Grammar Rule in 30 Seconds
Use '부터' to mark the starting point of time or sequence, like saying 'from' in English.
- Attach directly to nouns: '3시부터' (from 3 o'clock).
- Use for time: '오늘부터' (from today).
- Use for order: '첫 번째부터' (from the first one).
Noun + 부터 + [Action/Event]
Overview
Korean, an agglutinative language, relies heavily on particles—grammatical suffixes that attach to nouns, pronouns, and sometimes other word types—to articulate a word’s function within a sentence. These particles are indispensable for conveying precise meaning, often translating to prepositions or postpositions in English. The particle
부터 (pronounced: bu-teo) fundamentally signifies a starting point, marking the inception of an action, state, or duration, akin to the English from or since. Mastery of 부터 is crucial for constructing clear expressions of timelines, sequences, and the initiation of events in Korean.While English employs
from for both temporal (from 9 AM) and spatial (from London) origins, Korean meticulously distinguishes these. 부터 is predominantly dedicated to indicating temporal and sequential beginnings, offering a clear boundary for when a process, period, or sequence commences. This specificity is a hallmark of Korean grammar, guiding you to construct sentences that are unambiguous about timing and order.Its consistent application makes it an accessible particle, even for learners at the A1 CEFR level.
How This Grammar Works
부터 operates as a post-positional particle, meaning it invariably follows the noun or nominalized phrase it modifies. Its primary function is to establish an origin point for an action or state that progresses forward in time or through a defined sequence. Essentially, 부터 tells you *when* something began or *which item* initiated a series.This function directly contrasts with particles such as
에 (which marks a simple point in time) or 에서 (which denotes the origin of physical movement). When you utilize 부터, you are not merely stating a time; you are emphasizing that this specific time or item serves as the genesis of whatever unfolds thereafter. This distinction is subtle yet critical for precise communication.Consider saying
I eat at 7 PM(
7시에 먹어요.), where 에 marks a single point. In contrast, I eat *from* 7 PM(
7시부터 먹어요.) uses 부터 to indicate that 7 PM is the moment eating commences and potentially continues. 부터 maintains a neutral tone; politeness is exclusively determined by the verb conjugation at the sentence's conclusion.
Formation Pattern
1
The formation of
부터 is exceptionally straightforward, making it one of the most accessible Korean particles for beginners. It attaches directly to the end of a noun without necessitating any phonetic alterations or considering the noun's final consonant or vowel. This unwavering consistency simplifies application by removing complexities often found in other Korean grammatical elements requiring conjugation or specific ending considerations.
2
Key Rule: Append
부터 directly to the target noun.
3
Crucial Detail: There must be no space between the noun and
부터. Korean particles are suffixes, an integral part of the word they modify. Inserting a space creates a grammatical error, similar to writing tomorrow from in English, which sounds unnatural. This direct attachment reinforces that particles function as bound morphemes, inextricably linked to their preceding word.
4
Here’s a table illustrating the formation:
5
| Noun | Korean | Romanization | +
부터 | Combined Form | Romanization | Meaning |
6
| :----------- | :--------- | :------------ | :------- | :------------- | :-------------- | :----------------------------- |
7
| now |
지금 | jigeum | 부터 | 지금부터 | jigeumbuteo | from now / starting now |
8
| tomorrow |
내일 | naeil | 부터 | 내일부터 | naeilbuteo | from tomorrow |
9
| morning |
아침 | achim | 부터 | 아침부터 | achimbuteo | from morning / since morning |
10
| Monday |
월요일 | wollyoil | 부터 | 월요일부터 | wollyoilbuteo | from Monday |
11
| 1 o'clock |
1시 | hanshi | 부터 | 1시부터 | hanshibuteo | from 1 o'clock |
12
| Episode 1 |
1화 | ilhwa | 부터 | 1화부터 | ilhwabuteo | from Episode 1 |
13
| here |
여기 | yeogi | 부터 | 여기부터 | yeogibuteo | from here (in sequence/range) |
14
For example, to convey
from now, you take the noun 지금 (now) and directly attach 부터, forming 지금부터. This seamless connection is why particles are often considered functionally part of the word they modify rather than standalone words.
When To Use It
부터 is utilized in several distinct contexts, all fundamentally anchored to the concept of a starting point. While most commonly associated with time, its application extends to sequential ordering and, in specific instances, to emphasize the initiator of an action. Grasping these nuanced uses is essential for deploying 부터 both effectively and accurately in diverse communicative situations.- 1To Mark a Temporal Starting Point (Most Common Use)
This is the most frequent and intuitive application of
부터. It designates the precise moment, day, or period when an action, state, or event commences and subsequently continues. This can include specific clock times, dates, days of the week, or broader temporal spans.- Specific Times: When an activity begins at an exact hour or minute and proceeds.
저녁 6시부터는 개인 시간이에요.(Formal: From 6 PM, it's personal time.)저녁 6시부터는 개인 시간이야.(Casual: From 6 PM, it's personal time.)- Romanization:
jeonyeok yeoseot-shi-buteo-neun gaein shigan-ieyo./jeonyeok yeoseot-shi-buteo-neun gaein shigan-iya. - Days, Dates, and Weeks: Indicating the day or date from which something is valid or ongoing. This is common in announcements or planning.
