At the A1 level, you learn that '문자' means 'text' and '보내다' means 'to send'. You use this phrase to describe a simple action you do with your phone. You might say '문자 보내요' (I send a text) or '친구한테 문자 보내요' (I send a text to a friend). At this stage, you focus on the basic S-V (Subject-Verb) or S-O-V (Subject-Object-Verb) structure. You learn that the person receiving the text is marked with '한테' in speaking. You also learn the present tense and the basic polite ending '-요'. This is one of the most practical phrases for a beginner because it allows you to explain what you are doing on your smartphone, which is a very common activity. You don't need to worry about complex grammar yet; just focus on the connection between the object (text) and the action (sending).
At the A2 level, you begin to use '문자 보내다' in more varied contexts and tenses. You can talk about the past: '어제 문자를 보냈어요' (I sent a text yesterday). You can also express future plans: '나중에 문자 보낼 거예요' (I will send a text later). You start to use particles more accurately, like '를' for the object '문자', although you also learn that it can be omitted. You might use the phrase with reasons, such as '생일이라서 문자를 보냈어요' (I sent a text because it's [their] birthday). You also learn the '-(으)세요' ending to ask others to text you: '문자 보내 주세요' (Please send me a text). This level is about making the phrase functional for daily life interactions, like making plans or checking in with people.
At the B1 level, you use '문자 보내다' within more complex sentence structures. You can use connecting particles like '-고' (and), '-지만' (but), or '-어서' (because/so). For example, '문자를 보냈지만 답장이 없어요' (I sent a text, but there is no reply). You also begin to use auxiliary verbs like '-고 싶다' (want to) or '-아/어 보다' (to try). For instance, '선생님께 문자를 보내 봤어요' (I tried sending a text to the teacher). You also learn about the honorific '드리다' to show respect: '부장님께 문자를 보내 드렸습니다' (I sent a text to the manager). At this stage, you are not just stating facts but expressing your feelings, attempts, and social hierarchy through the phrase.
At the B2 level, you can use '문자 보내다' to express nuance and hypothetical situations. You might use the '-을까 봐' (worrying that...) structure: '방해될까 봐 문자를 못 보냈어요' (I couldn't send a text because I was worried I would be a disturbance). You also understand the passive and causative forms or how the phrase fits into reported speech: '그가 문자 보내겠다고 했어요' (He said he would send a text). You can discuss the social implications of texting, such as '문자 보내는 예절' (texting etiquette). Your vocabulary expands to include related terms like '확인하다' (to check) or '무시하다' (to ignore/read and not reply). You can handle more professional scenarios, such as sending formal notifications to clients.
At the C1 level, you use '문자 보내다' in sophisticated ways, often within academic or professional discussions about communication technology. You might analyze the impact of '문자 보내기' on language evolution or social relationships. You use advanced grammar like '-을 뿐만 아니라' (not only... but also) or '-음에도 불구하고' (despite the fact that). For example, '바쁨에도 불구하고 일일이 문자를 보내는 성의를 보였다' (Despite being busy, they showed sincerity by sending texts one by one). You understand the subtle differences between '문자', '메시지', and '서신' (correspondence). You can also use the phrase in metaphorical contexts or within complex legal/business descriptions of notification protocols.
At the C2 level, '문자 보내다' is used with native-level fluency, incorporating idioms and very specific registers. You might use it in literary writing to describe a character's internal state through their texting habits. You understand the historical context of how '문자' (letters) evolved into '문자 메시지' (digital texts). You can participate in high-level debates about the ethics of '스팸 문자' (spam texts) or the psychological effects of constant connectivity. You might use archaic or highly formal versions like '기별을 보내다' (to send word) in specific stylistic contexts. At this level, the phrase is a tool you manipulate perfectly to fit any possible social, professional, or artistic situation, showing a deep understanding of both the language and the culture.

문자 보내다 in 30 Sekunden

  • 문자 보내다 means 'to send a text message' and is a core phrase for daily communication in Korea.
  • It combines the word for 'characters/letters' (문자) with the verb 'to send' (보내다).
  • It is used for both traditional SMS and modern messaging apps like KakaoTalk or Telegram.
  • The phrase is versatile, used in formal, neutral, and informal registers depending on the verb ending.

The Korean phrase 문자 보내다 (mun-ja bo-nae-da) is a fundamental verb phrase in modern Korean communication. At its core, it translates to 'to send a text message.' The word 문자 (mun-ja) literally means 'letters' or 'characters,' but in the context of technology, it refers specifically to SMS (Short Message Service) or digital text communication. The verb 보내다 (bo-nae-da) is the standard Korean verb for 'to send,' used for physical mail, electronic signals, or even people. When combined, they form the most common way to describe the act of texting someone. While younger generations frequently use specific app names like 'KakaoTalk' (카톡), '문자 보내다' remains the broad, standard term that covers all forms of text-based messaging. It is used in professional settings, daily casual conversations, and formal announcements. Understanding this phrase is essential because Korea is a highly digitized society where texting often takes precedence over voice calls for non-urgent matters. Whether you are letting a friend know you are running late or confirming an appointment with a doctor, this is the phrase you will use. It carries a sense of convenience and non-intrusive communication that is central to Korean social etiquette.

