger. Think of it as 'speaking very, very strongly.' In A1, you would simply say '크게 말해요' (speak loudly) or '중요해요' (it's important). You won't see this word in basic textbooks, but you might hear it on the news. Just remember: it means someone is saying something very important with a lot of energy.
At the A2 level, you might encounter '역설하다' in short news clips or simple reading passages about famous people. While you still shouldn't worry about using it in daily life, you can start to recognize it as a formal version of '강조하다' (to emphasize). If a teacher says '이 단어를 역설했어요,' they mean they really want you to remember that word. It's a combination of 'power' (힘) and 'speaking' (말하기). It's used when someone wants to make sure their point is understood clearly.
At the B1 level, you are moving into intermediate Korean where you start learning formal 'Hanja' based words. '역설하다' is a great word to recognize in news reports or when reading about social issues. You should understand that it's different from '주장하다' (to claim). '주장하다' is about the idea, but '역설하다' is about the *force* behind the idea. You might start using it in your writing tasks (like TOPIK II writing) to describe what a speaker in a listening passage was doing. It makes your writing sound more professional.
At the B2 level, you should be able to use '역설하다' correctly in formal contexts. This is the level where you distinguish between '강조하다' (general emphasis) and '역설하다' (rhetorical, forceful emphasis in speech/writing). You should be able to use it in sentences like '그는 교육의 필요성을 역설했다.' You also need to be careful not to confuse it with the noun '역설' (paradox). At this stage, using '역설하다' in a presentation or a formal essay will significantly improve your score and show you have a deep understanding of Korean register.
At the C1 level, you should have a nuanced command of '역설하다.' You can use it to describe subtle rhetorical strategies in complex texts. You'll recognize the difference between '역설하다,' '설파하다,' and '천명하다.' You can use it to analyze a politician's speech, noting not just what they said, but how they '역설'ed certain points to sway public opinion. You are also expected to handle the homonym '역설' (paradox) fluently without confusion, even when both appear in the same academic text. Your usage should be precise and contextually perfect.
At the C2 level, '역설하다' is a standard part of your academic and professional lexicon. You can use it with various adverbs and complex grammar structures to convey precise shades of meaning. You might use it in a literary critique or a high-level legal argument. You understand its historical and Hanja roots deeply, and you can explain the subtle shift in tone it provides compared to its synonyms. You can fluently switch between the verb '역설하다' and the noun '역설' (paradox) in a single high-level discussion about philosophy or rhetoric without any hesitation.

역설하다 in 30 Sekunden

  • A formal verb meaning 'to emphasize with force'.
  • Used in speeches, news, and academic writing.
  • Focuses on the speaker's passion and urgency.
  • Often collocated with 'importance' or 'necessity'.

The Korean verb 역설하다 (yeok-seol-ha-da) is a sophisticated term primarily used to describe the act of emphasizing, stressing, or strongly advocating for a particular point, idea, or necessity. Derived from the Hanja characters 力 (power/force) and 說 (speak/theory), it literally translates to 'speaking with force.' Unlike the more common word 강조하다 (to emphasize), 역설하다 carries a nuance of passion, urgency, and rhetorical effort. It is the kind of word you would use when a leader gives a moving speech about climate change or when an expert insists on the vital importance of a new policy during a public forum.

Formal Contexts
This word is frequently found in news reports, academic papers, and political speeches. It is rarely used in casual, everyday conversations between friends unless the topic is quite serious.
Rhetorical Intensity
It implies that the speaker is putting their full energy into making the listener understand the gravity of the situation.

대통령은 경제 개혁의 시급성을 다시 한번 역설했습니다.

Translation: The president once again emphasized the urgency of economic reform.

When using 역설하다, the object of the sentence is usually a 'necessity' (필요성), 'importance' (중요성), or a specific 'opinion' (주장). It suggests a level of conviction that goes beyond mere statement. Imagine a teacher who isn't just telling students to study, but is pleading with them about how education will change their entire future—that teacher is 역설하고 있는 것입니다 (is emphasizing).

환경 운동가는 플라스틱 사용 줄이기의 중요성을 역설하며 강연을 마쳤다.

Translation: The environmental activist finished the lecture by emphasizing the importance of reducing plastic use.
Usage in Media
Journalists use this word to summarize the main point of a powerful interview or a manifesto.

In summary, 역설하다 is your go-to word for high-stakes communication. It bridges the gap between simply saying something and fighting for it with words. It is an essential verb for anyone looking to master B2-level Korean, as it allows you to describe formal interactions with precision and depth. Whether in a debate or a formal essay, using this word shows a high level of vocabulary proficiency.

Grammatically, 역설하다 functions as a transitive verb, meaning it requires an object—usually the point or idea being emphasized. This object is typically followed by the particle ~을/를. Common objects include abstract nouns that represent concepts the speaker feels strongly about.

