결재하다 in 30 Seconds
- To give official approval.
- Used in business and administrative settings.
- Means to authorize or sanction a document or request.
The Korean verb 결재하다 (gyeol-jae-ha-da) is a crucial term in professional and administrative environments. It translates to 'to approve,' 'to sanction,' or 'to authorize.' When someone 결재하다s something, they are giving their official consent and signifying that a document, request, or decision has been reviewed and meets the necessary criteria for approval.
Think of it as the final step in a process where a superior or designated person gives the 'go-ahead.' This word is most commonly encountered in workplaces, government offices, and any situation that involves formal procedures and decision-making. For instance, an employee might submit a report or a purchase request, and their manager or a specific department will then 결재하다 it.
The act of 결재하다 often involves reviewing paperwork, digital forms, or proposals. It's not just a casual agreement; it's a formal act of validation. The person performing the 결재하다 is taking responsibility for the approved item. This could range from approving a vacation request to authorizing a large budget expenditure. The context is almost always one of hierarchy and official capacity.
Understanding 결재하다 is essential for anyone working in or interacting with Korean business culture. It highlights the importance of formal processes and the authority vested in certain roles. Without this approval, a task or request cannot proceed. It’s the seal of official confirmation.
- Key Concepts
- Formal Approval: The core meaning is official sanction.
- Workplace Context: Primarily used in professional settings.
- Review and Authorization: Implies a review process before granting permission.
- Hierarchical Process: Often involves someone in a position of authority.
The manager needs to 결재하다 this project proposal.
Without the director's 결재하다, the purchase cannot proceed.
Using 결재하다 correctly involves understanding its typical sentence structures, which usually place the object of approval before the verb. Common sentence patterns involve subjects performing the action of approving on specific items.
A standard structure is: [Subject] + [Object] + 결재하다. The subject is typically a person in a position of authority (e.g., manager, director, president), and the object is the item requiring approval.
Consider these examples:
팀장님이 제 보고서를 결재했습니다.
The team leader approved my report. 회사는 새로운 프로젝트를 결재할 예정입니다.
The company plans to approve the new project. 이 지출안은 아직 결재되지 않았습니다.
This expenditure proposal has not yet been approved. 사장님의 결재를 기다리고 있습니다.
We are waiting for the president's approval.
The verb can be conjugated in various tenses and moods. For example, to express the act of approval, you might use 결재했습니다 (approved), 결재할 것입니다
(will approve), or 결재되어야 (must be approved).The noun form, 결재 (approval), is also frequently used, often with verbs like '받다' (to receive) or '기다리다' (to wait for). For instance, '결재를 받다' means 'to receive approval'.
You will most frequently encounter 결재하다 in formal business and administrative settings. This includes:
- Workplace Meetings: Discussions about project proposals, budget requests, or policy changes often involve the need for someone to 결재하다 them.
- Internal Communications: Emails, memos, and internal chat messages within companies will frequently use this term when referring to the approval process for documents or tasks.
- Official Documents: Forms, reports, and applications that require a signature or stamp of approval will use 결재하다 to describe the action of the approving authority.
- Government Offices: When dealing with permits, licenses, or any official application that needs to be sanctioned by a government official, this word is commonly used.
- Financial Institutions: Loan applications, transaction requests, and other financial matters that require authorization will involve 결재하다.
- Legal Settings: While less common for everyday speech, legal documents or contracts might refer to the approval or ratification process using this verb.
Imagine a scenario where an employee is presenting a new marketing campaign idea to their superior. The superior reviews the proposal and then states, '이 캠페인 계획을 결재하겠습니다.' (I will approve this campaign plan.) This clearly illustrates the word's usage in a decision-making context.
Another common situation is when a request is pending. Someone might ask, '제 휴가 신청이 결재되었나요?' (Has my vacation request been approved?) Here, the noun form '결재' is used, referring to the state of being approved.
The team is waiting for the 결재 of the budget report.
In essence, any time you hear about official sign-offs, authorizations, or sanctions within a structured environment, 결재하다 is likely to be involved.
While 결재하다 is a straightforward verb, learners can sometimes make mistakes, especially regarding its specific context and pronunciation.
- Pronunciation Errors
- The syllable '재' (jae) can be tricky. Some learners might pronounce it too much like 'je' or 'ji', or incorrectly stress the syllable. Ensuring the correct 'ae' vowel sound and stress on the second syllable is important.
