Esta página en tu idioma

English

فارسی

العربية

Deutsch

Français

日本語

한국어

Português

中文

हिन्दी

B1 noun #7,000 más común 8 min de lectura

발명

Top 7,000

Practícalo Ejemplos Notas y consejos 발명 en 30 segundos

Explicación 발명 in your Level:

At the A1 level, you only need to know that '발명' (bal-myeong) means 'invention.' You might see it in simple books about famous people like Thomas Edison. Think of it as 'making a new thing.' You can use it with the verb '하다' (to do) to say '발명하다' (to invent). For example, '에디슨은 전구를 발명했어요' (Edison invented the lightbulb). Don't worry about complex grammar yet; just remember that it's for new machines and cool gadgets. It is a noun, so you can say '이것은 발명이에요' (This is an invention). You might hear this word when talking about your hobbies or what you want to be in the future, like '저는 발명가가 되고 싶어요' (I want to be an inventor). It's a fun word that opens up conversations about creativity and history even at the very beginning of your Korean journey.

Regístrate gratis para leer la explicación completa

At the A2 level, you can start using '발명' in more varied sentences. You should understand the difference between '발명' (invention) and '발견' (discovery). You might say '불은 발견되었고, 성냥은 발명되었어요' (Fire was discovered, and matches were invented). You can also use the word with simple adjectives like '좋은 발명' (good invention) or '새로운 발명' (new invention). You will likely encounter this word in reading passages about Korean history, specifically about King Sejong and Hangeul. You can start using the past tense '발명했다' (invented) and the future tense '발명할 것이다' (will invent). It's also a good time to learn the word '발명가' (inventor) and '발명품' (invented product). If you go to a museum in Korea, you will see these words on many signs. Practice by talking about your favorite invention: '제가 제일 좋아하는 발명은 스마트폰이에요' (My favorite invention is the smartphone).

Regístrate gratis para leer la explicación completa

At the B1 level, you should be comfortable using '발명' in both active and passive forms. The passive form '발명되다' (to be invented) is very common when discussing history or technology. For example, '컴퓨터는 언제 발명되었나요?' (When was the computer invented?). You should also be able to use '발명' as a noun in more complex structures, such as using the particle '의' to show possession or relationship: '인터넷의 발명 이후로 세상이 변했어요' (Since the invention of the internet, the world has changed). You can also start using it with more descriptive adverbs like '우연히 발명되다' (to be invented by accident) or '최초로 발명되다' (to be invented for the first time). This is the level where you start to see the word in news articles or slightly more advanced documentaries. You should also be able to distinguish '발명' from '개발' (development) in professional contexts. For instance, a company 'invents' a new technology but 'develops' a product for consumers.

At the B2 level, you can use '발명' to discuss abstract concepts and societal impacts. You might participate in a debate about whether certain '발명' (inventions) have been beneficial or harmful to humanity. You should be familiar with related formal terms like '특허' (patent) and '지적 재산권' (intellectual property). You can use '발명' in sophisticated sentence patterns like '~함에 따라 발명되었다' (was invented as a result of...). For example, '필요에 따라 많은 기계들이 발명되었습니다' (Many machines were invented according to necessity). You should also understand the nuance of '발명' in literature and academic texts, where it might refer to the 'invention of a tradition' or the 'invention of an identity.' Your vocabulary should expand to include '발명왕' (king of inventors) and '직무 발명' (employee invention). You can now read technical reports about new scientific breakthroughs where '발명' is used to describe the core innovation of a research paper.

Regístrate gratis para leer la explicación completa

At the C1 level, you use '발명' with high precision and in highly formal or academic contexts. You can discuss the legalities of '발명 특허' (invention patents) and the nuances of '창조적 발명' (creative invention) versus '개량 발명' (improvement invention). You should be able to write essays analyzing the '발명의 역사적 의의' (historical significance of an invention). You can use the word in idiomatic or metaphorical ways, such as '필요는 발명의 어머니' (Necessity is the mother of invention). You will encounter this word in legal documents, patent applications, and philosophical treatises on technology. You should be able to explain the difference between '발명' and '고안' (utility model/device) in the context of Korean patent law. Your usage should reflect an understanding of the word's Hanja roots, allowing you to intuitively understand related words like '발명가' or '발명품' without searching for definitions. You can engage in complex discussions about the ethics of certain inventions, like AI or genetic engineering.

