At the A1 level, '도서대출' (do-seo-dae-chul) might seem like a long and difficult word. However, if you are living in Korea or planning to visit, it is a very useful word to recognize. Think of it as 'Library Borrowing.' At this stage, you don't need to use it in complex sentences. You just need to know that '도서' means 'book' and '대출' means 'borrow.' You will see this word on big signs in libraries. If you want to borrow a book, you can point to the book and say '대출해 주세요' (Please let me borrow this). It's a formal way of saying you want to take the book home. Remember, libraries in Korea are great places to study, and knowing this word helps you use their services. Just focus on the connection: Library + Book + Taking home = 도서대출. You might also see '도서대출증,' which is the card you need to show the librarian. If you have that card, you are ready to go!
At the A2 level, you can start using '도서대출' in simple sentences. You should understand that it's a formal noun. Instead of just saying '책 빌려요' (I borrow a book), you can say '도서관에서 도서대출을 해요.' This makes you sound a bit more knowledgeable about how Korean institutions work. At this level, you should also learn the word '반납' (ban-nap), which means 'return.' These two words always go together in a library. You will see signs that say '대출/반납' (Loan/Return). You can also use the word with simple grammar like '-고 싶어요' (want to). For example, '도서대출을 하고 싶어요' (I want to borrow a book). You might also start noticing that '대출' is used for other things, but for now, just keep it linked with '도서' to avoid confusion. Learning this word helps you navigate public spaces and understand basic instructions in a library setting.
At the B1 level, you should be comfortable using '도서대출' in various contexts and understanding its nuances. You should be able to talk about the rules of borrowing books. For example, you can explain how many books you can borrow or for how long. '도서대출 기간은 2주입니다' (The book borrowing period is two weeks). You should also be aware of related terms like '대출 연장' (loan extension) and '대출 예약' (loan reservation). At this level, you can distinguish between the formal '도서대출' and the casual '책 빌리기.' You might use '도서대출' when writing an email to a librarian or reading the library's website. You should also be able to understand more complex notices, such as those about late fees or lost books. Understanding the Sino-Korean roots (圖書貸出) can also help you remember the word more deeply and recognize the characters in other related words. This level is about moving from simple identification to functional usage in daily library interactions.
At the B2 level, you can use '도서대출' to discuss broader topics like library systems, public services, or even digital trends. You should be able to understand and use compound words like '무인 도서대출기' (unmanned book borrowing machine) or '상호대차' (inter-library loan). You can discuss the pros and cons of '전자도서대출' (e-book borrowing) versus physical books. Your vocabulary should include terms like '연체' (overdue) and '대출 제한' (loan restriction). At this level, you can understand news articles or reports that use '도서대출' as a metric for cultural engagement. For example, you might read a sentence like, '지역 주민들의 도서대출 빈도가 높아지고 있다' (The frequency of book borrowing among local residents is increasing). You should also be able to navigate the homonym '대출' (bank loan) without confusion, using context clues to immediately identify which meaning is intended. This level requires a high degree of fluency in both administrative and conversational contexts.
At the C1 level, your understanding of '도서대출' extends to academic and professional registers. You can analyze the '도서대출' policies of different institutions and compare them. You might use the term in a research paper or a formal presentation about education or public policy. For instance, you could discuss '도서대출 데이터 분석을 통한 이용자 행태 연구' (A study on user behavior through the analysis of book borrowing data). You are also familiar with the historical context of the word and how library systems in Korea have evolved from traditional 'Seowon' to modern digital hubs. You can use the word in sophisticated sentence structures, such as '도서대출의 용이성이 시민들의 독서율에 미치는 영향' (The impact of the ease of book borrowing on citizens' reading rates). At this level, the word is not just a vocabulary item but a tool for discussing complex societal and administrative concepts.
At the C2 level, you have a near-native command of '도서대출' and all its associated administrative, legal, and cultural nuances. You can engage in high-level debates about the ethics of '도서대출' in the age of digital copyright or the role of libraries as 'third places' in urban planning. You can understand legal documents regarding library management and the '도서대출' of sensitive or rare materials. You might even use the word metaphorically or in creative writing to describe the sharing of knowledge or ideas. Your understanding is so deep that you can identify subtle shifts in register—for example, when a librarian uses a more polite or a more bureaucratic tone when discussing '도서대출'. You are also aware of regional variations or specific terminology used in specialized libraries (like law or medical libraries). At this stage, '도서대출' is a simple element in a vast and complex linguistic repertoire that you use with absolute precision and cultural sensitivity.

도서대출 in 30 Seconds

  • 도서대출 means borrowing books from a library.
  • It is a formal term used in libraries and official contexts.
  • It is often paired with '하다' to mean 'to borrow.'
  • The opposite of 도서대출 is '반납' (return).

The term 도서대출 (圖書貸出) is a compound noun that serves as the cornerstone of library vocabulary in Korea. To understand it, we must break down the Hanja: Do (圖) meaning drawing or map, Seo (書) meaning book, Dae (貸) meaning to lend, and Chul (出) meaning to go out. Together, it literally translates to 'books being lent out.' While in English we might simply say 'borrowing a book,' the Korean term '도서대출' carries a slightly more formal, administrative weight, specifically referring to the institutional process of checking out materials from a library or a resource center.

