At the A1 level, you can think of 증거하다 as a fancy way to say 'to show the truth.' While you might not use it every day, you will see it in books and movies. It comes from '증거' (evidence) and '하다' (to do). Imagine you have a broken toy and you show your mom the pieces. The pieces '증거하다' (testify) that the toy is broken. In simple Korean, we often use '보여주다' (to show), but '증거하다' is used when we want to be very serious about the truth. For example, '진실을 증거해요' means 'I testify to the truth.' It is like being a witness in a story. Even at A1, knowing this word helps you understand serious moments in K-dramas where someone is trying to prove they are innocent.
At the A2 level, you should recognize 증거하다 as a formal verb used to present proof. It is more formal than '말하다' (to speak) or '보여주다' (to show). You will often see it used with the object marker '-을/를'. For example, '사랑을 증거하다' means to prove or bear witness to love through actions. In A2 grammar, you might see it in the past tense '증거했습니다' (testified) or the future '증거할 거예요' (will testify). This word is useful when you want to talk about something important, like a historical fact or a deep personal belief. It helps you transition from basic everyday language to more formal, descriptive Korean used in schools or churches.
At the B1 level, you begin to distinguish 증거하다 from its synonyms like '증명하다' and '증언하다'. You should understand that '증거하다' is about 'bearing witness' or 'providing evidence' for a fact, often with a moral or personal weight. It is commonly used in religious, legal, and literary contexts. You can start using it in written essays when discussing evidence for a social issue. For instance, '이 통계는 빈부격차를 증거한다' (These statistics testify to the gap between rich and poor). You should also be comfortable with the noun form '증거' (evidence) and how '증거하다' functions as the active verb form of that noun in formal registers.
At the B2 level, you should master the nuances of 증거하다 in various professional and academic fields. You'll notice it in journalism where an event 'testifies' to a larger trend, or in legal settings where physical evidence 'testifies' to a crime. You should be able to use it in complex sentence structures, such as '-음을 증거하다' (testifying to the fact that...). At this level, you should also understand the metaphorical use of the word—how inanimate objects like 'tears' or 'ruins' can be the subject of '증거하다'. This word adds a layer of sophistication and conviction to your Korean, making your arguments sound more authoritative and grounded in factual reality.
At the C1 level, 증거하다 is a tool for precise rhetorical expression. You should understand its historical and philosophical weight, particularly how it has been used in Korean literature and religious texts to describe the manifestation of truth. You can use it to debate complex topics, distinguishing between logical proof (증명) and existential testimony (증거). You'll also encounter it in historical documents or high-level legal analysis. At this stage, you should be able to use the word to describe how abstract concepts like 'justice' or 'time' are evidenced in the physical world. Your ability to use '증거하다' correctly in a high-level discussion signals a deep understanding of Korean formal register and semantic nuance.
At the C2 level, you have a near-native grasp of 증거하다, including its most subtle connotations. You can appreciate how the word is used in classical Korean translations of the Bible or in high-stakes political rhetoric to invoke a sense of ultimate truth. You understand the word's role in 'testimony literature' (증언 문학) and how it functions to validate historical memory. You can use it fluently in any context, from legal briefs to philosophical treatises, knowing exactly when it provides more impact than '입증하다' or '확증하다'. For a C2 learner, '증거하다' is not just a verb; it is a conceptual framework for how truth is established and communicated in the Korean linguistic world.

증거하다 in 30 Sekunden

  • 증거하다 means to testify or bear witness, connecting proof to a specific truth.
  • It is a formal verb used in legal, religious, and academic contexts.
  • Unlike '증명하다' (logical proof), it often implies a personal or historical witness.
  • Commonly used to describe how actions, objects, or words validate a claim.

The Korean verb 증거하다 (jeung-geo-ha-da) is a profound term that translates most accurately to 'to testify,' 'to bear witness,' or 'to provide evidence for a truth.' At its linguistic core, it is a compound of the noun 증거 (evidence/proof) and the light verb 하다 (to do). While in English we might simply say 'to prove,' 증거하다 carries a weightier, often more personal or formal connotation of standing behind a claim with facts or lived experience.

Legal Context
In a courtroom or investigative setting, 증거하다 refers to the act of presenting physical evidence or verbal testimony that supports a specific version of events. It is the bridge between a mere allegation and a verified fact.
Religious & Philosophical Context
Very common in Korean religious discourse (particularly Christianity), it means to 'witness' to one's faith or to testify about a divine experience. Here, it implies that one's life or words serve as proof of a higher truth.
Historical Context
Historians use this word when artifacts or documents 'testify' to the conditions of a past era. For example, 'The ruins testify to the intensity of the war.'

