At the A1 beginner level, the word 방지하다 (to prevent) is generally considered too formal and complex for active use in daily conversation. Beginners are focusing on basic survival Korean, such as ordering food, introducing themselves, and navigating simple daily tasks. Instead of using a formal Sino-Korean word like 방지하다, an A1 learner would typically express the idea of stopping or preventing something using much simpler, native Korean structures. For example, they might use the negative adverb 안 (not) or 지 않다 combined with a basic verb, or they might use the native Korean verb 막다 (to block/stop). If an A1 learner wants to say 'I closed the window to prevent the cold air from coming in,' they wouldn't use 방지하다. They would say something like '추워서 창문을 닫았어요' (I closed the window because it was cold) or '바람을 막아요' (I block the wind). However, while A1 learners do not need to speak or write this word, passive recognition can be incredibly helpful. If an A1 learner travels to South Korea, they will see the noun form 방지 (prevention) on numerous warning signs. For instance, they might see 미끄럼 방지 (Caution: Slippery / Anti-slip) on wet floors in subway stations or 끼임 방지 (Watch your hands / Anti-pinch) on elevator doors. Recognizing the characters 방지 can help a beginner understand that a sign is a safety warning, even if they cannot read the rest of the sentence. Therefore, at this level, the pedagogical focus should strictly be on visual recognition of the noun form in environmental print, rather than attempting to conjugate or use the verb form in spoken sentences. Teachers should introduce it as a 'survival sight word' associated with caution and safety.
At the A2 elementary level, learners are beginning to understand more complex sentences and are expanding their vocabulary to include words relevant to daily life, transportation, and basic public services. While 방지하다 is still on the formal side, A2 learners will start encountering it more frequently in listening and reading exercises, particularly those simulating public announcements or simple news snippets. At this stage, learners should understand that 방지하다 means to stop something bad from happening. They can begin to learn basic collocations, such as 사고를 방지하다 (to prevent an accident). A2 learners can also start practicing the use of this verb with the purpose grammar pattern -(으)려고 or -기 위해서. For example, a learner might practice reading or constructing a sentence like '사고를 방지하기 위해서 조심해야 해요' (We must be careful in order to prevent accidents). This helps them connect the formal vocabulary word with foundational grammar structures. Furthermore, A2 learners can expand their recognition of the noun form (방지) in compound words beyond just simple signs. They might learn words like 화재 방지 (fire prevention) or 범죄 방지 (crime prevention) when studying vocabulary related to community and safety. While they might still prefer the simpler word 막다 in their own casual speech, they should be encouraged to use 방지하다 in writing assignments or when role-playing more formal situations, such as speaking to a police officer or reading a notice from an apartment management office. The goal at the A2 level is to transition the word from purely passive recognition to guided, structured use in appropriate contexts.
The B1 intermediate level is the critical stage where 방지하다 becomes an essential part of a learner's active vocabulary. At this level, learners are expected to discuss topics beyond immediate personal needs, including social issues, workplace scenarios, and general news. 방지하다 is the perfect word for these contexts. B1 learners must master the conjugation of this verb and its use with the object particle 을/를. They should confidently produce sentences like '정부는 환경 오염을 방지하기 위해 새로운 법을 만들었습니다' (The government made a new law to prevent environmental pollution). At this stage, learners must also clearly distinguish between 방지하다 and its close synonym 예방하다. Teachers should provide exercises that require learners to choose the correct word based on context (e.g., using 예방하다 for diseases and 방지하다 for accidents or systemic errors). B1 learners should also be introduced to the passive form, 방지되다 (to be prevented), and practice using it with the subject particle 이/가. For example, '안전벨트 덕분에 큰 부상이 방지되었습니다' (Thanks to the seatbelt, a major injury was prevented). This level also demands an understanding of how to use the word in professional communication. If a B1 learner is writing an email in a business Korean class, they should be able to use phrases like '문제 재발을 방지하겠습니다' (I will prevent the recurrence of the problem). By the end of the B1 level, 방지하다 should feel comfortable and natural when discussing safety, rules, policies, and problem-solving, marking a significant step up in the learner's ability to sound mature and educated in Korean.
At the B2 upper-intermediate level, learners are refining their ability to express complex ideas fluently and accurately. The use of 방지하다 at this level should be automatic and highly nuanced. B2 learners are reading actual Korean newspapers, watching news broadcasts, and participating in debates or discussions about societal issues. Consequently, they will encounter 방지하다 in dense, formal texts and must be able to comprehend it quickly. At this stage, vocabulary expansion involves learning sophisticated collocations and idiomatic expressions related to prevention. Learners should use adverbs naturally with the verb, such as 사전에 방지하다 (to prevent in advance) or 미연에 방지하다 (to nip in the bud/prevent beforehand). They should be able to construct complex, multi-clause sentences using advanced grammar patterns. For instance, '경제 위기가 악화되는 것을 미연에 방지하고자 중앙은행은 금리를 인상하기로 결정했습니다' (In order to prevent the economic crisis from worsening beforehand, the central bank decided to raise interest rates). B2 learners should also be adept at nominalizing the verb and using it in formal presentations or reports. They must understand the subtle differences in tone between native Korean words (like 막다) and Sino-Korean words (like 방지하다) and intentionally choose the latter to elevate the formality of their speech or writing. Furthermore, they should be able to discuss the effectiveness of various '방지 대책' (preventive measures) in essays, demonstrating not just linguistic competence, but also cultural and societal awareness of how South Korea approaches public safety and policy-making.
At the C1 advanced level, learners possess a near-native command of the language for academic and professional purposes. The use of 방지하다 is no longer just about knowing the definition; it is about stylistic choice, precision, and rhetorical impact. C1 learners engage with highly specialized texts, such as legal documents, academic research papers, and detailed policy briefs. In these contexts, 방지하다 is often part of complex legal or bureaucratic jargon. Learners must be able to parse sentences where the object of 방지하다 is a long, abstract noun phrase. For example, '부당한 시장 개입으로 인한 소비자 권익 침해를 방지하기 위한 법적 근거가 마련되어야 한다' (Legal grounds must be established to prevent the infringement of consumer rights caused by unfair market intervention). At this level, learners should also be fully aware of the Hanja roots (防止) and how these roots connect to other vocabulary words (e.g., 방어 defense, 정지 stop). This morphological awareness allows them to guess the meanings of unfamiliar words and deepens their understanding of the lexicon. C1 learners should be capable of writing persuasive essays or delivering formal speeches where they argue for specific preventive measures, using a variety of synonyms (방지하다, 예방하다, 저지하다, 차단하다) with absolute precision to avoid repetition and convey exact nuances. They should also understand how the concept of '방지' reflects broader Korean cultural values regarding collective responsibility, risk management, and social harmony.
At the C2 mastery level, the learner's proficiency is virtually indistinguishable from that of a highly educated native speaker. The word 방지하다 is utilized with effortless fluency across all possible contexts, from casual intellectual debates to the drafting of formal legislation or academic dissertations. C2 learners do not merely use the word; they manipulate it to achieve specific rhetorical effects. They understand the historical and sociopolitical contexts in which certain '방지법' (prevention laws) were enacted in South Korea, such as the '김영란법' (Improper Solicitation and Graft Act) which is fundamentally a '부패 방지법' (anti-corruption law). They can discuss these topics using highly sophisticated vocabulary and complex sentence structures. At this level, learners can also play with the language, perhaps using the formal word 방지하다 in a slightly ironic or humorous way in a casual setting to create a specific comedic effect, demonstrating a profound mastery of register and tone. They are completely comfortable with the most obscure or formal collocations and can seamlessly integrate the passive, causative, and nominalized forms of the verb into their discourse. For a C2 learner, 방지하다 is a fundamental building block of high-level intellectual expression, allowing them to articulate comprehensive strategies, critique systemic failures, and propose visionary solutions in flawless, authoritative Korean.

