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B1 noun #1,500 가장 일반적인 12분 분량

역할

yeokhal 상위 1,500

연습하기 예시 노트와 팁 역할 30초 만에

설명 역할 in your Level:

When you are just starting to learn Korean at the A1 level, building a strong foundation of vocabulary is absolutely essential for your future success. The word we are focusing on here is a noun that translates to 'role' or 'part' in English. Although it might seem like a slightly advanced concept for a complete beginner, understanding how this word functions in basic sentences will give you a significant advantage. At this stage, you do not need to worry about complex grammatical structures or highly nuanced societal implications. Instead, focus on recognizing the word when you hear it in simple contexts, such as family dynamics or basic classroom settings. For instance, you might hear someone talking about the role of a mother, the role of a teacher, or the role of a student. These everyday situations provide the perfect backdrop for internalizing the sound and basic meaning of the word. As you practice, pay close attention to the pronunciation. The first syllable ends with a consonant sound that links smoothly to the following syllable, creating a distinct rhythm that is characteristic of the Korean language. Listening to native speakers and repeating after them is one of the most effective ways to master this. Furthermore, try to associate the word with a mental image of someone performing a specific task or duty. This visual connection will help cement the vocabulary in your long-term memory. Remember that language learning is a marathon, not a sprint. Every new word you acquire is a building block that brings you one step closer to fluency. By familiarizing yourself with this term now, you are laying the groundwork for more advanced conversations later on. Do not be discouraged if you cannot use it perfectly right away; recognition is the first and most important step. Continue to expose yourself to beginner-friendly Korean media, such as children's books, simple podcasts, and introductory language courses. Over time, you will start to notice this word popping up more frequently, and its meaning will become second nature to you. Keep practicing, stay patient with yourself, and celebrate the small victories along your language learning journey. Your dedication will undoubtedly pay off as you progress to higher proficiency levels.

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As you progress to the A2 level, your ability to construct simple sentences and express basic ideas in Korean is growing rapidly. Now that you are familiar with the basic meaning of this noun, which translates to 'role' or 'part', it is time to start using it actively in your own conversations. At this stage, the key is to learn how to combine this noun with basic verbs to describe what people do in their daily lives. The most common and straightforward verb to use is '하다', which means 'to do'. By attaching the object particle '을/를' to the noun and adding '하다', you can easily state that someone is performing a specific function. For example, you can talk about the part you play in a group project at school, or the duties you handle at a part-time job. You can also use it to describe the characters in a movie or a drama you recently watched. This is a fantastic way to practice your speaking skills while discussing topics you enjoy. Additionally, you can start using simple adjectives to describe the nature of the role, such as '좋은' (good) or '큰' (big). This adds a layer of detail to your sentences and makes your Korean sound more natural. As you practice, try writing short diary entries or dialogues incorporating this vocabulary. Imagine you are introducing yourself to a new team and explaining what you will be doing. This kind of practical application is invaluable for solidifying your understanding. Don't be afraid to make mistakes; they are a natural part of the learning process. Whenever you encounter this word in reading materials or listening exercises, pay attention to the surrounding words and how the sentence is structured. This will give you clues about how native speakers use it naturally. By actively incorporating this word into your A2 repertoire, you are bridging the gap between basic vocabulary recognition and practical, everyday communication. Keep up the great work, and continue to challenge yourself with new sentence patterns and vocabulary combinations. Your confidence will grow with every successful interaction.

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Reaching the B1 level marks a significant milestone in your Korean language journey. You are now transitioning from basic survival communication to expressing more complex thoughts and participating in detailed conversations. At this intermediate stage, mastering the nuances of our target vocabulary word, which means 'role' or 'part', is crucial. You already know how to use it with the basic verb '하다', but now it is time to expand your repertoire of collocations. To sound more natural and proficient, you should start using verbs like '맡다' (to take on/be assigned) and '담당하다' (to be in charge of). These verbs convey a stronger sense of responsibility and specific assignment, making them perfect for discussing professional environments, academic projects, or organizational structures. For instance, you can confidently explain your specific duties within a company or describe the function of a particular department. Furthermore, you should begin to explore the figurative uses of this word. It is not just about human jobs; it can also describe the function of inanimate objects or abstract concepts. You can discuss the part that technology plays in modern society, or the function of a specific ingredient in a traditional Korean recipe. This level of abstraction requires a deeper understanding of sentence structure and vocabulary pairing. Practice constructing complex sentences using conjunctions and relative clauses to provide more context and detail. For example, instead of just saying 'My role is important', you can say 'The role I have taken on in this project is crucial for our success'. This demonstrates a higher level of grammatical control and vocabulary mastery. Engage with intermediate-level materials such as news articles, opinion pieces, and professional interviews to see how native speakers employ this word in various contexts. Pay close attention to the adjectives and adverbs that frequently accompany it. By refining your usage of this essential noun and its associated verbs, you will significantly enhance your ability to articulate sophisticated ideas and engage in meaningful discussions on a wide range of topics. Keep pushing your boundaries and exploring the richness of the Korean language.