Regístrate gratis para leer la explicación completa

At the C2 level, '발명' is a tool for nuanced expression. You can use it to critique the very concept of 'invention' in a postmodern context, discussing how societies 'invent' truths or narratives. You are comfortable with the most archaic or specialized uses of the word found in classical literature or high-level legal discourse. You can effortlessly switch between '발명,' '창안,' '고안,' and '창조' to convey exact shades of meaning in a research thesis or a keynote speech. You understand the socio-economic implications of '발명' in the global market and can discuss '국가적 발명 전략' (national invention strategies). Your command of the word includes understanding its role in the 'History of Ideas,' and you can use it to describe the 'invention of the modern self' or similar complex topics. At this level, the word is not just a vocabulary item but a concept you can manipulate to express deep intellectual insights.

Regístrate gratis para leer la explicación completa

Practícalo Ejemplos Notas y consejos

발명 en 30 segundos

발명 (bal-myeong) means 'invention' in Korean, specifically referring to the creation of new devices or methods.
It is a Sino-Korean word used in both everyday conversation and formal technical contexts.
Commonly paired with '하다' to mean 'to invent' (발명하다) or '되다' to mean 'to be invented' (발명되다).
It is distinct from '발견' (discovery), which refers to finding something that already existed.

The Korean word 발명 (bal-myeong) is a noun that translates directly to 'invention' in English. It refers to the act of creating something entirely new—be it a physical device, a unique process, or a groundbreaking system—that did not exist previously. In the hierarchy of creative vocabulary, 발명 sits at the pinnacle of technical and scientific achievement. Unlike 'discovery' (발견), which refers to finding something that already existed in nature, 발명 implies the application of human intelligence and effort to synthesize new utility.

Technical Application: In professional and academic settings, 발명 is used to discuss patents, intellectual property, and technological breakthroughs. It is the standard term used in the 'Korean Intellectual Property Office' (특허청).
Everyday Usage: In casual conversation, it is often used to praise someone's clever solution to a problem. For example, if a child creates a new way to organize toys, a parent might jokingly call them a 'little inventor' (꼬마 발명가).

에디슨은 전구를 발명한 것으로 유명합니다. (Edison is famous for inventing the lightbulb.)

The cultural weight of this word in Korea is significant. Korea prides itself on its history of innovation, frequently citing the Cheugugi (rain gauge) or Geobukseon (turtle ship) as historical 발명품 (invented products). This sense of national pride often infuses the word with a tone of respect and admiration. When you use this word, you are acknowledging the transition from non-existence to existence through human ingenuity.

세종대왕은 한글이라는 위대한 발명을 하셨습니다. (King Sejong made the great invention known as Hangeul.)

Social Context: In modern South Korea, the 'invention' of new food trends (like specific fried chicken sauces) is sometimes playfully referred to as a 'great invention,' showing how the word has shifted from purely scientific to cultural contexts.

Ultimately, 발명 is about 'bringing light' to a new concept. The Hanja characters (發 - to emit/happen and 明 - bright/clear) suggest that an invention makes a new path or idea clear to the world. It is a word of progress, intelligence, and legacy.

Using 발명 correctly requires understanding its grammatical flexibility as both a standalone noun and a component of the verb 발명하다 (to invent). Because it is a Sino-Korean word, it follows the standard pattern of adding 하다 to turn the concept into an action. However, the nuances change depending on whether you are using the active voice (inventing) or the passive voice (being invented).

그 과학자는 새로운 에너지원을 발명하려고 노력하고 있어요. (That scientist is trying to invent a new energy source.)

Active Voice (발명하다): This is the most common form. It requires an object marked with 을/를. Example: '그는 새로운 기계를 발명했다' (He invented a new machine).
Passive Voice (발명되다): When the focus is on the object rather than the creator, use 되다. Example: '전화기는 19세기에 발명되었다' (The telephone was invented in the 19th century).

When using 발명 as a noun, it often pairs with the particle 의 (possessive) or is combined with other nouns to form compound words. Common compounds include 발명가 (inventor), 발명품 (invention/product), and 발명 대회 (invention contest). In formal writing, such as news reports or history books, you will frequently see the construction '[Noun]의 발명' (The invention of [Noun]).

인터넷의 발명은 세상을 완전히 바꾸어 놓았습니다. (The invention of the internet has completely changed the world.)

In more advanced contexts, you might use the word to describe abstract concepts. For instance, '언어의 발명' (the invention of language) or '민주주의의 발명' (the invention of democracy). While these aren't physical machines, the word 발명 emphasizes the creative, human-constructed nature of these systems.