Understanding 증거하다 requires recognizing that it isn't just about 'showing' something; it is about the authority behind the showing. When you 증거하다, you are essentially saying, 'I have the proof, and I am presenting it to establish the truth.' This makes it more formal than 보여주다 (to show) and more specific than 말하다 (to say).

그의 눈물은 그가 얼마나 힘들었는지를 증거한다.
(His tears testify to how much he has suffered.)

In modern daily life, you might encounter this word in news headlines regarding legal trials or in literature when an author describes how nature or a character's actions 'witness' to a deeper reality. It is a word of conviction and clarity.

Culturally, Koreans value 'jeung-geo' (evidence) highly in social disputes. To 증거하다 is to take a stand. It is a verb of action that transforms abstract truth into concrete reality. Whether it is a witness in a box or a scar on a hand, if it 'jeung-geo-ha-da's something, it makes that thing undeniable. This is why the word is often used in serious discussions, academic writing, and formal speeches rather than casual small talk about what you ate for lunch.

이 문서는 과거의 사실을 증거하고 있습니다.
(This document is testifying to the facts of the past.)

Finally, consider the emotional weight. When someone '증거's their love through actions, it suggests a level of proof that words alone cannot provide. It is the ultimate validation of a claim.

Using 증거하다 correctly involves understanding its transitive nature—it usually requires an object (the truth or fact being testified to) followed by the object marker -을/를. Because it is a formal verb, it frequently appears in the -ㅂ니다/-습니다 or -아/어/여요 endings, and often in the present progressive -고 있다 to describe an ongoing state of witness.

Pattern 1: [Noun]을/를 증거하다
The most basic form. 'To testify (to) [Noun].' Example: 진실을 증거하다 (To testify to the truth).
Pattern 2: [Clause]-음을 증거하다
Used to testify to a specific fact described by a verb. Example: 그가 범인임을 증거하다 (To testify that he is the culprit).

법정에서 피고의 무죄를 증거했습니다.
(I testified to the defendant's innocence in court.)

When inanimate objects act as the subject, 증거하다 takes on a metaphorical meaning of 'showing' or 'indicating.' For instance, a high fever 'testifies' to an infection. In such cases, the subject is the evidence itself.

이 화석은 고대 생물의 존재를 증거한다.
(This fossil testifies to the existence of ancient creatures.)

In complex sentences, 증거하다 can be used with connective particles like -면서 (while testifying) or -기 때문에 (because [it] testifies). It is also frequently transformed into an adjective using -하는 to describe a 'testifying' person or thing (e.g., 증거하는 사람 - the person who testifies).

그는 자신의 신념을 삶으로 증거하고 싶어 합니다.
(He wants to testify to his beliefs through his life.)

One common mistake is using it interchangeably with 증언하다. While 증언하다 is strictly verbal (speaking in court), 증거하다 is broader and can include physical proof or life actions. Use 증거하다 when you want to emphasize the validity of the proof itself, rather than just the act of speaking.

If you are in Korea, you are unlikely to hear 증거하다 while ordering coffee or shopping for clothes. However, it is a staple in specific high-stakes environments. Here is where the word truly lives:

1. The News and Legal Dramas (K-Dramas)
In dramas like 'Stranger' (비밀의 숲) or 'Law School,' characters often discuss whether a certain piece of evidence can 'testify' to a crime. You'll hear phrases like '이 물건이 그의 범죄를 증거합니다' (This object testifies to his crime).
2. Religious Gatherings
In Korean churches, '증거하다' is used constantly. A pastor might ask the congregation to '증거하는 삶을 사십시오' (Live a life that bears witness [to the faith]). It is a call to action and integrity.
3. Academic Lectures and Documentaries
When a narrator describes historical findings, they will use 증거하다 to explain how a discovery supports a theory. '이 유적은 당시의 문화를 증거합니다' (This relic testifies to the culture of that time).

뉴스는 경찰이 새로운 증거를 통해 그의 혐의를 증거했다고 보도했다.
(The news reported that the police testified to his charges through new evidence.)

You might also see it in formal letters or petitions where someone is trying to prove their innocence or clarify a situation. It signals that the speaker is being serious and factual. It is the language of 'official truth.'

In the context of social justice movements in Korea, survivors often '증거' the atrocities they faced. Their testimonies are seen as a powerful tool for historical correction. In these moments, the word is heavy with emotion and the weight of history.