Institutional Context
You will encounter this word on signage in public libraries, university libraries, and school media centers. It is the official term used by librarians and in automated checkout systems.

저기요, 도서대출은 어디서 하나요? (Excuse me, where can I borrow books?)

People use this word when they are engaging in the formal act of borrowing. While you might use the verb '빌리다' (to borrow) in casual conversation with a friend ('책 좀 빌려줘' - Lend me a book), '도서대출' is the term used when interacting with the system. For example, if you are looking for the 'Circulation Desk,' you would look for the sign that says '도서대출/반납' (Book Loan/Return). It is also used in digital contexts, such as '전자도서대출' (E-book borrowing), which has become increasingly popular in South Korea's highly digitized society.

Usage in Modern Tech
Many Korean subway stations now feature 'Smart Libraries' (스마트 도서관) where you can perform '무인 도서대출' (unmanned book borrowing) using your library card at a vending-machine-like kiosk.

The word is versatile. It can be used as a noun on its own to describe the service, or combined with the verb '하다' (to do) to form '도서대출을 하다' (to borrow a book). It is also frequently paired with other nouns to create compound terms like '도서대출증' (Library Card) or '도서대출 기간' (Loan Period). Understanding this word is essential for anyone living in Korea who wishes to utilize the extensive and often free public library systems available in almost every neighborhood (Dong).

이번 달 도서대출 건수가 작년보다 늘었습니다. (The number of book loans this month has increased compared to last year.)

Using 도서대출 correctly involves understanding its grammatical role as a noun and its common collocations. Since it is a formal Sino-Korean word, it often appears in written notices, official speech, or when discussing library rules. However, it is also perfectly natural in spoken Korean when you are at the library itself.

The 'Noun + 하다' Pattern
To express the action of borrowing, you simply add '하다'. Example: '도서관에서 책을 대출했어요' (I borrowed a book from the library). Note that '도서' is often dropped when the context of 'books' is already clear from the word '도서관'.

학생증이 없으면 도서대출이 불가능합니다. (If you don't have a student ID, book borrowing is impossible.)

When constructing sentences, you will often find '도서대출' as the subject of a sentence describing a state or a rule. For instance, '도서대출은 1인당 5권까지 가능합니다' (Book borrowing is possible up to 5 books per person). Here, the word acts as the topic of the sentence. In more complex sentences, you might see it modified by adjectives or other nouns: '원활한 도서대출을 위해 반납 기한을 지켜주세요' (Please keep the return deadline for smooth book borrowing).

Passive and Active Forms
You can use '도서대출이 되다' (to be borrowed/available for loan) or '도서대출을 받다' (to receive a loan/borrow). Example: '이 책은 지금 대출 중이라서 대출이 안 돼요' (This book is currently on loan, so borrowing is not possible).

In academic writing or reports, you might see statistics regarding '도서대출'. For example, '대학생들의 도서대출 패턴 분석' (An analysis of university students' book borrowing patterns). In this case, it functions as a technical term. Whether you are asking for a loan extension ('대출 연장' - loan extension) or checking your history ('대출 목록' - loan list), this word is the root of almost all library-related interactions.

You will hear 도서대출 most frequently in educational and public service environments. If you are a student at a Korean university, the library announcements will frequently use this term. For example, over the intercom, you might hear: '시험 기간 동안 도서대출 기간이 단축됩니다' (During the exam period, the book borrowing period will be shortened). This is a vital piece of information for students who rely on library resources for their studies.

공공도서관 앱을 통해 도서대출 예약을 할 수 있습니다. (You can make a book borrowing reservation through the public library app.)

In the digital world, Korean mobile apps for libraries (like '리브로피아' or individual city library apps) use '도서대출' as a primary menu item. When you open these apps, you'll see buttons for '대출 현황' (Current Loan Status) and '대출 이력' (Loan History). If you are looking for an e-book, the term '전자도서대출' will be your guide. Even in news broadcasts, when discussing cultural trends, journalists might say, '최근 전자책 도서대출이 급증하고 있습니다' (Recently, e-book borrowing is surging).

Daily Life Situations
Imagine you are at a local community center. You might see a poster saying '찾아가는 도서대출 서비스' (Mobile Book Borrowing Service). This refers to a service where a library van visits remote areas to lend books.

Finally, you might hear it in workplace settings if your company has an internal library or a partnership with a book service. HR might announce, '직원들을 위한 도서대출 복지 프로그램을 시작합니다' (We are starting a book borrowing welfare program for employees). In all these cases, '도서대출' signals a formal, organized system of resource sharing, distinguishing it from the casual act of just lending a book to a friend.

One of the most common pitfalls for learners of Korean is the confusion between 대출 (Loan) and 대여 (Rental). While both involve taking something temporarily, '대출' is almost exclusively used for libraries or financial institutions (loans), whereas '대여' is used for commercial rentals where you pay a fee, like renting a car (렌터카 대여) or a hanbok (한복 대여). Using '도서대여' isn't grammatically wrong, but it sounds like you are at a commercial book rental shop (which were common in the 90s but rare now) rather than a public library.

