부각 in 30 Sekunden
- Bugak means highlighting or making something stand out prominently in a given context.
- It is frequently used in formal Korean, such as news reports and business meetings.
- The word often pairs with '되다' (to be highlighted) or '시키다' (to highlight).
- It originates from an artistic term for relief carving where figures pop out from a surface.
The Korean word 부각 (Bugak) is a sophisticated noun that translates to 'highlighting,' 'bringing to the fore,' or 'making something prominent.' In its most literal, historical sense, it refers to the technique in sculpture or relief where a figure is carved to stand out from a flat background. However, in modern daily Korean, it is almost exclusively used metaphorically to describe how an idea, a problem, a personality trait, or a social issue becomes the center of attention or gains significant public interest. When you use 부각, you are implying that something that might have been hidden, ignored, or just one of many details is now being thrust into the spotlight, making it impossible to overlook.
- Literal Origin
- Derived from Hanja, where 'Bu' (浮) means to float or surface, and 'Gak' (刻) means to carve. It literally means 'to carve so it surfaces.'
- Media Usage
- Frequently used in news headlines to indicate that a specific political scandal or social trend is becoming a major public concern.
- Marketing Context
- Used when discussing how to 'highlight' the unique selling points of a product to distinguish it from competitors.
Imagine a dark stage where many actors are standing. Suddenly, a bright spotlight shines on just one actor. That act of shining the light is 부각. It doesn't just mean that the actor is there; it means their presence is being intentionally emphasized so that the audience focuses on them. In social discourse, if a news agency starts reporting heavily on environmental issues, we say that the environmental problem is being 'bugak-doeda' (becoming highlighted). It is a word that carries a sense of intentionality and visual clarity, making it a favorite in formal writing, journalism, and academic discussions.
최근 환경 문제가 사회적 이슈로 부각되고 있습니다.
그의 용감한 행동이 언론을 통해 부각되었다.
광고는 제품의 장점을 최대한 부각시켜야 한다.
이 소설은 인간의 고독을 주제로 부각하고 있다.
새로운 증거가 나타나면서 그의 무죄가 부각되었다.
Furthermore, 부각 is often used in the context of personal branding or political campaigns. A candidate might try to 부각시키다 (highlight) their experience in economics to win over voters. In this sense, it's about strategic visibility. It's not just about being seen; it's about being seen for a specific reason or trait that distinguishes you from others. The word captures the essence of contrast—something becomes 'bu-gak' because it stands in contrast to the background or the 'ordinary' state of things.
Using 부각 (Bugak) correctly involves understanding its grammatical flexibility as a noun that frequently transforms into verbs. The two most common forms are 부각되다 (passive: to be highlighted/to stand out) and 부각시키다 (active: to highlight/to make something stand out). Mastery of these two forms allows you to describe both natural occurrences where issues rise to the surface and intentional acts where someone chooses to emphasize a specific point. For B1 learners, the transition from simple words like '중요하다' (to be important) to '부각되다' marks a significant step into more professional and expressive Korean.
- Passive Form: ~이/가 부각되다
- Used when a subject naturally becomes prominent or is brought to light by circumstances. Example: 'The problem was highlighted' (문제가 부각되었다).
- Active Form: ~을/를 부각시키다
- Used when an agent intentionally makes something stand out. Example: 'The director highlighted the colors' (감독은 색채를 부각시켰다).
- Noun Form: 부각
- Used in phrases like '부각을 나타내다' (to show prominence) or as a standalone subject in headlines.
In formal writing, such as essays or reports, 부각 is an excellent tool for transitions. Instead of saying 'This is a big problem,' you can say 'This problem is being highlighted as a major issue.' This shifts the focus from a simple statement of fact to a description of the social or situational context surrounding the fact. It adds a layer of 'perception' to your sentence—how the world is viewing the topic at hand.
그 영화는 주인공의 심리 변화를 섬세하게 부각하고 있다.
디자인의 단순함이 오히려 세련미를 부각시킨다.
4차 산업혁명의 중요성이 다시금 부각되고 있다.
When describing a person's rise to fame, you might say they '부각을 나타내고 있다' (are showing prominence/standing out). This is common in sports commentary or when discussing rising stars in any field. It suggests that among a group of peers, this specific individual is starting to shine more brightly, much like a figure emerging from a marble slab in a relief sculpture. This visual metaphor is key to understanding the nuance of the word.
You are most likely to encounter 부각 (Bugak) in formal and semi-formal environments. It is a staple of Korean news broadcasts (뉴스), newspapers (신문), and documentaries (다큐멘터리). If you watch a Korean news segment about a new government policy, the anchor might say that the policy 'highlights' the government's commitment to social welfare. In business meetings, it’s used to discuss branding strategies—how to make a product 'stand out' in a crowded market. It’s also very common in academic lectures, especially in the humanities and social sciences, where professors discuss how certain historical events or philosophical ideas 'came to the fore' in specific eras.