할머니의 증언은 역사의 아픔을 증거하고 있습니다.
(The grandmother's testimony is bearing witness to the pain of history.)

Because 증거하다 sounds similar to other 'proof' related words, learners often mix them up. Understanding these distinctions is key to sounding natural.

1. 증거하다 vs. 증명하다 (The most common error)
증명하다 (jeung-myeong-ha-da) is used for logical, mathematical, or scientific proof. You '증명' a math theorem or a scientific hypothesis. 증거하다 is for 'witnessing' or 'testifying' to a fact or experience. You don't '증거' a math problem.
2. 증거하다 vs. 증언하다
증언하다 (jeung-eon-ha-da) specifically means to 'testify verbally' (using words). 증거하다 is more general and can include the presence of physical evidence or the way one lives. If you are just talking in court, use 증언하다.
3. Confusion with '증가하다' (Increase)
Beginners often confuse 증거하다 with 증가하다 (jeung-ga-ha-da), which means 'to increase.' They sound similar, but their meanings are entirely unrelated. Be careful with the 'geo' vs 'ga' vowel!

❌ 수학 문제를 증거하다 (Incorrect - should be 증명하다)
✅ 진실을 증거하다 (Correct)

Another mistake is using 증거하다 in overly casual situations. If you want to say 'I can prove I was at home yesterday' to a friend, 증명할 수 있어 is better. 증거하다 sounds like you are preparing for a trial or giving a sermon.

❌ 내가 어제 집에 있었다는 걸 증거할게.
✅ 내가 어제 집에 있었다는 걸 증명할게.

Korean has many words related to 'proof' and 'showing.' Depending on the nuance you want, you might choose one of these instead of 증거하다.

증명하다 (To Prove)
Used for logic, science, and math. It is about 'making it clear' through demonstration. Example: 이론을 증명하다 (To prove a theory).
입증하다 (To Substantiate/Verify)
Very common in professional contexts like journalism or law. It means to provide solid evidence that confirms a claim. Example: 혐의를 입증하다 (To substantiate charges).
증언하다 (To Testify Verbally)
Strictly about speaking. Example: 목격자가 증언하다 (The eyewitness testifies).
나타내다 (To Show/Express)
A more general word for showing a feeling or state. Example: 기쁨을 나타내다 (To show joy).

실험 결과가 가설을 입증했습니다.
(The experiment results substantiated the hypothesis.)

When deciding which word to use, look at the source of the 'proof.' Is it a person's life and words? Use 증거하다. Is it a lab report? Use 입증하다 or 증명하다. Is it just a person talking? Use 증언하다.

Historically, 증거하다 was often used in classical literature to describe how the heavens or the earth 'witness' human behavior. This poetic sense is still felt today in literature, making it a more 'beautiful' word than the clinical 증명하다.

How Formal Is It?

Wusstest du?

In ancient times, '증거' referred to the physical tools used to verify contracts, such as a split piece of wood or a tally. '증거하다' was the act of bringing those pieces together to show they matched.

Aussprachehilfe

UK /t͡ɕɯŋ.ɡʌ.ɦa.da/
US /t͡ɕʊŋ.ɡɔ.hɑ.dɑ/
The primary stress is on the first syllable '증' (jeung).
Reimt sich auf
근거하다 (geun-geo-ha-da) - To be based on 의거하다 (ui-geo-ha-da) - To be based on/according to 항거하다 (hang-geo-ha-da) - To resist 동거하다 (dong-geo-ha-da) - To live together 거주하다 (geo-ju-ha-da) - To reside 과거 (gwa-geo) - Past 선거 (seon-geo) - Election 제거 (je-geo) - Removal
Häufige Fehler
  • Confusing 'eo' (ㅓ) with 'o' (ㅗ). It's 'jeung-geo', not 'jeung-go'.
  • Pronouncing 'g' (ㄱ) as a strong English 'k'. It should be a soft 'g'.
  • Over-emphasizing the 'h' in 'hada'. In fast speech, it often becomes nearly silent.
  • Incorrectly nasalizing the 'ng' sound so it sounds like 'n'.
  • Confusing it with 'jeung-ga-ha-da' (increase).

Schwierigkeitsgrad

Lesen 3/5

Common in literature and news, but requires understanding of Hanja-based nouns.

Schreiben 4/5

Hard to use naturally without confusing it with '증명하다'.

Sprechen 4/5

Mainly used in formal speeches or serious discussions.

