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A2 noun #4,000 most common 8 min read

해답

haedap Top 4,000

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips 해답 in 30 Seconds

Explanation 해답 in your Level:

At the A1 level, think of '해답' (haedap) as a special word for 'answer.' While you might first learn '대답' (daedap) for answering a person or '답' (dap) for a simple answer, '해답' is usually used when you are looking at a textbook. In your Korean workbooks, when you want to check if your homework is correct, you look for the '해답' section at the back. It is a noun, so you can say '해답을 봐요' (I look at the answer). At this stage, just remember it as the word for 'the answer key' in your books. It helps you solve a puzzle or a math problem. You can use it simply: '해답이 어디에 있어요?' (Where is the answer?). This is a very useful word for students because it helps you study by yourself. Don't worry about the complex meanings yet; just think of it as the 'key' to your exercises.

At the A2 level, you can start using '해답' (haedap) for more than just homework. It means 'a solution' to a problem. You might hear people say '해답을 찾다' (to find a solution). This is common when talking about difficult situations. For example, '우리는 문제의 해답을 찾고 싶어요' (We want to find the solution to the problem). Notice that we use the particle '의' (of) or '에 대한' (about/for) with this word. Unlike '정답' (jeongdap), which is the one 'right' answer on a test, '해답' is about the process of solving something. If you are lost in a city, finding the right way to your hotel is a '해답.' It is a very positive word because it implies that a difficult situation is being fixed. Try using it when you talk about your goals or challenges in your daily life.

At the B1 level, you should understand that '해답' (haedap) carries a more intellectual and logical nuance. It is not just any answer; it is an answer reached through reasoning. You will see this word often in news articles, essays, and formal discussions. It is frequently used in the pattern '[Noun] + 에 대한 해답' (The answer to [Noun]). For instance, '환경 문제에 대한 해답' (The solution to environmental problems). You should also learn the compound word '해답지' (haedap-ji), which is the physical answer sheet with explanations. At this level, you can distinguish '해답' from '대답' (a verbal reply). If a teacher asks you a question, your verbal response is a '대답,' but the logic you used to solve the math problem is the '해답.' It is a more formal and precise word that makes your Korean sound more professional.

At the B2 level, '해답' (haedap) becomes a versatile tool for discussing abstract and social issues. It is often used to describe the 'ultimate key' to a complex dilemma. You will encounter it in business contexts, such as '시장 변화에 대한 해답을 제시하다' (to present a solution to market changes). Here, '제시하다' (to present/suggest) is a very common verb pairing. You should also be aware of its philosophical usage. In literature or deep conversations, people might search for the '해답' to life or happiness. This suggests that the answer is not a simple fact but a deep realization. You can also compare it with '해결책' (haegyeol-chaek). While '해결책' is a practical measure or policy, '해답' is the conceptual answer that explains why that measure works. Using '해답' correctly shows that you can handle complex logical structures in Korean.

At the C1 level, you should master the nuanced etymology and the 'register' of '해답' (haedap). The Hanja '解' (to untie) implies that the problem is like a tangled knot, and the '해답' is the act of untying it. This metaphorical sense is crucial for high-level reading and writing. You will see '해답' used in academic papers to describe the resolution of a hypothesis. It is also used in political rhetoric to suggest a 'vision' or a 'way forward.' For example, '국민의 목소리에서 해답을 구하다' (to seek the answer in the voice of the people). You should be able to use it in complex sentence structures, such as using it as a metaphorical subject: '그의 침묵이 오히려 해답이 되었다' (His silence, rather, became the answer). At this level, you are expected to know that '해답' is more definitive and profound than '답변' or '설명.'

At the C2 level, you can appreciate '해답' (haedap) in its most abstract and literary forms. It is used to discuss the 'unsolvable' mysteries of existence, often paired with words like '영원한' (eternal) or '궁극적인' (ultimate). You should be able to distinguish it from '해법' (haebeop - the method of solving) and '방책' (bangchaek - a strategic plan). In high-level professional or academic Korean, '해답' represents the culmination of an intellectual inquiry. You might find it in phrases like '역사의 해답' (the answer of history) or '시대적 해답' (the answer of the era). At this mastery level, your usage of '해답' should reflect an understanding of its weight—it is the final word on a matter, the 'key' that unlocks a previously inaccessible truth. You can use it to critique arguments, suggesting that a proposed '해결책' fails to provide a true '해답' because it ignores the root cause.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

해답 in 30 Seconds

A noun meaning 'solution' or 'answer' to a complex problem or puzzle.
Commonly used in textbooks as the 'answer key' with explanations.
Implies a logical process of solving (Hanja: 解 - untie, 答 - answer).
Different from '정답' (correct choice) and '대답' (verbal reply).