- Confusion with Similar Words
- The most common confusion is with the word 결백하다 (gyeol-baek-ha-da), which means 'to be innocent.' The pronunciations are quite different, but if spoken quickly or unclearly, a mistake could occur. Another similar-sounding word is 결속하다 (gyeol-sok-ha-da), meaning 'to unite' or 'to bind.' These words have distinct meanings and contexts, so it's crucial to differentiate them.
- Contextual Misuse
- A frequent mistake is using 결재하다 in informal or personal situations. This verb is reserved for official, administrative, or business approvals. You wouldn't use it to describe a friend approving your outfit or a parent approving a casual outing. For those, other verbs like '허락하다' (to permit) or '승인하다' (to approve, more general) might be more appropriate depending on nuance.
- Grammatical Errors
- Forgetting the object marker '를/을' when the verb is used transitively can be an error. Also, using it in passive voice without proper conjugation (e.g., '결재되다' for 'to be approved') can lead to mistakes if not applied correctly.
Incorrect: 친구가 내 옷을 결재했어요.
Correct: 친구가 내 옷을 칭찬했어요.
While 결재하다 is specific to official approval, several other Korean words share similar meanings or are used in related contexts. Understanding these nuances helps in choosing the most appropriate term.
- 승인하다 (Seung-in-ha-da)
- This is a very common and broader term for 'to approve' or 'to sanction.' It can be used in both formal and slightly less formal business contexts, and even for personal approvals in some situations. 결재하다 is a specific type of 승인하다 within an administrative workflow.
- 허락하다 (Heo-rak-ha-da)
- This verb means 'to permit' or 'to allow.' It's generally used for personal permissions, like a parent allowing a child to go out, or granting permission for a less formal request. It lacks the official, bureaucratic weight of 결재하다.
- 인정하다 (In-jeong-ha-da)
- This means 'to acknowledge,' 'to recognize,' or 'to admit.' While it can imply acceptance, it's not a formal approval in the same way 결재하다 is. You might '인정하다' someone's effort, but you would '결재하다' their expense report.
- 인가하다 (In-ga-ha-da)
- This word also means 'to approve' or 'to authorize,' but it's often used for official government permits, licenses, or certifications. It carries a strong sense of official sanction from an authority, similar to 결재하다, but perhaps more focused on regulatory approval.
- 비교 (Comparison)
-
- 결재하다: Official approval within an organization's workflow (e.g., expense reports, project proposals).
- 승인하다: General approval, can be formal or less formal. Broader than 결재하다.
- 허락하다: Personal permission, allowing someone to do something.
- 인가하다: Official authorization, often by government bodies for permits/licenses.
The director will 결재하다 the budget.
The government 인가했습니다 the new restaurant's license.
How Formal Is It?
Fun Fact
Interestingly, the character '裁' (jae) is also used in words related to tailoring or cutting fabric, suggesting a sense of 'cutting' or 'deciding' on the right course of action. In the context of '결재하다,' it signifies the decisive act of sanctioning or approving.
Pronunciation Guide
- Mispronouncing the '재' syllable, often by making it too harsh or too soft.
- Omitting the aspiration in '하' (ha).
- Incorrectly placing stress on other syllables.
- Confusing it with similar-sounding words if pronunciation is not precise.
Difficulty Rating
At the A2 CEFR level, understanding '결재하다' in simple, direct sentences is achievable. However, complex sentence structures or nuanced contexts might pose challenges for beginners. Recognizing the word in written texts within its typical business or administrative context is key.
What to Learn Next
Prerequisites
Learn Next
Advanced
Grammar to Know
Object Marking Particle (를/을)
The verb '결재하다' is transitive and takes a direct object, which is marked by the particle '를' (after a vowel) or '을' (after a consonant). For example: 보고서를 결재하다 (to approve the report).
Passive Voice Formation (되다/받다)
To express that something is approved, you can use the passive form '결재되다' (to be approved) or '결재받다' (to receive approval). For example: 서류가 결재되었습니다. (The document was approved.)
Future Tense (ㄹ/을 것이다)
To indicate that an approval will happen in the future, use the future tense ending 'ㄹ 것이다' or '을 것이다' attached to the verb stem. For example: 다음 주에 결재할 것입니다. (It will be approved next week.)
Request/Imperative (세요/아/어요)
To ask someone to approve something, use the imperative or request form. For example: 이 서류를 결재해주세요. (Please approve this document.)
Noun Usage (결재)
The noun form '결재' is often used with verbs like '받다' (to receive), '기다리다' (to wait for), or '필요하다' (to need). For example: 결재를 기다립니다. (I am waiting for approval.)
Examples by Level
사장님이 제 신청서를 결재했어요.
The boss approved my application.
Past tense of '결재하다'. '신청서' (application) is the object.
