At the A1 level, you don't need to use the word '성전' often, but you might see it in simple stories or religious contexts. Think of it as a very special, holy 'house' (집). It is a noun that means a place where people pray and meet God. In Korean, we usually use '교회' (church) for everyday talk, but '성전' is used when we want to say the building is very holy and important. You can remember it as 'Sacred House.' For example, '성전이 커요' (The holy temple is big). At this stage, just recognize that it is a place for prayer that is more formal than a regular church building.
At the A2 level, you can start to understand the difference between '성전' and other words like '교회' (church) or '성당' (cathedral). '성전' is a Sino-Korean word (Hanja), which makes it sound more formal and academic. You might hear it in a Korean church service or read it in a basic history book about ancient times. It is used to describe famous holy buildings like the ones in Jerusalem or ancient Greece. You can use it in simple sentences like '성전에 가요' (I go to the holy temple) or '성전은 아름다워요' (The holy temple is beautiful). It's a useful word to know if you are interested in Korean culture or religion.
At the B1 level, you should be able to use '성전' in more complex sentences and understand its metaphorical meanings. For example, you might hear the phrase '예술의 성전' (Temple of Art) or '학문의 성전' (Temple of Learning). Here, '성전' isn't a literal religious building, but a place that is highly respected and dedicated to a specific purpose. You should also be aware of its usage in passive or descriptive forms, like '성전으로 불리다' (to be called a holy temple). This is the level where you start to appreciate the 'holiness' (거룩함) that this word carries compared to the more functional '교회'.
At the B2 level, you are expected to understand the historical and theological nuances of '성전'. You will encounter this word in literature, high-level news reports, and religious texts. You should be able to distinguish it from its homonym '성전' (Holy War) based on context. You can use it to describe the architectural significance of a site or the spiritual state of a person. For instance, '그는 자신의 몸을 성전처럼 소중히 여겼다' (He treated his body as preciously as a holy temple). You should also be comfortable with related collocations like '성전 건축' (temple construction) and '성전 봉헌' (temple dedication).
At the C1 level, you should have a deep grasp of the cultural and historical weight of '성전'. You can use it in academic essays to discuss the role of sacred spaces in society. You will understand how the word functions in various religious traditions (Christianity, Judaism, etc.) and how it contrasts with terms like '신전' (shrine for gods). You can analyze the use of '성전' in poetry or classical literature, where it might symbolize purity, the presence of the divine, or the ultimate goal of a spiritual journey. Your usage should reflect an understanding of its formal register and the respect it commands.
At the C2 level, you possess a native-like intuition for '성전'. You can engage in complex theological or philosophical debates where the definition of a 'temple' is central. You understand the subtle shift in meaning when '성전' is used in different historical eras of Korea. You can use the word with sophisticated grammar patterns and in highly formal oratorical styles. You are also aware of rare idioms or obscure references involving '성전' in classical Hanja texts. For you, '성전' is not just a vocabulary word, but a concept that carries thousands of years of human aspiration and devotion.

성전 en 30 secondes

  • 성전 refers to a holy temple or sacred sanctuary, emphasizing its divine status and majestic architecture in religious or historical contexts.
  • It is a formal noun derived from Hanja, meaning 'Holy Palace,' and is used for specific sacred buildings rather than everyday local churches.
  • Metaphorically, it can describe the human body or highly respected institutions like libraries or art centers as 'temples' of a specific value.
  • Commonly heard in religious sermons, historical dramas, and academic discussions, it requires a formal register and respectful tone.

The Korean word 성전 (聖殿) is a profound noun that translates most directly to 'Holy Temple' or 'Sacred Sanctuary.' Derived from the Hanja characters 성 (聖 - Holy/Sacred) and 전 (殿 - Palace/Great Hall), it evokes a sense of grandeur, divinity, and deep spiritual significance. Unlike the more common words for religious buildings such as 교회 (church) or 절 (Buddhist temple), 성전 specifically highlights the sacred nature of the space as a dwelling place for the divine or a site of supreme worship.

Religious Context
In Christianity and Judaism, it refers to the Temple of Jerusalem or a consecrated church building. In a broader sense, it can refer to any building dedicated to a deity across various faiths, emphasizing its status as a 'Holy House.'
Metaphorical Usage
Beyond physical architecture, 성전 is often used to describe the human body as a 'temple of the soul' or to describe a place that should be treated with utmost respect, such as a 'temple of learning' (학문의 성전).
Architectural Majesty
The term suggests a structure of significant scale and historical or spiritual weight. It is rarely used for small, local chapels unless emphasizing their holiness during a dedication ceremony.

