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B1 noun #6,500 am häufigsten 10 Min. Lesezeit

선약

seonyak Top 6,500

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Erklärung 선약 in your Level:

At the A1 level, you only need to know that '선약' (seonyak) means a previous plan or appointment. It is most commonly used with the word '있다' (to have). Even as a beginner, you can use this word to sound very polite. Instead of just saying 'No' when someone asks to meet, you can say '선약이 있어요' (I have a previous engagement). This is much better than saying '안 가요' (I'm not going). At this stage, focus on the sound of the word and its basic meaning. Remember that 'Seon' means 'before' and 'Yak' is like the 'yak' in 'yaksok' (promise). You might hear this in simple classroom dialogues or basic textbooks when characters are making plans for the weekend. It is a noun, so you treat it like any other object you 'have.' For example, '오늘 선약 있어요' (I have a previous engagement today). Don't worry about the Hanja characters yet; just recognize the word as a polite 'I'm busy' phrase. It is one of the first 'polite refusal' words you will learn. Practice saying it clearly: 'Seon-yak.' The 'k' at the end is very soft, almost like you are stopping the air in your throat. This word will help you navigate basic social interactions in Korea without being rude. Even if you don't know the person well, saying '선약이 있어요' is a safe and respectful answer.

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At the A2 level, you should start using '선약' (seonyak) with simple reasons and particles. You should know how to say 'Because of a previous engagement' using the particle '때문에' (ttaemune). For example, '선약 때문에 못 가요' (I can't go because of a previous engagement). You are also learning to specify *when* the engagement is. '내일 선약이 있어요' (I have a previous engagement tomorrow) or '주말에 선약이 있어요' (I have a previous engagement on the weekend). At this level, you can also distinguish between 'yaksok' (general promise) and 'seonyak' (previous engagement). You'll notice that 'seonyak' sounds a bit more 'official' or 'fixed' than 'yaksok.' You should be able to understand when someone uses it to decline your invitation. If a friend says, '미안, 선약이 있어,' you should understand that they are already busy and you shouldn't push them to meet. You might also see this word in simple emails or text messages. It is important to use the correct subject particle '이' (i) with '있다' (itda). Practice the sentence: '죄송해요, 그날은 선약이 있어요' (I'm sorry, I have a previous engagement that day). This level is about building the habit of using 'seonyak' instead of more blunt phrases. It shows you are becoming more aware of Korean social norms regarding politeness and time management.

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At the B1 level, you are expected to use '선약' (seonyak) in more complex social and professional contexts. You should understand the nuance that 'seonyak' acts as a polite 'shield' to protect both the speaker's and the listener's feelings. You should be comfortable using it in formal settings, perhaps with honorifics. For example, '선약이 있으셔서 참석이 어렵다고 하십니다' (He says it's difficult to attend because he has a previous engagement). You should also be able to use the verb '잡다' (to catch/set) or '생기다' (to arise) with it. '갑자기 선약이 생겼어요' (A previous engagement suddenly came up). This is a very common way to explain a change in plans. At B1, you should also understand the cultural weight of the word—that in Korea, a 'seonyak' is generally seen as a non-negotiable commitment. You might use it in writing, such as an email to a professor or a colleague. '이미 선약이 되어 있어 부득이하게 참석하지 못하게 되었습니다' (As I already have a previous engagement, I am unfortunately unable to attend). You are moving beyond simple sentences into explaining the *consequence* of the 'seonyak.' You should also be able to ask others about their plans politely: '혹시 선약 있으신가요?' (Do you happen to have a previous engagement?). This shows a high level of social awareness and linguistic control.

At the B2 level, you should have a firm grasp of the Hanja origins of '선약' (先約) and how it fits into a broader family of words like '예약' (reservation), '계약' (contract), and '공약' (public pledge). You should understand how 'seonyak' functions in business negotiation and formal social etiquette. You can use it to manage expectations and set boundaries without causing offense. For example, you might say, '선약이 우선이라서 그 제안은 받아들이기 어렵습니다' (The previous engagement takes priority, so it's difficult to accept that proposal). You should also be familiar with idiomatic ways the word is used in media or literature. At this level, you can discuss the concept of 'Sinyong' (trust) and how keeping a 'seonyak' is a reflection of one's character. You can handle situations where you might need to *cancel* a 'seonyak'—which is a very delicate matter in Korea—and use appropriate apologetic language. '선약을 취소하게 되어 정말 죄송합니다' (I am truly sorry to have to cancel our previous engagement). You should also be able to recognize when 'seonyak' is being used as a 'white lie' in social situations and respond appropriately with 'nunchi' (social wit). Your use of the word should feel natural and integrated into your overall flow of speech, reflecting an understanding of both the language and the underlying culture of respect and chronological priority.

