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~을 통해서

A2 phrase #2,000 más común 10 min de lectura

~을 통해서

eul tonghaeseo Top 2,000

Practícalo Ejemplos Notas y consejos ~을 통해서 en 30 segundos

Explicación ~을 통해서 in your Level:

At the A1 beginner level, the phrase '~을 통해서' (through, via) might seem a little advanced, as beginners usually focus on basic particles like 이/가 (subject), 은/는 (topic), and 을/를 (object). However, introducing this phrase early on is incredibly beneficial because it allows you to start making longer, more descriptive sentences. Instead of just saying 'I listen to music' (음악을 들어요), you can say 'I listen to music through my phone' (스마트폰을 통해서 음악을 들어요). The grammar rule is simple to memorize: if the noun ends in a consonant (받침), you attach '을 통해서'. If the noun ends in a vowel, you attach '를 통해서'. For example, '인터넷' ends in a consonant, so it becomes '인터넷을 통해서' (through the internet). '친구' ends in a vowel, so it becomes '친구를 통해서' (through a friend). At this level, you don't need to worry about complex abstract nouns. Just practice using it with everyday words like people (사람), internet (인터넷), TV (티비), and news (뉴스). It helps answer the question 'How did you do that?' or 'How did you find out?'. Remember that it is used to show the channel or the medium. It is not used for physical tools like a pen or scissors; for those, you use '(으)로'. By mastering this simple attachment rule, A1 learners can significantly expand their ability to describe how actions are performed in their daily lives.

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At the A2 elementary level, '~을 통해서' becomes a core component of your grammatical toolkit. This is the level where you start connecting ideas and explaining the processes behind your actions. You are no longer just stating facts; you are providing context. The phrase '~을 통해서' is perfectly suited for this. It translates directly to 'through', 'via', or 'by means of'. You will use it extensively to talk about communication, learning, and experiences. For instance, when discussing language learning, you might say '저는 한국 드라마를 통해서 한국어를 공부해요' (I study Korean through Korean dramas). When talking about relationships, you might explain '우리는 아는 사람을 통해서 만났어요' (We met through an acquaintance). The key at the A2 level is to become completely comfortable with the consonant/vowel rules (을/를) so that you can produce the phrase automatically without pausing to think. You should also start recognizing the shortened form, '~을 통해', which is frequently used in written texts and slightly more formal speech. At this stage, you should be careful not to confuse it with physical movement. If you want to say 'I walked through the park', you cannot use '~을 통해서'. You must use verbs like '지나가다' (to pass by/through). Stick to using '~을 통해서' for abstract channels, mediums of communication, and intermediary people. This distinction is crucial for sounding natural at the A2 level.

At the B1 intermediate level, your use of '~을 통해서' should expand beyond simple everyday objects and people to encompass more abstract concepts and processes. You will begin to use this phrase to articulate thoughts about education, experience, societal systems, and formal procedures. For example, instead of just saying you learned something through a book, you might say '다양한 경험을 통해서 인생을 배웁니다' (I learn about life through various experiences) or '꾸준한 연습을 통해서 실력을 향상시켰어요' (I improved my skills through consistent practice). At this level, you will also encounter the necessity of using verbs as the medium. To do this, you must first turn the verb into a noun using the '~는 것' structure. For instance, '대화하는 것을 통해서 문제를 해결합시다' (Let's solve the problem through talking/conversation). This adds a layer of complexity but greatly enhances your expressive capability. Furthermore, B1 learners should be highly aware of the stylistic choice between the full form '~을 통해서' and the shortened form '~을 통해'. In essays, presentations, and formal emails, '~을 통해' is generally preferred as it sounds more concise and professional. You will also start seeing this phrase frequently in reading comprehension passages, particularly in news articles or informational texts explaining how a certain result was achieved. Mastering its use with abstract nouns is a hallmark of a solid B1 speaker.

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At the B2 upper-intermediate level, '~을 통해서' is a foundational structure for academic and professional discourse. You are expected to use it flawlessly to construct complex, logical arguments and explain intricate methodologies. In business contexts, you will use it to discuss strategies and channels: '새로운 마케팅 캠페인을 통해서 매출을 증가시킬 계획입니다' (We plan to increase sales through a new marketing campaign). In academic writing, it is essential for describing research methods: '설문조사를 통해서 데이터를 수집하고 분석했습니다' (We collected and analyzed data through a survey). At this level, you should also be comfortable with nuanced variations and related expressions. You understand the subtle difference between using '(으)로' (as a tool/method) and '~을 통해서' (as a channel/medium), and you can choose the appropriate one based on the specific emphasis you want to convey. You will also frequently encounter it combined with other advanced grammar structures. For example, '이 사건을 통해서 우리가 배울 수 있는 점은...' (The point we can learn through this incident is...). B2 learners should naturally gravitate towards the shortened '~을 통해' in written Korean, reserving the full '~을 통해서' for spoken emphasis or slightly less formal writing. The ability to seamlessly integrate this phrase into complex sentences detailing cause, effect, and methodology is a key indicator of B2 proficiency.