Common Adjectives: 위대한 발명 (great invention), 획기적인 발명 (groundbreaking invention), 우연한 발명 (accidental invention).

You will encounter 발명 in several distinct environments in South Korea. The first and most common is the educational system. From elementary school onwards, Korean students are taught about the 'History of Science,' where the achievements of historical figures like Jang Yeong-sil are highlighted. You'll hear teachers say, '누가 이것을 발명했나요?' (Who invented this?) frequently in these settings.

오늘 수업 시간에는 조선 시대의 발명품들에 대해 배우겠습니다. (In today's class, we will learn about the inventions of the Joseon Dynasty.)

Media and Documentaries: Educational channels like EBS (Educational Broadcasting System) often feature programs dedicated to the 'World's Greatest Inventions.' The narrator will use formal language (Hasipsio-che) to describe the impact of these inventions on humanity.
Business and Tech News: When a company like Samsung or LG files a new patent, news anchors will report on the '새로운 발명' (new invention) or '특허 발명' (patented invention). This context is usually very formal and emphasizes economic competitiveness.

Another interesting place you'll hear this word is in 'Invention Contests' (발명 대회), which are very popular among students and hobbyists in Korea. These events are often sponsored by the government to foster a 'creative economy.' You might hear a contestant explain, '제 발명의 핵심은...' (The core of my invention is...).

이번 발명 대회에서 대상을 받은 학생은 아주 창의적인 발명을 했습니다. (The student who won the grand prize at this invention contest made a very creative invention.)

In casual pop culture, such as variety shows (like 'Infinite Challenge' in the past), members might be challenged to create '생활 발명' (lifestyle inventions)—funny or quirky gadgets to solve minor inconveniences. Here, the word is used more loosely and playfully, often for comedic effect when the 'invention' inevitably fails.

The most frequent mistake English speakers make when using 발명 is confusing it with 발견 (bal-gyeon), which means 'discovery.' While they sound similar and both start with '발' (to emit/reveal), their logical applications are opposite. You 발명 (invent) something that did not exist (like the steam engine), but you 발견 (discover) something that was already there but unknown (like a new planet or a scientific law).

[Incorrect] 콜럼버스는 아메리카를 발명했다. (Columbus invented America.)
[Correct] 콜럼버스는 아메리카를 발견했다. (Columbus discovered America.)

Mistake 1: Confusing with 'Development' (개발): Learners often say '앱을 발명했다' (invented an app). While technically possible if it's a completely new category, Koreans usually use '개발했다' (developed) for software and applications.
Mistake 2: Confusing with 'Creation' (창조/창작): For artistic works like paintings, stories, or music, use '창작' (creative work) or '작곡' (composition). Calling a song a '발명' sounds very strange and mechanical.

Another subtle mistake is the incorrect use of particles. Because 발명 is a noun, you cannot say '그는 전구 발명했다.' You must either use the object particle '전구를 발명했다' or the full verb '전구 발명을 했다.' Omitting the particle in formal writing is a common slip-up for intermediate learners.

뉴턴은 중력을 발견한 것이지, 발명한 것이 아닙니다. (Newton discovered gravity; he didn't invent it.)

Finally, remember that 발명 specifically implies a *useful* or *functional* creation. If you just make something for fun that doesn't serve a purpose, '만들기' (making) or '창작' is more appropriate. 발명 carries a connotation of problem-solving and utility.

To sound more natural and precise in Korean, it is essential to distinguish 발명 from its close relatives. While they all deal with 'newness,' their contexts vary significantly. Understanding these differences will elevate your Korean from B1 to a more advanced level.

발견 (Discovery): Finding something that already exists.
Example: '새로운 행성 발견' (Discovery of a new planet).
개발 (Development): Improving an existing idea or creating software/systems.
Example: '신제품 개발' (New product development).
창조 (Creation): Making something from nothing, often used in religious or philosophical contexts.
Example: '천지 창조' (Creation of heaven and earth).
고안 (Design/Devise): Thinking up a specific plan or a clever trick. It's more about the 'idea' phase than the final product.
Example: '새로운 디자인 고안' (Devising a new design).

이 기계는 작년에 발명되었고, 올해 시장에 맞게 개발되었습니다. (This machine was invented last year and developed for the market this year.)

If you are looking for a more casual way to say 'invented' or 'made up,' you might use 지어내다 (to make up/fabricate). However, this often has a negative connotation, like '지어낸 이야기' (a made-up story/lie). For something positive and creative, 만들어내다 (to create/produce) is a safe, versatile alternative that works in almost any situation where 발명 might feel too formal.