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At the C1 level, you use '선약' (seonyak) with the precision of a native speaker. You understand the subtle difference between '선약이 있다' and '선약이 잡혀 있다' (the latter implying a more formal scheduling process). You can use the word in high-level business discussions, legal contexts, or academic writing. You might analyze the societal implications of 'seonyak' in a discussion about Korean collectivism versus individualism. You are capable of using sophisticated grammar patterns like '-는 바람에' or '-느라고' to explain the context surrounding a 'seonyak.' For example, '선약을 지키느라고 다른 기회를 놓치고 말았습니다' (I ended up missing another opportunity because I was keeping a previous engagement). You can also use the word metaphorically or in complex professional scenarios, such as discussing 'overlapping previous engagements' (선약이 겹치다). Your vocabulary includes related terms like '선약 불이행' (failure to keep a previous engagement) and you understand the legal or social repercussions of such actions in a Korean context. You can navigate the most formal levels of 'Jondaemal' (honorifics) perfectly when discussing the 'seonyak' of high-ranking individuals. At this level, the word is not just a vocabulary item but a tool for sophisticated social maneuvering and professional communication, reflecting a deep immersion in the Korean linguistic landscape.

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At the C2 level, your understanding of '선약' (seonyak) is exhaustive. You can discuss the historical evolution of the term and its relation to Confucian values of 'Uiri' (loyalty/justice) and 'Sin' (trust). You can interpret the use of 'seonyak' in classical Korean literature or modern high-stakes political discourse, where the word might be used as a strategic diplomatic tool. You are sensitive to the most minute nuances—how the choice of 'seonyak' over '볼일' (business) or '약속' (promise) can change the entire tone of a conversation from casual to grave. You can write essays or give presentations on the philosophy of time and commitment in Korean society, using 'seonyak' as a primary example. You understand how the concept of 'seonyak' interacts with modern technology, such as digital calendars and the changing nature of social commitments in the 21st century. You can even use the word in creative writing to imply character traits; a character who never breaks a 'seonyak' is established as principled and reliable. Your command of the word is indistinguishable from that of an educated native speaker, and you can explain its complexities to others with ease. You are aware of regional variations in usage and can adapt your speech to any register, from the most archaic formal styles to the most modern professional jargon.

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선약 in 30 Sekunden

Seonyak means a previous engagement or appointment made before the current one being discussed.
It is a polite way to decline invitations without giving too much personal detail.
The word comes from Hanja: Seon (First) and Yak (Promise).
Commonly paired with '있다' (to have) or '때문에' (because of).

The Korean word 선약 (先約) is a sophisticated yet common noun that translates to 'previous engagement' or 'prior appointment.' To understand its depth, one must look at its Hanja roots: Seon (先) meaning 'before' or 'first,' and Yak (約) meaning 'promise' or 'agreement.' Together, they form a concept that is foundational to Korean social etiquette. In Korean society, where maintaining harmony and respect for time is paramount, having a 선약 is the most socially acceptable and polite way to decline an invitation. It signals that your inability to attend is not due to a lack of interest, but rather due to a commitment made previously that you are honor-bound to keep.

Etymological Breakdown: The character 'Seon' emphasizes the chronological priority, while 'Yak' reinforces the binding nature of the agreement. This word is more formal than the general word for promise, 'yaksok.'
Social Function: It serves as a 'social shield.' When someone asks you to dinner at the last minute, saying you have a 'seonyak' saves both parties from embarrassment.

죄송하지만 그날은 이미 선약이 있어서 참석하기 어렵겠습니다. (I am sorry, but I already have a previous engagement that day, so it will be difficult to attend.)

중요한 선약이 잡혀 있어요. (A significant previous appointment has been scheduled.)

Usage Contexts: Commonly used in business settings, formal social gatherings, and even among close friends when you want to emphasize that you aren't just flaking out.

어제 친구와 선약을 했습니다. (I made a previous engagement with a friend yesterday.)

선약 때문에 먼저 일어나보겠습니다. (I have a previous engagement, so I will be leaving first.)

Grammar Note: It is most frequently paired with the verb '있다' (to have) or '때문에' (because of). It functions strictly as a noun.

갑작스러운 제안은 감사하지만, 이미 선약이 있습니다. (Thank you for the sudden proposal, but I already have a previous engagement.)

This word encapsulates the Korean value of 'Sinyong' (trust/credit). By citing a 'seonyak,' you are demonstrating that you are a person of your word who respects commitments made in the past. It is a linguistic tool that facilitates social lubrication, allowing for polite boundaries in a collectivist culture where saying a flat 'no' can be perceived as aggressive. Over 600 words of context here would also explore how 'seonyak' differs from 'yaksok'—while 'yaksok' is any promise, 'seonyak' specifically highlights the chronological precedence, which is the key justification for not accepting a new request. It is often used with honorifics like '있으시다' when referring to someone of higher status having a previous engagement.

Using 선약 correctly requires an understanding of Korean sentence structure and politeness levels. Because this word is often used to decline invitations, it is frequently found in sentences that include apologies or explanations. The most basic pattern is '[Time/Date] + 에 + 선약이 있다'. For example, '내일 선약이 있어요' (I have a previous engagement tomorrow). To make it more formal, especially in a business context, you would use '선약이 있으신가요?' (Do you have a previous engagement?) when asking a superior.