Hören 3/5

Easy to recognize once the root '증거' is known.

Was du als Nächstes lernen solltest

Voraussetzungen

증거 (Evidence) 하다 (To do) 진실 (Truth) 보여주다 (To show) 말하다 (To say)

Als Nächstes lernen

증명하다 (To prove) 입증하다 (To substantiate) 증언하다 (To testify verbally) 확증 (Corroboration)

Fortgeschritten

방증하다 (To provide circumstantial evidence) 반증하다 (To provide counter-evidence) 검증하다 (To verify/inspect)

Wichtige Grammatik

Noun + 을/를 + 증거하다

사실을 증거하다.

Clause + -음을 + 증거하다

그가 결백함을 증거하다.

Clause + -고 + 증거하다

그가 범인이라고 증거하다.

Noun + -이/가 + 증거가 되다

이 사진이 증거가 된다.

Present Progressive -고 있다

유물이 역사를 증거하고 있다.

Beispiele nach Niveau

1

진실을 증거해요.

I testify to the truth.

Present tense polite form.

2

그는 사랑을 증거했어요.

He testified to his love.

Past tense polite form.

3

이것은 내 마음을 증거해요.

This testifies to my heart.

Inanimate subject with '증거하다'.

4

우리는 함께 증거해요.

We testify together.

Plural subject.

5

사실을 증거하세요.

Please testify to the facts.

Imperative polite form.

6

꽃이 봄을 증거해요.

The flowers testify to spring.

Metaphorical usage.

7

그녀는 믿음을 증거해요.

She testifies to her faith.

Abstract noun as object.

8

사진이 그때를 증거해요.

The photo testifies to that time.

Noun as subject.

1

나는 그가 착한 사람임을 증거합니다.

I testify that he is a good person.

Using -임을 (fact that) as an object.

2

이 문서는 역사를 증거하고 있습니다.

This document is testifying to history.

-고 있다 (present progressive).

3

너의 행동이 너의 생각을 증거해.

Your actions testify to your thoughts.

Informal ending -어.

4

우리는 정의를 증거해야 합니다.

We must testify to justice.

-해야 하다 (must).

5

그의 성공은 노력을 증거합니다.

His success testifies to his effort.

Formal polite form -ㅂ니다.

6

목격자가 사건을 증거할 거예요.

The witness will testify to the incident.

Future tense -ㄹ 거예요.

7

이 상처는 그날의 아픔을 증거해요.

This scar testifies to the pain of that day.

Emotional context.

8

친구의 말이 내 결백을 증거해 주었어요.

My friend's words testified to my innocence.

-어 주다 (do for someone).

1

그의 삶 자체가 진리를 증거하고 있었다.

His life itself was testifying to the truth.

Past progressive.

2

이 유적지는 과거의 영광을 증거한다.

This heritage site testifies to past glory.

Plain style -ㄴ다.

3

피고인은 자신의 무죄를 증거하기 위해 노력했다.

The defendant tried to testify to his innocence.

-하기 위해 (in order to).

4

예술은 시대의 정신을 증거하는 거울이다.

Art is a mirror that testifies to the spirit of the times.

Attributive form -하는.

5

그녀의 눈빛은 떨림을 증거하고 있었다.

Her eyes were testifying to her trembling (nervousness).

Literary usage.

6

우리는 이 땅의 평화를 증거하는 자들입니다.

We are those who testify to the peace of this land.

Noun phrase '증거하는 자들'.

7

과학적 데이터가 기후 변화를 증거합니다.

Scientific data testifies to climate change.

Formal usage in science.

8

그의 침묵은 오히려 유죄를 증거하는 것 같았다.

His silence seemed rather to testify to his guilt.

-는 것 같다 (seems like).

1

성경은 하나님의 사랑을 증거하는 책으로 알려져 있다.

The Bible is known as a book that testifies to God's love.

Passive construction '알려져 있다'.

2

현장의 발자국이 범인의 도주 경로를 증거했다.

The footprints at the scene testified to the culprit's escape route.

Forensic context.

3

이 건축물은 당시의 뛰어난 기술력을 증거한다.

This building testifies to the outstanding technology of that time.

Inanimate subject '건축물'.

4

그는 고문을 당하면서도 진실을 증거하기를 포기하지 않았다.

He did not give up testifying to the truth even while being tortured.

-면서도 (even while).

5

작가는 소설을 통해 인간의 존엄성을 증거하고자 했다.

The author intended to testify to human dignity through the novel.

-고자 하다 (intend to).