In academic writing, you might also see 창안 (origination/innovation). This is very similar to 발명 but focuses more on the 'original idea' or 'method' rather than a physical object. For example, '새로운 교수법을 창안하다' (to originate a new teaching method).

How Formal Is It?

Dato curioso

The character '發' (발) is the same one used in '출발' (departure), suggesting the 'starting' of a new idea. The character '明' (명) is the same as in '명확' (clear), suggesting the idea is now 'clear' to the world.

Guía de pronunciación

UK /pɐɭ.mjʌ̹ŋ/

US /bal.mjʌŋ/

In Korean, stress is generally even across syllables, but the first syllable '발' might feel slightly more emphasized in isolation.

Rima con

설명 (Explanation) 증명 (Proof) 성명 (Statement) 운명 (Destiny) 생명 (Life) 혁명 (Revolution) 투명 (Transparent) 분명 (Clearly)

Errores comunes

Pronouncing '발' with a strong English 'B' (should be softer/unaspirated).
Merging the syllables into 'bal-myeong' too quickly without clear 'l' and 'm' separation.
Confusing the 'eo' sound in 'myeong' with 'o' or 'u'.
Pronouncing the final 'ng' as a hard 'g'.
Vocalizing the 'l' too much like an English 'L' at the end of a word.

Nivel de dificultad

Lectura 3/5

Easy to recognize in texts because it's a common Sino-Korean word with clear Hanja.

Escritura 4/5

Requires correct usage of active/passive forms (하다 vs 되다).

Expresión oral 3/5

Pronunciation is straightforward but requires clear syllable distinction.

Escucha 4/5

Can be easily confused with '발견' (discovery) in fast speech.

Qué aprender después

Requisitos previos

만들다 (To make) 새롭다 (To be new) 기계 (Machine) 사람 (Person) 생각 (Thought)

Aprende después

특허 (Patent) 과학 (Science) 기술 (Technology) 혁신 (Innovation) 연구 (Research)

Avanzado

지적재산권 (Intellectual Property Rights) 실용신안 (Utility Model) 원천기술 (Core/Source Technology) 상용화 (Commercialization) R&D (Research and Development)

Gramática que debes saber

Noun + 하다 (Active Verb Creation)

발명 + 하다 = 발명하다 (To invent)

Noun + 되다 (Passive Verb Creation)

발명 + 되다 = 발명되었다 (Was invented)

Noun + 가 (Person Suffix)

발명 + 가 = 발명가 (Inventor)

Noun + 품 (Product Suffix)

발명 + 품 = 발명품 (Invented item)

Noun + 의 (Possessive Particle)

에디슨의 발명 (Edison's invention)

Regístrate gratis para leer la explicación completa

Ejemplos por nivel

이것은 새로운 발명이에요.

This is a new invention.

Noun + 이에요 (Standard polite ending).

누가 전화기를 발명했어요?

Who invented the telephone?

Interrogative particle '누가' + past tense '발명했어요'.

저는 발명가가 되고 싶어요.

I want to be an inventor.

-고 싶어요 (Expression of desire).

에디슨은 많은 것을 발명했어요.

Edison invented many things.

Object marker '를/을' is implied or added to '것'.

이 발명품은 아주 작아요.

This invention is very small.

Compound noun '발명품' (invention + product).

세종대왕은 한글을 발명했어요.

King Sejong invented Hangeul.

Historical fact using standard past tense.

그는 발명왕이에요.

He is the king of inventors.

Compound noun '발명왕'.

우리는 발명 수업을 들어요.

We are taking an invention class.

Noun as a modifier for '수업'.

이 기계는 아주 유용한 발명입니다.

This machine is a very useful invention.

Formal ending -입니다.

사람들은 생활을 위해 도구를 발명했다.

People invented tools for their lives.

-를 위해 (For the sake of).

어제 발명 대회에 갔어요.

I went to an invention contest yesterday.

Place marker -에.

어떻게 이런 것을 발명했나요?

How did you invent something like this?

Interrogative ending -나요.

이것은 우연한 발명이었습니다.

This was an accidental invention.

Adjective '우연한' (accidental).

새로운 것을 발명하는 것은 어려워요.

Inventing something new is difficult.

-는 것 (Gerund/Making a noun phrase).

그 발명가는 유명해졌어요.

That inventor became famous.

-아/어지다 (To become).

미래에는 어떤 발명이 나올까요?

What kind of inventions will come out in the future?

Future conjecture -을까요.

