At the A1 level, the word '결함' (defect/flaw) is quite advanced. You don't need to use it yourself yet, but you might see it in simple signs or labels. Think of it as a very serious way to say 'something is wrong' (문제가 있어요). At this stage, it's better to stick to '고장' (broken) for objects like phones or toys. If you see '결함' on a product, it means the company is saying 'This product has a problem.' Just remember that '결함' is a noun, and it usually means a 'mistake' in how something was made. For example, 'This car has a 결함' means the car was not made correctly.
For A2 learners, '결함' is a word you will start to encounter in news headlines or product manuals. You should understand that it is more formal than '고장' (broken) or '나빠요' (bad). While '고장' means something stopped working, '결함' means there was a mistake in the design. You can use it in simple sentences like '이 제품은 결함이 있어요' (This product has a defect). It is mostly used for machines and electronics. If you are shopping and see this word, it's a warning that the item is not perfect. You don't need to use it in daily conversation, but knowing it will help you understand formal announcements.
At the B1 level, you should be able to distinguish between '결함' (defect) and '단점' (shortcoming). '단점' is used for general pros and cons, while '결함' is used for serious functional or structural problems. You might use '결함' when explaining why you are returning a product or why a certain plan didn't work. For example, '시스템 결함 때문에 결제가 안 돼요' (Payment isn't working because of a system defect). You are starting to see this word used for people too, like '성격적 결함' (character flaw), though this is less common than using it for objects. You should be comfortable using '결함' in formal writing tasks.
At the B2 level, you must master '결함'. This word is a key part of discussing social issues, technology, and literature. You should know common collocations like '치명적인 결함' (fatal flaw) and '구조적 결함' (structural defect). You should also understand that in a legal or business context, '결함' implies responsibility and liability. In TOPIK II, you will see this word in reading passages about product recalls or psychological analyses of characters. You should be able to use it accurately in the writing section to describe why a certain system or policy is failing. It's no longer just about 'broken things'; it's about 'inherent flaws'.
For C1 learners, '결함' should be a natural part of your academic and professional vocabulary. You should understand the subtle differences between '결함', '하자' (legal defect), and '결핍' (deficiency). You should be able to use '결함' to discuss abstract concepts, such as '논리적 결함' (logical flaws in an argument) or '민주주의의 구조적 결함' (structural flaws in democracy). At this level, you should also be aware of the Hanja roots (缺 and 陷) and how they relate to other words like '결석' (absence) or '함정' (trap). You can use this word to provide deep critiques of systems, literature, and human behavior.
At the C2 level, you use '결함' with the precision of a native speaker. You understand its weight in legal, scientific, and philosophical contexts. You can discuss the '제조물 책임법' (Product Liability Act) using '결함' as a central term. You are also familiar with idiomatic expressions and can use '결함' metaphorically in complex literary analyses. You can debate the ethics of '유전적 결함' (genetic defects) or the '실존적 결함' (existential flaws) of humanity. Your usage is nuanced, knowing exactly when '결함' is more appropriate than '흠' or '티'. You can write professional reports or academic papers where this word is used to identify systemic failures.

결함 30秒で

  • 결함 means a 'defect' or 'flaw'. It is a formal noun used for structural or inherent problems in machines, systems, or people.
  • It is different from '고장' (broken) because it refers to the cause/flaw, not just the state of not working.
  • Commonly paired with adjectives like '치명적인' (fatal) or '구조적인' (structural) and verbs like '발견되다' (to be found).
  • Essential for B2+ levels, especially in technical, legal, and literary contexts to describe why something is imperfect.

The Korean word 결함 (gyeol-ham) is a sophisticated noun primarily used to describe a defect, flaw, or deficiency in a system, object, or even a person's character. Derived from the Hanja 缺 (결 - lack/shortage) and 陷 (함 - fall/pit), it literally suggests a 'pit of lack' or a hole where something essential should be. In technical and industrial contexts, it is the standard term for a manufacturing defect that might lead to a product recall or safety concerns. Unlike the more common word '고장' (go-jang), which refers to a breakdown or a machine simply not working, 결함 refers to the underlying imperfection or error in design or construction that causes issues. It is a word that carries significant weight, often implying a need for correction or a failure to meet a specific standard of quality or perfection.

Technical Application
In engineering and software development, a '결함' is an error in the logic or material that prevents the system from operating as intended. It is the formal term for a 'bug' or 'flaw'.

신형 자동차의 엔진에서 치명적인 결함이 발견되어 전량 회수 조치가 내려졌습니다. (A fatal defect was discovered in the engine of the new car model, leading to a total recall.)

Beyond the physical realm, 결함 is frequently used in psychology and literature to discuss human nature. A '성격적 결함' (character flaw) refers to a deep-seated personality trait that leads a person to make mistakes or act unethically. This usage elevates the conversation from simple 'bad habits' to fundamental issues of the soul or psyche. When you hear this word on the news, it is usually related to consumer safety, legal disputes over product quality, or structural investigations of buildings. It is a B2-level word because it requires an understanding of abstract 'deficiency' rather than just concrete 'damage'.

그의 논리에는 몇 가지 논리적 결함이 있어서 설득력이 떨어진다. (His logic has several logical flaws, so it lacks persuasiveness.)

In the context of the modern Korean economy, the word is often paired with '리콜' (recall) and '보상' (compensation). Large corporations like Samsung or Hyundai are highly sensitive to '결함' reports because they imply a failure in the '품질 관리' (quality control) process. In legal terms, the presence of a '결함' is the basis for liability under the Product Liability Act (제조물 책임법). Therefore, when you use this word, you are often stepping into the realm of professional responsibility and systemic integrity.

