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B1 verb #4,000 सबसे आम 8 मिनट पढ़ने का समय

반성하다

반성하다 शीर्ष 4,000

इसका अभ्यास करें उदाहरण नोट्स और सुझाव 반성하다 30 सेकंड में

व्याख्या 반성하다 in your Level:

At the A1 level, you don't need to use '반성하다' often, but you might hear it. Think of it as a 'super-sorry.' While you learn '미안합니다' (I'm sorry) first, '반성하다' is what you say when you want to show you are thinking about why you are sorry. For example, if a teacher says '반성하세요,' they want you to think about your behavior. It's a useful word to recognize when people are talking about being good or bad. You can remember it as 'The Reflection Word.' At this level, just focus on the idea that it means looking at your own mistakes. It's like looking into a moral mirror.

पूरी व्याख्या पढ़ने के लिए मुफ़्त साइन अप करें

At the A2 level, you can start using '반성하다' in simple sentences about your daily life. For instance, if you forgot to study, you could say '공부를 안 한 것을 반성해요' (I am reflecting on not studying). This shows more maturity than just saying you're sorry. You will also see this word in basic stories or textbooks where a character does something wrong and then feels bad later. It's important to learn the noun form '반성' (reflection) too. You might hear '반성의 시간' (reflection time), which is common in schools. It helps you talk about your feelings and your plans to be better in the future.

पूरी व्याख्या पढ़ने के लिए मुफ़्त साइन अप करें

At the B1 level, '반성하다' becomes a key vocabulary word for discussing personal growth, ethics, and social issues. You should be able to distinguish it from '후회하다' (to regret). B1 learners use '반성하다' to describe the process of learning from experience. For example, '실수를 통해 반성하고 더 성장하고 싶어요' (I want to reflect through my mistakes and grow more). You will encounter this word frequently in news articles about public apologies or in essays about self-improvement. It's a standard word for intermediate-level writing and speaking, especially when discussing responsibilities or character development. You should also be comfortable with collocations like '깊이 반성하다' (to reflect deeply).

At the B2 level, you should understand the social and cultural weight of '반성하다' in Korea. It's not just a verb; it's a social expectation. You will see it used in legal contexts, such as '반성문' (reflection letters) being submitted to courts to reduce sentences. You should be able to use the word to analyze complex situations, such as '그의 사과에는 진심 어린 반성이 느껴지지 않는다' (In his apology, a sincere reflection cannot be felt). At this level, you can also use it to discuss history or national identity, such as reflecting on a nation's past actions. It’s a versatile tool for nuanced social commentary.

पूरी व्याख्या पढ़ने के लिए मुफ़्त साइन अप करें

At the C1 level, you are expected to use '반성하다' and its related forms (like '자기반성' - self-reflection) in academic or professional discourse. You will explore its nuances compared to '성찰' (introspection) and '회고' (retrospection). C1 learners should be able to discuss the philosophical implications of '반성' as a core value in Confucian-influenced societies. You might use it in a debate about restorative justice or in a literary analysis of a character's internal conflict. The word is no longer just about 'mistakes' but about the continuous process of aligning one's actions with one's values. You should be able to recognize when the word is being used performatively versus sincerely in high-level media.

पूरी व्याख्या पढ़ने के लिए मुफ़्त साइन अप करें

At the C2 level, you have a near-native grasp of '반성하다.' You understand its use in classical literature, legal precedents, and high-level political rhetoric. You can navigate the subtle differences between '반성,' '참회' (penitence), and '자성' (self-reflection/self-examination). You can produce sophisticated writing that critiques or defends the cultural practice of public '반성.' You are also sensitive to the potential for the word to be used as a tool of social pressure or 'shaming.' At this level, the word is a window into the deep-seated Korean cultural emphasis on social harmony and the constant striving for moral self-perfection.

पूरी व्याख्या पढ़ने के लिए मुफ़्त साइन अप करें

इसका अभ्यास करें उदाहरण नोट्स और सुझाव

반성하다 30 सेकंड में

반성하다 means to reflect on your mistakes and feel remorse. It is an essential part of personal growth and making a sincere apology in Korean culture.
Unlike simple regret (후회), 반성 implies a cognitive effort to understand 'why' a mistake happened and a commitment to not repeat it in the future.
It is commonly used in schools (reflection letters), legal settings (showing remorse), and daily life when evaluating one's own character and behavior.
The word is composed of Hanja meaning 'turn back' and 'examine,' highlighting its nature as a deep, analytical form of self-scrutiny.

The Korean verb 반성하다 (ban-seong-ha-da) is a profound and culturally significant term that translates to 'to reflect on one's actions,' 'to self-examine,' or 'to introspect with a sense of regret.' While English speakers might simply say 'I'm sorry' or 'I regret what I did,' 반성하다 implies a much deeper, more structured process of looking inward to identify one's moral or behavioral shortcomings. It is not merely an emotional reaction but a cognitive and ethical evaluation of oneself. In Korean society, the act of 반성 is considered a virtue and a necessary step toward personal growth and social harmony.

