At the A1 level, '수영' (suyeong) is introduced as a basic hobby or activity. Learners should focus on identifying the word and using it in simple 'Subject + Object + Verb' sentences. For example, 'I like swimming' (저는 수영을 좋아해요). At this stage, the focus is on the noun form and its pairing with the verb '하다' (to do). You will encounter it in lessons about daily routines, hobbies, and likes/dislikes. You might also learn '수영장' (swimming pool) as a common location. The goal is to be able to say whether you can swim or not using simple patterns like '수영할 수 있어요' (I can swim) or '수영 못해요' (I can't swim). Understanding the Hanja roots is not required, but recognizing the 'su' sound often relates to water can be a helpful memory aid. Learners at this level should be able to answer questions like 'What is your hobby?' with 'My hobby is swimming' (제 취미는 수영이에요). It is a high-frequency word because it is a common topic for ice-breaking conversations. You will see it in basic textbooks accompanied by pictures of people in pools. Key grammar points include the object particle '을/를' and the location particle '에서'. Practice saying 'I swim at the pool' (수영장에서 수영해요) to master these basic particles.
At the A2 level, learners expand their use of '수영' to include frequency, purpose, and simple descriptions. You will start using the purpose-of-movement structure '-(으)러 가다'. For example, 'I am going to the pool to swim' (수영하러 수영장에 가요). You will also learn to describe the frequency of the activity, such as 'I swim twice a week' (일주일에 두 번 수영해요). At this stage, you should be familiar with related equipment like '수영복' (swimsuit). You might also start to differentiate between '수영' and '물놀이' (playing in water), understanding that '수영' implies a more structured activity. A2 learners should be able to talk about their past experiences, such as 'I swam in the sea last summer' (지난 여름에 바다에서 수영했어요). You will also encounter the word in the context of health and suggestions, like 'How about going swimming together?' (같이 수영하러 갈래요?). The focus is on building more complex sentences by adding adverbs like '잘' (well) or '자주' (often). You should also be able to understand basic instructions or signs at a swimming pool, such as 'No diving' or 'Shower before entering'. This level requires a move from simple identification to active participation in short conversations about the activity.
At the B1 level, '수영' is used in the context of personal health, goals, and more detailed experiences. Learners can discuss the benefits of swimming, such as 'Swimming is good for weight loss' (수영은 다이어트에 좋아요) or 'It's a good exercise for the joints' (관절에 좋은 운동이에요). You will learn specific terms for swimming styles like '자유형' (freestyle) and '평영' (breaststroke). B1 learners should be able to describe their learning process, such as 'I've been learning swimming for three months, but it's still difficult' (수영을 배운 지 석 달 됐지만 아직 어려워요). You will also encounter '수영' in more idiomatic or metaphorical contexts in media. At this level, you are expected to handle situations like signing up for a swimming class at a gym, asking about the '수강료' (tuition fee) and '시간표' (timetable). You should be able to compare swimming with other sports using structures like '~보다' (than). For example, 'I like swimming more than running' (저는 달리기보다 수영을 더 좋아해요). The focus shifts to fluency and the ability to maintain a conversation about the nuances of the sport, such as the difference between indoor and outdoor swimming.
At the B2 level, '수영' appears in discussions about competitive sports, professional training, and social issues. You might read news articles about Korean swimming stars like Hwang Sun-woo and discuss their '기록' (records) or '메달' (medals). You will understand more technical terms like '구조 수영' (rescue swimming) or '생존 수영' (survival swimming) and the reasons why they are mandatory in schools. B2 learners can express nuanced opinions about the sport, such as the pros and cons of public vs. private swimming facilities. You will also encounter the word in literary or more formal contexts, such as '수영의 역사' (the history of swimming). You should be able to use the word in complex grammatical structures, such as 'Despite the cold weather, I went swimming' (추운 날씨에도 불구하고 수영하러 갔어요). At this stage, you can also understand the cultural significance of swimming in Korea, including the 'early morning swimming' culture among office workers. You might also discuss the environmental impact of large swimming facilities or the safety regulations of public beaches. The focus is on using '수영' as a topic for debate, detailed reporting, and professional interaction.
At the C1 level, '수영' is used in abstract, academic, or highly specialized contexts. You might analyze the biomechanics of swimming or the psychological effects of water-based exercise. You will be comfortable with Hanja-heavy terms related to the root '수' (water) and '영' (swim), and how they appear in formal documents or scientific journals. C1 learners can appreciate the use of swimming as a metaphor in Korean literature or film—for example, swimming against the current of life. You can discuss the evolution of swimming techniques over decades and the sociological impact of the 'survival swimming' policy in Korea. Your vocabulary will include very specific terms like '잠영' (underwater swimming) or '접영' (butterfly stroke) used in professional analysis. You should be able to give a presentation on the health benefits of aquatic therapy or the development of national sports policies related to swimming. At this level, the word '수영' is no longer just a hobby; it is a subject of study and a tool for complex expression. You can understand subtle differences in tone when a coach gives instructions versus when a commentator describes a race.
At the C2 level, you possess a native-like grasp of '수영' and all its associated nuances. You can discuss the etymology of the word and its Hanja variants in depth. You are capable of understanding and producing complex academic papers, legal regulations regarding maritime safety, or professional sports critiques involving swimming. You can catch the most subtle wordplay or puns involving '수영' (such as those involving the common name Sooyoung). You can participate in high-level policy discussions about national athletic funding for swimming or the philosophical implications of man's relationship with water. Your use of the word is effortless, whether you are writing a poem about the stillness of a pool or a technical manual for a new swimming technique. You understand the historical context of how swimming was viewed in the Joseon dynasty versus modern Korea. At this ultimate level, '수영' is just one of many thousands of words you use with perfect precision, cultural awareness, and stylistic flair. You can navigate any social or professional situation where the topic arises, from a casual chat at a beach to a televised panel discussion on sports science.