Human Imperfection
While '단점' (shortcoming) is common in daily life, '결함' is used in dramatic or academic contexts to describe a 'tragic flaw' in a protagonist.

누구에게나 숨기고 싶은 내면의 결함이 있기 마련입니다. (Everyone is bound to have internal flaws they want to hide.)

To master this word, one must distinguish it from '부족' (lack) and '손상' (damage). '부족' is simply not having enough of something, like water or money. '손상' is external harm caused to something that was previously whole. '결함', however, implies that the object was 'born' or 'made' with an error. It is an intrinsic part of the object's current state that prevents it from being considered 'perfect' (완벽). In high-level Korean exams like TOPIK II, understanding the nuances between these terms is crucial for the reading and writing sections.

이 소프트웨어는 보안상의 결함을 해결하기 위해 업데이트가 필요합니다. (This software needs an update to resolve security flaws.)

Synonym Comparison
하자 (Haja) is often used in real estate or contracts, while 결함 (Gyeolham) is used for machines, systems, and character.

완벽해 보이는 계획에도 예상치 못한 결함이 존재할 수 있습니다. (Even in a plan that looks perfect, unexpected flaws can exist.)

Using 결함 correctly requires understanding its role as a formal noun. It usually functions as the subject or object of a sentence, frequently paired with verbs like '발견되다' (to be discovered), '보완하다' (to supplement/fix), or '수정하다' (to correct). Because it is a Hanja-based word, it fits naturally into formal writing, news reports, and professional discussions. When you want to sound more precise than using '문제' (problem), 결함 is your go-to word for describing structural or inherent issues.

Passive Usage
The most common pattern is '결함이 발견되다' (A defect is discovered). This shifts the focus to the existence of the flaw rather than who made it.

철저한 검사 과정에서 미세한 결함이 발견되었습니다. (A minute defect was discovered during the thorough inspection process.)

In interpersonal contexts, you might describe a person's character. However, use this carefully, as it is quite strong. Saying someone has a '성격적 결함' (character flaw) is more clinical and severe than saying they have '단점' (shortcomings). It suggests that the person's personality is fundamentally broken or dysfunctional in a specific way. In literature or film reviews, you will often see this word used to analyze the protagonist's '치명적인 결함' (fatal flaw/hamartia).

그 영화의 주인공은 오만한 성격이라는 치명적인 결함을 가지고 있다. (The protagonist of that movie has a fatal flaw: an arrogant personality.)

When discussing systems—whether biological, digital, or social—the word 결함 highlights a failure in the 'logic' of that system. For example, '유전적 결함' (genetic defect) is a medical term for hereditary conditions. '시스템 결함' (system defect) is used when a computer network or a government administrative process fails due to an internal error. In these cases, the word emphasizes that the system was not built correctly to handle certain situations.

Action Verbs
Common verbs: 결함을 고치다 (fix a defect), 결함을 인정하다 (admit a defect), 결함을 은폐하다 (cover up a defect).

제조사는 제품의 결함을 인정하고 공식 사과했습니다. (The manufacturer admitted the product's defect and issued an official apology.)

For advanced learners, it is useful to practice combining 결함 with particles like '-에도 불구하고' (despite) or '-로 인해' (due to). This allows you to create complex sentences that explain cause and effect in a professional tone. For instance, '제품의 결함으로 인해 발생한 손해' (damages caused by the product's defect). Using such structures will significantly improve your score on the TOPIK writing section.

사소한 결함에도 불구하고, 이 제품은 시장에서 큰 인기를 끌고 있다. (Despite minor defects, this product is gaining great popularity in the market.)

Compound Forms
결함품 (gyeol-ham-pum): A defective product. 결함률 (gyeol-ham-ryul): Defect rate.

공장의 자동화 시스템 도입 이후 결함률이 획기적으로 낮아졌습니다. (Since the introduction of the factory automation system, the defect rate has dropped significantly.)

You are most likely to encounter 결함 in formal environments. The evening news (뉴스) is a prime example. Anchors often report on '차량 결함' (vehicle defects) or '건축물 결함' (building defects) when safety issues arise. If a new apartment complex has cracks in the walls or leaking pipes shortly after construction, the media will investigate the '부실 공사' (poor construction) and the resulting '구조적 결함' (structural defects). This word signals that the problem is not just a one-time accident but something wrong with how the thing was built.

News Context
Reporters use '결함' to discuss public safety and corporate accountability. It is a keyword in investigative journalism.

오늘 뉴스에서는 스마트폰 배터리 결함에 대한 심층 보도가 있었습니다. (On today's news, there was an in-depth report on smartphone battery defects.)

In the workplace, particularly in manufacturing, engineering, or IT, 결함 is part of the daily vocabulary. During a '품질 회의' (quality meeting), engineers discuss '결함 분석' (defect analysis) to find out why a product failed a stress test. In software development, '결함 관리' (defect management) refers to the process of tracking bugs. If you work in a Korean office, knowing this word will help you understand reports about product quality and project status.

이번 업데이트의 주요 목적은 보안 결함을 수정하는 것입니다. (The main purpose of this update is to fix security flaws.)

Another common place is in medical or psychological settings. When doctors discuss congenital conditions, they might use '선천적 결함' (congenital defect). In counseling, a therapist might talk about a patient's '인지적 결함' (cognitive deficiency) when discussing learning disabilities or neurological issues. In these cases, the word is used objectively to describe a biological or mental state that deviates from the norm.

Medical Context
Used to describe physical or mental abnormalities that are inherent from birth or developed through disease.

이 아이는 심장에 선천적인 결함을 가지고 태어났습니다. (This child was born with a congenital heart defect.)