전구는 에디슨에 의해 발명되었습니다.

The lightbulb was invented by Edison.

Passive voice '발명되다' + agent marker '에 의해'.

인터넷의 발명으로 소통이 쉬워졌다.

With the invention of the internet, communication became easier.

Cause/Reason marker -으로.

이 약은 우연히 발명된 것입니다.

This medicine was invented by accident.

Passive past participle -된.

그는 자신의 발명을 특허로 등록했다.

He registered his invention as a patent.

As/Role marker -로.

획기적인 발명이 세상을 바꿉니다.

Groundbreaking inventions change the world.

Present tense for general truths.

이것은 한국에서 발명된 기술입니다.

This is a technology invented in Korea.

Relative clause '발명된' modifying '기술'.

아이디어를 발명으로 연결하는 것이 중요해요.

Connecting ideas to inventions is important.

Connecting particle 'A를 B로'.

발명의 날은 5월 19일입니다.

Invention Day is May 19th.

Possessive '의'.

그의 발명은 인류 역사에 큰 획을 그었다.

His invention marked a significant milestone in human history.

Idiom '획을 긋다' (to make a mark/milestone).

새로운 발명이 항상 환영받는 것은 아니다.

New inventions are not always welcomed.

Partial negation '-는 것은 아니다'.

이 발명은 환경 오염을 줄이기 위해 고안되었다.

This invention was devised to reduce environmental pollution.

Purpose clause -기 위해.

발명가는 창의적인 사고방식을 가져야 한다.

Inventors must have a creative mindset.

Obligation -해야 한다.

그 기술은 이미 10년 전에 발명된 상태였다.

That technology had already been invented ten years ago.

State of being '-ㄴ 상태였다'.

발명 특허를 얻으려면 절차가 복잡합니다.

To get an invention patent, the procedure is complicated.

Hypothetical condition -으려면.

과학적 발견이 위대한 발명으로 이어졌다.

Scientific discovery led to a great invention.

-으로 이어지다 (To lead to).

이 발명품의 원리는 매우 간단합니다.

The principle of this invention is very simple.

Possessive '의'.

그의 발명은 기존의 패러다임을 완전히 무너뜨렸다.

His invention completely shattered the existing paradigm.

Advanced vocabulary '패러다임', '무너뜨리다'.

이 발명은 수많은 시행착오 끝에 탄생했다.

This invention was born after countless trials and errors.

Noun phrase '시행착오 끝에' (at the end of trial and error).

발명의 가치는 그것이 사회에 미치는 영향으로 평가된다.

The value of an invention is evaluated by the impact it has on society.

Passive '평가된다' (is evaluated).

그는 직무 발명에 대한 정당한 보상을 요구했다.

He demanded fair compensation for his employee invention.

Legal term '직무 발명'.

혁신적인 발명은 종종 시대의 요구에 부응한다.

Innovative inventions often meet the needs of the times.

Formal expression '-에 부응하다'.

그 발명의 독창성은 전 세계적으로 인정받았다.

The originality of that invention was recognized worldwide.

Passive '인정받았다' (was recognized).

발명과 발견의 경계는 때로 모호할 수 있다.

The boundary between invention and discovery can sometimes be blurred.

Conjecture -ㄹ 수 있다.

그는 발명 과정에서 겪은 고충을 토로했다.

He spoke about the hardships he faced during the invention process.

Formal verb '토로하다' (to speak one's mind).

인류의 역사는 곧 발명의 역사라고 해도 과언이 아니다.

It is no exaggeration to say that the history of mankind is the history of invention.

Idiomatic expression '-라고 해도 과언이 아니다'.

그 발명은 기술적 진보를 넘어 철학적 성찰을 요구한다.

That invention demands philosophical reflection beyond technical progress.

Contrastive particle '넘어' (beyond).

자본주의 체제 하에서 발명은 상품화의 과정을 거친다.

Under the capitalist system, invention undergoes a process of commodification.

Complex noun phrase '상품화의 과정'.

이 발명은 기존의 물리 법칙에 위배되는 것처럼 보였다.

This invention seemed to violate existing laws of physics.

Formal verb '위배되다' (to violate/contradict).

발명가의 고뇌는 창조의 기쁨만큼이나 깊다.

The agony of an inventor is as deep as the joy of creation.

Comparison '-만큼이나'.

지속 가능한 발명만이 미래 사회의 대안이 될 수 있다.

Only sustainable inventions can be an alternative for future society.

Exclusionary particle '만이' (only).