방지하다 in 30 Sekunden

  • To prevent a bad event.
  • Used for accidents and crimes.
  • Formal and professional tone.
  • Often used with -기 위해.
The Korean verb 방지하다 (bang-ji-ha-da) is a formal and highly essential vocabulary word that translates to 'to prevent' or 'to stop something bad from happening.' Understanding this word requires a deep dive into its Hanja roots, its cultural implications, and its precise usage in modern Korean society. The word is composed of two Hanja characters: 防 (막을 방, meaning 'to defend' or 'to block') and 止 (그칠 지, meaning 'to stop' or 'to halt'). Together, they form the concept of blocking an undesirable event before it occurs or stopping it in its tracks. This word is predominantly used in formal, written, or professional contexts rather than casual daily conversation. When you use 방지하다, you are signaling a proactive approach to problem-solving, which is a highly valued trait in Korean corporate and public governance cultures.
Hanja Breakdown
防 (방) implies a shield or a barrier, while 止 (지) implies bringing motion to a complete standstill.

우리는 사고를 방지하다 위해 노력해야 합니다.

In Korean society, the concept of prevention is deeply embedded in public policy, safety regulations, and healthcare. You will frequently encounter this word in news reports discussing government measures to prevent accidents, economic downturns, or the spread of diseases. The distinction between physical blocking and conceptual prevention is crucial. While a physical barrier might '막다' (block) a road, a policy '방지하다' (prevents) corruption.
Usage Context
Primarily used with abstract nouns representing negative events such as accidents (사고), crimes (범죄), or pollution (오염).

재발을 방지하다 위한 대책을 마련했습니다.

Furthermore, the word often appears in compound nouns, such as 사고 방지 (accident prevention) or 노화 방지 (anti-aging). This noun form is incredibly common in marketing and product descriptions. Understanding the nuances of this word elevates your Korean from conversational to professional. It demonstrates an ability to discuss complex societal issues, safety protocols, and strategic planning.
Tone and Register
Highly formal, objective, and authoritative. Suitable for news, essays, and official announcements.

피해를 방지하다 것은 우리의 의무입니다.

When learning this word, it is also important to consider its synonyms and how they differ. For instance, 예방하다 is often used for diseases, while 방지하다 is broader, covering accidents and systemic issues.

지구 온난화를 방지하다 위한 국제적인 협력이 필요합니다.

By mastering 방지하다, learners unlock the ability to comprehend a vast array of informational texts in Korean, from public safety posters on the subway to complex geopolitical analyses in major newspapers.

범죄를 방지하다 위해 CCTV를 설치했습니다.