수영 en 30 secondes

  • A fundamental Korean noun meaning 'swimming' (sport/activity).
  • Commonly used with the verb '하다' to form '수영하다' (to swim).
  • Essential for discussing hobbies, health, and summer activities.
  • Often found in compound words like '수영장' (pool) and '수영복' (swimsuit).
The Korean word 수영 (suyeong) is a fundamental noun that translates directly to 'swimming' in English. Derived from the Hanja characters (su, meaning water) and (yeong, meaning to swim), it encompasses everything from the recreational activity of splashing in a pool to the professional competitive sport seen in the Olympics. For an English speaker, understanding 수영 is your gateway to discussing fitness, summer vacations, and school physical education in Korea. Unlike some English verbs that can stand alone, 수영 is strictly a noun. To express the action 'to swim,' you must pair it with the auxiliary verb 하다 (hada), resulting in 수영하다. This distinction is crucial for beginners.
Daily Leisure
In South Korea, swimming is a highly popular form of exercise for all ages. You will often hear people talking about going to the 수영장 (suyeongjang - swimming pool) early in the morning before work. This is considered a disciplined way to start the day. The word is used when discussing hobbies, weekend plans, or fitness routines. For example, 'I like swimming' translates to 저는 수영을 좋아해요.
Educational Context
Since the mid-2010s, there has been a massive emphasis on 생존 수영 (saengjon suyeong - survival swimming) in Korean elementary schools. This is a mandatory curriculum designed to ensure children can keep themselves afloat in emergencies. Consequently, parents frequently use the word 수영 when discussing their children's after-school academies or school requirements.

내일 친구들과 바다에 수영하러 가기로 했어요. (I decided to go swimming at the sea with my friends tomorrow.)

Professional Sports
When watching the Asian Games or the Olympics, commentators will use 수영 to refer to the various aquatic disciplines. Terms like 자유형 (freestyle), 평영 (breaststroke), and 배영 (backstroke) are all sub-categories of the broad term 수영. If you are a fan of athletes like Park Tae-hwan or Hwang Sun-woo, this word will be central to your conversations about their achievements.

여름에는 수영만큼 좋은 운동이 없죠. (In summer, there is no exercise as good as swimming.)

그는 수영 실력이 아주 뛰어나요. (His swimming skills are very outstanding.)

어릴 때부터 수영을 배웠어요. (I learned swimming since I was young.)

실내 수영장은 겨울에도 이용할 수 있어요. (Indoor swimming pools can be used even in winter.)

Finally, consider the cultural nuance of 'membership' in Korea. Many people join 'Suyeong-donghohoe' (swimming clubs). In these social circles, 수영 isn't just a solo activity; it's a community event where people gather to improve their health and socialize afterward, often over a meal. This communal aspect makes the word frequently appear in social planning and community bulletin boards.
Using 수영 correctly involves understanding its role as a noun and how it interacts with different particles and verbs. The most common construction is 수영을 하다 (to do swimming). However, depending on the context, you might use it with movement verbs like 가다 (to go) or descriptive verbs to talk about ability.
Object Marker Usage
When 수영 is the direct object of a verb, you add the particle . For example, 'I like swimming' is 수영을 좋아해요. 'I am learning swimming' is 수영을 배워요. In casual speech, the is often dropped (수영 좋아해요), but for formal writing or clear communication, keeping it is safer.
Location and Action
To say where you swim, use the location particle 에서. For instance, 'I swim at the pool' is 수영장에서 수영해요. Notice how 수영장 (swimming place/pool) and 수영하다 (to swim) share the same root. This repetition is very common in Korean.

매일 아침 6시에 수영을 하러 갑니다. (I go to swim every morning at 6 o'clock.)

Describing Ability
To talk about how well someone swims, you use the noun 실력 (skill) or the verb 잘하다 (to do well). 'He is good at swimming' can be 수영을 잘해요 or 수영 실력이 좋아요. Conversely, 'I can't swim' is 수영을 못해요.

물 공포증 때문에 수영을 못 배웠어요. (I couldn't learn swimming because of a fear of water.)

이번 휴가 때는 꼭 수영을 하고 싶어요. (I really want to swim during this vacation.)

수영은 전신 운동이라서 건강에 아주 좋아요. (Swimming is a full-body workout, so it's very good for health.)

강에서 수영하는 것은 위험할 수 있습니다. (Swimming in the river can be dangerous.)