Homonym Confusion
As mentioned before, '대출' also means a bank loan. Beginners often get confused when they see the word '대출' in a news headline. If you see '대출 금리 인상' (Loan interest rate hike), it has nothing to do with books! Always look for the word '도서' (book) or the context of a library to ensure you are talking about reading materials.

Wrong: 은행에서 책을 대출했어요. (I borrowed a book from the bank.)
Right: 도서관에서 책을 대출했어요. (I borrowed a book from the library.)

Another mistake is forgetting the difference between '대출' (borrowing/lending out) and '반납' (returning). Some learners use '대출' to cover the whole cycle of taking and giving back. In Korean, these are strictly separated. You '대출' the book to take it home, and you '반납' it to give it back. Mixing these up at a library desk might lead the librarian to think you want to take another book when you are actually trying to return one.

Finally, pay attention to the particles. It is '도서대출 하다' (to do book borrowing) or '책 대출하다'. Sometimes students say '도서대출에 하다', which is incorrect. The noun '도서대출' acts as the direct object of the action.

To broaden your vocabulary, it is helpful to look at words related to 도서대출. While this is the official term, there are more casual and more specific alternatives depending on the situation.

빌리다 (To Borrow)
This is the native Korean verb. It is much more common in daily speech. '도서관에서 책 빌렸어' sounds more natural when talking to friends than '도서관에서 도서대출을 했어'.
대여 (Rental/Lease)
As discussed, this implies a commercial transaction. However, in some contexts like '의상 대여' (costume rental) or '장비 대여' (equipment rental), it is the standard term. You won't use '대출' for a car or clothes.
열람 (Reading/Browsing)
In a library, '열람' refers to reading a book within the premises without taking it home. If a book is '대출 불가, 열람만 가능' (No loan, reading only), you can only look at it inside the library.

대출 (Library/Bank) vs. 대여 (Commercial Rental) vs. 빌리다 (General/Casual)

Other related terms include 반납 (Return), which is the opposite of 대출. Then there is 연장 (Extension), which you use when you want to keep the book longer. If you want to hold a book that someone else has, you use 예약 (Reservation). In the context of the library's internal systems, the word 순환 (Circulation) is often used to describe the movement of books, but '도서대출' remains the primary term for the user-facing action.

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

The word '대출' (貸出) is also used for multi-million dollar bank loans. So, in a way, borrowing a picture book and borrowing a million dollars use the same action word!

Pronunciation Guide

UK /to.sʰʌ.tɛ.tɕʰul/
US /doʊ.sɔ.deɪ.tʃul/
The stress is relatively even across syllables, as in most Korean words.
Rhymes With
대출 (Loan) 수출 (Export) 매출 (Sales) 배출 (Emission) 추출 (Extraction) 제출 (Submission) 탈출 (Escape) 산출 (Calculation)
Common Errors
  • Pronouncing '대' as 'die' (it should be 'day').
  • Missing the 'l' sound at the end of '출'.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 2/5

Easy to recognize on signs.

Writing 3/5

Spelling '대출' and '도서' is straightforward.

Speaking 3/5

Pronunciation is clear but requires four syllables.

Listening 2/5

Clear pronunciation in library announcements.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

책 (Book) 도서관 (Library) 빌리다 (To borrow) 주다 (To give) 하다 (To do)

Learn Next

반납 (Return) 연체 (Overdue) 연장 (Extension) 예약 (Reservation) 열람 (Reading)

Advanced

상호대차 (Inter-library loan) 서지 정보 (Bibliographic information) 장서 (Book collection)

Grammar to Know

-(으)ㄹ 수 있다 (Can/Possible)

여기서 도서대출을 할 수 있어요.

-(으)면 안 된다 (Must not)

대출증 없이 도서대출을 하면 안 돼요.

-아/어/여야 하다 (Must)

기한 내에 도서대출한 책을 반납해야 해요.

-고 있다 (Am/Is/Are doing)

지금 도서대출을 하고 있어요.

-기 때문에 (Because)

연체했기 때문에 도서대출이 안 돼요.

Examples by Level

1

도서관에서 도서대출을 해요.

I borrow books at the library.

Uses the object particle '을' with the verb '해요'.

2

도서대출증이 있어요?

Do you have a library card?

'도서대출증' is a compound noun (Book + Borrow + Card).

3

책 대출해 주세요.

Please let me borrow the book.

Shortened '도서대출' to just '대출' for natural conversation.

4

여기는 도서대출 곳이에요.

This is the place for book borrowing.

Simple noun + '곳' (place) structure.

5

도서대출은 무료예요.

Book borrowing is free.

Uses the topic particle '은' to state a fact.

6

오늘 도서대출 했어요.

I borrowed a book today.

Past tense '했어요'.

7

도서대출 어디예요?

Where is book borrowing? (Where is the desk?)

Casual question omitting the subject particle.