Ultimately, this vocabulary item is a cornerstone of advanced proficiency, bridging the gap between intermediate understanding and advanced fluency in formal Korean discourse.
Using the verb 방지하다 correctly involves understanding its grammatical requirements, common collocations, and structural patterns in Korean sentences. As a transitive verb, it strictly requires an object, which is marked by the object particles 을 or 를. The object is almost always a noun representing a negative, undesirable, or harmful event. For example, you would say 사고를 방지하다 (to prevent an accident) or 범죄를 방지하다 (to prevent a crime). You cannot use this word with positive outcomes; saying 행복을 방지하다 (to prevent happiness) sounds completely unnatural and incorrect to a native speaker. One of the most common grammatical structures used with this verb is the purpose pattern -기 위해서 (in order to). Because prevention is an action taken with a specific goal in mind, you will frequently see sentences like 사고를 방지하기 위해서 규칙을 지켜야 합니다 (In order to prevent accidents, we must follow the rules). This structure highlights the proactive nature of the verb. Another frequent pattern is the noun modification form -는 것 (the act of). For instance, 피해를 방지하는 것이 가장 중요합니다 (Preventing damage is the most important thing). In formal writing, the verb is often transformed into its noun form, 방지, and combined with other nouns to create compound words. Examples include 재발 방지 (prevention of recurrence), 확산 방지 (prevention of spread), and 화재 방지 (fire prevention). These compound nouns are extremely common in official documents, news headlines, and public signs. When used in the passive voice, the verb becomes 방지되다 (to be prevented). This is useful when the focus is on the outcome rather than the person taking the action. For example, 백신을 통해 감염이 방지되었습니다 (Infection was prevented through the vaccine). Notice that the subject particle 이/가 is used with the passive form. In terms of tense, 방지하다 can be conjugated normally: 방지합니다 (present formal), 방지했어요 (past polite), 방지할 것입니다 (future formal). However, because prevention is often an ongoing effort or a future goal, the future tense and imperative forms are particularly prevalent. In workplace environments, you might hear commands like 오류를 방지하십시오 (Please prevent errors) or proposals like 손실을 방지합시다 (Let's prevent losses). It is also important to note the use of adverbs with this verb. Adverbs like 사전에 (in advance), 철저히 (thoroughly), and 미연에 (beforehand) frequently accompany 방지하다 to emphasize the thoroughness or timing of the prevention. For example, 문제를 미연에 방지하다 means to nip a problem in the bud or prevent it before it even starts. Mastering these grammatical structures and collocations will allow you to use 방지하다 naturally and effectively in a wide range of professional and academic contexts, significantly improving the sophistication of your Korean communication skills.
The verb 방지하다 is ubiquitous in formal, public, and professional environments in South Korea. Because it deals with the concept of preventing negative events, its primary domains are news broadcasting, public safety announcements, corporate communications, medical contexts, and legal or administrative documents. If you turn on a Korean news channel, you are almost guaranteed to hear this word within the first few minutes. News anchors use it when reporting on government policies aimed at preventing economic inflation (물가 상승 방지), measures to stop the spread of an infectious disease (전염병 확산 방지), or new laws designed to prevent cybercrime (사이버 범죄 방지). In these contexts, the word lends a tone of seriousness and official authority to the report. Public transportation is another major area where this word is frequently heard and seen. On the Seoul subway, announcements constantly remind passengers to hold the handrails to prevent fall accidents (넘어짐 사고를 방지하기 위해). Signs on escalators, buses, and train platforms use the noun form, such as 끼임 방지 (prevention of getting caught in doors) or 미끄럼 방지 (anti-slip). In the corporate world, 방지하다 is a staple of meetings, reports, and emails. Companies are always looking to prevent losses (손실 방지), prevent errors (오류 방지), or prevent the leakage of confidential information (정보 유출 방지). During a presentation, a manager might outline a new strategy by saying, '이러한 실수의 재발을 방지하기 위해...' (In order to prevent the recurrence of such mistakes...). In the realm of technology and IT security, the word is used to describe software and protocols designed to protect users. Antivirus programs advertise their ability to prevent hacking (해킹 방지) or prevent data corruption (데이터 손상 방지). In everyday consumer life, you will see the word on product packaging. Skincare products often boast about 노화 방지 (anti-aging or preventing aging) or 주름 방지 (wrinkle prevention). Car manuals and safety features highlight 충돌 방지 시스템 (collision prevention systems). Even in apartment complexes, notices from the management office might request residents' cooperation to prevent noise complaints (층간소음 방지). While you might not hear a group of friends using 방지하다 casually over dinner (they would likely use the simpler native Korean word 막다), the moment the conversation shifts to politics, social issues, or professional matters, 방지하다 becomes the appropriate and expected vocabulary choice. Therefore, for any learner aiming to live, work, or study in Korea, recognizing and understanding the contexts in which this word appears is absolutely essential for navigating daily life and participating in higher-level discourse.