Reasoning with '때문에': '선약 때문에' is a powerful phrase. It translates to 'because of a previous engagement.' It is the ultimate polite excuse. '선약 때문에 못 가요' (I can't go because of a previous engagement).

미안해, 오늘 저녁에 선약이 있어. (Sorry, I have a previous engagement this evening.)

부장님께서는 이미 선약이 있으셔서 회식에 참석하지 못하십니다. (The department manager already has a previous engagement, so he cannot attend the company dinner.)

The 'Action' of Seonyak: While '선약' is a noun, you can 'make' one by using '선약을 하다' or '선약을 잡다' (to catch/set a previous engagement). '선약을 잡기가 힘들어요' means 'It is hard to schedule an appointment.'

다음 주말에는 가족과 선약이 되어 있습니다. (I have a previous engagement with my family next weekend.)

혹시 금요일 저녁에 선약 있으세요? (By any chance, do you have a previous engagement on Friday evening?)

Combining with Adjectives: You can describe a 'seonyak' as '중요한' (important), '피치 못할' (unavoidable), or '오래된' (long-standing). This adds weight to your reason for declining.

오래전부터 잡혀 있던 선약이라 취소할 수 없어요. (It's a previous engagement that was set a long time ago, so I can't cancel it.)

In more complex sentences, '선약' can be used to compare two commitments. '새로운 약속보다 선약이 우선입니다' (The previous engagement takes priority over the new promise). This reflects the ethical stance of prioritizing chronological order in social contracts. When writing, ensure that the tone matches the context; '선약' is inherently a bit formal, so using it with '반말' (informal speech) like '선약 있어' makes you sound like a polite friend, whereas '선약이 있습니다' is standard for coworkers.

In Korea, you will hear 선약 in various settings, ranging from the workplace to high-end social circles and even in daily dramas. It is a staple of 'K-Drama' dialogue, often used when a character needs to avoid a tense meeting or a date they aren't interested in. For instance, a CEO might tell a persistent suitor, '이미 선약이 있어서 실례하겠습니다' (I already have a previous engagement, so please excuse me).

In the Office: During lunch or after-work 'Hoesik' (company dinner) planning, employees often use '선약' to politely decline without having to explain their personal lives. It acts as a professional boundary.

김 대리, 오늘 퇴근하고 술 한잔 어때? / 아, 과장님 죄송합니다. 오늘은 선약이 있습니다. (Assistant Manager Kim, how about a drink after work? / Ah, Manager, I'm sorry. I have a previous engagement today.)

이번 주 토요일에 시간 되세요? / 그날은 가족들과 선약이 있어서요. (Are you free this Saturday? / I have a previous engagement with my family that day.)

In Customer Service: When trying to book a popular restaurant or a hair salon, the staff might say '그 시간에는 이미 선약이 꽉 차 있습니다' (All appointments are already full for that time).

죄송합니다, 손님. 그 시간대에는 이미 다른 분과 선약이 되어 있습니다. (I'm sorry, customer. At that time, a previous engagement has already been made with someone else.)

갑자기 선약이 생겨서 못 갈 것 같아. (A previous engagement suddenly came up, so I don't think I can go.)

News and Media: In political news, when a diplomat cannot meet another, the official statement often cites '선약' as the reason to avoid diplomatic friction.

대통령은 선약 일정 때문에 해당 행사에 불참하기로 했습니다. (The President decided not to attend the event due to a previous engagement schedule.)

Hearing this word in the wild often comes with specific body language—a slight tilt of the head, a look of regret, and sometimes a hand near the chest. This is because the speaker is effectively saying, 'I value our potential meeting, but I must value my existing promise more.' It is a word that carries the weight of personal integrity. In high-frequency environments like Seoul's Gangnam district or business hubs like Yeouido, 'seonyak' is used dozens of times a day as people juggle complex schedules.

One of the most frequent mistakes English speakers make when learning 선약 is confusing it with the general word for promise, yaksok (약속). While all 'seonyak' are 'yaksok,' not all 'yaksok' are 'seonyak.' 'Yaksok' can refer to a promise to do something, a plan to meet, or a vow. 'Seonyak' is specifically about the *timing* and the *priority*. You don't say 'I made a seonyak to be a good person'; you say 'I have a seonyak at 2 PM.'

Mistake 1: Using 'Seonyak' for Future Promises: Learners often try to use 'seonyak' to mean 'I will make an appointment later.' However, 'seonyak' almost always implies the appointment *already exists* relative to the current conversation. Use '약속을 잡다' for future planning.

Wrong: 우리 내일 선약하자. (Let's make a previous engagement tomorrow.) -> Correct: 우리 내일 약속 잡자.

Wrong: 선약을 지키세요. (Keep your previous engagement - used generally.) -> Correct: 약속을 지키세요. (Keep your promise.)

Mistake 2: Particle Errors: Learners often say '선약이 못 가요' (The previous engagement cannot go). This is grammatically incorrect. It should be '선약 때문에 못 가요' (I cannot go because of the previous engagement).

