The word '교문' (gyo-mun) means 'school gate.' Imagine the big entrance you walk through when you go to school. '교' means school and '문' means door or gate. You can use it to say where you are. For example, 'I am at the school gate' is '저는 교문에 있어요.' It is a very useful word because schools are important places. You will see this word on signs near schools. When you go to school in the morning, you pass the '교문.' When you go home, you leave the '교문.' It is a simple noun. You don't need to change it much. Just add particles like '에' (at) or '을' (object).
At the A2 level, you should know that '교문' is a compound word. '교' comes from '학교' (school) and '문' means 'gate.' You will often use this word when making plans with friends. For example, 'Let's meet in front of the school gate' is '교문 앞에서 만나요.' In Korea, the school gate is a very common meeting spot. You should also know the difference between '교문' and '현관' (the building entrance). '교문' is the outside gate. You might also hear '정문' (main gate) which is often the same as the '교문.' Using this word correctly shows you understand specific Korean vocabulary for daily life.
For B1 learners, '교문' takes on more descriptive and functional roles. You might describe the state of the gate: '교문이 닫혀 있다' (the gate is closed) or '교문이 열려 있다' (the gate is open). It is also important in the context of school rules. In Korea, teachers often stand at the '교문' to check if students are wearing their uniforms correctly. This is called '교문 지도' (gate guidance). You might also use it in more complex sentences like '교문을 통과하자마자 운동장이 보여요' (As soon as you pass the school gate, you can see the playground). Knowing this word helps you talk about school experiences and routines more naturally.
At the B2 level, '교문' is recognized as a symbolic boundary. It represents the start and end of a student's day and, more broadly, their youth. You might encounter this word in literature or news reports. For example, '교문을 나서다' is a common idiom for graduating or finishing a stage of life. It’s also used in social contexts, such as discussing '스쿨존' (School Zones) and traffic safety around the '교문.' You should be able to use '교문' in formal writing, such as an essay about your childhood or a report on education. You might also discuss the '정문' (main gate) vs. '후문' (back gate) to show more specific spatial awareness.
C1 learners should understand the historical and cultural nuances of '교문.' Historically, the school gates of major universities in Seoul were sites of significant political protests. The '교문' was a symbol of the barrier between the academic world and the political reality of the country. In modern discourse, '교문' might appear in discussions about the 'closing of school gates' due to declining birth rates and school closures. You should be able to use the word in metaphorical senses, such as 'the gate to a new future.' You should also be comfortable with related Hanja terms like '개문' (opening the gate) or '폐문' (closing the gate) in an academic or administrative context.
At the C2 level, '교문' is a word you can use with full mastery of its various connotations. You understand its role in the collective memory of Koreans—evoking nostalgia, discipline, and the intensity of the education system. You can use it in high-level academic discussions about 'campus culture' or 'educational infrastructure.' You might analyze the architectural significance of '교문' in different eras of Korean history. You are also aware of how the word functions in idiomatic expressions and can use it creatively in literature or professional journalism. The '교문' is not just a gate; it is a cultural icon that signifies the high value placed on education in Korean society.

교문 in 30 Sekunden

  • 교문 means school gate, combining 'school' (교) and 'gate' (문).
  • It is a major landmark for meeting friends and a symbolic boundary for students.
  • Commonly used in contexts of arriving at school, graduating, or campus security.
  • Distinct from '현관' (building entrance) and '정문' (general main gate).

The Korean word 교문 (Gyomun) is a compound noun derived from Sino-Korean characters: 교 (校), meaning 'school,' and 문 (門), meaning 'gate.' In its most literal sense, it refers to the physical structure that marks the entrance and exit of a school campus. However, in the context of Korean society, the 교문 represents far more than just bricks and iron. It is a threshold of transition, a place of discipline, and a symbol of one's academic journey. For students in South Korea, passing through the 교문 signifies the start of a rigorous daily routine, often beginning early in the morning and ending late at night. It is the boundary between the private world of home and the public, structured world of education.

Physical Appearance
Most Korean school gates are large, imposing structures often flanked by stone pillars that display the school's name in calligraphy. They are designed to be sturdy and formal, reflecting the importance of the institution.
Symbolic Weight
The gate symbolizes the 'entrance' to adulthood and societal success. In many Korean dramas and films, the image of a student standing before the gate captures feelings of anxiety, hope, or rebellion.