The Korean word 해답 (haedap) is a profound noun that bridges the gap between a simple 'answer' and a complex 'solution.' Derived from the Hanja 解 (해 - to loosen/untie/solve) and 答 (답 - answer/reply), it literally translates to an 'answer that unties a knot.' While English speakers might use 'answer' for everything from a phone call to a math problem, Korean distinguishes between the act of responding and the act of resolving. 해답 is specifically reserved for situations where a problem, puzzle, or difficult life circumstance requires a reasoned resolution.

Academic Context: In a classroom, 해답 refers to the solution key or the detailed explanation of how a final result was reached. It isn't just the 'correct choice' (which would be 정답), but the logical path to that choice.
Life & Philosophy: When Koreans speak about finding the 'meaning of life' or solving a 'social crisis,' they use 해답. It implies a search for truth or a way out of a predicament that isn't immediately obvious.

인생의 고난에 대한 명쾌한 해답을 찾기는 쉽지 않습니다. (It is not easy to find a clear solution to the hardships of life.)

When do you use it? Use it when you are looking for a 'key.' If you are stuck in a maze, the exit path is the 해답. If you are looking at a math textbook, the section at the back with the step-by-step explanations is the 해답지 (answer sheet). It carries a weight of finality and clarity. Unlike 해결책 (solution/measure), which sounds more like a policy or a tool, 해답 sounds like the ultimate truth or the specific answer to a specific question.

이 문제의 해답은 바로 우리 안에 있습니다. (The answer to this problem lies right within us.)

In modern discourse, you will see this word in news headlines regarding economic crises or environmental issues. '기후 위기의 해답을 찾아서' (In search of the answer to the climate crisis). It suggests a deep, intellectual, or structural resolution rather than a quick fix. It is a word of hope and logic combined.

Colloquial Usage: In daily life, if a friend is struggling with a relationship, you might ask, '너만의 해답을 찾았어?' (Have you found your own answer/solution?). It shows respect for the complexity of their situation.

책 뒤에 있는 해답을 보지 마세요. (Don't look at the answers in the back of the book.)

Mastering 해답 requires understanding its common verb pairings. Most frequently, you will 'find' (찾다), 'seek' (구하다), 'give/provide' (제시하다), or 'get' (얻다) a 해답. Because it is a noun, it often acts as the object of these transitive verbs. However, it can also be used as a subject when the solution itself 'exists' (있다) or 'is clear' (명확하다).

Pattern 1: Object + Verb: [Noun] + 에 대한 + 해답을 + [Verb].
Example: 환경 오염에 대한 해답을 찾고 있습니다. (We are looking for the answer to environmental pollution.)
Pattern 2: Noun Modification: [Adjective] + 해답.
Example: 유일한 해답 (The only answer), 현명한 해답 (A wise solution).

그는 마침내 그 어려운 수학 문제의 해답을 얻었다. (He finally obtained the solution to that difficult math problem.)

When using 해답 in a more formal or written context, such as an essay or a report, it often pairs with 제시하다 (to present/suggest). For instance, '본 보고서는 저출산 문제의 해답을 제시하고자 한다' (This report intends to present a solution to the low birth rate problem). In this context, 해답 sounds more authoritative and conclusive than 생각 (thought) or 의견 (opinion).

어떤 질문에는 단 하나의 해답만 있는 것이 아닙니다. (For some questions, there isn't just one single answer.)

Another common usage is in the compound noun 해답지 (haedap-ji), which refers to the physical answer sheet or key. Students will often say, '해답지를 봐도 모르겠어요' (Even after looking at the answer key, I don't understand). Here, 해답 specifically implies the explanation/process, whereas 답안지 (dapan-ji) usually refers to the sheet where the student writes their own answers.

Advanced Usage: In business, you might hear: 우리는 고객의 니즈에서 해답을 찾아야 합니다. (We must find the answer in the customer's needs.) This metaphorical usage is very common in professional Korean.

모두가 동의할 수 있는 해답을 내놓으세요. (Please come up with an answer that everyone can agree on.)

If you are living in Korea or consuming Korean media, 해답 is ubiquitous. You will hear it in the hallowed halls of universities, in the high-pressure boardrooms of Gangnam, and in the introspective dialogues of K-Dramas. It is a word that signals a shift from 'questioning' to 'concluding.'

Educational Media (EBS): Educational broadcasts frequently use 해답 when explaining complex math or science problems. Teachers will say, '자, 이제 이 문제의 해답을 함께 풀어봅시다' (Now, let's work through the solution to this problem together).
News & Documentaries: When journalists discuss structural issues like 'the housing crisis' or 'the aging population,' they often end their segments by asking, '이 거대한 사회적 난제의 해답은 무엇일까요?' (What is the answer to this massive social dilemma?).

