흡수
흡수 30秒で
- Heup-su (흡수) primarily means the physical act of soaking up liquids, similar to how a sponge or paper towel works in daily life.
- It is also used biologically to describe how the body takes in nutrients from food or how skin absorbs beauty products.
- Metaphorically, it describes a person learning information quickly ('absorbing knowledge') or a large company taking over a smaller one in business.
- Grammatically, it is a noun that becomes the active verb '흡수하다' (to absorb) or the passive verb '흡수되다' (to be absorbed).
The Korean word 흡수 (Heup-su) is a versatile noun derived from Hanja that describes the process of taking something in. At its most literal level, it refers to a material soaking up a liquid, like a paper towel lifting a spill. However, its usage extends far beyond the kitchen or the laboratory. In Korean society, this word is used to describe how our bodies process nutrients, how students learn new concepts, how car parts protect us during accidents, and even how large corporations grow by taking over smaller competitors.
- Literal Absorption
- This refers to physical phenomena where matter takes in another substance. A common example is '수분 흡수' (moisture absorption) in skincare or textiles.
- Cognitive Absorption
- When a person learns quickly and thoroughly, Koreans say they 'absorb knowledge' like a sponge. This implies a high level of focus and efficiency in learning.
- Economic/Business Absorption
- In the context of M&A (Mergers and Acquisitions), '흡수 합병' refers to an absorption merger where one company is completely integrated into another.
스펀지가 물을 아주 빠르게 흡수하고 있어요.
Understanding '흡수' requires looking at the Hanja: 吸 (흡) meaning 'to suck or inhale' and 收 (수) meaning 'to receive or collect'. Together, they create a powerful image of actively pulling something into oneself. Whether it is a plant absorbing sunlight through its leaves or a social group absorbing a new member, the core idea remains the same: the boundary between the 'inside' and the 'outside' becomes porous as the exterior element becomes part of the interior.
아이들은 새로운 지식을 스펀지처럼 흡수합니다.
In scientific contexts, '흡수' is the standard term for energy transfer. For instance, black surfaces have a high '흡수율' (absorption rate) for light. In biological terms, it is the process by which the products of digestion are taken into the blood. This technical accuracy makes it a favorite word in both academic papers and high-school science textbooks. However, it doesn't feel overly stiff; a coach might tell an athlete to 'absorb the impact' (충격을 흡수하다) when landing a jump to avoid injury.
이 운동화는 충격 흡수 기능이 뛰어납니다.
- Environmental Context
- Forests are often called 'carbon sinks' because they absorb carbon dioxide (이산화탄소 흡수). This is a frequent topic in Korean news regarding climate change.
비타민 C는 철분의 흡수를 도와줍니다.
Using 흡수 correctly involves understanding its grammatical role as a noun and its functional role as a verb base. When you want to say something absorbs something else, you use the object marker -을/를 followed by 흡수하다. When you want to say something is being absorbed, you use the subject marker -이/가 followed by 흡수되다. This distinction is crucial for natural-sounding Korean.
- Active Usage (흡수하다)
- Focuses on the entity doing the absorbing. Example: '식물이 햇빛을 흡수한다' (The plant absorbs sunlight).
- Passive Usage (흡수되다)
- Focuses on the substance being taken in. Example: '영양소가 혈액으로 흡수된다' (Nutrients are absorbed into the blood).
이 종이는 잉크를 잘 흡수하지 못해요.
In business contexts, '흡수' is often combined with '합병' (merger) to create 흡수 합병. This isn't just a simple 'joining'; it implies that one company is swallowed by another and ceases to exist as a separate legal entity. This nuance is important for intermediate learners to grasp when reading financial news or business reports in Korean.
대기업이 중소기업을 흡수 합병했습니다.
Another sophisticated way to use '흡수' is in the context of sound and light. In architecture, '흡음' (sound absorption) is a related term, but '소음을 흡수하다' (to absorb noise) is perfectly common. If you are building a home theater or a study room, you might look for materials with high '흡수' properties to ensure a quiet environment. Similarly, in fashion, certain fabrics are marketed as '땀 흡수가 빠른' (quick to absorb sweat), which is a key selling point for athletic wear in Korea's humid summers.
이 티셔츠는 땀 흡수가 정말 빨라요.
- Metaphorical Use
- When a culture adopts elements from another, we use '흡수'. For example, '외래 문화를 흡수하다' (to absorb foreign culture).
그는 스펀지처럼 모든 지식을 흡수했다.
If you live in Korea or consume Korean media, you will encounter 흡수 in several specific domains. One of the most common is in the massive beauty and skincare industry. K-beauty products are often praised for their '흡수력' (absorptive power). You'll hear beauty influencers say things like '끈적임 없이 피부에 쏙 흡수돼요' (It's absorbed into the skin perfectly without stickiness). In this context, '흡수' is a synonym for quality and effectiveness.