Core Concept: Self-Examination: At its heart, this word combines the Hanja characters 反 (반 - to return/turn back) and 省 (성 - to examine/scrutinize). Therefore, the literal meaning is to 'turn back and examine' what has passed. It is frequently used when someone has made a mistake, caused harm to others, or failed to meet their own moral standards.
Social Context: Accountability: In schools, workplaces, and even legal settings, 반성하다 is the standard term for showing that one takes responsibility. A student who breaks a rule might be asked to write a 반성문 (reflection letter). This is not just a punishment but a formal exercise in recognizing the impact of their actions.

"저는 제 잘못을 깊이 반성하고 있습니다." (I am deeply reflecting on my mistakes.)

— A common formal apology used in professional or serious personal situations.

Understanding the nuance between 'regret' (후회) and 'reflection' (반성) is crucial. While 후회하다 focuses on the feeling of wishing things were different, 반성하다 focuses on the active process of learning from the mistake so it doesn't happen again. It is a forward-looking verb disguised as a backward-looking one. When you tell a Korean friend, "반성하고 있어," you are telling them that you are working on becoming a better person.

"과거를 반성하지 않는 민족에게 미래는 없다." (There is no future for a nation that does not reflect on its past.)

— A famous historical sentiment regarding national introspection.

Daily Life Usage: You don't only use this for big crimes. You can use it when you realize you've been lazy: "오늘 하루를 반성하며 내일은 더 열심히 살기로 했다" (Reflecting on my day today, I decided to live more diligently tomorrow).

"아이에게 반성할 시간을 주었다." (I gave the child time to reflect on their behavior.)

Grammatically, 반성하다 functions as a regular active verb. It typically takes an object marked by the particles -을/를. The object is usually the action, behavior, or period of time being reflected upon. However, it can also be used intransitively when the context of what is being reflected upon is already clear.

Common Sentence Structures

[Noun] + 을/를 반성하다: Reflect on [Noun]. (e.g., 잘못을 반성하다 - reflect on a mistake)
[Verb-기] + 를 반성하다: Reflect on [doing something]. (e.g., 게을렀기를 반성하다 - reflect on being lazy)
깊이 반성하다: To reflect deeply. (Very common collocation)

One of the most important aspects of using 반성하다 is the tense and aspect. Because reflection is often an ongoing process after a mistake, you will frequently see it in the progressive form -고 있다 or the resultative form -하고 있다.

"선생님은 학생에게 자신의 행동을 반성하라고 말씀하셨다." (The teacher told the student to reflect on their actions.)

— Using the imperative/indirect command form '-하라고 하다'.

In formal writing, such as in a 반성문 (reflection paper), the language becomes quite humble. You might use honorifics even when referring to your own actions to show respect to the person you are apologizing to. For example, "진심으로 반성하고 있습니다" (I am sincerely reflecting) is much more powerful than a simple "미안합니다" (I'm sorry) in a professional setting.

"그는 과거의 무책임한 행동을 반성하며 새로운 삶을 살기 시작했다." (Reflecting on his past irresponsible behavior, he began to live a new life.)

— Using the connective '-며' to show simultaneous action/state.

It is also useful in the negative sense to criticize someone's lack of remorse. "그는 전혀 반성하는 기미가 없다" (He shows no sign of reflection/remorse) is a common way to describe someone who is being stubborn or unrepentant. This phrase is often used in news reports about criminals or politicians who refuse to admit fault.

You will encounter 반성하다 in a wide variety of contexts in Korea, ranging from the mundane to the highly formal. It is a word that permeates the educational system, the legal system, and everyday interpersonal relationships. Understanding where you hear it will help you grasp the weight it carries.

In Schools and Parenting: This is perhaps the most common place for the word. In Korea, the 'reflection letter' (반성문) is a standard disciplinary tool. If a student fights or skips class, they aren't just given detention; they are asked to write down what they did wrong and how they will improve. Parents also use the phrase "가서 반성해!" (Go reflect!) as a version of 'go to your room' or 'think about what you've done.'
In the News and Media: When a celebrity or politician is caught in a controversy (like a DUI or a scandal), their official statement almost always includes the phrase "깊이 반성하고 있습니다." The public judges the sincerity of this reflection very closely. If the '반성' is deemed insincere, the person's career might never recover.

"피고인은 자신의 범행을 진심으로 반성하고 있으므로 형량을 감경한다." (The defendant is sincerely reflecting on their crime, so the sentence is reduced.)

— A common phrase found in Korean court rulings.