Pattern 1: [Noun]의 중요성을 역설하다
Emphasizing the importance of [Noun]. This is the most common collocation. For example, '건강의 중요성을 역설하다' (To emphasize the importance of health).

그는 새로운 기술 도입의 필요성을 강력히 역설했다.

Translation: He strongly emphasized the necessity of introducing new technology.

Another common way to use this verb is with the quote connective ~고 역설하다. This is used when you want to report what someone said while highlighting the forceful nature of their delivery. It translates to 'emphasized that...' or 'urged that...'.

전문가들은 지금이 투자의 적기라고 역설하고 있습니다.

Translation: Experts are emphasizing that now is the right time to invest.

You can also add adverbs to increase the intensity. Adverbs like 강력히 (strongly), 거듭 (repeatedly), or 힘주어 (with emphasis) are perfect partners for 역설하다. These combinations help paint a picture of a speaker who is deeply committed to their message.

Pattern 2: [Noun]을/를 위해 ~해야 한다고 역설하다
Emphasizing that one must do [Action] for the sake of [Noun]. This is common in persuasive writing.

역사학자는 과거의 교훈을 잊지 말아야 한다고 역설했다.

Translation: The historian emphasized that we must not forget the lessons of the past.

In academic writing, you might see it in the passive-adjacent form or as a noun phrase: ~에 대한 역설 (emphasis on...). However, the active verb form remains the most powerful way to convey the speaker's intent and energy. Mastery of these patterns will make your Korean sound more professional and persuasive.

While you might not hear 역설하다 at a grocery store or a cafe, it is a staple of Korean public life. If you turn on the 9 o'clock news (KBS, MBC, or SBS), you are almost guaranteed to hear it within the first ten minutes, especially during segments covering government briefings or international summits.

News & Media
News anchors use it to summarize the core message of a politician's speech. Instead of saying 'The politician said...', they say 'The politician 역설했다...', which immediately tells the audience that the following point was the most important part of the speech.

“이번 회담에서 평화의 가치를 역설한 대통령의 발언이 화제입니다.”

Translation: The president's remarks emphasizing the value of peace at this summit are a hot topic.

In the corporate world, during a '주간 회의' (weekly meeting) or a '발표' (presentation), a CEO or team leader might use 역설하다 to drive home a strategic goal. It signals that the topic is not up for casual debate but is a critical priority for the company's survival or growth.

Documentaries are another place where this word shines. Narrators use it to describe the life's work of scientists or activists. For instance, '그는 평생을 바쳐 기초 과학의 중요성을 역설해 왔다' (He has spent his whole life emphasizing the importance of basic science). It adds a layer of dignity and perseverance to the subject's actions.

Educational Settings
Professors in lectures often '역설' a specific theory or a historical lesson that they believe is fundamental to the students' understanding of the subject.

교수님께서는 창의적 사고의 필요성을 역설하셨다.

Translation: The professor emphasized the necessity of creative thinking.

Finally, you will see it in literature and high-end editorials (사설). It is a word that denotes authority and intellectual weight. Hearing or seeing 역설하다 is a signal to the listener or reader to pay close attention, as what follows is deemed vital by the speaker.

The most significant pitfall when learning 역설하다 is the 'Homonym Trap.' In Korean, the word '역설' (逆說) also means 'paradox.' While the characters are different in Hanja, they look and sound identical in Hangul. This can lead to confusion if you don't pay attention to the context or the grammatical particles.

Mistake 1: Confusing Paradox with Emphasis
If you see '역설적이다' (yeok-seol-jeok-i-da), it almost always means 'paradoxical.' If you see '역설하다,' it almost always means 'to emphasize.' Do not say '이 상황은 역설한다' to mean 'This situation is a paradox.'

❌ 이 문장은 역설한다. (This sentence emphasizes? Wait, what?)
✅ 이 문장은 역설적이다. (This sentence is paradoxical.)

Another common mistake is 'Register Mismatch.' Because 역설하다 is a formal, high-register word, using it in a very casual setting can sound strange or even sarcastic. If you tell your friend, 'I emphasized that we should eat pizza' using 역설했다, it sounds like you were giving a formal lecture about pizza in a suit and tie.

Thirdly, learners often forget the 'Force' component. 역설하다 isn't just a synonym for 'to mention' (언급하다). If someone mentions something briefly in passing, you cannot use 역설하다. It requires a sustained, forceful argument. Using it for a minor detail makes the description feel hyperbolic and inaccurate.

Mistake 2: Missing the Object Particle
Since it is a transitive verb, you must emphasize *something*. Learners sometimes forget the '~을/를' particle, making the sentence grammatically incomplete.