- Beauty Commercials
- Ads for serums and lotions focus heavily on how deep and fast the product is absorbed into the skin layers.
- News & Economy
- Financial news uses '흡수' when discussing market liquidity (유동성 흡수) or corporate restructuring.
이 에센스는 피부 흡수가 빨라서 좋아요.
Another place you'll hear this word is in the health and fitness world. Personal trainers and nutritionists frequently talk about '영양소 흡수율' (nutrient absorption rate). They might advise you to eat certain foods together—like healthy fats with carrots—to increase the '흡수' of vitamins. In the gym, you'll hear about '충격 흡수' (shock absorption) in relation to running shoes or gym flooring, which is vital for joint health. This makes the word essential for anyone interested in wellness in Korea.
운동 후에는 단백질 흡수가 중요합니다.
Finally, the word appears in social and political discourse. When discussing North and South Korean relations, the term '흡수 통일' (unification by absorption) is a significant and sometimes controversial concept. It refers to a scenario where one system is entirely integrated into the other, similar to the German reunification. This demonstrates that '흡수' is not just a scientific or commercial term, but one that carries heavy weight in the geopolitical landscape of the Korean peninsula.
그 나라는 주변의 작은 섬들을 흡수했습니다.
- Automotive & Tech
- Car reviews often mention '노면 충격 흡수' (absorption of road shock) to describe a smooth ride quality.
While 흡수 is a common word, English speakers often make mistakes by using it where other Korean words for 'taking in' are more appropriate. The most frequent error is confusing '흡수' (absorption) with '이해' (understanding) or '수용' (acceptance/reception). While you can 'absorb' knowledge, using '흡수' for 'I absorb your opinion' sounds slightly unnatural; '수용' or '받아들이다' would be better in that context.
- Mistake 1: Confusing with '흡입' (Suction)
- If you say a vacuum cleaner '흡수' dust, it's technically understandable but '흡입' is the correct term for the physical act of sucking air or particles.
- Mistake 2: Using with the wrong particles
- Learners often forget that '흡수되다' (to be absorbed) takes the particle '-에' or '-로' for the destination, not '-를'. Correct: '피부에 흡수되다'.
지식을 머리로 흡입했어요. (X)
지식을 머릿속으로 흡수했어요. (O)
Another common pitfall is the distinction between '흡수' and '소화' (digestion). In English, we might say 'I need time to absorb this information' to mean 'I need time to digest it'. In Korean, '소화하다' is actually used very similarly for information. However, '흡수' implies the *taking in* part, while '소화' implies the *processing* and *understanding* part. If you say you 'absorbed' the info, it means you took it all in; if you 'digested' it, it means you now fully understand it and can use it.
화장품이 피부를 흡수해요. (X)
피부가 화장품을 흡수해요. (O)
Lastly, when talking about social integration, '흡수' can sometimes sound a bit aggressive because it implies the smaller group loses its identity. If you want to sound more inclusive or harmonious, words like '통합' (integration) or '조화' (harmony) might be better. Using '흡수' in a social context can sound like 'assimilation' which has a more forceful connotation in Korean sociology.
- Particle Confusion
- Remember: A (Subject) + B (Object) + 을/를 + 흡수하다. / B (Subject) + 이/가 + A (Destination) + 에/로 + 흡수되다.
To truly master 흡수, you should know the words that live in its neighborhood. Depending on the context—whether you're talking about food, water, light, or ideas—there might be a more specific or poetic word to use. Here are the most common alternatives and how they differ from '흡수'.
- 빨아들이다 (Ppal-a-deul-i-da)
- This is a native Korean (pure Korean) verb that literally means 'to suck and bring in'. It is more descriptive and less formal than '흡수하다'. You'd use this when talking about a vacuum cleaner or a person drinking through a straw.
- 섭취하다 (Seop-chwi-ha-da)
- Specifically used for 'intake' or 'ingestion' of food, nutrients, or medicine. While '흡수' happens *after* you eat (in the intestines), '섭취' is the act of eating or taking it into your body.
- 수용하다 (Su-yong-ha-da)
- Used for 'accepting' or 'accommodating' ideas, opinions, or people. It's more about mental or social openness than physical soaking.
그는 타인의 의견을 잘 수용하는 편입니다.
In a business or organizational context, you might hear 병합하다 (to merge) or 통합하다 (to integrate). While '흡수 합병' is a specific legal term, '통합' is more general and often implies a more equal partnership than the 'swallowing' nuance of '흡수'. If a small company is proud to join a larger one, they might use '통합'; if the larger company is showing its power, they might use '흡수'.
진공청소기가 먼지를 빨아들입니다.