지각하지 않으려면 8시까지 교문을 통과해야 해요. (To not be late, you must pass through the school gate by 8 o'clock.)

Historically, the 교문 has also been a site of social and political significance. During periods of student activism in Korea, the school gates were often the front lines of protests, where students would gather to demand democratic reforms. Thus, the word carries a historical weight of resistance and collective voice. Even in modern times, during the Suneung (CSAT) exam day, the 교문 is where junior students gather to cheer for their seniors with banners and snacks, creating a high-energy atmosphere that is uniquely Korean. Whether it is the tearful departure on graduation day or the nervous arrival on the first day of the semester, the 교문 remains a central landmark in the life of every Korean citizen.

Usage in Media
You will frequently see the word in news reports regarding school safety, entrance exam statistics, or in nostalgic literature describing childhood memories.

졸업식 날, 친구들과 교문 앞에서 사진을 찍었습니다. (On graduation day, I took pictures with my friends in front of the school gate.)

Using the word 교문 in a sentence requires an understanding of its role as a physical location and a symbolic boundary. It is most commonly used with verbs of movement, such as 'to enter' (들어오다/들어가다), 'to pass' (통과하다), or 'to leave' (나가다/나서다). Because it refers to a specific place, it is frequently followed by the location particles -에 (at/to) or -에서 (at/from).

Common Verb Pairings
1. 교문을 통과하다 (To pass through the gate)
2. 교문 앞에 서다 (To stand in front of the gate)
3. 교문을 나서다 (To leave the gate/school)

선생님께서 교문에서 학생들을 맞이하고 계십니다. (The teacher is greeting students at the school gate.)

When describing the location of a shop or a meeting point, 교문 is an essential landmark. For example, 'The stationery store is right in front of the school gate' (문구점은 교문 바로 앞에 있어요). It helps specify which entrance is being discussed, especially in larger universities that might have a 정문 (main gate), 후문 (back gate), and 옆문 (side gate). In these cases, 교문 acts as the general category, while the specific names provide clarity.

교문이 굳게 닫혀 있어서 들어갈 수 없었습니다. (The school gate was firmly closed, so I couldn't enter.)

In more literary or poetic contexts, 'leaving the school gate' (교문을 나서다) is a common metaphor for finishing one's education and entering society. It evokes a sense of moving from a protected environment into the 'real world.' Conversely, 'entering the school gate' (교문에 들어서다) can signify the beginning of a new academic challenge or the start of one's youth.

Contextual Nuance
In casual conversation, students might shorten phrases. Instead of saying 'Let's meet at the school gate,' they might simply say '교문 앞!' (In front of the gate!).

The word 교문 is ubiquitous in any setting related to education in Korea. If you are watching a 'School' series K-drama (like School 2017 or Extraordinary You), you will hear this word in almost every episode. It is the setting for dramatic confrontations, romantic meet-ups, and the daily grind of student life. For instance, a character might say, 'I'll wait for you at the school gate' (교문 앞에서 기다릴게).

드라마에서 주인공이 교문을 뛰어가는 장면이 자주 나옵니다. (Scenes of the protagonist running through the school gate frequently appear in dramas.)

In real life, you will hear it over school PA systems. Announcements like 'Students should not gather near the school gate after school' (방과 후에 교문 근처에 모이지 마세요) are common. Parents also use this word frequently when coordinating pickups: 'I'm parked near the school gate' (교문 근처에 주차했어). Furthermore, during the annual College Scholastic Ability Test (CSAT), news reporters will broadcast live from the 교문 of various high schools, describing the atmosphere as students enter the 'battleground' of the exam.

In academic or administrative contexts, the word appears in documents regarding campus security or facility management. For example, a notice might read, 'The school gate will be locked at 10 PM' (교문은 오후 10시에 폐쇄됩니다). It is also a key term in traffic safety discussions, as 'School Zones' (스쿨존) usually begin or center around the 교문 to protect children from passing vehicles. If you walk around a Korean neighborhood in the morning, you might hear crossing guards directing traffic and telling children to 'Walk quickly through the gate' (교문으로 빨리 들어가렴).

News Context
Reporters often use the phrase '교문이 열리다' (the school gate opens) to announce the start of a new semester after a long break or strike.