6

화석 기록은 진화의 과정을 명확히 증거하고 있다.

Fossil records clearly testify to the process of evolution.

Adverb '명확히' (clearly).

7

그의 헌신적인 활동은 공동체의 변화를 증거한다.

His dedicated activities testify to the change in the community.

Abstract subject-object relationship.

8

이 노래 가사는 청춘의 아픔을 증거하고 있다.

The lyrics of this song testify to the pain of youth.

Cultural context.

1

역사가는 사료를 통해 침묵하는 자들의 목소리를 증거해야 한다.

Historians must testify to the voices of the silent through historical materials.

Professional duty context.

2

이러한 현상은 우리 사회의 도덕적 해이를 증거하는 단면이다.

This phenomenon is a cross-section that testifies to the moral hazard of our society.

Sociological analysis.

3

문학은 인간 존재의 근원적인 고독을 증거하는 매체이다.

Literature is a medium that testifies to the fundamental loneliness of human existence.

Philosophical definition.

4

그의 시는 시대의 어둠 속에서도 빛의 존재를 증거했다.

His poetry testified to the existence of light even in the darkness of the times.

Metaphorical/Poetic.

5

법정에서의 증언은 진실을 증거하는 가장 강력한 수단이다.

Testimony in court is the most powerful means of testifying to the truth.

Legal principle.

6

자연의 질서는 창조주의 지혜를 증거한다고 믿는 사람들이 있다.

There are people who believe that the order of nature testifies to the wisdom of the Creator.

Indirect speech '-고 믿다'.

7

이 보고서는 기업의 부패가 얼마나 심각한지를 증거하고 있다.

This report testifies to how serious corporate corruption is.

Interrogative clause '-한지를'.

8

살아남은 자들은 죽은 자들의 억울함을 증거할 의무가 있다.

The survivors have an obligation to testify to the injustice suffered by the dead.

Moral obligation.

1

해당 유물은 고대 문명의 흥망성쇠를 묵묵히 증거하고 있다.

The artifact silently testifies to the rise and fall of ancient civilizations.

Adverb '묵묵히' (silently).

2

존재의 유한성은 역설적으로 생의 소중함을 증거한다.

The finitude of existence paradoxically testifies to the preciousness of life.

Philosophical paradox.

3

그의 일관된 행보는 그가 추구해온 가치를 증거하기에 충분했다.

His consistent actions were sufficient to testify to the values he has pursued.

-하기에 충분하다 (sufficient to).

4

언어는 한 민족의 정체성과 얼을 증거하는 가장 근본적인 토대이다.

Language is the most fundamental foundation that testifies to the identity and soul of a people.

Cultural-linguistic theory.

5

이 비극적 사건은 인간의 잔혹성을 증거하는 동시에 연민의 필요성을 역설한다.

This tragic event testifies to human cruelty while simultaneously emphasizing the need for compassion.

-하는 동시에 (at the same time).

6

진리는 스스로를 증거하며, 외부의 증명을 필요로 하지 않는다.

Truth testifies to itself and does not require external proof.

Ontological statement.

7

역사의 소용돌이 속에서 개인의 삶은 시대의 비극을 증거하는 기록이 된다.

In the whirlpool of history, an individual's life becomes a record testifying to the tragedy of the times.

Complex metaphor.

8

이 헌법 조항은 민주주의의 근간을 증거하는 핵심적인 가치를 담고 있다.

This constitutional provision contains core values that testify to the foundation of democracy.

Political science context.

Häufige Kollokationen

진실을 증거하다
무죄를 증거하다
사랑을 증거하다
역사를 증거하다
사실을 증거하다
신앙을 증거하다
범죄를 증거하다
존재를 증거하다
가치를 증거하다
변화를 증거하다

Häufige Phrasen

증거하는 삶

— A life that serves as a witness to one's beliefs or values.

그는 증거하는 삶을 살고 싶어 한다.

증거할 수 없는

— Something that cannot be proven or testified to.

그것은 증거할 수 없는 주장에 불과하다.

증거하기 위해

— In order to testify or provide proof.

그는 법정에 증거하기 위해 나섰다.

확실히 증거하다

— To testify or prove something clearly and definitely.

이 결과는 효과를 확실히 증거한다.

묵묵히 증거하다

— To bear witness silently through one's presence or existence.

오래된 나무가 마을의 역사를 묵묵히 증거한다.

온몸으로 증거하다

— To testify with one's whole being or through intense physical struggle.

그는 온몸으로 시대의 아픔을 증거했다.