우리는 마음의 성전을 깨끗이 해야 합니다.

— Translation: We must keep the temple of our hearts clean.

When you encounter this word in modern Korea, it is most frequently heard in religious sermons, historical documentaries, or academic discussions about ancient civilizations. It carries a formal and respectful tone. For instance, a pastor might refer to the church building as a 성전 to remind the congregation of its sanctity, whereas a tourist might simply call it a 건물 (building) or 교회 (church).

솔로몬은 예루살렘에 거대한 성전을 완공했습니다.

— Translation: Solomon completed a massive holy temple in Jerusalem.

In literature, authors use 성전 to elevate the status of a location. If a library is called a 'temple of knowledge' (지식의 성전), it implies that the books within are sacred and the act of reading is a form of devotion. This rhetorical device is common in Korean essays and formal speeches.

Historical Context
Historically, the term was used for the main halls of royal palaces or major shrines where ancestral rites were performed. Today, it has been largely adopted by the Christian community to refer to their sanctuaries.

이곳은 수천 년의 역사를 간직한 성전입니다.

— Translation: This is a holy temple that preserves thousands of years of history.

Using 성전 correctly requires an understanding of its register. It is a formal, high-level noun. You wouldn't typically use it when asking for directions to a neighborhood church. Instead, use it when discussing the sanctity, architecture, or spiritual role of a sacred space. It often appears as the object of verbs like 건축하다 (to build), 봉헌하다 (to dedicate/consecrate), or 보존하다 (to preserve).

Subject Marker (-이/가)
Used when the temple is the focus of the sentence. Example: 성전이 매우 아름답습니다 (The holy temple is very beautiful).
Object Marker (-을/를)
Used when someone is doing something to the temple. Example: 사람들이 성전을 청소하고 있습니다 (People are cleaning the holy temple).

그들은 새로운 성전을 짓기 위해 헌금을 모았습니다.

— Translation: They collected offerings to build a new holy temple.

In a metaphorical sense, the word is often paired with the possessive particle 의 (of). For example, 예술의 성전 (Temple of Art) is the name of a famous performing arts center in Seoul (Seoul Arts Center). This usage implies that the place is a sanctuary for that specific field.

몸은 영혼의 성전이므로 소중히 다뤄야 합니다.

— Translation: Since the body is the temple of the soul, it must be treated with care.

When describing the physical state of a temple, adjectives like 웅장한 (grand/magnificent), 거룩한 (holy), or 고대 (ancient) are frequently used. These modifiers reinforce the sacred and impressive nature of the 성전.

Common Verb Pairings
성전에 들어가다 (To enter the temple), 성전을 훼손하다 (To desecrate the temple), 성전을 완공하다 (To complete the temple construction).

그 고대 성전의 기둥들은 여전히 굳건히 서 있습니다.

— Translation: The pillars of that ancient holy temple still stand firm.

You will encounter the word 성전 in specific, high-stakes environments. It is not a word for the supermarket or the gym. Its presence signals that the conversation has turned toward the spiritual, the historical, or the highly esteemed.

In Churches and Religious Services
During a Sunday service (예배), a pastor might say, "Let us enter the 성전 with a humble heart." It refers to the sanctuary where the congregation meets to worship God.
In Historical Dramas (Sageuk)
When watching dramas set in the Joseon or Goryeo dynasties, characters may refer to sacred shrines or royal prayer halls as 성전. It highlights the divine authority of the monarchy or the state religion of the time.
In News and Documentaries
If there is a report on archaeological finds in Egypt, Greece, or Israel, the narrator will use 성전 to describe the ruins of temples dedicated to gods like Ra, Athena, or the God of Israel.

오늘 뉴스에서 그리스의 고대 성전 복원 소식을 들었습니다.

— Translation: I heard news about the restoration of an ancient Greek holy temple on the news today.

Furthermore, in the world of high culture, the 예술의 전당 (Seoul Arts Center) is often colloquially or poetically referred to as the 예술의 성전. This usage elevates the arts to a religious level of importance, suggesting that music and theater provide a spiritual experience for the audience.

그 영화의 배경은 숲속에 숨겨진 신비로운 성전이었습니다.

— Translation: The setting of that movie was a mysterious holy temple hidden in the forest.
Academic Textbooks
In world history or ethics textbooks, 성전 is used to discuss the role of religion in shaping civilizations, particularly when referring to the Parthenon or the Second Temple of Jerusalem.

While 성전 is a straightforward noun, learners often make mistakes regarding its homonyms and its specificity compared to other religious terms.