Etymology
Derived from the Hanja 文字 (Munja) meaning 'written characters' and the native Korean verb 보내다 (Bonaeda).
Modern Context
Often used interchangeably with '메시지 보내다' (sending a message) in digital environments.
Frequency
Extremely high; used multiple times daily by almost every Korean speaker under 80.

도착하면 문자 보내 주세요. (Please send me a text when you arrive.)

어제 친구한테 문자 보냈어요. (I sent a text to my friend yesterday.)

지금 바쁘니까 나중에 문자 보낼게요. (I'm busy now, so I'll text you later.)

부모님께 안부 문자 보내다. (Sending a greeting text to parents.)

선생님께 질문 문자 보냈니? (Did you send a question text to the teacher?)

Socially, '문자 보내다' represents more than just data transmission; it is a tool for building relationships. In the dating world, the frequency and timing of sending texts are analyzed meticulously. In the workplace, sending a text to confirm a meeting is seen as professional and organized. Even in family dynamics, a simple text can bridge the gap between busy schedules. The phrase is incredibly versatile, fitting into almost any social hierarchy depending on the conjugation used at the end of '보내다'. Whether you are using the formal '보냅니다', the polite '보내요', or the intimate '보내', the core action remains the same: reaching out through the digital written word.

Using 문자 보내다 correctly requires an understanding of Korean particles and verb conjugation. The most common structure is [Recipient] + 에게/한테 (to) + 문자(를) + 보내다. For example, '동생한테 문자를 보냈어요' means 'I sent a text to my younger sibling.' Here, '한테' is the casual 'to' particle, and '보냈어요' is the past tense polite form. If you are speaking to someone of higher status, you might use '께' instead of '에게' and potentially an honorific form of the verb, though '보내다' itself is usually sufficient unless you are using the highly formal '올리다' for sending things to superiors. The phrase can also be used in various moods: imperative ('문자 보내!'), suggestive ('문자 보낼까요?'), or future intent ('문자 보낼게요').

Grammar: Particles
Use '에게' for formal writing, '한테' for speaking, and '께' for honorifics when indicating the recipient.
Grammar: Tense
Past: 보냈어요 (Sent), Present: 보내요 (Send/Sending), Future: 보낼 거예요 (Will send).
Grammar: Omission
The object marker '를' is nearly always omitted in spoken Korean unless emphasis is needed.

내일 아침에 문자 보내 줄게. (I'll send you a text tomorrow morning.)

누구한테 문자 보내고 있어? (Who are you sending a text to?)

예약 확인 문자 보내야 해요. (I have to send a reservation confirmation text.)

In more complex sentences, '문자 보내다' can be part of a causal link. For example, '문자를 보내서 약속을 잡았어요' (I sent a text and made an appointment). It can also be used with the '려고' (in order to) ending: '질문하려고 문자를 보냈어요' (I sent a text in order to ask a question). Because '보내다' is a regular verb ending in 'ㅐ', its conjugation is straightforward. It doesn't undergo irregular changes, making it a reliable verb for beginners to practice. Interestingly, while '문자' is the object, the focus of the sentence is often on the recipient or the reason for the message. In Korean culture, the act of sending the text is seen as an active effort to maintain a connection, so using the phrase correctly helps convey your social intentions accurately.

You will hear 문자 보내다 in almost every facet of Korean life. In K-Dramas, it is a plot device used to show characters communicating secretly or confessing their feelings. In a typical office setting, a manager might say, '거래처에 문자 보냈어요?' (Did you send a text to the client?). In subways or buses, you'll often hear people on their phones saying, '지금 문자 보낼 테니까 확인해' (I'm sending a text now, so check it). Even in automated systems, like when you order food or buy a ticket, the machine or app will notify you: '결제 내역을 문자로 보내드렸습니다' (We have sent the payment details to you via text).

Television & Media
Variety shows often display texts on screen with the caption '문자 도착' (Text arrived).
Public Service
Emergency alerts are called '재난 문자' (disaster texts), often referred to as being 'sent' to citizens.
Daily Life
Friends asking '문자 봤어?' (Did you see my text?) after sending one.

방송 중에 문자 보내시면 안 됩니다. (You should not send texts during the broadcast.)

택배 기사님이 문자 보냈네요. (The delivery driver sent a text.)

One interesting place you'll hear this is in the context of 'spam' or 'marketing.' Koreans call these '스팸 문자' (spam texts). You might hear someone complain, '자꾸 광고 문자가 보내져요' (I keep getting sent advertisement texts). In the dating scene, the phrase '자니?' (Are you sleeping?) is a legendary late-night text that people joke about. If someone says, '구남친이 자니라고 문자 보냈어' (My ex-boyfriend sent a text saying 'Are you sleeping?'), it's a common cultural trope. This shows how '문자 보내다' is not just a technical action but a significant part of the social fabric, carrying emotions, intentions, and sometimes even humor. Whether it is a formal notification from a bank or a casual check-in from a friend, the phrase is ubiquitous.

