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B2 noun #4,000 most common 8 min read

조성

joseong Top 4,000

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips 조성 in 30 Seconds

Explanation 조성 in your Level:

At the A1 level, the word 조성 (조성하다) is quite advanced, but you can understand it as a special way to say 'make' or 'build' for big things like a park. Imagine you have a big empty field and you want to turn it into a beautiful park with trees and benches. That process is 조성. You won't use this word for small things like making a sandwich or a drawing. Instead, think of it as 'making a big place.' For example, '공원을 조성해요' means 'We are making a park.' It's a word used when people work together to build something for everyone to use. It's formal, so you will see it on signs or hear it from teachers when they talk about the school environment. Don't worry about using it in daily conversation yet; just remember it means 'building a big space or a mood.'

At the A2 level, you can start to see 조성 in more contexts, especially regarding 'environments' (환경). For example, if you want to say 'We should make a good environment for studying,' you can use '공부하기 좋은 환경을 조성해요.' Here, 조성 is better than '만들다' because an environment isn't a physical object you hold; it's the feeling and the setup of a room. You might also hear this word in news for kids or simple announcements about building new housing areas (단지 조성). It's always about a planned project. You can remember it as: Plan + Build = 조성. When you see a new park or a new library area being developed, that is 조성. It helps you talk about community projects or school improvements more accurately than using just 'making.'

At the B1 level, you should recognize that 조성 is used for both physical spaces and abstract 'atmospheres' (분위기). This is where the word becomes very useful. If you are describing a movie, you might say, '이 영화는 무서운 분위기를 조성해요' (This movie creates a scary atmosphere). It implies the director used lighting, music, and acting to build that feeling. You will also encounter '기금 조성' (creating a fund) in charity or school contexts. If your class is raising money for a trip, that's a small version of 기금 조성. The key for B1 learners is to differentiate 조성 from 형성. 조성 is something you do on purpose (active), while 형성 is often something that happens (like a habit forming). Start using 조성하다 in your writing when talking about social projects or setting a specific mood in a story.

At the B2 level, 조성 is a core vocabulary item for discussing social, economic, and political issues. You should be comfortable using phrases like '여건 조성' (creating the necessary conditions) and '단지 조성' (creating a complex). At this level, you understand that 조성 implies a high degree of systematic planning. For example, '정부는 벤처 기업 육성을 위한 생태계 조성을 추진하고 있다' (The government is promoting the creation of an ecosystem for fostering venture companies). Here, 'ecosystem' isn't biological; it's a metaphorical environment, and 조성 is the perfect word to describe the complex policy work behind it. You should also be able to use the passive form 조성되다 to describe completed projects in reports. This word allows you to discuss 'shaping' public opinion (여론 조성) and 'fostering' international relations, moving beyond simple physical construction to social engineering.

For C1 learners, 조성 is used to analyze structural and systemic developments. You will encounter it in academic papers, editorials, and high-level business strategy. It often appears in the context of '인프라 조성' (creating infrastructure) or '사회적 합의 조성' (creating a social consensus). At this level, you should appreciate the nuance of 조성 as a tool for 'intentional structuralization.' For instance, when discussing urban sociology, you might analyze how the 조성 of certain districts affects social stratification. In finance, you'll look at the legal and regulatory frameworks required for '자금 조성' (capital formation). You should also be able to use the word in nuanced ways to critique: '공포 분위기 조성을 통한 통제' (control through the creation of an atmosphere of fear). Your usage should reflect an understanding that 조성 is about the deliberate manipulation of variables to produce a specific environmental or financial outcome.

At the C2 level, 조성 is a versatile instrument for discussing abstract constructs and macro-level phenomena. You might use it in philosophical discourse to describe the '조성' of a paradigm or a discursive space. It's no longer just about parks and funds; it's about the 'intentional constitution' of reality or social structures. You will find it in high-level policy documents where '국가 경쟁력 강화를 위한 기반 조성' (creating a foundation for strengthening national competitiveness) involves intricate multi-sectoral coordination. C2 speakers can use 조성 to describe the subtle 'fostering' of cultural trends or the 'engineering' of market conditions. The word serves as a marker of formal, precise, and sophisticated communication, allowing you to articulate how complex systems—whether they be economic, social, or psychological—are deliberately brought into being and maintained. You can use it to discuss the 'creation' of historical narratives or the 'formation' of geopolitical alliances with professional authority.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

조성 in 30 Seconds

조성 means the intentional and planned creation of environments, funds, or physical complexes.
It is a formal Sino-Korean word (造成) used in professional, news, and academic contexts.
Commonly paired with '분위기' (atmosphere), '환경' (environment), and '기금' (fund).
Distinguished from '만들다' by its scale and from '형성' by its intentionality.

The Korean word 조성 (Jo-seong) is a sophisticated noun that translates primarily to 'creation,' 'formation,' or 'construction.' However, unlike the general word for making (만들다), 조성 carries a heavy connotation of intentionality, planning, and systematic development. It is most frequently used when referring to the creation of environments, atmospheres, physical spaces like industrial complexes, or financial funds. When you use 조성, you are implying that the result didn't just happen by accident; it was the product of a deliberate process designed to achieve a specific purpose or state.