The 'Holy War' Confusion
As mentioned, 성전 (聖戰) means 'Holy War.' While the Hangeul is identical, the Hanja for 'war' (戰) is different. In modern contexts, if you hear about a 'holy war' in the news regarding international conflicts, it's this version. Don't confuse it with the building!
Overusing it for Ordinary Buildings
Do not use 성전 to refer to any church or temple you see. If you are meeting a friend at a church, say 교회 앞에서 봐요 (Let's meet in front of the church). Calling it a 성전 in a casual context sounds unnaturally stiff or overly religious.
Confusing with '성당' (Cathedral/Catholic Church)
In Korea, 성당 (聖堂) specifically refers to a Catholic church building. While a Catholic church is a 성전 (holy temple), the standard term for the building itself is 성당. Using 성전 might make people think you are talking about the Temple of Solomon rather than the local parish.

❌ 저기 예쁜 성전이 있어요. (Too formal/odd for a casual observation)
✅ 저기 예쁜 교회/성당이 있어요.

Another mistake is forgetting that 성전 is a noun and cannot be turned into a verb by just adding -하다. You cannot say '성전하다.' You must use a supporting verb like 건축하다 (construct) or 방문하다 (visit).

Spelling Error: 성점 vs 성전
Ensure you use the 'n' sound (ㄴ) at the end. 성점 is not a common word and would be confusing.

Korean has many words for religious structures, each with a specific nuance. Choosing the right one depends on the religion and the level of formality.

교회 (敎會 - Church)
The most common word for a Protestant church. It refers to both the building and the community of believers.
성당 (聖堂 - Cathedral/Catholic Church)
Exclusively used for Catholic churches in Korea. It carries a slightly more formal and aesthetic connotation than '교회'.
절 (Temple - Buddhist)
The native Korean word for a Buddhist temple. If you want to be more formal, you can use 사찰 (寺刹).
신전 (神殿 - Shrine/Temple of Gods)
Used primarily for polytheistic religions, such as Greek or Roman mythology (e.g., 파르테논 신전). While 성전 focuses on 'holiness,' 신전 focuses on the 'gods' residing there.

비교:
1. 성전: 거룩한 장소라는 가치에 집중.
2. 교회: 예배를 드리는 장소와 모임에 집중.
3. 신전: 특정 신이 모셔진 건물에 집중.

In academic writing, you might also see 사원 (寺院), which is a general term for a religious house or monastery, often used for Islamic mosques (이슬람 사원) or Hindu temples.

이 건물은 마치 지혜의 성전과도 같습니다.

— Translation: This building is like a holy temple of wisdom.

How Formal Is It?

Le savais-tu ?

In ancient Korea, the word '전' (殿) was reserved for the highest-ranking buildings, such as those belonging to the King or a God. This is why '성전' sounds so much more majestic than '교회'.

Guide de prononciation

UK sʌŋ.dʑʌn
US sʌŋ.dʑʌn
The stress is balanced between the two syllables, but '성' is often slightly longer in formal speech.
Rime avec
궁전 (Palace) 대전 (Great War / Large Hall) 발전 (Development) 안전 (Safety) 완전 (Perfection) 작전 (Operation) 정전 (Power Outage / Ceasefire) 충전 (Charging)
Erreurs fréquentes
  • Pronouncing '성' like 'song' (too rounded).
  • Making the 'j' in '전' too hard like 'John'.
  • Confusing the final 'n' with 'm' (성점).
  • Shortening the first syllable too much in religious settings.
  • Misplacing the pitch (it should be relatively flat or slightly falling).

Niveau de difficulté

Lecture 3/5

Easy to recognize in texts, but requires Hanja knowledge for deep understanding.

Écriture 4/5

Must be careful with spelling and formal verb pairings.

Expression orale 3/5

Pronunciation is simple, but choosing the right context is key.

Écoute 4/5

Can be confused with 'Holy War' (성전) if context is missed.

Quoi apprendre ensuite

Prérequis

교회 건물 거룩하다 사람

Apprends ensuite

봉헌 제사 신앙 영성 축복

Avancé

axis mundi 지성소 언약궤 제사장 회막

Grammaire à connaître

Noun + -(이)라고 부르다 (To call something...)

사람들은 이곳을 지혜의 성전이라고 부릅니다.

Noun + -처럼 (Like...)

그녀는 집을 성전처럼 깨끗하게 청소했습니다.

Noun + -의 (Possessive)

성전의 문은 항상 열려 있어야 합니다.

Noun + -을/를 위해 (For the sake of...)

성전 건축을 위해 많은 사람들이 헌신했습니다.

Noun + -(이)므로 (Because it is...)

몸은 성전이므로 함부로 다뤄서는 안 됩니다.

Exemples par niveau

1

성전이 아주 커요.