One of the most common mistakes English speakers make is using the general word for 'gate' ( or 대문) when referring specifically to a school entrance. While means 'door' or 'gate' in a general sense, and 대문 usually refers to the main gate of a traditional house or a large mansion, 교문 is the only appropriate term for a school. Using 학교 문 (school's door) is grammatically possible but sounds unnatural and childish compared to the formal compound 교문.

Incorrect: 학교 문 앞에서 만나요.
Correct: 교문 앞에서 만나요. (Let's meet in front of the school gate.)

Another mistake is confusing 교문 with 현관 (entrance hall/foyer). The 교문 is the outdoor gate at the perimeter of the school grounds. The 현관 is the actual door to the building where students take off their outdoor shoes and put on indoor slippers. If you tell someone to meet you at the 교문, they will wait outside by the street; if you say 현관, they will wait at the building's entrance.

Learners also sometimes struggle with the distinction between 교문 and 정문. While 교문 specifically means 'school gate,' 정문 means 'main gate' (of any building). At a school, the 교문 is usually the 정문, but if a school has multiple gates, you might need to specify 후문 (back gate). Calling the back gate a 교문 is still correct, but it might be less specific than necessary in a large university setting.

Pronunciation Pitfall
Ensure you pronounce the 'gyo' clearly. If it sounds like 'go', it might be misunderstood as '고문' (torture), which would lead to a very confusing and dark sentence!

To broaden your vocabulary, it is helpful to compare 교문 with other types of gates and entrances. In Korea, the specific type of gate often dictates the word used, reflecting the hierarchical and organized nature of the language. Below are the most common alternatives and related terms.

정문 (Jeongmun)
Meaning 'Main Gate.' This is used for schools, companies, and government buildings. If a school has only one gate, people often use '교문' and '정문' interchangeably.
후문 (Humun)
Meaning 'Back Gate.' Students often use the back gate if it is closer to the subway station or their favorite snack shops (분식집).
현관 (Hyeongwan)
Meaning 'Entrance/Foyer.' This refers to the entrance of the building itself, not the outer perimeter gate.

우리 학교는 교문이 세 개나 있어요. 정문, 후문, 그리고 옆문이죠. (Our school has three gates: the main gate, the back gate, and the side gate.)

Another related term is 성문 (Seongmun), which refers to a castle gate, or 대문 (Daemun), which is a large gate for a private residence. While these all mean 'gate,' they are never used for schools. If you want to sound more poetic, you might hear the term 배움의 문 (the gate of learning), which is a metaphorical way to refer to the 교문.

In some modern contexts, especially in large university campuses, you might hear people refer to specific gates by nearby landmarks, like 'The Library Gate' or 'The Station Gate.' However, in official announcements, 교문 remains the standard term. Understanding these distinctions helps you navigate Korean physical spaces more effectively and communicate your location with precision.

How Formal Is It?

Wusstest du?

In ancient times, school gates in Korea (like at Sungkyunkwan) were often built in a specific architectural style to signify the prestige of the scholars within. The word has remained remarkably consistent in meaning throughout Korean history.

Aussprachehilfe

UK /ɡjo.mun/
US /ɡjoʊ.mun/
The stress is balanced, but slightly more emphasis is often placed on the first syllable '교'.
Reimt sich auf
고문 (Gomun - torture/advisor) 부문 (Bumun - sector) 소문 (Somun - rumor) 주문 (Jumun - order) 방문 (Bangmun - visit) 창문 (Changmun - window) 질문 (Jilmun - question) 학문 (Hangmun - learning)
Häufige Fehler
  • Pronouncing 'gyo' as 'go' (sounds like 'torture').
  • Pronouncing 'mun' as 'man' (sounds like 'school door' but incorrect vowel).
  • Separating 'gy' and 'o' too much (should be a glide).
  • Over-aspirating the 'g' so it sounds like 'kyo'.
  • Making the 'u' in 'mun' too long like 'moooooon'.

Schwierigkeitsgrad

Lesen 2/5

The Hanja characters are simple and the word is common.

Schreiben 2/5

Spelling is straightforward with no complex batchim.

Sprechen 1/5

Pronunciation is very close to its spelling.

Hören 2/5

Easy to recognize in context.

Was du als Nächstes lernen solltest

Voraussetzungen

학교 (School) 문 (Gate/Door) 앞 (Front) 가다 (To go)

Als Nächstes lernen

운동장 (Playground) 교실 (Classroom) 등교 (Going to school) 하교 (Leaving school)

Fortgeschritten

정문 (Main gate) 후문 (Back gate) 현관 (Entrance) 수위실 (Security office)

Wichtige Grammatik

Location particle -에

교문에 있어요.