When learning 문자 보내다, English speakers often make mistakes with particles or by confusing it with other communication verbs. A common error is using '에게' (to) with '전화하다' (to call) and '문자 보내다' interchangeably, but while they both take '에게/한테', the action is distinct. Another mistake is using '쓰다' (to write) when they mean 'to send.' While you can '문자를 쓰다' (write a text), the act of communication isn't complete until you '보내다' (send) it. If you say '친구에게 문자를 썼어요,' it implies you wrote it but perhaps didn't send it yet. To say you texted someone, '보내다' is the essential verb.

Mistake 1: Wrong Particle
Using '를' on the person instead of the text. Incorrect: '친구를 문자 보냈어요.' Correct: '친구에게 문자를 보냈어요.'
Mistake 2: Confusing '주다' and '보내다'
Learners often say '문자 줘요' which is okay, but '문자 보내 주세요' is more complete and polite for 'Please send me a text.'
Mistake 3: Tense Confusion
Forgetting that '보내다' becomes '보내요' in the present, not '보내해요'.

Incorrect: 엄마를 문자 보냈어요. (I texted mom - grammatically wrong particle.)

Correct: 엄마한테 문자를 보냈어요.

Another nuance is the difference between '문자 보내다' and '연락하다' (to contact). While sending a text is a *way* to contact someone, '연락하다' is broader. If someone asks you to '연락해' (contact me), you can call, text, or email. But if they say '문자 보내', they specifically want a text. Using the specific phrase '문자 보내다' shows you understand the preferred medium of communication. Also, be careful with the honorifics. While you '보내다' to a friend, you '보내 드려요' to a boss or elder. Adding '드리다' (the humble version of 'give') after the '보내' stem (보내 + 어 + 드리다 = 보내 드려요) shows proper respect. Mastering these small distinctions will make your Korean sound much more natural and polite.

While 문자 보내다 is the standard, there are several alternatives depending on the platform and the level of formality. The most common modern alternative is 카톡하다 (ka-tok-ha-da), which means 'to KakaoTalk.' Since KakaoTalk is the dominant messaging app in Korea, people often use this verb directly. Another formal alternative is 메시지를 남기다 (me-si-ji-reul nam-gi-da), which means 'to leave a message.' This is often used when someone doesn't answer a call, and you decide to leave a text or voicemail. There is also 연락을 취하다 (yeon-rak-eul chwi-ha-da), a very formal way to say 'to make contact,' used in business or legal contexts.

카톡하다 (Ka-tok-ha-da)
Specific to the KakaoTalk app. Very common among friends and colleagues. '나중에 카톡할게' (I'll Katalk you later).
메시지 보내다 (Me-si-ji bo-nae-da)
A loanword version. Sounds slightly more modern or can refer to Instagram DMs or Facebook messages.
DM(디엠) 보내다
Specifically used for Direct Messages on social media platforms like Instagram.

문자 대신 카톡 보낼게요. (I'll send a KakaoTalk instead of a text.)

음성 메시지를 남겨 주세요. (Please leave a voice message.)

When comparing '문자 보내다' and '카톡하다', the former is more 'official' or 'universal.' If you are texting a stranger or a government office, you would always use '문자'. If you are talking to a friend, '카톡' is much more natural. There is also the phrase '쪽지 보내다' (to send a note), which is used for internal messaging systems on websites or forums (like Reddit's PM system). In the past, '문자' was limited by character counts (SMS vs. LMS), but today, with smartphones, these distinctions are mostly handled by the phone itself. However, the phrase '단체 문자' (group text) is still widely used when a school or company sends a mass notification. Knowing these variations helps you navigate different digital spaces in Korea with ease.

How Formal Is It?

Wusstest du?

Before smartphones, Koreans used 'bby-bby' (pagers). Instead of '문자 보내다', people used to '찍다' (to punch in) numbers. The transition to '문자 보내다' marked the era of the 40-character SMS limit, which led to the creation of many Korean texting abbreviations still used today.

Aussprachehilfe

UK /mun.dʑa bo.nɛ.da/
US /mun.dʒa boʊ.neɪ.dɑ/
Stress is relatively even across syllables, as is typical in Korean, but a slight emphasis may fall on the first syllable of each word: MUN-ja bo-NAE-da.
Reimt sich auf
감자 (Gamja - Potato) 사자 (Saja - Lion) 의자 (Uija - Chair) 꺼내다 (Kkeonaeda - To take out) 지내다 (Jinaeda - To spend time) 끝내다 (Kkeutnaeda - To finish) 기자 (Gija - Reporter) 모자 (Moja - Hat)
Häufige Fehler
  • Pronouncing 'mun' as 'man'. It should be a 'u' sound like in 'put'.
  • Making the 'j' in 'ja' too harsh like 'church'. It should be softer.
  • Pronouncing 'nae' as 'nay' (long A). It's closer to the 'e' in 'egg'.
  • Forgetting to aspirate the 'b' in 'bo' slightly if it starts the sentence.
  • Pronouncing 'da' as 'the'. It is a clear 'd' sound.