Finally, you will hear 결함 in academic lectures and literary criticism. Professors of literature might analyze a character's '도덕적 결함' (moral flaw) to explain their downfall in a tragedy. In philosophy, it might be used to discuss the '인간의 근원적 결함' (fundamental flaws of human beings). This usage is very abstract and high-level, showing how the word scales from a broken car part to the very nature of existence.

작가는 주인공의 성격적 결함을 통해 사회의 모순을 비판하고 있다. (The author criticizes the contradictions of society through the protagonist's character flaws.)

Academic Context
Used in humanities to discuss ethical or logical weaknesses in theories or characters.

이 이론은 전제 조건에서부터 심각한 결함을 안고 있습니다. (This theory has serious flaws starting from its prerequisites.)

One of the most common mistakes learners make is using 결함 when they should use '고장'. If your toaster stops working because it's old, that's '고장' (breakdown). If the toaster was designed with a wire that catches fire every time you use it, that's a '결함' (defect). Remember: '고장' is an event (it broke), whereas '결함' is a characteristic (it's flawed). Using '결함' for a simple broken item sounds overly dramatic or technical, like you're blaming the manufacturer for every minor issue.

Confusing 결함 with 고장
Wrong: 제 핸드폰이 결함났어요. (My phone has defectioned - Incorrect grammar and usage). Correct: 제 핸드폰에 결함이 있어요 (My phone has a defect) or 제 핸드폰이 고장 났어요 (My phone is broken).

단순한 고장과 제조상의 결함은 명확히 구분되어야 합니다. (Simple breakdowns and manufacturing defects must be clearly distinguished.)

Another mistake is confusing 결함 with '단점' (shortcoming/disadvantage). While they are synonyms, their registers are different. '단점' is used for general pros and cons. '결함' is used when that 'con' is so serious it's considered a failure or a dangerous lack. For example, if a car doesn't have a cup holder, that's a '단점'. If the brakes don't work, that's a '결함'. Using '결함' to describe a minor inconvenience makes the speaker sound like they are exaggerating or being unnecessarily harsh.

그의 성격에 단점은 많지만, 인간으로서 치명적인 결함이 있는 것은 아니다. (He has many shortcomings in his personality, but he doesn't have fatal flaws as a human being.)

Grammatically, learners often struggle with the verbs that follow 결함. Since it is a noun, you cannot say '결함하다'. You must use '결함이 있다' (to have a defect) or '결함이 발생하다' (a defect occurs). Some learners mistakenly try to turn it into a verb by adding '-하다', which is incorrect. If you want to say something is defective, you use the noun form with '있다' or use the compound noun '결함품' (defective product).

Grammatical Error
Wrong: 이 기계는 결함해요. (This machine defects - Incorrect). Correct: 이 기계는 결함이 있어요. (This machine has a defect.)

이 제품은 결함이 있는 것으로 판명되었습니다. (This product was found to have a defect.)

Lastly, be careful with the word '하자' (haja). While '하자' and 결함 are often interchangeable in legal contexts, '하자' is more common in real estate (housing) and sales contracts. If you are talking about a crack in your new apartment's wall, '하자' is the standard term. If you are talking about a logical error in a computer program, 결함 is better. Using the wrong one won't necessarily make you misunderstood, but using the right one shows a higher level of fluency.

아파트의 하자 보수를 요청했지만, 건설사는 구조적 결함이 아니라고 주장했다. (I requested repair for the apartment's blemishes, but the construction company argued it wasn't a structural defect.)

Contextual Choice
Use 결함 for functional and structural issues. Use 하자 for aesthetic or contractual issues in property.

시스템의 논리적 결함을 찾아내는 것이 프로그래머의 역할입니다. (Identifying logical flaws in the system is the programmer's role.)

To broaden your vocabulary, it's important to understand words that are similar to 결함 but used in slightly different contexts. The most common synonyms are '단점' (shortcoming), '약점' (weakness), '하자' (defect/blemish), and '흠' (flaw/scratch). Each of these carries a different weight and is used in specific situations. Mastering these differences will allow you to describe problems with much more precision.

결함 vs. 단점
'단점' is for general disadvantages (e.g., this phone is expensive). '결함' is for functional failures (e.g., this phone explodes).

이 계획의 가장 큰 단점은 비용이지만, 논리적 결함은 없습니다. (The biggest disadvantage of this plan is the cost, but there are no logical flaws.)

'약점' (weakness) is often used in the context of competition or vulnerability. A person might have a '결함' in their character, but a '약점' in a debate. '약점' is something an opponent can exploit. '결함' is something that makes the object or person inherently imperfect. In sports, you look for the opponent's '약점', not their '결함'.

상대 팀의 수비상 약점을 공략해야 승리할 수 있다. (We must attack the opponent team's defensive weakness to win.)

'하자' (Haja) is a very important word in legal and commercial settings. While 결함 is a general term for a defect, '하자' specifically refers to a defect that reduces the value or utility of a product or property in a way that warrants legal action. In a sales contract, you will see '하자 담보 책임' (liability for defects), not '결함 담보 책임'. '하자' is the word you use when you want to return a product to a store or complain about your new house.

결함 vs. 하자
결함 is technical/functional. 하자 is legal/commercial. They overlap, but 하자 is the 'lawyer's word'.

구입한 가구에 하자가 있어 교환을 요청했다. (I requested an exchange because the furniture I bought had a defect.)

Finally, '부족' (lack) and '결핍' (deficiency) are related but focus on the 'missing' part rather than the 'flawed' state. '결핍' is often used for nutrients (비타민 결핍) or affection (애정 결핍). 결함 implies the structure is there but it's wrong; '결핍' implies the structure is incomplete because something is missing. Understanding these subtle differences is what separates a B2 learner from a C1/C2 speaker.