8

도서대출 카드 필요해요.

I need a book borrowing card.

'필요해요' (to need) used with the noun.

1

도서대출 기간은 일주일입니다.

The book borrowing period is one week.

'기간' means period.

2

도서대출을 하고 싶어요.

I want to borrow a book.

'-고 싶어요' expresses desire.

3

이 책은 도서대출이 안 돼요.

This book cannot be borrowed.

'안 돼요' means 'is not possible/allowed'.

4

도서대출을 하려면 카드가 필요합니다.

To borrow books, you need a card.

'-(으)려면' means 'if you want to/in order to'.

5

어제 도서대출을 두 권 했어요.

I borrowed two books yesterday.

Uses the counter '권' for books.

6

도서대출은 몇 시까지 가능해요?

Until what time is book borrowing possible?

'가능해요' means 'is possible'.

7

도서대출증을 잃어버렸어요.

I lost my library card.

'잃어버렸어요' is the past tense of 'to lose'.

8

도서대출 규칙을 읽어보세요.

Please read the book borrowing rules.

'규칙' means rules.

1

도서대출 연장은 한 번만 가능합니다.

A loan extension is possible only once.

'연장' means extension.

2

도서대출 기록을 확인하고 싶습니다.

I would like to check my book borrowing record.

'기록' means record; '확인하다' means to check.

3

이미 대출된 책은 도서대출 예약을 하세요.

For books already out, please make a reservation.

'예약' means reservation.

4

도서대출 한도는 1인당 5권입니다.

The book borrowing limit is 5 per person.

'한도' means limit; '1인당' means per person.

5

도서대출 시 신분증을 제시해야 합니다.

You must present your ID when borrowing books.

'시' here means 'at the time of'.

6

전자도서대출 서비스가 아주 편리해요.

The e-book borrowing service is very convenient.

'전자' means electronic; '편리해요' means convenient.

7

도서대출 반납 기한을 꼭 지켜주세요.

Please make sure to keep the book return deadline.

'기한' means deadline; '지키다' means to keep/observe.

8

도서대출을 위해 회원 가입을 했습니다.

I signed up for membership to borrow books.

'위해' means 'for the sake of/in order to'.

1

도서대출 시스템 점검으로 인해 서비스가 중단됩니다.

Service is suspended due to a book borrowing system check.

'-(으)로 인해' indicates a cause; '중단' means suspension.

2

무인 도서대출기를 이용하면 24시간 대출이 가능합니다.

Using the unmanned machine makes 24-hour borrowing possible.

'이용하면' means 'if you use'; '무인' means unmanned.

3

도서대출 연체 시 일정 기간 대출이 제한됩니다.

If a book is overdue, borrowing will be restricted for a certain period.

'연체' means overdue; '제한' means restriction.

4

대학 도서관은 외부인의 도서대출을 제한하고 있습니다.

University libraries are restricting book borrowing for outsiders.

'외부인' means outsider/non-member.

5

최근 우리 구립 도서관의 도서대출 건수가 급증했습니다.

Recently, the number of book loans at our district library has surged.

'건수' means number of cases; '급증' means surge.

6

도서대출 목록을 통해 제 독서 취향을 알 수 있어요.

I can see my reading taste through my loan list.

'취향' means taste/preference.

7

희망 도서대출 서비스를 신청하면 새 책을 먼저 빌릴 수 있습니다.

If you apply for the 'Hope Book' service, you can borrow new books first.

'희망 도서' refers to books requested by users.

8

도서대출 시 발생하는 개인정보는 안전하게 관리됩니다.

Personal information generated during book borrowing is managed safely.

'발생하는' means occurring/generated.

1

도서대출 빅데이터 분석은 공공 서비스 개선에 기여합니다.

Big data analysis of book borrowing contributes to the improvement of public services.

'기여하다' means to contribute; '개선' means improvement.

2

지식의 민주화를 위해 도서대출의 문턱을 낮추어야 합니다.

To democratize knowledge, we must lower the threshold for borrowing books.

'민주화' means democratization; '문턱' means threshold.

3

상호대차 시스템 덕분에 전국 어디서든 도서대출이 용이해졌다.

Thanks to the inter-library loan system, book borrowing has become easier nationwide.

'상호대차' is inter-library loan; '용이하다' means easy.

4

도서대출 규정의 유연한 적용이 도서관 이용률을 높일 수 있다.

Flexible application of borrowing regulations can increase library usage rates.

'유연한' means flexible; '적용' means application.

5

디지털 전환 시대에 도서대출의 개념이 물리적 소장품에서 접근권으로 확장되고 있다.

In the era of digital transformation, the concept of book borrowing is expanding from physical collections to access rights.

'전환' means transformation; '확장' means expansion.

6

도서대출 실적에만 치중하기보다 독서의 질을 높이는 프로그램이 필요하다.

Rather than focusing only on book borrowing performance, programs that improve the quality of reading are needed.

'치중하다' means to focus/concentrate on.

7

저작권법과 도서대출 서비스 사이의 균형을 찾는 것이 중요하다.