Schwierigkeitsgrad

Lesen 2/5

The words are common and the grammar is standard A2 level.

Schreiben 3/5

Requires knowledge of recipient particles (에게/한테/께) and verb conjugation.

Sprechen 2/5

The pronunciation is straightforward with no difficult consonant clusters.

Hören 2/5

The phrase is very distinct and frequently heard in daily life.

Was du als Nächstes lernen solltest

Voraussetzungen

문자 (Text/Character) 보내다 (To send) 친구 (Friend) 휴대폰 (Mobile phone) 한테 (To - particle)

Als Nächstes lernen

답장하다 (To reply) 연락하다 (To contact) 전화하다 (To call) 확인하다 (To check) 남기다 (To leave a message)

Fortgeschritten

수신 (Reception) 발신 (Transmission) 통신 (Communication) 첨부하다 (To attach a file) 전송 (Transfer)

Wichtige Grammatik

Recipient Particles (에게/한테/께)

친구한테(informal) / 선생님께(honorific) 문자 보내요.

Auxiliary Verb -아/어 주다 (Do for someone)

문자 보내 주세요 (Please send me a text).

Object Marker Omission

문자(를) 보내요. (Commonly omitted in speech).

Future Intent -ㄹ게요

나중에 문자 보낼게요 (I will text you later - promising).

Reason Ending -아/어서

궁금해서 문자 보냈어요 (I texted because I was curious).

Beispiele nach Niveau

1

친구한테 문자 보내요.

I send a text to my friend.

'-한테' is used for 'to a person' in casual speech.

2

문자 보내 주세요.

Please send me a text.

'-아/어 주세요' is a polite way to ask for a favor.

3

지금 문자 보내요?

Are you sending a text now?

Question mark changes the intonation to a question.

4

엄마한테 문자 보내요.

I am texting my mom.

'엄마' means mom, '-한테' means to.

5

문자 보내고 싶어요.

I want to send a text.

'-고 싶다' expresses desire.

6

여기서 문자 보내요.

I send a text here.

'-에서' marks the location of the action.

7

문자 안 보내요.

I don't send a text.

'안' is used for negation.

8

선생님, 문자 보내요.

Teacher, I'm sending a text.

Direct address to the teacher.

1

어제 친구한테 문자를 보냈어요.

I sent a text to my friend yesterday.

'-았/었-' is the past tense marker.

2

내일 문자를 보낼 거예요.

I will send a text tomorrow.

'-을 거예요' is the future tense marker.

3

도착하면 문자 보내 주세요.

Please send a text when you arrive.

'-면' means 'if' or 'when'.

4

문자를 보내고 있어요.

I am currently sending a text.

'-고 있다' is the progressive form.

5

누구한테 문자를 보냈니?

Who did you send a text to?

'-니' is a casual question ending.

6

사진이랑 같이 문자 보냈어요.

I sent a text along with a photo.

'-이랑 같이' means 'together with'.

7

일찍 문자 보내서 미안해요.

Sorry for sending a text so early.

'-아/어서' indicates a reason.

8

문자를 보내야 해요.

I have to send a text.

'-아/어야 하다' means 'must' or 'have to'.

1

문자를 보냈는데 답장이 없어요.

I sent a text, but there's no reply.

'-는데' is used to provide background or contrast.

2

선생님께 문자를 보내 드렸어요.

I sent a text to the teacher (honorific).

'-어 드리다' is the honorific version of 'give/do for'.

3

심심해서 친구한테 문자 보냈어요.

I was bored, so I sent a text to my friend.

'-아/어서' connects cause and effect.

4

문자를 보내 본 적이 없어요.

I have never tried sending a text.

'-ㄴ 적이 없다' means 'to have never done something'.

5

문자 보내는 것을 잊어버렸어요.

I forgot to send the text.

'-는 것' turns the verb phrase into a noun clause.

6

운전할 때는 문자 보내면 안 돼요.

You shouldn't send texts while driving.

'-면 안 되다' expresses prohibition.

7

문자 보내기보다 전화하는 게 좋아요.

I prefer calling over sending a text.

'-기보다' means 'rather than'.

8

예약 확인 문자를 보내야겠어요.

I guess I should send a reservation confirmation text.

'-아야겠다' expresses a newly formed intention.

1

방해될까 봐 문자를 안 보냈어요.

I didn't send a text for fear of being a disturbance.

'-을까 봐' expresses worry or fear about something.

2

문자를 보내 봤자 소용없을 거예요.

Even if you try sending a text, it will be useless.

'-아/어 봤자' means 'even if/no matter how much'.

3

급한 일이라서 문자를 보내 놓았어요.

Since it's urgent, I sent a text in advance.

'-아/어 놓다' means to do something and keep it in that state.

4

그가 나에게 문자 보내라고 시켰어요.

He made me send a text.

'-라고 시키다' is a causative construction.

5

문자를 보내는 대신에 직접 찾아갔어요.

Instead of sending a text, I went there in person.