현대인들은 종종 영양 결핍 문제에 직면하곤 한다. (Modern people often face the problem of nutritional deficiency.)

Summary Table
결함: Structural/Technical flaw. 하자: Legal/Commercial defect. 단점: General disadvantage. 약점: Exploitable weakness. 흠: Small blemish/scratch.

옥의 라는 말처럼, 완벽한 작품에도 작은 은 있을 수 있다. (As the saying 'a speck in the jade' goes, even perfect works can have small flaws.)

How Formal Is It?

豆知識

The character 缺 (결) is also used in '결석' (absence from school) and '결혼' (wait, no - that's 結!), so be careful! 缺 is about 'lacking'.

発音ガイド

UK /ɡjʌl.ɦam/
US /ɡjʌl.ɦam/
Equal stress on both syllables, as is standard in Korean.
韻が合う語
경험 (Experience) 위험 (Danger) 시험 (Exam) 보험 (Insurance) 수렴 (Convergence) 관람 (Viewing) 보람 (Worth) 사람 (Person)
よくある間違い
  • Pronouncing '결' as '걸' (geol). Make sure to include the 'y' glide.
  • Aspirating the 'ㄱ' too much so it sounds like 'ㅋ'. Keep it soft.
  • Merging the two syllables into one. Keep '결' and '함' distinct.

難易度

読解 4/5

Common in news and technical texts, but requires Hanja knowledge for deep understanding.

ライティング 4/5

Difficult to use correctly without sounding too technical or overly dramatic.

スピーキング 3/5

Easy to pronounce, but choosing the right synonym (하자, 단점) is tricky.

リスニング 3/5

Clear pronunciation, but can be confused with other '결' words in fast speech.

次に学ぶべきこと

前提知識

고장 (Broken) 문제 (Problem) 부족 (Lack) 단점 (Shortcoming) 잘못 (Mistake)

次に学ぶ

하자 (Legal defect) 보완 (Supplement) 은폐 (Concealment) 조치 (Measure/Action) 책임 (Responsibility)

上級

내재적 (Inherent) 근원적 (Fundamental) 방법론 (Methodology) 취약점 (Vulnerability)

知っておくべき文法

Noun + 이/가 + 발견되다 (To be discovered)

미세한 결함이 발견되었다.

Noun + 로 인해 (Due to...)

결함으로 인해 사고가 났다.

Noun + 을/를 + 보완하다 (To supplement...)

단점을 보완하고 결함을 수정했다.

Noun + 에도 불구하고 (Despite...)

결함에도 불구하고 잘 팔린다.

Noun + 은/는 + Noun + (이)라는 결함을 지니고 있다 (Has a flaw called...)

그는 오만함이라는 결함을 지니고 있다.

レベル別の例文

1

이 장난감에 결함이 있어요.

There is a defect in this toy.

Noun + 이/가 + 있어요 (There is/has).

2

결함이 있는 물건은 안 사요.

I don't buy things with defects.

결함이 있는 (which has a defect) modifies the noun.

3

이 차는 결함이 많아요.

This car has many defects.

많아요 (many/a lot).

4

결함을 고쳐주세요.

Please fix the defect.

Object + 을/를 + 고쳐주세요 (Please fix).

5

이것은 결함품입니다.

This is a defective product.

결함품 (defective product) + 입니다 (is).

6

결함 때문에 환불하고 싶어요.

I want a refund because of a defect.

Noun + 때문에 (Because of).

7

작은 결함이 하나 있어요.

There is one small defect.

작은 (small) modifies 결함.

8

결함이 발견되었습니다.

A defect was discovered.

발견되었습니다 (was discovered) is the formal past tense.

1

새로 산 가방에 결함이 발견되었어요.

A defect was found in the newly bought bag.

새로 산 (newly bought) modifies 가방.

2

제조상의 결함으로 리콜을 합니다.

A recall is being issued due to a manufacturing defect.

제조상의 (manufacturing-related) + 결함.

3

그 기계는 결함이 있어서 위험해요.

That machine is dangerous because it has a defect.

Noun + 이/가 + 있어서 (because there is...).

4

결함이 없는 제품을 원해요.

I want a product without defects.

결함이 없는 (which doesn't have defects).

5

기술적인 결함이 해결되었습니다.

The technical defect has been resolved.

기술적인 (technical) + 결함.

6

결함에 대해 사과드립니다.

We apologize for the defect.

Noun + 에 대해 (about/regarding).

7

이 소프트웨어는 결함이 자주 생겨요.

This software often has defects (bugs).

자주 (often) + 생겨요 (occur/happen).

8

결함을 확인하고 연락 주세요.

Please check for defects and contact me.

확인하고 (check and...).

1

제품의 구조적인 결함이 사고의 원인이었습니다.

A structural defect in the product was the cause of the accident.

구조적인 (structural) + 원인이었습니다 (was the cause).

2

그의 논리에는 치명적인 결함이 있다.

There is a fatal flaw in his logic.

치명적인 (fatal/critical) + 결함.

3

이 아파트는 설계상의 결함이 발견되어 보수 공사가 필요합니다.

A design defect was found in this apartment, so repair work is needed.

설계상의 (design-related) + 보수 공사 (repair work).

4

완벽해 보이지만 누구나 성격적 결함은 가지고 있다.

It looks perfect, but everyone has character flaws.

성격적 (personality-related) + 결함.

5

보안 결함을 수정하기 위해 패치를 배포했습니다.

A patch was released to fix the security flaw.

수정하기 위해 (in order to fix).

6

부품의 결함으로 인해 생산이 중단되었습니다.