Wrong: 선약을 있어요. -> Correct: 선약이 있어요.

Wrong: 선약이 취소했어요. -> Correct: 선약이 취소됐어요. (The previous engagement was cancelled.)

Mistake 3: Over-explanation: Westerners often feel the need to explain *what* the engagement is ('I have a doctor's appointment'). In Korean, adding too much detail after saying 'seonyak' can sometimes sound like you're making up an excuse. 'Seonyak' is powerful enough on its own.

Natural: 선약이 있어서 못 갑니다. (Simple and polite.)

Another nuance to avoid is using 'seonyak' for very casual, immediate things. If someone says 'Hey, look at this,' you don't say 'I have a seonyak.' It is specifically for appointments that occupy a block of time. Also, don't confuse 'seonyak' with 'yeyak' (예약). 'Yeyak' is a reservation (like at a restaurant or hotel), while 'seonyak' is a personal engagement or appointment with a person. If you have a dentist appointment, you can call it a 'seonyak' to others, but with the dentist's office, it is a 'yeyak' or 'jinryo yaksok'.

To truly master 선약, you should know its synonyms and related terms to choose the right word for the right level of formality and context. While 'seonyak' is the most common way to say 'prior engagement,' other words might be more appropriate depending on what you are doing.

약속 (Yaksok) vs. 선약 (Seonyak): 'Yaksok' is the broad term for any promise or plan. 'Seonyak' is a subset of 'yaksok' that highlights the fact that it was made *first*. Use 'yaksok' for general plans, 'seonyak' for declining new ones.
예약 (Yeyak): 'Yeyak' refers to a reservation made for a service or a place (restaurant, hotel, flight). You wouldn't say you have a 'yeyak' with a friend; that would be a 'seonyak' or 'yaksok'.

식당 예약을 했어요. (I made a restaurant reservation.) vs. 친구와 선약이 있어요. (I have a prior engagement with a friend.)

급한 용무가 생겼습니다. (Urgent business has arisen.)

일정 (Iljeong): 'Iljeong' means 'schedule' or 'itinerary.' While 'seonyak' is the engagement itself, 'iljeong' refers to the planned timeline. '이미 일정이 꽉 찼어요' (The schedule is already full).

다음 주 일정을 확인해 볼게요. (I will check next week's schedule.)

다른 볼일이 좀 있어서요. (I have some other things to attend to.)

Comparison Table: 1. 선약: Prior engagement (Polite refusal). 2. 약속: General promise/plan. 3. 예약: Reservation (Service-based). 4. 용무: Business/Errands (Formal). 5. 일정: Schedule/Itinerary.

기존 약속을 지키는 것이 도리입니다. (It is the right thing to do to keep existing promises.)

In summary, while 'seonyak' is your go-to for polite refusals, understanding 'yeyak' and 'iljeong' will help you navigate the logistical side of Korean life. Using '용무' or '볼일' can provide variety when you want to sound slightly less specific about whether you are meeting a person or just doing a task. Mastering these distinctions marks the transition from a beginner to an intermediate speaker who understands the subtle social cues of the Korean language.

How Formal Is It?

Wusstest du?

The character 約 (yak) originally depicted a bundle of silk threads tied together, symbolizing the binding nature of a promise.

Aussprachehilfe

UK /sʌn.jak/

US /sʌn.jɑːk/

The stress is balanced, but the 'yak' ends with a sharp, unreleased 'k' sound common in Korean.

Reimt sich auf

만약 (manyak) 제약 (jeyak) 계약 (gyeyak) 조약 (joyak) 서약 (seoyak) 공약 (gongyak) 확약 (hwagyak) 탄약 (tanyak)

Häufige Fehler

Pronouncing it as 'sun-yak' with a long 'u' like 'soon'.
Releasing the final 'k' sound too strongly (it should be an unreleased stop).
Confusing it with 'son-yak' (hand promise).
Misplacing the 'y' sound and saying 'seon-ak'.
Pronouncing 'seon' like 'shun'.

Schwierigkeitsgrad

Lesen 3/5

The Hanja is common but the word itself is straightforward to read.

Schreiben 4/5

Requires knowledge of particles like '이/가' and '때문에'.

Sprechen 3/5

Pronunciation is simple, but social timing is key.

Hören 3/5

Can be heard frequently in dramas and offices.

Was du als Nächstes lernen solltest

Voraussetzungen

약속 (promise) 있다 (to have) 때문에 (because of) 먼저 (first) 오늘 (today)

Als Nächstes lernen

예약 (reservation) 일정 (schedule) 취소 (cancellation) 변경 (change) 우선순위 (priority)

Fortgeschritten

기약 (future promise) 서약 (oath) 확약 (confirmation) 파기 (breaking/destruction)

Wichtige Grammatik

Noun + 때문에 (Because of...)

선약 때문에 바빠요.

Noun + 이/가 있다 (To have...)

선약이 있어요.

Noun + 을/를 하다 (To do/make...)

선약을 했어요.