- In the News
- Listen for it during economic reports or political analysis. 'The issue of inflation is being highlighted' (인플레이션 문제가 부각되고 있다).
- In Corporate Culture
- During presentations: 'We need to highlight our competitive advantage' (우리의 경쟁 우위를 부각시켜야 합니다).
- In Art and Literature
- Reviews of films or books: 'The author highlights the contrast between wealth and poverty' (작가는 빈부 격차를 부각시킨다).
While you might not hear it in a casual conversation about what to eat for lunch, you will hear it if that conversation turns into a debate about the health benefits of certain ingredients. For example, 'The high protein content of this dish is its highlighted feature.' It’s a word that elevates the level of the conversation, making the speaker sound more articulate and precise. In K-Dramas, you might hear it in scenes involving lawyers, corporate executives, or journalists discussing how to frame a story to the public.
선거철이 되면 후보자들의 과거 행적이 다시 부각되곤 합니다.
이번 전시회는 전통미를 현대적으로 부각한 작품들이 많다.
In summary, 부각 is the word of the 'public eye.' It describes the movement of an object or idea from the background noise of life into the focused consciousness of a group. Whether it’s a social crisis, a product feature, or a character's personality trait, 부각 is the mechanism by which we say, 'Look at this specifically; it is important right now.'
One of the most frequent mistakes learners make with 부각 (Bugak) is confusing it with 강조 (Gangjo). While both involve making something important, 강조 is 'emphasis'—it’s about the strength of the message. 부각 is 'highlighting'—it’s about the visibility and contrast. You 강조 a point in a speech by speaking louder or repeating it. You 부각 a point by making it stand out against other points. Another common error is using it in overly casual contexts. Saying your 'hunger is being highlighted' sounds unintentionally dramatic or even comedic in Korean.
- Mistake 1: Confusing with '강조'
- Don't use '부각' when you just mean you want to stress a word. Use '부각' when you mean an issue or feature is becoming prominent in a context.
- Mistake 2: Incorrect Particle Usage
- Learners often say '문제를 부각되다' (Wrong). It must be '문제가 부각되다' (The problem becomes highlighted) or '문제를 부각시키다' (To highlight the problem).
- Mistake 3: Over-relying on it for simple 'showing'
- If you just want to say 'show,' use '보여주다'. Use '부각' only when there is a sense of making something stand out specifically.
Another nuance to watch out for is the 'tone' of the word. 부각 is neutral but carries a weight of significance. If you use it for trivial things, it can sound like you are writing a satirical news report. For example, 'The fact that I forgot my umbrella is being highlighted' (내가 우산을 잊은 사실이 부각되고 있다) is grammatically correct but pragmatically strange unless you are joking about how everyone is teasing you for it.
[Wrong] 선생님이 숙제의 중요성을 부각했다.
[Wrong] 이 그림은 빨간색을 부각되었다.
Lastly, be careful with the word 부각 (Bugak) and 부각 (Fried chips). In Korean cuisine, '부각' also refers to a type of traditional fried vegetable or seaweed chip (e.g., 김부각). While the context usually makes it very clear which one you are talking about, don't be surprised if you search for '부각' and find recipes for crispy seaweed! The noun meaning 'highlighting' is far more common in formal text, while the snack is common in food contexts.
To truly master 부각 (Bugak), you should understand how it sits among its synonyms. Depending on the context, you might choose a different word to express 'standing out' or 'emphasizing.' Understanding these subtle differences will help you sound more like a native speaker and allow you to choose the exact 'flavor' of importance you wish to convey.
- 강조 (Gangjo) vs. 부각 (Bugak)
- '강조' is about the intensity of the message (stressing/emphasizing). '부각' is about the visibility and prominence (highlighting/surfacing). You emphasize a rule; you highlight a problem.
- 노출 (Nochul) vs. 부각 (Bugak)
- '노출' means exposure or being revealed. It is often used for something that was hidden and is now seen. '부각' is more about being made prominent among other things that are already visible.
- 두드러지다 (Dudeureojida) vs. 부각되다 (Bugak-doeda)
- '두드러지다' is a pure Korean verb (native) meaning to be remarkable or noticeable. It is slightly less formal than '부각되다' and is often used for physical traits (e.g., a prominent nose).
- 명시 (Myeongsi) vs. 부각 (Bugak)
- '명시' means to state clearly or specify. It is used in contracts or instructions. '부각' is more about the general impression of something standing out.