그 발명은 우연과 필연의 절묘한 조합에서 비롯되었다.

The invention originated from an exquisite combination of chance and necessity.

Formal verb '-에서 비롯되었다' (originated from).

발명은 단순히 도구의 제작이 아니라 인간 지성의 발현이다.

Invention is not merely the production of tools, but the manifestation of human intelligence.

Correlative structure 'A가 아니라 B이다'.

Sinónimos

창조 고안 개발 창안

Antónimos

모방 발견

Colocaciones comunes

발명을 하다

발명이 되다

위대한 발명

발명 특허

발명 대회

발명가로 살다

우연한 발명

발명품을 전시하다

획기적인 발명

발명의 원리

Frases Comunes

필요는 발명의 어머니

— Necessity is the mother of invention. Difficult situations inspire people to create solutions.

필요는 발명의 어머니라는 말처럼 그는 불편함을 해결하려다 새 기계를 만들었다.

발명의 날

— Invention Day. A commemorative day in Korea (May 19th) celebrating innovation.

발명의 날을 맞아 전국에서 다양한 행사가 열립니다.

발명왕 에디슨

— Edison, the King of Inventors. A common way to refer to Thomas Edison in Korea.

어릴 때 발명왕 에디슨의 위인전을 읽었습니다.

생활 발명

— Lifestyle invention. Practical gadgets or hacks for everyday life.

주부들의 생활 발명이 큰 인기를 끌고 있다.

특허 발명

— Patented invention. An invention that has been legally registered for protection.

이 기술은 특허 발명으로 보호받고 있습니다.

세기의 발명

— Invention of the century. A monumental creation that defines an era.

컴퓨터는 세기의 발명이라고 불릴 만하다.

꼬마 발명가

— Little inventor. A term of endearment for creative children.

우리 아들은 장난감을 분해하는 꼬마 발명가예요.

발명 아이디어

— Invention idea. A concept for a new creation.

좋은 발명 아이디어가 떠올랐어요.

발명 동기

— Motivation for invention. The reason why someone created something.

이 제품의 발명 동기는 아주 간단했습니다.

발명 과정

— Invention process. The steps taken to create a new product.

발명 과정은 생각보다 훨씬 길고 험난했습니다.

Se confunde a menudo con

발명 vs 발견

Discovery vs Invention. Discovery is finding what exists; invention is creating what doesn't.

발명 vs 개발

Development vs Invention. Development is improving or scaling; invention is the first creation.

발명 vs 발매

Release/Sale vs Invention. They sound similar but mean totally different things.

Modismos y expresiones

"필요는 발명의 어머니"

— Necessity drives people to invent new things to solve their problems.

배고픔이 그를 요리 기구 발명으로 이끌었으니, 정말 필요는 발명의 어머니네요.

Common/Proverb

"무에서 유를 창조하다"

— To create something from nothing. Often used to praise a great invention.

그는 아무 자본 없이 무에서 유를 창조하는 발명을 해냈다.

Formal/Literary

"발명가 뺨치다"

— To be even better than a professional inventor (used for creative amateurs).

그의 손재주는 웬만한 발명가 뺨치는 수준이다.

Informal/Colloquial

"바퀴를 다시 발명하다"

— To reinvent the wheel. To waste time creating something that already exists.

이미 있는 기술인데 바퀴를 다시 발명할 필요는 없지.

Business/Idiomatic

"세상을 뒤흔든 발명"

— An invention that shook the world. A massive, world-changing innovation.

증기 기관은 세상을 뒤흔든 발명이었다.

Journalistic

"아이디어 뱅크"

— Idea bank. A person who always has new, inventive ideas.

그 친구는 우리 팀의 아이디어 뱅크이자 발명가야.

Informal

"머리를 짜내다"

— To rack one's brains. Often used when trying to come up with an invention.

그는 새로운 발명을 위해 며칠 밤을 머리를 짜냈다.

Informal

"한 우물을 파다"

— To dig one well. To focus on one area of invention until success is achieved.

그는 평생 전기 발명이라는 한 우물을 팠다.

Proverbial

"천재적인 발명"

— Geniuses invention. A creation that shows extreme intelligence.

누가 봐도 이건 천재적인 발명이다.

Neutral

"역사에 남을 발명"

— An invention that will remain in history.

금속 활자는 역사에 남을 한국의 발명이다.

Formal

Fácil de confundir

발명 vs 발견 (Discovery)

Both start with '발' and relate to new knowledge.

Discovery is finding something existing (like a continent). Invention is creating something new (like a car).