Production was halted due to a defect in the parts.

Noun + 로 인해 (due to/because of).

7

이 보고서는 통계적인 결함이 있어 신뢰하기 어렵다.

This report has statistical flaws, so it is hard to trust.

신뢰하기 어렵다 (difficult to trust).

8

결함을 숨기는 것은 정직하지 못한 행동입니다.

Hiding defects is dishonest behavior.

Noun + 을/를 + 숨기는 것 (the act of hiding).

1

엔진의 결함을 사전에 발견하지 못한 점은 큰 실수였습니다.

Failing to discover the engine defect in advance was a big mistake.

사전에 (in advance) + 발견하지 못한 점 (the fact that it wasn't found).

2

정부는 해당 제품의 결함 조사에 착수했습니다.

The government has launched an investigation into the defects of the product.

조사에 착수하다 (to launch/start an investigation).

3

이 소설의 주인공은 오만함이라는 비극적 결함을 지니고 있다.

The protagonist of this novel possesses a tragic flaw called arrogance.

비극적 (tragic) + 지니고 있다 (to possess/hold).

4

시스템의 근본적인 결함을 해결하지 않으면 문제는 반복될 것입니다.

If the fundamental flaws of the system are not resolved, the problem will repeat.

근본적인 (fundamental) + 반복될 것이다 (will repeat).

5

소비자들은 결함 있는 제품에 대해 강력히 항의했다.

Consumers strongly protested against the defective products.

강력히 항의하다 (to strongly protest).

6

유전적 결함으로 인해 발병할 확률이 높습니다.

The probability of the disease occurring due to genetic defects is high.

발병할 확률 (probability of onset).

7

그의 제안은 현실적인 결함이 많아 채택되지 않았다.

His proposal was not adopted because it had many practical flaws.

채택되지 않았다 (was not adopted).

8

결함률을 낮추기 위해 품질 관리 시스템을 강화했습니다.

The quality control system was strengthened to lower the defect rate.

낮추기 위해 (in order to lower).

1

해당 법안은 인권 보호 측면에서 심각한 결함을 내포하고 있습니다.

The bill contains serious flaws in terms of protecting human rights.

내포하고 있다 (to contain/imply).

2

학계에서는 그의 연구 방법론에 존재하는 결함을 지적했다.

The academic community pointed out the flaws existing in his research methodology.

방법론 (methodology) + 지적했다 (pointed out).

3

기업의 윤리적 결함은 브랜드 이미지에 치명적인 타격을 준다.

A company's ethical flaws deal a fatal blow to its brand image.

치명적인 타격을 주다 (to deal a fatal blow).

4

이 이론은 인간 이성의 결함을 전제로 하고 있습니다.

This theory is predicated on the flaws of human reason.

전제로 하고 있다 (to be predicated on/assume).

5

건축물의 구조적 결함이 뒤늦게 밝혀져 파장이 일고 있습니다.

The structural defects of the building were revealed late, causing a stir.

파장이 일고 있다 (causing a stir/repercussions).

6

그는 자신의 내면적 결함을 극복하기 위해 끊임없이 노력했다.

He worked tirelessly to overcome his internal flaws.

극복하기 위해 (in order to overcome).

7

시장의 결함을 보완하기 위한 정부의 개입이 필요합니다.

Government intervention is needed to supplement the flaws of the market.

개입 (intervention) + 필요합니다 (is needed).

8

데이터의 결함으로 인해 분석 결과가 왜곡될 수 있습니다.

Analysis results may be distorted due to flaws in the data.

왜곡될 수 있다 (can be distorted).

1

민주주의 제도의 내재적 결함을 보완하려는 시도가 계속되고 있다.

Attempts to supplement the inherent flaws of the democratic system continue.

내재적 (inherent/intrinsic) + 보완하려는 시도 (attempt to supplement).

2

그의 철학은 인간 존재의 근원적 결함을 탐구하는 데 집중한다.

His philosophy focuses on exploring the fundamental flaws of human existence.

탐구하는 데 집중한다 (focuses on exploring).

3

검찰은 제조사가 결함을 인지하고도 은폐했는지 여부를 조사 중이다.

The prosecution is investigating whether the manufacturer concealed the defect despite knowing about it.

인지하고도 (even after recognizing) + 은폐했는지 여부 (whether it was concealed).

4

이 작품은 문명 사회의 도덕적 결함을 예리하게 파헤치고 있다.

This work sharply digs into the moral flaws of civilized society.

예리하게 파헤치다 (to sharply dig into/analyze).

5

인지적 결함이 사회적 상호작용에 미치는 영향은 지대하다.

The impact of cognitive deficiencies on social interaction is profound.

영향은 지대하다 (the impact is profound).

6

완벽주의는 사소한 결함조차 용납하지 못하는 심리적 기제다.

Perfectionism is a psychological mechanism that cannot tolerate even minor flaws.

용납하지 못하는 (unable to tolerate).

7

논문의 논리적 결함을 보완하지 않으면 게재가 불가능합니다.

Publication is impossible unless the logical flaws in the paper are supplemented.

게재가 불가능하다 (publication is impossible).

8

기술의 급격한 발전은 새로운 형태의 보안 결함을 야기하고 있다.

The rapid development of technology is causing new forms of security flaws.

야기하고 있다 (is causing/bringing about).

類義語

단점 약점 미비점 하자

反対語

장점 완전

よく使う組み合わせ

치명적인 결함
구조적 결함
결함이 발견되다
결함을 보완하다
성격적 결함
제조상 결함
유전적 결함
결함을 수정하다
결함을 은폐하다
결함이 있다

よく使うフレーズ

결함품

— A defective product. Used in manufacturing and retail.