It is important to find a balance between copyright law and book borrowing services.

'균형' means balance.

8

도서대출 이력은 사용자의 지적 탐구 과정을 보여주는 소중한 자료이다.

The history of book borrowing is valuable data that shows the user's intellectual inquiry process.

'지적 탐구' means intellectual inquiry.

1

도서대출의 공공성 강화는 사회적 정보 격차를 해소하는 핵심 기제이다.

Strengthening the public nature of book borrowing is a key mechanism for resolving the social information gap.

'공공성' means public nature; '격차' means gap; '기제' means mechanism.

2

포스트 휴먼 시대의 도서대출은 인공지능과의 지식 공유라는 새로운 국면을 맞이하고 있다.

In the post-human era, book borrowing is facing a new phase of knowledge sharing with artificial intelligence.

'국면' means phase/aspect.

3

도서대출 행위는 단순히 자원을 빌리는 것을 넘어, 공동체의 문화적 자본을 순환시키는 과정이다.

The act of borrowing books goes beyond simply borrowing resources; it is a process of circulating the community's cultural capital.

'문화적 자본' means cultural capital; '순환' means circulation.

4

도서대출 정책의 변천사는 한국 사회의 문해력 향상 및 교육열과 궤를 같이한다.

The history of changes in book borrowing policy is in line with the improvement of literacy and the passion for education in Korean society.

'궤를 같이하다' means to be in line with / share the same path.

5

희귀본의 도서대출은 보존과 이용이라는 두 가치 사이의 치열한 갈등을 야기하곤 한다.

The borrowing of rare books often causes intense conflict between the two values of preservation and use.

'희귀본' means rare edition; '야기하다' means to cause.

6

도서대출 데이터를 활용한 큐레이션 서비스는 알고리즘의 편향성 문제를 노정할 위험이 있다.

Curation services using book borrowing data run the risk of exposing the problem of algorithmic bias.

'편향성' means bias; '노정하다' means to expose/reveal.

7

도서대출의 권리는 헌법상 보장된 알 권리와 학습권의 실질적 구현이라 할 수 있다.

The right to borrow books can be said to be the practical implementation of the right to know and the right to learn guaranteed by the Constitution.

'구현' means implementation; '헌법상' means under the constitution.

8

지식 기반 사회에서 도서대출의 효율성은 국가 경쟁력을 좌우하는 보이지 않는 인프라이다.

In a knowledge-based society, the efficiency of book borrowing is an invisible infrastructure that determines national competitiveness.

'좌우하다' means to influence/determine.

Common Collocations

도서대출증
도서대출 기간
도서대출 한도
도서대출 서비스
도서대출 기록
도서대출 예약
무인 도서대출
전자도서대출
도서대출 규정
도서대출 현황

Common Phrases

도서대출을 하다

— To borrow a book from a library.

오늘 도서관에서 도서대출을 했어요.

도서대출이 가능하다

— Borrowing is possible/allowed.

이 책은 지금 도서대출이 가능합니다.

도서대출이 제한되다

— Borrowing is restricted (usually due to late returns).

연체 때문에 도서대출이 제한되었습니다.

도서대출을 신청하다

— To apply for a book loan.

홈페이지에서 도서대출을 신청하세요.

도서대출 기간을 연장하다

— To extend the book loan period.

책을 다 못 읽어서 도서대출 기간을 연장했어요.

도서대출증을 분실하다

— To lose one's library card.

도서대출증을 분실해서 재발급받아야 해요.

도서대출을 중단하다

— To stop the borrowing service temporarily.

도서관 공사로 도서대출을 중단합니다.

도서대출 실적

— The record or performance of book loans.

이 도서관은 도서대출 실적이 높습니다.

도서대출 안내

— Information or guidance about borrowing books.

도서대출 안내문을 읽어 보세요.

도서대출 시스템

— The software or method used for loans.

도서대출 시스템이 새로 바뀌었습니다.

Often Confused With

도서대출 vs 대출 (Bank Loan)

Same word, different context. Look for '도서' or '은행'.

도서대출 vs 대여 (Rental)

Commercial vs. Institutional (Library).

도서대출 vs 반납 (Return)

The opposite action.

Idioms & Expressions

"책 속에 길이 있다"

— There is a path (solution/wisdom) in books. Encourages reading.

공부가 힘들 때는 책 속에 길이 있다는 말을 기억해.

Proverb
"독서광"

— A 'reading maniac' or bookworm.

그는 하루에 한 권씩 읽는 독서광이다.

Common
"책을 씹어 먹다"

— To read a book so thoroughly that you memorize it.

그는 그 교과서를 아주 씹어 먹었다.

Informal
"글자로 밥을 빌어먹다"

— To make a living by writing (literary).

작가는 글자로 밥을 빌어먹는 직업이다.

Literary
"남의 책으로 공부하다"

— To learn from someone else's resources (sometimes negative).

남의 책으로 공부해서는 제 실력이 안 된다.

Colloquial
"책을 덮다"

— To stop studying or finish a task.

이제 그만 책을 덮고 쉬자.

Common
"책장을 넘기다"

— To turn the pages; to progress in reading.