At the B2 level, you are an upper-intermediate learner capable of understanding the main ideas of complex text and interacting with a degree of fluency and spontaneity. Your usage of vocabulary must reflect this advanced comprehension. The word for 'role' or 'part' is no longer just a tool for describing basic jobs; it becomes a key concept for analyzing societal structures, discussing abstract theories, and engaging in nuanced debates. You should be comfortable using passive structures, such as '역할이 주어지다' (a role is given), to shift the focus from the actor to the action itself. This is particularly useful in formal writing and academic discussions. Furthermore, you must master the use of advanced descriptive modifiers. Instead of simply saying a role is 'important', you should use words like '결정적인' (decisive), '핵심적인' (core), or '부수적인' (secondary) to precisely convey the weight and significance of the function being discussed. You will frequently encounter this word in news reports analyzing political dynamics, economic policies, and social issues. For example, you might read about the role of the central bank in controlling inflation, or the role of the media in shaping public opinion. To truly excel at this level, you need to practice incorporating this vocabulary into your own argumentative writing and persuasive speaking. When presenting an opinion, use this word to clearly define the responsibilities of different stakeholders. Discuss the expected duties of the government versus the duties of individual citizens. This demonstrates not only linguistic proficiency but also cultural and societal awareness. Additionally, start paying attention to synonyms and related terms, such as '구실' or '몫', and understand when to use them instead of the main target word to add variety and precision to your language. Engage with native-level content, such as documentaries, debates, and in-depth articles, to observe how this concept is manipulated in high-level discourse. By mastering the advanced applications of this essential noun, you will be well-equipped to tackle complex subjects and express your thoughts with clarity, authority, and sophistication.

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Achieving C1 proficiency means you can express ideas fluently and spontaneously without much obvious searching for expressions. You can use language flexibly and effectively for social, academic, and professional purposes. At this advanced stage, your understanding of the word for 'role' or 'part' must be comprehensive and highly nuanced. You are expected to navigate complex collocations, idiomatic expressions, and subtle shades of meaning with ease. You should effortlessly distinguish between this word and its close synonyms, such as '구실', '몫', and '직분', choosing the exact right term based on the specific context, tone, and desired impact of your message. In professional settings, you should be able to negotiate responsibilities, delegate tasks, and evaluate performance using sophisticated phrasing centered around this concept. In academic contexts, you will use it to dissect complex theories, analyze historical events, and discuss the intricate functions of various systems, whether biological, sociological, or mechanical. You must be comfortable reading and producing dense, formal texts where this word is used to structure arguments and define parameters. For instance, you might write a research paper exploring the changing roles of traditional institutions in a globalized world. Your sentences should be complex, employing advanced grammar structures to link ideas seamlessly. Furthermore, you should be attuned to the cultural connotations embedded in the concept of duty and position within Korean society. Understand how Confucian values historically shaped expectations and how those expectations are evolving in contemporary Korea. This cultural literacy allows you to read between the lines and grasp the unspoken implications in literature, political speeches, and social commentary. To maintain and refine your C1 level, immerse yourself in challenging native materials, such as academic journals, literary fiction, and high-level professional discourse. Actively seek out opportunities to discuss abstract and complex topics with native speakers, paying close attention to their vocabulary choices and rhetorical strategies. By mastering the intricacies of this fundamental concept, you demonstrate a profound command of the Korean language and a deep understanding of the culture it reflects.

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At the C2 level, you possess a near-native command of the Korean language. You can understand with ease virtually everything heard or read, and you can summarize information from different spoken and written sources, reconstructing arguments and accounts in a coherent presentation. Your use of the word for 'role' or 'part' is instinctual, precise, and effortlessly integrated into the most complex and abstract discourse. You are not merely using the word; you are manipulating it to convey subtle irony, profound philosophical insights, or sharp social critique. You understand its etymological roots and how its historical usage informs its modern applications. In literary contexts, you can analyze how an author uses the concept of a character's role to explore themes of destiny, societal constraints, or existential purpose. In highly specialized professional or academic fields, you use this vocabulary to articulate intricate functional relationships within complex systems, whether in advanced physics, macroeconomics, or complex legal frameworks. You are completely fluent in all idiomatic and figurative extensions of the word, and you can even play with its meaning to create rhetorical effect. You recognize when a speaker is using the term to subtly shift blame, claim authority, or redefine boundaries. Your writing at this level is characterized by a sophisticated and varied vocabulary, where this target word is used alongside a rich array of synonyms and related concepts to avoid repetition and enhance clarity. You can effortlessly switch between registers, using highly formal and respectful language when discussing the solemn duties of a public official, and more casual, colloquial phrasing when joking about the dynamics within a group of friends. To sustain this level of mastery, you must continuously engage with the most challenging and diverse forms of Korean media, from classical literature and philosophical treatises to cutting-edge scientific papers and avant-garde cultural critiques. Your understanding of this single word reflects your comprehensive mastery of the entire linguistic and cultural landscape of Korea, allowing you to communicate with absolute precision, elegance, and profound depth.