In Korean dramas (K-Dramas), you'll often see scenes where a character sits alone, perhaps looking at a photo or a mirror, and the narrator or another character mentions they are in a period of 자아성찰 (self-reflection) or 반성. It’s a key trope for character development—the moment the 'bad guy' starts to turn into a 'good guy' is usually marked by a scene of deep 반성.

Finally, in self-help and religious contexts, 반성 is presented as a daily practice. Many Koreans keep a '반성 일기' (reflection diary) where they write down one thing they did well and one thing they need to reflect on each day. This highlights the word's connection to the broader concept of 성찰 (contemplation/introspection).

For English speakers, the most common pitfall is treating 반성하다 as a direct synonym for 'to regret' or 'to be sorry.' While these concepts overlap, they are not interchangeable in Korean. Using the wrong word can change the tone of your apology or statement significantly.

Mistake 1: Confusing with '후회하다' (Regret): If you say "I regret buying this expensive bag," you should use 후회하다. If you say "I am reflecting on my impulsive spending habits," you use 반성하다. 후회 is about the result (wishing it didn't happen), while 반성 is about the self-evaluation (why did I do it and how can I change?).
Mistake 2: Using it for trivial things: You wouldn't usually say "반성해요" because you accidentally dropped a pen. It's a 'heavy' word. Using it for minor accidents can sound overly dramatic or even sarcastic. Use it for matters of character, ethics, or repeated mistakes.

❌ "어제 피자를 먹은 것을 반성해요." (Incorrect for simple regret)
✅ "어제 피자를 먹은 것을 후회해요." (Correct: I regret eating pizza.)

— Unless you are on a strict diet and view eating pizza as a moral failure of your discipline, '후회' is better.

Another mistake is the grammatical placement of the object. English speakers might try to say "reflect about [something]" using a prepositional phrase. In Korean, the object of reflection must be clearly marked with the object particle -을/를. You are 'reflecting the mistake,' not 'reflecting about the mistake.'

Finally, be careful with the level of formality. Because 반성하다 is a serious word, it is most often used in polite (-해요) or formal (-합니다) endings. Using it in casual 반말 (e.g., "나 반성해") can sound a bit stiff or strange unless you are talking to yourself in a diary.

Korean has several words that touch upon the idea of reflection, regret, and looking inward. Choosing the right one depends on whether you are emphasizing the emotion, the intellectual process, or the spiritual depth of the action.

반성하다 vs. 후회하다 (Regret): As mentioned, 후회하다 is about the feeling of 'I wish I hadn't done that.' It is emotional. 반성하다 is about 'I did something wrong, I see why it was wrong, and I will change.' It is ethical and constructive.
반성하다 vs. 성찰하다 (Introspect/Contemplate): 성찰하다 (seong-chal-ha-da) is a higher-level, more academic or philosophical word. It is often used in the phrase 자아성찰 (self-reflection). While 반성 usually follows a specific mistake, 성찰 is a general practice of examining one's life and soul. It's broader and less focused on 'wrongdoing.'
반성하다 vs. 뉘우치다 (Repent/Realize one's fault): 뉘우치다 (nwi-u-chi-da) is a pure Korean (native) word that is very close to 반성하다 but feels more emotional and personal. It describes the internal 'stinging' realization that you were wrong. It is often used in literature and stories.

Word	Focus	Nuance
반성하다	Action/Ethics	Standard, formal, constructive
후회하다	Emotion/Outcome	Personal, wishing for a different past
성찰하다	Philosophy/Life	Deep, intellectual, broad
뉘우치다	Heart/Realization	Native Korean, emotional weight
자책하다	Blame	Negative self-blame, 'beating oneself up'

If you are in a situation where you want to show you are really sorry in a deep way, you might combine these: "제 잘못을 깊이 뉘우치고 반성하고 있습니다" (I am deeply repenting and reflecting on my mistake). This covers both the emotional realization and the ethical commitment to change.

How Formal Is It?

रोचक तथ्य

The character 省 (성) also appears in the word '생략' (omission), which might seem unrelated. However, in '반성,' it refers to the idea of 'thinning out' or 'reducing' one's faults through careful examination.

उच्चारण मार्गदर्शिका

UK /pan.sʌŋ.ɦa.da/

US /pɑn.sʌŋ.hɑ.dɑ/

In Korean, stress is generally even across syllables, but a slight emphasis may be placed on the first syllable '반' to distinguish it.

तुकबंदी

달성하다 (dalseonghada - to achieve) 구성하다 (guseonghada - to compose) 찬성하다 (chanseonghada - to agree) 완성하다 (wanseonghada - to complete) 형성하다 (hyeongseonghada - to form) 정성하다 (jeongseonghada - to be sincere) 육성하다 (yukseonghada - to nurture) 합성하다 (hapseonghada - to synthesize)

आम गलतियाँ

Pronouncing '반' with too much air (aspirated 'P'), making it sound like '판' (pan - board).
Making the '성' sound like '송' (song) or '상' (sang).
Dropping the 'h' in 'hada' completely, making it sound like 'ban-seong-a-da'.
Over-stressing the final 'da' syllable.
Confusing the 'eo' (ㅓ) sound in 'seong' with 'o' (ㅗ).