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At the C1 advanced level, your command of '~을 통해서' should be native-like, characterized by its use in highly abstract, philosophical, or literary contexts. You are no longer just using it for practical channels like the internet or a friend; you are using it to discuss the transmission of culture, the evolution of ideas, and the mediation of human experience. For example, you might write or say, '인류는 역사를 통해서 과거의 실수를 반성하고 미래를 설계한다' (Humanity reflects on past mistakes and designs the future through history) or '예술이라는 매개체를 통해서 인간의 내면을 탐구하다' (To explore the human inner self through the medium of art). At this level, you are also fully aware of synonymous and highly formal alternatives such as '~(을/를) 매개로' (using as a medium) or '~(을/를) 수단으로' (using as a means), and you can seamlessly switch between them depending on the register and the specific stylistic requirements of your text. You understand that while '~을 통해서' is common, overusing it in a single academic paper can sound repetitive, so you employ these alternatives to maintain a sophisticated writing style. Furthermore, you can effortlessly comprehend complex, multi-clause sentences in news broadcasts or academic lectures where '~을 통해' acts as the crucial pivot point connecting a complex methodology to a profound conclusion. Your use of the phrase is intuitive, precise, and stylistically appropriate for any high-level context.

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At the C2 mastery level, the phrase '~을 통해서' is deployed with absolute precision and an innate understanding of its deepest semantic implications within the Korean language. A C2 speaker uses this structure not merely to convey information, but to shape the rhetorical flow of a profound argument or a delicate literary passage. You recognize how the concept of '통하다' (to flow/communicate) subtly colors the phrase, implying not just a static channel, but an active, dynamic process of transmission or transformation. You might use it in sociopolitical commentary: '민주주의는 끊임없는 대화와 타협의 과정을 통해서만 그 진정한 가치를 실현할 수 있다' (Democracy can only realize its true value through a continuous process of dialogue and compromise). At this level of mastery, you are also acutely aware of the historical and etymological roots of the phrase, understanding how it differs from indigenous Korean expressions or other Sino-Korean derivatives. You can play with its structure for poetic or rhetorical effect, perhaps intentionally using the full '~을 통해서' in a formal speech to force a rhythmic pause and emphasize the medium being discussed. Your comprehension is instantaneous, whether the phrase is buried within a dense, archaic philosophical text or spoken rapidly in a heated, high-level debate. For a C2 speaker, '~을 통해서' is a masterful brushstroke in the complex painting of advanced Korean discourse.

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Practícalo Ejemplos Notas y consejos

~을 통해서 en 30 segundos

Means 'through' or 'via'.
Used with abstract channels or people.
을 통해서 (consonant) / 를 통해서 (vowel).
Not for physical tools (use (으)로).

The Korean grammatical structure and phrase '~을 통해서' (or '~를 통해서' depending on whether the preceding noun ends in a consonant or a vowel) is an essential and highly versatile expression used to indicate the means, method, channel, or medium through which an action is accomplished, a state is achieved, or information is transmitted. When you want to express that something happened 'through' a person, 'via' a specific process, or 'by means of' a particular tool or system, this is the phrase you will use. It is derived from the verb '통하다', which fundamentally means 'to go through', 'to flow', 'to circulate', or 'to communicate'. By attaching the object particle '~을/를' to a noun and following it with '통해서' (which is the conjugated form of '통하여'), you create an adverbial phrase that modifies the main verb of the sentence. Understanding this phrase is crucial for learners at the A2 level and beyond, as it transitions your Korean from simple direct actions to more complex, mediated actions. For example, instead of just saying 'I heard the news', you can specify the channel by saying 'I heard the news through a friend'. This adds significant depth and precision to your communication.

Literal Meaning: The literal translation of '통하다' is 'to go through' or 'to pass through'. Therefore, '~을 통해서' literally translates to 'having passed through [Noun]'.

저는 친구를 통해서 그 소식을 들었어요.

This concept of 'passing through' is not limited to physical spaces but extends heavily into abstract concepts. When you learn a language 'through' watching dramas, the dramas are the medium that the knowledge passes through to reach you.

Figurative Meaning: Figuratively, it means 'by means of', 'via', or 'using [Noun] as a channel'. It highlights the intermediary role of the noun.

인터넷을 통해서 정보를 찾았습니다.