다음 주 월요일부터는 수업이 시작될 예정이에요.(Formal: Classes are scheduled to start from next Monday.)다음 주 월요일부터는 수업 시작될 거야.(Casual: Classes will start from next Monday.)- Romanization:
daeum ju wollyoil-buteo-neun sueob-i sijak-doel yejeong-ieyo./daeum ju wollyoil-buteo-neun sueob sijak-doel geo-ya. - Periods/Events: Marking the beginning of a specific duration or an event that has continued. In such cases,
부터often functions likesincein English. 저는 어제부터 몸이 안 좋아요.(Formal: I haven't been feeling well since yesterday.)나 어제부터 몸이 안 좋아.(Casual: I haven't been feeling well since yesterday.)- Romanization:
jeo-neun eoje-buteo mom-i an joayo./na eoje-buteo mom-i an joa.
- 1To Mark a Sequential Starting Point / First in a Series
부터 is also used to indicate the initial item within a list, series, or a defined physical range. This is particularly prevalent when establishing an order or a span from A to B.While frequently paired with
까지 (until/to), it can stand alone if the continuation is implied or understood within context.- Numerical/Item Sequence: When referring to chapters, episodes, or steps that must be followed in order.
이 책은 1과부터 5과까지만 공부하면 돼요.(Formal: For this book, you only need to study from Chapter 1 to Chapter 5.)이 책은 1과부터 5과까지만 공부하면 돼.(Casual: For this book, you only need to study from Chapter 1 to Chapter 5.)- Romanization:
i chaek-eun il-gwa-buteo o-gwa-kkaji-man gongbu-hamyeon dwaeyo./i chaek-eun il-gwa-buteo o-gwa-kkaji-man gongbu-hamyeon dwae. - Physical Range: Defining the start of a journey or a physical path. This use always implies a corresponding end point, even if unstated.
여기부터 걸어갈 수 있어요.(Formal: You can walk from here [onward].)여기부터 걸어갈 수 있어.(Casual: You can walk from here [onward].)- Romanization:
yeogi-buteo georeogal su isseoyo./yeogi-buteo georeogal su isseo. - Initiator in a Group: When specifying who initiates an action or takes the first turn in a group, emphasizing that individual as the first in sequence. This is common in turn-taking scenarios.
제가 먼저 발표부터 하겠습니다.(Formal: I will start by presenting first.)내가 먼저 발표부터 할게.(Casual: I will start by presenting first.)- Romanization:
je-ga meonjeo balpyo-buteo hagetseumnida./nae-ga meonjeo balpyo-buteo halge.
- 1For Emphasis on Initiation (More Advanced Nuance)
In certain contexts,
부터 can add a layer of emphasis, highlighting that the specified noun is not merely *when* something starts, but is the very source or origin of an impulse or condition. This differs from a simple temporal marker; it imbues the starting point with greater significance, often suggesting an intensity or persistence of the subsequent state.어제부터 아기가 계속 울어서 잠을 못 잤어요.(Formal: The baby has been crying since yesterday, so I couldn't sleep.)어제부터 아기가 계속 울어서 잠 못 잤어.(Casual: The baby has been crying since yesterday, so I couldn't sleep.)- Romanization:
eoje-buteo agi-ga gyesok ureoseo jam-eul mot jasseoyo./eoje-buteo agi-ga gyesok ureoseo jam mot jasseo.
Here,
어제부터 conveys more than just since yesterday; it strongly implies the continuous nature and intensity of the baby's crying, which *began* yesterday.
When Not To Use It
Although
부터 is versatile for indicating starting points, it is critical to understand its limitations and avoid misapplication where other particles are grammatically appropriate. Incorrect usage can lead to sentences that sound unnatural or even convey unintended meanings. Misapplying 부터 often stems from a direct translation approach from English, where from covers a broader range of meanings.- 1For the Origin of a Physical Movement/Departure: Do not use
부터to express coming *from* a physical location in the sense of departure or a person's place of origin. For this purpose, the particle에서(eseo) is the correct and natural choice.부터in this context would imply a measurement or sequential progression *from* that point, rather than simple origin.
- Correct:
저는 부산에서 왔어요.(Formal: I came from Busan.) - Correct:
나 부산에서 왔어.(Casual: I came from Busan.) - Romanization:
jeo-neun Busan-eseo wasseoyo./na Busan-eseo wasseo. - Incorrect:
저는 부산부터 왔어요.(This would unnaturally implyI came *starting from* Busan,
as if Busan was the first leg of a journey.)
- 1For Receiving Something From a Person: When stating that you received something *from* a person,
부터is inappropriate. Instead, use한테서(hanteseo) for informal contexts or에게서(egeseo) for more formal or written contexts. These particles specifically denote the human source of an action or item.
- Correct:
저는 친구한테서 이메일을 받았어요.(Formal: I received an email from my friend.) - Correct:
나 친구한테서 이메일 받았어.(Casual: I received an email from my friend.) - Romanization:
jeo-neun chingu-hanteseo imeil-eul badasseoyo./na chingu-hanteseo imeil badasseo. - Incorrect:
저는 친구부터 이메일을 받았어요.(This impliesI received an email *starting from* my friend,
suggesting your friend was the first in a series of senders, which is rarely the intended meaning.)