'-는 대신에' means 'instead of'.

6

문자를 보내려던 참에 전화가 왔어요.

Just as I was about to send a text, the phone rang.

'-으려던 참이다' means 'was just about to'.

7

문자를 보내기만 하면 다 해결될 거예요.

If you just send a text, everything will be resolved.

'-기만 하면' means 'if only one does'.

8

문자를 보내기는커녕 전화도 안 받아요.

Far from sending a text, he doesn't even answer calls.

'-기는커녕' means 'far from' or 'let alone'.

1

성의를 다해 문자를 보내는 것이 중요합니다.

It is important to send texts with all your sincerity.

Formal sentence structure using '-는 것'.

2

공지 사항을 문자로 보내 드린 바 있습니다.

We have previously sent the notice via text.

'-ㄴ 바 있다' is a formal way to refer to a past fact.

3

문자를 보냄으로써 오해를 풀 수 있었습니다.

By sending a text, I was able to clear up the misunderstanding.

'-음으로써' indicates the means or method.

4

수시로 문자를 보내는 행위는 집착일 수 있습니다.

The act of sending texts frequently can be an obsession.

Abstract noun '행위' (act) and '-ㄹ 수 있다' (possibility).

5

문자를 보낼 때의 어조가 관계에 영향을 미칩니다.

The tone when sending a text affects the relationship.

'영향을 미치다' is a collocated phrase for 'to influence'.

6

그녀는 답장을 기다리며 계속 문자를 보냈다.

She kept sending texts while waiting for a reply.

'-으며' indicates simultaneous actions.

7

문자를 보내지 않고서는 견딜 수 없었다.

I couldn't stand it without sending a text.

'-지 않고서는' means 'without doing'.

8

문자를 보내는 속도가 예전보다 빨라졌다.

The speed of sending texts has become faster than before.

Comparative structure with '보다'.

1

디지털 시대에 문자를 보내는 행위는 새로운 서사 양식이다.

In the digital age, the act of sending a text is a new narrative form.

Academic register with '서사 양식' (narrative form).

2

문자 한 통 보내는 것조차 버거운 현대인의 고독.

The loneliness of modern people for whom even sending a single text is burdensome.

'-조차' means 'even' in a negative or extreme context.

3

문자를 보내는 찰나의 순간에 만감이 교차했다.

In the fleeting moment of sending the text, a flood of emotions crossed my mind.

'만감이 교차하다' is an idiomatic expression for mixed emotions.

4

정치적 목적을 위해 대량으로 문자를 보내는 행위가 논란이 되고 있다.

The act of sending mass texts for political purposes is becoming controversial.

Passive construction '논란이 되고 있다'.

5

문자를 보내는 것은 비대면 소통의 극치를 보여준다.

Sending a text shows the pinnacle of non-face-to-face communication.

'비대면' (non-face-to-face) is a key modern term.

6

그는 사죄의 의미로 장문의 문자를 보내 왔다.

He sent a long text as a gesture of apology.

'-어 오다' indicates an action that has been continuing or coming towards the present.

7

문자를 보내는 이의 심경을 헤아리기가 쉽지 않다.

It is not easy to fathom the feelings of the person sending the text.

'헤아리다' means to fathom or consider deeply.

8

문자를 보내는 관습은 세대별로 확연한 차이를 보인다.

Texting customs show distinct differences across generations.

'확연한 차이' means a distinct or clear difference.

Häufige Kollokationen

답장 문자를 보내다
단체 문자를 보내다
예약 문자를 보내다
안부 문자를 보내다
확인 문자를 보내다
잘못 보내다
자주 보내다
장문의 문자를 보내다
이모티콘을 보내다
몰래 보내다

Häufige Phrasen

문자 보내 줄게요

— I will send you a text (for your benefit). Often used when promising to provide info.

식당 주소 문자 보내 줄게요.

문자 보내 봐요

— Try sending a text. Used as a suggestion.

그 사람한테 문자 한번 보내 봐요.

문자 보내지 마세요

— Please do not send a text. A polite prohibition.

밤늦게는 문자 보내지 마세요.

문자 보내는 중이에요

— I am in the middle of sending a text.

잠시만요, 지금 문자 보내는 중이에요.

문자 보내야겠다

— I should send a text. Expressing a sudden thought or decision.

심심한데 친구한테 문자 보내야겠다.

문자 보내기로 했어요

— We decided to send texts. Indicating a plan or promise.

내일 만나기 전에 문자 보내기로 했어요.

문자 보낼까 생각 중이에요

— I'm thinking about whether to send a text.

헤어진 여자친구한테 문자 보낼까 생각 중이에요.

문자 보낼 시간이 없어요

— I don't have time to send a text.

너무 바빠서 문자 보낼 시간이 없어요.

문자 보내기 힘들어요

— It's hard to send a text. (Due to physical or emotional reasons).

손가락을 다쳐서 문자 보내기 힘들어요.

문자 보내는 법

— How to send a text. Used when asking for instructions.

할머니께 문자 보내는 법을 가르쳐 드렸어요.