When you want to describe something that is naturally standing out without any intentional action from an agent, 두드러지다 or 돋보이다 (to look better/stand out) are great alternatives. However, if you are analyzing a situation, a text, or a political landscape, 부각 remains the most professional and precise choice. It carries an analytical tone that suggests you are looking at the 'big picture' and noticing what has risen to the top.
그녀의 재능은 여러 명의 학생들 사이에서 단연 돋보였다.
정부는 이번 대책에서 일자리 창출을 가장 강조했다.
In academic writing, you might also see 표출 (Pyo-chul), which means 'expression' or 'manifestation.' While 부각 focuses on the result of standing out, 표출 focuses on the act of the inner feeling or idea coming out. Choosing the right word among these synonyms will significantly increase your Korean proficiency level from intermediate to advanced.
How Formal Is It?
Wusstest du?
This word was originally a technical term in art. If you look at ancient Korean temple walls, the figures that are carved to 'pop out' from the wall are examples of 'Bugak.' Over time, Koreans began using this visual idea for abstract concepts like ideas and social problems.
Aussprachehilfe
- Pronouncing 'bu' as 'byu'. It should be a pure 'oo' sound.
- Releasing the final 'k' sound too strongly. In Korean, final consonants are often unreleased.
- Confusing it with 'Pugak' (a different sound). The initial sound is 'B' (ㅂ).
Schwierigkeitsgrad
Common in news and essays, so B1+ readers should know it.
Requires correct particle usage (이/가 vs 을/를) with 되다/시키다.
Useful for formal discussions or explaining one's opinion.
Frequently heard in news broadcasts and documentaries.
Was du als Nächstes lernen solltest
Voraussetzungen
Als Nächstes lernen
Fortgeschritten
Wichtige Grammatik
Causative Verbs (-시키다)
부각 + 시키다 = 부각시키다 (To make something stand out/To highlight).
Passive Verbs (-되다)
부각 + 되다 = 부각되다 (To be highlighted/To become prominent).
Noun Modifying Form (-는/ㄴ/은)
부각되는 문제 (The problem that is being highlighted).
Adverbial Form (-게)
장점이 부각되게 옷을 입었다. (Wore clothes so that the strengths stand out.)
Connective Ending (-면서)
뉴스가 보도되면서 문제가 부각되었다. (As the news was reported, the problem was highlighted.)
Beispiele nach Niveau
이 사진은 꽃을 부각해요.
This photo highlights the flower.
Simple present tense with '부각해요'.
중요한 내용을 부각하세요.
Please highlight the important content.
Imperative form '하세요'.
그의 이름이 부각되었어요.
His name was highlighted.
Past passive '되었어요'.
빨간색이 부각돼요.
The red color stands out.
Passive present '돼요'.
문제를 부각하고 싶어요.
I want to highlight the problem.
Wanting to do something '-고 싶어요'.
뉴스가 그 일을 부각해요.
The news highlights that matter.
Simple subject-object-verb.
장점이 부각되는 옷이에요.
It is clothes that highlight strengths.
Relative clause '-는'.
부각된 부분을 보세요.
Look at the highlighted part.
Noun modifying form '부각된'.
영화 감독은 음악을 부각시켰다.
The movie director highlighted the music.
Active causative '부각시켰다'.
이 제품은 성능이 부각됩니다.
The performance of this product is highlighted.
Formal passive '부각됩니다'.
그녀의 재능이 이번에 부각되었어요.
Her talent was highlighted this time.
Subject particle '이' used with passive.
우리는 환경 보호를 부각해야 해요.
We must highlight environmental protection.
Obligation form '-해야 해요'.
기사는 사건의 원인을 부각했다.
The article highlighted the cause of the incident.
Simple past tense.
디자인보다 기능이 부각되는 가구예요.
It's furniture where function is highlighted more than design.
Comparison using '보다'.
사진가가 배경을 부각시키지 않았어요.
The photographer did not highlight the background.
Negative form '-지 않았어요'.
그 문제는 다시 부각될 거예요.
That problem will be highlighted again.
Future tense '-을 거예요'.
최근 청년 실업 문제가 사회적으로 부각되고 있다.
Recently, the youth unemployment problem is being socially highlighted.
Progressive passive '-고 있다'.
이 광고는 제품의 친환경성을 부각시키고 있습니다.
This advertisement is highlighting the eco-friendliness of the product.
Active progressive '-고 있습니다'.
작가는 소설에서 인간의 욕심을 부각했다.
The author highlighted human greed in the novel.
Formal past tense.
그 사건을 통해 인권의 중요성이 부각되었다.
Through that incident, the importance of human rights was highlighted.