대륙 발견 (Continent discovery) vs 바퀴 발명 (Wheel invention).

발명 vs 개발 (Development)

Both involve technology and progress.

Invention is the initial spark/creation. Development is the ongoing process of making it better or commercially viable.

백신 발명 (Vaccine invention) vs 백신 개발 (Vaccine development/scaling).

발명 vs 창조 (Creation)

Both mean making something new.

Invention is technical/functional. Creation is more abstract, artistic, or divine.

기계 발명 (Machine invention) vs 예술 창조 (Artistic creation).

발명 vs 제작 (Production)

Both involve making things.

Invention is the *first* time it's made. Production is the act of making more of it.

엔진 발명 (Engine invention) vs 영화 제작 (Movie production).

발명 vs 고안 (Design)

Both involve thinking up a new thing.

Design/Devise is more about the specific plan or arrangement of parts. Invention is the broader act of creation.

새로운 로고 고안 (Devising a new logo).

Patrones de oraciones

이것은 [Noun] 발명이에요.

이것은 전구 발명이에요.

[Name]은/는 [Object]을/를 발명했다.

에디슨은 전구를 발명했다.

[Object]은/는 [Name]에 의해 발명되었다.

한글은 세종대왕에 의해 발명되었다.

[Noun]의 발명은 [Result]을/를 가져왔다.

인터넷의 발명은 정보 혁명을 가져왔다.

[Noun]은/는 [Problem]을/를 해결하기 위해 발명된 것이다.

이 기계는 노동력 부족을 해결하기 위해 발명된 것이다.

[Noun]의 발명이 지니는 역사적 의의는 [Description]이다.

금속 활자의 발명이 지니는 역사적 의의는 지식의 대중화이다.

[Object]은/는 [Time]에 발명되었다.

전화기는 19세기에 발명되었다.

저는 [Object]을/를 발명하고 싶어요.

저는 하늘을 나는 차를 발명하고 싶어요.

Familia de palabras

Sustantivos

발명가 (Inventor)

발명품 (Invention/Product)

발명왕 (King of Inventors)

발명권 (Invention Rights)

직무발명 (Employee Invention)

Verbos

발명하다 (To invent)

발명되다 (To be invented)

Adjetivos

발명가다운 (Inventor-like)

발명적인 (Inventive)

Relacionado

특허 (Patent)

고안 (Device/Design)

발견 (Discovery)

개발 (Development)

혁신 (Innovation)

Regístrate gratis para ver todos los ejemplos

Cómo usarlo

frequency

High (especially in educational, scientific, and business contexts).

Errores comunes

뉴턴은 중력을 발명했다. → 뉴턴은 중력을 발견했다.
Newton discovered gravity (it existed); he didn't invent it.
새로운 앱을 발명했어요. → 새로운 앱을 개발했어요.
Software is usually 'developed' (개발), not 'invented' (발명).
이 노래는 나의 발명이다. → 이 노래는 나의 창작이다.
Artistic works like songs are 'creations' (창작), not 'inventions'.
에디슨은 전구 발명이다. → 에디슨은 전구를 발명했다.
You need a verb (발명했다) to say someone invented something.
발명품을 어제 발견했어요. → 발명품을 어제 발매했어요.
Confusing 'discovery' or 'invention' with 'release/sale' (발매).

Consejos

Use 되다 for History

When talking about historical facts, the passive form '발명되었다' sounds more natural and professional than the active '발명했다' unless you are focusing specifically on the person.

Pair with 특허

If you are using '발명', you will often need the word '특허' (patent). They go together like bread and butter in business and law.

Mention King Sejong

In Korea, the 'invention' of Hangeul is the most respected achievement. Using '발명' in this context will always impress native speakers.

Bright Ball

Remember '발' (Ball) and '명' (Bright). An invention is a bright ball of an idea appearing in the world.

Don't Discover America

Never say 'Columbus invented America.' Use '발견' (discovery) for locations and natural laws.

Compound Words

Master compound words like '발명가' and '발명품'. They are much more common in writing than the standalone noun '발명'.

Intonation

Keep the pitch relatively flat across both syllables. Korean doesn't have strong word-level stress like English 'in-VEN-tion'.

Business Context

In a corporate setting, '발명' is used for patents, while '개발' is used for the actual engineering and production process.

Game Context

In RPG games, the 'crafting' or 'inventing' skill is often labeled as '발명' or '제작'.

Hanja Logic

Knowing that '명' means 'bright' helps you understand other words like '설명' (explain - make bright) and '조명' (lighting).