결함품은 전량 폐기 처분되었습니다.

결함률

— Defect rate. Used to measure quality control efficiency.

이번 달 결함률이 지난달보다 줄어들었다.

선천적 결함

— Congenital defect. Refers to issues present from birth.

그는 선천적 결함을 극복하고 운동선수가 되었다.

논리적 결함

— Logical flaw. Refers to errors in an argument or theory.

네 주장은 논리적 결함이 너무 많아.

시스템 결함

— System defect. Refers to failures in a complex network.

시스템 결함으로 인해 서버가 다운되었습니다.

설계 결함

— Design flaw. A mistake made during the planning stage.

이 건물은 설계 결함 때문에 층간 소음이 심하다.

보안 결함

— Security flaw. A vulnerability in a protected system.

해커들이 보안 결함을 이용해 정보를 훔쳤다.

치명적 결함

— Critical/Fatal flaw. A defect that makes something unusable.

이 비행기는 치명적 결함 때문에 이륙할 수 없다.

도덕적 결함

— Moral flaw. A weakness in a person's ethical standards.

정치인에게 도덕적 결함은 큰 약점이 된다.

기능적 결함

— Functional defect. A flaw in how something performs.

이 카메라는 기능적 결함이 있어 초점이 안 맞는다.

よく混同される語

결함 vs 고장

Gojang is the event of breaking; Gyeolham is the inherent flaw that causes it.

결함 vs 실수

Silsu is a human mistake in action; Gyeolham is a defect in the object or system.

결함 vs 결석

Sounds similar but means absence from school/work.

慣用句と表現

"옥의 티"

— A tiny flaw in something otherwise perfect. Equivalent to 'a fly in the ointment'.

그 영화는 다 좋았는데 결말이 옥의 티였다.

Neutral
"결함 투성이"

— Full of defects/flaws. Used when something is very poorly made.

이 보고서는 결함 투성이라 다시 써야 한다.

Informal
"티 하나 없다"

— To be spotless or flawless. Literally 'not even one speck'.

그녀의 피부는 티 하나 없이 깨끗하다.

Neutral
"흠 잡을 데 없다"

— To be perfect or irreproachable. Literally 'nowhere to catch a flaw'.

그의 연기는 흠 잡을 데 없이 완벽했다.

Neutral
"밑 빠진 독에 물 붓기"

— Pouring water into a bottomless pot. Used for a structural defect in a plan that makes effort useless.

결함을 고치지 않고 돈만 쓰는 건 밑 빠진 독에 물 붓기다.

Informal
"사상누각"

— A house built on sand. Refers to something with a fatal structural defect in its foundation.

기초가 없는 계획은 사상누각일 뿐이다.

Literary
"완벽주의의 덫"

— The trap of perfectionism. Obsessing over minor defects.

그는 완벽주의의 덫에 걸려 일을 끝내지 못한다.

Neutral
"치명적 약점"

— A fatal weakness. Often used interchangeably with fatal flaw in character.

그의 자만심은 그에게 치명적 약점이 되었다.

Neutral
"옥에도 티가 있다"

— Even jade has specks. Meaning nothing is truly perfect.

너무 자책하지 마, 옥에도 티가 있는 법이니까.

Literary
"흠집을 내다"

— To damage or tarnish someone's reputation or a perfect object.

그 스캔들은 그의 경력에 큰 흠집을 냈다.

Neutral

間違えやすい

결함 vs 하자

Both mean defect.

Haja is legal/real estate; Gyeolham is technical/structural. If your wall is cracked, it's Haja. If your engine logic is wrong, it's Gyeolham.

이 아파트의 하자를 고쳐주세요.

결함 vs 단점

Both refer to something not good.

Danjeom is a disadvantage (subjective/comparative); Gyeolham is a failure to meet standards (objective/structural).

그의 단점은 게으름이다.

결함 vs 약점

Both mean weakness.

Yakjeom is a vulnerability that can be attacked; Gyeolham is an internal flaw.

그의 약점은 가족이다.

결함 vs 오류

Both mean something is wrong.

Oryu is an error in logic or data; Gyeolham is a physical or structural defect.

계산 과정에 오류가 있다.

결함 vs 부족

Both imply 'not enough'.

Bujok is a lack of quantity; Gyeolham is a lack of quality or structural integrity.

비타민 부족으로 피곤하다.

文型パターン

A2

이 [Noun]에 결함이 있어요.

이 카메라에 결함이 있어요.

B1

[Noun]의 결함으로 인해 [Result].

부품의 결함으로 인해 기계가 멈췄어요.

B2

[Adjective] 결함이 발견되어 [Action].

치명적인 결함이 발견되어 전량 회수했습니다.

B2

결함을 보완한 [Noun].

기존의 결함을 보완한 신제품입니다.

C1

[Noun]은/는 [Noun]적 결함을 내포하고 있다.

이 법안은 구조적 결함을 내포하고 있다.

C1

결함을 은폐하려는 시도.

제조사는 결함을 은폐하려 했다.

C2

근원적 결함을 탐구하다.

인간 존재의 근원적 결함을 탐구하다.

C2

결함률을 획기적으로 낮추다.

새 시스템은 결함률을 획기적으로 낮췄다.

語族

名詞

결함품 (Defective product)
결함률 (Defect rate)
무결점 (Zero defects)
결핍 (Deficiency)

動詞

결함이 발생하다 (A defect occurs)
결함을 보완하다 (To supplement/fix a flaw)

形容詞

결함이 있는 (Defective)
무결한 (Flawless)

関連

하자 (Legal defect)
오류 (Error)
단점 (Shortcoming)
약점 (Weakness)
부족 (Lack)

使い方

frequency

High in news, business, and technical fields. Low in casual daily chatter.