Finally, for light and sound, you might encounter 소멸시키다 (to make disappear) or 차단하다 (to block). If a material 'absorbs' sound, it 'extinguishes' (소멸) the energy of the wave. If it 'blocks' sound, it 'reflects' (반사) it. Understanding these physics-based synonyms will help you in technical discussions or when reading product specifications for electronics and construction materials.
- Summary Table
- - Liquid/Nutrients: 흡수 (Heup-su)
- Food/Intake: 섭취 (Seop-chwi)
- Ideas/Opinions: 수용 (Su-yong)
- Physical Sucking: 빨아들이다 (Ppal-a-deul-i-da)
How Formal Is It?
豆知識
While '흡' (吸) is used in '흡혈귀' (Heup-hyeol-gwi), which means 'blood-sucking ghost' or 'vampire', '수' (收) is the same 'su' used in '수입' (Su-ip), which means 'import'. So, etymologically, '흡수' is like 'importing by sucking'.
発音ガイド
- Pronouncing the 'ㅂ' (p) in '흡' as a full 'puh' sound with a release of air.
- Making the 'u' sound in 'su' too long, like 'soo'.
- Confusing the vowel 'ㅡ' in 'heup' with 'ㅜ' (oo) or 'ㅓ' (uh).
- Adding a puff of air (aspiration) to the 'ㅅ' (s) in 'su'.
- Separating the syllables too much; they should flow together tightly.
難易度
The Hanja is common but the word appears in many technical contexts.
Requires knowledge of the active/passive distinction (-하다 vs -되다).
Pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers.
Can be confused with '흡입' or other 'su' words in fast speech.
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-기 위해 (In order to)
흡수를 돕기 위해 물을 많이 마셔요.
-어/아 버리다 (To do completely/regrettably)
종이가 잉크를 다 흡수해 버렸어요.
-도록 설계되다 (To be designed to)
충격을 흡수하도록 설계되었습니다.
-는 편이다 (Tend to)
지식을 빨리 흡수하는 편이에요.
-이/가 되다 (Passive construction)
영양소가 몸에 흡수됩니다.
レベル別の例文
휴지가 물을 흡수해요.
The tissue absorbs the water.
Simple Subject + Object + Verb (Present tense).
스펀지는 물을 잘 흡수합니다.
Sponges absorb water well.
Formal polite ending (-습니다).
수건이 물을 흡수했어요.
The towel absorbed the water.
Past tense (-었어요).
이 종이는 물을 흡수합니까?
Does this paper absorb water?
Question form (-습니까?).
식물은 물을 흡수해요.
Plants absorb water.
General fact in present tense.
땅이 빗물을 흡수해요.
The ground absorbs the rainwater.
Natural phenomenon description.
솜은 액체를 흡수해요.
Cotton absorbs liquids.
Property description.
이 옷은 땀을 흡수해요.
This clothing absorbs sweat.
Everyday functional description.
피부에 크림이 잘 흡수돼요.
The cream is absorbed well into the skin.
Passive form (흡수되다).
검은색은 빛을 흡수합니다.
Black color absorbs light.
Scientific fact using formal speech.
아이들은 지식을 빠르게 흡수해요.
Children absorb knowledge quickly.
Metaphorical usage.
이 신발은 충격을 잘 흡수해요.
These shoes absorb shock well.
Compound noun (충격 흡수).
비타민이 몸에 흡수되고 있어요.
Vitamins are being absorbed into the body.
Progressive passive (-고 있다).
나무가 이산화탄소를 흡수해요.
Trees absorb carbon dioxide.
Environmental context.
종이가 잉크를 너무 많이 흡수했어요.
The paper absorbed too much ink.
Adverb '너무' (too much) with past tense.
수분이 공기 중으로 흡수되었습니다.
Moisture was absorbed into the air.
Formal passive past tense.
칼슘의 흡수를 돕기 위해 비타민 D가 필요합니다.
Vitamin D is needed to help the absorption of calcium.
Noun form (흡수) with '돕기 위해' (in order to help).
이 소재는 소음을 흡수하는 기능이 있습니다.
This material has a function that absorbs noise.
Attributive form (-는) modifying '기능' (function).
대기업이 작은 회사를 흡수 합병했습니다.
The large company absorbed and merged the small company.
Business terminology (흡수 합병).
운동 선수는 충격 흡수가 좋은 운동화를 신어야 합니다.
Athletes must wear sneakers with good shock absorption.
Obligation form (-어야 합니다).
설탕은 몸에 빠르게 흡수되어 에너지가 됩니다.
Sugar is quickly absorbed into the body and becomes energy.
Sequential connective (-어/아).
그 스펀지는 자기 무게의 10배나 되는 물을 흡수합니다.
That sponge absorbs as much as 10 times its own weight in water.
Emphasis particle '-나' (as much as).
피부가 자외선을 흡수하면 손상될 수 있습니다.