❌ 그는 역설했다. (He emphasized. - Incomplete)
✅ 그는 교육의 중요성을 역설했다. (He emphasized the importance of education.)

Finally, avoid using it with 'physical' force. You '역설' an idea or a theory, not a physical object. You wouldn't '역설' a door to open it. This seems obvious, but for learners who only see 'force' (力) in the Hanja, it's a distinction worth noting.

To truly master 역설하다, you need to know how it compares to its cousins. The Korean language has several ways to say 'emphasize,' each with its own flavor and level of formality.

역설하다 vs. 강조하다 (Gang-jo-ha-da)
강조하다 is the general, all-purpose word for 'to emphasize.' It can be used in both formal and informal contexts. 역설하다 is more formal and implies a much stronger, more passionate delivery, usually in a speech or writing.
역설하다 vs. 주장하다 (Ju-jang-ha-da)
주장하다 means 'to claim' or 'to assert.' While 역설하다 focuses on *how* something is said (with force), 주장하다 focuses on *what* is being said (the claim itself). You '역설' a point to support your '주장'.

그는 자신의 무죄를 주장하며, 증거의 조작 가능성을 역설했다.

Translation: He claimed his innocence and emphasized the possibility of evidence manipulation.

Other alternatives include 부각하다 (bu-gak-ha-da), which means 'to bring to the fore' or 'to highlight' (often used in visual or media contexts), and 역설(力說)조로 말하다, which means 'to speak in an emphatic tone.'

역설하다 vs. 설파하다 (Seol-pa-ha-da)
설파하다 means 'to explain or preach a theory thoroughly.' It is even more formal and often has a religious or philosophical connotation. 역설하다 is more common in modern secular debates.

정치인은 복지 정책의 확대를 역설했다.

Translation: The politician emphasized the expansion of welfare policies.

By choosing 역설하다 over these alternatives, you are specifically highlighting the speaker's effort and the gravity of the topic. It is a powerful tool for adding descriptive depth to your Korean writing and understanding the emotional undertones of formal speech.

How Formal Is It?

Wusstest du?

The character 說 can be pronounced 'seol' (speak), 'se' (persuade), or 'yeol' (joy). In '역설', it is 'seol'.

Aussprachehilfe

UK jʌk.s͈ʌl.ɦa.da
US jʌk.s͈ʌl.ɦa.da
The stress is relatively even, but the second syllable '설' often carries more weight because of the tense consonant.
Reimt sich auf
학설하다 (hak-seol-ha-da) 해설하다 (hae-seol-ha-da) 가설하다 (ga-seol-ha-da) 신설하다 (sin-seol-ha-da) 건설하다 (geon-seol-ha-da) 부설하다 (bu-seol-ha-da) 연설하다 (yeon-seol-ha-da) 직설하다 (jik-seol-ha-da)
Häufige Fehler
  • Pronouncing '설' as a soft 's' instead of a tense 'ss'.
  • Confusing the pitch with '역설' (paradox), though in modern Seoul dialect, these are usually distinguished by context.
  • Mumbling the 'ㅎ' in '하다', making it sound like '역설아다'.
  • Over-emphasizing the '역' too much.
  • Failing to pause slightly after '역' for the glottal stop.

Schwierigkeitsgrad

Lesen 4/5

Common in news and books but requires knowing Hanja context.

Schreiben 5/5

Hard to use naturally without sounding overly formal.

Sprechen 5/5

Rare in casual speech; usually reserved for presentations.

Hören 4/5

Must distinguish from the homonym 'paradox'.

Was du als Nächstes lernen solltest

Voraussetzungen

말하다 강조하다 중요성 필요성 주장하다

Als Nächstes lernen

설파하다 천명하다 부각하다 언명하다 피력하다

Fortgeschritten

수사학 (Rhetoric) 웅변 (Eloquence) 변증법 (Dialectics)

Wichtige Grammatik

Indirect Quotation (~고 하다)

그는 평화가 중요하다고 역설했다.

Noun Modifying Form (~는/은)

중요성을 역설하는 사람.

Adverbial Form (~히/게)

강력히 역설하다.

Honorifics (~시)

선생님께서 역설하셨다.

Reason Connective (~아서/어서)

중요하기 때문에 역설했다.

Beispiele nach Niveau

1

선생님이 중요하다고 역설해요.

The teacher emphasizes that it's important.

Simple present tense with a formal-polite ending.

2

그는 '공부해!'라고 역설했다.

He emphasized, 'Study!'

Direct quote followed by the verb.

3

뉴스를 보면 역설하다가 나와요.

If you watch the news, 'emphasize' appears.

Conditional '면' used with the verb.

4

중요성을 역설하는 사람입니다.

He is a person who emphasizes the importance.

Noun-modifying form (~는).

5

그녀는 평화를 역설합니다.