よくある間違い
  • 결함하다 결함이 있다

    결함 is a noun and cannot be used directly as a verb with -하다.

  • 제 핸드폰이 결함났어요. 제 핸드폰이 고장 났어요.

    Use 고장 for the act of breaking. Use 결함 for the reason it is flawed.

  • 결함을 먹다 결함을 발견하다

    You don't 'eat' or 'do' a defect; you 'find' it or 'have' it.

  • 사소한 결함 때문에 헤어졌다. 사소한 단점 때문에 헤어졌다.

    Using 결함 for a relationship breakup sounds too clinical. Use 단점 (shortcoming).

  • 이 사과는 결함이 있어요. 이 사과는 흠이 있어요.

    For fruit or small physical marks, 흠 (blemish) or 상처 (wound/bruise) is more natural.

ヒント

Technical Precision

In a professional setting, use 결함 to sound more precise than using the generic word '문제' (problem).

Academic Tone

When writing an essay, use '결함을 내포하다' (to contain a flaw) to elevate your style.

Synonym Choice

Choose '하자' for legal issues and '결함' for technical issues to sound like a native speaker.

Recall News

When you hear '리콜' (recall) on Korean news, listen for '결함' to understand what was wrong.

Character Analysis

Use '성격적 결함' when analyzing characters in Korean literature or dramas.

Noun Only

Never add -하다 to 결함. Always use it as a noun with 이/가 있다/발견되다.

Safety Warning

If a sign says '결함 주의', it means there is a dangerous defect you should watch out for.

Quality Control

If you work in a Korean factory, '결함률' (defect rate) is a metric you will see every day.

Debating

Use '논리적 결함' to point out a mistake in an opponent's argument without being rude.

Perfect is Rare

Remember '옥의 티' (speck in the jade) to describe a small flaw in something great.

暗記しよう

記憶術

Think of 'Gyeol' (Lack) and 'Ham' (Pit). A 'Lack-Pit' is a hole in your product that makes it fall apart. Gyeol-Ham!

視覚的連想

Imagine a shiny new car with a giant hole (pit) in the middle of the engine. That hole is the '결함'.

Word Web

제조 (Manufacturing) 리콜 (Recall) 성격 (Character) 구조 (Structure) 보완 (Supplement) 수정 (Correction) 하자 (Blemish) 사고 (Accident)

チャレンジ

Try to find three items in your house that have a small '결함' (defect) and describe them in Korean using '결함이 있어요'.

語源

Sino-Korean word (Hanja). 缺陷. 缺 (결) means 'lack' or 'shortage'. 陷 (함) means 'to fall into' or 'pit'.

元の意味: A hole or a pit caused by a lack of material or structure.

Sino-Korean (Hanja-based)

文化的な背景

Avoid using '결함' to describe a person's physical appearance or disability, as it can sound dehumanizing. Use '장애' (disability) or more neutral terms.

While English speakers might say 'it has a bug' or 'it's glitchy', Koreans use '결함' to sound more serious and formal.

The 'Sampoong Department Store collapse' is often cited as a result of structural 결함. K-Drama 'It's Okay to Not Be Okay' explores characters with psychological 결함. The movie 'Parasite' subtly highlights the social 결함 of class disparity.

実生活で練習する

実際の使用場面

Product Recall

  • 결함이 발견되다
  • 리콜을 실시하다
  • 무상 수리
  • 전량 회수

Software Development

  • 버그/결함 수정
  • 보안 결함
  • 패치 업데이트
  • 시스템 오류

Character Analysis

  • 성격적 결함
  • 인간적 결함
  • 치명적 결함
  • 내면의 상처

Construction/Real Estate

  • 구조적 결함
  • 부실 공사
  • 하자 보수
  • 안전 진단

Scientific Research

  • 논리적 결함
  • 방법론적 결함
  • 데이터 왜곡
  • 연구 윤리

会話のきっかけ

"최근에 산 물건 중에 결함이 있었던 적이 있나요?"

"완벽한 사람보다 약간의 결함이 있는 사람이 더 매력적이라고 생각하세요?"

"새로 출시된 스마트폰의 결함 소식 들으셨어요?"

"성격적 결함을 고치는 것이 가능하다고 생각하시나요?"

"제품에 결함이 있을 때 가장 먼저 어떻게 대처하시나요?"

日記のテーマ

내가 가진 가장 큰 성격적 결함은 무엇이며, 그것을 어떻게 보완할 수 있을까?

사회 시스템의 구조적 결함 중 하나를 선택해 그 해결책을 써보세요.

기술의 발전이 가져온 새로운 형태의 결함(예: 보안 문제)에 대해 생각해보세요.

완벽함이란 무엇이며, 왜 우리는 작은 결함에도 민감하게 반응할까?

최근 뉴스에서 본 제품 결함 사례와 그로 인한 사회적 파장에 대해 기록해보세요.

よくある質問

10 問

Yes, but it's very strong. '성격적 결함' means a deep character flaw. For daily talk, use '단점'.

고장 is when a machine stops working. 결함 is the reason it was made poorly. You say '고장 났다' but '결함이 있다'.

Yes, it is the formal word for a bug. You can say '소프트웨어 결함'.

Yes, it always implies something is wrong or missing.

You use the word '무결점' (mu-gyeol-jeom).

No. 결함 is a noun. Use '결함이 있어요' or '결함이 발생했어요'.

Yes, especially in TOPIK II (Intermediate/Advanced) reading and writing.

It means 'manufacturing defect'. It's a key term for product recalls.