The versatility of this phrase means you will encounter it in everyday conversations, news reports, academic writing, and business correspondence. It is a bridge that connects a resource or an intermediary to the final outcome.

경험을 통해서 많은 것을 배웠습니다.

Usage Context: It is used when the noun acts as a medium, an agent, or a method. It cannot be used for physical movement through a tunnel or door; for that, you use other verbs like 지나가다.

독서를 통해서 지식을 얻습니다.

In summary, mastering '~을 통해서' unlocks a significant level of fluency, allowing you to articulate how things are connected, how information flows, and how results are achieved through various means and intermediaries in the Korean language.

대화를 통해서 문제를 해결합시다.

Using '~을 통해서' correctly requires an understanding of Korean particle attachment rules and the conceptual difference between a medium and a simple tool. The grammatical construction is straightforward: you take a noun, attach the object particle '을' if the noun ends in a consonant (받침), or '를' if the noun ends in a vowel, and then add the word '통해서'. For example, the word '인터넷' (internet) ends in a consonant ('ㅅ'), so it becomes '인터넷을 통해서'. The word '친구' (friend) ends in a vowel ('우'), so it becomes '친구를 통해서'. This rule is absolute and must be followed for grammatical accuracy.

Consonant Ending Rule: Noun ending in a consonant + 을 통해서. Example: 사람 (person) -> 사람을 통해서 (through a person).

다른 사람을 통해서 연락했어요.

Once you have formed the phrase, it acts as an adverbial phrase in the sentence. This means it usually comes before the verb it modifies, though Korean word order is relatively flexible as long as the verb is at the end.

Vowel Ending Rule: Noun ending in a vowel + 를 통해서. Example: 뉴스 (news) -> 뉴스를 통해서 (through the news).

뉴스를 통해서 사실을 알았어요.

It is important to note that the noun preceding '~을 통해서' should represent a channel, a medium, an intermediary person, an experience, or a process. It sounds unnatural to use it with simple physical tools where '(으)로' would be more appropriate. For instance, you wouldn't say '연필을 통해서 썼어요' (I wrote through a pencil); you would say '연필로 썼어요' (I wrote with a pencil).

유튜브를 통해서 한국어를 공부해요.

Abstract Nouns: It pairs exceptionally well with abstract nouns like education (교육), experience (경험), and effort (노력).

꾸준한 노력을 통해서 성공했습니다.

By practicing these attachment rules and understanding the semantic boundaries of what constitutes a 'medium' or 'channel', learners can effectively integrate this structure into their daily Korean usage, elevating their sentence complexity significantly.

이메일을 통해서 서류를 보냈습니다.

The phrase '~을 통해서' is ubiquitous in the Korean language, appearing across a wide spectrum of contexts ranging from casual daily conversations to highly formal academic and professional environments. Because it expresses the fundamental concept of mediation and channels, it is indispensable for clear communication. In everyday life, you will frequently hear it when people discuss how they met someone, how they found out about a piece of news, or how they acquired a certain skill. For example, a common icebreaker might involve asking how someone discovered a good restaurant, to which the reply might be '인스타그램을 통해서 알게 되었어요' (I found out about it through Instagram).

Daily Conversation: Used casually to explain how information was received or how connections were made, often involving friends, social media, or the internet.

아는 사람을 통해서 그 회사를 소개받았어.

In the realm of news and media, this phrase is a staple. Journalists constantly use it to cite their sources or explain the mechanisms of an event. You will hear news anchors say things like '공식 발표를 통해서' (through an official announcement) or '조사를 통해서' (through an investigation).

News and Media: Highly prevalent in journalism to indicate the source of information, the method of a government action, or the process of an investigation.

기자회견을 통해서 입장을 밝혔습니다.

Furthermore, in business and academic settings, '~을 통해서' is used to describe methodologies, processes, and strategic channels. A business presentation might detail how sales increased '마케팅 캠페인을 통해서' (through a marketing campaign).

설문조사을 통해서 데이터를 수집했습니다.

Academic Writing: Used to explain research methodologies, theoretical frameworks, and the processes by which conclusions were drawn.

실험을 통해서 가설을 증명했다.

Understanding the varied contexts where this phrase appears helps learners recognize its importance and encourages them to adopt it in their own speaking and writing, moving beyond basic vocabulary to express complex relationships between actions and their mediums.

다양한 활동을 통해서 문화를 배웁니다.

While '~을 통해서' is an incredibly useful structure, learners frequently make a few specific mistakes when trying to incorporate it into their Korean. The most common error stems from confusing it with the particle '(으)로', which translates to 'by', 'with', or 'using'. While both can indicate a method, '(으)로' is generally used for direct physical tools, instruments, or raw materials, whereas '~을 통해서' is used for channels, mediums, intermediaries, or processes. For example, saying '가위를 통해서 종이를 잘랐어요' (I cut the paper through scissors) sounds very unnatural. The correct phrasing is '가위로 종이를 잘랐어요' (I cut the paper with scissors).