She emphasizes peace.

Object particle '를' used correctly.

6

우리는 사랑을 역설해야 해요.

We must emphasize love.

Must do (~해야 하다) structure.

7

의사 선생님이 건강을 역설했어요.

The doctor emphasized health.

Past tense (~었어요).

8

크게 말하며 역설해요.

He emphasizes by speaking loudly.

Connective (~며) showing simultaneous action.

1

그는 일찍 일어나는 것이 좋다고 역설했다.

He emphasized that waking up early is good.

Indirect quote (~고).

2

대통령은 경제를 살리자고 역설했습니다.

The president emphasized that we should revive the economy.

Suggestive indirect quote (~자고).

3

환경 보호의 필요성을 역설하는 책입니다.

It is a book that emphasizes the necessity of environmental protection.

Present participle modifying '책'.

4

그는 정직이 제일이라고 역설해 왔다.

He has been emphasizing that honesty is the best.

Present perfect-like duration (~어 왔다).

5

강연자는 꿈의 중요성을 역설했다.

The lecturer emphasized the importance of dreams.

Subject marker '는' for the speaker.

6

부모님은 항상 예절을 역설하신다.

Parents always emphasize manners.

Honorific marker (~시).

7

그는 변화가 필요하다고 강력히 역설했다.

He strongly emphasized that change is necessary.

Adverb '강력히' (strongly) used.

8

기자는 이 문제의 심각성을 역설했다.

The reporter emphasized the seriousness of this problem.

Noun '심각성' (seriousness) as object.

1

전문가는 새로운 에너지원의 개발을 역설했다.

The expert emphasized the development of new energy sources.

Formal past tense.

2

그는 이번 프로젝트의 성공 가능성을 역설하며 팀원들을 격려했다.

Emphasizing the success possibility of this project, he encouraged the team.

Connective (~하며) for simultaneous actions.

3

정부는 저출산 문제의 해결책을 역설하고 있습니다.

The government is emphasizing solutions to the low birth rate problem.

Present progressive (~고 있다).

4

학자들은 역사 교육의 강화를 거듭 역설했다.

Scholars repeatedly emphasized the strengthening of history education.

Adverb '거듭' (repeatedly) for emphasis.

5

그는 인권 보호가 국가의 의무임을 역설했다.

He emphasized that protecting human rights is the state's duty.

Noun clause (~임) as object.

6

감독은 기본기의 중요성을 선수들에게 역설했다.

The coach emphasized the importance of basic skills to the players.

Recipient particle (~에게).

7

사회 운동가는 평등한 기회를 역설하며 시위를 벌였다.

The social activist emphasized equal opportunities and held a protest.

Action sequence with (~하며).

8

그는 실패를 두려워하지 말라고 역설했다.

He emphasized not to fear failure.

Imperative indirect quote (~말라고).

1

보고서는 정보 보안의 취약성을 역설하며 대책 마련을 촉구했다.

The report emphasized the vulnerability of information security and urged measures.

Formal written style.

2

그는 민주주의의 가치를 역설한 공로로 상을 받았다.

He received an award for his contribution to emphasizing the value of democracy.

Reason/Cause (~ㄴ 공로로).

3

교수님은 논문에서 이 이론의 한계점을 역설하셨다.

The professor emphasized the limitations of this theory in the paper.

Honorific past tense.

4

그는 지역 경제 활성화를 위해 전통 시장을 살려야 한다고 역설했다.

He emphasized that traditional markets must be revived to revitalize the local economy.

Purpose (~위해) and Necessity (~해야 한다).

5

연설가는 청중들에게 공동체의 결속력을 역설했다.

The speaker emphasized the solidarity of the community to the audience.

Abstract noun '결속력' (solidarity) as object.

6

그는 인공지능 윤리 가이드라인의 수립을 강력히 역설했다.

He strongly emphasized the establishment of AI ethics guidelines.

Complex noun phrase as object.

7

작가는 소설을 통해 인간 존엄성의 회복을 역설하고자 했다.

The author intended to emphasize the restoration of human dignity through the novel.

Intent (~하고자 하다).

8

비판론자들은 무분별한 개발의 위험성을 역설해 왔다.

Critics have been emphasizing the dangers of indiscreet development.

Present perfect-like duration (~어 왔다).

1

그는 근대 철학의 인식론적 전환이 지닌 의의를 역설했다.

He emphasized the significance of the epistemological shift in modern philosophy.

Advanced academic terminology.

2

정치 철학자는 자유와 평등의 변증법적 조화를 역설했다.

The political philosopher emphasized the dialectical harmony of freedom and equality.

Abstract academic concepts.

3

그는 거듭된 실패에도 불구하고 도전 정신의 숭고함을 역설했다.

Despite repeated failures, he emphasized the sublimity of the challenging spirit.