- 1For a General Location Marker:
부터inherently implies a starting point from which something proceeds. It is not used to simply state an action occurring *at* a static location. For general actions at a place,에서is the correct particle.
- Correct:
도서관에서 공부했어요.(Formal: I studied at the library.) - Correct:
도서관에서 공부했어.(Casual: I studied at the library.) - Romanization:
doseogwan-eseo gongbu-haesseoyo./doseogwan-eseo gongbu-haesseo. - Incorrect:
도서관부터 공부했어요.(This impliesI studied *starting from* the library,
which is grammatically awkward unless one means the library was the first place in a sequence of study locations.)
- 1When a Simple Point in Time is Sufficient: If your intention is merely to state *when* an event occurs without emphasizing its initiation or duration,
에is the more natural particle to use.부터highlights the beginning of a span, whereas에pinpoints a moment. For a singular, non-extended event,에is often preferred for conciseness and naturalness.
- Correct:
회의는 10시에 시작해요.(Formal: The meeting starts at 10 o'clock.) - Correct:
회의는 10시에 시작해.(Casual: The meeting starts at 10 o'clock.) - Romanization:
hoeui-neun yeol-shi-e sijak-haeyo./hoeui-neun yeol-shi-e sijak-hae. - Less Natural (depends on context):
회의는 10시부터 시작해요.(While not strictly incorrect, this implies the meeting starts at 10 and *continues* from then. If the meeting has a clear duration and ending,에is often more precise for just the start time.)
Understanding these distinctions allows you to navigate common grammatical pitfalls and express yourself more naturally and precisely in Korean. Always consider the nuance: are you marking a simple point, or defining a definitive starting point from which something proceeds or endures?
Common Mistakes
Despite its straightforward formation, learners frequently make specific errors when using
부터. These mistakes typically arise from over-generalizing its meaning, misinterpreting its function compared to other particles, or overlooking fundamental orthographic rules. Recognizing and addressing these patterns is key to fluent and accurate usage.- 1Incorrect Spacing: This is perhaps the most prevalent error for beginners. They often insert a space between the noun and
부터.
- Mistake:
지금 부터(jigeum bu-teo) - Why it's wrong: Korean particles are enclitics, meaning they attach directly to the preceding word without a space. They are not independent words. Think of it like the English possessive
's; you write "John's book,notJohn 's book." The direct attachment is a fundamental rule of Korean orthography for particles. - Correction:
지금부터(jigeumbuteo)
- 1Confusing
부터with에서for Physical Origin: As detailed in theWhen Not To Use It
section,부터denotes temporal or sequential starting points, while에서marks the origin of physical movement from a location. This confusion often arises from the shared English translation offrom.
- Mistake:
저는 학교부터 왔어요.(jeo-neun hakgyo-buteo wasseoyo) – Intended to meanI came from school.
- Why it's wrong: This phrase would literally imply
I came *starting from* school,
suggesting that school was the first point in a traversed path, rather than simply stating one's place of departure. For direct physical origin,에서is indispensable. - Correction:
저는 학교에서 왔어요.(jeo-neun hakgyo-eseo wasseoyo) –I came from school.
- 1Using
부터for Receiving from a Person: Learners sometimes attempt to directly translatefrom [person]using부터.
- Mistake:
선생님부터 숙제를 받았어요.(seonsaengnim-buteo sukje-reul badasseoyo) – Intended to meanI received homework from the teacher.
- Why it's wrong:
부터designates a starting point in time or sequence, not the human source of an item or action. For personal sources,한테서(informal) or에게서(formal) are the correct particles. This mistake highlights the danger of direct word-for-word translation without understanding particle functions. - Correction:
선생님한테서 숙제를 받았어요.(seonsaengnim-hanteseo sukje-reul badasseoyo) –I received homework from the teacher.
- 1Over-using
부터when에is more appropriate: If the intention is merely to state that an event happens *at* a particular time,에is generally more natural unless you specifically want to emphasize the commencement of a duration or a continuous state from that point.
- Mistake:
수업은 9시부터 시작해요.(sueob-eun ahop-shi-buteo sijak-haeyo) – Used for a class that simply starts at 9 AM and has a fixed duration. - Why it's wrong: While not grammatically incorrect, using
부터here adds a nuance of the class continuing *from* 9 AM. If it's a typical class with a defined end,에is more precise for simply marking the starting moment. Using부터might imply an open-ended schedule from 9 AM, which could be misleading. A native speaker would likely use에for a simple start time. - Correction:
수업은 9시에 시작해요.(sueob-eun ahop-shi-e sijak-haeyo) – "Class starts at 9 o'clock."
By diligently avoiding these common pitfalls, you can significantly enhance your accuracy and naturalness when using
부터, differentiating it effectively from other related Korean particles.Common Collocations
Certain phrases frequently incorporate
부터, forming natural and idiomatic expressions that are integral to everyday Korean communication. Familiarity with these collocations will significantly improve your comprehension and enable more natural, spontaneous Korean output. These phrases often appear in casual conversation, social media, and informal writing, reflecting real-world usage.지금부터(jigeumbuteo): From now / Starting now여러분, 지금부터 회의를 시작하겠습니다.(Formal: Everyone, I will start the meeting from now.)얘들아, 지금부터 회의 시작할게.(Casual: Guys, I'll start the meeting from now.)- This is a ubiquitous phrase used to announce the commencement of any activity.