Action location particle -에서

교문에서 만나요.

Direction particle -으로

교문으로 오세요.

Object particle -을/를

교문을 봐요.

Subject particle -이/가

교문이 커요.

Beispiele nach Niveau

1

교문이 커요.

The school gate is big.

Subject particle -이 is used with 교문.

2

교문 앞에 있어요.

I am in front of the school gate.

앞에 means 'in front of'.

3

교문으로 가요.

I am going to the school gate.

-으로 indicates direction.

4

이것은 교문입니다.

This is the school gate.

Formal ending -입니다.

5

교문이 어디예요?

Where is the school gate?

Asking for location.

6

교문을 봐요.

Look at the school gate.

Object particle -를 is used.

7

교문이 예뻐요.

The school gate is pretty.

Describing the noun.

8

교문에 가요.

I go to the school gate.

-에 indicates destination.

1

교문 앞에서 만날까요?

Shall we meet in front of the school gate?

-ㄹ까요? is used for suggestions.

2

교문이 닫혀 있어요.

The school gate is closed.

-아/어 있다 describes a state.

3

교문을 지나서 가세요.

Please go past the school gate.

-아/어서 for sequential actions.

4

교문 근처에 편의점이 있어요.

There is a convenience store near the school gate.

근처에 means 'near'.

5

매일 교문을 통과해요.

I pass through the school gate every day.

통과하다 means 'to pass through'.

6

교문이 아주 높아요.

The school gate is very high.

Adverb 아주 (very).

7

교문 옆에 나무가 있어요.

There is a tree next to the school gate.

옆에 means 'beside'.

8

교문을 열어 주세요.

Please open the school gate.

-아/어 주세요 for requests.

1

교문에 도착하면 전화해 줘.

Call me when you arrive at the school gate.

-면 means 'when' or 'if'.

2

교문에서 선생님을 만났어요.

I met the teacher at the school gate.

-에서 indicates the location of an action.

3

우리 학교 교문은 정말 멋있어요.

Our school gate is really cool.

멋있어요 (cool/stylish).

4

지각해서 교문이 벌써 닫혔어요.

Because I was late, the school gate was already closed.

Passive form 닫혔다.

5

교문 앞에 차를 세우지 마세요.

Please do not park your car in front of the school gate.

-지 마세요 (don't do...).

6

교문을 새로 칠했어요.

They repainted the school gate.

새로 means 'newly'.

7

교문 쪽으로 뛰어갔어요.

I ran toward the school gate.

쪽으로 means 'in the direction of'.

8

교문이 열리기를 기다리고 있어요.

I am waiting for the school gate to open.

-기(를) 기다리다 (wait for something to happen).

1

교문에서 등교 지도를 하는 선생님들이 계십니다.

There are teachers providing guidance at the gate during school arrival.

등교 지도 (school arrival guidance).

2

교문을 나서는 순간 해방감이 느껴졌어요.

The moment I left the school gate, I felt a sense of liberation.

-는 순간 (the moment...).

3

학교 축제 기간에는 교문을 화려하게 장식합니다.

During the school festival, the school gate is decorated colorfully.

장식하다 (to decorate).

4

교문 출입이 엄격하게 통제되고 있습니다.

Access through the school gate is being strictly controlled.

엄격하게 (strictly).

5

졸업생들이 교문 앞에서 기념사진을 찍고 있어요.

Graduates are taking commemorative photos in front of the school gate.

기념사진 (commemorative photo).

6

교문 근처는 항상 교통이 혼잡하니까 조심해.

The area near the school gate is always crowded with traffic, so be careful.

혼잡하다 (to be crowded/congested).

7

교문의 현판에 학교 이름이 적혀 있습니다.

The school's name is written on the plaque of the school gate.

현판 (plaque).

8

새벽부터 교문 앞에 응원단이 모였습니다.

Cheering squads gathered in front of the school gate since dawn.

새벽부터 (since dawn).

1

교문은 상아탑으로 들어가는 첫 번째 관문입니다.

The school gate is the first gateway into the ivory tower.

상아탑 (ivory tower - academic world).