Concessive (~에도 불구하고).

4

논평가는 이번 사태가 우리 사회에 던지는 경고를 역설했다.

The commentator emphasized the warning this situation sends to our society.

Relative clause as object.

5

그는 예술이 지닌 치유의 힘을 역설하며 문화 예술 지원 확대를 주장했다.

Emphasizing the healing power of art, he argued for the expansion of support for culture and arts.

Linking two related actions/claims.

6

경제학자는 시장의 보이지 않는 손이 지닌 한계를 역설했다.

The economist emphasized the limitations of the market's 'invisible hand'.

Metaphorical object.

7

그는 법치주의의 확립이 민주 공화국의 근간임을 역설했다.

He emphasized that the establishment of the rule of law is the foundation of a democratic republic.

Copula noun clause (~임).

8

환경 운동가는 기후 위기가 인류 생존에 직결된 문제임을 역설했다.

The environmental activist emphasized that the climate crisis is a matter directly linked to human survival.

Directly linked (~직결된) modifier.

1

그는 포스트모더니즘 담론이 지닌 해체적 속성의 위험성을 역설했다.

He emphasized the danger of the deconstructive nature of postmodernist discourse.

High-level theoretical vocabulary.

2

사회학자는 자본주의 체제 하에서 인간 소외의 필연성을 역설했다.

The sociologist emphasized the inevitability of human alienation under the capitalist system.

Sociological terminology.

3

그는 고전 문학이 현대인에게 제공하는 존재론적 위안을 역설했다.

He emphasized the ontological comfort that classical literature provides to modern people.

Philosophical terminology.

4

그는 다원주의 사회에서 관용의 가치가 지닌 절대적 필요성을 역설했다.

He emphasized the absolute necessity of the value of tolerance in a pluralistic society.

Abstract social concepts.

5

비평가는 작가의 초기 작품에 투영된 실존적 고뇌를 역설했다.

The critic emphasized the existential anguish projected in the author's early works.

Literary criticism style.

6

그는 과학 기술의 진보가 윤리적 성찰을 앞서가는 현상의 위험을 역설했다.

He emphasized the danger of the phenomenon where scientific progress outpaces ethical reflection.

Complex clausal object.

7

역사가는 제국주의의 유산이 현대 국제 관계에 미치는 영향을 역설했다.

The historian emphasized the influence of the legacy of imperialism on modern international relations.

Historical analysis register.

8

그는 언어의 자의성이 소통의 불완전함을 초래한다는 점을 역설했다.

He emphasized the point that the arbitrariness of language results in the incompleteness of communication.

Linguistic terminology (~한다는 점).

Synonyme

강조하다 주장하다 힘주어 말하다

Gegenteile

경시하다 과소평가하다

Häufige Kollokationen

중요성을 역설하다
필요성을 역설하다
강력히 역설하다
거듭 역설하다
당위성을 역설하다
심각성을 역설하다
가치를 역설하다
시급성을 역설하다
정당성을 역설하다
의미를 역설하다

Häufige Phrasen

목소리를 높여 역설하다

— To emphasize by raising one's voice.

그는 목소리를 높여 정의를 역설했다.

힘주어 역설하다

— To emphasize with great force.

그녀는 협력의 필요성을 힘주어 역설했다.

누차 역설하다

— To emphasize several times/frequently.

그는 누차 건강 관리를 역설해 왔다.

입이 닳도록 역설하다

— To emphasize so much that one's mouth wears out (idiomatic for 'repeatedly').

어머니는 정직을 입이 닳도록 역설하셨다.

강연에서 역설하다

— To emphasize during a lecture/speech.

그는 강연에서 독서의 유익함을 역설했다.

사설에서 역설하다

— To emphasize in an editorial.

신문 사설에서 정부의 책임을 역설했다.

공개적으로 역설하다

— To emphasize publicly.

그는 공개적으로 인권을 역설했다.

열정적으로 역설하다

— To emphasize passionately.

그는 열정적으로 꿈을 역설했다.

논문에서 역설하다

— To emphasize in an academic paper.

저자는 논문에서 이 가설을 역설했다.

회의에서 역설하다

— To emphasize during a meeting.

부장은 목표 달성을 회의에서 역설했다.

Wird oft verwechselt mit

역설하다 vs 역설 (逆說)

Homonym meaning 'paradox'. Usually used with '적이다' (역설적이다).

역설하다 vs 강조하다

More general word for emphasis. Lacks the 'forceful speech' nuance.

역설하다 vs 연설하다

Means 'to give a speech'. You '역설' a point *during* an '연설'.

Redewendungen & Ausdrücke

"침을 튀기며 역설하다"

— To emphasize so passionately that spit flies (very informal/descriptive).

그는 자기 주장을 침을 튀기며 역설했다.