Wird oft verwechselt mit

문자 보내다 vs 편지 쓰다

This means 'to write a letter.' While both involve writing, '문자' is digital and short, whereas '편지' is physical and usually longer.

문자 보내다 vs 전화하다

This means 'to call.' Students often mix up the verbs for texting and calling.

문자 보내다 vs 말하다

This means 'to speak.' You 'speak' words, but you 'send' texts.

Redewendungen & Ausdrücke

"문자 한 통 없다"

— To not receive even a single text message. Used to express disappointment in someone's lack of contact.

생일인데 친구들한테 문자 한 통 없네.

Casual
"문자 폭탄"

— A 'text bomb.' Sending an overwhelming number of messages to someone.

헤어지자마자 문자 폭탄을 받았어요.

Slang
"문자 씹다"

— To 'chew' on a text, meaning to read it and intentionally not reply (ghosting).

왜 내 문자 씹어?

Slang
"읽씹 (Ik-ssip)"

— Short for 'read and chew.' Seeing a message but not replying.

읽씹 당하니까 기분 나쁘다.

Slang
"안읽씹 (An-ik-ssip)"

— Not reading a message and not replying (intentionally ignoring the notification).

일부러 안읽씹 하는 것 같아.

Slang
"칼답 (Kal-dap)"

— A 'knife reply.' An incredibly fast, almost instant response to a text.

그는 항상 칼답을 보내요.

Slang
"자니? 문자"

— The 'Are you sleeping?' text. A stereotypical late-night text from an ex.

새벽에 전 남친한테 자니?라고 문자 왔어.

Casual/Meme
"단답형 문자"

— A short, one-word or very brief reply that discourages conversation.

그녀는 항상 단답형 문자로만 답해요.

Neutral
"문자 투표"

— Text voting, common in TV talent shows like 'Produce 101'.

좋아하는 가수에게 문자 투표를 했어요.

Neutral
"문자 알림음"

— The notification sound for a text message.

문자 알림음이 울려서 잠에서 깼어요.

Neutral

Leicht verwechselbar

문자 보내다 vs 보내다 vs 부치다

Both can mean 'to send'.

'보내다' is general. '부치다' is specifically for mailing letters or packages via post. You never '부치다' a text message.

편지를 부치다 (Mail a letter) vs 문자를 보내다 (Send a text).

문자 보내다 vs 문자 vs 문장

They sound similar.

'문자' means characters/texts. '문장' means a 'sentence'.

긴 문장을 썼어요 (I wrote a long sentence) vs 문자를 보냈어요 (I sent a text).

문자 보내다 vs 보내다 vs 내다

Both end in '내다'.

'보내다' is to send. '내다' usually means to pay (money) or submit (homework).

숙제를 내다 (Submit homework) vs 문자를 보내다 (Send a text).

문자 보내다 vs 메시지 vs 메일

Both are digital communication.

'메시지' is a text/DM. '메일' is specifically an email.

이메일을 보내다 (Send an email) vs 문자를 보내다 (Send a text).

문자 보내다 vs 답장 vs 답안

Both start with '답' (answer).

'답장' is a reply to a message. '답안' is an answer to an exam question.

답장을 보내다 (Send a reply) vs 답안을 작성하다 (Write an answer sheet).

Satzmuster

A1

[Person]한테 문자 보내요.

친구한테 문자 보내요.

A2

[Time]에 문자 보낼 거예요.

내일 아침에 문자 보낼 거예요.

B1

[Reason] 때문에 문자 보냈어요.

숙제 때문에 문자 보냈어요.

B1

[Person]께 문자 보내 드렸어요.

사장님께 문자 보내 드렸어요.

B2

문자 보내는 대신에 [Action].

문자 보내는 대신에 전화했어요.

B2

문자 보낼까 봐 [Action].

문자 보낼까 봐 휴대폰을 껐어요.

C1

문자를 보냄으로써 [Result].

문자를 보냄으로써 문제를 해결했습니다.

C2

문자 한 통 보내는 것조차 [Emotion].

문자 한 통 보내는 것조차 귀찮아요.

Wortfamilie

Substantive

문자 (Text/Character)
메시지 (Message)
답장 (Reply)
수신 (Reception)
발신 (Sending/Originating)

Verben

보내다 (To send)
받다 (To receive)
남기다 (To leave)
지우다 (To delete)
전달하다 (To forward/deliver)

Adjektive

간단한 (Simple/Brief - often used with 문자)
긴 (Long)
중요한 (Important)
급한 (Urgent)

Verwandt

스마트폰 (Smartphone)
번호 (Number)
카카오톡 (KakaoTalk)
알림 (Notification)
데이터 (Data)

So verwendest du es

frequency

Extremely frequent in all age groups, especially among office workers and students.

Häufige Fehler
  • 친구를 문자 보냈어요. 친구한테 문자를 보냈어요.

    You send a text *to* a friend, so you must use the recipient particle '한테/에게', not the object marker '를'.

  • 문자를 보내해요. 문자를 보내요.

    The verb is '보내다', not '보내하다'. The present tense is '보내요'.