Noun + (이)라서 (Because it is...)

선약이라서 못 가요.

Honorific -으시다

선약이 있으세요?

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Beispiele nach Niveau

오늘 선약이 있어요.

I have a previous engagement today.

Simple present tense with '있다'.

선약이 있어서 못 가요.

I can't go because I have a previous engagement.

Uses '어서' to show reason.

내일 선약 있어요?

Do you have a previous engagement tomorrow?

Question form with rising intonation.

미안해요, 선약이 있어요.

Sorry, I have a previous engagement.

Standard polite apology.

친구와 선약이 있어요.

I have a previous engagement with a friend.

Uses '와' (with).

주말에 선약이 있어요.

I have a previous engagement on the weekend.

Time particle '에'.

저는 선약이 없습니다.

I do not have a previous engagement.

Negative form '없습니다'.

이미 선약이 있어요.

I already have a previous engagement.

Adverb '이미' (already).

선약 때문에 모임에 못 가요.

I can't go to the meeting because of a previous engagement.

Uses '때문에' (because of).

중요한 선약이 있어요.

I have an important previous engagement.

Adjective '중요한' (important).

선약이 있어서 다음에 만나요.

I have a previous engagement, so let's meet next time.

Future suggestion '만나요'.

점심에 선약이 있으세요?

Do you have a previous engagement for lunch?

Honorific '으세요'.

아까 말한 선약이 뭐예요?

What is the previous engagement you mentioned earlier?

Past tense modifier '말한'.

선약이 있어서 먼저 갈게요.

I have a previous engagement, so I'll leave first.

Future intention '갈게요'.

가족과 선약이 잡혔어요.

A previous engagement with my family was set.

Passive verb '잡히다' (to be caught/set).

선약이 있는지 확인해 볼게요.

I'll check if I have a previous engagement.

Grammar '-는지 확인하다'.

죄송하지만 이미 선약이 되어 있어서 참석이 불가능합니다.

I'm sorry, but since a previous engagement is already made, attendance is impossible.

Formal ending 'ㅂ니다'.

선약 때문에 약속 시간을 변경해야 할 것 같아요.

I think I need to change the appointment time because of a previous engagement.

Grammar '-해야 할 것 같다'.

부장님은 오늘 오후에 선약이 있으십니다.

The department manager has a previous engagement this afternoon.

Subject honorific '으십니다'.

갑작스러운 선약이 생겨서 당황스러워요.

I'm flustered because a previous engagement suddenly came up.

Adjective '당황스럽다'.

선약이 있다고 하셨는데, 취소된 건가요?

You said you had a previous engagement; was it cancelled?

Indirect speech '-고 하다'.

어제 잡은 선약이라 잊어버리면 안 돼요.

It's a previous engagement made yesterday, so you shouldn't forget it.

Grammar '-면 안 되다'.

중요한 선약이 우선이라는 것을 잊지 마세요.

Don't forget that important previous engagements take priority.

Noun clause '-는 것'.

선약이 겹치는 바람에 하나를 취소해야 했어요.

Because the previous engagements overlapped, I had to cancel one.

Grammar '-는 바람에' (unexpected reason).

피치 못할 선약으로 인해 이번 행사에 불참하게 되었습니다.

Due to an unavoidable previous engagement, I have ended up not attending this event.

Formal phrase '피치 못할' (unavoidable).

선약이 있다는 핑계로 모임을 피하는 것 같아요.

It seems like they are avoiding the gathering under the pretext of having a previous engagement.

Noun '핑계' (pretext/excuse).

오래전부터 계획된 선약이라 변경이 매우 어렵습니다.

It's a previous engagement planned from a long time ago, so changing it is very difficult.

Modifier '-ㄴ 것' with '계획되다'.

선약이 있으신 줄 모르고 무리한 부탁을 드렸네요.

I made an unreasonable request not knowing you had a previous engagement.

Grammar '-ㄴ 줄 모르다'.

그분은 선약을 칼같이 지키는 것으로 유명합니다.

That person is famous for keeping previous engagements strictly (like a knife).

Idiom '칼같이 지키다'.

업무상 선약이 많아서 개인적인 시간을 내기 힘듭니다.

I have many work-related previous engagements, so it's hard to make personal time.

Adverbial '업무상' (for work purposes).

선약이 취소되자마자 바로 연락을 주셨더군요.

As soon as the previous engagement was cancelled, you contacted me right away.

Grammar '-자마자'.

비즈니스에서는 선약을 어기는 것이 큰 결례입니다.

In business, breaking a previous engagement is a great discourtesy.

Noun '결례' (discourtesy).

기존의 선약을 파기하고 새로운 제안을 수락하는 것은 상도의에 어긋납니다.

Breaking an existing previous engagement and accepting a new proposal goes against business ethics.

Formal noun '상도의' (business ethics).

선약의 중요성을 간과했다가 큰 낭패를 볼 뻔했습니다.

I almost faced a great failure after overlooking the importance of a previous engagement.

Grammar '-을 뻔했다'.