이 서류는 누가 결재해야 합니까?
Who needs to approve this document?
'결재해야 하다' - needs to approve. '누가' (who) is the subject.
프로젝트 계획을 결재해주세요.
Please approve the project plan.
Imperative form using the noun '결재' with '해주세요' (please do for me).
아직 결재되지 않았어요.
It hasn't been approved yet.
Passive form: '결재되다' (to be approved) + negative past tense. '아직' means 'yet'.
팀장님이 보고서를 결재했습니다.
The team leader approved the report.
Similar to the first example, using '보고서' (report) as the object.
이 지출은 결재가 필요합니다.
This expenditure requires approval.
Using the noun '결재' with '필요하다' (to need).
다음 단계로 넘어가려면 결재를 받아야 해요.
We need to get approval to move to the next step.
'결재를 받다' - to receive approval. '다음 단계' means 'next step'.
관리자가 모든 문서를 결재할 것입니다.
The manager will approve all documents.
Future tense of '결재하다' using '것입니다'.
신제품 출시 계획을 결재하는 데 시간이 좀 걸렸습니다.
It took some time to approve the new product launch plan.
Using the noun form '결재' with '하는 데 시간이 걸리다' (it took time to do).
제안된 예산안은 이사회의 결재를 기다리고 있습니다.
The proposed budget is awaiting the board of directors' approval.
'기다리다' (to wait for) + object '결재'. '이사회의' means 'of the board of directors'.
그는 모든 업무에 대해 신속하게 결재하는 것으로 유명합니다.
He is known for quickly approving all tasks.
Using an adverb '신속하게' (quickly) with the verb. '업무' means 'tasks' or 'work'.
승인되지 않은 지출은 결재될 수 없습니다.
Unapproved expenditures cannot be approved.
Using the passive form '결재되다' with the modal verb '수 없다' (cannot).
이 계약을 결재하기 전에 모든 조항을 검토해야 합니다.
We must review all clauses before approving this contract.
Using the verb in a subordinate clause with '전에' (before). '조항' means 'clauses'.
상사의 결재 없이는 이 프로젝트를 진행할 수 없습니다.
We cannot proceed with this project without the boss's approval.
'~없이' (without) + noun '결재'. '진행하다' means 'to proceed'.
그 회사는 전자 결재 시스템을 도입했습니다.
That company introduced an electronic approval system.
Using '전자 결재' (electronic approval) as a compound noun. '도입하다' means 'to introduce'.
본인의 결재가 있어야만 업무를 시작할 수 있습니다.
We can only start the work with one's own approval.
'~가 있어야만' (only if there is) + noun '결재'. '본인' means 'oneself'.
회사의 재무 건전성을 위해 모든 주요 지출은 반드시 결재 과정을 거쳐야 합니다.
For the company's financial soundness, all major expenditures must go through the approval process.
Using '과정을 거치다' (to go through a process) with the noun '결재'. '재무 건전성' means 'financial soundness'.
그는 까다로운 결재권자였지만, 결국에는 프로젝트를 승인했습니다.
He was a demanding approver, but in the end, he approved the project.
'결재권자' (approver/person with approval authority). '까다로운' means 'demanding/picky'.
정부 지원금 신청에 대한 최종 결재는 다음 달에 이루어질 예정입니다.
The final approval for the government subsidy application is scheduled for next month.
'이루어지다' (to take place/be done) with '예정입니다' (is scheduled). '정부 지원금' means 'government subsidy'.
업무 효율성을 높이기 위해 결재 단계를 간소화하는 방안을 검토 중입니다.
We are considering ways to simplify the approval stages to increase work efficiency.
'간소화하다' (to simplify). '방안' means 'plan/measure'. '검토 중이다' (is under review).
그의 제안은 복잡한 결재 절차 때문에 지연될 수밖에 없었습니다.
His proposal was inevitably delayed due to the complex approval procedure.
'절차' (procedure). '지연될 수밖에 없었다' (inevitably had to be delayed).
회사의 윤리 강령에 따라, 모든 결재는 투명하게 이루어져야 합니다.
According to the company's code of ethics, all approvals must be transparent.
'윤리 강령' (code of ethics). '투명하게' (transparently). '이루어져야 한다' (must be done).
그는 승진을 위해 필요한 모든 서류를 결재받아야 했습니다.
He had to get all the necessary documents approved for his promotion.
'승진' (promotion). '결재받다' (to receive approval) in a past obligation context.
이 사업 계획의 성공 여부는 최종 결재에 달려 있습니다.
The success of this business plan depends on the final approval.