Passive past '되었다'.
자신의 장점을 부각하는 자기소개서를 쓰세요.
Write a self-introduction letter that highlights your strengths.
Present participle '-하는'.
이번 회의에서는 비용 절감이 주된 이슈로 부각되었다.
In this meeting, cost reduction was highlighted as the main issue.
Highlighted 'as' something '-로 부각되다'.
조명은 무대 위의 주인공을 부각시킨다.
The lighting highlights the protagonist on the stage.
Present tense '시킨다'.
그의 무죄를 부각할 수 있는 증거가 필요하다.
Evidence that can highlight his innocence is needed.
Ability form '-을 수 있는'.
이번 선거에서는 경제 회복이 핵심 쟁점으로 부각될 전망이다.
In this election, economic recovery is expected to emerge as a key issue.
Future expectation '-을 전망이다'.
언론이 특정 후보의 약점만을 부각시키는 것은 불공정하다.
It is unfair for the media to highlight only a specific candidate's weaknesses.
Gerund '-는 것' as subject.
전통적인 가치와 현대적인 감각을 동시에 부각한 건축물이다.
It is a building that highlights traditional values and modern sensibilities at the same time.
Simultaneous action '-와/과 ... 동시에'.
새로운 데이터가 발표되면서 기후 변화의 위험성이 더욱 부각되었다.
As new data was released, the risks of climate change became more highlighted.
Reason/Cause '-면서'.
그 화가는 명암의 대비를 통해 입체감을 부각시켰다.
The painter highlighted the sense of three-dimensionality through the contrast of light and shade.
Method/Means '-를 통해'.
기업들은 브랜드 이미지를 부각하기 위해 막대한 예산을 투입한다.
Companies invest huge budgets to highlight their brand image.
Purpose '-기 위해'.
한 가지 사실만 부각하다 보면 전체적인 맥락을 놓칠 수 있다.
If you keep highlighting only one fact, you might miss the overall context.
Continuous action/result '-다 보면'.
그의 논문은 기존 이론의 한계점을 부각하는 데 집중하고 있다.
His thesis focuses on highlighting the limitations of existing theories.
Focusing on doing '-하는 데 집중하다'.
역사학자들은 그 사건의 이면에 숨겨진 정치적 의도를 부각했다.
Historians highlighted the political intentions hidden behind the event.
Hidden intention '이면에 숨겨진'.
정부의 규제 완화 방침이 시장에서 긍정적으로 부각되고 있다.
The government's policy of deregulation is being highlighted positively in the market.
Adverbial use '긍정적으로'.
이 영화는 소외된 계층의 삶을 사실적으로 부각하여 큰 반향을 일으켰다.
This movie highlighted the lives of the marginalized realistically, causing a great sensation.
Connective ending '-하여' (and then/so).
그의 발언은 당내 갈등을 부각시키는 기폭제가 되었다.
His remarks became a catalyst for highlighting internal party conflicts.
Noun for catalyst '기폭제'.
기술적 진보가 인간 소외 현상을 부각시킨다는 우려의 목소리가 높다.
There are high voices of concern that technological progress highlights the phenomenon of human alienation.
Quoted concern '-는다는 우려'.
이번 사태는 우리 사회의 안전 불감증을 다시 한번 부각시켰다.
This situation once again highlighted our society's insensitivity to safety.
Safety insensitivity '안전 불감증'.
작가는 주인공의 내면적 갈등을 부각하기 위해 상징적 장치를 사용했다.
The author used symbolic devices to highlight the protagonist's internal conflict.
Symbolic device '상징적 장치'.
글로벌 금융 위기 이후 국가의 역할이 새롭게 부각되고 있는 실정이다.
After the global financial crisis, the role of the state is in a situation where it is being newly highlighted.
Current situation '있는 실정이다'.
포스트모더니즘 담론에서 주체의 해체가 부각되는 양상을 분석해야 한다.
In postmodern discourse, we must analyze the aspect where the deconstruction of the subject is highlighted.
Academic term '주체의 해체' (deconstruction of the subject).
그 정책은 표면적으로는 복지를 내세우지만, 실제로는 통제를 부각하고 있다.
The policy superficially puts forward welfare, but in reality, it highlights control.
Contrast '표면적으로는 ... 실제로는'.
언어적 표현의 모호함이 시적 긴장감을 부각시키는 중요한 요소로 작용한다.
The ambiguity of linguistic expression acts as an important factor in highlighting poetic tension.
Acting as a factor '요소로 작용하다'.
미디어의 프레임 구성은 대중이 특정 사안을 부각하여 인식하게 만든다.
The composition of media frames makes the public perceive specific issues by highlighting them.