In more complex sentences, 수영 can be part of compound nouns. 수영복 (swimsuit), 수영모 (swim cap), and 수영 안경 (goggles) are all essential items you might need to buy or pack. When you go to a store, you would ask, '수영복 어디에 있어요?' (Where are the swimsuits?). Understanding these patterns allows you to navigate not just the water, but the entire lifestyle surrounding the activity in Korea.
You will encounter the word 수영 in a variety of real-life settings in Korea, ranging from casual conversations to formal announcements. One of the most common places is the local 주민센터 (community center) or private sports gyms. In Korea, many people sign up for monthly swimming classes. When you walk into these buildings, you will see signs for 수영 강습 (swimming lessons) and schedules categorized by skill level: 기초 (basic), 초급 (beginner), 중급 (intermediate), and 상급 (advanced).
At the Beach or Water Park
During the humid Korean summer, places like Haeundae Beach in Busan or Caribbean Bay (a famous water park) are packed. You will hear lifeguards shouting warnings about 수영 금지 구역 (no-swimming zones). Parents will be heard telling their children, '수영하기 전에 준비운동 해야지!' (You have to do warm-up exercises before swimming!).
In Media and Entertainment
K-Dramas often feature scenes at luxury hotel infinity pools or competitive swimming matches. Characters might discuss their 'Suyeong' skills as a point of pride or a romantic plot point. In variety shows like 'I Live Alone,' you might see celebrities visiting a pool to maintain their physique, providing a natural context for hearing the word used in a lifestyle setting.

방송: '잠시 후 수영 결승전이 시작됩니다.' (Broadcast: 'The swimming finals will begin shortly.')

Health and Medical Advice
Doctors in Korea frequently recommend 수영 to patients with joint pain or back issues because it is low-impact. If you visit a 정형외과 (orthopedics clinic), you might hear the doctor say, '허리가 안 좋으시니 수영을 해보세요' (Since your back is not good, try swimming).

친구: '우리 이번 주말에 수영하러 갈래?' (Friend: 'Do you want to go swimming this weekend?')

안내문: '수영장 안에서는 절대 뛰지 마세요.' (Notice: 'Never run inside the swimming pool area.')

뉴스: '한국 선수가 수영 종목에서 금메달을 땄습니다.' (News: 'A Korean athlete won a gold medal in the swimming event.')

엄마: '애들아, 수영복 챙겼니?' (Mom: 'Kids, did you pack your swimsuits?')

In summary, whether you are at a sports facility, a doctor's office, a school, or just watching TV, 수영 is a ubiquitous term. It is deeply integrated into the Korean lifestyle as both a health necessity and a primary summer pastime. Paying attention to these contexts will help you understand the various social weights the word carries.
While 수영 is a straightforward word, English speakers often make specific errors when integrating it into Korean sentences. The most common mistake is treating it like an English verb directly. In English, we say 'I swim,' but in Korean, you cannot say '저는 수영해요' without acknowledging that 수영 is the noun and 하다 is the action. While 수영하다 is the standard verb form, beginners often forget the 하다 entirely or misplace particles.
Confusing '수영' with '헤엄'
English speakers often look up 'swim' and find both 수영 and 헤엄 (heeom). A common mistake is using 헤엄 in a sporting context. You wouldn't say '헤엄 대회' for a swimming competition; it must be 수영 대회. 헤엄 is better suited for a fish swimming in a bowl or a person playfully treading water in a lake without a specific stroke.
Misusing Location Particles
Another frequent error is using instead of 에서. Learners often say '수영장에 수영해요'. Remember, is for destination (going TO the pool), while 에서 is for the location where an action happens (swimming AT the pool). The correct sentence is 수영장에서 수영해요.

Incorrect: 저는 수영을 가요. (I go swimming - awkward literal trans.)
Correct: 저는 수영하러 가요. (I go TO swim.)

Overusing '수영' for Water Play
If you are just playing in the water, splashing around, or using a tube at a water park, Koreans use the term 물놀이 (mulnori - water play). Calling a casual splash session '수영' can sound a bit too serious, as if you are doing laps for exercise.

Incorrect: 바다에서 수영을 했어요. (When you only waded in the water.)
Correct: 바다에서 물놀이를 했어요. (When playing in the waves.)

Incorrect: 수영 할 수 있어요? (Asking if someone is capable of the sport.)
Better: 수영 할 줄 알아요? (Do you know HOW to swim? - more natural for skills.)

Finally, be careful with the word 수영 in names. Since it is a common given name (e.g., Sooyoung from Girls' Generation), context is key. If someone says '수영이 좋아', they might mean 'I like Sooyoung' or 'I like swimming.' Usually, the presence of the subject particle 이/가 suggests a person, whereas the object particle 을/를 suggests the activity.
In Korean, the concept of moving in water can be expressed in several ways depending on the formality, the subject, and the specific action. While 수영 is the most versatile term, knowing its alternatives will make your Korean sound more natural and nuanced.
수영 (Suyeong) vs. 헤엄 (Heeom)
수영 is a Hanja-based word, making it sound more formal and technical. It is used for the sport, lessons, and structured exercise. 헤엄 is a 'pure' Korean word. It sounds more descriptive and natural. You use 헤엄 for animals ('The fish is swimming' = 물고기가 헤엄쳐요) or for humans in a non-sporting, poetic context.
물놀이 (Mulnori)
This literally means 'water play.' If you are going to a water park or the beach just to have fun, splash around, and cool off, 물놀이 is the better choice. Saying 수영하러 가요 implies you are going to swim laps or practice your strokes.