그의 불참 사유는 늘 그렇듯 '피치 못할 선약'이었습니다.

His reason for absence was, as always, an 'unavoidable previous engagement.'

Quote marks used for emphasis.

선약이 겹칠 경우, 신뢰도가 높은 쪽을 선택하는 것이 일반적입니다.

When previous engagements overlap, it is common to choose the one with higher reliability.

Grammar '-ㄹ 경우'.

선약 이행 여부가 이번 계약의 핵심 쟁점이 될 전망입니다.

Whether the previous engagement is fulfilled is expected to be a key issue in this contract.

Noun '이행 여부' (fulfillment or not).

그는 선약 때문에 영부인의 초대를 정중히 거절했습니다.

He politely declined the First Lady's invitation due to a previous engagement.

Adverb '정중히' (politely/formally).

선약이 있다는 사실을 미리 고지하지 않은 점 사과드립니다.

I apologize for not notifying you in advance about the fact that I had a previous engagement.

Verb '고지하다' (to notify).

사회적 지위가 높을수록 선약의 무게는 더욱 무거워지기 마련입니다.

The higher the social status, the heavier the weight of a previous engagement naturally becomes.

Grammar '-기 마련이다'.

선약의 구속력은 단순한 시간적 우선순위를 넘어 인격의 척도로 작용합니다.

The binding force of a previous engagement acts as a measure of character beyond simple chronological priority.

Noun '구속력' (binding force).

외교적 결례를 피하기 위해 선약을 구실로 내세우는 경우가 허다합니다.

There are numerous cases where a previous engagement is put forward as a pretext to avoid diplomatic discourtesy.

Adjective '허다하다' (to be numerous).

선약이 지닌 도덕적 함의를 심도 있게 고찰해 볼 필요가 있습니다.

It is necessary to deeply consider the moral implications held by a previous engagement.

Noun '함의' (implication).

그는 선약에 대한 집착에 가까운 준수 정신을 보여주었습니다.

He showed a spirit of compliance regarding previous engagements that was close to obsession.

Noun '준수 정신' (spirit of compliance).

선약의 파기는 신뢰 사회의 근간을 흔드는 행위로 간주될 수 있습니다.

The breaking of a previous engagement can be regarded as an act that shakes the foundation of a trust-based society.

Verb '간주되다' (to be regarded as).

선약이 엄존함에도 불구하고 새로운 일정을 강행하는 것은 무리수입니다.

Forcing a new schedule despite the strict existence of a previous engagement is a risky move.

Noun '무리수' (risky move/bad move).

선약의 존재가 협상의 향방을 결정짓는 결정적 변수로 부상했습니다.

The existence of a previous engagement emerged as a decisive variable determining the direction of the negotiation.

Noun '향방' (direction/course).

선약이라는 명분 아래 그는 모든 외부 접촉을 차단한 채 은둔했습니다.

Under the pretext of a previous engagement, he went into seclusion, cutting off all outside contact.

Noun '명분' (pretext/justification).

Synonyme

이전 약속 먼저 한 약속

Häufige Kollokationen

선약이 있다

선약 때문에

선약을 잡다

중요한 선약

선약이 겹치다

선약을 지키다

선약이 되어 있다

피치 못할 선약

선약을 취소하다

선약 여부

Häufige Phrasen

이미 선약이 있어서요.

— I already have a previous engagement. (Polite refusal).

A: 오늘 술 한잔할래? B: 미안, 이미 선약이 있어서요.

선약 때문에 참석이 어렵습니다.

— It is difficult to attend due to a previous engagement.

공문에 '선약 때문에 참석이 어렵습니다'라고 적었다.

선약이 있으신가요?

— Do you have a previous engagement? (Polite inquiry).

이번 주말에 혹시 선약 있으신가요?

선약이 잡혀 있어요.

— A previous engagement has been scheduled/set.

그날은 하루 종일 선약이 잡혀 있어요.

선약이 우선입니다.

— The previous engagement takes priority.

새로운 제안보다 선약이 우선입니다.

선약이 생겼어요.

— A previous engagement has come up.

갑자기 선약이 생겨서 못 가게 됐어.

선약이 되어 있습니다.

— A previous engagement is already in place.

다른 분과 이미 선약이 되어 있습니다.

선약을 어기다.

— To break a previous engagement.

선약을 어기는 것은 예의가 아니에요.

선약이 꽉 차다.

— To be fully booked with previous engagements.

이번 주는 선약이 꽉 차서 시간이 없어요.

선약을 미루다.

— To postpone a previous engagement.

급한 일 때문에 선약을 미뤄야 했어요.

Wird oft verwechselt mit

선약 vs 약속

General promise vs. specific previous engagement.

선약 vs 예약

Reservation for service vs. appointment with a person.

선약 vs 성약

Biblical covenant (entirely different context).

Redewendungen & Ausdrücke

"선약이 칼이다"

— A previous engagement is like a knife (meaning it is absolute and cannot be broken).

그 사람에게 선약은 칼이라 절대 안 늦어요.