If the skin absorbs UV rays, it can be damaged.
Conditional form (-면).
이 스카프는 땀 흡수력이 뛰어납니다.
This scarf has excellent sweat absorption power.
Suffix '-력' (power/ability).
식물의 뿌리는 삼투압을 통해 물을 흡수한다.
Plant roots absorb water through osmotic pressure.
Technical 'plain' style (-(ㄴ)다).
정부는 시장의 과잉 유동성을 흡수하기로 결정했다.
The government decided to absorb the market's excess liquidity.
Economic context with '기로 결정하다' (decide to).
이 건물은 지진의 충격을 흡수하도록 설계되었습니다.
This building was designed to absorb the shock of earthquakes.
Purpose connective (-도록).
그 작가는 다양한 문화적 요소를 자신의 작품에 흡수시켰다.
That writer absorbed various cultural elements into his work.
Causative form (흡수시키다 - to make absorb).
소장에서는 대부분의 영양소 흡수가 일어납니다.
Most nutrient absorption occurs in the small intestine.
Formal academic tone.
반도체 소자가 빛을 흡수하여 전기를 발생시킵니다.
The semiconductor device absorbs light and generates electricity.
Sequential action in science.
그 신도시는 주변 농촌 지역을 빠르게 흡수하며 팽창했다.
The new city expanded by quickly absorbing the surrounding rural areas.
Simultaneous action (-으며).
이 필터는 유해 물질을 효과적으로 흡수합니다.
This filter effectively absorbs harmful substances.
Adverb '효과적으로' (effectively).
중앙은행은 인플레이션을 억제하기 위해 통화량을 흡수하고 있다.
The central bank is absorbing the money supply to suppress inflation.
Advanced economic terminology.
블랙홀은 주변의 모든 물질과 빛을 흡수하는 천체이다.
A black hole is a celestial body that absorbs all surrounding matter and light.
Definition-style sentence.
그 철학자는 동양 사상을 서구적 체계 안에 흡수하려고 시도했다.
That philosopher attempted to absorb Eastern thought within a Western framework.
Intentional form (-으려고 시도하다).
회사의 부채가 자본을 모두 흡수해 버리는 최악의 상황이 발생했다.
The worst-case scenario occurred where the company's debt completely absorbed its capital.
Complete action with emotion (-어 버리다).
이 단열재는 열 흡수율이 낮아 에너지 효율이 높습니다.
This insulation has a low heat absorption rate, so it has high energy efficiency.
Causal relationship in technical context.
그 언어는 수많은 외래어를 흡수하며 풍성해졌다.
The language became rich by absorbing numerous loanwords.
Abstract metaphorical expansion.
활성탄은 냄새 입자를 흡수하여 공기를 정화하는 데 탁월하다.
Activated carbon is excellent at purifying air by absorbing odor particles.
Noun phrase '하는 데' (in doing something).
그 예술가는 고전의 정수를 흡수하여 현대적으로 재해석했다.
The artist absorbed the essence of the classics and reinterpreted them in a modern way.
High-level cultural description.
흡수 통일은 양측의 사회적 갈등을 야기할 가능성이 크다는 지적이 있다.
There are points made that unification by absorption has a high possibility of causing social conflict between both sides.
Complex noun phrase as a subject.
빛의 파장에 따른 흡수 스펙트럼을 분석하여 성분을 파악한다.
By analyzing the absorption spectrum according to the wavelength of light, the components are identified.
Advanced scientific methodology.
그 제국은 피정복 민족의 신앙을 흡수함으로써 통치 기반을 공고히 했다.
The empire solidified its basis of rule by absorbing the faiths of the conquered peoples.
Instrumental '함으로써' (by doing).
뇌의 가소성은 새로운 정보를 끊임없이 흡수하고 재구조화하는 능력이다.
Brain plasticity is the ability to constantly absorb and restructure new information.
Neuroscience context.
대기 중의 수증기가 잠열을 흡수하여 기상 이변을 초래하기도 한다.
Water vapor in the atmosphere absorbs latent heat, sometimes leading to extreme weather events.
Causal chain in meteorology.
그 소설의 문체는 독자를 이야기 속으로 완전히 흡수해 버리는 마력이 있다.
The style of that novel has a magical power that completely absorbs the reader into the story.
Literary metaphor.
기업의 생태계가 파괴되면서 거대 자본이 골목 상권까지 흡수하고 있다.
As the business ecosystem is destroyed, giant capital is absorbing even the alleyway markets.
Social critique.
방사능 오염 물질이 토양에 흡수될 경우 생태계에 치명적인 영향을 미친다.
If radioactive pollutants are absorbed into the soil, it has a fatal impact on the ecosystem.
Conditional '을 경우' with serious tone.