Memorízalo

Mnemotecnia

Think of a 'Ball' (발) that is 'Bright' (명). An inventor throws a bright ball of light into the world—that's a 발명!

Asociación visual

Imagine Thomas Edison holding a lightbulb. The lightbulb is 'Bright' (명). He is standing on a 'Ball' (발) of Earth. Ball-Bright = 발명.

Word Web

Science Patent Edison New Create Genius Gadget History

Desafío

Try to name three Korean inventions (발명품) and use the word in a sentence: '금속 활자는 한국의 위대한 발명입니다.'

Origen de la palabra

Derived from Sino-Korean Hanja characters: 發 (발) meaning 'to send out, emit, or happen' and 明 (명) meaning 'bright, clear, or light.'

Significado original: Originally, it meant to clarify something or to bring light to a situation. Over time, it evolved to specifically mean creating a new device or concept.

Sino-Korean (Hanja-based vocabulary).

Contexto cultural

No major sensitivities, but when discussing the 'invention' of certain cultural items, be careful not to confuse them with 'discoveries' or 'traditions' to avoid historical inaccuracies.

In English, 'invention' is often associated with the Industrial Revolution. In Korea, it spans from ancient agricultural tools to modern semiconductors.

Jang Yeong-sil (The most famous historical inventor) King Sejong (Inventor of Hangeul) Thomas Edison (Commonly cited as 'The King of Inventors' in Korean textbooks)

Practica en la vida real

Contextos reales

History Class

역사적인 발명
누가 발명했나요?
발명의 시기
발명의 영향

Science Lab

새로운 기술 발명
실험을 통한 발명
발명 원리
발명 데이터

Business/Patent Office

발명 특허 신청
발명자 권리
직무 발명 보상
발명 명세서

Everyday Praise

천재적인 발명이다
생활의 발명
대단한 발명품
발명 아이디어

News Report

세기의 발명으로 꼽히다
발명가가 발표하다
발명품 시연회
발명의 경제적 가치

Inicios de conversación

"인류 역사상 가장 위대한 발명은 무엇이라고 생각하세요?"

"지금까지 본 발명품 중에서 가장 신기했던 것은 무엇인가요?"

"만약 당신이 발명가라면 어떤 것을 발명하고 싶나요?"

"스마트폰의 발명이 우리 삶을 어떻게 바꾸었을까요?"

"최근에 본 뉴스 중에서 기억에 남는 새로운 발명이 있나요?"

Temas para diario

내가 만약 새로운 기계를 발명한다면, 어떤 문제를 해결하고 싶은지 써 보세요.

나에게 가장 큰 영향을 준 발명품 세 가지를 고르고 그 이유를 설명해 보세요.

발명이 항상 좋은 결과만 가져오는지, 아니면 나쁜 점도 있는지 자신의 생각을 적어 보세요.

한국의 역사적인 발명품 중 하나를 선택해 그 중요성에 대해 기술해 보세요.

미래에 꼭 발명되었으면 하는 기술에 대해 상상해서 글을 써 보세요.

Preguntas frecuentes

10 preguntas

Koreans usually use '개발' (development) or '창작' (creation) for food. However, if it's a revolutionary new way to cook, you might jokingly use '발명'. For example, '라면의 발명' (The invention of Ramen) is acceptable in historical contexts.

'발명가' (Inventor) specifically creates new products or tools. '과학자' (Scientist) studies the laws of nature. A person can be both, like Edison, but their focus is different.

Technically, you can 'invent' a new algorithm, but in 99% of cases, software is '개발' (developed). Use '앱 개발' (App development), not '앱 발명'.

It is '필요는 발명의 어머니' (Pil-yo-neun bal-myeong-ui eo-meo-ni). It is a very common proverb in Korea just like in English.

It is a neutral-to-formal word. It is perfectly fine to use in casual speech, but it sounds more educated than just saying '새로 만든 것' (something newly made).

No. For a lie or a fabricated story, use '지어내다' (to make up) or '날조' (fabrication). '발명' is almost always positive.

It is May 19th, a day to celebrate inventors. It was chosen to honor the date the rain gauge was first used in the 15th century.

'발명품' (Invented product) emphasizes the novelty and the act of creation. '제품' (Product) is a general term for anything made for sale.

Yes! Children are often encouraged to be 'little inventors' (꼬마 발명가) in school and at home.

Yes, '발명하다' (to invent) is the active verb form.

Regístrate gratis para ver consejos y notas