Causative perception '인식하게 만든다'.
이 논문은 자본주의의 구조적 모순이 위기 상황에서 어떻게 부각되는지 고찰한다.
This paper examines how the structural contradictions of capitalism are highlighted in crisis situations.
Examination of how '-는지 고찰하다'.
예술적 전위성은 기존 관습과의 단절을 부각함으로써 그 가치를 획득한다.
Artistic avant-garde acquires its value by highlighting the break with existing conventions.
By doing '-함으로써'.
사회적 소수자의 목소리를 부각하는 것은 민주주의의 질적 향상을 위해 필수적이다.
Highlighting the voices of social minorities is essential for the qualitative improvement of democracy.
Qualitative improvement '질적 향상'.
신자유주의 체제하에서 개인의 책임론이 과도하게 부각되는 경향이 있다.
Under the neoliberal system, there is a tendency for the theory of individual responsibility to be excessively highlighted.
Tendency '경향이 있다'.
Häufige Kollokationen
Häufige Phrasen
— To make something stand out intentionally. Often used in management or marketing.
우리는 이번 신제품의 디자인을 부각을 시켜야 합니다.
— To become prominent or highlighted. Used when an issue naturally gains attention.
그의 과거가 다시 부각이 되면서 곤란해졌다.
— To become a topic of interest across the whole society.
저출산 문제가 사회적으로 부각되고 있다.
— To be highlighted once again after a period of being forgotten.
평화의 소중함이 다시금 부각되는 시기이다.
— To be highlighted very clearly and vividly.
그의 결백함이 선명하게 부각되었다.
— To emerge as the core or most important part of something.
신기술이 회사의 핵심 사업으로 부각되었다.
— The issue that has been brought to the fore.
최근 부각된 이슈들에 대해 토론해 봅시다.
— To plan or attempt to make something prominent.
그들은 차별화를 통해 브랜드 부각을 꾀하고 있다.
— To receive attention or be highlighted (less common than 부각되다).
그 작품은 평론가들에게 큰 부각을 받았다.
— To avoid being highlighted or noticed.
그는 언론의 부각을 피하기 위해 조용히 움직였다.
Wird oft verwechselt mit
강조 is emphasis/stress; 부각 is highlighting/prominence. Use 강조 for words, 부각 for issues/features.
노출 is exposure; 부각 is standing out. Use 노출 when something hidden is revealed.
부상 is emerging/rising; 부각 is highlighting. Use 부상 for a rising star, 부각 for their highlighted talent.
Redewendungen & Ausdrücke
— To stand out significantly among many people or things.
그는 과학 분야에서 두각을 나타내기 시작했다. (Note: 두각 is more common in this specific idiom, but 부각 is sometimes used synonymously in formal speech).
Formal— To surface like something coming up from underwater; to become a public issue.
오랫동안 숨겨왔던 비리가 수면 위로 부각되었다.
Journalistic— To be highlighted while receiving the spotlight (metaphorical).
그의 공로가 뒤늦게 조명을 받으며 부각되었다.
Formal— A very clear and distinct highlighting of an issue.
이 보고서는 문제의 원인을 선명한 부각을 통해 보여준다.
Academic— Highlighting something from multiple angles to give a 3D-like, deep understanding.
다큐멘터리는 사건을 입체적 부각으로 다루고 있다.
Artistic/Media— The very center of what is being highlighted.
그는 논란의 부각의 중심에 서 있다.
Journalistic— To step away from the spotlight (rare).
그는 부각을 뒤로하고 은퇴를 선언했다.
Literary— A very strong and intense highlighting.
포스터의 강렬한 부각이 눈길을 끈다.
Marketing— A wave of sudden interest or highlighting (metaphorical).
새로운 트렌드가 부각의 파도를 타고 번지고 있다.
Journalistic— To lose prominence or no longer be highlighted.
그 이슈는 시간이 지나며 부각을 잃었다.
FormalLeicht verwechselbar
It's a popular Korean snack (fried seaweed chips).
One is a noun for prominence (Hanja-based), the other is a delicious snack. Context is key.
뉴스를 보면서 김부각을 먹었다. (I ate seaweed chips while watching the news.)
Both mean standing out.
두각 is almost always used in the idiom '두각을 나타내다' (to show prominence/excel). 부각 is more versatile.
그는 수학에서 두각을 나타냈다.
Both involve 'making an impression'.
각인 means to engrave/stamp into memory. 부각 is about visual or situational prominence.
그의 말이 내 가슴에 각인되었다.
Similar sound and both relate to 'carving' (각).
조각 means a piece or a sculpture. 부각 is the act of highlighting.
사과 한 조각을 먹었다.
Similar sound.