비교:
1. 개가 강에서 헤엄을 쳐요. (A dog is swimming in the river.)
2. 저는 아침마다 수영을 해요. (I swim every morning.)

잠수 (Jamsu)
This means 'diving' or 'submerging' under water. If you are swimming underwater rather than on the surface, 잠수 is the specific term. It is also used colloquially to mean 'going off the grid' or 'ghosting' (잠수 타다).
입욕 (Ipyok)
This is a very formal term meaning 'entering the bath' or 'bathing.' You might see this on signs at a 온천 (hot spring) or 목욕탕 (public bath). You definitely don't '수영' in a public bath; you '입욕' or just '씻다' (wash).

단어 비교:
- 수영: Sport, exercise, lap swimming.
- 물놀이: Playing in water, vacation fun.
- 헤엄: Natural movement, used for animals.
- 잠수: Diving, going underwater.

그는 1분 동안 잠수를 할 수 있어요. (He can stay underwater for one minute.)

Knowing these differences helps you avoid the 'dictionary trap' where you pick the first word you see. For most human activities involving movement in a pool or organized sport, 수영 remains your best and most accurate choice.

How Formal Is It?

Le savais-tu ?

The character 泳 (영) features the 'water' radical on the left, emphasizing its connection to aquatic movement. In ancient times, swimming was less a sport and more a survival skill or a way to gather food.

Guide de prononciation

UK /su.jʌŋ/
US /su.jʌŋ/
Even stress on both syllables.
Rime avec
부영 (buyeong) 주영 (juyeong) 무영 (muyeong) 유영 (yuyeong) 진영 (jinyeong) 운영 (unyeong) 환영 (hwanyeong) 투영 (tuyeong)
Erreurs fréquentes
  • Pronouncing 'yeong' like 'yang' (su-yang).
  • Making the 'u' sound too long like 'sooooo-yeong'.

Niveau de difficulté

Lecture 1/5

The word uses simple characters and is very common in basic texts.

Écriture 1/5

Only two syllables, no complex batchim (final consonants).

Expression orale 2/5

Easy to pronounce, but remember the 'eo' sound in 'yeong'.

Écoute 2/5

Can sometimes be confused with '수업' (class) or names like '수영' in fast speech.

Quoi apprendre ensuite

Prérequis

물 (Water) 하다 (To do) 가다 (To go) 좋아하다 (To like)

Apprends ensuite

수영장 (Pool) 수영복 (Swimsuit) 취미 (Hobby) 운동 (Exercise)

Avancé

자유형 (Freestyle) 평영 (Breaststroke) 배영 (Backstroke) 접영 (Butterfly) 생존 수영 (Survival swimming)

Grammaire à connaître

-(으)러 가다 (Purpose of movement)

수영하러 수영장에 가요.

-(으)ㄹ 수 있다 (Ability)

저는 수영을 할 수 있어요.

-기 전에 (Before doing)

수영하기 전에 준비운동을 해요.

-ㄴ/은 지 (Time since)

수영을 배운 지 1년 됐어요.

~보다 (Comparison)

달리기보다 수영이 더 재미있어요.

Exemples par niveau

1

저는 수영을 좋아합니다.

I like swimming.

Uses the object particle '을' and the formal polite ending '-(스)ㅂ니다'.

2

수영장에서 수영해요.

I swim at the swimming pool.

'에서' indicates the location where the action is happening.

3

수영을 할 수 있어요?

Can you swim?

The structure '-(으)ㄹ 수 있다' expresses ability.

4

제 취미는 수영이에요.

My hobby is swimming.

'취미' means hobby, and '-(이)에요' is the polite 'to be' ending.

5

오늘 수영하러 가요.

I'm going to swim today.

'-(으)러 가다' indicates the purpose of going somewhere.

6

수영이 재미있어요.

Swimming is fun.

'재미있다' means to be interesting/fun.

7

수영복이 예뻐요.

The swimsuit is pretty.

'수영복' is a compound noun: 수영 (swim) + 복 (clothes).

8

친구하고 수영해요.

I swim with a friend.

'하고' means 'with' in this context.

1

일주일에 세 번 수영을 배워요.

I learn swimming three times a week.

'번' is a counter for 'times'.

2

어제는 바다에서 수영했어요.

Yesterday, I swam in the sea.

Past tense '-았/었/였다' is used.

3

수영하기 전에 준비운동을 하세요.

Please do warm-up exercises before swimming.

'-기 전에' means 'before doing something'.

4

수영장이 집에서 가까워요.

The swimming pool is close to my house.

'가깝다' (to be close) is an irregular adjective.

5

수영 실력이 많이 늘었어요.

My swimming skills have improved a lot.

'늘다' means to improve or increase.

6

여름에는 수영이 최고예요.

Swimming is the best in summer.

'최고' means 'the best'.

7

수영 안경을 잃어버렸어요.

I lost my swimming goggles.