The holy temple is very big.

Simple subject-adjective structure.

2

우리는 성전에 갑니다.

We are going to the holy temple.

Destination particle -에.

3

성전은 조용해요.

The holy temple is quiet.

Topic marker -은.

4

성전 안을 보세요.

Look inside the holy temple.

Object marker -을 and imperative -세요.

5

성전이 예뻐요.

The holy temple is pretty.

Adjective '예쁘다' in polite form.

6

여기가 성전입니까?

Is this the holy temple?

Interrogative formal ending -입니까.

7

성전 옆에 나무가 있어요.

There is a tree next to the holy temple.

Location particle -에 with '있다'.

8

성전에서 기도해요.

I pray in the holy temple.

Location of action particle -에서.

1

이 성전은 백 년 전에 지어졌어요.

This holy temple was built a hundred years ago.

Passive voice '지어지다'.

2

성전 안에서 사진을 찍지 마세요.

Please do not take pictures inside the holy temple.

Negative imperative -지 마세요.

3

많은 사람들이 성전을 방문합니다.

Many people visit the holy temple.

Formal verb '방문하다'.

4

성전의 문이 열려 있어요.

The door of the holy temple is open.

State of being -어 있다.

5

어제 친구와 성전에 갔어요.

I went to the holy temple with a friend yesterday.

Past tense -았/었어요.

6

성전은 산 위에 있습니다.

The holy temple is on top of the mountain.

Honorific location '있습니다'.

7

성전 건물이 정말 웅장해요.

The temple building is truly magnificent.

Adverb '정말' used for emphasis.

8

우리는 성전에서 노래를 불렀어요.

We sang songs in the holy temple.

Irregular verb '부르다' in past tense.

1

서울 예술의 성전에서 공연을 봤어요.

I watched a performance at the Seoul Arts Center (Temple of Art).

Metaphorical use of '성전'.

2

성전을 깨끗하게 관리하는 것이 중요합니다.

It is important to manage the holy temple cleanly.

Gerund form -는 것.

3

그곳은 고대 로마의 성전 유적지입니다.

That place is the ruins of an ancient Roman holy temple.

Noun '유적지' (ruins).

4

성전 봉헌식을 위해 준비를 많이 했어요.

We prepared a lot for the temple dedication ceremony.

Noun '봉헌식' (dedication ceremony).

5

마음의 성전을 가꾸는 법을 배워야 해요.

We must learn how to cultivate the temple of the heart.

Metaphorical usage.

6

성전 건축을 위한 모금이 시작되었습니다.

Fundraising for the temple construction has begun.

Passive verb '시작되다'.

7

이 성전은 유네스코 세계문화유산입니다.

This holy temple is a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Formal identification.

8

성전 입구에는 사자 동상이 서 있습니다.

There are lion statues standing at the temple entrance.

Describing a scene with -어 있다.

1

성전의 거룩함을 훼손하는 행위는 금지됩니다.

Acts that desecrate the holiness of the temple are prohibited.

Noun '거룩함' (holiness) and '훼손' (desecration).

2

그는 자신의 몸을 하느님의 성전이라고 믿습니다.

He believes his body is a temple of God.

Indirect quotation -라고 믿다.

3

예루살렘 성전의 역사는 매우 복잡합니다.

The history of the Jerusalem Temple is very complex.

Adjective '복잡하다' (complex).

4

성전 내부의 장식은 황금으로 만들어졌습니다.

The decorations inside the temple were made of gold.

Material particle -으로.

5

성전은 종교적 중심지 역할을 해왔습니다.

The temple has played the role of a religious center.

Present perfect progressive equivalent -해 오다.

6

고대인들은 성전을 신과 소통하는 통로로 여겼습니다.

Ancient people regarded the temple as a path to communicate with God.

Structure A를 B로 여기다 (Regard A as B).

7

성전 재건 사업이 본격적으로 추진되고 있습니다.

The temple reconstruction project is being promoted in earnest.

Progressive passive -고 있다.

8

성전의 엄숙한 분위기에 압도당했습니다.

I was overwhelmed by the solemn atmosphere of the temple.

Passive '압도당하다' (to be overwhelmed).

1

성전은 인간의 유한함과 신의 무한함이 만나는 지점입니다.

The temple is the point where human finitude and divine infinity meet.

Abstract philosophical nouns.

2

그 소설가는 도서관을 지식의 성전으로 묘사했습니다.

The novelist described the library as a temple of knowledge.

Verb '묘사하다' (to describe).

3

성전 파괴는 한 민족의 정체성에 큰 타격을 주었습니다.

The destruction of the temple dealt a great blow to a nation's identity.