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연습하기 예시 노트와 팁

역할 30초 만에

Means 'role', 'part', or 'function'.
Used for people, objects, and abstract concepts.
Commonly paired with verbs 하다 and 맡다.
Essential for discussing duties and teamwork.

Understanding the meaning of this vocabulary word is crucial for anyone looking to achieve a solid intermediate level of proficiency in the Korean language. The word primarily translates to 'role' or 'part' in English, and it is used to describe the specific function, duty, or position that a person or a thing holds within a particular situation, organization, or activity. When you think about the dynamics of a team, a family, or even a mechanical system, every individual component has a specific task it must perform to ensure the smooth operation of the whole. This concept is deeply embedded in Korean culture, which places a strong emphasis on social harmony, collective responsibility, and understanding one's place within a group.

Literal Meaning: The literal translation refers to the assigned duty or the part one plays in a play or real-life scenario.

To truly grasp the nuance, you must look beyond the simple dictionary definition and consider the contexts in which native speakers employ this term. It is not just about a job title; it is about the expectations and responsibilities that come with that title.

그는 팀에서 중요한 역할을 맡고 있습니다.

For example, in a theatrical production, an actor is assigned a character to portray. The way they bring that character to life, the lines they speak, and the actions they perform constitute their part in the play. Similarly, in a corporate environment, an employee is hired to fulfill a specific set of duties. Their contribution to the company's goals is their part.

Figurative Usage: It can also refer to the function of an inanimate object, like the purpose of a specific ingredient in a recipe.

The versatility of this word allows it to be applied to both animate and inanimate subjects. You can discuss the part a politician plays in shaping public policy, or you can discuss the part that a particular vitamin plays in maintaining human health.

비타민 C는 면역력 강화에 큰 역할을 합니다.

This broad applicability makes it an indispensable tool in your vocabulary arsenal. As you continue to study, you will notice that mastering this term will significantly enhance your ability to articulate complex ideas related to function, duty, and contribution.

Hanja Origin: The word is derived from Chinese characters: 役 (service/duty) and 割 (to divide/assign).

Understanding the etymology can also provide valuable insights. The combination of characters representing 'duty' and 'assignment' perfectly encapsulates the core meaning. It implies that a larger task or responsibility has been divided, and a specific portion has been assigned to an individual or entity.

부모의 역할은 아이를 올바르게 이끄는 것입니다.

This historical context enriches your comprehension and helps you appreciate the depth of the Korean language. Whether you are reading a news article, watching a drama, or engaging in a conversation with a native speaker, recognizing and understanding this word will open up new avenues of communication.

이 기계에서 이 부품의 역할이 무엇입니까?

By internalizing the various dimensions of its meaning, from the literal assignment of duties to the figurative functions of objects, you will be well-equipped to use it accurately and naturally in your own speech and writing.

사회에서 언론의 역할은 진실을 알리는 것입니다.

Take the time to review the examples provided and try to create your own sentences. The more you practice, the more intuitive it will become. Ultimately, mastering this concept is a significant milestone on your journey to Korean fluency, enabling you to express sophisticated thoughts about how the world works and how different elements interact within it.

Knowing the definition of a word is only the first step; knowing how to use it correctly in a sentence is what truly demonstrates language proficiency. When it comes to this particular noun, its usage is heavily dependent on the verbs it pairs with. These verb pairings, known as collocations, are the secret to sounding like a native speaker.

Collocation 1: 하다: The most basic and common verb to use is '하다' (to do), meaning 'to play a part' or 'to perform a function'.

If you want to say that someone or something is playing a part, you simply attach the object particle '을/를' to the noun and follow it with '하다'. This structure is incredibly versatile and can be used in almost any context, from casual conversations to formal presentations.

그는 회의에서 중재자 역할을 했습니다.

However, if you want to elevate your Korean and sound more professional, you should learn the more specific verbs that are frequently associated with this noun.

Collocation 2: 맡다: The verb '맡다' means 'to take on' or 'to be assigned'. This is used when a specific duty is given to someone.

For instance, if you are cast in a play, you 'take on' a character. If you are promoted at work, you 'take on' a new set of responsibilities. This verb emphasizes the acceptance or assignment of the duty.