'잃어버리다' is the verb for losing something.

8

내일 같이 수영하러 갈까요?

Shall we go swimming together tomorrow?

'-(으)ㄹ까요?' is used for making suggestions.

1

수영은 전신 운동이라서 건강에 아주 좋아요.

Swimming is a full-body workout, so it's very good for health.

'-(이)라서' means 'because it is'.

2

저는 자유형보다 배영을 더 잘해요.

I am better at backstroke than freestyle.

'~보다' is used for comparison.

3

수영 강습을 신청하고 싶어요.

I want to sign up for swimming lessons.

'강습' means a short course or lesson.

4

어릴 때부터 수영을 배워서 물이 무섭지 않아요.

Since I learned swimming as a child, I'm not afraid of water.

'-지 않다' is a formal negation.

5

수영 모자를 꼭 써야 합니다.

You must wear a swim cap.

'-아/어/여야 하다' expresses obligation.

6

비가 와서 수영장에 사람이 별로 없어요.

Because it's raining, there aren't many people at the pool.

'별로' means 'not particularly' and is used with negatives.

7

수영을 하면 스트레스가 풀려요.

When I swim, my stress is relieved.

'스트레스가 풀리다' is a common idiom for stress relief.

8

이 수영장은 수심이 깊어서 조심해야 해요.

This pool is deep, so you have to be careful.

'수심' means water depth.

1

한국의 황선우 선수는 수영계의 새로운 스타입니다.

Korea's Hwang Sun-woo is a new star in the swimming world.

'~계' refers to a specific field or world.

2

초등학생들은 의무적으로 생존 수영을 배워야 합니다.

Elementary school students must learn survival swimming as a requirement.

'의무적으로' means 'obligatorily' or 'as a duty'.

3

수영 대회에서 은메달을 따는 쾌거를 이루었습니다.

They achieved the great feat of winning a silver medal in the swimming competition.

'쾌거' means a splendid achievement.

4

수영은 관절에 무리가 가지 않는 유산소 운동입니다.

Swimming is an aerobic exercise that doesn't put strain on the joints.

'무리가 가다' means to be strained or overexerted.

5

그 선수는 수영 실력뿐만 아니라 인성도 훌륭해요.

That athlete has not only great swimming skills but also a great personality.

'~뿐만 아니라' means 'not only... but also'.

6

수영장 물의 염소 성분 때문에 피부가 건조해졌어요.

My skin became dry because of the chlorine in the pool water.

'~ 때문에' indicates a reason or cause.

7

그는 거친 파도를 뚫고 수영을 해서 사람을 구했습니다.

He swam through the rough waves and saved a person.

'뚫고' literally means 'piercing through'.

8

수영 연맹은 새로운 규정을 발표했습니다.

The Swimming Federation announced new regulations.

'연맹' means federation or league.

1

수영의 역동적인 움직임을 화폭에 담아냈습니다.

The dynamic movements of swimming were captured on the canvas.

'화폭에 담아내다' is a literary expression for painting.

2

그녀는 수영을 통해 삶의 역경을 극복했습니다.

She overcame life's adversities through swimming.

'~을/를 통해' means 'through' or 'via'.

3

수영 영법의 과학적 분석을 통해 기록을 단축했습니다.

Records were shortened through scientific analysis of swimming strokes.

'단축하다' means to shorten or reduce (time/distance).

4

수영장 시설의 노후화로 인해 보수 공사가 필요합니다.

Renovation work is necessary due to the aging of the swimming pool facilities.

'노후화' refers to the process of becoming old or obsolete.

5

수영은 명상과 같은 심리적 안정 효과를 제공합니다.

Swimming provides a psychological stability effect similar to meditation.

'~과/와 같은' means 'like' or 'similar to'.

6

그의 수영 인생은 수많은 좌절과 도전의 연속이었습니다.

His swimming life was a series of numerous frustrations and challenges.

'~의 연속' means 'a continuation of' or 'a series of'.

7

수영 교육의 보편화가 사회 안전망 구축에 기여하고 있습니다.

The generalization of swimming education is contributing to the construction of a social safety net.

'기여하다' means to contribute to.

8

수영 중 발생하는 경련은 자칫 치명적인 사고로 이어질 수 있습니다.

Cramps occurring during swimming can potentially lead to a fatal accident.

'자칫' means 'at the slightest slip' or 'potentially'.

1

수영이라는 행위는 인간과 물의 시원적 교감을 상징합니다.

The act of swimming symbolizes the primordial communion between humans and water.

'시원적' means primordial or original.

2

그 작가는 수영하는 인간의 고독을 철학적으로 고찰했습니다.

The author philosophically examined the loneliness of a swimming human.

'고찰하다' means to contemplate or examine deeply.

3

수영 영법의 진화는 인간 신체의 한계를 극복하려는 의지의 산물입니다.

The evolution of swimming strokes is a product of the will to overcome the limits of the human body.

'~의 산물' means 'the product of'.

4

수영장 물에 투영된 그림자는 자아의 이면을 드러내는 듯합니다.

The shadow projected on the pool water seems to reveal the other side of the self.

'이면' means the hidden side or reverse side.

5

수영 국가대표팀의 선전은 국민들에게 큰 위로와 희망을 안겨주었습니다.