Noun '정체성' (identity).

4

현대 사회에서 성전의 의미는 점차 변화하고 있습니다.

The meaning of the temple is gradually changing in modern society.

Adverb '점차' (gradually).

5

성전 건축 양식은 당대의 철학을 반영합니다.

The architectural style of the temple reflects the philosophy of the time.

Verb '반영하다' (to reflect).

6

그들은 성전을 정화하기 위해 의식을 거행했습니다.

They performed a ritual to purify the temple.

Verb '거행하다' (to perform/conduct).

7

성전은 단순한 건물을 넘어 영적인 안식처입니다.

The temple is a spiritual haven beyond just a simple building.

Structure -을 넘어 (beyond).

8

성전의 상징성은 종교 예술에서 핵심적인 주제입니다.

The symbolism of the temple is a core theme in religious art.

Adjective '핵심적인' (core/key).

1

성전의 붕괴는 구질서의 종말과 신질서의 도래를 상징했습니다.

The collapse of the temple symbolized the end of the old order and the advent of a new one.

High-level vocabulary: 종말, 도래.

2

그 철학자는 육체를 영혼이 거주하는 일시적인 성전이라 칭했습니다.

The philosopher called the physical body a temporary temple where the soul resides.

Verb '칭하다' (to call/name).

3

성전의 공간 배치는 우주의 질서를 형상화한 것입니다.

The spatial layout of the temple is an embodiment of the cosmic order.

Verb '형상화하다' (to embody/visualize).

4

성전은 세속적 공간과 성스러운 공간을 가르는 경계입니다.

The temple is the boundary that separates secular space from sacred space.

Contrast between '세속적' and '성스러운'.

5

성전 건립에 투입된 막대한 자원은 당시의 국력을 방증합니다.

The enormous resources invested in building the temple attest to the national power of the time.

Verb '방증하다' (to attest/circumstantially prove).

6

그는 성전의 침묵 속에서 절대자와의 교감을 시도했습니다.

In the silence of the temple, he attempted to commune with the Absolute.

Noun '교감' (communion).

7

성전의 퇴락은 신앙의 쇠퇴를 상징적으로 보여줍니다.

The decay of the temple symbolically shows the decline of faith.

Nouns '퇴락' (decay) and '쇠퇴' (decline).

8

성전은 인간이 신성에 도달하고자 하는 갈망의 결정체입니다.

The temple is the crystallization of human longing to reach the divine.

Noun '결정체' (crystallization).

Synonymes

신전 사원 성당 교회 사찰 불당 전당 수도원

Antonymes

속계 저잣거리 유흥가 폐가

Collocations courantes

성전을 건축하다
성전을 봉헌하다
성전을 정화하다
성전 뜰
성전 휘장
성전 기명
성전 파괴
성전 재건
성전 중심
성전 수리

Phrases Courantes

마음의 성전

— The temple of the heart; refers to one's spiritual or inner state.

마음의 성전을 거룩하게 지키십시오.

몸은 성전이다

— The body is a temple; emphasizing physical health and purity.

몸은 성전이므로 술과 담배를 멀리해야 합니다.

학문의 성전

— The temple of learning; refers to a university or a library.

대학은 진리를 탐구하는 학문의 성전입니다.

예술의 성전

— The temple of art; refers to a place like a grand theater or gallery.

그 공연장은 예술의 성전이라 불릴 만합니다.

성전의 침묵

— The silence of the temple; a deep, reverent silence.

성전의 침묵 속에서 기도를 드렸습니다.

성전 문턱

— The threshold of the temple; entering a sacred space.

성전 문턱을 넘을 때 경건한 마음을 가졌습니다.

성전의 등불

— The lamp of the temple; symbolizes hope or divine presence.

성전의 등불은 밤새 꺼지지 않았습니다.

성전 기둥

— Pillar of the temple; refers to a key leader or foundational element.

그는 우리 공동체의 성전 기둥 같은 존재입니다.

성전 예배

— Temple worship; a formal religious service.

내일은 성전 예배가 있는 날입니다.

성전의 영광

— The glory of the temple; the majesty of the sacred space.

성전의 영광이 온 땅에 가득했습니다.

Souvent confondu avec

성전 vs 성전 (聖戰)

Means 'Holy War'. Sounds identical but has different Hanja and meaning.

성전 vs 성당 (聖堂)

Specifically refers to a Catholic church building.

성전 vs 신전 (神殿)

Refers to temples of polytheistic gods (e.g., Zeus).

Expressions idiomatiques

"성전의 기둥이 되다"

— To become a pillar of the temple; to be a vital leader in a community.