시각 means sight, vision, or a point of view. 부각 is highlighting.
새로운 시각에서 문제를 보자.
Satzmuster
A이/가 부각되다
그의 이름이 부각되었다.
A을/를 부각시키다
우리는 장점을 부각시켜야 해요.
A이/가 B(으)로 부각되다
환경이 큰 이슈로 부각되었다.
A을/를 부각하는 데 집중하다
광고는 성능을 부각하는 데 집중했다.
새롭게 부각되고 있는 A
새롭게 부각되고 있는 사회 문제들.
A이/가 부각되는 양상을 보이다
갈등이 부각되는 양상을 보이고 있다.
A을/를 입체적으로 부각하다
역사적 사실을 입체적으로 부각했다.
A의 부각이 시사하는 바가 크다
이 문제의 부각이 시사하는 바가 크다.
Wortfamilie
Substantive
Verben
Verwandt
So verwendest du es
High in formal contexts, medium in daily speech.
-
이슈를 부각되다
→
이슈가 부각되다
The verb '되다' is passive and takes the subject particle '이/가', not the object particle '을/를'.
-
Using '부각' for simple highlighting of text with a pen.
→
형광펜으로 칠하다
'부각' is more metaphorical. For physical highlighting with a marker, use '칠하다' or '표시하다'.
-
Confusing '부각' with '조각' (piece).
→
부각 (highlighting)
Though they sound similar, '조각' means a piece or fragment. Don't say '이슈 조각' when you mean 'highlighted issue'.
-
숙제의 중요성을 부각했다.
→
숙제의 중요성을 강조했다.
While not strictly wrong, '강조' (emphasis) is much more natural when talking about a teacher or parent stressing the importance of a task.
-
이 그림은 색깔을 부각시켰다.
→
이 그림은 색깔이 부각되었다. (or) 작가는 색깔을 부각시켰다.
Ensure the subject matches the verb. A painting doesn't usually 'highlight' (active) something; the colors 'are highlighted' (passive) or the artist 'highlights' them.
Tipps
Particle Check
Always remember: Subject + 이/가 + 부각되다. Object + 을/를 + 부각시키다. This is the most common error for intermediate learners.
News Watching
If you hear '이슈로 부각되고 있습니다' on the news, it means 'This is becoming a hot topic right now.' It's a key phrase for understanding current events.
Use with 강조
To sound more advanced, use '강조' for the importance of a message and '부각' for the visibility of an issue. Using both in an essay shows great vocabulary range.
The Relief Metaphor
Remember the sculpture origin. If a topic 'pops out' like a 3D carving, '부각' is the perfect word.
Business Meetings
Use '우리의 강점을 부각시킵시다' (Let's highlight our strengths) in meetings to sound professional and strategic.
Essay Transitions
Use '부각되고 있는 또 다른 문제는...' (Another problem being highlighted is...) to transition between paragraphs smoothly.
Food Confusion
If you're at a restaurant and see '김부각', don't expect a 'prominent seaweed'—expect delicious fried seaweed chips!
Neutrality
'부각' is neutral. You can highlight '비리' (corruption) just as easily as '공로' (merit). Don't assume it's always positive.
Emphasis in Speech
When you want to focus on one specific part of your story, say '특히 이 점이 부각되었어요' (Especially this point was highlighted).
Mnemonic
Bu (Float) + Gak (Carve) = Floating Carving. It's an image that stands out!
Einprägen
Eselsbrücke
Think of 'Bu' as a 'Buoy' floating on the water, and 'Gak' as 'Gawk' (to stare). When something 'Bu-Gaks', it floats up so everyone 'Gawks' at it.
Visuelle Assoziation
Imagine a 3D movie where a character suddenly jumps out of the screen toward you. That 'jumping out' effect is 'Bugak'.
Word Web
Herausforderung
Try to find one news headline today on a Korean news site (like Naver News) that uses the word '부각'. Write it down and translate it.
Wortherkunft
부각 comes from the Hanja characters 浮 (부) and 刻 (각).
Ursprüngliche Bedeutung: The character 浮 (bu) means 'to float' or 'to surface,' and 刻 (gak) means 'to carve' or 'to engrave.' Together, they literally mean 'to carve something so that it floats or surfaces above the background.'
Sino-Korean (Hanja)Kultureller Kontext
No specific sensitivities, but be aware that '부각시키다' can sometimes imply a biased or intentional framing of an issue.
English speakers might use 'spotlight' or 'bring to the fore' in similar contexts, but 'highlight' is the closest day-to-day equivalent.