When learning the formal verb 방지하다, students frequently make several specific types of errors related to nuance, grammar, and vocabulary selection. The most common mistake is confusing 방지하다 with its close synonym 예방하다. While both translate to 'prevent' in English, their usage in Korean has distinct boundaries. 예방하다 is primarily used for medical contexts, such as preventing diseases (질병을 예방하다), or for taking proactive steps against natural disasters. 방지하다, on the other hand, is broader and is typically used for stopping accidents, mistakes, crimes, or systemic issues from occurring or worsening. Using 방지하다 for a cold (감기를 방지하다) sounds awkward to a native speaker; it should be 감기를 예방하다. Another frequent error involves the misuse of particles. Because 방지하다 is a transitive verb, it requires an object marked by 을/를. Learners sometimes mistakenly use the subject particle 이/가 when they actually mean the active verb, or they fail to switch to the passive form 방지되다 when using 이/가. For example, saying '사고가 방지하다' is grammatically incorrect; it must be '사고를 방지하다' (active) or '사고가 방지되다' (passive). Furthermore, learners often attempt to use 방지하다 with positive nouns. Since the root meaning involves stopping something, the object must be negative. You cannot say '성공을 방지하다' (to prevent success) unless you are a villain in a movie actively trying to stop someone's success, and even then, '막다' (to block) or '방해하다' (to interfere) would be more natural. 방지하다 implies preventing a detriment. Register and tone present another stumbling block. Because 방지하다 is a Sino-Korean word (Hanja-based), it carries a formal, stiff tone. Using it in casual, everyday conversation with friends can sound overly dramatic or robotic. For instance, if you want to tell a friend to close the window to prevent bugs from coming in, saying '벌레가 들어오는 것을 방지하기 위해 창문을 닫아' is too formal. A native speaker would simply say '벌레 안 들어오게 창문 닫아' or '벌레 막게 창문 닫아'. Overusing formal vocabulary in informal settings is a hallmark of intermediate learners trying to sound advanced. Finally, pronunciation mistakes can occur. The word is pronounced [방지하다], which is straightforward, but when combined with grammatical endings, learners sometimes stumble over the flow. For example, in the phrase 방지하기 위해서, the rhythm should be smooth. Additionally, learners sometimes confuse the spelling with similar-sounding words like 방치하다 (to neglect), which has a completely different and almost opposite implication in terms of action (doing nothing vs taking action). Paying close attention to these common pitfalls will help learners use 방지하다 with the precision and naturalness of a native speaker.
The Korean language is rich in vocabulary related to stopping, blocking, or preventing, and understanding the subtle differences between 방지하다 and its synonyms is crucial for advanced fluency. The most direct native Korean equivalent to 방지하다 is 막다. 막다 is a highly versatile verb that means to block, stop, or defend against something. Unlike 방지하다, which is formal and abstract, 막다 can be used for physical objects (막대기로 문을 막다 - to block the door with a stick) as well as abstract concepts (사고를 막다 - to prevent an accident). 막다 is the preferred choice in casual conversation and everyday situations. Another extremely common synonym is 예방하다. As mentioned previously, 예방하다 (to prevent, to take precautions) is heavily associated with healthcare, medicine, and hygiene. You get vaccinations to 예방하다 diseases, and you wash your hands to 예방하다 infections. While you can use 예방하다 for accidents (사고 예방), 방지하다 is often preferred when discussing systemic, structural, or policy-driven prevention of non-medical issues. 저지하다 is another related term, meaning to hinder, block, or hold back. This word carries a strong nuance of physical or active resistance against an opposing force. Police might 저지하다 a violent protest, or an army might 저지하다 an enemy advance. It implies a struggle or a direct confrontation, whereas 방지하다 is more about setting up systems so the bad event doesn't happen in the first place. 차단하다 means to block off, shut off, or cut off completely. It is often used when dealing with flows of things, such as blocking sunlight (자외선 차단), cutting off internet access (인터넷 차단), or blocking a road. It focuses on creating an impenetrable barrier. 피하다 means to avoid or dodge. While preventing (방지하다) involves taking action to stop an event from happening, avoiding (피하다) involves moving yourself out of the way of the event. You might 피하다 a puddle on the street, but you would 방지하다 a leak in your roof. Finally, 방어하다 means to defend. This is used in sports (defending a goal), military contexts, or legal defense. It implies protecting oneself against an active attack, rather than preventing an abstract accident. By carefully studying these synonyms—막다 (casual/physical block), 예방하다 (medical/proactive precaution), 저지하다 (active resistance/hindrance), 차단하다 (complete cutoff/blocking), 피하다 (avoidance), and 방어하다 (defense)—learners can select the exact word needed to convey their intended meaning, thereby elevating their Korean from simple communication to precise, nuanced expression.