कठिनाई स्तर

पठन 3/5

The word itself is common, but it often appears in complex sentences or formal texts.

लिखना 4/5

Requires understanding the difference between 'regret' and 'reflection' to use correctly.

बोलना 3/5

Pronunciation is straightforward, but the cultural weight makes it tricky to time right.

श्रवण 2/5

Easily recognizable in news and dramas due to its distinct 'ban-seong' sound.

आगे क्या सीखें

पूर्वापेक्षाएँ

잘못 (Mistake) 생각하다 (To think) 미안하다 (To be sorry) 과거 (Past) 하다 (To do)

आगे सीखें

후회하다 (To regret) 성찰하다 (To introspect) 사과하다 (To apologize) 용서하다 (To forgive) 성장하다 (To grow)

उन्नत

참회 (Penitence) 자숙 (Self-restraint) 속죄 (Atonement) 자아성찰 (Self-reflection) 인과응보 (Karma/Retribution)

ज़रूरी व्याकरण

-을/를 반성하다 (Object Particle)

잘못**을** 반성하다.

-고 있다 (Progressive Aspect)

깊이 반성하**고 있습니다**.

-아서/어서 (Causative Connective)

실수를 반성**해서** 더 조심하게 되었다.

-기 (Verbal Noun)

게을렀**기**를 반성하다.

-하라고 하다 (Indirect Command)

선생님이 반성**하라고 하셨어**.

पूरी व्याख्या पढ़ने के लिए मुफ़्त साइन अप करें

स्तर के अनुसार उदाहरण

저는 잘못을 반성해요.

I reflect on my mistake.

Simple present tense with '-해요' ending.

가서 반성하세요.

Go and reflect (on what you did).

Imperative form with '-하세요'.

오늘을 반성합니다.

I reflect on today.

Formal present tense '-합니다'.

반성하고 있어요?

Are you reflecting?

Present progressive '-고 있어요'.

제 행동을 반성해요.

I reflect on my actions.

Object particle '-를' used with '행동'.

그는 반성하지 않아요.

He does not reflect.

Negative form '-지 않아요'.

반성하는 마음이 중요해요.

A reflecting heart is important.

Adjective form '-하는' modifying '마음'.

우리는 같이 반성했어요.

We reflected together.

Past tense '-했어요'.

거짓말한 것을 깊이 반성해요.

I deeply reflect on lying.

Noun clause '-한 것' (the fact that I lied).

반성문을 써야 해요.

I have to write a reflection letter.

The noun '반성문' (reflection letter).

실수를 반성하고 다시 시작해요.

Reflect on the mistake and start again.

Connective '-고' to link two actions.

어제 일을 반성하러 왔어요.

I came to reflect on what happened yesterday.

Purpose marker '-(으)러' (in order to).

친구에게 미안해서 반성했어요.

I reflected because I felt sorry to my friend.

Causative '-아서' (because).

반성하는 태도를 보여주세요.

Please show a reflective attitude.

The collocation '반성하는 태도'.

게으른 생활을 반성하고 있습니다.

I am reflecting on my lazy life.

Formal progressive '-고 있습니다'.

그 아이는 이제 반성했어요.

That child has reflected now.

Past tense indicating a completed state.

자신의 삶을 반성하는 시간은 꼭 필요합니다.

Time to reflect on one's own life is definitely necessary.

Subject marker '-은' used for general truths.

그는 자신의 잘못을 반성하기는커녕 화를 냈다.

Far from reflecting on his mistake, he got angry.

Grammar pattern '-기는커녕' (far from/let alone).

진심으로 반성한다면 용서해 줄게.

If you sincerely reflect, I will forgive you.

Conditional '-다면' for hypothetical or conditional situations.

이번 실패를 반성해서 다음에는 꼭 성공할 거예요.

I will reflect on this failure and surely succeed next time.

Future tense '-을 거예요'.

부모님께 대든 것을 밤새 반성했다.

I reflected all night on talking back to my parents.

The verb '대들다' (to talk back) turned into a noun clause.

그 배우는 자숙하며 반성하는 시간을 갖고 있다.

That actor is taking time for self-restraint and reflection.

The term '자숙' (self-restraint) often goes with '반성'.

과거의 무지함을 반성하며 공부를 시작했다.

Reflecting on past ignorance, I started studying.

Connective '-하며' for simultaneous states.

반성할 줄 모르는 사람은 발전할 수 없다.