'성공 여부' (whether it succeeds or not). '달려 있다' (to depend on).
이번 사안의 결재는 관련 부서 간의 긴밀한 협의를 통해 신속하게 처리될 것으로 예상됩니다.
The approval of this matter is expected to be processed swiftly through close consultation between the relevant departments.
'사안' (matter/issue). '긴밀한 협의' (close consultation). '신속하게 처리되다' (to be processed swiftly).
과도한 결재 절차는 혁신적인 아이디어의 시장 진입을 저해할 수 있습니다.
Excessive approval procedures can hinder the market entry of innovative ideas.
'과도한' (excessive). '혁신적인 아이디어' (innovative ideas). '시장 진입' (market entry). '저해하다' (to hinder).
그는 관료주의적 결재 시스템에 대한 비판적인 시각을 견지해왔습니다.
He has maintained a critical perspective on the bureaucratic approval system.
'관료주의적' (bureaucratic). '비판적인 시각' (critical perspective). '견지하다' (to maintain/hold).
회사의 모든 중대 결정은 이사회에서 결재되며, 이는 책임 소재를 명확히 합니다.
All major company decisions are approved by the board of directors, which clarifies accountability.
'중대 결정' (major decisions). '책임 소재' (accountability). '명확히 하다' (to clarify).
디지털 전환 시대에 맞춰, 우리는 결재 프로세스를 더욱 효율화하고 자동화할 필요가 있습니다.
In line with the digital transformation era, we need to further streamline and automate the approval process.
'디지털 전환 시대' (digital transformation era). '효율화하다' (to streamline/make efficient). '자동화하다' (to automate).
그는 자신의 결재가 가져올 잠재적 위험을 신중하게 고려했습니다.
He carefully considered the potential risks his approval would bring.
'잠재적 위험' (potential risks). '신중하게 고려하다' (to carefully consider).
이 프로젝트는 여러 단계의 결재를 거쳐야만 최종적으로 실행될 수 있습니다.
This project can only be finally executed after going through several stages of approval.
'단계' (stage). '최종적으로 실행되다' (to be finally executed).
그는 사소한 문제에 대해서는 결재를 위임하는 것을 선호했습니다.
He preferred to delegate approval for minor issues.
'사소한 문제' (minor issues). '위임하다' (to delegate). '선호하다' (to prefer).
복잡다단한 현대 사회에서 결재 시스템은 단순한 승인을 넘어 조직의 의사결정 구조와 문화 전반을 반영하는 지표가 됩니다.
In the complex modern society, the approval system goes beyond simple sanctioning and becomes an indicator reflecting the organization's decision-making structure and overall culture.
'복잡다단한' (complex/multifaceted). '의사결정 구조' (decision-making structure). '문화 전반' (overall culture). '지표' (indicator).
그는 자신의 결재 권한을 행사함에 있어 항상 윤리적 정당성과 공공의 이익을 최우선으로 고려하는 원칙을 고수했습니다.
In exercising his approval authority, he always adhered to the principle of prioritizing ethical legitimacy and public interest.
'권한을 행사하다' (to exercise authority). '윤리적 정당성' (ethical legitimacy). '공공의 이익' (public interest). '최우선으로 고려하다' (to prioritize). '원칙을 고수하다' (to adhere to a principle).
디지털 서명 기술의 발전은 결재 프로세스의 신속성과 보안성을 획기적으로 향상시켰습니다.
The advancement of digital signature technology has dramatically improved the speed and security of the approval process.
'디지털 서명 기술' (digital signature technology). '획기적으로 향상시키다' (to dramatically improve). '신속성' (speed/promptness). '보안성' (security).
조직 내 결재 문화는 구성원들의 창의성과 자율성을 얼마나 존중하는지에 따라 그 생산성이 크게 좌우됩니다.
The approval culture within an organization is heavily influenced by how much it respects the creativity and autonomy of its members, thereby affecting its productivity.
'구성원' (members). '창의성' (creativity). '자율성' (autonomy). '존중하다' (to respect). '생산성' (productivity). '좌우되다' (to be influenced/determined by).
그는 직무상의 결재 과정에서 발생할 수 있는 모든 잠재적 편향성을 제거하기 위해 다층적인 검토 절차를 마련했습니다.
He established a multi-layered review process to eliminate any potential biases that could arise during the professional approval process.
'직무상' (professional/work-related). '잠재적 편향성' (potential bias). '제거하다' (to eliminate). '다층적인 검토 절차' (multi-layered review process). '마련하다' (to establish/prepare).