흥미진진한 이야기에 계속 책장을 넘겼다.

Common
"책을 가까이 하다"

— To read books often.

성공한 사람들은 보통 책을 가까이 한다.

Formal
"책과 담을 쌓다"

— To never read books (literally 'build a wall with books').

그는 졸업 후 책과 담을 쌓고 지낸다.

Common
"책벌레"

— A bookworm; someone who loves reading.

우리 딸은 주말 내내 책만 읽는 책벌레예요.

Common

Easily Confused

도서대출 vs 대출

Same spelling as bank loan.

One is for books/materials, the other is for money. Context is key.

은행 대출 (Bank loan) vs. 도서 대출 (Book loan).

도서대출 vs 대여

Both mean taking something temporarily.

'대출' is for libraries; '대여' is for commercial rentals (car, clothes).

한복 대여 (Hanbok rental) vs. 도서 대출 (Book loan).

도서대출 vs 빌리다

General verb for borrowing.

'빌리다' is a native verb used casually; '대출' is a formal Sino-Korean noun.

책 빌려줘 (Lend me a book) vs. 도서대출을 신청하다 (Apply for a loan).

도서대출 vs 반납

Often seen together on signs.

'대출' is taking; '반납' is giving back.

대출 및 반납 (Loan and Return).

도서대출 vs 열람

Both happen in a library.

'대출' is taking home; '열람' is reading inside the library.

이 책은 열람용이라서 대출이 안 됩니다.

Sentence Patterns

A1

[Noun] 도서대출 해요.

도서관에서 도서대출 해요.

A2

[Noun]은 도서대출이 [Adjective]요.

이 책은 도서대출이 가능해요.

B1

[Noun]을 위해 도서대출을 [Verb].

공부를 위해 도서대출을 했어요.

B2

[Noun] 시 도서대출이 [Verb].

연체 시 도서대출이 제한됩니다.

C1

도서대출의 [Noun]은 [Noun]이다.

도서대출의 목적은 정보 공유이다.

C2

[Clause]에 따라 도서대출 [Noun]이 [Verb].

사회적 변화에 따라 도서대출 패러다임이 바뀐다.

All

도서대출을 [Verb].

도서대출을 신청합니다.

All

도서대출 [Noun].

도서대출 기간.

Word Family

Nouns

도서 (Book)
대출 (Loan)
도서관 (Library)
대출자 (Borrower)
대출증 (Loan card)

Verbs

대출하다 (To borrow/lend)
대출받다 (To receive a loan)
대출되다 (To be lent out)

Adjectives

대출 가능한 (Loanable)
대출 중인 (On loan)

Related

반납 (Return)
연체 (Overdue)
예약 (Reservation)
열람 (Reading)
서가 (Bookshelf)

How to Use It

frequency

Very high in educational and public service settings.

Common Mistakes
  • 도서대출에 해요 도서대출을 해요

    '도서대출' is the object, so it needs the object particle '을'.

  • 은행에서 도서대출을 했어요 도서관에서 도서대출을 했어요

    '도서' means books. Banks give '대출' (money loans), but not '도서대출'.

  • 책을 대여했어요 (at a public library) 책을 대출했어요

    While understandable, '대여' implies a commercial rental. '대출' is the correct institutional term.

  • 도서대출을 반납해요 책을 반납해요 / 대출한 책을 반납해요

    You return the *book*, not the *act of borrowing*. Use '반납하다' with the book as the object.

  • 도서대출증을 빌려주세요 제 도서대출증으로 대출해 드릴게요 (or similar)

    '도서대출증' (Library card) is usually non-transferable. Asking someone to lend their card is against rules.

Tips

Smart Libraries

Look for '스마트 도서관' in Korean subway stations. You can borrow and return books 24/7 without meeting a librarian.

Libropia

Download the 'Libropia' (리브로피아) app to manage all your Korean library '도서대출' in one place.

Noun + 하다

Remember that '도서대출' is the noun. To say 'I borrowed,' use '도서대출을 했어요' or simply '대출했어요'.

Opposites

Always learn '도서대출' (Loan) and '반납' (Return) together. They are the two most important words in a library.

Inter-library Loan

If your library doesn't have a book, ask about '상호대차' (Inter-library loan). They will bring the book from another library for you.

Save Money

Instead of buying expensive textbooks, check if your university library allows '도서대출' for them. You can save a lot of money!

E-books

Korean e-libraries are excellent. You can do '전자도서대출' from your bed at midnight!

Loan Limits

Check your '대출 한도' (Loan limit). If you reach the limit, you cannot borrow more until you return some.

Overdue Penalties

'연체' (Overdue) is the enemy. It stops your '도서대출' rights for the number of days you were late.

Hanja Roots

Learning the characters 圖書 (Book) and 貸出 (Loan) helps you recognize these words in Japan (貸出 - Kashidashi) and China too!

Memorize It

Mnemonic

'DO' (Do) 'SEO' (some) 'DAE' (day) 'CHUL' (chill) - Do some day chill by borrowing a book.