영화의 결말이 우리에게 해답을 주지는 않았습니다. (The ending of the movie didn't give us the answer.)

In K-Dramas, especially those in the 'Slice of Life' or 'Melodrama' genres (like My Mister or Misaeng), characters often grapple with abstract questions. A character might sit at a pojangmacha (street stall) and sigh, '인생에 해답이 있긴 한 걸까?' (Is there even an answer to life?). This usage highlights the word's ability to handle heavy, emotional, and philosophical weight.

과학자들은 우주의 신비에 대한 해답을 찾고 싶어 합니다. (Scientists want to find answers to the mysteries of the universe.)

In bookstores, you will see many self-help books with titles like '고민에 대한 해답' (The Answer to Your Worries). Here, the word is used as a marketing hook, promising the reader a definitive way to solve their personal problems. It sounds more reliable and 'proven' than just '팁' (tips) or '조언' (advice).

Corporate Culture: In meetings, a manager might say, '현장에 해답이 있다' (The answer is in the field/on-site). This is a common business mantra in Korea, emphasizing that practical solutions come from observing the actual work environment rather than just sitting in an office.

경제 위기를 극복할 해답이 필요합니다. (We need a solution to overcome the economic crisis.)

One of the most frequent hurdles for English speakers is distinguishing 해답 from other words that also translate to 'answer.' Because English often uses 'answer' as a catch-all, learners tend to over-apply 해답 in contexts where it sounds unnatural or overly dramatic.

Mistake 1: 해답 vs. 정답 (The 'Right' Answer): If you are asking someone for the answer to a trivia question like 'What is the capital of France?', do not use 해답. Use 정답 (jeong-dap). 정답 implies there is only one objectively correct fact. 해답 implies a process of solving.
Mistake 2: 해답 vs. 대답 (The 'Reply'): If someone asks you 'How are you?' and you respond, that response is a 대답 (dae-dap). Never say '해답을 했어요' when you mean 'I replied to the message.' 대답 is a verbal or written response to a person.

[Wrong]: 제 질문에 해답해 주세요. (Please 'solve' my question.)
[Right]: 제 질문에 대답해 주세요. (Please answer/reply to my question.)

Another common error is using 해답 when 해결책 (haegyeol-chaek) is more appropriate. While they are close, 해결책 is more 'managerial' or 'technical.' If you are talking about fixing a broken pipe or implementing a new software patch, 해결책 is better. 해답 is more 'intellectual' or 'existential.' Think of 해답 as the 'key' and 해결책 as the 'tool.'

[Wrong]: 퀴즈의 해답은 3번입니다. (The 'solution' to the quiz is number 3.)
[Right]: 퀴즈의 정답은 3번입니다. (The 'correct answer' to the quiz is number 3.)

Finally, avoid using 해답 as a verb directly. Unlike 'answer' in English, which can be a verb ('Answer me!'), 해답 is strictly a noun. You must pair it with a verb like 찾다 or 얻다. You cannot say '문제를 해답하다' (to answer the problem) in standard Korean; you would say '문제의 해답을 내놓다' (to put forth the answer to the problem).

Korean has a rich vocabulary for 'answers' and 'solutions.' Understanding the subtle differences between 해답 and its synonyms will significantly elevate your fluency. Each word occupies a specific 'register' and situational context.

해답 (Haedap) vs. 정답 (Jeongdap): 해답: The logical solution or explanation for a complex problem.
정답: The single, objectively correct answer (e.g., on a test).
Example: 'The math problem's 정답 is 42, but the 해답 shows the five steps to get there.'
해답 (Haedap) vs. 해결책 (Haegyeolchaek): 해답: An 'answer' found through reasoning or insight.
해결책: A 'measure' or 'remedy' to fix a practical problem.
Example: 'We found the 해답 (insight) to our low sales, so we implemented a 새로운 해결책 (new marketing strategy).'
해답 (Haedap) vs. 답변 (Dapbyeon): 해답: Solving a problem.
답변: Formal response to a question or request.
Example: 'The minister gave a 답변 (formal reply) to the journalist, but it wasn't the 해답 (solution) the public wanted.'

이 문제는 단순한 답변이 아니라 근본적인 해답이 필요합니다. (This issue needs a fundamental solution, not just a simple response.)

In more literary or specialized contexts, you might encounter 해법 (haebeop). This specifically refers to the 'method of solving' (解法). While 해답 is the result/explanation, 해법 is the methodology. For example, '큐브의 해법' (The method for solving a Rubik's cube).

그는 자신만의 해법으로 그 문제의 해답을 찾아냈다. (He found the solution to the problem using his own method.)

Finally, for 'alternative' or 'plan B,' use 대안 (daean). If the primary 해답 isn't working, you look for a 대안. For example, '석유의 대안' (An alternative to oil). Using these words correctly makes you sound precise and educated in Korean.