A person who doesn't know how to reflect cannot develop.

Pattern '-(으)ㄹ 줄 모르다' (don't know how to/lack the ability to).

피고인이 깊이 반성하고 있다는 점이 참작되었습니다.

The fact that the defendant is deeply reflecting was taken into consideration.

Passive structure '참작되다' (to be considered/mitigated).

우리는 역사의 과오를 반성하고 교훈을 얻어야 한다.

We must reflect on the errors of history and learn lessons.

Formal imperative '-어야 한다' (must/should).

그의 사과문에는 반성하는 기미가 전혀 보이지 않았다.

There was no sign of reflection at all in his apology letter.

The noun '기미' (sign/trace/indication).

자기반성을 통해 더 나은 사람이 될 수 있습니다.

You can become a better person through self-reflection.

Compound noun '자기반성' (self-reflection).

그는 자신의 오만함을 반성하며 고개를 숙였다.

Reflecting on his arrogance, he bowed his head.

Abstract noun '오만함' (arrogance) as an object.

사회 전체가 이 비극에 대해 반성해야 할 때입니다.

It is time for the whole society to reflect on this tragedy.

Structure '-ㄹ 때이다' (it is time to).

반성하는 척만 하는 것은 아무 소용이 없다.

Just pretending to reflect is of no use.

Grammar '-는 척하다' (to pretend to).

그는 평생을 반성하며 속죄의 삶을 살았다.

He lived a life of atonement, reflecting his whole life.

The noun '속죄' (atonement/expiation).

철저한 자기반성 없이는 진정한 혁신이 불가능하다.

True innovation is impossible without thorough self-reflection.

Adjective '철저한' (thorough/exhaustive).

문학은 인간의 본성을 반성하게 하는 거울과 같다.

Literature is like a mirror that makes us reflect on human nature.

Causative '-게 하다' (to make/cause someone to).

그 정당은 선거 패배 후 뼈를 깎는 반성을 약속했다.

The party promised bone-chilling (extreme) reflection after the election defeat.

Idiomatic expression '뼈를 깎는' (extremely painful/thorough).

현대 사회의 물질만능주의를 반성해 볼 필요가 있다.

There is a need to reflect on the materialism of modern society.

Compound noun '물질만능주의' (materialism/money-is-everything).

그는 자신의 철학적 기반을 끊임없이 반성하고 수정했다.

He constantly reflected on and revised his philosophical foundations.

Adverb '끊임없이' (constantly/ceaselessly).

반성이라는 과정이 생략된 사과는 공허한 메아리에 불과하다.

An apology where the process of reflection is omitted is nothing more than an empty echo.

Pattern '-에 불과하다' (nothing more than/merely).

우리는 기술의 발전이 가져온 윤리적 공백을 반성해야 한다.

We must reflect on the ethical vacuum brought about by technological advancement.

Noun '공백' (vacuum/void/gap).

그의 일기는 단순한 기록을 넘어 치열한 반성의 산물이다.

His diary is a product of fierce reflection, going beyond simple records.

Expression '-를 넘어' (beyond/transcending).

인간은 반성하는 존재라는 점에서 여타 동물과 궤를 달리한다.

Humans differ from other animals in that they are reflective beings.

Idiom '궤를 달리하다' (to take a different path/be fundamentally different).

역사적 트라우마에 대한 집단적 반성은 치유의 선결 과제이다.

Collective reflection on historical trauma is a prerequisite for healing.

Noun '선결 과제' (prerequisite/priority task).

그의 사상은 동양의 전통적 반성론에 깊이 뿌리박고 있다.

His thought is deeply rooted in traditional Eastern theories of reflection.

Metaphor '뿌리박고 있다' (to be rooted in).

권력의 속성에 대한 끊임없는 반성만이 독재를 막을 수 있다.

Only constant reflection on the nature of power can prevent dictatorship.

Focus particle '-만이' (only/exclusively).

포스트모더니즘은 근대성에 대한 근원적 반성에서 출발했다.

Postmodernism started from a fundamental reflection on modernity.

Adjective '근원적' (fundamental/original).

반성적 자아와 현실적 자아 사이의 괴리는 고뇌를 낳는다.

The gap between the reflective self and the realistic self gives birth to anguish.

Noun '괴리' (gap/discrepancy/estrangement).

종교적 참회는 신 앞에서 행하는 가장 엄숙한 반성의 형태이다.

Religious penitence is the most solemn form of reflection performed before God.

Superlative '가장' with adjective '엄숙한' (solemn).

지식인의 사명은 시대의 어둠을 반성하고 빛을 제시하는 것이다.

The mission of an intellectual is to reflect on the darkness of the times and present light.

Noun '사명' (mission/calling).