Visual Association

Imagine a library card with a picture of a book (도서) being pushed out (대출) of a slot.

Word Web

도서관 (Library) 책 (Book) 카드 (Card) 반납 (Return) 기간 (Period) 연체 (Late) 빌리다 (Borrow) 사서 (Librarian)

Challenge

Try to find the '도서대출' section on a Korean library website and see how many days the loan period is.

Word Origin

From Sino-Korean 圖書貸出 (do-seo-dae-chul).

Original meaning: 圖書 (Books) + 貸出 (Lending out).

Sino-Korean (Hanja-based).

Cultural Context

None. It is a neutral, professional term.

In English, we say 'checking out' or 'borrowing'. '도서대출' sounds more like 'library circulation' but is used by everyone.

Starfield Library in COEX Mall (famous for its scale, though mostly for reading/열람). National Library of Korea (main hub for 도서대출 policy). The drama 'It's Okay to Not Be Okay' features a library setting.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Public Library

  • 도서대출증 만들어 주세요.
  • 대출 기간이 언제까지예요?
  • 이 책 대출할 수 있어요?
  • 대출 연장해 주세요.

School/University

  • 학생증으로 도서대출 돼요?
  • 시험 기간 대출 규정이 뭐예요?
  • 전공 서적 대출했어요.
  • 대출 예약 취소할게요.

Mobile App

  • 대출 현황 확인
  • 전자도서대출 시작
  • 대출 이력 보기
  • 반납 예정 알림

News/Reports

  • 도서대출 건수 증가
  • 비대면 도서대출 서비스
  • 지역별 도서대출 통계
  • 전자책 대출 활성화

Workplace

  • 사내 도서대출 프로그램
  • 직원 대출 한도
  • 신간 도서대출 신청
  • 도서대출 복지

Conversation Starters

"최근에 도서관에서 어떤 책을 도서대출 했어요? (What book did you recently borrow from the library?)"

"도서대출 기간이 보통 얼마나 돼요? (How long is the book borrowing period usually?)"

"전자도서대출을 자주 이용하시나요? (Do you often use e-book borrowing?)"

"도서대출증을 잃어버린 적이 있어요? (Have you ever lost your library card?)"

"우리 동네 도서관은 도서대출이 정말 편해요. (Borrowing books in my neighborhood library is really convenient.)"

Journal Prompts

오늘 도서관에서 도서대출을 한 경험에 대해 써보세요. (Write about your experience borrowing books today.)

내가 가장 좋아하는 도서대출 목록 5가지는? (What are my 5 favorite borrowed books?)

전자도서대출과 종이책 대출 중 무엇을 더 선호하나요? (Do you prefer e-books or paper books?)

도서대출 연체료를 낸 적이 있다면 그 경험을 공유해 주세요. (Share your experience if you've ever paid a late fee.)

미래의 도서대출 시스템은 어떻게 바뀔까요? (How will future book borrowing systems change?)

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

네, 대부분의 공공 도서관에서 도서대출은 무료입니다. 하지만 연체할 경우 벌금을 내거나 대출이 제한될 수 있습니다. (Yes, in most public libraries, book borrowing is free. However, if you are late, you may have to pay a fine or have your borrowing restricted.)

신분증을 가지고 도서관을 방문하거나 홈페이지에서 신청할 수 있습니다. (You can visit the library with your ID or apply on the website.)

보통 1인당 5권에서 10권까지 가능합니다. 도서관마다 규정이 다릅니다. (Usually 5 to 10 books per person. Rules vary by library.)

대부분 2주(14일)입니다. (Mostly 2 weeks or 14 days.)

도서관 홈페이지나 앱, 또는 전화로 신청할 수 있습니다. (You can apply via the library website, app, or phone.)

같은 책으로 사서 돌려주거나 책값을 변상해야 합니다. (You must buy the same book and return it or compensate for the price.)

'책바다'나 '책이음' 서비스를 이용하면 가능합니다. (It is possible if you use the 'Chaek-bada' or 'Chaek-ieum' service.)

도서관 전자도서관 홈페이지나 전용 앱을 이용하면 됩니다. (Use the library's e-library website or dedicated app.)

무인 대출기나 스마트 도서관을 이용하면 휴일에도 가능합니다. (You can use unmanned machines or smart libraries even on holidays.)

개인정보 보호를 위해 직접 삭제하거나 도서관에 요청할 수 있습니다. (You can delete it yourself or request the library to do so for privacy.)

Test Yourself 200 questions

writing

도서관에서 책을 빌리고 싶을 때 사서에게 어떻게 말해야 할까요? (How should you ask a librarian to borrow a book?)

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

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

도서대출 기간을 연장하고 싶을 때 쓸 수 있는 문장을 쓰세요. (Write a sentence to extend the loan period.)

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

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

왜 도서대출 기한을 지켜야 하는지 이유를 한 문장으로 쓰세요. (Why should you keep the loan deadline?)

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

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

자신이 가장 최근에 대출한 책은 무엇인가요? (What is the most recent book you borrowed?)

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

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

전자도서대출의 장점을 한 가지 쓰세요. (Write one advantage of e-book borrowing.)