Im Alltag üben
Kontexte aus dem Alltag
News/Politics
- 쟁점으로 부각되다
- 의혹이 부각되다
- 책임론이 부각되다
- 차별성이 부각되다
Marketing/Business
- 장점을 부각시키다
- 브랜드를 부각하다
- 경쟁력을 부각시키다
- 이미지 부각
Art/Design
- 색채를 부각하다
- 입체감을 부각시키다
- 대비를 부각하다
- 주제를 부각하다
Education/Academic
- 중요성을 부각하다
- 한계점을 부각시키다
- 이론을 부각하다
- 차이점을 부각하다
Personal/Social
- 개성을 부각하다
- 재능이 부각되다
- 존재감을 부각시키다
- 매력을 부각하다
Gesprächseinstiege
"요즘 한국 뉴스에서 가장 부각되는 이슈가 뭐라고 생각하세요? (What do you think is the most highlighted issue in Korean news lately?)"
"자기소개서에서 어떤 장점을 가장 부각하고 싶나요? (What strengths do you want to highlight most in your self-introduction?)"
"이 영화에서 감독이 부각시키고자 한 주제는 무엇일까요? (What theme do you think the director wanted to highlight in this movie?)"
"당신의 나라에서 최근 새롭게 부각되는 사회 문제가 있나요? (Is there a social problem that is newly being highlighted in your country?)"
"디자인할 때 어떤 부분을 가장 부각시키는 편인가요? (Which part do you tend to highlight the most when designing?)"
Tagebuch-Impulse
오늘 하루 중 나에게 가장 중요하게 부각되었던 순간은 언제인가요? (When was the moment that stood out most importantly to you today?)
내가 가진 재능 중에서 세상에 더 부각시키고 싶은 것은 무엇인가요? (What talent of mine do I want to highlight more to the world?)
최근 읽은 뉴스 기사 중에서 가장 강렬하게 부각된 사실은 무엇인가요? (What fact was most strongly highlighted in a news article you read recently?)
나의 성격 중에서 사람들이 잘 모르는, 하지만 부각되었으면 하는 면이 있나요? (Is there a side of your personality that people don't know well, but you wish were highlighted?)
미래에 내가 어떤 사람으로 부각되고 싶은지 써 보세요. (Write about what kind of person you want to be seen/highlighted as in the future.)
Häufig gestellte Fragen
10 FragenYes, but usually to talk about their traits or their presence in a group. You wouldn't say 'I highlight you' in a romantic way, but you could say 'His leadership was highlighted during the crisis' (그의 리더십이 위기 상황에서 부각되었다).
'부각되다' is passive (to be highlighted), used when something naturally gains attention. '부각시키다' is active/causative (to highlight), used when someone intentionally makes something stand out. For example, 'The problem was highlighted' vs 'I highlighted the problem'.
It is less common in very casual talk (like with friends at a cafe) but very common in school, work, or when discussing the news. It sounds a bit formal and intelligent.
Yes, '부각하다' exists and means 'to highlight.' However, '부각시키다' is often preferred when the action of making something stand out is emphasized.
Not necessarily. You can highlight a flaw, a scandal, or a dangerous problem. It just means making it prominent, regardless of whether it's positive or negative.
For actual text on a page, '형광펜으로 칠한 부분' (part colored with a highlighter) or '강조된 텍스트' is more common, but '부각된 부분' can also be used metaphorically.
Yes, it is its original home! It refers to relief carving where figures stand out from the background. In modern art, it refers to making certain elements like color or light prominent.
It is 浮 (float) and 刻 (carve). Think of a carved image floating up from the surface.
Yes, '돋보이다' is a native Korean word that means 'to stand out and look good.' '부각' is more formal and used for abstract issues or strategic highlighting.
Because news is all about 'framing'—choosing which issues are important for the public to see. '부각' perfectly describes this process of bringing an issue to the foreground.
Teste dich selbst 200 Fragen
Write a sentence using '부각되다' about a social issue.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write a sentence using '부각시키다' about a product feature.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translate: 'The importance of health is being highlighted.'
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Translate: 'The artist highlighted the light.'
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Use '부각' in a sentence about a job interview.
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Write a headline for a news article using '부각'.
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Describe a movie using the word '부각'.
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Explain why you should use '부각' instead of '강조' in a formal report.
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Write a sentence about a historical event being highlighted.
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Translate: 'He stood out among the students.'
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Write a sentence using '재부각'.
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Use '부각' to describe a fashion choice.
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Translate: 'The media highlighted only the negative aspects.'
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Write a sentence about environmental protection.
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Use '부각' to describe a building's design.
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Translate: 'The main theme is highlighted throughout the book.'
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Write a sentence about a sports player.
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Use '부각' in a sentence about a corporate strategy.
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Translate: 'The contrast between rich and poor was highlighted.'