Tool vs. Medium: Do not use '~을 통해서' with simple physical tools (pen, scissors, hammer). Use '(으)로' instead. Use '~을 통해서' for abstract mediums or intermediary people.

Incorrect: 펜을 통해서 편지를 썼어요. -> Correct: 펜으로 편지를 썼어요.

Another frequent mistake is using '~을 통해서' to describe physical movement through a space, like walking through a door or driving through a tunnel. The verb '통하다' does have a physical meaning of 'to flow through' (like air through a window), but the grammatical structure '~을 통해서' is almost exclusively used for figurative, abstract mediums. For physical movement, verbs like '지나가다' (to pass by/through) or '통과하다' (to pass through) are required.

Physical Movement Error: Avoid using this phrase to say you walked 'through' a park or drove 'through' a tunnel. It is for abstract channels, not physical traversal.

Incorrect: 터널을 통해서 운전했어요. -> Correct: 터널을 지나서 운전했어요.

Additionally, learners sometimes forget the object particle '을/를' and just attach '통해서' directly to the noun (e.g., '인터넷 통해서'). While this might be understood in very casual, fast speech, it is grammatically incorrect and should be avoided, especially in writing or formal speaking.

Incorrect: 친구 통해서 들었어. -> Correct: 친구를 통해서 들었어.

Missing Particle: Always ensure the preceding noun has the correct object particle (을 or 를) attached before adding 통해서.

라디오를 통해서 음악을 듣습니다.

By being mindful of these distinctions—especially the difference between a tool and a medium, and the restriction against physical movement—you can use '~을 통해서' with the accuracy and nuance of a native speaker.

번역기를 통해서 의미를 이해했습니다.

When expanding your Korean vocabulary, it is helpful to understand words and phrases that share similar meanings or functions with '~을 통해서'. While '~을 통해서' is the standard and most versatile way to say 'through' or 'via', there are other expressions that can be used depending on the exact nuance you wish to convey. One of the most common alternatives is the particle '(으)로'. As discussed in the common mistakes section, '(으)로' primarily indicates a tool, method, or direction. In some contexts, the line between a medium and a tool blurs, and they can be interchangeable. For example, '인터넷으로 검색했어요' (I searched using the internet) and '인터넷을 통해서 검색했어요' (I searched via the internet) are both perfectly acceptable, though the latter sounds slightly more formal and emphasizes the internet as a channel rather than just a tool.

(으)로 (By / With): Used for tools, methods, or materials. Often interchangeable with '~을 통해서' when referring to digital mediums like the internet or phone.

스마트폰으로 연락할게요.

Another related concept is expressed by the phrase '~덕분에', which means 'thanks to'. While '~을 통해서' neutrally states the channel through which something happened, '~덕분에' adds a positive, grateful nuance, indicating that the medium or person was the beneficial cause of a good outcome.

~덕분에 (Thanks to): Used when the intermediary or medium resulted in a positive outcome and you want to express gratitude or attribute positive cause.

선생님 덕분에 시험에 합격했어요.

For more formal or written contexts, you might encounter the word '매개로' (as a medium) or '바탕으로' (based on / founded on). '매개로' is very close in meaning to '~을 통해서' but is highly academic. '바탕으로' is used when something serves as the foundation or basis for an action, rather than just a passing channel.

이 소설은 실화를 바탕으로 쓰여졌습니다.

~을/를 바탕으로 (Based on): Used when a noun acts as the foundation, basis, or source material for a subsequent action or creation, rather than just a channel.

연구 결과를 바탕으로 정책을 만들었습니다.

By understanding these subtle distinctions, you can choose the exact right phrase to match your intended meaning, whether you are expressing simple means, gratitude, or academic foundations.

예술을 매개로 소통합니다.

How Formal Is It?

Nivel de dificultad

Gramática que debes saber

N + (으)로 (Indicates tool/method/direction)

V + 는 것을 통해서 (Using a verb as a medium)

N + 덕분에 (Thanks to N)

N + 에 의해서 (By N - passive voice agent)

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Ejemplos por nivel

친구를 통해서 들었어요.

I heard it through a friend.

친구 (friend) ends in a vowel, so attach 를 통해서.

인터넷을 통해서 샀어요.

I bought it through the internet.

인터넷 (internet) ends in a consonant, so attach 을 통해서.

TV를 통해서 봤어요.

I saw it through the TV.

TV ends in a vowel sound, so attach 를 통해서.