よく使う組み合わせ
よく使うフレーズ
— The ability to learn or take in something very quickly and completely. Often used to praise children's learning abilities.
우리 아이는 스펀지 같은 흡수력을 가졌어요.
— Meaning the rate of taking something in is low. Frequently used in medical or scientific contexts.
이 약은 체내 흡수율이 낮아서 문제다.
— To lessen the impact of a physical or emotional blow. Used for car safety or emotional resilience.
그는 슬픈 소식을 들었지만 충격을 잘 흡수했다.
— The process of skin or materials taking in ultraviolet rays. Common in sunscreen marketing.
자외선 흡수를 막기 위해 선크림을 발라야 한다.
— The act of taking in water or moisture. Essential for plants and human skin health.
겨울철에는 피부 수분 흡수가 중요하다.
— To learn new information effectively. Suggests a deep and rapid acquisition of knowledge.
책을 읽으며 새로운 지식을 흡수했다.
— To be absorbed and merged by another (usually larger) company. Often implies a loss of autonomy.
그 벤처 기업은 결국 대기업에 흡수 합병을 당했다.
— To dampen or eliminate sound waves using specific materials. Common in interior design.
방음벽은 소음을 흡수하여 조용한 환경을 만든다.
— To take in thermal energy. Used in cooking, physics, and climate discussions.
검은색 지붕은 열을 많이 흡수한다.
— Fast absorption. A key marketing term for skincare, medicine, and cleaning products.
이 제품의 특징은 빠른 흡수입니다.
よく混同される語
Heup-ip is the physical act of suction or inhalation (like a vacuum or breathing), whereas Heup-su is the integration of the substance into the absorber.
Su-yong is for accepting ideas or accommodating people, while Heup-su is more about 'soaking in' literally or metaphorically.
So-hwa is digestion/processing. You 'absorb' (흡수) the food in your gut, but you 'digest' (소화) it to make it useful. Same for information.
慣用句と表現
— To learn or take in information very quickly and without resistance, just like a sponge takes in water.
그 신입 사원은 업무를 스펀지처럼 흡수하고 있다.
Neutral/Positive— To have information enter one's mind very easily and clearly. Usually used when a teacher explains things well.
선생님의 설명이 머릿속으로 쏙쏙 흡수돼요.
Informal/Positive— A more intense version of absorbing knowledge, implying a strong desire or thirst for learning.
그는 도서관의 모든 책을 빨아들일 기세로 읽었다.
Neutral— Beyond physical shock, it means to handle a psychological blow or financial loss without collapsing.
우리 회사는 이번 위기의 충격을 잘 흡수했다.
Neutral— To take in and be influenced by the surrounding environment or mood.
그는 새로운 팀의 분위기를 빠르게 흡수했다.
Neutral— To adopt and integrate foreign or different cultural elements into one's own lifestyle.
한국은 서구 문화를 빠르게 흡수하여 발전시켰다.
Neutral— To take the 'good parts' or 'essence' out of an experience or a book.
고전 문학에서 인생의 영양분을 흡수해야 한다.
Literary— In a competitive context, for a larger power to take over smaller entities.
대도시가 주변의 작은 마을들을 흡수하고 있다.
Neutral— Used to describe something that takes in everything and gives nothing back, or a very charismatic person.
그 프로젝트는 예산을 흡수하는 블랙홀과 같다.
Metaphorical— To acknowledge and value someone's hard work and effort.
이 성공은 우리 모두의 땀방울을 흡수한 결과입니다.
Poetic間違えやすい
Both relate to taking things into the body.
Seop-chwi is the act of eating/ingesting. Heup-su is what happens once the nutrients pass into the bloodstream.
영양소를 섭취하고 나서 몸에 흡수된다.
They have the same meaning.
Ppal-a-deul-i-da is a native Korean verb and feels more physical/active. Heup-su is Sino-Korean and feels more formal/scientific.
빨대가 음료수를 빨아들인다.
Both mean becoming part of something else.
Dong-hwa (assimilation) is usually social or biological. Heup-su is more general and physical.
그는 이민 사회에 동화되었다.
Both relate to being part of a whole.
Po-ham means 'including' (just being there). Heup-su means one thing was taken into another and integrated.
세금은 가격에 포함되어 있다.
Both mean taking something in.
Sam-ki-da is 'to swallow'. It's more about the throat action or a sudden takeover. Heup-su is a more gradual soaking process.
알약을 삼켰다.
文型パターン
[Noun]이/가 물을 흡수해요.
수건이 물을 흡수해요.
[Noun]에 잘 흡수돼요.
피부에 잘 흡수돼요.
[Noun]은/는 [Noun]의 흡수를 도와요.
비타민 D는 칼슘의 흡수를 도와요.
스펀지처럼 [Noun]을/를 흡수하다.
스펀지처럼 지식을 흡수하다.