सामान्य शब्द संयोजन

깊이 반성하다

잘못을 반성하다

과거를 반성하다

반성하는 태도

진심으로 반성하다

철저히 반성하다

자기반성에 빠지다

반성문을 제출하다

반성의 기미

매일 반성하다

सामान्य वाक्यांश

반성 좀 해!

— Reflect a bit! / Think about what you've done!

동생한테 그렇게 무례하게 굴었으면 반성 좀 해!

가서 반성하고 와.

— Go and reflect (and then come back).

거짓말한 거 들켰으니까 가서 반성하고 와.

반성할 기미가 없다.

— There is no sign of reflection/remorse.

그 사람은 사고를 내고도 반성할 기미가 전혀 없다.

뼈저리게 반성하다

— To reflect so deeply it's felt in one's bones.

이번 실수를 통해 뼈저리게 반성했습니다.

반성하는 의미에서...

— In the sense of reflecting... / As a sign of reflection...

반성하는 의미에서 이번 달 용돈을 깎기로 했어요.

자기반성의 시간

— Time for self-reflection.

혼자 여행을 떠나 자기반성의 시간을 가졌다.

반성문 써와.

— Write a reflection letter and bring it.

학교 규칙을 어겼으니 내일까지 반성문 써와.

깊은 반성을 촉구하다

— To urge deep reflection.

시민 단체는 정부의 깊은 반성을 촉구했다.

반성할 줄 알다

— To know how to reflect (to be a decent person).

사람이라면 자신의 잘못을 반성할 줄 알아야 한다.

반성하고 자숙하다

— To reflect and exercise self-restraint.

그 연예인은 음주운전 후 반성하고 자숙 중이다.

अक्सर इससे भ्रम होता है

반성하다 vs 후회하다

Regret focuses on the wish that something hadn't happened. Reflection focuses on the self-evaluation and change.

반성하다 vs 반사하다

Reflect (light/physics). Do not use for mental reflection.

반성하다 vs 생각하다

To think. Too general; '반성하다' is specifically about moral/behavioral thinking.

मुहावरे और अभिव्यक्तियाँ

"뼈를 깎는 반성"

— Reflection so intense it's like carving bone; extremely painful and thorough self-scrutiny.

우리 당은 뼈를 깎는 반성을 통해 다시 태어나겠습니다.

Formal/Political

"가슴을 치며 반성하다"

— To reflect while beating one's chest; showing intense and visible remorse.

그는 자신의 어리석음을 가슴을 치며 반성했다.

Literary

"거울을 보듯 반성하다"

— To reflect as if looking in a mirror; objective and honest self-examination.

자신의 내면을 거울을 보듯 반성해야 합니다.

Formal

"발 뻗고 못 자고 반성하다"

— To reflect so much you can't even sleep comfortably; feeling heavy guilt.

그날의 실수를 생각하면 발 뻗고 못 자고 반성하게 돼요.

Informal

"머리 숙여 반성하다"

— To reflect with a bowed head; showing humility and submission.

국민 앞에 머리 숙여 반성합니다.

Formal/Public

"눈물로 반성하다"

— To reflect with tears; showing deep emotional regret.

그녀는 지난날의 잘못을 눈물로 반성했다.

Literary

"손이 발이 되도록 반성하다"

— To reflect/beg so much that your hands become like feet (from constant rubbing/pleading).

그는 아내에게 손이 발이 되도록 반성하며 빌었다.

Informal/Idiomatic

"뒤를 돌아보고 반성하다"

— To look back at the path one has traveled and reflect.

가끔은 뒤를 돌아보고 반성하는 시간이 필요하다.

Neutral

"입이 열 개라도 반성하다"

— Even if one had ten mouths, one would still be reflecting/apologizing (meaning no excuse is enough).

입이 열 개라도 할 말이 없습니다. 그저 반성할 뿐입니다.

Neutral/Polite

"밤잠을 설치며 반성하다"

— To reflect while losing sleep; being kept awake by one's conscience.

부모님께 한 거짓말 때문에 밤잠을 설치며 반성했다.

Neutral

आसानी से भ्रमित होने वाले

반성하다 vs 후회하다

Both involve looking at the past with negative feelings.

후회 is emotional regret ('I wish I didn't'); 반성 is ethical evaluation ('I was wrong and will change').

돈을 낭비한 것을 후회해요 vs. 돈을 낭비한 습관을 반성해요.

반성하다 vs 성찰하다

Both mean reflection.

성찰 is more academic, philosophical, and broad. 반성 is usually about a specific mistake.

인생을 성찰하다 vs. 잘못을 반성하다.

반성하다 vs 뉘우치다

Both mean to repent or realize a fault.

뉘우치다 is a native Korean word, more emotional and literary. 반성하다 is Sino-Korean and more formal/common.

죄를 뉘우치다 vs. 잘못을 반성하다.

반성하다 vs 자책하다

Both involve thinking about one's own mistakes.