이번 프로젝트에서 리더 역할을 맡았습니다.

Another excellent verb to know is '담당하다', which means 'to be in charge of'. This is slightly more formal than '맡다' and is often used in business or administrative contexts. When you want to describe exactly what someone is responsible for within an organization, this is the verb to choose.

저는 마케팅 부서에서 홍보 역할을 담당하고 있습니다.

Passive Usage: 주어지다: To express that a duty has been given to someone, use the passive verb '주어지다' (to be given).

In this case, the noun becomes the subject of the sentence, so you must use the subject particle '이/가'. This structure is useful when you want to focus on the assignment itself rather than the person who assigned it.

저에게 새로운 역할이 주어졌습니다.

Furthermore, you can use adjectives to describe the nature of the duty. Words like '중요한' (important), '핵심적인' (core/key), or '큰' (big/major) are frequently placed before the noun to emphasize its significance.

교육은 사회 발전에 핵심적인 역할을 수행합니다.

By mastering these collocations and sentence structures, you will be able to discuss responsibilities, functions, and contributions with clarity and precision. Practice writing sentences using each of these verbs to solidify your understanding and improve your active vocabulary.

One of the most fascinating aspects of learning a new language is discovering how certain words permeate various facets of daily life and culture. This particular noun is incredibly ubiquitous in Korean society, and you will encounter it in a wide array of contexts, from the most intimate family settings to the highest levels of professional and political discourse.

In the Workplace: Corporate culture in Korea is highly structured, and defining everyone's specific duties is paramount for efficiency and harmony.

If you work in a Korean company or interact with Korean business professionals, you will hear this word constantly. During meetings, managers will outline the specific duties of each team member. Job descriptions, performance reviews, and project proposals all rely heavily on this vocabulary to clarify expectations and evaluate contributions.

각자의 역할을 명확히 하는 것이 중요합니다.

Beyond the office, the entertainment industry is another major domain where this word is inescapable.

In Entertainment: Actors, directors, and critics use this term to discuss the characters in movies, dramas, and theatrical plays.

When watching interviews with your favorite Korean actors, you will frequently hear them discussing the character they chose to play, the challenges of portraying that character, and how that character fits into the overall narrative of the story.

그 배우는 악역 역할을 완벽하게 소화했습니다.

Furthermore, discussions about society and family dynamics frequently employ this concept. Korean society has traditionally been influenced by Confucian values, which emphasize the importance of fulfilling one's designated duties within the family and the community.

In Society and Family: Conversations about parenting, gender dynamics, and civic duty often revolve around the expectations associated with different positions.

You might read articles discussing the changing duties of fathers in modern Korean households, or debates about the function of the government in providing social welfare.

현대 사회에서 여성의 역할이 크게 변화했습니다.

Even in casual settings, friends might joke about the 'part' someone plays in their friend group, such as the 'mood maker' or the 'planner'.

우리 모임에서 그는 분위기 메이커 역할을 톡톡히 합니다.

By paying attention to these diverse contexts, you will not only improve your listening comprehension but also gain a deeper understanding of the cultural nuances that shape the Korean language. The ability to recognize and interpret this word across different scenarios is a hallmark of an advanced learner.

스마트폰은 일상생활에서 필수적인 역할을 하고 있습니다.

Keep your ears open, and you will be surprised by how often this essential vocabulary item appears in your daily exposure to Korean.

Even the most diligent language learners encounter stumbling blocks, and navigating the subtle distinctions between similar words is a common challenge. When it comes to expressing the concept of a 'role' or 'duty', English speakers often translate their thoughts directly, leading to unnatural or incorrect usage in Korean.

Mistake 1: Confusing with 할 일: Learners often use '할 일' (things to do) when they should use the word for 'role'.

While '할 일' literally means 'work to do' or 'tasks', it lacks the structural and functional nuance of a designated position. If you are talking about a specific chore you need to complete today, '할 일' is appropriate. However, if you are discussing your ongoing function within a team, using '할 일' sounds too temporary and specific.

Incorrect: 팀에서 제 할 일은 아주 중요합니다. -> Correct: 팀에서 제 역할은 아주 중요합니다.

Another frequent error involves confusing this word with terms related to responsibility or obligation.

Mistake 2: Confusing with 책임: '책임' means 'responsibility' or 'liability'. While related, they are not perfectly interchangeable.

A 'role' is the part you play, whereas 'responsibility' is the burden of ensuring that part is played correctly, or the blame you take if things go wrong. You can have a small part in a project but bear a heavy responsibility for its success. Mixing these up can change the tone of your sentence from descriptive to accusatory or overly burdensome.

그 사고는 제 역할이 아닙니다 (Awkward) -> 그 사고는 제 책임이 아닙니다 (Natural).