언제부터(eonjebuteo): From when / Since when선생님은 언제부터 한국어를 가르치셨어요?(Formal: Since when have you taught Korean, Teacher?)너 언제부터 한국어 가르쳤어?(Casual: Since when have you taught Korean?)- Used to inquire about the starting point of an action or state that has continued up to the present.
처음부터(cheoeumbuteo): From the beginning / From the start이 프로젝트는 처음부터 다시 계획해야 해요.(Formal: We need to plan this project again from the beginning.)이 프로젝트 처음부터 다시 계획해야 해.(Casual: We need to plan this project again from the beginning.)- Indicates the absolute initiation of a process, narrative, or event.
내일부터(naeilbuteo): From tomorrow저는 내일부터 운동을 시작할 거예요.(Formal: I will start exercising from tomorrow.)
나 내일부터 운동 시작할 거야. (Casual: I will start exercising from tomorrow.)- A classic phrase often used for new commitments or plans, especially those related to self-improvement.
월요일부터(wollyoilbuteo): From Monday우리 가게는 월요일부터 금요일까지 영업합니다.(Formal: Our store operates from Monday to Friday.)우리 가게 월요일부터 금요일까지 영업해.(Casual: Our store operates from Monday to Friday.)- Similar to
내일부터, but specifies a particular day of the week as the start.
아침부터(achimbuteo): From morning / Since morning아침부터 바빠서 점심을 못 먹었어요.(Formal: I was busy since morning, so I couldn't eat lunch.)아침부터 바빠서 점심 못 먹었어.(Casual: I was busy since morning, so I couldn't eat lunch.)- Often used to describe a state or activity that began early in the day and persisted.
어제부터(eojebuteo): Since yesterday / From yesterday어제부터 계속 기침을 하고 있어요.(Formal: I've been coughing continuously since yesterday.)어제부터 계속 기침하고 있어.(Casual: I've been coughing continuously since yesterday.)- Indicates the commencement of a condition or state in the recent past that is ongoing.
1화부터(ilhwa-buteo): From Episode 1이 웹툰은 1화부터 봐야 이해할 수 있어요.(Formal: You can only understand this webtoon if you watch/read it from Episode 1.)이 웹툰 1화부터 봐야 이해할 수 있어.(Casual: You can only understand this webtoon if you watch/read it from Episode 1.)- Common in discussions of serialized content such as television dramas, webtoons, or books.
여기부터 저기까지(yeogibuteo jeogikkaji): From here to there여기부터 저기까지 걸어서 10분 정도 걸려요.(Formal: It takes about 10 minutes to walk from here to there.)여기부터 저기까지 걸어서 10분 정도 걸려.(Casual: It takes about 10 minutes to walk from here to there.)- Used for defining a spatial or conceptual range, almost invariably paired with
까지.
나부터 / 저부터(na-buteo / jeo-buteo): Starting with me / I'll go first질문 있으세요? 그럼 저부터 질문하겠습니다.(Formal: Do you have questions? Then I will ask first.)질문 있어? 그럼 나부터 질문할게.(Casual: Do you have questions? Then I will ask first.)- Used when taking the initiative or proposing oneself as the first to act in a group setting. This is a common phrase in meetings or group activities.
These collocations highlight
부터's versatility and its natural integration into various expressions. Recognizing these will help you identify 부터's role in context and use it more spontaneously.Contrast With Similar Patterns
Korean features several particles that may appear to overlap in meaning with
부터, particularly due to broad English translations. However, each particle possesses distinct functions and contextual applications. A thorough understanding of these differences is critical for achieving grammatical precision and avoiding ambiguity.The most frequently confused particles are
에서, 에, and (으)로부터.- 1
부터vs.에서(eseo)
This distinction is perhaps the most significant challenge for many learners. Both can translate to
from in English, but their roles in Korean are fundamentally different. The core linguistic principle here is that 부터 marks an initial boundary for duration or sequence, whereas 에서 marks a physical location of origin or action.부터: Marks the starting point of an action or duration, primarily temporal or sequential. It implies a progression *from* that point forward.오후 1시부터 식사했어요.(Formal: I ate from 1 PM.) – Focus on the time when eating commenced and continued.이번 주부터 운동을 시작할 거예요.(Formal: I will start exercising from this week.) – Focus on the week as the starting time for an ongoing activity.에서: Marks the origin of a physical movement or departure from a location. Crucially, it also functions as a general location particle indicating *where* an action takes place (theplace of actionparticle).저는 서울에서 왔습니다.(Formal: I came from Seoul.) – Focus on Seoul as the physical place of origin.은행에서 돈을 찾았어요.(Formal: I withdrew money at the bank.) – Focus on the bank as the location where the action happened.