[Noun]을/를 흡수하도록 설계되다.
충격을 흡수하도록 설계되다.
[Noun]의 흡수율이 높다/낮다.
이 약은 흡수율이 낮아요.
[Noun]을/를 흡수 합병하다.
대기업이 중소기업을 흡수 합병했다.
[Noun]을/를 자기 것으로 흡수하다.
외래 문화를 자기 것으로 흡수하다.
語族
名詞
動詞
形容詞
関連
使い方
Very high in scientific, medical, business, and beauty contexts. Moderate in general daily conversation.
-
Using '흡수' for 'understanding' an opinion.
→
수용하다 (accept) or 받아들이다 (take in).
While you can absorb knowledge, 'absorbing' an opinion sounds like you are physically taking it in. '수용' is better for ideas.
-
Saying '화장품이 피부를 흡수해요'.
→
피부가 화장품을 흡수해요.
The skin (absorber) must be the subject, and the cosmetic (substance) must be the object. Don't flip them!
-
Using '흡수' for a vacuum cleaner.
→
흡입 (suction).
Vacuum cleaners use air pressure to suck things in, which is '흡입'. '흡수' is more about soaking or integrating.
-
Using '흡수되다' with '-를'.
→
피부에 흡수되다.
Passive verbs like '흡수되다' don't take direct objects with '-를'. They take subjects with '-이/가' and destinations with '-에'.
-
Confusing '흡수' with '섭취'.
→
영양소를 섭취하다 vs 영양소가 흡수되다.
You '섭취' (ingest) food by mouth, but the body '흡수' (absorbs) the nutrients later in the intestines.
ヒント
Active vs Passive
Remember that '흡수하다' takes an object (what is being absorbed), while '흡수되다' takes a subject (the thing that is being absorbed) and a destination marked by '-에'.
The Sponge Metaphor
Use '스펀지처럼' (like a sponge) with '흡수하다' to describe someone who learns very quickly. It's a very common and natural expression in Korea.
Pronunciation of 'Heup'
Make sure to close your lips completely at the end of '흡'. Do not release any air. It should be a 'silent p' that stops the sound abruptly.
Business Mergers
If you are reading business news, '흡수 합병' (M&A) is a very frequent term. It means the smaller company's name and legal status will likely disappear.
Technical Suffixes
Learn '-력' (power) and '-율' (rate). '흡수력' is the ability to absorb, and '흡수율' is the percentage or rate at which something is absorbed.
K-Beauty Keywords
When shopping for Korean skincare, look for '빠른 흡수' (fast absorption) and '흡수력' on the packaging to find high-quality products.
Cleaning and Textiles
When buying towels or gym clothes, look for '흡수성' (absorbency). Cotton (면) is usually praised for its high '흡수성' in Korea.
Nutrient Absorption
Use '흡수' when talking about vitamins. For example, '비타민 C는 철분의 흡수를 도와요' (Vitamin C helps iron absorption).
Atmosphere and Mood
You can 'absorb' the mood of a room. If everyone is sad, you might '흡수' that sadness. It shows you are empathetic and sensitive to the environment.
Formal vs Informal
Use '흡수하다' for written reports and '빨아들이다' for more vivid, descriptive storytelling or informal talking.
暗記しよう
記憶術
Imagine a 'Heup' (the sound of a quick gasp or sip) and 'Su' (which sounds like 'soup'). You are 'Heup-ing' up the 'Su-p' (soup) with a straw. That is '흡수' (absorption)!
視覚的連想
Visualize a bright yellow sponge (스펀지) sitting in a puddle of water. As the water disappears into the sponge, see the word '흡수' written on the sponge.
Word Web
チャレンジ
Try to find three products in your house today that claim to have '흡수' properties (like towels, diapers, or skincare) and say '이것은 흡수력이 좋아요' (This has good absorption) out loud.
語源
The word '흡수' (Heup-su) originates from Middle Chinese characters (Hanja). The first character '吸' (흡) means to breathe in, suck, or inhale. The second character '收' (수) means to receive, gather, harvest, or collect.
元の意味: The original combined meaning was the act of sucking something in and collecting it within oneself.
Sino-Korean (Hanja-based vocabulary).文化的な背景
Be careful when using '흡수' in political contexts regarding North Korea, as it can imply a forced takeover rather than a peaceful union.
In English, 'absorption' is often technical, but in Korean, '흡수' is used very frequently in daily conversation, especially regarding skincare and education.