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

The character 解 (해) originally depicted a hand holding a knife to separate the horns from an ox, symbolizing the act of breaking something down to understand it.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /hɛ.dap/

US /hɛ.dɑːp/

The stress is balanced, but slightly more emphasis is often placed on the first syllable '해'.

Rhymes With

대답 (daedap) 정답 (jeongdap) 응답 (eungdap) 문답 (mundap) 필답 (pildap) 면답 (myeondap) 화답 (hwadap) 복답 (bokdap)

Common Errors

Pronouncing '해' as 'hey'. It should be a short 'ae' sound.
Releasing the final 'p' with a puff of air. In Korean, final consonants are 'unreleased'.
Confusing the pitch with '대답' (daedap).
Pronouncing '답' like 'dab' with a 'b' sound. It is a crisp, stopped 'p'.
Slurring the 'h' so it sounds like '애답' (aedap).

Difficulty Rating

Reading 2/5

Easy to recognize in texts as it appears frequently in textbooks and news.

Writing 3/5

Requires understanding the difference between 정답, 대답, and 해결책.

Speaking 3/5

Natural usage requires knowing common verb collocations like '제시하다'.

Listening 2/5

Clear pronunciation and distinct from other common words.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

문제 (problem) 질문 (question) 답 (answer) 찾다 (to find) 책 (book)

Learn Next

해결책 (solution/measure) 정답 (correct answer) 해설 (explanation) 제시하다 (to suggest/present) 모색하다 (to seek)

Advanced

타개하다 (to break through) 강구하다 (to devise/seek) 본질적 (essential) 딜레마 (dilemma) 실마리 (clue)

Grammar to Know

~에 대한 (Regarding/About)

이 문제에 대한 해답을 찾으세요.

~의 (Possessive particle)

인생의 해답.

~기 위해 (In order to)

해답을 얻기 위해 공부해요.

~지 않고 (Without doing)

해답을 보지 않고 풀어요.

~ㄹ/을 수 있다 (Can/Possibility)

해답을 찾을 수 있어요.

Examples by Level

책 뒤에 해답이 있어요.

There is an answer at the back of the book.

해답 (noun) + 이 (subject particle) + 있어요 (exists/is).

해답을 보세요.

Look at the answer.

해답 (noun) + 을 (object particle) + 보세요 (look/see - polite command).

이것은 수학 해답이에요.

This is the math answer.

이것 (this) + 은 (topic particle) + 수학 (math) + 해답 (answer) + 이에요 (is).

해답이 진짜 쉬워요.

The answer is really easy.

해답 (noun) + 이 (subject particle) + 진짜 (really) + 쉬워요 (is easy).

선생님, 해답이 뭐예요?

Teacher, what is the answer?

선생님 (teacher) + 해답 (answer) + 이 (subject particle) + 뭐예요 (what is it?).

해답을 아직 몰라요.

I don't know the answer yet.

해답 (noun) + 을 (object particle) + 아직 (yet) + 몰라요 (don't know).

친구와 해답을 찾아요.

I find the answer with a friend.

친구 (friend) + 와 (with) + 해답 (answer) + 을 (object particle) + 찾아요 (find).

해답을 쓰고 싶어요.

I want to write the answer.

해답 (noun) + 을 (object particle) + 쓰고 (write and) + 싶어요 (want to).

우리는 문제의 해답을 찾았습니다.

We found the solution to the problem.

문제 (problem) + 의 (possessive) + 해답 (solution) + 을 (object particle) + 찾았습니다 (found).

어려운 문제지만 해답이 있어요.

It's a difficult problem, but there is a solution.

어려운 (difficult) + 문제 (problem) + 지만 (but) + 해답 (solution) + 이 (subject particle) + 있어요 (exists).

그 질문에 대한 해답을 알아요?

Do you know the answer to that question?

질문 (question) + 에 대한 (regarding/to) + 해답 (answer) + 을 (object particle) + 알아요 (know?).

해답을 얻기 위해서 노력해요.

I work hard to get the answer.

얻기 위해서 (in order to obtain) + 노력해요 (work hard).

명쾌한 해답을 주세요.

Please give me a clear answer.

명쾌한 (clear/lucid) + 해답 (answer) + 을 (object particle) + 주세요 (give please).

이 책은 많은 해답을 줍니다.

This book gives many answers.

이 (this) + 책 (book) + 은 (topic particle) + 많은 (many) + 해답 (answers) + 을 (object) + 줍니다 (gives).

해답을 찾는 것이 중요해요.

Finding the answer is important.

찾는 것 (finding - gerund) + 이 (subject particle) + 중요해요 (is important).

혼자서 해답을 생각했어요.