2

그 학교의 교문은 전통적인 한옥 양식으로 지어졌습니다.

That school's gate was built in a traditional Hanok style.

양식 (style/form).

3

교문을 통과하는 학생들의 표정에서 긴장감이 느껴진다.

Tension can be felt in the expressions of the students passing through the school gate.

표정 (facial expression).

4

교문 폐쇄 결정에 대해 학생들의 반발이 거셉니다.

Student opposition to the decision to close the school gate is fierce.

반발 (opposition/backlash).

5

수능 날, 교문 앞은 후배들의 뜨거운 열기로 가득 찼다.

On the day of the CSAT, the front of the school gate was filled with the heat of the juniors' cheers.

열기 (heat/enthusiasm).

6

교문을 중심으로 스쿨존 안전 대책이 강화되었습니다.

Safety measures for school zones have been strengthened around the school gate.

중심으로 (centering around).

7

그는 20년 만에 모교의 교문을 다시 밟았다.

He stepped through the gate of his alma mater again after 20 years.

모교 (alma mater).

8

교문 설계에 학생들의 아이디어가 반영되었습니다.

Students' ideas were reflected in the design of the school gate.

반영되다 (to be reflected).

1

교문은 단순한 경계가 아니라, 배움의 전당으로 향하는 성스러운 문이다.

The school gate is not just a boundary, but a sacred door toward the hall of learning.

전당 (hall/temple).

2

역사의 소용돌이 속에서 대학의 교문은 민주화 운동의 상징적 장소였다.

In the vortex of history, university school gates were symbolic sites of democratization movements.

소용돌이 (vortex/whirlpool).

3

교문을 나서는 졸업생들의 뒷모습에서 묘한 설렘과 아쉬움이 교차한다.

In the backs of the graduates leaving the school gate, a strange mix of excitement and regret intersects.

교차하다 (to intersect/cross).

4

학령인구 감소로 인해 교문이 굳게 닫힌 폐교들이 늘어나고 있다.

Due to the decrease in the school-age population, the number of closed schools with firmly shut gates is increasing.

학령인구 (school-age population).

5

교문 설계의 미학은 그 학교가 지향하는 교육 철학을 담고 있어야 한다.

The aesthetics of school gate design should contain the educational philosophy that the school aims for.

지향하다 (to aim for/aspire to).

6

교문 앞의 번잡함은 활기찬 학교 생활의 이면을 보여준다.

The bustle in front of the school gate shows the other side of a vibrant school life.

이면 (the other side/hidden side).

7

권위주의 시대의 교문은 통제와 억압의 공간으로 기억되기도 한다.

School gates in the authoritarian era are sometimes remembered as spaces of control and oppression.

권위주의 (authoritarianism).

8

교문을 통과하는 찰나의 순간이 학생들에게는 매일의 의식과도 같다.

The fleeting moment of passing through the school gate is like a daily ritual for students.

찰나 (moment/instant).

Häufige Kollokationen

교문을 통과하다
교문 앞에 서다
교문을 나서다
교문이 닫히다
교문 지도
교문 근처
교문을 열다
교문 현판
교문 설계
교문 폐쇄

Häufige Phrasen

교문 앞에서 봐

— See you in front of the school gate. A very common way to set a meeting point.

수업 끝나고 교문 앞에서 봐!

교문을 통과하는 게 꿈이다

— It is my dream to pass through the school gate. Often used regarding elite universities.

그 대학교 교문을 통과하는 게 제 꿈이에요.

교문이 닳도록

— Until the school gate wears out. Doing something very frequently (like visiting).

그는 교문이 닳도록 학교를 드나들었다.

교문만 나서면

— As soon as I leave the school gate. Usually refers to feeling free after school.

교문만 나서면 기분이 좋아져요.

교문 밖은 위험해

— It's dangerous outside the school gate. A playful warning to students.

선생님은 항상 교문 밖은 위험하다고 하셨어.

교문에 들어서다

— To enter the school gate. Often used to mark a new beginning.

신입생들이 설레는 마음으로 교문에 들어섰다.

교문을 지키다

— To guard the school gate. Refers to security guards or teachers on duty.

경비 아저씨가 밤새 교문을 지키십니다.

교문을 폐쇄하다

— To close/block the school gate. Used during holidays or protests.

학교 측은 안전을 위해 교문을 폐쇄했다.