実生活で練習する
実際の使用場面
Skincare & Beauty
- 흡수력이 좋아요
- 끈적임 없이 흡수돼요
- 피부 깊숙이 흡수돼요
- 빠른 흡수
Education & Learning
- 지식을 흡수하다
- 스펀지 같은 학생
- 내용을 흡수하다
- 머릿속에 흡수되다
Health & Nutrition
- 영양소 흡수율
- 칼슘 흡수
- 체내 흡수
- 흡수를 돕다
Business & Economy
- 흡수 합병
- 유동성 흡수
- 시장 흡수
- 기업 흡수
Science & Environment
- 빛의 흡수
- 충격 흡수
- 이산화탄소 흡수
- 열 흡수
会話のきっかけ
"이 화장품은 피부에 흡수가 잘 되는 것 같아요. (I think this cosmetic absorbs well into the skin.)"
"아이들은 정말 새로운 언어를 스펀지처럼 흡수하네요. (Children really absorb new languages like sponges.)"
"운동화 고를 때 충격 흡수가 가장 중요하다고 생각하세요? (Do you think shock absorption is the most important when choosing sneakers?)"
"비타민을 먹을 때 흡수율을 높이는 방법이 있을까요? (Is there a way to increase the absorption rate when taking vitamins?)"
"이 수건은 왜 이렇게 물을 흡수하지 못할까요? (Why doesn't this towel absorb water well?)"
日記のテーマ
오늘 새로 배운 지식 중에서 가장 잘 흡수된 내용은 무엇인가요? (What was the most well-absorbed piece of knowledge you learned today?)
당신은 새로운 환경에 갔을 때 그곳의 분위기를 잘 흡수하는 편인가요? (Are you the type of person who absorbs the atmosphere well when you go to a new environment?)
만약 당신이 스펀지라면, 세상에서 무엇을 가장 많이 흡수하고 싶나요? (If you were a sponge, what would you want to absorb most in the world?)
최근에 당신의 마음을 완전히 흡수해 버린 책이나 영화가 있나요? (Is there a book or movie that has completely absorbed your heart recently?)
건강을 위해 영양소 흡수에 대해 신경 쓰고 있는 부분이 있나요? (Is there anything you are paying attention to regarding nutrient absorption for your health?)
よくある質問
10 問Yes, you can say '내용을 흡수했다', which means you took in all the information. However, if you want to emphasize that you fully understand and can apply it, '소화했다' (digested) or '이해했다' (understood) might be more common.
'흡수하다' is active (The sponge absorbs water), while '흡수되다' is passive (Water is absorbed by the sponge). Use '-을/를' with the active form and '-이/가' with the passive form.
Absolutely. It is the standard term for light absorption (빛의 흡수) and sound absorption (소음/음파의 흡수) in science and architecture.
It is neutral but can feel aggressive. It means one company completely disappears into another. For the larger company, it's growth; for the smaller one, it's the end of its independent brand.
Yes, but usually metaphorically. You can say a team 'absorbed' a new member, or a culture 'absorbed' immigrants. It implies the new person becomes part of the existing group's identity.
You would say '흡수성이 좋다' (The absorptive property is good) or '흡수력이 뛰어나다' (The absorptive power is excellent).
Yes, the first character '흡' (吸) means to inhale. It's the same '흡' in '호흡' (breathing). However, '흡수' specifically refers to the soaking/integration part, not the act of breathing itself.
It refers to 'unification by absorption', specifically the idea of South Korea absorbing North Korea (or vice versa) into its existing system, similar to how West Germany absorbed East Germany.
While '흡수' is technically possible, '흡입' (suction) is the correct and more common term for vacuuming dust or air.
K-beauty focuses on 'deep' treatment. If a product just sits on top of the skin, it's considered ineffective. Therefore, 'absorption' (흡수) is the key measure of a product's success.
自分をテスト 200 問
Translate to Korean: 'The sponge absorbs water.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translate to Korean: 'The lotion was absorbed into the skin.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translate to Korean: 'He absorbs knowledge like a sponge.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translate to Korean: 'This car has good shock absorption.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translate to Korean: 'Plants absorb nutrients from the soil.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translate to Korean: 'The large company absorbed the small company.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translate to Korean: 'Vitamin C helps iron absorption.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translate to Korean: 'Black clothes absorb heat in the summer.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translate to Korean: 'The noise was absorbed by the thick curtains.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translate to Korean: 'I want to absorb all the information.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translate to Korean: 'The tissue is soaking up the coffee.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translate to Korean: 'What is the absorption rate of this drug?'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translate to Korean: 'The city absorbed the surrounding villages.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translate to Korean: 'This fabric is excellent at absorbing sweat.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translate to Korean: 'The earth absorbs rainwater.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translate to Korean: 'The soundproofing material absorbs sound waves.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translate to Korean: 'The skin's absorption power decreases with age.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translate to Korean: 'The government absorbed the excess cash in the market.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translate to Korean: 'The athlete's shoes must absorb the impact.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translate to Korean: 'I absorbed the local culture while traveling.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
How do you say 'The sponge absorbs water' in polite Korean?
Read this aloud:
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Explain 'shock absorption' to a friend buying shoes.