기업의 지속 가능한 성장을 위해서는 결재 시스템이 단순한 행정 절차를 넘어 전략적 의사결정의 핵심 동력으로 기능해야 합니다.
For a company's sustainable growth, the approval system must function not just as an administrative procedure but as a core driver of strategic decision-making.
'지속 가능한 성장' (sustainable growth). '핵심 동력' (core driver). '전략적 의사결정' (strategic decision-making). '기능하다' (to function).
그는 기존의 경직된 결재 문화를 타파하고, 보다 유연하고 신속한 의사결정 체계를 구축하는 데 앞장섰습니다.
He spearheaded the dismantling of the rigid existing approval culture and the establishment of a more flexible and swift decision-making system.
'경직된' (rigid). '타파하다' (to dismantle/break down). '유연한' (flexible). '신속한' (swift). '의사결정 체계' (decision-making system). '구축하다' (to establish/build). '앞장서다' (to take the lead).
성공적인 결재는 단순히 권한 있는 자의 서명을 받는 것을 넘어, 관련된 모든 이해관계자들의 합의를 도출하는 과정이라 할 수 있습니다.
Successful approval can be said to be a process that goes beyond merely obtaining the signature of an authorized person, but rather derives the consensus of all relevant stakeholders.
'이해관계자' (stakeholder). '합의를 도출하다' (to derive consensus). '과정이라 할 수 있습니다' (can be said to be a process).
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
— Please approve (it).
이 신청서를 결재해주세요. (Please approve this application.)
— I/He/She/They approved (it).
팀장님이 제 보고서를 결재했습니다. (The team leader approved my report.)
— Approval is needed.
이 지출은 결재가 필요합니다. (This expenditure needs approval.)
— I am waiting for approval.
사장님의 결재를 기다립니다. (I am waiting for the president's approval.)
— It has been approved.
신청서가 마침내 결재되었습니다. (The application has finally been approved.)
— To follow the approval line/process.
모든 문서는 결재 라인을 따라야 합니다. (All documents must follow the approval line.)
— To receive approval.
프로젝트를 시작하기 전에 결재를 받아야 합니다. (Before starting the project, we need to receive approval.)
— To not be approved / To be unapproved.
아직 결재되지 않은 서류가 많습니다. (There are many documents that have not yet been approved.)
— To have approval authority.
이 사람은 이 프로젝트에 대한 결재 권한이 있습니다. (This person has approval authority for this project.)
— To postpone approval.
그는 결재를 미루고 더 많은 정보를 원했습니다. (He postponed the approval and wanted more information.)
Often Confused With
This word means 'to be innocent.' The pronunciation is quite different, but learners might confuse them if not careful. '결재하다' is about approval, while '결백하다' is about guilt or innocence.
'승인하다' is a more general term for approval and can be used in broader contexts than '결재하다,' which is specifically for administrative/bureaucratic approvals.
'허락하다' means 'to permit' or 'to allow' and is typically used for personal permissions, not formal business approvals.
Idioms & Expressions
— Literally 'to stamp,' but in a business context, it often implies giving final approval, similar to '결재하다.' It signifies the official sign-off.
이 서류에 도장 찍어주세요.
Informal but common in business— To put something on the approval line; to submit something for approval by higher authorities.
이 제안서를 결재선에 올려야 합니다.
Formal business jargon— It only needs the approval stamp; it's almost done/approved.
이제 서류 검토가 끝났으니, 결재 도장만 찍으면 됩니다.
Informal business context— To hold the power of approval; to be in a position to approve or reject.
그 부장은 결재권을 쥐고 있어서 모두 그에게 잘 보이려고 합니다.
Formal business context— To go through the proper approval channels; to follow the established hierarchy for approval.
이 사안은 반드시 결재 라인을 타야 합니다.
Formal business jargon— Approval has been granted/given (often implies it came from a higher authority).
드디어 예산 결재가 떨어졌어요!
Informal but common in business— A physical or digital inbox for documents awaiting approval.
제 서류가 결재 서류함에 있는지 확인해주세요.
Business jargon— To bypass the official approval channels.
그는 결재 라인을 우회해서 직접 사장에게 보고했습니다.
Informal, often negative connotation— Similar to '결재 도장만 찍으면 된다,' emphasizing the finality and ease of the last step.
마지막 검토만 남았으니, 결재 도장만 쾅 찍으면 끝이야.
Very informal, often used among colleagues— To pile up approval documents; to delay the approval process by not processing documents.
팀장은 바쁘다는 핑계로 결재 서류를 쌓아두고 있습니다.
Informal business contextEasily Confused
Both verbs mean 'to approve' and are used in formal contexts.