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

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

도서대출증을 분실했을 때 어떻게 해야 하나요? (What should you do if you lose your library card?)

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

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

도서관의 '상호대차' 서비스란 무엇인지 설명하세요. (Explain what 'inter-library loan' is.)

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

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

도서대출 시스템의 발달이 우리 삶에 주는 영향은? (What is the impact of library system development on our lives?)

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

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

도서대출 한도를 늘려야 한다고 생각하시나요? (Do you think loan limits should be increased?)

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

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

'도서대출'을 사용하여 짧은 일기를 쓰세요. (Write a short diary using '도서대출'.)

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

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

도서관 이용 규칙 중 가장 중요하다고 생각하는 것은?

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

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

'도서대출'과 '반납'을 모두 넣어 문장을 만드세요.

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

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

무인 도서대출기를 사용해 본 경험이 있나요?

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

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

전자책 대출이 종이책 대출보다 좋은 점은?

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

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

도서관 사서가 된다면 어떤 서비스를 제공하고 싶나요?

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

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

'도서대출' 단어를 넣어 도서관 홍보 문구를 만드세요.

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

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

도서대출 기록을 분석하면 무엇을 알 수 있나요?

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

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

도서대출증을 처음 만들었을 때의 기분은?

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writing

대출하고 싶은 책이 없을 때 어떻게 하나요?

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writing

도서대출의 사회적 가치는 무엇인가요?

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speaking

'도서대출'을 발음해 보세요.

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speaking

'도서대출증을 보여주세요'라고 말해 보세요.

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speaking

'이 책 대출할 수 있어요?'라고 질문해 보세요.

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speaking

'대출 기간을 연장하고 싶어요'라고 말해 보세요.

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speaking

'도서대출은 어디서 하나요?'라고 물어보세요.

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speaking

'전자도서대출이 정말 편해요'라고 말해 보세요.

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speaking

'반납 기한을 잊어버렸어요'라고 말해 보세요.

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speaking

'도서대출 한도가 몇 권이에요?'라고 물어보세요.

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speaking

'무인 대출기 사용법을 알려주세요'라고 부탁해 보세요.

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speaking

'어제 도서관에서 책을 대출했어요'라고 말해 보세요.

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speaking

'대출 연장은 한 번만 돼요'라고 설명해 보세요.

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speaking

'이 책은 대출 중이에요'라고 말해 보세요.

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speaking

'도서대출증을 새로 만들어야 해요'라고 말해 보세요.

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speaking

'희망 도서를 대출하러 왔어요'라고 말해 보세요.

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speaking

'도서대출 규정이 바뀌었나요?'라고 물어보세요.

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speaking

'상호대차를 신청하고 싶습니다'라고 말해 보세요.

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speaking

'도서대출 이력을 확인해 주세요'라고 말해 보세요.

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speaking

'책을 반납하고 다시 대출할게요'라고 말해 보세요.

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speaking

'주말에도 도서대출이 가능한가요?'라고 물어보세요.

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speaking

'도서관 앱으로 대출했어요'라고 말해 보세요.

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listening

(Audio) '도서대출은 2층 데스크에서 도와드립니다.' 어디로 가야 하나요?

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Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

(Audio) '대출하신 도서의 반납일은 10월 15일입니다.' 반납일은 언제인가요?

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Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

(Audio) '현재 대출 시스템 오류로 대출이 지연되고 있습니다.' 무슨 문제가 있나요?

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Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

(Audio) '회원님의 대출 한도는 3권 남았습니다.' 몇 권 더 빌릴 수 있나요?

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Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

(Audio) '도서대출증 없이도 모바일 카드로 대출이 가능합니다.' 무엇으로 대출할 수 있나요?

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Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

(Audio) '이번 달 가장 많이 대출된 책은 소설 '채식주의자'입니다.' 어떤 책이 인기가 많나요?

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

(Audio) '대출 연장은 홈페이지 마이페이지에서 직접 하실 수 있습니다.' 어디서 연장하나요?

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

(Audio) '연체료는 권당 하루 100원입니다.' 2권을 하루 연체하면 얼마인가요?

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

(Audio) '도서대출 시 책에 낙서가 있는지 확인해 주세요.' 무엇을 확인해야 하나요?

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Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

(Audio) '어린이 도서대출은 부모님 동행이 필요합니다.' 누가 같이 가야 하나요?

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Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

(Audio) '무인 도서대출기는 정문 옆에 위치하고 있습니다.' 기계는 어디에 있나요?

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Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

(Audio) '도서대출을 원하시면 대출증을 기계에 대 주세요.' 무엇을 기계에 대야 하나요?

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

(Audio) '대출 중인 책은 예약 버튼을 누르시면 됩니다.' 기다리려면 무엇을 누르나요?

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

(Audio) '오늘부터 신간 도서대출이 시작됩니다.' 오늘부터 무엇을 빌릴 수 있나요?

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

(Audio) '전자책 대출 기한은 7일입니다.' 전자책은 며칠 동안 빌리나요?

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:

/ 200 correct

Perfect score!

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