I thought of the answer by myself.

혼자서 (by oneself) + 해답 (answer) + 을 (object) + 생각했어요 (thought).

그는 인생의 해답을 찾으러 여행을 떠났다.

He went on a trip to find the answer to life.

인생 (life) + 의 (possessive) + 해답 (answer) + 을 (object) + 찾으러 (in order to find) + 여행 (trip).

해답지를 보지 않고 문제를 풀었어요.

I solved the problem without looking at the answer key.

해답지 (answer key) + 를 (object) + 보지 않고 (without looking).

사회 문제에 대한 근본적인 해답이 필요합니다.

A fundamental solution to social problems is needed.

사회 문제 (social problem) + 에 대한 (regarding) + 근본적인 (fundamental) + 해답 (solution).

전문가는 이 상황에 대한 해답을 제시했다.

The expert presented a solution to this situation.

전문가 (expert) + 해답 (solution) + 을 (object) + 제시했다 (presented).

우리는 더 나은 해답을 얻기 위해 회의를 했다.

We had a meeting to get a better answer.

더 나은 (better) + 해답 (answer) + 을 (object) + 얻기 위해 (to obtain).

그의 말속에 해답이 숨어 있었다.

The answer was hidden in his words.

말속에 (within the words) + 해답 (answer) + 이 (subject) + 숨어 있었다 (was hidden).

과학적인 해답을 찾기는 매우 어렵습니다.

It is very difficult to find a scientific answer.

과학적인 (scientific) + 해답 (answer) + 을 (object) + 찾기는 (finding - topic) + 어렵습니다 (is difficult).

모두가 만족할 만한 해답을 내놓으세요.

Please come up with an answer that can satisfy everyone.

만족할 만한 (satisfactory) + 해답 (answer) + 을 (object) + 내놓으세요 (put forth/suggest).

경제 위기를 타개할 명확한 해답이 보이지 않습니다.

A clear solution to overcome the economic crisis is not visible.

타개할 (to overcome/break through) + 명확한 (clear) + 해답 (solution).

그 철학자는 존재의 이유에 대한 해답을 구했다.

That philosopher sought the answer to the reason for existence.

철학자 (philosopher) + 존재의 이유 (reason for existence) + 해답 (answer) + 을 (object) + 구했다 (sought).

기술적 한계를 극복하는 것이 이번 프로젝트의 해답입니다.

Overcoming technical limitations is the answer to this project.

극복하는 것 (overcoming) + 이 (subject) + 해답 (answer) + 입니다 (is).

현장 조사가 문제 해결의 유일한 해답일 수 있습니다.

Field investigation might be the only answer to problem-solving.

현장 조사 (field investigation) + 유일한 (only/unique) + 해답 (answer).

이 질문에 대한 해답은 책마다 다릅니다.

The answer to this question differs from book to book.

책마다 (every book) + 다릅니다 (is different).

우리는 갈등을 풀기 위해 최선의 해답을 모색했다.

We sought the best solution to resolve the conflict.

갈등 (conflict) + 을 (object) + 풀기 위해 (to untie/resolve) + 최선의 (best) + 해답 (solution) + 을 (object) + 모색했다 (sought/searched).

해답이 없는 질문은 우리를 힘들게 합니다.

Questions without answers make us suffer.

해답 (answer) + 이 (subject) + 없는 (non-existent) + 질문 (question).

정답보다는 해답을 찾아가는 과정이 더 가치 있습니다.

The process of finding a solution is more valuable than the correct answer.

정답 (correct answer) + 보다 (than) + 찾아가는 과정 (process of finding) + 가치 있습니다 (is valuable).

그 정책은 근시안적이며 장기적인 해답이 될 수 없다.

That policy is short-sighted and cannot be a long-term solution.

근시안적 (short-sighted) + 장기적인 (long-term) + 해답 (solution).

고전 문학 속에서 현대 사회의 해답을 발견하다.

Discovering the answers to modern society within classical literature.

고전 문학 (classical literature) + 속에서 (within) + 해답 (answer) + 을 (object) + 발견하다 (to discover).

과학은 우주의 기원에 대해 끊임없이 해답을 요구한다.

Science constantly demands answers about the origin of the universe.

끊임없이 (constantly) + 해답 (answer) + 을 (object) + 요구한다 (demands).

작가는 소설을 통해 독자에게 해답을 던져준다.

The author throws an answer to the reader through the novel.

소설을 통해 (through the novel) + 던져준다 (throws/gives).

난관에 봉착했을 때일수록 본질적인 해답에 집중해야 한다.

The more you hit a deadlock, the more you must focus on the essential answer.

난관에 봉착하다 (to hit a deadlock) + 본질적인 (essential) + 해답 (answer).

그의 연구는 질병 치료의 새로운 해답을 제시할 것으로 기대된다.