How Formal Is It?

Schwierigkeitsgrad

Wichtige Grammatik

-기 위해서 (In order to)

-는 것을 막다/방지하다 (Preventing the act of)

-도록 하다 (To ensure that / so that)

Passive voice (-되다)

Noun modifier -(으)ㄹ (Future/Prospective)

Beispiele nach Niveau

1

미끄럼 방지

Anti-slip (Caution: Slippery)

Noun form used on signs.

2

사고 방지

Accident prevention

Compound noun.

3

화재 방지

Fire prevention

Compound noun.

4

추락 방지

Fall prevention

Compound noun.

5

소음 방지

Noise prevention

Compound noun.

6

끼임 방지

Anti-pinch (doors)

Compound noun.

7

정전기 방지

Anti-static

Compound noun.

8

도난 방지

Theft prevention

Compound noun.

1

사고를 방지해요.

We prevent accidents.

Object particle + present tense.

2

위험을 방지했습니다.

We prevented the danger.

Past formal tense.

3

실수를 방지하고 싶어요.

I want to prevent mistakes.

-고 싶다 (want to) pattern.

4

범죄를 방지합시다.

Let's prevent crime.

-ㅂ시다 (let's) formal proposal.

5

문제를 방지할 거예요.

I will prevent the problem.

Future tense.

6

사고를 방지하기 위해서 조심해요.

I am careful in order to prevent accidents.

-기 위해서 (in order to).

7

이것은 화재 방지 시스템입니다.

This is a fire prevention system.

Noun modifier.

8

피해를 방지하세요.

Please prevent damage.

Imperative formal.

1

정부는 경제 위기를 방지하기 위해 노력하고 있습니다.

The government is making efforts to prevent an economic crisis.

-기 위해 + -고 있다 (present progressive).

2

비밀번호를 자주 변경하여 해킹을 방지하십시오.

Please prevent hacking by changing your password frequently.

-아/어/여서 (by doing) + imperative.

3

그 법안은 환경 오염을 방지하는 데 목적이 있습니다.

The bill aims to prevent environmental pollution.

-는 데 (in doing something).

4

안전 교육은 산업 재해를 방지하는 가장 좋은 방법입니다.

Safety training is the best way to prevent industrial accidents.

Noun modifying form -는.

5

우리는 고객의 개인정보 유출을 철저히 방지해야 합니다.

We must thoroughly prevent the leakage of customers' personal information.

Adverb + -아/어야 하다 (must).

6

백신 접종으로 많은 감염이 방지되었습니다.

Many infections were prevented through vaccination.

Passive voice (방지되다).