Yes, '논리적 결함' means a flaw in an argument or theory.

It is 缺陷 (缺 - lack, 陷 - pit).

自分をテスト 200 問

writing

Write a sentence using '결함' to describe a problem with a smartphone.

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

正解! おしい! 正解:
writing

Explain why a company might recall a product using the word '결함'.

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

正解! おしい! 正解:
writing

Describe a character flaw of a person you know (or a fictional character) using '성격적 결함'.

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

正解! おしい! 正解:
writing

Write a formal announcement about a software update to fix security flaws.

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

正解! おしい! 正解:
writing

Discuss the impact of structural defects in a building.

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writing

Compare '결함' and '단점' in two sentences.

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writing

Write a sentence using the idiom '옥의 티'.

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writing

How would you tell a repairman about a defect in your washing machine?

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writing

Write a sentence about a logical flaw in an argument.

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writing

Describe a congenital defect in a medical context.

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writing

Write a sentence about a company hiding a defect.

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writing

Discuss the importance of quality control to reduce defect rates.

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writing

Write a sentence about a flaw in a social system.

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writing

Translate: 'The fatal flaw of the protagonist led to his downfall.'

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writing

Write a sentence about a defect in a car engine.

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writing

Describe a perfect thing using '무결점'.

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writing

Write a sentence about a defect in a toy.

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writing

Explain a 'design flaw' in an apartment.

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writing

Write a sentence about a defect found during inspection.

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正解! おしい! 正解:
writing

Describe human nature using '근원적 결함'.

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正解! おしい! 正解:
speaking

Say 'There is a defect in this product' in formal Korean.

Read this aloud:

正解! おしい! 正解:
speaking

Describe a character flaw using '성격적 결함'.

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正解! おしい! 正解:
speaking

Ask a repairman: 'Did you find a defect?'

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正解! おしい! 正解:
speaking

Say 'The defect rate is high' in a business meeting.

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正解! おしい! 正解:
speaking

Say 'I want to fix the flaw' in formal Korean.

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正解! おしい! 正解:
speaking

Explain that a car was recalled due to an engine defect.

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正解! おしい! 正解:
speaking

Point out a logical flaw in a debate: 'There is a logical flaw in your argument.'

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正解! おしい! 正解:
speaking

Say 'Nobody is perfect' using the word 결함.

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正解! おしい! 正解:
speaking

Say 'This update fixes security flaws.'

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正解! おしい! 正解:
speaking

Say 'A structural defect was found in the building.'

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正解! おしい! 正解:
speaking

Say 'It was a defective product.'

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正解! おしい! 正解:
speaking

Tell someone to check for defects: 'Please check for defects thoroughly.'

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正解! おしい! 正解:
speaking

Say 'The defect was hidden.'

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正解! おしい! 正解:
speaking

Say 'He has a fatal flaw.'

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正解! おしい! 正解:
speaking

Say 'We apologize for the defect.'

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正解! おしい! 正解:
speaking

Say 'A defect occurred in the system.'

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正解! おしい! 正解:
speaking

Say 'The defect was congenital.'

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正解! おしい! 正解:
speaking

Say 'It is a small flaw, like a speck in jade.'

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正解! おしい! 正解:
speaking

Say 'The defect rate decreased.'

Read this aloud:

正解! おしい! 正解:
speaking

Say 'There is a defect in the design.'

Read this aloud:

正解! おしい! 正解:
listening

Listen and write the keyword: '이 기계는 제조상 결함이 발견되었습니다.'

正解! おしい! 正解:
正解! おしい! 正解:
listening

Listen and identify the type of defect: '그의 성격적 결함이 문제입니다.'

正解! おしい! 正解:
正解! おしい! 正解:
listening

Listen and identify the action: '결함을 보완하기 위해 노력하겠습니다.'

正解! おしい! 正解:
正解! おしい! 正解:
listening

Listen and identify the cause of recall: '브레이크 결함으로 리콜을 실시합니다.'

正解! おしい! 正解:
正解! おしい! 正解:
listening

Listen and identify the adjective: '치명적인 결함이 발견되어 폐기했습니다.'

正解! おしい! 正解:
正解! おしい! 正解:
listening

Listen and identify the location: '건물의 구조적 결함이 심각합니다.'

正解! おしい! 正解:
正解! おしい! 正解:
listening

Listen and write the compound word: '결함품은 판매할 수 없습니다.'

正解! おしい! 正解:
正解! おしい! 正解:
listening

Listen and identify the statistics: '결함률이 작년보다 두 배 늘었습니다.'

正解! おしい! 正解:
正解! おしい! 正解:
listening

Listen and identify the context: '보안 결함을 해결하기 위해 패치를 배포합니다.'

正解! おしい! 正解:
正解! おしい! 正解:
listening

Listen and identify the medical term: '선천적 결함이 있는 환자입니다.'

正解! おしい! 正解:
正解! おしい! 正解:
listening

Listen and identify the Hanja word for blemish: '옥의 티 같은 흠이 있네요.'

正解! おしい! 正解:
正解! おしい! 正解:
listening

Listen and identify the legal term: '하자가 발견되어 계약을 취소합니다.'

正解! おしい! 正解:
正解! おしい! 正解:
listening

Listen and identify the abstract concept: '논리적 결함이 너무 많습니다.'

正解! おしい! 正解:
正解! おしい! 正解:
listening

Listen and identify the result: '결함으로 인해 사고가 발생했습니다.'

正解! おしい! 正解:
正解! おしい! 正解:
listening

Listen and identify the concealment: '회사는 결함을 고의로 은폐했습니다.'

正解! おしい! 正解:
正解! おしい! 正解:

/ 200 correct

Perfect score!

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