선생님을 통해서 알았어요.

I found out through the teacher.

선생님 (teacher) ends in a consonant, so attach 을 통해서.

전화를 통해서 이야기해요.

We talk through the phone.

전화 (phone) ends in a vowel, so attach 를 통해서.

가족을 통해서 배웠어요.

I learned it through my family.

가족 (family) ends in a consonant, so attach 을 통해서.

뉴스를 통해서 들었어요.

I heard it through the news.

뉴스 (news) ends in a vowel, so attach 를 통해서.

사진을 통해서 봤어요.

I saw it through a photo.

사진 (photo) ends in a consonant, so attach 을 통해서.

유튜브를 통해서 한국어를 공부해요.

I study Korean through YouTube.

Indicates the medium of learning.

아는 사람을 통해서 그 식당을 찾았어요.

I found that restaurant through an acquaintance.

아는 사람 means acquaintance or someone you know.

이메일을 통해서 서류를 보냈습니다.

I sent the documents via email.

Formal action using a digital channel.

경험을 통해서 많은 것을 배웠어요.

I learned a lot through experience.

Using an abstract noun (경험 - experience) as a medium.

여행을 통해서 새로운 문화를 알게 되었어요.

I came to know a new culture through travel.

여행 (travel) acts as the channel for discovery.

대화를 통해서 문제를 해결합시다.

Let's solve the problem through conversation.

대화 (conversation) as a method of resolution.

라디오 방송을 통해서 그 노래를 처음 들었어요.

I first heard that song through a radio broadcast.

Specifying the exact broadcast medium.

번역기를 통해서 의미를 이해했습니다.

I understood the meaning through a translator.

Using a software tool as an intermediary.

꾸준한 노력을 통해서 목표를 달성했습니다.

I achieved my goal through consistent effort.

Abstract concept (노력 - effort) combined with an adjective (꾸준한 - consistent).

다양한 활동을 통해서 사회성을 기를 수 있습니다.

You can develop social skills through various activities.

활동 (activities) as a medium for personal development.

책을 읽는 것을 통해서 지식을 얻습니다.

I gain knowledge through reading books.

Verb nominalization: 읽다 -> 읽는 것 + 을 통해서.

공식적인 발표를 통해서 결과를 알릴 예정입니다.

We plan to announce the results through an official presentation.

Formal business/academic context.

실수를 통해서 배우는 것이 가장 중요합니다.

Learning through mistakes is the most important thing.

Philosophical/life lesson context using 실수 (mistake).

SNS를 통해서 전 세계 사람들과 소통할 수 있어요.

You can communicate with people around the world through SNS.

SNS (Social Networking Service) as a global channel.

전문가와의 상담을 통해서 해결책을 찾았습니다.

I found a solution through a consultation with an expert.

Complex noun phrase: 전문가와의 상담 (consultation with an expert).

역사 교육을 통해서 과거를 이해해야 합니다.

We must understand the past through history education.

Education (교육) as a medium for understanding.

철저한 조사를 통해서 사건의 진상을 파악했습니다.

We grasped the truth of the incident through a thorough investigation.

Advanced vocabulary: 철저한 (thorough), 진상 (truth/reality).

정부는 새로운 정책을 통해서 경제 위기를 극복하고자 합니다.

The government intends to overcome the economic crisis through new policies.

Political/Economic context, using 고자 하다 (intends to).

설문조사 결과를 통해서 소비자의 선호도를 분석할 수 있었습니다.

We were able to analyze consumer preferences through the survey results.

Academic/Business research context.

지속적인 기술 개발을 통해서 시장 경쟁력을 확보해야 합니다.

We must secure market competitiveness through continuous technological development.

Corporate strategy context.

문화 교류를 통해서 양국 간의 이해를 증진시킬 수 있습니다.

We can promote understanding between the two countries through cultural exchange.

Diplomatic/International relations context.

이 소설은 주인공의 시선을 통해서 사회의 모순을 비판하고 있다.

This novel criticizes the contradictions of society through the protagonist's perspective.

Literary analysis context.

엄격한 심사 과정을 통해서 최종 합격자를 선발했습니다.

We selected the final successful candidates through a strict screening process.

Formal administrative process.

다양한 매체를 통해서 정보가 빠르게 확산되고 있습니다.

Information is spreading rapidly through various media.

Media and communication context.

인류는 수많은 시행착오를 통해서 현재의 문명을 이룩해 왔다.

Humanity has achieved its current civilization through countless trials and errors.

Highly abstract and historical context: 시행착오 (trial and error).

예술 작품을 통해서 작가의 내면세계와 시대정신을 엿볼 수 있다.

Through works of art, one can catch a glimpse of the artist's inner world and the zeitgeist.