Informal/Descriptive
"피를 토하듯 역설하다"

— To emphasize as if spitting blood (extremely passionate/desperate).

독립운동가는 조국의 독립을 피를 토하듯 역설했다.

Literary/Dramatic
"뼈저리게 역설하다"

— To emphasize with painful sincerity.

그는 가난의 고통을 뼈저리게 역설했다.

Emotive
"가슴에 와닿게 역설하다"

— To emphasize in a way that touches the heart.

그는 가족의 사랑을 가슴에 와닿게 역설했다.

Soft/Formal
"귀에 못이 박히도록 역설하다"

— To emphasize so much that a callous forms in the ear (repeatedly).

선생님은 인사를 귀에 못이 박히도록 역설하셨다.

Common Idiom
"열변을 토하며 역설하다"

— To emphasize while giving a heated/passionate speech.

그는 정치 개혁을 위해 열변을 토하며 역설했다.

Formal/Journalistic
"강조하고 또 강조하다"

— To emphasize over and over (similar to 역설하다).

그는 안전 수칙을 강조하고 또 강조했다.

Neutral
"목이 터져라 역설하다"

— To emphasize until one's throat bursts.

응원단장은 단합을 목이 터져라 역설했다.

Informal/High Energy
"일장연설을 늘어놓으며 역설하다"

— To emphasize while giving a long, tedious speech.

그는 한 시간 동안 일장연설을 늘어놓으며 도덕을 역설했다.

Slightly Negative
"일침을 가하며 역설하다"

— To emphasize while giving a sharp warning/sting.

그는 사회의 부조리에 일침을 가하며 정의를 역설했다.

Critical/Formal

Leicht verwechselbar

역설하다 vs 강조하다

Both mean 'emphasize'.

강조하다 is general; 역설하다 is formal and implies rhetorical force.

글씨를 강조하다 (O), 글씨를 역설하다 (X)

역설하다 vs 주장하다

Both involve stating an opinion.

주장하다 is the act of claiming; 역설하다 is the act of stressing the point's importance.

그는 무죄를 주장했다. / 그는 정직의 중요성을 역설했다.

역설하다 vs 설파하다

Both are formal 'speaking' verbs.

설파하다 is more about explaining a whole system or doctrine; 역설하다 is about stressing a specific point.

부처님은 자비를 설파하셨다. / 장관은 예산 증액을 역설했다.

역설하다 vs 부각하다

Both bring attention to something.

부각하다 is often used in media to 'highlight' an issue; 역설하다 is about a person's active speech.

기사는 빈부격차를 부각했다.

역설하다 vs 천명하다

Both are very formal.

천명하다 is 'to declare' a stance; 역설하다 is 'to emphasize' a necessity/importance.

그는 사퇴 의사를 천명했다.

Satzmuster

B1

[Noun]의 중요성을 역설하다

그는 건강의 중요성을 역설했다.

B2

[Action]해야 한다고 역설하다

그는 우리가 협력해야 한다고 역설했다.

B2

[Noun]의 필요성을 강력히 역설하다

그는 개혁의 필요성을 강력히 역설했다.

C1

[Noun]이/가 [Noun]임을 역설하다

그는 교육이 국가의 미래임을 역설했다.

C1

[Noun]을/를 통해 [Noun]을/를 역설하다

그는 강연을 통해 평화를 역설했다.

C2

[Noun]에 내재된 [Noun]을/를 역설하다

그는 작품에 내재된 슬픔을 역설했다.

C2

[Noun]의 당위성을 논리적으로 역설하다

그는 변화의 당위성을 논리적으로 역설했다.

C2

[Noun]에 대한 경각심을 역설하다

그는 환경 오염에 대한 경각심을 역설했다.

Wortfamilie

Substantive

역설 (力說) The act of emphasizing strongly.
역설 (逆說) Paradox (Homonym).

Verben

역설하다 To emphasize strongly.

Adjektive

역설적이다 Paradoxical (derived from the homonym).

Verwandt

강조 (Emphasis)
연설 (Speech)
주장 (Assertion)
설득 (Persuasion)
웅변 (Eloquence)

So verwendest du es

frequency

Common in written media and formal oratory; rare in spoken daily conversation.

Häufige Fehler
  • 이 상황은 역설한다. 이 상황은 역설적이다.

    You cannot use the verb '역설하다' to mean 'is a paradox.' That is the adjective '역설적이다'.

  • 나는 피자를 먹고 싶다고 역설했다. 나는 피자를 먹고 싶다고 강조했다.

    Using '역설하다' for trivial daily desires sounds weird and overly dramatic.

  • 그는 중요성을 역설되었다. 그는 중요성을 역설했다.

    '역설하다' is an active verb. Passive forms are rarely used this way.