Mistake 3: Incorrect Verbs: Using verbs like '입다' (to wear) or '가지다' (to have) instead of the proper collocations.

In English, you might 'wear many hats' or 'have a role', but in Korean, you do not 'wear' or 'have' a part in the same literal sense. You must use verbs like '맡다' (to take on) or '하다' (to do).

저는 좋은 역할을 가지고 있습니다 (Unnatural) -> 저는 좋은 역할을 맡고 있습니다 (Natural).

Finally, learners sometimes struggle with the pronunciation, particularly the transition between the two syllables. The final consonant 'ㄱ' in the first syllable heavily influences the 'ㅎ' in the second syllable, resulting in an aspirated 'ㅋ' sound. Failing to make this phonetic connection can make the word sound disjointed and difficult for native speakers to understand.

발음 주의: [여칼]로 발음해야 자연스럽습니다.

By being aware of these common pitfalls—distinguishing it from mere tasks or heavy responsibilities, using the correct accompanying verbs, and mastering the pronunciation—you can significantly refine your Korean and communicate with much greater confidence and accuracy.

자신의 역할을 혼동하지 마세요.

Review these distinctions regularly, and try to catch yourself before making a direct translation from your native language.

Expanding your vocabulary means not just learning new words, but understanding the subtle shades of meaning between words that seem identical at first glance. Korean is rich with synonyms that allow for highly precise expression, and the concept of a 'role' or 'duty' is no exception.

Synonym 1: 구실: '구실' refers to the function or duty one is expected to perform, often carrying a slightly negative or critical nuance if that duty is not met.

While our main vocabulary word is neutral and widely applicable, '구실' is often used when evaluating whether someone or something is living up to its expected standard. If a tool is broken and useless, you might say it cannot perform its '구실'. It is frequently used in the phrase '구실을 하다' (to do one's part/function properly).

고장 난 시계는 제 구실을 못 합니다.

Another highly relevant term is '몫'.

Synonym 2: 몫: '몫' translates more closely to 'share' or 'portion', but in the context of teamwork, it means the portion of the work one is responsible for.

If a project is divided among five people, each person has their '몫'. It emphasizes the division of labor and the individual's specific slice of the overall burden. You will often hear people say '내 몫을 다하다' (to do my share).

팀원 모두가 각자의 몫을 해내야 합니다.

For more formal or ethical contexts, the word '직분' is appropriate.

Synonym 3: 직분: '직분' refers to one's duty or calling, often associated with a professional title or a moral obligation.

This word carries a sense of solemnity and is frequently used in religious, educational, or highly formal professional settings. A doctor's '직분' is to save lives; a teacher's '직분' is to educate. It is less about a temporary assignment and more about a core identity or lifelong duty.

교사로서의 직분에 충실하겠습니다.

Lastly, '임무' (mission/task) is another related concept. While a 'role' is a position you hold, an '임무' is a specific, often critical, task you are ordered to complete. Soldiers have missions; employees have roles.

그에게 중요한 임무가 부여되었습니다.

Understanding these distinctions allows you to choose the exact right word for the situation. Use our main vocabulary word for general functions and parts played; use '구실' to evaluate basic functioning; use '몫' to talk about a share of work; and use '직분' for solemn, identity-based duties.

상황에 맞는 단어를 선택하는 것이 언어 실력의 역할입니다.

This level of precision is what separates intermediate learners from advanced speakers.

How Formal Is It?

난이도

알아야 할 문법

Noun + (으)로서 (As a...) - Often used to state the capacity in which a role is performed.

Noun + 을/를 맡다 (To take charge of) - Essential collocation.

Verb + 는 것 (Nominalization) - Used to define what a role is (e.g., 역할은 돕는 것이다).

Passive Verbs (주어지다) - Used when a role is assigned.

Adjective + (으)ㄴ Noun - Used to describe the role (e.g., 중요한 역할).

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수준별 예문

제 역할입니다.

It is my role.

Noun + 이다 (to be)

엄마의 역할은 중요해요.

A mother's role is important.

Noun + 의 (possessive particle)

무슨 역할이에요?

What role is it?

Question word 무슨 + Noun

학생의 역할을 해요.

I play the role of a student.

Noun + 을/를 하다

아빠의 역할이 커요.

A father's role is big.

Adjective 크다 (to be big)

좋은 역할입니다.

It is a good role.

Adjective modifier 좋은 + Noun

제 역할이 아니에요.

It is not my role.

Noun + 이/가 아니다 (to not be)

역할을 주세요.

Please give me a role.

Verb 주다 + (으)세요 (polite request)

저는 팀에서 리더 역할을 합니다.

I play the role of leader in the team.

Location particle 에서

그 영화에서 주인공 역할을 했어요.

He played the main character role in that movie.