Artistic critique vocabulary: 시대정신 (zeitgeist).

언어라는 매개체를 통해서 우리는 복잡한 추상적 개념을 공유한다.

Through the medium of language, we share complex abstract concepts.

Linguistic/Philosophical context using 매개체 (medium).

이론적 고찰을 통해서 기존 연구의 한계점을 명확히 규명하고자 한다.

Through theoretical consideration, we aim to clearly identify the limitations of existing research.

Academic thesis introduction style.

기업은 투명한 경영 활동을 통해서 사회적 책임을 다해야 할 의무가 있다.

Corporations have an obligation to fulfill their social responsibilities through transparent management activities.

Advanced business ethics context.

문학은 은유와 상징을 통해서 현실의 이면을 날카롭게 파헤친다.

Literature sharply uncovers the hidden side of reality through metaphor and symbolism.

Literary analysis using 은유 (metaphor) and 상징 (symbolism).

다각적인 분석을 통해서 문제의 근본적인 원인을 도출해 내는 것이 관건이다.

Deriving the fundamental cause of the problem through multifaceted analysis is the key.

Strategic problem-solving context.

역사적 사료에 대한 비판적 검토를 통해서만 객관적인 사실에 접근할 수 있다.

Only through a critical review of historical materials can we approach objective facts.

Historiography context using 사료 (historical materials).

인간은 타자와의 끊임없는 상호작용을 통해서만 자아를 온전히 형성할 수 있다.

Humans can only fully form their ego through continuous interaction with others.

Deep psychological/sociological context.

해당 법안은 여야 간의 치열한 공방과 타협의 과정을 통해서 비로소 국회 문턱을 넘었다.

The bill finally crossed the threshold of the National Assembly through a process of fierce debate and compromise between the ruling and opposition parties.

Advanced political journalism vocabulary.

철학적 사유를 통해서 존재의 본질에 대한 근원적인 질문을 던져야 할 시점이다.

It is time to pose fundamental questions about the essence of existence through philosophical reasoning.

Philosophical discourse: 사유 (reasoning/thinking).

자본주의 체제는 시장이라는 보이지 않는 손을 통해서 자원의 효율적 배분을 도모한다.

The capitalist system seeks the efficient allocation of resources through the invisible hand of the market.

Advanced economic theory context.

언어의 해체와 재구성을 통해서 기존의 억압적인 담론 구조를 전복시키고자 하는 시도이다.

It is an attempt to subvert the existing oppressive discourse structure through the deconstruction and reconstruction of language.

Post-structuralist literary theory context.

이 교향곡은 불협화음의 연속을 통해서 현대 사회의 불안과 혼돈을 청각적으로 형상화했다.

This symphony aurally materialized the anxiety and chaos of modern society through a succession of dissonances.

Advanced music critique vocabulary.

생태계는 먹이사슬이라는 정교한 네트워크를 통해서 에너지의 순환과 균형을 유지한다.

The ecosystem maintains the circulation and balance of energy through the intricate network known as the food chain.

Advanced biological/ecological context.

종교적 제의를 통해서 세속의 시간을 성스러운 시간으로 전환시키는 신비적 체험을 묘사하고 있다.

It describes the mystical experience of transforming secular time into sacred time through religious rituals.

Theological/Anthropological context.

Colocaciones comunes

인터넷을 통해서 (through the internet)

친구를 통해서 (through a friend)

경험을 통해서 (through experience)

대화를 통해서 (through conversation)

뉴스를 통해서 (through the news)

교육을 통해서 (through education)

과정을 통해서 (through the process)

노력을 통해서 (through effort)

조사를 통해서 (through investigation)

매체를 통해서 (through media)

Frases Comunes

아는 사람을 통해서 (through an acquaintance)

다양한 경험을 통해서 (through various experiences)

공식 발표를 통해서 (through an official announcement)

꾸준한 연습을 통해서 (through consistent practice)

SNS를 통해서 (through SNS/social media)

철저한 검증을 통해서 (through thorough verification)

역사를 통해서 (through history)

전문가를 통해서 (through an expert)

실험을 통해서 (through an experiment)

설문조사를 통해서 (through a survey)

Se confunde a menudo con

~을 통해서 vs (으)로: '(으)로' is for physical tools (pen, hammer) or direct methods. '~을 통해서' is for abstract channels, mediums, or intermediary people.

~을 통해서 vs 지나서: '지나서' means physically passing by or through a space (like a park or tunnel). '~을 통해서' is not used for physical traversal.

~을 통해서 vs 덕분에: '덕분에' means 'thanks to' and implies a positive outcome. '~을 통해서' is neutral.