삶으로 증거하다

— To prove one's convictions through the way one lives.

말보다 삶으로 증거하는 것이 더 중요하다.

역사가 증거하다

— A phrase used to mean that the passage of time will prove the truth.

누가 옳은지는 역사가 증거할 것이다.

현장이 증거하다

— The physical location itself provides the proof.

참혹한 현장이 사고의 심각성을 증거했다.

눈물이 증거하다

— One's tears serve as proof of their sincerity or pain.

그녀의 눈물이 진심을 증거했다.

Wird oft verwechselt mit

증거하다 vs 증명하다

Used for logical/scientific proof, whereas 증거하다 is for witnessing/testifying.

증거하다 vs 증언하다

Strictly verbal testimony, while 증거하다 can include physical evidence.

증거하다 vs 증가하다

Means 'to increase'; sounds similar but unrelated.

Redewendungen & Ausdrücke

"하늘이 증거하다"

— Heaven (or God) is my witness; used to emphasize absolute truth.

내가 결백하다는 것은 하늘이 증거한다.

Literary/Dramatic
"피로 증거하다"

— To testify through sacrifice or even death (martyrdom).

그는 자신의 신념을 피로 증거했다.

High-Formal
"말보다 행동이 증거하다"

— Actions speak louder than words (Actions testify more than words).

그의 성실함은 말보다 행동이 증거한다.

Common
"침묵이 증거하다"

— When silence itself serves as a powerful testimony or admission.

때로는 침묵이 더 많은 것을 증거한다.

Literary
"역사가 증거할 것이다"

— History will be the judge; history will reveal the truth.

우리의 선택이 옳았는지는 역사가 증거할 것이다.

Formal
"만물이 증거하다"

— All of creation testifies (often to a creator or natural order).

대자연의 아름다움이 신의 존재를 증거한다.

Religious/Poetic
"온 세상이 증거하다"

— The whole world can see the truth; it is undeniable.

그의 공로는 온 세상이 증거하는 바이다.

Formal
"눈앞의 사실이 증거하다"

— The facts right in front of one's eyes provide the proof.

눈앞의 사실이 그의 거짓말을 증거하고 있다.

Neutral
"뼈아픈 증거"

— Painful evidence (used with '하다' to mean 'to testify painfully').

이 흉터는 뼈아픈 과거를 증거한다.

Emotive
"산 증거"

— Living proof (used with '하다' to mean 'to be a living witness').

그는 그 사건의 산 증거이다.

Common

Leicht verwechselbar

증거하다 vs 증가하다

Phonetic similarity.

증가하다 means to increase in number or amount, while 증거하다 means to testify.

인구가 증가하다 (Population increases) vs 진실을 증거하다 (Testify to the truth).

증거하다 vs 증명하다

Semantic overlap (both relate to 'proof').

증명하다 is about demonstration and logic (e.g., math); 증거하다 is about bearing witness (e.g., in court or life).

수학 문제를 증명하다 vs 사랑을 증거하다.

증거하다 vs 증언하다

Both used in legal contexts.

증언하다 is specifically speaking words; 증거하다 is the broader act of providing proof (can be an object).

법정에서 증언하다 vs 칼이 범죄를 증거하다.

증거하다 vs 전거하다

Rare word, phonetic similarity.

전거하다 (典據-) means to base something on an authoritative source (rarely used).

문헌에 전거하다.

증거하다 vs 징계하다

Phonetic similarity.

징계하다 means to discipline or punish.

학생을 징계하다.

Satzmuster

A1

N을/를 증거해요.

진실을 증거해요.

A2

N이/가 N을/를 증거합니다.

이 사진이 그때를 증거합니다.

B1

V-음을 증거하다

그가 왔음을 증거하다.

B2

N을/를 통해 N을/를 증거하다

삶을 통해 믿음을 증거하다.

C1

N이/가 N을/를 증거하는 단면이다

이것이 사회를 증거하는 단면이다.

C1

N을/를 증거할 의무가 있다

진실을 증거할 의무가 있다.

C2

N에 의거하여 N을/를 증거하다

사료에 의거하여 역사를 증거하다.

C2

묵묵히 N을/를 증거하고 있다

유물이 역사를 묵묵히 증거하고 있다.

Wortfamilie

Substantive

증거 Evidence, proof
증언 Testimony (verbal)
증인 Witness (person)
증거물 Physical evidence

Verben

증명하다 To prove
증언하다 To testify
입증하다 To substantiate

Adjektive

증거가 확실한 Having clear evidence

Verwandt

법정 (Courtroom)
진실 (Truth)
사실 (Fact)
확신 (Conviction)
기록 (Record)

So verwendest du es

frequency

Medium-High in formal/written contexts; Low in casual speech.