  • 그는 펜을 역설했다. 그는 펜의 중요성을 역설했다.

    You emphasize a concept (importance of the pen), not the physical object itself.

  • 그는 역설했다. 그는 필요성을 역설했다.

    The verb needs an object. Don't leave the listener wondering *what* was emphasized.

Tipps

Hanja Power

Remember the '力' (power) character. It will help you distinguish this from other 'seol' words like 'hae-seol' (explanation).

Object Choice

Always look for words like '중요성' (importance) or '필요성' (necessity) as objects for this verb.

Register Awareness

Use this word in your TOPIK essays to describe a speaker's intent. It's a high-scoring word.

Tone

When you say '역설하다', imagine you are a news anchor. It helps with the pronunciation and feel.

News Keywords

In news clips, '역설했다' is a signal that the most important part of the interview is coming up.

Variety

Instead of using '강조하다' repeatedly in an essay, switch to '역설하다' for variety and formality.

Leadership

Understand that '역설' is a trait of strong leadership in Korean discourse.

Visualizing

Visualize a 'Power Speaker' (力說) to remember the meaning.

Homonym Alert

If the sentence is about logic or 'A but B', it's probably 'paradox' (逆說), not 'emphasis' (力說).

Common Ending

It often ends with '~고 역설했다' in indirect reports.

Einprägen

Eselsbrücke

Think of 'Yeok' (Power/Station) and 'Seol' (Snow/Speech). Imagine a powerful speaker at a train STATION (Yeok) shouting about the beauty of SNOW (Seol).

Visuelle Assoziation

Visualize a politician banging their fist on a podium while speaking. The fist represents '力' (Force).

Word Web

Speech (연설) Force (힘/力) Importance (중요성) Necessity (필요성) Persuasion (설득) Strong (강력한) Emphasize (강조) Assert (주장)

Herausforderung

Try to use '역설하다' in a sentence about your favorite hobby, explaining why it's 'absolutely necessary' for happiness.

Wortherkunft

Composed of two Hanja characters: 力 (력/역 - power, force) and 說 (설 - speak, theory, explanation).

Ursprüngliche Bedeutung: To speak with all of one's power or force.

Sino-Korean (Hanja-derived).

Kultureller Kontext

Be careful not to use it for trivial matters (e.g., emphasizing that a shirt is red), as it can sound mock-heroic or sarcastic.

In English, we might say 'to pound the table' or 'to hammer home a point.' '역설하다' covers this rhetorical intensity.

Martin Luther King Jr.'s 'I Have a Dream' speech is often described in Korean as '평등을 역설한 연설' (A speech that emphasized equality). Steve Jobs' commencement speech at Stanford '역설했다' the importance of following one's heart. The 'Gwangju Uprising' activists '역설했다' the need for democracy.

Im Alltag üben

Kontexte aus dem Alltag

Political Speeches

  • 정책의 정당성을 역설하다
  • 개혁의 의지를 역설하다
  • 협치를 역설하다
  • 민생 안정을 역설하다

Academic Lectures

  • 이론의 타당성을 역설하다
  • 연구의 의의를 역설하다
  • 비판적 사고를 역설하다
  • 기초 학문의 중요성을 역설하다

Business Meetings

  • 혁신의 필요성을 역설하다
  • 고객 만족을 역설하다
  • 시장 점유율 확대를 역설하다
  • 효율성을 역설하다

Environmental Activism

  • 지속 가능성을 역설하다
  • 기후 위기를 역설하다
  • 생태계 보존을 역설하다
  • 탄소 중립을 역설하다

Education

  • 전인 교육을 역설하다
  • 창의성을 역설하다
  • 인성 교육을 역설하다
  • 평생 학습을 역설하다

Gesprächseinstiege

"최근 뉴스에서 어떤 정치인이 무엇을 역설하는 것을 보셨나요?"

"당신이 인생에서 가장 중요하다고 역설하고 싶은 가치는 무엇입니까?"

"회사나 학교에서 누군가 변화의 필요성을 역설하는 것을 들은 적이 있나요?"

"환경 보호를 위해 우리가 가장 먼저 해야 할 일은 무엇이라고 역설하시겠습니까?"

"성공을 위해 가장 필요한 덕목이 무엇이라고 역설하고 싶으신가요?"

Tagebuch-Impulse

오늘 내가 누군가에게 강력히 역설했던 생각이나 의견이 있다면 적어보세요.

내가 만약 대통령이라면 국민들에게 어떤 가치를 역설하고 싶은지 써보세요.

최근 읽은 책이나 기사 중에서 저자가 역설하고 있는 핵심 내용이 무엇인지 요약해 보세요.

부모님이 나에게 항상 역설하셨던 말씀은 무엇이며, 지금은 어떻게 생각하는지 써보세요.