Past tense 았/었어요

각자의 역할이 다릅니다.

Each person's role is different.

Adjective 다르다 (to be different)

새로운 역할을 찾고 싶어요.

I want to find a new role.

Verb + 고 싶다 (want to)

이 기계의 역할은 무엇입니까?

What is the role of this machine?

Formal question ending ㅂ니까

제 역할을 잘 할 수 있어요.

I can do my role well.

Verb + (으)ㄹ 수 있다 (can do)

친구로서 역할을 다했습니다.

I did my best in my role as a friend.

Particle (으)로서 (as a...)

역할을 바꾸는 것이 어때요?

How about changing roles?

Verb + 는 것이 어때요 (suggestion)

이번 프로젝트에서 중요한 역할을 맡았습니다.

I took on an important role in this project.

Collocation 역할을 맡다

모두가 자신의 역할을 충실히 수행해야 합니다.

Everyone must faithfully carry out their role.

Verb + 아/어야 하다 (must do)

그는 회의에서 중재자 역할을 담당했어요.

He was in charge of the mediator role in the meeting.

Collocation 역할을 담당하다

스마트폰은 현대인의 삶에서 큰 역할을 차지합니다.

Smartphones occupy a big role in modern people's lives.

Collocation 역할을 차지하다

저에게 주어진 역할을 끝까지 해내겠습니다.

I will accomplish the role given to me until the end.

Passive modifier 주어진 + Noun

언론의 역할은 진실을 보도하는 것입니다.

The role of the press is to report the truth.

Noun + 은/는 ~는 것이다 (defining)

비타민은 피로 회복에 핵심적인 역할을 합니다.

Vitamins play a core role in fatigue recovery.

Noun + 에 역할을 하다 (play a role in)

역할 분담이 제대로 이루어지지 않았습니다.

Role division was not carried out properly.

Compound noun 역할 분담

교육은 사회 불평등을 해소하는 데 결정적인 역할을 수행한다.

Education plays a decisive role in resolving social inequality.

Verb + 는 데 역할을 하다 (play a role in doing)

인공지능이 미래 산업에서 어떤 역할을 하게 될지 기대됩니다.

I look forward to seeing what role AI will come to play in future industries.

Verb + 게 되다 (come to do)

그의 역할은 단순히 조언을 넘어서 실질적인 지원을 제공하는 것이었다.

His role went beyond simple advice to providing practical support.

Noun + 을/를 넘어서 (beyond)

정부는 경제 위기 극복을 위해 주도적인 역할을 해야 마땅하다.

It is right for the government to play a leading role to overcome the economic crisis.

Verb + 아/어야 마땅하다 (it is right/proper to)

환경 보호에 있어서 기업의 사회적 역할이 강조되고 있습니다.

The social role of corporations is being emphasized in environmental protection.

Passive verb 강조되다

각 부서의 역할이 중복되지 않도록 업무 프로세스를 개선했습니다.

We improved the work process so that the roles of each department do not overlap.

Verb + 지 않도록 (so that... not)

그녀는 팀의 갈등을 봉합하는 촉매제 역할을 톡톡히 해냈다.

She excellently played the role of a catalyst in patching up the team's conflicts.

Adverb 톡톡히 (excellently/solidly)

역할 갈등으로 인해 직무 스트레스가 높아지는 경우가 많습니다.

There are many cases where job stress increases due to role conflict.

Noun + (으)로 인해 (due to)

시민 단체는 권력의 남용을 감시하는 소금과 같은 역할을 자처해야 한다.

Civic groups must take it upon themselves to play a salt-like role in monitoring the abuse of power.

Noun + 와/과 같은 역할을 자처하다

이 소설에서 주인공의 조력자는 서사의 긴장감을 이완시키는 기능적 역할을 담당한다.

In this novel, the protagonist's helper takes on the functional role of relaxing the narrative tension.

Advanced vocabulary 이완시키다, 기능적

다원화된 현대 사회에서는 개인에게 요구되는 다중적 역할을 유연하게 수용하는 태도가 필요하다.

In a pluralistic modern society, an attitude of flexibly accepting the multiple roles required of an individual is necessary.

Passive modifier 요구되는

해당 정책은 시장의 실패를 보완하는 마중물 역할을 성공적으로 수행했다는 평가를 받는다.

The policy is evaluated as having successfully carried out the role of priming water to supplement market failure.

Metaphorical expression 마중물 역할

국제 사회에서 한국이 가교 역할을 수행하기 위해서는 보다 정교한 외교 전략이 수반되어야 한다.

For Korea to play a bridging role in the international community, a more sophisticated diplomatic strategy must be accompanied.

Verb + 기 위해서는 (in order to)

그의 발언은 사태를 진정시키기는커녕 오히려 갈등을 증폭시키는 불쏘시개 역할을 하고 말았다.