The good performance of the national swimming team brought great comfort and hope to the people.

'안겨주다' means to grant or give (usually something abstract).

6

수영의 메커니즘을 유체역학적 관점에서 재해석하려는 시도가 이어지고 있습니다.

Attempts to reinterpret the mechanism of swimming from a fluid dynamics perspective are continuing.

'재해석' means reinterpretation.

7

수영은 단순한 운동을 넘어, 물이라는 매질과의 치열한 사투이자 조화입니다.

Beyond simple exercise, swimming is both a fierce struggle and a harmony with the medium of water.

'사투' means a life-and-death struggle.

8

수영 인프라 확충은 국민의 삶의 질 향상을 위한 필수 과제입니다.

Expanding swimming infrastructure is an essential task for improving the quality of life of the people.

'확충' means expansion or augmentation.

Collocations courantes

수영을 하다
수영을 배우다
수영 실력
수영 대회
수영 강습
수영 선수
수영장
수영복
수영모
생존 수영

Phrases Courantes

수영하러 가다

— To go in order to swim.

친구랑 수영하러 가요.

수영할 줄 알다

— To know how to swim.

너 수영할 줄 아니?

수영을 못하다

— To be unable to swim or be bad at it.

저는 수영을 전혀 못해요.

수영이 늘다

— One's swimming skills improve.

요즘 수영이 많이 늘었네.

수영을 가르치다

— To teach swimming.

동생에게 수영을 가르쳐 줬어요.

수영 금지

— No swimming (sign).

여기는 수영 금지 구역입니다.

실내 수영

— Indoor swimming.

겨울에는 실내 수영이 좋아요.

새벽 수영

— Early morning swimming.

새벽 수영을 다니고 있어요.

수영 안경

— Swimming goggles.

수영 안경이 어디 있지?

수영 가방

— Swim bag.

수영 가방을 챙겼어요.

Souvent confondu avec

수영 vs 수업

Means 'class'. Sounds similar to '수영'.

수영 vs 수정

Means 'crystal' or 'edit'. Only shares the first syllable.

수영 vs 헤엄

Means 'swimming' (native word), used more for animals.

Expressions idiomatiques

"물 만난 수영선수"

— Like a swimmer who met water; to be in one's element.

그는 무대 위에서 물 만난 수영선수 같아요.

Informal
"수영을 잘하면 물에 빠지지 않는다"

— If you swim well, you won't drown; skill provides safety.

수영을 잘하면 물에 빠지지 않으니 걱정 마세요.

Proverbial
"맨땅에 수영하기"

— Swimming on bare ground; doing something impossible or futile.

돈 없이 사업하는 건 맨땅에 수영하기예요.

Slang/Idiom
"잠수 타다"

— To take a dive; to go off the grid or ghost someone.

그 친구는 요새 연락도 안 되고 잠수 탔어.

Slang
"물 들어올 때 노 저어라"

— Row when the water comes in; take advantage of an opportunity (often used with water themes).

지금이 기회야. 물 들어올 때 노 저어야지.

General
"식은 죽 먹기"

— Eating cold porridge; something very easy (often compared to easy swimming).

수영은 저한테 식은 죽 먹기예요.

General
"산 넘어 산"

— Mountain after mountain; one problem after another (contrast to smooth swimming).

수영을 배웠더니 이제는 다이빙이 문제네. 산 넘어 산이야.

General
"금강산도 식후경"

— Even Mt. Geumgang is after eating; you should eat before doing activities like swimming.

수영하기 전에 밥부터 먹자. 금강산도 식후경이잖아.

Proverbial
"천 리 길도 한 걸음부터"

— A journey of a thousand miles begins with one step (or one stroke).

수영도 기초부터 천천히 배워야 해. 천 리 길도 한 걸음부터니까.

Proverbial
"우물 안 개구리"

— A frog in a well; someone with a narrow perspective (doesn't know how to swim in the big ocean).

그는 자기 동네에서만 수영을 잘하는 우물 안 개구리야.

Idiom

Facile à confondre

수영 vs 수영

Common name

'수영' is also a very common female and male name.

수영이가 수영을 잘해요. (Sooyoung is good at swimming.)

수영 vs 물놀이

Both involve water

'수영' is structured exercise; '물놀이' is just playing.

아이들은 수영보다 물놀이를 좋아해요.

수영 vs 잠수

Both are in water

'수영' is on the surface; '잠수' is underwater.

잠수를 하면 수영을 더 오래 할 수 없어요.

수영 vs 목욕

Both involve water

'수영' is exercise; '목욕' is washing/bathing.

목욕탕에서 수영하면 안 돼요.

수영 vs 항해

Water movement

'수영' is by body; '항해' is by ship (sailing).

배는 항해를 하고 사람은 수영을 해요.

Structures de phrases

A1

저는 [Noun]을/를 좋아해요.

저는 수영을 좋아해요.

A1

[Location]에서 수영해요.

수영장에서 수영해요.

A2

[Noun]하러 가요.

수영하러 가요.

A2

[Noun]할 수 있어요.

수영할 수 있어요.

B1

[Noun]은/는 건강에 좋아요.

수영은 건강에 좋아요.