미래 세대에게 가장 역설하고 싶은 교훈은 무엇입니까?

Häufig gestellte Fragen

10 Fragen

It's generally too formal. If you use it while deciding what to eat, it will sound like a joke or a very dramatic statement. Stick to '강조하다' or '말하다' for casual talk.

No. When it's used as '역설하다' (verb), it almost always means 'to emphasize'. When it's used as '역설적' (adjective), it means 'paradoxical'.

It is 力 (power) and 說 (speak). It literally means speaking with power.

Yes, it frequently appears in TOPIK II (Intermediate/Advanced) listening and reading sections, usually in news reports or formal lectures.

No, you usually emphasize an abstract concept like importance, necessity, or an idea. You wouldn't '역설' a person.

They are very similar, but '역설하다' itself already contains the meaning of 'strongly,' making it more concise and rhetorically elegant in formal writing.

Yes, '역설했다' is very common when reporting what someone said in a past speech.

Yes, '역설' (力說) is the noun form, meaning 'strong emphasis/assertion.' E.g., '그의 역설은 대단했다' (His emphasis was great).

No, it is a neutral verb describing a way of speaking, though the point being emphasized could be negative (like the 'danger' of something).

Yes, it is often used to describe what an author is doing in a book or an editorial.

Teste dich selbst 200 Fragen

writing

Write a sentence using '역설하다' about the importance of health.

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate: 'The teacher emphasized the necessity of study.'

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writing

Use '강력히' and '역설하다' in a sentence about environmental protection.

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writing

Write a sentence reporting what a politician said using '~고 역설했다'.

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writing

Write a sentence using '역설하며' (emphasizing while...).

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writing

Translate: 'He emphasized that now is the time for change.'

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writing

Use '역설하다' to describe a doctor's advice on exercise.

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writing

Write a formal sentence about the 'urgency' (시급성) of a problem.

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writing

Translate: 'The author emphasized human dignity in the novel.'

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writing

Write a sentence about emphasizing 'solidarity' (결속력) in a team.

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writing

Translate: 'repeatedly emphasized' using '거듭'.

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writing

Write a sentence about the importance of 'honesty' (정직).

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writing

Use '역설하다' in a sentence about 'future generations' (미래 세대).

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writing

Translate: 'The president emphasized peace at the summit.'

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writing

Write a sentence using the honorific form of '역설하다'.

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writing

Use '역설하다' to describe a coach's speech.

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writing

Translate: 'She emphasized the value of freedom.'

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writing

Write a sentence about the 'danger' (위험성) of climate change.

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writing

Use '역설하다' in a sentence about 'innovation' (혁신).

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writing

Translate: 'emphasizing the need for reform'.

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

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speaking

Say 'I emphasized the importance of education' in formal Korean.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Describe a politician emphasizing peace.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Urge your team to focus on safety using '역설하다'.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Explain the necessity of change in a meeting.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Report that 'The expert emphasized the danger'.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Tell your students to study hard using '역설하다'.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say 'He strongly emphasized his opinion'.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Describe an activist talking about human rights.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Ask 'What did the speaker emphasize?'

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say 'The CEO emphasized the company's future'.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Explain '역설하다' to a friend in Korean.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Report that 'The professor emphasized the theory'.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say 'We must emphasize the value of art'.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Describe a doctor emphasizing health.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say 'The reporter emphasized the urgency'.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Tell someone 'I already emphasized that point'.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say 'He emphasized it over and over'.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Describe a coach emphasizing teamwork.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say 'I want to emphasize the beauty of nature'.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Ask 'Why are you emphasizing that so much?'

Read this aloud:

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listening

Listen and identify the object: '그는 평화의 중요성을 역설했다.'

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

Listen and identify the adverb: '그는 강력히 역설했다.'

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

Listen and identify the speaker: '대통령은 경제를 역설했다.'

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

Is the speaker happy or serious? '그는 심각성을 역설했다.'

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

Listen: '변화가 필요하다고 역설했다.' What is needed?

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

Listen: '그는 거듭 역설했다.' Did he say it once?

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

Listen: '그는 인권을 역설하며 울었다.' What did he do while speaking?

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

Listen: '선생님은 예절을 역설하셨다.' What was the topic?

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

Listen: '지금이 기회라고 역설했다.' What is 'now'?

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

Listen: '그는 혁신을 역설했다.' What is the word for innovation?

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

Listen: '그는 나눔의 가치를 역설했다.' What is the value?

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

Listen: '그는 결속을 역설했다.' What does '결속' mean?

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

Listen: '그는 진실을 역설했다.' What is '진실'?

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

Listen: '그는 도전을 역설했다.' What is '도전'?

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

Listen: '그는 정직을 역설했다.' What is '정직'?

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

/ 200 correct

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