Far from calming the situation, his remarks ended up playing the role of kindling that amplified the conflict.

Grammar ~기는커녕 (far from)

조직 내의 역할 모호성은 구성원들의 직무 만족도를 저하시키는 주요 원인으로 지목된다.

Role ambiguity within an organization is pointed out as a major cause of lowering members' job satisfaction.

Academic vocabulary 역할 모호성

예술은 현실을 단순히 모방하는 것을 넘어, 새로운 비전을 제시하는 예언자적 역할을 띠어야 한다.

Art must go beyond simply imitating reality and take on a prophetic role of presenting a new vision.

Verb 띠다 (to take on a characteristic)

해당 법안은 기득권층의 이익을 수호하는 방패막이 역할로 전락했다는 맹렬한 비판에 직면했다.

The bill faced fierce criticism that it had degenerated into a shield role protecting the interests of the vested class.

Advanced verb 전락하다 (to degenerate/fall)

역사적 격변기마다 지식인들은 시대의 모순을 짚어내는 시대의 양심 역할을 기꺼이 감내해 왔다.

At every period of historical upheaval, intellectuals have willingly endured the role of the conscience of the times, pointing out the contradictions of the era.

Verb + 아/어 오다 (have been doing)

생태계의 복원력은 각 종이 부여받은 생태적 역할을 얼마나 온전히 수행하느냐에 전적으로 달려 있다.

The resilience of an ecosystem depends entirely on how fully each species carries out its assigned ecological role.

Grammar ~느냐에 달려 있다 (depends on how)

자본주의 체제 하에서 국가의 역할은 시장의 자율성을 침해하지 않는 선에서 최소한의 개입에 머물러야 한다는 주장이 제기되었다.

An argument was raised that under the capitalist system, the role of the state should remain at minimal intervention within the line of not infringing on market autonomy.

Complex sentence structure with multiple clauses

그의 철학은 인간을 우주의 중심이 아닌, 거대한 자연의 순환 고리 속 하나의 미미한 역할자로 격하시킨다.

His philosophy demotes humans not as the center of the universe, but as an insignificant role-player within the massive cycle of nature.

Noun + 자 (person who does)

언어는 단순히 의사소통의 도구를 넘어, 인간의 사고 체계를 규정하고 형성하는 인식론적 역할을 수행한다.

Language goes beyond simply being a tool for communication and plays an epistemological role in defining and shaping the human thought system.

Academic vocabulary 인식론적

현대 문학에서 안티히어로는 전통적인 선악의 이분법을 해체하고 도덕적 딜레마를 투영하는 복합적인 역할을 띤다.

In modern literature, the antihero takes on a complex role that dismantles the traditional dichotomy of good and evil and projects moral dilemmas.

Advanced literary analysis vocabulary

기업의 지배구조 개선은 이사회가 경영진을 견제하는 본연의 역할을 회복할 때 비로소 실질적인 성과를 거둘 수 있다.

Improvement of corporate governance can only achieve practical results when the board of directors recovers its original role of checking the management.

Adverb 비로소 (only then)

동의어

임무 직분 구실 소임

반의어

자주 쓰는 조합

역할을 하다

역할을 맡다

역할을 담당하다

역할이 주어지다

중요한 역할

핵심적인 역할

역할을 다하다

역할 분담

역할 모델

역할극

자주 쓰는 구문

제 역할을 다하다

중요한 역할을 하다

역할을 분담하다

역할을 맡기다

역할이 크다

역할을 바꾸다

역할을 수행하다

주도적인 역할을 하다

가교 역할을 하다

촉매제 역할을 하다

자주 혼동되는 단어

역할 vs 할 일 (Things to do)

역할 vs 책임 (Responsibility)

역할 vs 직업 (Job/Occupation)

관용어 및 표현

"감초 역할을 하다"

"윤활유 역할을 하다"

"마중물 역할을 하다"

"방패막이 역할을 하다"

"들러리 역할을 하다"

"징검다리 역할을 하다"

"소금 역할을 하다"

"불쏘시개 역할을 하다"

"산파 역할을 하다"

"견인차 역할을 하다"

혼동하기 쉬운

역할 vs

문장 패턴

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사용법

nuance

Implies a functional contribution to a larger whole, not just an isolated task.

formality

Neutral. Can be used in all levels of formality by changing the verb endings.

frequency

Extremely high frequency in both spoken and written Korean.

자주 하는 실수

Translating 'I have a role' literally as '역할을 가지고 있다' instead of '역할을 맡고 있다'.
Pronouncing it exactly as spelled [역.할] instead of the natural [여칼].
Using '역할' when referring to a simple, temporary task (할 일).
Confusing '역할' (the part you play) with '책임' (the blame/burden you bear).
Forgetting to use the possessive particle '의' when describing whose role it is (e.g., saying 엄마 역할 instead of 엄마의 역할 in formal writing).