'결재하다' specifically refers to the official approval process within a hierarchical system, often involving paperwork or formal procedures (like signing off on expense reports or project proposals). '승인하다' is a broader term for approval and can be used in more general situations, including less formal ones or when the process is not strictly bureaucratic.
팀장님이 보고서를 <mark>결재했습니다</mark>. (The team leader approved the report - specific administrative approval). <br> 회사가 신제품 출시를 <mark>승인했습니다</mark>. (The company approved the new product launch - broader approval).
Both involve giving permission.
'결재하다' is for official, administrative, or business approvals, often involving a review process and a position of authority. '허락하다' is for personal permissions, like a parent allowing a child to go out, or granting informal consent. It lacks the formal, bureaucratic weight of '결재하다'.
부모님께서 외출을 <mark>허락해주셨어요</mark>. (My parents permitted me to go out.) <br> 이 지출은 <mark>결재가</mark> 필요합니다. (This expenditure requires approval.)
Both mean 'to approve' or 'to authorize.'
'결재하다' is typically used for internal company approvals or administrative decisions within an organization. '인가하다' is often used for official government permits, licenses, or certifications that are granted by a public authority. It implies a regulatory or legal sanction.
정부에서 이 사업에 대한 <mark>인가를</mark> 내주었습니다. (The government issued a permit/authorization for this business.) <br> 이 서류는 팀장님의 <mark>결재를</mark> 받아야 합니다. (This document needs the team leader's approval.)
It is the direct opposite action of approval in formal settings.
'결재하다' means to approve, to sanction. '반려하다' means to reject, to deny approval, or to return a document for revision without approving it. It is the antonym in the context of official review and authorization.
그의 제안은 <mark>결재</mark>되지 않고 <mark>반려되었습니다</mark>. (His proposal was not approved and was rejected.)
Phonetically similar, especially for beginners.
'결재하다' means to approve or sanction. '결백하다' means to be innocent or blameless. They have completely different meanings and are used in entirely different contexts. One is about administrative action, the other about moral or legal status.
그는 무죄를 <mark>결백하다</mark>고 주장했습니다. (He claimed his innocence.) <br> 이 보고서는 <mark>결재</mark>가 필요합니다. (This report needs approval.)
Sentence Patterns
[Subject] + [Object] + 를/을 + 결재하다.
팀장님이 제 보고서를 <mark>결재했습니다</mark>.
[Object] + 가/이 + 결재되다.
제 신청서가 <mark>결재되었습니다</mark>.
[Subject] + 의 + 결재 + 를 + 기다리다.
우리는 사장님의 <mark>결재를 기다리고</mark> 있습니다.
[Object] + 는 + 결재 + 가 + 필요하다.
이 지출은 <mark>결재가 필요합니다</mark>.
[Subject] + 는 + [Object] + 를 + 결재하기 + 위해 + [Action].
그는 회의를 <mark>결재하기 위해</mark> 꼼꼼히 검토했습니다.
[Subject] + 가 + [Object] + 를 + 결재 + 할 + 수 + 없다.
승인 없이는 이 프로젝트를 <mark>결재할 수</mark> 없습니다.
본 + [Object] + 는 + [Process] + 를 + 거쳐 + 결재되다.
본 프로젝트는 여러 단계의 <mark>결재를 거쳐</mark> 승인되었습니다.
[Subject] + 는 + [Object] + 의 + 결재 + 를 + 얻기 + 위해 + [Effort].
그는 복잡한 <mark>결재를 얻기 위해</mark> 많은 노력을 기울였습니다.
Word Family
Nouns
Verbs
Related
How to Use It
High in business and administrative contexts.
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Using '결재하다' for personal permissions.
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Use '허락하다' or '승인하다' (in some cases) for personal permissions.
'결재하다' is strictly for official, administrative, or business approvals within an organization. For example, saying 'My friend approved my outfit' using '결재하다' would be incorrect. You would say 'My friend complimented my outfit' or 'My friend liked my outfit.'
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Confusing '결재하다' with '결백하다'.
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'결재하다' means to approve; '결백하다' means to be innocent.
These words sound somewhat similar, especially to beginner learners. However, their meanings are entirely different. '결재하다' is an action verb related to approval, while '결백하다' is an adjective describing a state of being innocent. Always ensure you are using the correct word based on the context.
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Forgetting the object marker '를/을'.
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The object being approved must be marked with '를' or '을'.
'결재하다' is a transitive verb, meaning it acts upon an object. The object (e.g., report, application) needs the appropriate particle. For example, '보고서<mark class='bg-red-200 px-0.5 rounded'>를</mark> 결재하다' is correct, not just '보고서 결재하다'.