To clarify, consider this direct comparison:
| Context |
부터 Usage | 에서 Usage || :---------------------- | :-------------------------------------------------- | :------------------------------------------------ |
| Temporal Origin |
월요일부터 수업이 있어요. (There is class from Monday.) | (❌ Not used for temporal origin) || Physical Origin | (Rare; only for ranges:
서울부터 부산까지) | 서울에서 왔습니다. (I came from Seoul.) || Sequential Start |
여기부터 줄을 서세요. (Please queue from here.) | (❌ Not used for sequential start) || Location of Action | (❌ Not used for location of action) |
카페에서 커피를 마셔요. (I drink coffee at the cafe.) |Key Takeaway: If you are identifying *when* something starts or *which item* initiates a series,
부터 is the correct choice. If you are indicating *where* something physically originates or *where* an action occurs, use 에서.- 1
부터vs.에(e)
Both
부터 and 에 relate to time, but their roles are fundamentally distinct. The primary difference lies in whether you are marking a specific, discrete point in time or the beginning of a continuous duration.부터: Marks the beginning of a duration or an ongoing state. The action or state commences at this point and is implied to continue.저는 8시부터 공부할 거예요.(Formal: I will study from 8 o'clock [and continue].)8시부터 공부할 거야.(Casual: I will study from 8 o'clock [and continue].)에: Marks a specific, precise point in time when an event occurs. It does not inherently imply continuation beyond that exact moment.우리는 8시에 만나요.(Formal: We meet at 8 o'clock.) – A single, defined meeting time.우리 8시에 만나.(Casual: We meet at 8 o'clock.)
Example Contrast: Imagine a meeting.
회의는 10시에 시작해요. (Formal: The meeting starts *at* 10 o'clock.) describes a discrete event beginning. In contrast, 회의는 10시부터 시작해요. (Formal: The meeting starts *from* 10 o'clock.) implies the meeting commences at 10 AM and continues *from* that point forward, often suggesting a duration or an open-ended period.The nuance lies in whether you are pinpointing a moment (
에) or defining the start of an extended period (부터). Choose 에 for a specific, singular time point; choose 부터 when emphasizing the commencement of a continuous event or state.- 1
부터vs.(으)로부터((eu)ro-buteo)
(으)로부터 is a more formal, and often literary or official, alternative that also translates to from or by. While it shares some semantic space with 부터 and 에게서, it typically carries connotations of a formal source, origin of information, or a dignified point of commencement, particularly for non-physical or abstract entities.부터: Common, versatile, used for temporal and sequential starting points in everyday language.저 다음 주부터 새 직장에서 일해요.(Formal: I work at a new company from next week.)(으)로부터: More formal, often reserved for written language or official contexts. It commonly refers to the source of abstract concepts (e.g., information, power, a message, a threat) or formal beginnings from institutions or authoritative figures. It can replace에게서or한테서in very formal settings when referring to a source from a person.정부로부터 공식 발표가 있었습니다.(Formal: There was an official announcement from the government.) –(으)로부터is used for the formal source of information.선생님으로부터 귀한 조언을 얻었습니다.(Formal: I received valuable advice from the teacher.) – Here, it replaces에게서for added formality.
Key Takeaway: In daily conversation,
부터 is almost invariably preferred for time and sequence. Reserve (으)로부터 for more formal or literary expressions, especially when the source is institutional, abstract, or when a higher degree of formality is desired.By carefully examining the specific function and contextual nuance of each particle, you can effectively avoid common grammatical errors and communicate with enhanced clarity and precision in Korean.
Quick FAQ
This section addresses some frequently asked questions about the particle
부터, aiming to clarify common areas of confusion and reinforce key principles for learners.Q1: Can
부터 be used alone, without 까지 (kkaji, 'until/to')?Absolutely. While 부터 (from) and 까지 (to/until) frequently appear together to define a complete range (A부터 B까지,
from A to B),
부터 very often stands alone. When used by itself, it indicates a starting point from which an action or state begins and *continues indefinitely* or until another implicit, unstated stopping point. For instance, 저는 3시부터 도서관에 있을 거예요. (Formal: I will be at the library from 3 o'clock.) clearly states the beginning without needing to specify an end, implying continuation.
Q2: Is
부터 used for physical distance or origin, like from Seoul to Busan?
Yes, 부터 is used for physical distance when defining a range, and in this context, it is almost always paired with 까지. For example, 서울부터 부산까지 KTX를 타고 갔어요. (Formal: I took the KTX from Seoul to Busan.) Here, 부터 precisely marks the starting point of the journey. However, for simply stating a place of origin, such as
I came from Seoul,
에서 (서울에서 왔어요.) remains the correct and more natural particle. The distinction is between a defined route (from-to) versus a simple point of departure.
Q3: Does
부터 translate to since in English?Yes, very often it does. When 부터 is affixed to a past time word to indicate an ongoing state or action, it naturally translates to since in English. For example, 저는 작년부터 한국어를 공부하고 있어요. (Formal: I have been studying Korean since last year.) In such contexts, 부터 perfectly encapsulates the meaning of since by marking the initial point of a continuous action that began in the past and extends to the present moment. This is a common and accurate translation.
Q4: What about getting something
from a person? Should I use 부터?No, for indicating that you received something *from* a person, you should explicitly use 한테서 (hanteseo) for informal or general situations, or 에게서 (egeseo) for more formal or written contexts. 부터 is fundamentally unsuitable for denoting the source of a received item or action from an individual. For example, 저는 어머니에게서 선물을 받았습니다. (Formal: I received a gift from my mother.) This usage directly and correctly identifies the human giver.