His research is expected to present a new solution for disease treatment.

제시할 것으로 (that it will present) + 기대된다 (is expected).

때로는 침묵이 가장 강력한 해답이 되기도 한다.

Sometimes silence becomes the most powerful answer.

침묵 (silence) + 이 (subject) + 가장 (most) + 강력한 (powerful) + 해답 (answer).

우리는 과거의 실수에서 해답을 찾아야만 한다.

We must find the answer in the mistakes of the past.

과거의 실수 (past mistakes) + 에서 (from) + 찾아야만 한다 (must find).

인간 소외 문제의 궁극적 해답은 공동체 의식의 회복에 있다.

The ultimate solution to the problem of human alienation lies in the restoration of a sense of community.

궁극적 (ultimate) + 해답 (solution) + 은 (topic) + 회복 (restoration) + 에 있다 (lies in).

현대 철학은 해답을 제시하기보다 질문의 방식을 재정의한다.

Modern philosophy redefines the way of questioning rather than presenting answers.

제시하기보다 (rather than presenting) + 재정의한다 (redefines).

역사는 되풀이되지만, 그 속에서 찾아내는 해답은 매번 다르다.

History repeats itself, but the answers found within it are different every time.

되풀이되다 (to be repeated) + 찾아내는 (finding) + 해답 (answer).

디지털 시대의 윤리적 딜레마에 대한 해답은 아직 모호하다.

The answer to the ethical dilemmas of the digital age is still ambiguous.

윤리적 딜레마 (ethical dilemma) + 모호하다 (is ambiguous).

예술은 삶의 고통에 대한 미학적 해답을 추구한다.

Art pursues an aesthetic answer to the pains of life.

미학적 (aesthetic) + 해답 (answer) + 을 (object) + 추구한다 (pursues).

법치주의의 근간을 흔드는 사안에 대해 사법부는 해답을 내놓아야 한다.

The judiciary must provide an answer to issues that shake the foundation of the rule of law.

근간을 흔드는 (shaking the foundation) + 사법부 (judiciary) + 해답 (answer).

그의 논문은 양자역학의 난제에 대한 획기적인 해답을 담고 있다.

His paper contains a groundbreaking solution to the dilemma of quantum mechanics.

획기적인 (groundbreaking) + 해답 (solution) + 을 (object) + 담고 있다 (contains).

진정한 해답은 논리적 정합성뿐만 아니라 실천적 가능성도 갖추어야 한다.

A true solution must possess not only logical consistency but also practical feasibility.

논리적 정합성 (logical consistency) + 실천적 가능성 (practical feasibility).

Common Collocations

해답을 찾다

해답을 제시하다

명쾌한 해답

유일한 해답

해답을 얻다

해답을 구하다

근본적인 해답

해답지

해답을 모색하다

현명한 해답

Common Phrases

해답은 멀리 있지 않다

— The solution is not far away/is close at hand.

해답은 멀리 있지 않으니 포기하지 마세요.

현장에 해답이 있다

— The answer/solution is found on-site/in the field.

책상에 앉아 있지 말고 나가 보세요. 현장에 해답이 있습니다.

해답을 내놓다

— To produce or provide a solution.

그는 모두가 깜짝 놀랄 해답을 내놓았다.

해답을 갈구하다

— To long for or desperately seek an answer.

그는 진실에 대한 해답을 갈구했다.

해답이 나오다

— An answer/solution has been produced/emerged.

드디어 이 문제의 해답이 나왔다.

해답을 가르쳐주다

— To tell/teach someone the answer.

선생님께서 어려운 문제의 해답을 가르쳐주셨다.

해답을 공유하다

— To share a solution with others.

우리는 서로의 해답을 공유하며 성장했다.

해답을 확인하다

— To check the answer.

문제를 다 푼 뒤에 해답을 확인했다.

해답을 맞히다

— To get the answer right.

그는 어려운 퀴즈의 해답을 정확히 맞혔다.

해답을 흐리다

— To obscure or dodge giving a clear answer.

그는 질문에 대해 해답을 흐리며 대답을 피했다.

Often Confused With

해답 vs 정답

Use '정답' for the one correct fact on a test; use '해답' for the logical explanation.

해답 vs 대답

Use '대답' for a verbal reply to a person; '해답' is for solving a problem.

해답 vs 해결책

Use '해결책' for practical steps/measures; '해답' for the intellectual key/answer.

Idioms & Expressions

"해답이 없다"

— To be hopeless or have no way out of a situation.

이 상황은 정말 해답이 없네요.

Informal/Slang

"해답을 쥐고 있다"

— To hold the key/solution to a problem.

그가 이번 사건의 해답을 쥐고 있는 인물이다.