  • 문자를 부쳤어요. 문자를 보냈어요.

    '부치다' is only for physical mail. For digital texts, always use '보내다'.

  • 문자를 쓰냈어요. 문자를 보냈어요.

    Learners sometimes mix up '쓰다' (write) and '보내다' (send). They are separate actions.

  • 선생님한테 문자 보냈어요. 선생님께 문자 보내 드렸어요.

    When the recipient is a teacher, use the honorific particle '께' and the humble verb '보내 드리다'.

Tipps

Verb Ending Consistency

Ensure your ending matches your social relationship. Use '-어' for friends, '-아요/어요' for acquaintances, and '-으십니다' for very formal situations.

Response Time

Koreans value quick responses. If you send a text and don't get a reply for hours, it might be interpreted as being ignored unless the person is known to be busy.

Specific Apps

If you are using a specific app, try using the app name + '하다'. For example, 'DM(디엠) 하다' for Instagram or '페메(Facebook Message) 하다'.

Use of Emojis

In Korean texts, using tildes (~~) and exclamation marks (!!) is common to sound friendly. A text without any 'aegyo' symbols can sometimes sound cold.

Identifying the Recipient

The recipient usually comes before '문자'. Listen for '친구한테', '엄마한테', etc., to know who is being texted.

Natural Omission

When speaking quickly, don't worry about the '를' in '문자를'. '문자 보냈어' sounds more like a native speaker than '문자를 보냈어'.

Confirmation Texts

When you finish an appointment or meeting, it's polite to send a '수고하셨습니다' (Good job/Thank you) text.

Don't confuse with 'Email'

Always use '이메일' for emails. '문자' is strictly for phone-based text messaging.

Action Association

Every time you send a text today, say '문자 보낸다' out loud to reinforce the connection between the action and the phrase.

The word 'Tong' (통)

Remember that the counter for texts is '통'. Saying '문자 한 통 보냈어요' makes you sound very proficient.

Einprägen

Eselsbrücke

Think of 'Moon' (문) and 'Jar' (자). You put your 'Moon characters' in a 'Jar' and 'Bo-nae-da' (Bone-a-day) send them away. A bone a day keeps the silence away!

Visuelle Assoziation

Imagine a tiny paper airplane made of '문자' (letters) being '보내다' (sent) flying from one phone screen to another.

Word Web

Phone Typing Screen Recipient Notification Reply SMS Emoji

Herausforderung

Try to say '문자 보내 주세요' three times fast. Then, try to conjugate '보내다' into five different tenses (보내요, 보냈어요, 보낼게요, 보내고 있어요, 보내야 해요).

Wortherkunft

The phrase is a combination of the Hanja-derived noun '문자' and the native Korean verb '보내다'. '문자' comes from the Middle Chinese 'mju-dzí', where 'mun' (文) means writing or literature, and 'ja' (字) means character or letter. '보내다' is a native Korean word that has been used for centuries to mean 'to cause to go' or 'to dispatch'.

Ursprüngliche Bedeutung: Originally, '문자 보내다' would have meant sending a physical letter or document containing written characters. With the advent of mobile technology in the 1990s, the meaning shifted to electronic SMS.

Koreanic (native verb) + Sino-Korean (noun).

Kultureller Kontext

Be careful when texting elders; always use honorifics and avoid using too many abbreviations or slang, which can be seen as disrespectful.

In English, we say 'texting' or 'sending a text.' In Korean, '문자 보내다' is slightly more formal sounding than 'texting' but functions the same way.

The song 'Some' by Soyou and Junggigo mentions checking phone messages constantly. K-Dramas often feature 'texting montages' to show characters falling in love. The '자니?' (Are you sleeping?) text is a recurring joke in Korean comedy.

Im Alltag üben

Kontexte aus dem Alltag

Social Planning

  • 언제 만날지 문자 보내 줄게.
  • 약속 장소 문자 보내 줘.
  • 도착하면 문자 보내.
  • 시간 되면 문자 보내 주세요.

Workplace

  • 부장님께 보고 문자 보냈어요?
  • 회의 시간 변경 문자 보내야 해요.
  • 거래처에 확인 문자 보냈습니다.
  • 문자로 자료 보내 드릴게요.

Family

  • 엄마한테 안부 문자 보냈니?
  • 아빠가 문자 보냈어.
  • 할머니께 문자 보내 드려.
  • 집에 올 때 문자 보내.

Dating

  • 왜 문자 안 보내?
  • 어제 문자 보내고 싶었는데 참았어.
  • 문자 보내는 거 깜빡했어.
  • 우리 문자 자주 하자.

Emergencies

  • 도와달라고 문자 보냈어요.
  • 경찰에 문자 보낼 수 있어요?
  • 긴급 재난 문자가 왔어요.
  • 위험하면 바로 문자 보내.

Gesprächseinstiege

"어제 누구한테 마지막으로 문자 보냈어요?"

"평소에 문자 보내는 거 좋아해요, 아니면 전화하는 거 좋아해요?"