그는 교회의 성전 기둥이 되어 헌신했습니다.

Religious/Formal
"성전 마당만 밟다"

— To only step on the temple courtyard; to attend religious services without sincere faith.

형식적으로 교회에 다니는 것을 성전 마당만 밟는다고 합니다.

Religious/Metaphorical
"성전을 헐다"

— To tear down the temple; often used biblically to mean destroying the old to build the new.

이 성전을 헐라, 내가 사흘 만에 일으키리라.

Biblical/Literary
"성전의 휘장이 찢어지다"

— The temple veil is torn; meaning a barrier between the divine and human is removed.

그의 죽음으로 성전의 휘장이 찢어졌습니다.

Biblical
"성전에 제물을 바치다"

— To offer a sacrifice at the temple; to give something precious for a higher cause.

그들은 정성을 다해 성전에 제물을 바쳤습니다.

Historical/Religious
"성전의 파수꾼"

— Watchman of the temple; someone who protects sacred values.

우리는 진리의 성전을 지키는 파수꾼이 되어야 합니다.

Poetic/Religious
"성전에서 장사하다"

— To trade in the temple; to use a sacred place for personal profit.

성전에서 장사하는 행위는 비난받아 마땅합니다.

Religious/Critical
"성전의 기초를 놓다"

— To lay the foundation of the temple; to start a great and sacred work.

우리는 오늘 새로운 성전의 기초를 놓았습니다.

Formal
"성전의 향기"

— The fragrance of the temple; a sense of holiness or peace.

그의 삶에서는 성전의 향기가 묻어납니다.

Poetic
"성전으로 올라가다"

— To go up to the temple; a spiritual journey or pilgrimage.

절기 때마다 백성들은 성전으로 올라갔습니다.

Religious

Facile à confondre

성전 vs 성전 (聖殿)

Identical pronunciation with 'Holy War'.

聖殿 is a building; 聖戰 is a war. Context usually dictates the meaning.

성전을 건축하다 (Build a temple) vs 성전을 선포하다 (Declare a holy war).

성전 vs 성당

Both mean holy buildings.

성당 is the specific name for Catholic churches; 성전 is a general term for any holy temple.

명동 성당 (Myeongdong Cathedral) vs 예루살렘 성전 (Jerusalem Temple).

성전 vs 교회

Both refer to places of worship.

교회 emphasizes the community/organization; 성전 emphasizes the holiness of the physical space.

교회에 다니다 (Attend church) vs 성전에 들어가다 (Enter the holy temple).

성전 vs 신전

Both mean temple.

신전 is used for 'gods' (plural/mythological); 성전 is used for 'Holy' (singular/monotheistic or metaphorical).

그리스 신전 (Greek temple) vs 솔로몬 성전 (Solomon's temple).

성전 vs 사원

General term for religious buildings.

사원 is a broad category; 성전 is more specific to the 'palace-like' holiness.

이슬람 사원 (Mosque) vs 학문의 성전 (Temple of learning).

Structures de phrases

A1

N은/는 N입니다

이곳은 성전입니다.

A2

N에 가요

저는 성전에 가요.

B1

N의 N

마음의 성전을 지키세요.

B2

N을/를 N(으)로 여기다

몸을 성전으로 여기세요.

C1

N을/를 넘어 N이다

성전은 건물을 넘어 안식처입니다.

C2

N의 N화

공간의 성전화는 중요한 의식입니다.

B1

N을/를 위해 N하다

성전 건축을 위해 기도합니다.

B2

N에 의해 N되다

성전은 적들에 의해 파괴되었습니다.

Famille de mots

Noms

성전 (Holy Temple)
성역 (Sacred Area)
성소 (Holy Place)
성물 (Holy Object)

Verbes

성전화하다 (To make into a holy temple - rare)
봉헌하다 (To dedicate)

Adjectifs

성전다운 (Temple-like)
거룩한 (Holy)
신성한 (Sacred)

Apparenté

교회
성당
신전
예배
제사

Comment l'utiliser

frequency

Common in religious and literary contexts; rare in daily secular conversation.

Erreurs courantes
  • Using '성전' for a regular house. 집 (Jip)

    '성전' is only for sacred or highly respected places.

  • Confusing '성전' with '성전' (Holy War). Contextual check

    One is a building, the other is a conflict. Check the verbs used.

  • Saying '성전하다'. 성전을 건축하다

    '성전' is a noun and doesn't naturally combine with '하다' to form a verb.

  • Spelling it as '성정'. 성전

    '성정' means nature or character. The 'n' sound is crucial.

  • Using '성전' in very casual Banmal. Use formal speech

    The word itself is formal; using it with casual endings sounds mismatched.