7

재발을 방지하기 위한 대책을 세웠습니까?

Have you established measures to prevent a recurrence?

-기 위한 (for the purpose of) modifying a noun.

8

음주운전을 방지하기 위해 단속을 강화했습니다.

Crackdowns were strengthened to prevent drunk driving.

-기 위해 (in order to).

1

지구 온난화를 미연에 방지하지 않으면 심각한 결과가 초래될 것입니다.

If we do not prevent global warming beforehand, serious consequences will be brought about.

미연에 (beforehand) + conditional -(으)면.

2

이 시스템은 데이터 손실을 방지하도록 설계되었습니다.

This system is designed to prevent data loss.

-도록 (so that) + passive 설계되다.

3

부패를 방지하기 위한 제도적 장치가 시급히 마련되어야 합니다.

Institutional mechanisms to prevent corruption must be urgently established.

Complex noun phrase + passive 마련되다.

4

갈등이 극단으로 치닫는 것을 방지하는 것이 리더의 역할입니다.

It is the leader's role to prevent conflicts from escalating to extremes.

-는 것을 방지하다 (preventing the act of).

5

해당 규정은 불공정 거래를 사전에 방지하는 데 기여할 것으로 기대됩니다.

The regulation is expected to contribute to preventing unfair trade in advance.

사전에 (in advance) + -는 데 기여하다.

6

과도한 스트레스는 탈모를 유발할 수 있으므로 이를 방지하려는 노력이 필요합니다.

Excessive stress can cause hair loss, so efforts to prevent this are necessary.

-(으)려는 (intending to) modifying 노력.

7

안전 수칙을 무시하면 대형 참사를 방지할 수 없습니다.

If safety rules are ignored, a major disaster cannot be prevented.

Conditional + negative potential -(으)ㄹ 수 없다.

8

기업들은 기술 유출을 방지하고자 보안 시스템에 막대한 투자를 하고 있습니다.

Companies are investing heavily in security systems in order to prevent technology leaks.

-고자 (in order to - formal).

1

인플레이션의 급격한 상승을 방지하기 위해 중앙은행은 긴축 통화 정책을 단행했습니다.

To prevent a rapid rise in inflation, the central bank executed a tight monetary policy.

Formal economic terminology + 단행하다.

2

이 조약은 대량 살상 무기의 확산을 방지하고 국제 평화를 유지하는 데 그 의의가 있다.

The significance of this treaty lies in preventing the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction and maintaining international peace.

-고 (and) connecting complex clauses + -는 데 의의가 있다.

3

사회적 양극화가 고착화되는 것을 방지하려면 보다 근본적인 복지 제도의 개편이 요구된다.

To prevent social polarization from becoming entrenched, a more fundamental reorganization of the welfare system is required.

-려면 (if one intends to) + passive 요구되다.

4

저작권 침해를 원천적으로 방지할 수 있는 새로운 디지털 워터마킹 기술이 개발되었다.

A new digital watermarking technology that can fundamentally prevent copyright infringement has been developed.

원천적으로 (fundamentally) + relative clause.

5

경영진의 도덕적 해이를 방지하기 위한 내부 통제 시스템의 강화가 주주총회에서 논의되었다.

The strengthening of the internal control system to prevent the moral hazard of management was discussed at the general shareholders' meeting.

Complex noun phrase acting as the subject.

6

전염병의 지역 사회 전파를 조기에 방지하지 못한 것이 이번 사태의 가장 큰 패인으로 지목된다.

The failure to prevent the community spread of the infectious disease early on is pointed out as the biggest cause of defeat in this situation.

-지 못한 것 (the failure to) + passive 지목되다.

7

무분별한 난개발을 방지하고 자연 생태계를 보존하기 위한 엄격한 환경 규제가 시행될 예정이다.

Strict environmental regulations will be implemented to prevent reckless overdevelopment and preserve the natural ecosystem.

Parallel verbs modifying a noun + 시행될 예정이다.

8

인공지능의 편향성 문제를 미연에 방지하기 위해서는 개발 단계부터 윤리적 가이드라인이 적용되어야 한다.

To prevent the issue of AI bias beforehand, ethical guidelines must be applied from the development stage.

미연에 방지하다 + -기 위해서는.

1

헌법재판소는 국가 권력의 남용을 방지하고 국민의 기본권을 수호하는 최후의 보루로서 기능해야 한다.

The Constitutional Court must function as the last bastion to prevent the abuse of state power and protect the fundamental rights of the people.

Highly formal legal discourse + -(으)로서.