B1

[Noun]보다 [Noun]을/를 더 잘해요.

자유형보다 배영을 더 잘해요.

B2

[Noun] 때문에 [Result].

수영장 물 때문에 피부가 나빠졌어요.

C1

[Noun]을/를 통해 [Result].

수영을 통해 스트레스를 해소해요.

Famille de mots

Noms

수영장 (swimming pool)
수영복 (swimsuit)
수영모 (swim cap)
수영선수 (swimmer)
수영계 (swimming world)

Verbes

수영하다 (to swim)

Adjectifs

수영하기 좋다 (good for swimming)

Apparenté

물 (water)
바다 (sea)
강 (river)
파도 (wave)
운동 (exercise)

Comment l'utiliser

frequency

Very High (Top 1000 common nouns)

Erreurs courantes
  • 저는 수영해요. 저는 수영을 해요.

    While '수영해요' is used casually, beginners should use the object particle '을' to be grammatically clear.

  • 수영장에 수영해요. 수영장에서 수영해요.

    '에' is for destination; '에서' is for the location where an action occurs.

  • 물고기가 수영해요. 물고기가 헤엄쳐요.

    '수영' is for humans/sports; '헤엄' is more natural for animals.

  • 수영 가요. 수영하러 가요.

    '수영하러 가요' (going to swim) is more grammatically complete than the shortened '수영 가요'.

  • 수영을 씻어요. 수영장에서 씻어요 / 목욕해요.

    You don't 'wash' swimming; you swim in a pool and wash in a bath.

Astuces

Use the correct particle

Use '에서' for the location of swimming (수영장에서) and '을' for the activity itself (수영을 해요).

Learn compound words

Adding '장' (place) makes '수영장' (pool), and adding '복' (clothes) makes '수영복' (swimsuit).

Master the '하다' verb

Practice '수영하다' in different tenses: 수영해요, 수영했어요, 수영할 거예요.

Survival Swimming

Remember the term '생존 수영' as it is a very common topic in modern Korean society.

Morning Swimming

If you want to sound like a local, talk about '새벽 수영' (early morning swimming).

Clear 'Yeong'

Ensure the 'ng' sound is clear and doesn't blend into the next word.

Context is King

If you hear '수영', check if the speaker is talking about a person (name) or the sport.

Stroke Order

When writing '수영', make sure to write the 'ㅇ' clearly in '영'.

Hanja Connection

Remember '수' means water (水), which helps you learn other words like '수도' (tap water) or '수요일' (Wednesday/Water-day).

Join a Club

In Korea, '동호회' (clubs) are popular. Look for a '수영 동호회' to practice your Korean and swimming.

Mémorise-le

Moyen mnémotechnique

Think of 'Sue' and 'Young'. Sue is young and loves to swim. Sue-Young = Suyeong!

Association visuelle

Imagine the letter 'S' looking like a swimmer's curve in the water, and 'Y' looking like someone's arms reaching out during a stroke.

Word Web

물 (Water) 수영장 (Pool) 수영복 (Swimsuit) 수영 (Swimming) 운동 (Exercise) 취미 (Hobby) 여름 (Summer) 건강 (Health)

Défi

Try to say '저는 내일 수영장에 수영하러 가요' five times fast without stumbling.

Origine du mot

Derived from Hanja characters: 水 (수 - water) and 泳 (영 - swim).

Sens originel : To move or float in water.

Sino-Korean

Contexte culturel

None. Swimming is a universally positive and safe topic in Korea.

In Western countries, swimming is often seen as a summer leisure activity or a high school sport. In Korea, it's increasingly seen as a vital life skill and a common adult hobby for joint health.

Park Tae-hwan (First Korean Olympic gold medalist in swimming) Hwang Sun-woo (Rising star in world swimming) The movie 'No Breathing' (2013) which focuses on competitive swimmers.

Pratique dans la vie réelle

Contextes réels

At the Gym/Sports Center

  • 수영 강습 있어요? (Are there swimming lessons?)
  • 수강료가 얼마예요? (How much is the tuition?)
  • 수영장 물이 깨끗해요? (Is the pool water clean?)
  • 수영복 빌릴 수 있어요? (Can I rent a swimsuit?)

Planning a Vacation

  • 호텔에 수영장 있어요? (Is there a pool at the hotel?)
  • 바다에서 수영해도 돼요? (Can we swim in the sea?)
  • 수영복 챙겼어? (Did you pack your swimsuit?)
  • 내일 수영하러 가자. (Let's go swimming tomorrow.)

Talking about Hobbies

  • 제 취미는 수영이에요. (My hobby is swimming.)
  • 수영한 지 얼마나 됐어요? (How long have you been swimming?)
  • 어떤 영법을 제일 잘해요? (Which stroke are you best at?)
  • 수영은 건강에 좋아요. (Swimming is good for health.)

Safety and Rules

  • 여기 수영 금지예요. (Swimming is forbidden here.)
  • 구명조끼 입으세요. (Please wear a life jacket.)
  • 준비운동 하세요. (Please do warm-up exercises.)
  • 수심이 깊어요. (The water is deep.)