교문이 열리다

— The school gate opens. Can mean the literal opening or the start of a semester.

드디어 개학 날 교문이 열렸다.

교문 앞에서 응원하다

— To cheer in front of the school gate. Specific to exam days.

후배들이 교문 앞에서 선배들을 응원했다.

Wird oft verwechselt mit

교문 vs 고문

Spelled similarly, but means 'torture' or 'advisor'. The vowel difference is crucial.

교문 vs 현관

Refers to the building entrance, whereas 교문 is the outer gate.

교문 vs 대문

Refers to a large gate of a house, not a school.

Redewendungen & Ausdrücke

"교문을 나서다"

— To graduate or finish one's studies. It marks the transition from student to society member.

그는 오늘 정든 교문을 나섰다.

Literary
"교문 턱이 닳다"

— To visit a school very frequently. Often used for parents or devoted teachers.

어머니는 교문 턱이 닳도록 학교를 찾아오셨다.

Metaphorical
"교문을 두드리다"

— To apply for admission to a school. Literally 'to knock on the school gate'.

많은 인재들이 우리 대학의 교문을 두드리고 있다.

Formal
"교문 정치를 하다"

— To engage in political activities or protests at the school entrance.

학생들이 교문 정치를 통해 목소리를 냈다.

Historical/Political
"교문이 가로막히다"

— To be barred from entering school, often due to suspension or external factors.

가난 때문에 그의 교문이 가로막혔다.

Literary
"교문 밖의 세상"

— The world outside of school (society). Refers to the 'real world'.

교문 밖의 세상은 생각보다 냉혹하다.

Metaphorical
"교문에서 쫓겨나다"

— To be expelled or forced to leave school.

그는 잘못을 저질러 교문에서 쫓겨났다.

Neutral
"교문 문턱을 넘다"

— To successfully enter a school (be admitted).

드디어 꿈에 그리던 대학교의 교문 문턱을 넘었다.

Idiomatic
"교문이 좁다"

— To have a very high competition rate for admission. 'The gate is narrow'.

명문대일수록 교문이 좁다.

Common
"교문을 걸어 잠그다"

— To lock the gate firmly. Can imply isolation or end of an era.

폐교가 결정되자 교문을 걸어 잠갔다.

Descriptive

Leicht verwechselbar

교문 vs 정문

Both mean 'main gate'.

정문 is general (banks, offices, schools); 교문 is specific to schools. At a school, they are usually the same thing.

은행 정문으로 오세요. (Correct) / 은행 교문으로 오세요. (Incorrect)

교문 vs 후문

Both are gates.

교문 is the general word for any school gate, but often implies the main one. 후문 is specifically the back gate.

교문(정문)은 막혔으니 후문으로 가자.

교문 vs 옆문

Both are gates.

옆문 is a side gate.

교문 옆에 작은 옆문이 있어요.

교문 vs 성문

Both mean gate.

성문 is a castle gate (historical).

남대문은 성문입니다.

교문 vs 창문

Ends in '문'.

창문 means window.

교실 창문을 열어요.

Satzmuster

A1

[N]이/가 [Adj]아요/어요.

교문이 커요.

A2

[N] 앞에서 만나요.

교문 앞에서 만나요.

B1

[N]을/를 통과하다.

교문을 통과해요.

B2

[N]을/를 나서다.

교문을 나서다.

C1

[N]을/를 중심으로...

교문을 중심으로 스쿨존이 있어요.

C2

[N]은/는 ...의 상징이다.

교문은 자유의 상징이다.

A2

[N] 근처에 [N]이/가 있어요.

교문 근처에 편의점이 있어요.

B1

[N]이/가 닫히다/열리다.

교문이 닫혔어요.

Wortfamilie

Substantive

학교 (School)
정문 (Main gate)
후문 (Back gate)
대문 (Large gate)

Verben

입학하다 (To enter school)
졸업하다 (To graduate)
등교하다 (To go to school)
하교하다 (To leave school)

Verwandt

경비실 (Security office)
운동장 (Playground)
교실 (Classroom)
등굣길 (Path to school)
문구점 (Stationery store)

So verwendest du es

frequency

Very High in educational contexts; Low in general business or home contexts.

Häufige Fehler
  • Using '대문' for school. 교문

    '대문' is for houses. Even if the school gate is big, '교문' is the correct term.