Häufige Fehler
  • Using '증거하다' for math/logic. 증명하다

    Logic requires '증명', while facts/witnessing require '증거'.

  • Confusing with '증가하다'. 증거하다

    One is 'increase', the other is 'testify'. Check the vowels!

  • Using in casual speech. 보여주다/말하다

    It sounds too stiff for a casual conversation with friends.

  • Omitting the object marker. 진실을 증거하다

    It is a transitive verb and needs an object marker.

  • Confusing with '증언하다' for physical objects. 증거하다

    An object cannot '증언' (speak), but it can '증거' (testify/show).

Tipps

Think Legal

When you want to sound like you are presenting a solid case, use '증거하다'.

Object Marker

Don't forget the -을/를 marker for the truth you are testifying to.

Life as Evidence

Remember that in Korea, your actions can '증거하다' your character.

Soft 'G'

The 'g' in 'geo' should be soft, not a hard 'k' sound.

Hanja Roots

Learn 證 (prove) to unlock dozens of other related words.

Religious Context

If you go to a Korean church, you will hear this word in every sermon.

Essay Power

Use it in TOPIK essays to increase your score for formal vocabulary.

Drama Clues

Listen for this word during the 'big reveal' scenes in mysteries.

Jungle Proof

Use the 'Jungle' mnemonic to never forget the meaning.

Historical Weight

Understand that 'testifying' is a powerful social act in Korean history.

Einprägen

Eselsbrücke

Imagine a 'Jungle' (Jeung-geo). To survive in the jungle, you need 'proof' or 'evidence' of where the water is. You 'testify' (증거하다) to your friends about the safe path.

Visuelle Assoziation

Picture a witness in a courtroom holding a magnifying glass over a footprint. The magnifying glass is the 'jeung-geo' and the act of pointing is 'hada'.

Word Web

Evidence Truth Witness Court Faith History Proof Reality

Herausforderung

Write three sentences about a historical event using '증거하다' to describe how artifacts prove what happened.

Wortherkunft

Derived from the Hanja (Sino-Korean) roots 證據 (증거) and the native Korean verb 하다 (to do). 證 (증) means 'to prove/verify' and 據 (거) means 'to rely on/basis'.

Ursprüngliche Bedeutung: To act as a basis for verification or to provide the foundation for proof.

Sino-Korean (Hanja-derived)

Kultureller Kontext

When using it regarding historical traumas, it should be used with respect as it implies the weight of truth-telling.

In English, 'testify' is mostly legal or religious. 'Bear witness' is more poetic. '증거하다' covers both of these bases.

The Bible (Korean translation) uses '증거하다' extensively. Legal dramas like 'Stranger' use it for forensic evidence. Historical documentaries about the Joseon Dynasty.

Im Alltag üben

Kontexte aus dem Alltag

Courtroom

  • 증거를 제시하다
  • 무죄를 증거하다
  • 유죄를 증거하다
  • 증인으로 나서다

Religious Service

  • 복음을 증거하다
  • 믿음을 증거하다
  • 은혜를 증거하다
  • 증거하는 삶

Academic Research

  • 이론을 증거하다
  • 가설을 증거하다
  • 데이터로 증거하다
  • 현상을 증거하다

History/Archeology

  • 과거를 증거하다
  • 문명을 증거하다
  • 유물이 증거하다
  • 기록이 증거하다

Personal Relationships

  • 진심을 증거하다
  • 사랑을 증거하다
  • 결백을 증거하다
  • 행동으로 증거하다

Gesprächseinstiege

"당신의 노력을 무엇이 가장 잘 증거한다고 생각하시나요?"

"법정에서 누군가를 위해 증거해 본 적이 있나요?"

"이 사진이 우리의 우정을 증거하는 것 같지 않나요?"

"역사적으로 가장 중요한 것을 증거하는 유물은 무엇일까요?"

"말보다 행동으로 증거하는 것이 왜 더 힘들까요?"

Tagebuch-Impulse

오늘 하루 나의 행동이 나의 가치관을 어떻게 증거했는지 써보세요.

내가 만약 역사의 목격자라면, 후세에 무엇을 증거하고 싶은지 적어보세요.

누군가의 진심을 증거하기 위해 내가 할 수 있는 일은 무엇일까요?