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Ask a shop assistant if a lotion is absorbed quickly.
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Tell someone that children learn like sponges.
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Describe why you wear black in winter and white in summer.
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Explain why Vitamin C is good for iron intake.
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Say 'This towel has great absorption power.'
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Talk about a company merging with another.
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Ask if a material can absorb noise.
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Say 'I want to absorb all this new information.'
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Describe the process of a plant getting water.
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Warn someone about UV rays.
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Tell a student to focus and take in the lesson.
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Mention that a car ride was smooth due to shock absorption.
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Discuss the 'unification by absorption' briefly.
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Ask about the absorption rate of a supplement.
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Say 'The ground absorbed the rain.'
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Explain that cotton is good for sweat.
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Describe a book that you couldn't put down.
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Say 'The company is absorbing the excess money in the market.'
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Listen and identify the word: '스펀지, 물, ____.'
Listen to the sentence: '피부에 쏙 흡수돼요.' What is being described?
Listen to the sentence: '충격 흡수 매트 있어요?' Where is the speaker?
Listen: '철분 흡수를 도와줍니다.' What does the substance do?
Listen: 'A사가 B사를 흡수 합병했습니다.' What happened to Company B?
Listen: '자외선 흡수율이 낮아요.' Is the material good for sun protection?
Listen: '지식을 스펀지처럼 흡수하네!' Is this a compliment?
Listen: '땀 흡수가 빠른 티셔츠입니다.' What is the selling point?
Listen: '소음을 흡수하는 커튼이에요.' What does the curtain do?
Listen: '흡수 통일에 대해 어떻게 생각하세요?' What is the topic?
Listen: '영양소 흡수는 소장에서 일어납니다.' Where does it happen?
Listen: '검은색은 빛을 흡수해요.' What color is mentioned?
Listen: '이 약은 흡수율이 높습니다.' Is the drug efficient?
Listen: '땅이 물을 흡수하지 못해요.' What is the problem?
Listen: '충격을 흡수하는 범퍼입니다.' What part of the car is it?
/ 200 correct
Perfect score!
Summary
The word '흡수' (Heup-su) is essential for describing how things are taken in, whether literally (water, light, sound) or figuratively (knowledge, companies). A key example is '스펀지처럼 지식을 흡수하다' (to absorb knowledge like a sponge), which highlights its use in education and learning.
- Heup-su (흡수) primarily means the physical act of soaking up liquids, similar to how a sponge or paper towel works in daily life.
- It is also used biologically to describe how the body takes in nutrients from food or how skin absorbs beauty products.
- Metaphorically, it describes a person learning information quickly ('absorbing knowledge') or a large company taking over a smaller one in business.
- Grammatically, it is a noun that becomes the active verb '흡수하다' (to absorb) or the passive verb '흡수되다' (to be absorbed).
Active vs Passive
Remember that '흡수하다' takes an object (what is being absorbed), while '흡수되다' takes a subject (the thing that is being absorbed) and a destination marked by '-에'.
The Sponge Metaphor
Use '스펀지처럼' (like a sponge) with '흡수하다' to describe someone who learns very quickly. It's a very common and natural expression in Korea.
Pronunciation of 'Heup'
Make sure to close your lips completely at the end of '흡'. Do not release any air. It should be a 'silent p' that stops the sound abruptly.
Business Mergers
If you are reading business news, '흡수 합병' (M&A) is a very frequent term. It means the smaller company's name and legal status will likely disappear.
例文
식물은 뿌리를 통해 물을 흡수한다.
関連コンテンツ
scienceの関連語
흡수하다
B2液体、光、知識などを吸収すること。企業を合併すること。
축적하다
B2知識、経験、富などを長期間にわたって大量に蓄えること。例:彼は長年の研究で膨大な知識を蓄積した。
축적
B2富、知識、経験などが時間とともに徐々に蓄積されていくこと。(The gradual gathering of wealth, knowledge, or experience over time.)
누적
B2時間が経つにつれて集まったり積み重なったりすること。徐々に築かれた合計量。
후천적
B2Acquired or learned after birth through experience, education, or environment.
작용
B2あるものが別のものに及ぼす作用や効果、あるいは特定のプロセスの機能。 (The action or effect that something has on another thing, or the functioning of a particular process.)
조절하다
B1To adjust, regulate, or control something to a desired level or state. It often refers to managing physical settings or personal habits.
증폭
B2音や信号、あるいは感情や問題などの強さや大きさが増すこと(増幅)。例:「アンプで音を増幅する」「疑惑が増幅される」。
증폭되다
B2To be amplified, magnified, or increased in intensity. It can refer to physical signals or abstract concepts like tension or rumors.
해부
B1生物の体を解体して構造を調べること。比喩的に、状況や文章を詳細に分析すること。