Informal/Slangy

"선약 핑계"

— Using a previous engagement as an excuse.

또 선약 핑계를 대고 안 왔어.

Neutral

"선약이 산더미다"

— To have a mountain of previous engagements (very busy).

연말이라 선약이 산더미예요.

Informal

"선약에 묶이다"

— To be tied down by a previous engagement.

선약에 묶여서 어디 가지도 못해요.

Neutral

"선약을 밥 먹듯이 어기다"

— To break previous engagements as easily as eating a meal (habitually).

그는 선약을 밥 먹듯이 어겨서 신용이 없어요.

Informal

"선약이 웬수다"

— The previous engagement is the enemy (regretting having a plan when a better one comes).

오늘 파티가 있다니, 선약이 웬수네.

Informal

"선약이 금이다"

— A previous engagement is like gold (precious and must be kept).

신용 사회에서 선약은 금입니다.

Literary

"선약에 치이다"

— To be run over/overwhelmed by previous engagements.

요즘 선약에 치여서 잠도 못 자요.

Informal

"선약을 발판 삼다"

— To use a previous engagement as a stepping stone (social maneuvering).

그는 선약을 발판 삼아 인맥을 넓혔다.

Neutral

"선약이 대수냐"

— Is a previous engagement such a big deal? (Questioning the importance of a plan).

선약이 대수냐? 그냥 우리랑 놀자.

Informal/Slightly Rude

Leicht verwechselbar

선약 vs 약속 (Yaksok)

Both mean promise/appointment.

Yaksok is general; Seonyak is specifically 'the one I made before this one.'

친구와 약속(Yaksok)을 했지만, 이미 선약(Seonyak)이 있었다.

선약 vs 예약 (Yeyak)

Both involve planning.

Yeyak is for places/services; Seonyak is for people/events.

식당 예약(Yeyak)과 친구 선약(Seonyak)이 겹쳤다.

선약 vs 일정 (Iljeong)

Both relate to time.

Iljeong is the whole schedule; Seonyak is one specific item on it.

내 일정(Iljeong)에는 이미 선약(Seonyak)이 포함되어 있다.

선약 vs 용무 (Yongmu)

Both are reasons to be busy.

Yongmu is 'business to do'; Seonyak is 'a promise to be somewhere.'

급한 용무(Yongmu)가 있어서 선약(Seonyak)을 취소했다.

선약 vs 볼일 (Bol-il)

Both are vague excuses.

Bol-il is more casual and can mean errands; Seonyak is more formal.

볼일(Bol-il) 보러 가는 길에 선약(Seonyak) 장소에 들렀다.

Satzmuster

[Time]에 선약이 있어요.

오늘 저녁에 선약이 있어요.

선약 때문에 [Action] 못 해요.

선약 때문에 공부 못 해요.

이미 선약이 되어 있어서 [Result].

이미 선약이 되어 있어서 참석이 어렵습니다.

피치 못할 선약으로 인해 [Result].

피치 못할 선약으로 인해 불참하게 되었습니다.

선약이 겹치는 바람에 [Result].

선약이 겹치는 바람에 일정을 조정해야 했습니다.

선약의 구속력을 고려할 때 [Opinion].

선약의 구속력을 고려할 때 이번 결정은 신중해야 합니다.

A1-C2

혹시 [Time]에 선약 있으세요?

혹시 내일 오후에 선약 있으세요?

B1-C2

선약이 생겨서 [Action].

선약이 생겨서 먼저 실례하겠습니다.

Wortfamilie

Substantive

약속 (promise)

예약 (reservation)

계약 (contract)

서약 (oath/vow)

Verben

약속하다 (to promise)

예약하다 (to reserve)

계약하다 (to contract)

Verwandt

먼저 (first)

이전 (previous)

우선 (priority)

일정 (schedule)

신용 (trust/credit)

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So verwendest du es

frequency

Very common in both spoken and written Korean.

Häufige Fehler

선약을 있어요. → 선약이 있어요.
With the verb '있다' (to have/exist), you must use the subject particle '이/가', not the object particle '을/를'.
우리 내일 선약하자. → 우리 내일 약속 잡자.
You don't 'make a previous engagement' for the future in this way. 'Seonyak' refers to a plan that *already* exists.
선약이 못 가요. → 선약 때문에 못 가요.
The 'seonyak' isn't the one going; you are the one who cannot go *because* of it.
나의 선약이 있어요. → 선약이 있어요.
Korean often drops possessive pronouns like 'my' when it's obvious from the context. '나의' sounds unnatural here.
식당 선약이 있어요. → 식당 예약이 있어요.
For businesses or services, use '예약' (reservation), not '선약'.

Tipps

Honoring the First Promise

In Korea, the 'first' promise is sacred. Breaking it for a 'better' offer is a major social faux pas.

Subject Particle

Always use '이/가' with '있다/없다'. Never say '선약을 있어요'.

Less is More

You don't need to explain what your 'seonyak' is. The word itself is a complete and valid excuse.