Q5: Can
부터 be used with verbs?부터 is exclusively a particle that attaches to nouns. To functionally use a verb as a starting point, you must first nominalize the verb, effectively transforming it into a noun form. While this is possible in Korean, it typically involves more complex grammatical patterns such as -(으)ㄴ 지부터 (which denotes a duration since an action occurred) or -(으)면서부터 (which indicates something started as an action was occurring). These are generally considered beyond the A1 CEFR level. At your current stage, focus on attaching 부터 to clear nouns, particularly temporal nouns, for correct and effective usage.
Formation with Nouns
| Noun Type | Example | Result |
|---|---|---|
|
Time
|
3시
|
3시부터
|
|
Date
|
오늘
|
오늘부터
|
|
Order
|
첫 번째
|
첫 번째부터
|
|
Object
|
이것
|
이것부터
|
|
Abstract
|
처음
|
처음부터
|
|
Person
|
나
|
나부터
|
Meanings
The particle '부터' indicates the starting point of a time, sequence, or event.
1
Temporal Start
Starting time of an action.
“아침부터 비가 와요.”
“9시부터 수업이 있어요.”
2
Sequential Start
Starting point in a list or order.
“이것부터 먹어보세요.”
“1번부터 읽으세요.”
Reference Table
| カテゴリー | 名詞 | くっつけた形 | 意味 |
|---|---|---|---|
|
時間
|
내일 (明日)
|
내일부터
|
明日から
|
|
時間
|
아침 (朝)
|
아침부터
|
朝から
|
|
時間
|
1시 (1時)
|
1시부터
|
1時から
|
|
順番
|
처음 (最初)
|
처음부터
|
最初から
|
|
場所（範囲）
|
여기 (ここ)
|
여기부터
|
ここから（ここを起点に）
|
|
質問
|
언제 (いつ)
|
언제부터
|
いつから
|
フォーマル度スペクトル
フォーマル
3시부터 시작합시다.
3시부터 시작합시다. (Scheduling a meeting)
ニュートラル
3시부터 시작해요.
3시부터 시작해요. (Scheduling a meeting)
カジュアル
3시부터 시작해.
3시부터 시작해. (Scheduling a meeting)
スラング
3시부터 고?
3시부터 고? (Scheduling a meeting)
「부터」のタイムライン
タイムライン
開始点
- 내일 明日
- 부터 から (Start)
継続
- >>>> 進行中のアクション
終了点 (任意)
- 모레 明後日
- 까지 まで
場所 vs 時間
時間 (いつ？)
부터
から (開始時間)
2시부터
2時から
場所 (どこで？)
에서
から (出発点)
집에서
家から
どっちの「から」を使う？
1
「今日」や「2時」などの時間ですか？
YES
부터 を使う
NO
次をチェック
2
順番やシーケンスですか？ (君から、など)
YES
부터 を使う
NO
에서 (場所・起点) を使う
3
ちょっと待って、それは「人」ですか？
YES
한테서/에게서 を使う
NO ↓
よく使う「부터」の組み合わせ
📅
日常生活
- • 내일부터 (明日から)
- • 오늘부터 (今日から)
- • 아침부터 (朝から)
📺
メディア・内容
- • 1화부터 (1話から)
- • 처음부터 (最初から)
- • 여기부터 (ここから)
レベル別の例文
1
1시부터 공부해요.
I study from 1 o'clock.
2
오늘부터 시작해요.
I start from today.
3
이것부터 먹어요.
Eat this first.
4
내일부터 방학이에요.
It is vacation from tomorrow.
1
몇 시부터 회의가 있어요?
From what time is the meeting?
2
어제부터 아팠어요.
I have been sick since yesterday.
3
이름부터 적어주세요.
Please write your name first.
4
다음 주부터 바빠요.
I am busy from next week.
1
오전 9시부터 오후 6시까지 일해요.
I work from 9 AM to 6 PM.
2
기초부터 다시 배우고 싶어요.
I want to learn from the basics again.
3
순서대로 1번부터 하세요.
Please do it in order from number 1.
4
어디부터 갈까요?
Where should we start from?
1
이번 프로젝트는 기획부터 마무리까지 제가 다 했어요.
I did this project from planning to finishing.
2
어떤 것부터 해결해야 할까요?
What should we solve first?
3
어릴 때부터 한국어를 좋아했어요.
I have liked Korean since I was young.
4
처음부터 다시 설명해 주세요.
Please explain from the beginning again.
1
사소한 것부터 챙기는 습관이 중요해요.
It is important to have the habit of taking care of even small things first.
2
그는 입사 첫날부터 두각을 나타냈어요.
He stood out from his first day at the company.
3
근본적인 문제부터 파악해야 합니다.
We must identify the fundamental problem first.
4
어느 시점부터 상황이 변했나요?
From what point did the situation change?
1
밑바닥부터 시작해서 지금의 자리에 올랐습니다.
I started from the bottom and reached where I am now.
2
그의 말은 처음부터 끝까지 모순투성이였어요.
His words were full of contradictions from start to finish.
3
관습부터 타파해야 개혁이 가능합니다.
We must break down customs first for reform to be possible.