자책 is 'self-blame' and often negative/unproductive. 반성 is 'self-reflection' and usually positive/productive.

너무 자책하지 마세요 vs. 깊이 반성하고 나아가세요.

반성하다 vs 회고하다

Both mean looking back.

회고 is 'retrospection' or looking back at history/career without necessarily feeling regret or seeking change.

지난 30년의 교직 생활을 회고하다.

वाक्य संरचनाएँ

저는 [잘못]을 반성해요.

저는 실수를 반성해요.

[Noun]을/를 반성하고 있어요.

어제 일을 반성하고 있어요.

[Verb-기]를 깊이 반성합니다.

거짓말하기를 깊이 반성합니다.

[Verb-ㄴ/은 것]을 반성해요.

숙제를 안 한 것을 반성해요.

반성하는 기미가 [보이다/없다].

그는 반성하는 기미가 전혀 없어요.

반성할 시간을 [갖다/주다].

혼자 반성할 시간을 가졌어요.

[Abstract Noun]에 대한 반성이 필요하다.

현대 문명에 대한 반성이 필요하다.

[Clause]-는 것은 반성적 자아의 산물이다.

일기를 쓰는 것은 반성적 자아의 산물이다.

शब्द परिवार

संज्ञा

반성 (Reflection/Remorse)

자기반성 (Self-reflection)

반성문 (Reflection letter/apology note)

반성론 (Theory of reflection/introspection)

क्रिया

반성시키다 (To make someone reflect)

반성되다 (To be reflected upon - passive/rare)

विशेषण

반성적 (Reflective/Introspective)

इसे कैसे इस्तेमाल करें

frequency

High, especially in educational, legal, and self-improvement contexts.

सामान्य गलतियाँ

Using '반성하다' for light accidents (e.g., dropping a cup). → 실수했어요 (I made a mistake) or 미안해요 (I'm sorry).
'반성하다' is for moral, ethical, or behavioral issues, not physical clumsiness.
Saying '후회해요' when you mean you are taking responsibility. → 반성해요.
'후회' is just feeling bad about the past; '반성' is the active process of taking responsibility.
Using '반성하다' to mean light reflection in a mirror. → 반사하다.
'반성' is mental; '반사' is physical reflection of light or sound.
Forgetting the object particle -을/를. → 잘못을 반성하다.
In Korean, you reflect the mistake directly as an object.
Telling a boss '반성하세요'. → None (don't say this to a boss).
Telling a superior to reflect is extremely rude and condescending.

सुझाव

Use with Adverbs

Always pair '반성하다' with adverbs like '깊이' (deeply), '진심으로' (sincerely), or '철저히' (thoroughly) to sound more natural and sincere in Korean.

The Power of the Reflection Letter

If you ever make a big mistake in a Korean organization, offering to write a '반성문' (reflection letter) can sometimes be more effective than a verbal apology.

Don't Forget the Object

Remember that you reflect 'something.' Always use the '-을/를' particle with the mistake or behavior you are reflecting on.

Regret vs. Reflection

If you feel bad about the *result*, use '후회하다'. If you feel bad about your *character/action*, use '반성하다'.

Tone Matters

When you say you are reflecting, use a lower, steady tone. A high or fast tone might make the '반성' seem insincere.

Diary Practice

Ending your day with a '반성' sentence in your journal is a great way to practice both the word and the cultural habit of self-improvement.

Learn the Hanja

Knowing that '반' means 'back' and '성' means 'examine' will help you remember this word forever and help with related words like '성찰'.

Professional Apologies

In a work email, '반성하고 있으며 재발 방지에 힘쓰겠습니다' (I am reflecting and will work to prevent recurrence) is the gold standard for apologizing for a mistake.

Accepting an Apology

If someone says they are '반성' doing something, it is a strong signal that they want to fix the relationship. It's often the cue to offer forgiveness.

No 'About'

English speakers often say 'reflect *about* my mistake.' In Korean, skip the 'about' (대해) and just say 'mistake-를 reflect'.

याद करें

स्मृति सहायक

Think of a 'BAN' (ban) on 'SUNG' (seong) glasses. You take off your sunglasses to look back (반) and clearly see/examine (성) what you did wrong.

दृश्य संबंध

Imagine a person looking into a mirror, but instead of seeing their face, they see a video of their actions from yesterday playing back.

Word Web

Mirror Mistake Sorry Growth Diary Hanja: 反 (Back) Hanja: 省 (Examine) Responsibility

चैलेंज

Try to write three things you want to '반성하다' about this week in a journal. Use the phrase '...을/를 반성합니다' for each one.

शब्द की उत्पत्ति

Derived from Sino-Korean (Hanja) roots. The word has been used in Korea for centuries, heavily influenced by Confucian ethics which emphasize constant self-improvement through introspection.