나의 성장을 증거하는 작은 변화들에 대해 기록해 보세요.

세상의 아름다움을 증거하는 자연의 모습들을 묘사해 보세요.

Häufig gestellte Fragen

10 Fragen

No, you should use '증명하다'. '증거하다' is for witnessing or providing evidence for facts/truths, not for logical derivations.

Usually no. It sounds very formal. Use '보여주다' (show) or '말하다' (say) in casual settings.

'증거' is the noun (evidence), and '증거하다' is the verb (to testify/provide evidence).

Yes, especially in legal, medical, or historical dramas where truth is being sought.

Yes! For example, '이 반지가 우리의 약속을 증거해요' (This ring testifies to our promise).

Yes, to describe how data or results 'testify' to a certain market trend.

You can say '증거할게요' (polite) or '증거하겠습니다' (formal).

Yes, '증인' (witness) is the person who '증거하다' (testifies).

Yes, in a poetic or serious way, like '내 눈물이 내 슬픔을 증거해'.

Yes, it frequently appears in intermediate and advanced TOPIK reading and writing sections.

Teste dich selbst 200 Fragen

writing

Translate: 'I will testify to the truth in court.'

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Write a sentence using '사랑을 증거하다'.

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate: 'These artifacts testify to ancient history.'

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Write a sentence using '증거하는 삶'.

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate: 'History will testify to our courage.'

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Write a sentence using '증거하기 위해'.

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate: 'His tears testify to his sincerity.'

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Write a sentence using '증거하고 있다'.

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate: 'Actions testify more than words.'

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Write a sentence using '증거물'.

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate: 'I testify that he is innocent.'

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Write a sentence using '묵묵히 증거하다'.

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate: 'We must testify to the peace.'

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Write a sentence using '하늘이 증거하다'.

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate: 'This fossil testifies to the existence of dinosaurs.'

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Write a sentence using '증거할 수 없다'.

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate: 'The witness testified clearly.'

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Write a sentence using '삶으로 증거하다'.

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate: 'The report testifies to the company's success.'

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Write a sentence using '증거해 주다'.

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Describe a time when your actions '증거하다' (testified to) your character.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

How would you '증거하다' your love for your family?

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

What kind of objects in your room '증거하다' your hobbies?

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

If you were a witness in court, how would you '증거하다' the truth?

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Why is it important for history to '증거하다' the past accurately?

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Talk about a '증거하는 삶' (testifying life) of a famous person you admire.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

How does nature '증거하다' the change of seasons in your country?

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

What evidence would you use to '증거하다' that Korean food is delicious?

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Can silence '증거하다' something? Give an example.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

How do your grades '증거하다' your effort at school?

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

What does a museum '증거하다'?

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

How can a friend '증거해 주다' (testify for) you?

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

What would you say if you wanted to '증거하다' your innocence?

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

How do photos '증거하다' our memories?

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

In what way does art '증거하다' the spirit of the times?

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Is it better to '증거하다' with words or actions?

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

What does a scar '증거하다'?

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

How do scientific results '증거하다' a theory?

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

What does '하늘이 증거하다' mean to you?

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

How can you '증거하다' your progress in learning Korean?

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen to the sentence: '진실을 증거하는 것이 우리의 사명입니다.' What is our mission?

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

Listen: '그의 행동이 그의 말을 증거한다.' What is testifying to his words?

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

Listen: '법정에서 무죄를 증거했습니다.' Where did the testimony happen?

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

Listen: '이 유물은 고구려의 역사를 증거합니다.' What history does the artifact testify to?

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

Listen: '사랑을 증거하는 삶을 사세요.' What kind of life should you live?

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

Listen: '데이터가 효과를 증거하고 있어요.' What is the data doing?

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

Listen: '사진이 그때의 행복을 증거해요.' What does the photo show?

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

Listen: '증인이 사건을 증거할 것입니다.' Who will testify?

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

Listen: '그의 눈물이 진심을 증거했다.' What did the tears show?

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

Listen: '역사가 우리의 선택을 증거할 거야.' What will testify to our choice?

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

Listen: '증거가 확실합니다.' How is the evidence described?

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

Listen: '신앙을 증거하기 위해 떠났습니다.' Why did they leave?

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

Listen: '이 상처가 그날을 증거해.' What does the scar do?

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

Listen: '침묵은 유죄를 증거하지 않습니다.' Does silence testify to guilt?

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

Listen: '온몸으로 진리를 증거했다.' How was the truth testified to?

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

/ 200 correct

Perfect score!

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