2

역사적 비극의 재발을 방지하기 위해서는 과거사에 대한 철저한 진상 규명과 반성이 선행되어야 함은 자명한 이치이다.

It is a self-evident truth that in order to prevent the recurrence of historical tragedies, a thorough investigation of the truth about the past and reflection must precede.

-함은 자명한 이치이다 (it is self-evident that).

3

해당 법률안은 시장 지배적 사업자의 독점적 지위 남용을 방지함으로써 공정한 경쟁 질서를 확립하려는 입법 취지를 담고 있다.

The bill contains the legislative intent to establish a fair competitive order by preventing the abuse of monopolistic status by market-dominant businesses.

-음으로써 (by doing) + 입법 취지.

4

기후 변화로 인한 파국적 재앙을 방지하기 위한 골든타임이 얼마 남지 않았다는 과학계의 경고를 엄중히 받아들여야 한다.

We must strictly accept the scientific community's warning that the golden time to prevent catastrophic disasters caused by climate change is running out.

Complex embedded clauses + 엄중히 받아들이다.

5

금융 당국은 시스템 리스크로의 전이를 방지하기 위해 선제적이고 과감한 유동성 공급 조치를 취하였다.

The financial authorities took preemptive and bold liquidity supply measures to prevent the transition into a systemic risk.

선제적이고 과감한 (preemptive and bold) + 조치를 취하다.

6

사이버 테러를 원천 방지하기 위한 국가 차원의 통합 방위망 구축이 시급한 과제로 대두되고 있다.

The establishment of an integrated national defense network to fundamentally prevent cyber terrorism is emerging as an urgent task.

원천 방지 (noun form) + 대두되고 있다.

7

노사 간의 극단적인 대립을 방지하고 상생의 문화를 조성하기 위해서는 양보와 타협의 정신이 절실히 요구된다.

In order to prevent extreme confrontation between labor and management and create a culture of coexistence, a spirit of concession and compromise is desperately required.

Parallel objectives + 절실히 요구된다.

8

알고리즘의 불투명성으로 인한 민주주의의 훼손을 방지하기 위한 제도적 장치 마련이 전 세계적인 화두로 떠오르고 있다.

The preparation of institutional mechanisms to prevent the undermining of democracy caused by the opacity of algorithms is emerging as a global talking point.

Complex noun phrase acting as subject + 화두로 떠오르다.

Häufige Kollokationen

사고를 방지하다
범죄를 방지하다
확산을 방지하다
피해를 방지하다
재발을 방지하다
노화를 방지하다
부패를 방지하다
혼란을 방지하다
감염을 방지하다
위험을 방지하다

Häufige Phrasen

미연에 방지하다
사전에 방지하다
재발 방지 대책
안전사고 방지
피해 방지

Wird oft verwechselt mit

방지하다 vs 예방하다 (Used more for diseases and health)

방지하다 vs 막다 (More casual, can be used for physical blocking)

방지하다 vs 방치하다 (To neglect - sounds similar but means the opposite in action)

Leicht verwechselbar

방지하다 vs

방지하다 vs

방지하다 vs

방지하다 vs

방지하다 vs

Satzmuster

So verwendest du es

nuance

Implies a systemic or proactive approach to stopping something bad.

formality

Highly formal. Best suited for written Korean, news, and professional settings.

collocation rules

Must be paired with negative concepts (accidents, crimes, errors, pollution).

Häufige Fehler
  • Saying '감기를 방지하다' instead of '감기를 예방하다'.
  • Using the subject particle: '사고가 방지하다' (Incorrect) vs '사고를 방지하다' (Correct).
  • Using it with positive words: '성공을 방지하다' (Incorrect).
  • Using it in casual speech: '비 오는 거 방지하려고 우산 가져왔어' (Awkward, use 막으려고).
  • Confusing it with 방치하다 (to neglect), which has the opposite practical effect.

Tipps

Always use 을/를

Because 방지하다 is a transitive verb, it must take an object. Never use 이/가 unless you are using the passive form 방지되다. Practice saying '사고를 방지하다' to build muscle memory.

Pair with Negative Nouns

Only use 방지하다 with things you don't want to happen. Good pairs include 사고 (accident), 범죄 (crime), 오염 (pollution), and 실수 (mistake). Never pair it with positive concepts.

Formal Contexts Only

Avoid using 방지하다 when chatting casually with friends. It sounds too stiff, like reading a textbook. Instead, use the native Korean verb 막다 for everyday conversations.

Look for Compound Nouns

In reading tests like TOPIK, you will often see 방지 attached to other nouns without a space, like 재발방지 (prevention of recurrence). Treat these as single vocabulary items.