Astuces

Learn the Hanja

Learning 聖 (Holy) and 殿 (Palace) will help you understand dozens of other high-level Korean words.

Metaphor Power

Use '성전' metaphorically for things you deeply respect, like '지식의 성전' (Library) or '가정의 성전' (Home).

Context Clues

If you hear '성전' in a movie, look at the setting. If there are swords, it might be 'Holy War'. If there are altars, it's 'Holy Temple'.

Formal Endings

Always pair '성전' with formal speech endings like -습니다 or -하십시오 to match its high register.

Respect the Space

When a Korean friend refers to their church as '성전', they are expressing deep devotion. Acknowledge it with respect.

The 'Seong' Sound

Practice the 'eo' (ㅓ) sound. It's not 'o'. It's an open 'uh' sound. Seong-jeon.

Palace Connection

Remember that 'jeon' (殿) is the same 'jeon' in 'Gyeongbokgung Palace' halls. It's a grand building.

Particle Choice

Use -에서 when doing an activity inside the temple (praying, singing) and -에 when just going there.

Biblical Reading

If you read a Korean Bible, '성전' will appear hundreds of times. It's a great way to see the word in context.

Don't Overuse

Don't call a small neighborhood chapel a '성전' unless the members themselves do. '교회' is safer for small buildings.

Mémorise-le

Moyen mnémotechnique

Think of 'SEONG' as 'Saint' and 'JEON' as 'June' (a bright month). A Saint in a bright palace is a Holy Temple.

Association visuelle

Imagine a white marble palace with a golden roof, surrounded by glowing light. This is the '성전'.

Word Web

Holy God Architecture Sacred Worship Palace Sanctuary Jerusalem

Défi

Try to use '성전' in a sentence describing your favorite quiet place, even if it's not a religious building.

Origine du mot

From the Hanja 聖殿. 聖 (seong) means 'holy' or 'saintly,' and 殿 (jeon) means 'palace' or 'great hall.' Together, they signify a 'Holy Palace.'

Sens originel : A grand hall dedicated to a deity or used for royal ancestral rites.

Sino-Korean (Hanja-based).

Contexte culturel

When visiting a '성전' in Korea, always dress modestly and maintain silence. It is considered a place where the divine dwells.

In English, 'Temple' can refer to Jewish, Buddhist, or Hindu sites. In Korean, '성전' is mostly used for Christian/Jewish contexts or metaphorical 'temples'.

The Temple of Jerusalem (예루살렘 성전) Seoul Arts Center (예술의 성전) The Parthenon (파르테논 신전 - note '신전' is used here, but '성전' is used in poetic descriptions)

Pratique dans la vie réelle

Contextes réels

Religious Sermon

  • 성전으로 모입시다
  • 성전을 거룩히 합시다
  • 하나님의 성전
  • 성전의 은혜

Historical Tour

  • 이 성전은 고대 유적입니다
  • 성전의 기둥
  • 성전 건축 양식
  • 성전의 복원

Artistic Discussion

  • 예술의 성전
  • 무대의 성전
  • 창작의 성전
  • 성전과 같은 분위기

Medical/Health (Metaphor)

  • 몸은 영혼의 성전
  • 성전을 가꾸듯 몸을 관리하세요
  • 건강한 성전
  • 성전의 정화

Academic Writing

  • 성전의 사회적 역할
  • 성전과 정치
  • 성전의 상징성
  • 성전의 변천사

Amorces de conversation

"유럽 여행 중에 가본 가장 아름다운 성전은 어디였나요?"

"사람의 몸을 성전이라고 부르는 것에 대해 어떻게 생각하세요?"

"성전과 일반 건물의 차이점은 무엇이라고 생각하시나요?"

"예술의 성전에서 공연을 본 적이 있으신가요?"

"고대 성전들이 지금까지 보존될 수 있었던 이유는 무엇일까요?"

Sujets d'écriture

나만의 '마음의 성전'을 평화롭게 유지하기 위해 오늘 무엇을 했는지 써보세요.

만약 내가 성전을 건축한다면, 어떤 재료와 디자인을 선택하고 싶은지 묘사해 보세요.

성전처럼 신성하게 느껴지는 장소에 방문했던 경험을 기록해 보세요.

학문의 성전인 학교에서 오늘 배운 가장 소중한 가치는 무엇인가요?

현대 사회에서 성전이 가지는 의미가 과거와 어떻게 달라졌는지 고찰해 보세요.

Questions fréquentes

10 questions

While technically possible, it is rare. Buddhists usually use '절' or '사찰'. '성전' is more common in Christian, Jewish, or ancient Greek/Roman contexts.