Watching Sports

  • 수영 결승전이에요. (It's the swimming final.)
  • 그 선수 정말 빨라요. (That swimmer is really fast.)
  • 세계 기록을 세웠어요. (They set a world record.)
  • 한국 선수를 응원해요. (I'm cheering for the Korean athlete.)

Amorces de conversation

"수영 좋아하세요? (Do you like swimming?)"

"수영할 줄 아세요? (Do you know how to swim?)"

"어디서 수영을 배우셨어요? (Where did you learn to swim?)"

"수영장에 얼마나 자주 가세요? (How often do you go to the pool?)"

"가장 좋아하는 수영 영법이 뭐예요? (What is your favorite swimming stroke?)"

Sujets d'écriture

오늘 수영장에 다녀온 이야기를 써 보세요. (Write about your visit to the pool today.)

수영을 처음 배웠을 때의 기억을 써 보세요. (Write about your memory of first learning to swim.)

수영이 건강에 좋은 이유에 대해 써 보세요. (Write about why swimming is good for health.)

가장 좋아하는 수영 선수에 대해 소개해 보세요. (Introduce your favorite swimmer.)

여름 휴가 때 바다에서 수영한 경험을 써 보세요. (Write about your experience swimming in the sea during summer vacation.)

Questions fréquentes

10 questions

'수영' is a noun. To use it as a verb, you must add '하다' to form '수영하다' (to swim). This is a common pattern for Sino-Korean words.

'수영' is a formal, Hanja-based word used for the sport and human exercise. '헤엄' is a native Korean word often used for animals or natural, unstructured swimming.

You can say '수영을 잘해요' (I swim well) or '수영 실력이 좋아요' (My swimming skills are good).

Yes, it is extremely popular as a morning exercise and a childhood skill. Most community centers have swimming pools.

They learn '생존 수영' (saengjon suyeong), which is survival swimming, to ensure they can stay afloat in emergencies.

You ask '수영장이 어디에 있어요?' (Where is the swimming pool?).

Yes, almost all public and private pools in Korea strictly require a '수영모' (swim cap) for hygiene reasons.

Freestyle is '자유형', Breaststroke is '평영', Backstroke is '배영', and Butterfly is '접영'.

No, '수영' is only for the activity of swimming. For bathing, use '목욕' or '샤워'.

Yes, it is a very popular gender-neutral name in Korea, though slightly more common for females.

Teste-toi 200 questions

writing

Translate: 'I like swimming.'

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

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Translate: 'Where is the swimming pool?'

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

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Translate: 'I am going to the pool to swim.'

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

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Translate: 'Do you know how to swim?'

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

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Translate: 'I learned swimming when I was a child.'

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

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Translate: 'Swimming is good for health.'

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

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Translate: 'Please wear a swim cap.'

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

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Translate: 'I swim twice a week.'

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

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Translate: 'The water is deep, so be careful.'

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

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Translate: 'I want to buy a new swimsuit.'

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

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Translate: 'He is a famous swimmer.'

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

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Translate: 'I went swimming in the sea yesterday.'

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

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Translate: 'Swimming is my hobby.'

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

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Translate: 'I can't swim well.'

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

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Translate: 'Let's go swimming together.'

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

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Translate: 'Don't run in the pool area.'

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

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Translate: 'I am taking swimming lessons.'

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

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Translate: 'Swimming helps relieve stress.'

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

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Translate: 'Which swimming stroke do you like?'

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

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Translate: 'I need goggles and a towel.'

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

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Talk about your favorite sport using '수영'.

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Ask someone if they can swim.

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Ask where the swimming pool is.

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Tell someone you are going swimming tomorrow.

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Say that swimming is good for your health.

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Suggest going to the pool together.

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Explain why you like swimming.

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Tell someone to do warm-ups before swimming.

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Say you learned swimming as a child.

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Complain that the pool water is too cold.

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Ask how often someone swims.

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Tell a friend you bought a new swimsuit.

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Say you are better at freestyle than backstroke.

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Ask about the price of swimming lessons.

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Tell someone you lost your goggles.

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Express your wish to be a good swimmer.

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Say you are going to the beach for swimming.

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Advise someone not to swim in deep water.

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Say swimming is a full-body workout.

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Cheer for a swimmer.

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
listening

Identify the word: '저는 수영을 배워요.'

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
listening

Identify the location: '수영장에서 만나요.'

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
listening

Identify the object: '수영복을 챙기세요.'

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
listening

Identify the person: '그는 수영 선수입니다.'

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
listening

Identify the action: '같이 수영합시다.'

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
listening

Identify the frequency: '일주일에 세 번 수영해요.'

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
listening

Identify the time: '아침에 수영하러 가요.'

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
listening

Identify the feeling: '수영이 재미있어요.'

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
listening

Identify the gear: '수영모를 쓰세요.'

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
listening

Identify the stroke: '자유형이 제일 빨라요.'

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
listening

Identify the warning: '수영 금지 구역입니다.'

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
listening

Identify the skill: '수영 실력이 좋아요.'

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
listening

Identify the reason: '건강을 위해 수영해요.'

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
listening

Identify the partner: '친구와 수영해요.'

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
listening

Identify the season: '여름에는 수영이 최고예요.'

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :

/ 200 correct

Perfect score!

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