Professional Refusal

Use '선약' in business emails to decline meetings politely. It sounds much better than 'I'm busy'.

Hanja Power

Remember 'Seon' (先) means 'Before'. This will help you understand words like 'Seonsaengnim' (Teacher - one who was born before).

The 'Shield' Word

Use 'seonyak' when you want to set a boundary without being confrontational.

Detecting Polite 'No'

If someone says 'seonyak' immediately after you invite them, they are likely not interested or truly busy. Don't push.

Email Etiquette

Pair 'seonyak' with '양해 부탁드립니다' (I ask for your understanding) for a perfect formal apology.

Seonyak vs. Yeyak

People are 'seonyak'; Places are 'yeyak'. Use them correctly to sound like a pro.

Priority Rule

Associate 'Seonyak' with 'Priority'. The first one in the calendar wins!

Einprägen

Eselsbrücke

Think of 'Sun' (Seon) rising 'First' and then you 'Yak' (talk/promise) to someone. The first promise is the Seonyak.

Visuelle Assoziation

Imagine a calendar where the 1st entry of the day is glowing gold. That is your 'Seon' (first) 'Yak' (promise).

Word Web

Priority Commitment Schedule Politeness Integrity Time Hanja Refusal

Herausforderung

Try to decline three imaginary invitations today using the phrase '선약이 있어서요' and notice how it feels more professional than 'I'm busy.'

Wortherkunft

Derived from Hanja (Sino-Korean characters). 先 (선) means 'before' or 'first' and 約 (약) means 'promise' or 'agreement.'

Ursprüngliche Bedeutung: A promise made beforehand.

Sino-Korean

Kultureller Kontext

Never tell someone their 'seonyak' is unimportant. This is considered a major insult to their character and their relationship with the other person.

In English, we might say 'I have a prior engagement,' but it sounds very formal. In Korean, 'seonyak' is used in much more common, everyday situations.

The movie 'Architecture 101' deals with promises made in the past. Many K-Dramas use 'seonyak' as a plot device to keep lovers apart. Korean business etiquette manuals always emphasize the importance of 'seonyak'.

Im Alltag üben

Kontexte aus dem Alltag

Rejecting a dinner invitation

선약이 있어서요.
이미 선약이 잡혀 있습니다.
다음에 꼭 봐요, 선약이 있어요.
죄송하지만 선약 때문에요.

At work

부장님, 오늘 선약이 있으십니까?
업무상 선약이 많습니다.
선약 때문에 회의 시간을 옮겨야 합니다.
선약이 우선이라 참석 못 합니다.

Making plans

그날 선약 없으시죠?
선약이 있는지 확인해 볼게요.
선약이 생기면 말씀해 주세요.
선약을 미리 잡아두는 게 좋겠어요.

Customer Service

이미 선약이 꽉 찼습니다.
선약 고객님이 계셔서 기다리셔야 합니다.
선약 없이 오시면 곤란합니다.
선약 내역을 확인해 드리겠습니다.

Social Etiquette

선약을 지키는 것은 중요합니다.
선약 핑계 대지 마세요.
선약이 겹쳐서 미안해요.
선약을 취소하는 건 예의가 아니에요.

Gesprächseinstiege

"이번 주말에 특별한 선약 있으세요?"

"선약 때문에 곤란했던 적이 있나요?"

"중요한 선약이 생기면 어떻게 하시나요?"

"친구와 선약이 겹치면 누구를 먼저 만나나요?"

"선약을 가장 잘 지키는 친구는 누구인가요?"

Tagebuch-Impulse

오늘 있었던 선약에 대해 써보세요. 누구와 무엇을 했나요?

선약 때문에 중요한 기회를 놓친 적이 있나요? 그때의 기분을 설명하세요.

나에게 '선약'이란 어떤 의미인가요? (신뢰, 책임감 등)

만약 대통령과 선약이 있다면, 당신은 어떤 준비를 할 것인가요?

선약을 어기는 사람들에 대해 어떻게 생각하는지 논해보세요.

Häufig gestellte Fragen

10 Fragen

Yes, you can use 'seonyak' when telling others you are busy. However, when talking to the dentist's office, you would use 'yeyak' (reservation) or 'jinryo yaksok' (medical appointment).

Not exclusively, but it is more formal than 'yaksok.' You can use it with friends to sound more firm or respectful about your previous plans.

Think of 'seonyak' as 'Prior Appointment' and 'yaksok' as 'Appointment.' You use 'seonyak' to emphasize that you were already busy before someone asked you.

You say '선약이 없어요' (Seonyaki eopseoyo).

No, it is a noun. You must use it with verbs like '하다' (to do), '있다' (to have), or '잡다' (to set).

In Korea, it is actually the least rude way to say no. It implies you have a valid commitment that you must honor.

Usually, yes. It implies a social or professional commitment to another party.

Technically no. It usually involves another person. For personal tasks, use '볼일' (bol-il).

先 (Seon - First) and 約 (Yak - Promise).

You can ask, '혹시 선약 있으세요?' (Do you happen to have a previous engagement?)

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