'신전' (神殿) focuses on the 'God' (神) residing there, often used for mythology. '성전' (聖殿) focuses on the 'Holiness' (聖) of the space.

Not usually. You will hear it in church, see it in a museum, or read it in a book. Using it to describe your house would sound very strange unless you are being poetic.

It is '예루살렘 성전' (Yerusalem Seongjeon).

It is a metaphorical use to show that the center is a 'sacred' place for high art and culture, deserving of great respect.

Yes, it is a clear dental nasal 'n'. Make sure not to let it sound like 'm'.

Metaphorically, yes. In Christianity, a believer's body is called a '성전' because the Holy Spirit is said to dwell there.

There isn't a single word, but '세속적인 건물' (secular building) or '유흥 시설' (entertainment facility) would be the conceptual opposites.

No, every Korean knows this word, but they only use it in specific contexts.

It is better to use '이슬람 사원'. '성전' might be used in a very formal or poetic description of a mosque's holiness, but '사원' is the standard.

Teste-toi 200 questions

writing

Write a sentence using '성전' to describe a beautiful building.

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writing

Translate: 'The body is the temple of the soul.'

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writing

Write a sentence about building a holy temple.

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writing

Describe the atmosphere inside a temple using '성전'.

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writing

Use '학문의 성전' in a sentence about a library.

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writing

Translate: 'I visited an ancient temple in Greece.'

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writing

Write a formal greeting for a temple dedication ceremony.

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writing

Explain why '성전' is used instead of '교회' in a religious context.

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writing

Write a sentence about cleaning a temple.

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writing

Translate: 'The king destroyed the holy temple.'

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writing

Write a sentence using '성전의 기둥'.

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writing

Describe a sunset over a temple.

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writing

Translate: 'Please do not shout in the temple.'

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writing

Write a short prayer involving the word '성전'.

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writing

Use '성전' in a sentence about historical preservation.

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writing

Translate: 'The temple was made of gold.'

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writing

Write a sentence about a pilgrimage to a temple.

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writing

Use '마음의 성전' to give advice to a friend.

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writing

Translate: 'The temple construction took ten years.'

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writing

Write a sentence about the light inside a temple.

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speaking

Pronounce the word '성전' clearly.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say 'This is a holy temple' in Korean.

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speaking

Ask 'Where is the holy temple?' in Korean.

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speaking

Tell someone 'The temple is beautiful' in Korean.

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speaking

Say 'I am going to the temple' in Korean.

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speaking

Explain '마음의 성전' to a friend in Korean.

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speaking

Say 'The temple is very grand' using '웅장하다'.

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speaking

Ask 'When was this temple built?' in Korean.

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speaking

Say 'Our body is a temple' in Korean.

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speaking

Tell a tour group 'This is an ancient temple'.

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speaking

Say 'Let's pray in the temple' in Korean.

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speaking

Pronounce '성전 건축' (Temple construction).

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speaking

Say 'The temple was destroyed' in Korean.

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speaking

Say 'I feel peace in the temple' in Korean.

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speaking

Explain '예술의 성전' in one sentence.

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speaking

Ask 'Is it okay to take photos in the temple?'

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speaking

Say 'The temple door is open' in Korean.

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speaking

Say 'They built a new temple' in Korean.

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speaking

Pronounce '성전의 침묵' (Silence of the temple).

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speaking

Say 'The temple is holy' in Korean.

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listening

Listen and identify the word: [성전]

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listening

Listen and choose the meaning: '성전을 건축했습니다.'

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listening

Listen to the sentence: '몸은 성전입니다.' What is the body compared to?

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listening

Listen: '성전에 들어가기 전에 신발을 벗으세요.' What should you do?

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listening

Listen: '예술의 성전에서 만나요.' Where should we meet?

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listening

Listen: '고대 성전 유적지를 발견했습니다.' What was discovered?

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listening

Listen: '성전 안은 조용합니다.' What is the atmosphere like?

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listening

Listen: '성전의 기둥이 무너졌어요.' What happened?

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listening

Listen: '성전 봉헌식에 초대합니다.' What are you invited to?

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listening

Listen: '마음의 성전을 가꾸세요.' What should you cultivate?

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listening

Listen: '성전 중심의 삶.' What is the center of life?

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listening

Listen: '성전 휘장이 찢어졌습니다.' What was torn?

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listening

Listen: '성전 마당을 청소해요.' Where are they cleaning?

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listening

Listen: '성전은 거룩한 곳입니다.' What is the temple?

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listening

Listen: '성전을 재건합시다.' What should we do?

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/ 200 correct

Perfect score!

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