Neutral

"해답을 꿰뚫다"

— To see through to the solution; to have deep insight.

그는 복잡한 문제의 해답을 단번에 꿰뚫었다.

Literary

"해답을 향해 가다"

— To move toward a resolution.

우리는 조금씩 해답을 향해 가고 있습니다.

Neutral

"해답의 실마리"

— A clue or a thread leading to a solution.

드디어 해답의 실마리를 찾은 것 같아요.

Neutral

"해답을 안겨주다"

— To provide someone with a satisfying solution.

이번 결과는 우리에게 큰 해답을 안겨주었다.

Neutral

"해답을 짜내다"

— To squeeze out/struggle to find a solution.

밤새 머리를 맞대고 해답을 짜냈어요.

Informal

"해답을 덮다"

— To hide or suppress the solution/truth.

권력은 진실에 대한 해답을 덮으려 했다.

Formal

"해답을 묻다"

— To ask for a solution (metaphorically).

우리는 자연에게 해답을 물어야 합니다.

Literary

"해답을 흘리다"

— To accidentally reveal or hint at the answer.

선생님께서 은근슬쩍 해답을 흘리셨다.

Informal

Easily Confused

해답 vs 답변

Both mean 'answer'.

'답변' is a formal reply to a query, while '해답' is the solution to a problem.

그의 답변은 충분했지만, 해답은 되지 못했다.

해답 vs 해설

Often found together in books.

'해설' is the commentary/explanation, whereas '해답' is the actual result/solution.

해설을 읽으면 해답을 이해할 수 있다.

해답 vs 응답

Both relate to responding.

'응답' is a reaction or signal response, while '해답' is a logical resolution.

무전기 응답은 있었지만 해답은 찾지 못했다.

해답 vs 해법

Both start with '해' and relate to solving.

'해법' is the method (how to), '해답' is the result (what is).

새로운 해법으로 정확한 해답을 얻었다.

해답 vs 대안

Both solve a problem.

'대안' is a substitute or secondary plan, while '해답' is the primary logical answer.

해답이 없을 때는 대안을 찾아야 한다.

Sentence Patterns

이것은 [Noun] 해답이에요.

이것은 수학 해답이에요.

[Noun]의 해답을 찾아요.

문제의 해답을 찾아요.

[Noun]에 대한 해답을 얻다.

질문에 대한 해답을 얻다.

[Adjective] 해답을 제시하다.

명확한 해답을 제시하다.

[Noun]에서 해답을 구하다.

과거에서 해답을 구하다.

[Noun]의 궁극적인 해답은 ~에 있다.

인간 소외의 궁극적인 해답은 사랑에 있다.

해답을 보지 마세요.

해답이 나오기를 기다려요.

Word Family

Nouns

해답지 (answer sheet)

해설 (commentary/explanation)

해법 (method of solving)

Verbs

해석하다 (to interpret/solve)

해결하다 (to solve/resolve)

해소하다 (to relieve/resolve)

Adjectives

해박하다 (to be knowledgeable/erudite)

문제 (problem)

질문 (question)

정답 (correct answer)

오답 (wrong answer)

답안 (draft answer)

How to Use It

frequency

High, especially in educational and professional environments.

Common Mistakes

Using '해답' for a verbal reply. → 대답
'해답' is a solution to a problem; '대답' is a reply to a person's call or question.
Using '해답' for a multiple-choice answer. → 정답
'정답' is the specific 'right' choice; '해답' is the explanation of the solution.
Saying '해답하다' as a verb. → 해답을 찾다 / 대답하다
'해답' is a noun and is rarely used as a verb with '하다'. Use '해답을 찾다' or '대답하다' depending on context.
Confusing '해답' with '해결책' in policy contexts. → 해결책
While similar, '해결책' is better for practical measures, while '해답' is better for conceptual answers.
Using '해답' for 'the answer to a phone call'. → 전화를 받다
'해답' has nothing to do with telephones. It is strictly about solving problems.

Tips

Textbook Master

When studying Korean, look for the word '해답' in the table of contents. It will lead you to the answer key.

Don't be too dramatic

Using '해답' for a simple question like 'What's for lunch?' is too heavy. Use '답' or just answer the question.

Particle Choice

Always try to use '~에 대한 해답' (Answer regarding...). it sounds much more natural than just putting two nouns together.

The 'Hae' family

Remember that '해' (解) means to solve. Words like 해결 (resolve), 해석 (interpret), and 해답 (answer) are all cousins.

Business Logic

In a meeting, say '우리는 근본적인 해답을 찾아야 합니다' to show you are thinking about long-term success.

Untie the Knot

Visualize the '해' as a hand untying a knot. The '답' is the result of that untying.

Essay Structure

Start your conclusion with '이 문제에 대한 해답은 다음과 같습니다' (The answer to this problem is as follows).