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Using '결재하다' when '승인하다' is more appropriate.
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'승인하다' is a more general term for approval and can be used in broader contexts.
While both mean 'to approve,' '결재하다' implies a specific, often bureaucratic, approval process within an organization. If the approval is less formal or doesn't involve a strict chain of command, '승인하다' might be a better choice. However, '결재하다' is always acceptable in its specific context.
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Incorrect pronunciation of '재' (jae).
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Pronounce '재' with a clear 'ae' vowel sound and proper stress.
The '재' syllable can be challenging. Incorrect pronunciation can lead to misunderstandings or make the word sound unnatural. Practice listening to native speakers and focus on the stress and vowel quality of this syllable.
Tips
Think Business First
Always associate '결재하다' with formal business or administrative settings. It's the verb for when a boss or authorized person officially signs off on something important like a report or a budget.
Master the 'Jae' Sound
The syllable '재' (jae) is crucial. Practice pronouncing it clearly with the correct 'ae' vowel sound and ensure the stress falls on this syllable: 결재하다.
Learn Related Nouns
Memorize key nouns associated with '결재하다' such as '결재' (approval), '결재권자' (approver), and '결재 서류' (approval document). This will help you understand and use the verb more effectively.
Object Markers Matter
Remember that '결재하다' is a transitive verb. The item being approved is the direct object and must be followed by the correct object marker: '를' or '을'. For example, '보고서를 결재하다'.
Distinguish from General Approval
While '승인하다' also means 'to approve,' '결재하다' implies a more structured, hierarchical, and often bureaucratic process. Use '결재하다' for official sign-offs within a company's workflow.
Visualize the Stamp
Imagine a red official stamp with the Korean characters '결재' on it. Visualize someone using this stamp to finalize a document. This visual cue can help you remember the meaning and context.
Role-Play Scenarios
Practice making sentences where you are asking for or giving approval in a business setting. For example, '팀장님, 이 서류 좀 결재해주세요.' (Team leader, please approve this document.)
Understand the Hierarchy
The concept of '결재 라인' (approval line) is important in Korean business culture. Understanding this hierarchy helps explain why '결재하다' is such a significant action.
Know the Opposite
The direct opposite of approving something in this context is '반려하다' (to reject/deny). Knowing antonyms helps solidify the meaning of the word.
Ask 'Who Approves What?'
When you encounter '결재하다,' ask yourself: Who is doing the approving? What are they approving? This active questioning reinforces the word's usage.
Memorize It
Mnemonic
Imagine a king (or a very important boss) wearing a crown ('결' sounds a bit like crown) and holding a large stamp ('재' sounds a bit like stamp, or a decisive 'yes'). He is stamping documents to approve them. The king's stamp is the final '결재'.
Visual Association
Picture a large, official desk with a pile of documents. A hand is reaching for a prominent red stamp, ready to apply it to a document. The stamp itself could be shaped like a '결' or '재'.
Word Web
Challenge
Try to imagine a scenario where you need to get something approved in a Korean office. What would you submit? Who would you submit it to? What would they do to approve it? Use the word '결재하다' in your description.
Word Origin
The word '결재' (gyeoljae) is a Sino-Korean word derived from Chinese characters. '結' (gyeol) means 'to tie,' 'to conclude,' or 'to bind,' and '裁' (jae) means 'to cut,' 'to decide,' or 'to judge.' Together, they imply a final decision or a binding conclusion reached after judgment.
Original meaning: The combination of 'tie/conclude' and 'decide/judge' suggests the act of finalizing a decision through a formal judgment or decision-making process.
Sino-KoreanCultural Context
When using '결재하다,' be mindful of the context. It is not for casual personal approvals. Misusing it can sound overly formal or out of place in informal conversations. It is best reserved for professional or administrative scenarios.
While 'approve' or 'authorize' are direct translations, they don't fully capture the bureaucratic and hierarchical weight that '결재하다' often carries in Korean professional settings. The concept of a formal sign-off through a specific chain of command is central.
Practice in Real Life
Real-World Contexts
Submitting a vacation request.
- 휴가 신청서를 제출했습니다.
- 팀장님의 결재를 기다립니다.
- 결재가 승인되었습니다.
Requesting a purchase.
- 구매 요청서를 작성했습니다.
- 재무팀의 결재가 필요합니다.
- 이 지출은 결재되지 않았습니다.
Reviewing a project proposal.
- 프로젝트 제안서를 검토 중입니다.
- 이 계획을 결재해도 될까요?
- 결재가 완료되었습니다.