"문자 보낼 때 이모티콘 자주 사용해요?"

"친구한테 문자 보냈는데 답장이 없으면 어때요?"

"가장 길게 문자를 보내 본 적이 언제예요?"

Tagebuch-Impulse

오늘 보낸 문자들 중에서 가장 기억에 남는 문자에 대해 써 보세요.

내가 생각하는 문자 메시지 예절(Etiquette)은 무엇인가요?

문자 보내기가 우리 삶을 어떻게 바꿨는지 적어 보세요.

누군가에게 문자를 보내고 싶지만 못 보내고 있는 마음을 써 보세요.

미래의 나에게 문자를 보낸다면 어떤 내용을 보내고 싶나요?

Häufig gestellte Fragen

10 Fragen

Yes, you can use it broadly for any text-based message, though '카톡하다' is more specific and common for that app. If you want to be general, '문자' is fine.

'문자 보내다' literally means 'to send a text.' '문자 주다' (to give a text) is more casual and often used in the sense of 'give me a text' (문자 줘).

Technically, '문자' refers to the SMS system on phones, but in casual conversation, it has become a generic term for any short text message.

You use the verb '받다' (to receive). So, '문자 받았어요' (I received a text).

You should use '문자 보내 드리다'. For example: '부장님께 문자를 보내 드렸습니다.'

It is '단체 문자' (dan-che mun-ja). To send one: '단체 문자를 보내다'.

Yes, '문자를 쓰다' means 'to write a text message,' focusing on the act of typing rather than sending.

It means 'Check your text message.' It's a very common command between friends.

You can say '나중에 문자 보내 줘' (casual) or '나중에 문자 보내 주세요' (polite).

In slang, people might just say '문자 해' (do a text) or '톡해' (do a KakaoTalk).

Teste dich selbst 200 Fragen

writing

Translate to Korean: 'I sent a text to my friend.'

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate to Korean: 'Please send me a text later.'

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate to Korean: 'I will send a text tomorrow.'

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate to Korean: 'Did you send a text to the teacher?'

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate to Korean: 'I'm texting right now.'

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate to Korean: 'I have to send a text to my mom.'

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate to Korean: 'I sent a text but there is no reply.'

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate to Korean: 'I forgot to send the text.'

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate to Korean: 'I'll text you when I arrive.'

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate to Korean: 'Don't text while driving.'

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate to Korean: 'I want to send a thank-you text.'

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate to Korean: 'Who are you texting?'

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate to Korean: 'I tried sending a text.'

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate to Korean: 'I sent a text to everyone.'

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate to Korean: 'I'll send a text instead of calling.'

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate to Korean: 'I guess I should send a text.'

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate to Korean: 'I'm sorry for texting late.'

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate to Korean: 'I'll send the address via text.'

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate to Korean: 'I received a text from my friend.'

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate to Korean: 'We decided to text each other often.'

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

How do you say 'I'll text you' to a friend?

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Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

How do you ask 'Did you send a text?' politely?

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Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

How do you say 'Please text me when you get home'?

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Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

How do you say 'I'm texting my mom'?

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Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

How do you say 'I have to send a text'?

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Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

How do you say 'I'll text you later'?

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Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

How do you say 'I want to send a text'?

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Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

How do you say 'Don't send a text' to a child?

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Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

How do you say 'I sent a text to the wrong person'?

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Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

How do you say 'I forgot to text'?

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Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

How do you say 'I'll send a group text'?

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Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

How do you say 'I tried texting him'?

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Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

How do you say 'I'll text the address'?

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Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

How do you say 'Text me if you're bored'?

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Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

How do you say 'I sent a text to the teacher' (honorific)?

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Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

How do you ask 'Why didn't you text?'

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Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

How do you say 'I'm sorry for texting late'?

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Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

How do you say 'I'll text you tomorrow morning'?

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Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

How do you say 'I keep getting spam texts'?

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Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

How do you say 'I'm in the middle of a text'?

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen and transcribe: '친구한테 문자 보냈어요.'

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

Listen and transcribe: '나중에 문자 보내 줘.'

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

Listen and transcribe: '문자 보내는 거 잊지 마세요.'

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

Listen and transcribe: '도착하면 꼭 문자 보내 주세요.'

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

Listen and transcribe: '지금 문자 보내고 있어요?'

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

Listen and transcribe: '선생님께 문자 보내 드렸습니다.'

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

Listen and transcribe: '문자를 보냈는데 답장이 없네.'

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

Listen and transcribe: '단체 문자 보내야 해요.'

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

Listen and transcribe: '왜 자꾸 문자를 보내요?'

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

Listen and transcribe: '문자 보낼 시간이 없었어요.'

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

Listen and transcribe: '주소를 문자로 보내 드릴게요.'

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

Listen and transcribe: '광고 문자 보내지 마세요.'

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

Listen and transcribe: '문자 보내는 법 좀 알려 줘.'

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

Listen and transcribe: '어제 문자 잘못 보냈어.'

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

Listen and transcribe: '심심해서 문자 보냈어.'

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

/ 200 correct

Perfect score!

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