Subway Announcements

Next time you ride public transit in Korea, listen carefully. You will hear '방지하기 위해' (in order to prevent) when they tell you to hold the handrails or watch your step.

Use with -기 위해

When writing essays, the pattern '[Noun]을/를 방지하기 위해' is a fantastic way to introduce a solution to a problem. It instantly makes your writing sound more advanced and structured.

예방 vs 방지

Remember the golden rule: 예방 is for health and diseases (감기 예방), while 방지 is for accidents and systemic issues (사고 방지). Keeping this straight will make you sound like a native.

Learn Adverbs

To sound truly fluent, learn the adverbs that naturally go with this verb. '사전에 방지하다' (prevent in advance) and '철저히 방지하다' (prevent thoroughly) are excellent phrases to memorize.

The Safety Culture

Understanding this word helps you understand modern Korea's emphasis on public safety. The prevalence of '방지' signs reflects a societal effort to protect citizens in dense urban environments.

TOPIK Level 3/4 Essential

If you are taking the TOPIK II exam, this word is absolutely essential for the writing section (Question 53 and 54). You will need it to discuss social problems and propose solutions.

Einprägen

Eselsbrücke

Imagine BANGing a gong to stop (JI) a bad event from happening. BANG-JI-ha-da!

Wortherkunft

Kultureller Kontext

Standard across all regions of South Korea.

High (Formal/Professional)

News broadcasts Public safety announcements Corporate meetings Legal documents Medical advisories

Became highly prominent in public discourse following the establishment of modern safety regulations in the late 20th century.

Im Alltag üben

Kontexte aus dem Alltag

Gesprächseinstiege

"최근 정부의 범죄 방지 대책에 대해 어떻게 생각하세요?"

"회사에서 정보 유출을 방지하기 위해 어떤 시스템을 사용하나요?"

"겨울철 화재를 방지하려면 어떻게 해야 할까요?"

"스트레스로 인한 질병을 방지하는 본인만의 방법이 있나요?"

"환경 오염을 방지하기 위해 우리가 일상에서 할 수 있는 일은 무엇일까요?"

Tagebuch-Impulse

Write about a time you successfully prevented a mistake or accident.

Discuss the most important measures needed to prevent climate change.

Explain how your school or workplace prevents safety hazards.

Write a proposal on how to prevent cyberbullying on social media.

Reflect on the proverb '소 잃고 외양간 고친다' and how it relates to 방지하다.

Häufig gestellte Fragen

10 Fragen

It is grammatically possible but sounds unnatural. Native speakers use 예방하다 for diseases and health issues. 방지하다 is better for accidents, crimes, or systemic errors. So, say 감기를 예방하다, not 감기를 방지하다. Save 방지하다 for things like 사고를 방지하다.

막다 is a native Korean word that is versatile and casual. It can mean physically blocking a hole or preventing an event. 방지하다 is a formal Sino-Korean word used almost exclusively for abstract prevention of negative events. Use 막다 with friends and 방지하다 in essays or news.

방지하다 is a transitive verb. This means it requires a direct object. You must use the object particles 을 or 를 with it. For example, 사고를 방지하다 (to prevent an accident).

To use the passive voice, change 하다 to 되다. The word becomes 방지되다. When using the passive form, the object particle 을/를 changes to the subject particle 이/가. For example, 사고가 방지되다 (the accident is prevented).

No. 방지하다 inherently carries the nuance of stopping something undesirable or harmful. Using it with positive words like '성공' (success) or '행복' (happiness) is incorrect. It must be used with negative words like '사고' (accident) or '오류' (error).

미연에 (未然에) means 'before it happens' or 'beforehand'. The phrase 미연에 방지하다 is a very common formal collocation that means 'to nip in the bud' or 'to prevent something from happening in the first place'. It emphasizes proactive action.

In Korean marketing, the noun form 방지 is used to indicate what a product prevents. For example, 미끄럼 방지 means anti-slip, and 노화 방지 means anti-aging. It is a concise way to state the product's protective benefit.

Yes, but usually only in formal or instructional contexts. For example, a safety manual might say '사고를 방지하십시오' (Please prevent accidents). In everyday speech, you wouldn't command someone this way.

대책 means 'measure' or 'countermeasure'. A 방지 대책 is a preventive measure. You will hear this constantly in the news when the government announces plans to stop a recurring problem, like '범죄 방지 대책' (crime prevention measures).

It is pronounced exactly as it is spelled: [방지하다] (bang-ji-ha-da). Make sure to pronounce the '방' clearly without nasalizing it too much, and keep the '지' crisp.

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