  • Using '현관' to mean the outer gate. 교문

    '현관' is the entrance to the building itself. If you wait at the '현관', your friend waiting at the '교문' will never find you.

  • Spelling it as '고문'. 교문

    '고문' means torture. Saying 'I am at the torture' (고문에 있어요) instead of 'I am at the school gate' (교문에 있어요) is a big mistake!

  • Using '학교 문' in formal writing. 교문

    '학교 문' is too informal and sounds like a translation from English. '교문' is the standard noun.

  • Confusing '교문' with '교실'. 교문

    '교실' is the classroom. One is outside, one is inside.

Tipps

Learn the Hanja

Learning '교' (School) and '문' (Gate) will help you understand dozens of other Korean words like '교실' (classroom) and '창문' (window).

Graduation Photos

If you visit a Korean school during graduation, notice how everyone queues up to take a photo at the 교문. It's the most important photo spot!

Meeting Spot

If you are meeting a Korean friend at a school, always specify which gate. Say '교문 정문' or '교문 후문' to avoid getting lost.

Particle Usage

Use '교문에서' if you are doing an action there (like meeting someone) and '교문에' if you are just describing being there.

School Zones

In Korea, the area around the '교문' is a strict 'School Zone'. Fines for speeding or parking there are very high.

Don't say '학교 문'

While '학교 문' makes sense, '교문' is much more natural and makes you sound like a more advanced speaker.

Short 'u'

Keep the 'u' sound in 'mun' short. Don't let it stretch out too much like in English.

K-Drama Watch

Watch for the '교문' in high school dramas. It's often where the 'cool' characters hang out or where the 'bad' characters get caught.

University Context

At universities, the '교문' is often a beautiful piece of architecture. It's worth visiting just to see the gate!

Gyo-Moon

Imagine a school on the moon. The 'Gyo' (School) has a 'Moon' (Gate). Gyo-mun!

Einprägen

Eselsbrücke

Think of 'Gyo' as 'Go to school' and 'Mun' as 'Moon-shaped gate'. You 'Go to school' through the 'Moon gate'.

Visuelle Assoziation

Visualize a large stone gate with a sign that says 'SCHOOL' in big letters. See yourself walking through it every morning.

Word Web

학교 (School) 문 (Gate) 정문 (Main gate) 후문 (Back gate) 등교 (Going to school) 하교 (Leaving school) 경비 (Security) 지각 (Being late)

Herausforderung

Try to use the word '교문' in three different sentences today: one about meeting a friend, one about a physical description, and one about time.

Wortherkunft

Sino-Korean (Hanja). Derived from the characters 校 (교 - School) and 門 (문 - Gate). This combination has been used for centuries across East Asia to denote the entrance of an educational institution.

Ursprüngliche Bedeutung: The gate of a school or academy.

Sino-Korean

Kultureller Kontext

None. The word is completely neutral and safe to use in all contexts.

In many English-speaking countries, school gates are just functional fences. In Korea, they are often grander and hold more symbolic weight.

The movie 'Whispering Corridors' features eerie scenes at a school gate. The 'School' drama series (KBS) frequently uses the gate as a plot device. News reports every November showing students entering the gate for the Suneung.

Im Alltag üben

Kontexte aus dem Alltag

Meeting someone

  • 교문 앞에서 봐요.
  • 교문 근처에 있어요.
  • 교문으로 오세요.
  • 교문에서 기다릴게요.

School rules

  • 교문이 닫혔어요.
  • 교문 지도를 받아요.
  • 교문을 통과하세요.
  • 교문 출입 금지입니다.

Giving directions

  • 교문을 지나가세요.
  • 교문 옆에 있어요.
  • 교문 오른쪽입니다.
  • 교문 건너편이에요.

Graduation/Events

  • 교문에서 사진 찍자.
  • 교문을 나서다.
  • 교문이 화려해요.
  • 교문 응원.

News/Safety

  • 교문 앞 사고.
  • 교문 폐쇄 결정.
  • 교문 보안 강화.
  • 교문 앞 스쿨존.

Gesprächseinstiege

"우리 학교 교문은 어디에 있어요?"

"교문 앞에서 만나는 거 어때요?"

"교문이 몇 시에 닫히는지 아세요?"

"졸업할 때 교문 앞에서 사진 찍었나요?"

"교문 근처에 맛있는 식당이 있어요?"