मूल अर्थ: 反 (반) means 'to turn back' or 'return,' and 省 (성) means 'to examine,' 'to look into,' or 'to be frugal.' Together, they mean 'to look back and examine oneself.'

Sino-Korean (Hanja: 反省하다)

सांस्कृतिक संदर्भ

Be careful when telling someone to '반성해' (Reflect!). It can be very patronizing or insulting if used toward an equal or a superior, as it implies they have failed morally.

In Western cultures, 'reflection' is often a private, meditative act. In Korea, '반성' is frequently a public or social requirement to prove one's sincerity.

The 'Reflection Letter' (반성문) trope in almost every school-themed K-Drama (e.g., 'School 2013'). Famous poem 'Self-Portrait' (자화상) by Yun Dong-ju, which is a masterpiece of '반성' during the Japanese occupation. Public apology press conferences by CEOs of companies like Samsung or Korean Air.

असल ज़िंदगी में अभ्यास करें

वास्तविक संदर्भ

After a fight with a partner

내가 너무 이기적이었던 걸 반성해.
우리 관계를 다시 반성해 보자.
반성하고 사과할게.
진심으로 반성하고 있어.

At school or work after a mistake

실수를 반복하지 않도록 반성하겠습니다.
반성문을 작성했습니다.
제 태도를 반성하고 있습니다.
깊은 반성의 시간을 가졌습니다.

In a personal diary

오늘 하루를 반성하며...
나의 부족함을 반성한다.
내일은 반성한 대로 살아야지.
끊임없이 반성하는 삶을 살고 싶다.

When criticizing someone else

너는 반성이라는 걸 모르니?
반성하는 기미가 전혀 없네.
좀 반성하고 살아라.
그 사람은 반성할 줄 모르는 사람이야.

Legal or formal apology

사회적 물의를 일으켜 반성합니다.
피고인은 범행을 반성 중입니다.
반성하는 태도가 참작되었습니다.
깊이 반성하며 고개를 숙입니다.

बातचीत की शुरुआत

"어제 제가 한 말에 대해 밤새 반성했어요. 정말 미안해요."

"혹시 살면서 가장 크게 반성했던 순간이 언제예요?"

"저는 매일 밤 잠들기 전에 하루를 반성하는 습관이 있어요."

"그 영화를 보고 제 삶을 정말 많이 반성하게 됐어요."

"아이들이 잘못했을 때 어떻게 반성하게 만드나요?"

डायरी विषय

오늘 내가 한 말이나 행동 중에서 가장 반성해야 할 점은 무엇인가요? (What is the one thing I should reflect on most from today's actions or words?)

1년 전의 나와 지금의 나를 비교하며 반성할 점을 적어보세요. (Compare yourself from a year ago to now and write down points for reflection.)

내가 누군가에게 상처를 주었을 때, 어떻게 반성하고 사과했는지 기록해 보세요. (Record how you reflected and apologized when you hurt someone.)

사회적으로 반성이 필요한 이슈가 있다면 무엇이라고 생각하나요? (What social issues do you think require collective reflection?)

반성하는 삶이 왜 중요한지 자신의 생각을 정리해 보세요. (Organize your thoughts on why a reflective life is important.)

अक्सर पूछे जाने वाले सवाल

10 सवाल

Yes, but only if you want to sound very serious or if you are late often and want to show you are thinking about your habit. For a one-time minor lateness, just say '늦어서 죄송합니다' (I'm sorry for being late).

While common in schools, '반성문' (reflection letters) are also used in adult contexts, such as in legal proceedings or sometimes in companies after a major error. It is a formal way to document one's remorse.

'반성' is the general noun for reflection. '자기반성' (self-reflection) emphasizes that the reflection is directed inward at one's own self. They are often interchangeable.

You can say '나 반성 중이야' (I'm reflecting) or '나 반성하고 있어.' It shows you are taking their feelings or your mistake seriously.

Mostly, yes. It is almost always triggered by a mistake, a failure, or a negative behavior. For general thinking about life, '성찰하다' or '생각하다' is better.

Yes. A company can issue a statement saying they are '반성' about a product defect or a social controversy. It shows corporate responsibility.

It can be very rude if the person is your senior or an equal. It sounds like you are judging them and telling them they are morally wrong. It is usually used by people in authority (teachers, parents, bosses) or in a very serious argument.

It means 'reflective thinking.' It's a term used in education and psychology to describe the process of analyzing one's own thoughts and learning processes.

While '반성' is secular, it is highly valued in Buddhist and Confucian traditions in Korea. For specific Christian 'repentance,' the word '회개' is more common.

In variety shows, people use it jokingly (e.g., 'Reflect on your bad joke!'). But in real life, it's usually reserved for things that actually matter.

सुझाव और नोट्स के लिए मुफ़्त साइन अप करें