Dealing with official documents.
- 모든 서류는 결재 라인을 따라야 합니다.
- 결재 서류함이 가득 찼습니다.
- 결재가 지연되고 있습니다.
Discussing company policies.
- 새로운 정책을 결재해야 합니다.
- 이 정책은 이사회의 결재를 기다리고 있습니다.
- 결재 없이는 시행할 수 없습니다.
Conversation Starters
"What kind of documents usually require '결재하다' in your workplace?"
"Can you describe a situation where you had to '결재하다' something important?"
"How does the '결재' process work in your country's business culture?"
"What are the potential problems if a '결재' process is too slow?"
"Are there any funny or memorable experiences you've had with '결재'?"
Journal Prompts
Describe a time you successfully got a document or request approved. What was the process like? Use '결재하다' if applicable.
Imagine you are a manager. What criteria do you look for when you '결재하다' a proposal?
Write about a situation where a delay in '결재' caused problems. How could it have been avoided?
What are the key differences between '결재하다' and simply 'agreeing' to something?
If you could design the perfect '결재' system for your ideal workplace, what would it be like?
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questions'결재하다' is a more specific term referring to the official approval process within an organizational hierarchy, often involving documents and administrative procedures. '승인하다' is a broader term for approval that can be used in more general situations, including less formal ones. Think of '결재하다' as a specific type of '승인하다' that follows a defined workflow.
You should use '결재하다' when referring to formal approvals in a business, administrative, or official context. This includes approving reports, expense requests, project proposals, or any document that requires a formal sign-off from someone with authority within an organization.
Generally, no. '결재하다' is primarily used in professional and administrative settings. For personal permissions or agreements in casual conversations, you would use other verbs like '허락하다' (to permit) or '괜찮다' (it's okay).
The noun form is '결재' (gyeoljae), which means 'approval' or 'sanction.' This noun is often used with verbs like '받다' (to receive), '기다리다' (to wait for), or '필요하다' (to need).
Common mistakes include using it in informal contexts, confusing it with similar-sounding words like '결백하다' (innocent), or mispronouncing the '재' syllable. Also, forgetting the object marker '를/을' can be an error.
Yes, the passive form is '결재되다' (gyeoljae-doe-da), which means 'to be approved.' For example, 'The report was approved' would be '보고서가 결재되었습니다.'
'결재 라인' (gyeoljae line) refers to the approval hierarchy or chain of command within an organization. It indicates the sequence of people or departments through which a document or request must pass to get approved.
You can say '결재를 기다립니다' (gyeoljae-reul gidarimnida) for a formal context, or '결재 기다리고 있어요' (gyeoljae gidarigo isseoyo) for a slightly less formal one. The noun form '결재' is used here.
The most direct opposite in an administrative context is '반려하다' (ban-ryeo-ha-da), which means 'to reject' or 'to deny approval.' Another related term is '거부하다' (geo-bu-ha-da), meaning 'to refuse'.
No, '결재하다' is reserved for official, administrative, or business approvals. For personal decisions or permissions, you would use words like '허락하다' (to permit) or '승인하다' (to approve, more generally).
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Summary
결재하다 means to officially approve something, often in a professional or administrative context, like signing off on a document or a request.
- To give official approval.
- Used in business and administrative settings.
- Means to authorize or sanction a document or request.
Think Business First
Always associate '결재하다' with formal business or administrative settings. It's the verb for when a boss or authorized person officially signs off on something important like a report or a budget.
Master the 'Jae' Sound
The syllable '재' (jae) is crucial. Practice pronouncing it clearly with the correct 'ae' vowel sound and ensure the stress falls on this syllable: 결재하다.
Learn Related Nouns
Memorize key nouns associated with '결재하다' such as '결재' (approval), '결재권자' (approver), and '결재 서류' (approval document). This will help you understand and use the verb more effectively.
Object Markers Matter
Remember that '결재하다' is a transitive verb. The item being approved is the direct object and must be followed by the correct object marker: '를' or '을'. For example, '보고서를 결재하다'.
Related Content
This Word in Other Languages
More work words
주 5일제
A2A system where one works five days a week, typically Monday to Friday.
결근
A2Absence from work; not being present at work.
결근하다
A2To be absent from work.
추상적이다
A2To be abstract.
출입증
A2ID card, access card.
회계
B1The systematic recording and reporting of financial transactions.
경리
A2Accounting or bookkeeping, managing financial records.
업적
B1A notable achievement or accomplishment.
적극적이다
A2To be active, to be proactive.
적극적으로
B1In an active, proactive, or enthusiastic manner.