Empathy

When a friend has a problem, saying '같이 해답을 찾아보자' (Let's find the answer together) is very supportive.

News Keywords

When you hear '해답' in the news, get ready for the summary or the conclusion of the story.

Hopelessness

If someone says '노답' (no-dap), it's a slang version of '해답이 없다'. It's very common among young people.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of 'Hae' as 'Hae-nd' (Hand) and 'Dap' as 'Tap'. You use your HAND to TAP the logic needed to find the answer to a hard problem.

Visual Association

Imagine a giant tangled knot being cut by a pair of scissors labeled '해답'. The result is a clear, straight line.

Word Web

해답 (Solution) 문제 (Problem) 논리 (Logic) 해설 (Explanation) 정답 (Correct Answer) 해결 (Resolution) 찾다 (Find) 제시 (Present)

Challenge

Try to write three sentences about a problem you solved today using '해답을 찾았다.' Use one for a physical problem and two for abstract ones.

Word Origin

Composed of two Sino-Korean characters (Hanja): 解 (해) and 答 (답).

Original meaning: 解 means 'to loosen, untie, or explain,' while 答 means 'to answer or reply.' Together, they mean an answer that unties a knot.

Sino-Korean (Hanja-based)

Cultural Context

No specific sensitivities, but avoid using '해답' for simple conversational replies as it can sound overly formal or robotic.

In English, 'solution' and 'answer' are often interchangeable. In Korean, '해답' is more intellectual than 'answer' but more conceptual than 'solution.'

The book 'The Answer' (해답) by various self-help authors translated into Korean. The phrase '현장에 해답이 있다' (The answer is in the field) popularized by Korean business leaders. K-Drama 'Misaeng' which deals with finding '해답' in the workplace.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Education/School

해답지를 봐도 돼요?
수학 문제 해답
해답이 틀렸어요
해답을 맞춰보자

Business/Professional

위기의 해답을 찾다
해답을 제시해 보세요
고객 중심의 해답
혁신적인 해답

Philosophy/Life

인생의 해답
행복의 해답
해답이 없는 질문
진리를 향한 해답

News/Society

사회적 해답
환경 위기의 해답
정치적 해답
근본적인 해답

Daily Interaction

해답이 안 보여
너만의 해답
해답을 얻었어
해답을 알려줘

Conversation Starters

"인생에서 가장 찾고 싶은 해답은 무엇인가요? (What is the answer you want to find most in life?)"

"이 수학 문제의 해답을 같이 찾아볼까요? (Shall we find the solution to this math problem together?)"

"환경 오염에 대한 해답은 무엇이라고 생각하세요? (What do you think is the answer to environmental pollution?)"

"어려운 일이 있을 때 어디에서 해답을 얻나요? (Where do you get answers when you have a difficult time?)"

"해답지가 없는 인생이 더 재미있을까요? (Do you think life without an answer key would be more fun?)"

Journal Prompts

오늘 내가 마주한 문제와 그에 대한 해답을 적어보세요. (Write about a problem you faced today and its solution.)

내가 생각하는 '행복한 삶'에 대한 해답은 무엇인가요? (What is your answer to a 'happy life'?)

책이나 영화를 통해 얻은 가장 인상 깊은 해답은 무엇인가요? (What is the most impressive answer you got from a book or movie?)

누군가에게 해답을 제시해 주었던 경험을 공유해 보세요. (Share an experience where you suggested a solution to someone.)

해답이 없는 문제에 직면했을 때 어떻게 행동하나요? (How do you act when faced with a problem that has no answer?)

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

No, '해답' is not used for social responses. For answering the phone, use '전화를 받다' (receive a call) or '대답하다' (to reply) if someone calls your name.

A '해답지' (haedap-ji) is the answer key with explanations provided by the book. A '답안지' (dapan-ji) is the blank sheet where you write your own answers during a test.

Yes, '답' is a general, short form. '해답' sounds more intellectual, thorough, and formal. You would use '해답' in an essay, but '답' in a quick conversation.

Yes, it is very common. You can say '사랑에 대한 해답' (The answer to love) or '고민의 해답' (The solution to my worries).

On a test, '정답' is what gets you points. However, a '해답' is what helps you learn because it explains *why* the '정답' is correct.

You say '해답이 없다' or more commonly '답이 없다'. Using '해답' makes it sound slightly more formal, while '답이 없다' is very common slang for 'hopeless'.

Yes, scientists use '해답' to refer to the resolution of a hypothesis or a complex calculation.

The most common verbs are '찾다' (to find), '제시하다' (to present), '얻다' (to obtain), and '있다' (to exist).

Yes, the solution to a riddle is a '해답'.

It is moderately common. You hear it in school every day and in news/media frequently.