Tagebuch-Impulse

처음 학교 교문을 들어섰을 때의 기분을 써 보세요.

우리 학교 교문의 모습에 대해 자세히 묘사해 보세요.

졸업식 날 교문을 나서며 어떤 생각을 했나요?

교문 앞에서 친구를 기다렸던 기억이 있나요?

만약 내가 교문을 디자인한다면 어떤 모습일까요?

Häufig gestellte Fragen

10 Fragen

Yes, '교문' is used for elementary, middle, high schools, and universities. For universities, people also frequently use '정문' (main gate) or '후문' (back gate) because campuses are so large.

It is a neutral, standard word. It is appropriate for both formal announcements and casual conversations with friends.

You should say '학교 후문' or simply '후문' if the context of the school is already established.

'교문' is the gate at the very edge of the school property (outdoors). '현관' is the entrance to the actual school building where you take off your shoes.

This is a tradition called '등교 지도' (arrival guidance). Teachers check for tardiness, uniform violations, and ensure student safety as they enter the school.

You can add '-들' to make '교문들', but it's rarely used unless you are talking about the gates of many different schools at once.

It most commonly means to graduate. It signifies moving from the protected academic environment into the larger society.

Usually, '교문' implies a large, main entrance. For a small side entrance, people usually say '옆문' (side door) or '쪽문' (small side door).

Yes, the word is derived from Hanja and is used in both South and North Korea to mean school gate.

It is written as 校門.

Teste dich selbst 200 Fragen

writing

Write a sentence using '교문 앞에서'.

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Describe your school gate in one sentence.

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate: 'The school gate is closed.'

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate: 'Let's meet at the school gate at 3 PM.'

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Write a sentence using '교문을 나서다'.

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate: 'Teachers are standing at the school gate.'

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Write about a memory involving a school gate.

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate: 'The school gate is the first step to a new life.'

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Write a formal notice about gate closure.

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Describe the cultural significance of '교문' in Korea.

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate: 'I saw my teacher at the school gate.'

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Write a sentence using '교문 근처'.

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate: 'Pass through the gate and turn left.'

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Write a sentence using '정문' and '교문'.

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate: 'The gate was repainted blue.'

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Write a sentence about a 'School Zone'.

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate: 'I'll wait for you right in front of the gate.'

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Write a sentence using '교문 지도'.

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate: 'The school gate is the face of the school.'

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Write a sentence about an abandoned school gate.

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Pronounce '교문' clearly.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say 'Meet me at the school gate' in Korean.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say 'The gate is big' in Korean.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say 'Is the gate open?' in Korean.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Describe where the school gate is located (e.g., next to the bus stop).

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Ask a friend to wait at the back gate.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Explain why you were late using the word '교문'.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Tell someone not to park in front of the gate.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Describe the scene at a school gate on graduation day.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Discuss the safety of school zones near the gate.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Talk about a historical protest at a university gate.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Give a speech about 'leaving the school gate' (graduation).

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Analyze the design of your school's gate.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Roleplay: You are a security guard asking for an ID at the gate.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Roleplay: You are meeting a friend at the gate but you are at the wrong one.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say 'The school gate is the gate of learning.'

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Ask 'Where is the main school gate?'

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say 'I'm standing right in front of the gate.'

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say 'The gate will be repainted next week.'

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say 'The gate is symbolic of our youth.'

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen and identify the word: '교문'.

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

Listen and choose the location: '교문 앞으로 오세요.'

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

Listen and choose the action: '교문을 통과하세요.'

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

Listen and identify the state: '교문이 닫혔어요.'

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

Listen and identify the person: '선생님이 교문에 계셔요.'

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

Listen and identify the time: '교문은 8시에 열려요.'

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

Listen and identify the landmark: '교문 옆에 편의점이 있어요.'

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

Listen and choose the meaning: '교문을 나서다.'

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

Listen and identify the reason: '교문이 낡아서 수리해요.'

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

Listen and identify the activity: '교문 앞에서 응원해요.'

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

Listen and identify the subject: '교문의 현판이 멋져요.'

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

Listen and identify the rule: '교문 앞 주차 금지입니다.'

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

Listen and identify the direction: '교문 쪽으로 가세요.'

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

Listen and identify the feeling: '교문을 보니 설레요.'

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

Listen and identify the context: '교문 지도 중입니다.'

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

/ 200 correct

Perfect score!

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