4
어떤 기준부터 적용할지 논의합시다.
Let us discuss which criteria to apply first.
間違えやすい
Particle 부터: The 'Start Button' for Time (From...)
対
부터 vs 에서
Both translate to 'from' in English.
Particle 부터: The 'Start Button' for Time (From...)
対
부터 vs 까지
Learners often mix up start and end.
Particle 부터: The 'Start Button' for Time (From...)
対
부터 vs 먼저
Both can mean 'first'.
よくある間違い
✗
서울부터 왔어요
✓
서울에서 왔어요
Cannot use '부터' for physical origin.
✗
3시 부터
✓
3시부터
Particles must be attached.
✗
학교부터 출발해요
✓
학교에서 출발해요
Origin of movement is '에서'.
✗
내일 부터요
✓
내일부터요
Particle attachment error.
✗
집부터 가요
✓
집에서 가요
Confusing starting point of action with starting point of time.
✗
3시부터 4시까지 공부해요
✓
3시부터 4시까지 공부해요
Actually correct, but often learners forget '까지'.
✗
어디부터 살아요?
✓
어디에서 살아요?
Living location is not a starting point.
✗
한국부터 배웠어요
✓
한국에서 배웠어요
Learning location is not a sequence.
✗
첫 번째부터 시작해요
✓
첫 번째부터 시작해요
Redundant, but common.
✗
그때부터는 안 했어요
✓
그때부터 안 했어요
Overusing '는' particle.
✗
어느 나라부터 왔어요?
✓
어느 나라에서 왔어요?
Origin is '에서'.
文型パターン
___부터 시작해요.
___부터 ___까지 해요.
___부터 해 주세요.
___부터는 괜찮아요.
Real World Usage
Texting
constant
오늘부터 1일!
Work Email
very common
내일부터 휴가입니다.
Ordering Food
common
이것부터 주세요.
Travel
common
어디부터 갈까요?
Social Media
common
오늘부터 다이어트 시작!
Job Interview
occasional
경력부터 말씀드리겠습니다.
💡
「再生ボタン」のイメージ
「부터」はビデオの再生ボタン（▶）だと思ってください。そこから何かが始まる瞬間を指します。 «지금부터 시작!»
⚠️
スペースは空けないで！
「1시 부터」のように離して書くのはNG。名詞にピタッとくっつけて «1시부터» と書きます。
🎯
「まで」がなくても大丈夫
英語や日本語では「〜から〜まで」とセットで言うことが多いですが、韓国語では «9시부터»（9時から）だけで言い切っても自然です。
💬
ドラマでおなじみの告白フレーズ
韓国では付き合い始めた日を «오늘부터 1일»（今日から1日目）と言います。とってもロマンチックな表現ですね！
Smart Tips
Use '부터' and '까지' together to be precise.
3시부터 공부해요.
→
3시부터 5시까지 공부해요.
Use '부터' to prioritize tasks.
이거 하세요.
→
이것부터 하세요.
Use '부터' to show how long you have done something.
어제 공부했어요.
→
어제부터 공부했어요.
Use '처음부터' to emphasize the beginning.
다시 설명해요.
→
처음부터 다시 설명해요.
発音
부-터
No sound change
The particle '부터' is pronounced as written [bu-teo].
Rising
몇 시부터↗?
Used for questions.
暗記しよう
記憶術
Think of '부터' as the 'Boot' button on a computer—it starts the system!
視覚的連想
Imagine a race track. The starting line has a big sign that says '부터'. Every runner must pass this sign to start the race.
Rhyme
Time or order, start the show, add '부터' and you're good to go!
Story
Min-su is very busy. He writes a list. He looks at the list and says, 'I will start from the top.' He writes '공부부터' (Study first) at the top of his list. Now he is ready to work.
Word Web
오늘부터처음부터지금부터어제부터이것부터나부터
チャレンジ
Write down 3 things you need to do today. Write them in Korean using '부터' to show the order.
文化メモ
In business, using '부터' correctly when setting deadlines shows professionalism.
When sharing food, it is polite to suggest what to eat first using '부터'.
Teachers often use '부터' to guide students through a textbook.
The particle '부터' evolved from the verb '붙다' (to stick/attach).
会話のきっかけ
“
몇 시부터 일해요?
“
어디부터 갈까요?
“
언제부터 한국어를 공부했어요?
“
어떤 것부터 해결해야 할까요?
日記のテーマ
Write about your daily schedule starting from the morning.
What is the first thing you do when you get home?
Describe a project you are working on and how you prioritize tasks.
Reflect on a change in your life and when it started.
よくある間違い
Incorrect
正解
Incorrect
正解
Incorrect
正解
Incorrect
正解
Test Yourself
文脈に合う正しい助詞を選んでください。
「午前9時から運動します」を正しく言っているのは？
✓ Correct!
✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 9시부터 운동해요.
時間のスタート地点を表す時は、必ず
부터 を使います。
韓国語のフレーズと日本語の意味を繋げてください。
時間の表現を正しくマッチさせましょう：
✓ Correct!
✗ Not quite. Correct answer: matched
내일は明日、지금は今、아침は朝という意味です。
分かち書き（スペース）の間違いを見つけてください。
正しい綴りはどれですか？
✓ Correct!
✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 오늘부터
韓国語の助詞は、前の名詞にスペースを空けずに直接くっつけます。
Score: /3
練習問題
8 exercises
Fill in the blank with the correct particle.
내일___ 시작해요.
✓ Correct!
✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 부터
'부터' marks the start time.
Which sentence is correct?
選択問題
Choose the correct sentence.
✓ Correct!
✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 서울에서 왔어요.
Origin of place is '에서'.
Fix the error in the sentence.
Error Correction
Find and fix the mistake:
3시 부터 시작해요.
✓ Correct!
✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 3시부터 시작해요.
No space before particles.
Reorder the words.
Sentence Reorder
내일 / 시작해요 / 부터
✓ Correct!
✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 내일부터 시작해요
Particle attaches to the noun.
Translate to Korean.
翻訳
From 2 o'clock.
✓ Correct!
✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 2시부터
Temporal start is '부터'.
Match the English to Korean.
Match Pairs
From today
✓ Correct!
✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 오늘부터
Today = 오늘, From = 부터.
Build a sentence.
Sentence Building
Use '이것' and '부터' to say 'Do this first'.
✓ Correct!
✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 이것부터 하세요.
Sequence start is '부터'.
Which is correct for a schedule?
選択問題
9시___ 회의가 있어요.
✓ Correct!
✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 부터
Time start is '부터'.
Score: /8
Practice Bank
10 exercises
空欄に正しい助詞を入れてください。
穴埋め問題
お昼休みは12時_____です。 (점심은 12시_____입니다.)
✓ Correct!
✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 부터
太字の部分を韓国語に訳してください。
翻訳
**昨日から**待っています。
✓ Correct!
✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 어제부터
場所の起点として自然な文章を選んでください。
選択問題
私は韓国**から**来ました。
✓ Correct!
✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 한국에서 왔어요.
「ここから読んでください」という意味になるように並べ替えてください。
Sentence Reorder
並べ替え： [읽어 주세요] [부터] [여기]
✓ Correct!
✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 여기부터 읽어 주세요
対になる概念をマッチさせてください。
Match Pairs
始まりの助詞と終わりの助詞をペアにしてください：
✓ Correct!
✗ Not quite. Correct answer: matched
文章の中の間違いを直してください。
Error Correction
間違い探し： 3시 에서 5시까지 공부해요.
✓ Correct!
✗ Not quite. Correct answer: Change 3시 에서 to 3시부터
フレーズを完成させてください。
穴埋め問題
____ スタート！ (____ 시작해!)
✓ Correct!
✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 지금부터
順番やシーケンスを意味する文章はどれ？
選択問題
「君から先に行って」という意味になるのは？
✓ Correct!
✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 너부터 가.
「最初から」はどう言いますか？
翻訳
「最初から」を韓国語で訳すと？
✓ Correct!
✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 처음부터
コンテキストと助詞をマッチさせてください。
Match Pairs
どの場面でどっちを使う？
✓ Correct!
✗ Not quite. Correct answer: matched
Score: /10
よくある質問 (8)
No, use '에서' for places. '부터' is strictly for time or sequence.
No, it must be attached to the noun.
Yes, they are often used together to show a range: '3시부터 5시까지'.
No, it is always '부터' regardless of the noun.
It is neutral and used in all levels of formality.
'부터' is a particle attached to a noun; '먼저' is an adverb meaning 'first'.
Yes, '나부터' means 'starting with me'.
Adding '는' adds a nuance of 'from this point onwards' or contrast.
Scaffolded Practice
1
1
2
2
3
3
4
4
Mastery Progress
Needs Practice
Improving
Strong
Mastered
In Other Languages
Spanish
moderate
desde
Korean requires different particles for time vs. place.
French
high
à partir de
French is a multi-word phrase; Korean is a single particle.
German
high
ab
German 'ab' is a preposition; Korean '부터' is a postposition.
Japanese
high
kara
Japanese 'kara' covers both time and place, unlike Korean.
Arabic
moderate
min
Arabic 'min' is a preposition.
Chinese
moderate
cong
Chinese 'cong' precedes the noun; Korean '부터' follows it.
Learning Path
Prerequisites
Continue With
Related Grammar Rules
A1
フォーマルな「と」：名詞の連結 (와/과)
### Overview 韓国語の学習を始めたばかりの皆さん、こんにちは！これから一緒に韓国語の文法を楽しく学んでいきましょう。今回...
A1
場所と目的地の助詞「〜に」(에)
### Overview 韓国語の学習を始めたばかりの皆さん、こんにちは！これから一緒に韓国語の文法を学んでいきましょう。韓国語を学...
C1
助詞 -조차: 〜さえ（否定的極限）
### Overview 韓国語学習において、C1レベルに達した皆さんが次に目指すべきは、単なる情報の伝達ではなく「感情の深み」や「状...
B2
〜どころか (커녕)
### Overview 韓国語の学習において、中級レベルから上級へとステップアップする際に欠かせないのが「否定的なニュアンスを伴う...
A1
助詞 도 (〜も)
Overview 韓国の焼肉店にいると想像してください。サムギョプサル（`삼겹살`）を注文しました。でも、カルビ（`갈비`）なしでは...
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