팁

Link the Consonants

Always remember the phonetic rule. The 'ㄱ' and 'ㅎ' combine to make a 'ㅋ' sound. Say [여칼] smoothly without pausing between the syllables.

Pair with 맡다 for Jobs

When talking about your job or a project, use '맡다' instead of '하다'. It sounds much more professional and native-like. Example: 프로젝트에서 디자인 역할을 맡았습니다.

Use 의 for Possession

To say 'the role of [something]', always use the possessive particle '의'. Example: 부모의 역할 (the role of parents), 정부의 역할 (the role of the government).

Learn Compound Words

Expand your vocabulary by learning words that include this term, such as 역할극 (role-play) and 역할 분담 (division of roles). They are very useful in daily life.

Not Just for People

Don't limit this word to human jobs. Use it to describe the function of apps, ingredients, machine parts, and abstract ideas to sound more advanced.

Adjectives Matter

Memorize common adjectives that go with it: 중요한 (important), 핵심적인 (core), 큰 (big). This makes your sentences richer.

Don't confuse with 할 일

If you are talking about a list of chores, use 할 일. If you are talking about your designated position or function, use 역할.

Passive Voice

Practice using '역할이 주어지다' (a role is given). It is a great way to sound more formal and objective in your writing.

Metaphorical Roles

Learn phrases like '감초 역할을 하다' (to play the role of licorice - meaning to be an indispensable supporting element) to impress native speakers.

Context Clues

When you hear this word, listen for the verb that follows. It will tell you if the person is taking a role, giving a role, or evaluating how a role was performed.

암기하기

기억법

Imagine you have to YELL (역) at the HALL (할) because your ROLE is the town crier. YEOK-HAL = Role.

어원

Sino-Korean

문화적 맥락

The term is frequently used in modern debates about changing gender roles (성역할) in Korean society.

When discussing the roles of superiors, use honorific verbs like '수행하시다' instead of '하다'.

'역할' is a buzzword in Korean HR, often used in performance evaluations.

Roles are often strictly tied to age and rank in Korea.

실생활에서 연습하기

실제 사용 상황

대화 시작하기

"가족 안에서 본인의 역할은 무엇이라고 생각하나요?"

"최근에 본 영화에서 가장 인상 깊었던 역할은 누구였나요?"

"팀 프로젝트를 할 때 주로 어떤 역할을 맡는 편인가요?"

"현대 사회에서 소셜 미디어의 역할은 무엇일까요?"

"앞으로 직장에서 어떤 역할을 해보고 싶나요?"

일기 주제

Describe your role in your friend group.

Write about a time you had to take on a difficult role.

How has your role in your family changed as you grew older?

What do you think is the role of art in society?

If you were an actor, what kind of role would you want to play?

자주 묻는 질문

10 질문

Yes, absolutely. It is very common to use this word to describe the function of an object, a machine part, or even an abstract concept like a policy or a vitamin. For example, you can say 'The role of this button is to turn on the machine.'

'역할을 하다' simply means 'to play a role' or 'to do a part'. It is general and can be used for anything. '역할을 맡다' means 'to take on a role' or 'to be assigned a role'. It implies that a specific duty was given to a person, making it more suitable for jobs, projects, or acting.

Because the first syllable ends with 'ㄱ' and the second starts with 'ㅎ', the sounds merge to create an aspirated 'ㅋ'. Therefore, it should be pronounced as [여칼] (yeo-kal), not [역할] (yeok-hal).

No, it is a neutral word. You can use it in highly formal academic papers, and you can also use it when joking around with your friends. The formality of the sentence is determined by the verb endings you use, not the noun itself.

Yes, you can say '역할이 많다' to mean you have many roles or hats to wear. However, if you mean you have a lot of work to do, it is better to say '할 일이 많다'.

'역할 분담' is a compound noun that means 'division of roles' or 'role allocation'. It is frequently used in team settings to describe the process of deciding who will do what.

No. While the synonym '구실' can mean both 'function' and 'excuse' (as in making a poor excuse), '역할' strictly means role, part, or function. It does not carry the negative connotation of an excuse.

Koreans use the English loanword '롤모델' (rol-mo-del) or the literal translation '역할 모델' (yeok-hal mo-del). Both are widely understood, but '롤모델' is more common in everyday speech.

'역할극' (yeok-hal-geuk) translates to 'role-play'. It is used in educational settings, psychological therapy, or language learning where people act out specific scenarios.

The most natural way to say this is '역할을 다하다' (literally: to do all of one's role) or '역할을 충실히 수행하다' (to faithfully carry out one's role).

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