Modismos y expresiones

"입소문을 통해서 (through word of mouth)"

"산전수전을 통해서 (through all sorts of hardships)"

"어둠을 통해서 빛을 보다 (to see light through darkness)"

"고난을 통해서 성장하다 (to grow through adversity)"

"시행착오를 통해서 (through trial and error)"

"알음알음을 통해서 (through mutual acquaintances)"

"눈물겨운 노력을 통해서 (through tearful/painstaking effort)"

"피나는 훈련을 통해서 (through blood-sweating training)"

"세월을 통해서 (through the passage of time)"

"역경을 통해서 (through adversity)"

Fácil de confundir

~을 통해서 vs

Patrones de oraciones

Regístrate gratis para ver todos los ejemplos

Cómo usarlo

nuance

It carries a neutral nuance of a channel or process. It does not inherently imply gratitude (like 덕분에) or blame (like 때문에).

formality

The full form '~을 통해서' is standard and polite. The shortened form '~을 통해' is more formal and preferred in writing. Dropping the particle ('친구 통해서') is strictly casual.

Errores comunes

Using '~을 통해서' with physical tools (e.g., saying 펜을 통해서 instead of 펜으로).
Using '~을 통해서' for physical movement through space (e.g., saying 터널을 통해서 instead of 터널을 지나서).
Attaching the wrong object particle (e.g., saying 인터넷를 통해서 instead of 인터넷을 통해서).
Dropping the object particle entirely in formal writing (e.g., writing 친구 통해서 instead of 친구를 통해서).
Using it to express a duration of time (e.g., trying to say 'throughout the year' using 통해서).

Consejos

Check the Noun Ending

Always look at the last letter of the noun before adding the phrase. If it ends in a consonant (받침), use '을 통해서' (e.g., 사람 -> 사람을 통해서). If it ends in a vowel, use '를 통해서' (e.g., 친구 -> 친구를 통해서). This is a basic but crucial rule for sounding natural.

Shorten for Formal Writing

When you are writing an essay, a formal email, or taking the TOPIK writing test, use the shortened form '~을 통해' instead of '~을 통해서'. It means exactly the same thing but looks much more professional, concise, and academic on paper.

Avoid Physical Tools

Remember the 'Tool vs. Medium' rule. Do not use this phrase for things you hold in your hand to do physical work, like a pen, scissors, or a hammer. For those, use the particle '(으)로'. Use '~을 통해서' for abstract channels like the internet, a process, or a person.

Not for Physical Movement

If you are translating the English word 'through' in the context of walking through a door, driving through a tunnel, or passing through a city, do not use '~을 통해서'. Use verbs of movement like '지나가다' (to pass by/through) or '통과하다' (to pass through).

Pronunciation Flow

When speaking, try to pronounce the noun, the particle, and the phrase as one smooth, connected unit. Don't pause between the noun and '을/를', and don't pause before '통해서'. For example, say '친-구-를-통-해-서' smoothly, not '친구를... 통해서'.

Pair with Abstract Nouns

To sound advanced, practice pairing this phrase with abstract nouns. Words like 경험 (experience), 교육 (education), 노력 (effort), and 대화 (conversation) collocate beautifully with '~을 통해서' and instantly elevate your Korean level.

Turning Verbs into Mediums

If you want to say 'through doing something', you must nominalize the verb first. Add '~는 것' to the verb stem, then add '을 통해서'. For example, '운동하다' (to exercise) becomes '운동하는 것을 통해서' (through exercising).

Listen for the Source

When listening to Korean news, pay close attention to the words immediately preceding '~을 통해'. This will always tell you the source of the information, the method of the investigation, or the channel of the government's action.

Neutral Tone

Keep in mind that '~을 통해서' is emotionally neutral. It just states a fact about the channel used. If you want to express that you are thankful for the channel (e.g., 'Thanks to my friend...'), it is better to use '~덕분에' instead.

The Power of Intermediaries

In Korean business and social culture, doing things 'through an acquaintance' (아는 사람을 통해서) is very common and often preferred over cold-calling. Mastering this phrase helps you navigate and describe these important social networks.

Memorízalo

Mnemotecnia

Think of a TONGUE (통) passing a message THROUGH the air to someone's ear. 'Tong-hae-seo' = Through.

Origen de la palabra

Sino-Korean root 通 (통 - to pass through, communicate) + native Korean verb 하다 (to do) + 어서 (sequential/causal suffix).

Contexto cultural

Using an intermediary (someone you know) to make a request or an introduction is a polite way to network in Korea, making '아는 사람을 통해서' a vital phrase.

Korea is highly connected, so phrases like '카톡을 통해서' (through KakaoTalk) or '어플을 통해서' (through an app) are everyday essentials.