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Write a short paragraph (3 sentences) about a current news topic using '부각'.
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Explain the meaning of '부각' in your own words.
Read this aloud:
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Describe a time when you had to highlight your strengths.
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Talk about a current social issue being highlighted in the news.
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How do you highlight a specific point in a presentation?
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Discuss a movie where the main character's traits were well highlighted.
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What is the difference between '강조' and '부각'?
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In marketing, how can you make a brand stand out (부각시키다)?
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Describe a photo you like using '부각'.
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What social problems are being highlighted in your country?
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How can a person show prominence (부각을 나타내다) in their job?
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Why is '부각' a common word in the news?
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Describe the original artistic meaning of '부각'.
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How do you feel when your mistakes are highlighted?
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Is it always good to be highlighted (부각되다)? Why?
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Use '부각' to describe a fashion trend.
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What is the most highlighted news today?
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Explain '수면 위로 부각되다'.
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How do you highlight your personality?
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What kind of topics are 'newly highlighted' (새롭게 부각되다)?
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Finish the sentence: '이번 프로젝트에서 우리는...'
Read this aloud:
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Listen and identify the verb: '문제가 부각되고 있습니다.'
Listen and translate the core idea: '장점을 부각시키세요.'
Who highlighted the issue in this sentence? '정부는 안전 문제를 부각했다.'
What is being highlighted? '그의 천재성이 부각되었다.'
Is the sentence active or passive? '이슈가 부각되었다.'
What is the speaker talking about? '디자인이 부각되는 옷이에요.'
Identify the context: '이번 대선에서 경제 공약이 부각될 전망입니다.'
What is being emphasized? '건강의 소중함이 다시금 부각되고 있습니다.'
Is the highlighting strong? '강렬하게 부각되었습니다.'
What is the agent? '미디어는 그의 사생활을 부각했다.'
What is the topic? '교육 격차 문제가 사회적으로 부각되었다.'
Is it a new problem? '새롭게 부각되고 있습니다.'
Identify the purpose: '차별성을 부각하기 위해 노력했다.'
What is the tone? '비리가 수면 위로 부각되었다.'
What is being compared? '두 후보의 차이점이 부각되었다.'
/ 200 correct
Perfect score!
Summary
부각 (Bugak) is the go-to word when you want to describe how an issue, a trait, or a feature moves from the background into the center of public attention. Example: '문제가 부각되었다' (The problem was brought to the fore).
- Bugak means highlighting or making something stand out prominently in a given context.
- It is frequently used in formal Korean, such as news reports and business meetings.
- The word often pairs with '되다' (to be highlighted) or '시키다' (to highlight).
- It originates from an artistic term for relief carving where figures pop out from a surface.
Particle Check
Always remember: Subject + 이/가 + 부각되다. Object + 을/를 + 부각시키다. This is the most common error for intermediate learners.
News Watching
If you hear '이슈로 부각되고 있습니다' on the news, it means 'This is becoming a hot topic right now.' It's a key phrase for understanding current events.
Use with 강조
To sound more advanced, use '강조' for the importance of a message and '부각' for the visibility of an issue. Using both in an essay shows great vocabulary range.
The Relief Metaphor
Remember the sculpture origin. If a topic 'pops out' like a 3D carving, '부각' is the perfect word.
Beispiel
최근 환경 문제의 심각성이 다시 부각되고 있다.
Verwandte Inhalte
Ähnliche Regeln
Mehr academic Wörter
입체적
B2Dreidimensional wirkend oder etwas aus mehreren Perspektiven betrachtend.
~에 관해
B1Ein Ausdruck, der 'über' oder 'betreffend' bedeutet. Er wird in formellen Kontexten verwendet, um ein Thema einzuleiten.
~에 대하여
A2Über oder bezüglich eines bestimmten Themas. 'Ich lerne über die koreanische Geschichte.'
~대해
A2Es bedeutet 'über' oder 'bezüglich'. Man verwendet es, um das Thema eines Gesprächs oder Gedankens anzugeben.
~에 관하여
A2Bezüglich oder über ein Thema. Wird in formalen Situationen wie Berichten oder Reden verwendet.
~에 대해(서)
A1Bezeichnet das Thema oder den Gegenstand einer Diskussion und bedeutet 'über' oder 'bezüglich'. Es wird häufig mit Verben des Sagens oder Denkens verwendet.
무엇보다
A2Vor allem; mehr als alles andere.
결석생
A2A student who is absent from class.
추상화하다
B2Abstrahieren: etwas theoretisch oder losgelöst von seiner physischen Realität betrachten.
추상
A2Abstraction; the quality of dealing with ideas rather than events.