Practica en la vida real

Contextos reales

Inicios de conversación

"한국어는 무엇을 통해서 공부하고 있어요? (Through what are you studying Korean?)"

"그 좋은 소식은 누구를 통해서 들었어요? (Through whom did you hear that good news?)"

"요즘은 주로 어떤 매체를 통해서 뉴스를 보세요? (Through which media do you mostly watch the news these days?)"

"스트레스는 어떤 방법을 통해서 풀어요? (Through what method do you relieve stress?)"

"이 식당은 어떻게 알고 오셨어요? 인터넷을 통해서요? (How did you know to come to this restaurant? Through the internet?)"

Temas para diario

Write about a valuable lesson you learned through a difficult experience (어려운 경험을 통해서...).

Describe how you usually communicate with your family who lives far away (어떤 방법을 통해서...).

Explain how you discovered your favorite hobby (무엇을 통해서...).

Discuss a piece of news you recently heard and the channel through which you heard it.

Write about how technology has changed your life (스마트폰이나 인터넷을 통해서...).

Preguntas frecuentes

10 preguntas

No, it is generally unnatural to use '~을 통해서' for simple physical tools. For example, you should not say '연필을 통해서 썼어요' (I wrote through a pencil). Instead, you must use the particle '(으)로', which indicates a tool or instrument. The correct sentence is '연필로 썼어요' (I wrote with a pencil). Reserve '~을 통해서' for abstract mediums, channels, or intermediary people.

There is no difference in meaning between the two. '~을 통해' is simply the shortened form of '~을 통해서'. However, there is a slight difference in usage context. '~을 통해' sounds more concise and formal, so it is heavily preferred in written Korean, news broadcasts, and academic papers. '~을 통해서' is slightly softer and is very common in everyday spoken Korean.

You cannot use '~을 통해서' for physical movement through a space. If you say '공원을 통해서 걸었어요', it sounds like you used the park as an abstract communication channel. To express physical movement, you should use verbs like '지나가다' (to pass by/through) or '가로지르다' (to cross). The correct way to say it is '공원을 지나서 걸었어요' (I walked passing through the park).

Yes, in very casual and fast spoken Korean, native speakers sometimes drop the object particle and just say the noun followed by '통해서' (e.g., '친구 통해서 들었어' instead of '친구를 통해서 들었어'). However, as a learner, it is highly recommended to practice using the full correct form with the particle to build a strong grammatical foundation. Dropping it in writing or formal speech is considered an error.

To use '~을 통해서' with an action (verb), you must first turn the verb into a noun phrase. You do this by attaching '~는 것' to the verb stem. For example, the verb '읽다' (to read) becomes '읽는 것' (the act of reading). Then you attach the particle and phrase: '읽는 것을 통해서' (through reading). Example: '책을 읽는 것을 통해서 배웁니다' (I learn through reading books).

Yes, absolutely. '~을 통해서' is a completely neutral phrase that simply indicates the channel or medium. It does not carry a positive or negative connotation on its own. You can say '실수를 통해서 배웠어요' (I learned through my mistakes) or '나쁜 소문을 통해서 알게 되었어요' (I found out through a bad rumor). If you want to emphasize a positive cause, use '~덕분에' (thanks to) instead.

'통하다' is the root verb of this phrase. It has several meanings, all related to the concept of 'going through' or 'connecting'. It can mean physical flow (e.g., '바람이 통하다' - the wind flows through), communication (e.g., '말이 통하다' - words communicate/we understand each other), or being effective/accepted (e.g., '그 방법은 안 통해요' - that method doesn't work/go through). '~을 통해서' specifically utilizes the 'channel/medium' aspect of this verb.

No, '~을 통해서' is not used for durations of time. To say 'throughout the year' or 'all year round', you would use a different expression like '일 년 내내' or '일 년 동안'. The word '통해서' is strictly for the *means* or *channel* of an action, not the *duration* of time.

'매개로' (using as a medium) is a highly formal, academic synonym for '~을 통해서'. You will mostly see it in advanced literature, academic papers, or formal critiques (e.g., '예술을 매개로' - through the medium of art). It means essentially the same thing but elevates the register of the sentence. For everyday conversation, '~을 통해서' is much more natural and appropriate.

Yes, very frequently. It is a core grammar point for TOPIK II (levels 3-6). You will see it constantly in the reading and listening sections, especially in passages about news, science, or society. More importantly, using '~을 통해(서)' correctly in the writing section (Questions 53 and 54) is an excellent way to demonstrate logical sentence connection and will positively impact your score.

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Ponte a prueba 200 preguntas

writing

Translate to Korean: 'I heard the news through a friend.'

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

Sample answer

저는 친구를 통해서 그 뉴스를 들었어요.