Atmospheric Creation (분위기 조성): This is perhaps the most common abstract use. It refers to 'setting the mood' or 'fostering a climate.' For example, a teacher might work on 조성-ing a studious atmosphere in a classroom, or a government might try to 조성 an environment conducive to investment.
Physical Construction (단지/공원 조성): In urban planning, you don't just 'build' a park or an industrial complex; you 조성 it. This implies the clearing of land, the laying of infrastructure, and the holistic development of the area.
Financial Accumulation (기금 조성): When a large sum of money is gathered for a specific project, such as a scholarship or a disaster relief fund, the act of raising and organizing that money is called 기금 조성.

학교는 학생들이 공부에 집중할 수 있는 면학 분위기 조성에 힘쓰고 있다.
— The school is striving to create (조성) an atmosphere for study where students can concentrate.

To understand 조성, think of a gardener. A gardener doesn't just throw seeds; they prepare the soil, install irrigation, and arrange plants to create a specific landscape. That whole process of 'bringing a specific state into existence through organized effort' is the essence of 조성. In professional settings, it is a key term in policy-making, urban development, and corporate culture management. You will hear it on the news when the government announces a 'new tech hub' or during a business meeting when discussing how to 'foster a culture of innovation.'

정부는 중소기업을 위한 대규모 산업 단지 조성 계획을 발표했다.
— The government announced a plan for the creation (조성) of a large-scale industrial complex for small and medium-sized enterprises.

In summary, 조성 is a word of architecture—both physical and social. It suggests that the resulting environment or fund is a structured entity. When used in social contexts, it often carries a positive or constructive tone (creating a 'better' world), but it can also be used neutrally or even negatively (e.g., creating an 'atmosphere of fear'). The versatility of this word across financial, physical, and psychological domains makes it a staple of B2-level Korean proficiency.

Using 조성 correctly requires understanding its role as a noun that often combines with the verb 하다 (to do) to form 조성하다. In its noun form, it frequently acts as the object of a sentence or as part of a compound noun phrase. Because it is a formal word, the sentences it appears in usually follow a polite or literary register.

Object + 조성 (The 'What'): The most common objects for 조성 are abstract nouns like '분위기' (atmosphere), '환경' (environment), or '기금' (fund). Example: '화기애애한 분위기를 조성하다' (To create a harmonious atmosphere).
Location + 조성 (The 'Where'): When used for physical spaces, it follows a location or a type of development. Example: '도심에 녹지 공간을 조성하다' (To create green spaces in the city center).

그 영화는 긴장감 넘치는 분위기를 조성하기 위해 어두운 조명을 사용했다.
— That movie used dark lighting to create (조성) a tension-filled atmosphere.

When you want to describe a state that has already been created, you use 조성되다 (to be created/formed). This passive form is extremely common in news reports and academic writing. For example, '새로운 주거 단지가 조성되었다' (A new residential complex has been created).

이번 프로젝트를 위해 10억 원 규모의 펀드가 조성될 예정입니다.
— A fund worth 1 billion won is scheduled to be created (조성) for this project.

Furthermore, 조성 can be used metaphorically in social movements. Phrases like '여론 조성' (creating public opinion) describe the act of influencing and shaping how the public thinks about a certain issue. This highlights the word's power in describing the 'shaping' of intangible things into a concrete 'form' (成).

You will encounter 조성 in several specific real-world contexts in Korea. It is not a word you would typically use while chatting with friends over fried chicken, but it is ubiquitous in professional and public life.

1. News and Politics: Broadcasters use this word constantly when reporting on government initiatives. Phrases like '일자리 창출 환경 조성' (creating an environment for job creation) or '남북 화해 분위기 조성' (creating an atmosphere of inter-Korean reconciliation) are staples of evening news bulletins.
2. Business and Finance: In the corporate world, 조성 is used in the context of 'Investment Funds' (투자 기금 조성) or 'Corporate Culture' (기업 문화 조성). If a CEO wants to change how employees interact, they might launch a campaign for '수평적 문화 조성' (creating a horizontal/egalitarian culture).
3. Urban Development and real Estate: Whenever a new 'Smart City' or 'Industrial Park' is being built, the word 조성 is used to describe the entire lifecycle of the project, from land acquisition to the final layout.

서울시는 시민들을 위한 대규모 한강 숲 조성 사업을 추진 중이다.
— The Seoul Metropolitan Government is promoting a project to create (조성) a large-scale Han River forest for citizens.

In educational settings, teachers often talk about '면학 분위기 조성' (creating a studious atmosphere). If you attend a Korean university or work in a Korean office, you will see this phrase on posters or in internal memos emphasizing the need for focus and professionalism. It is also found in literature and documentaries to describe the 'buildup' of tension or the 'setting of a scene.'

Finally, in the context of social issues, 조성 is used to describe the creation of social awareness. '장애인 인식 개선 분위기 조성' (creating an atmosphere for improving awareness of the disabled) shows how the word bridges the gap between physical construction and social engineering.

Because 조성 is a formal and specific term, English speakers often over-apply it or use it in contexts where simpler words are more appropriate. Here are the most common pitfalls to avoid.

1. Confusing it with '만들다' (General Making): You cannot use 조성 for small, everyday objects. For example, '저녁 식사를 조성하다' (to create dinner) is incorrect. You 'make' (만들다) dinner. 조성 requires a grander scale or a structural intent.
2. Confusion with '건설' (Construction): While 건설 (geon-seol) refers specifically to the physical building of structures like bridges or skyscrapers, 조성 is broader. You '건설' a bridge, but you '조성' the entire surrounding park area.
3. Mistaking '조성' for '형성' (Formation): 형성 (hyeong-seong) often refers to things that form naturally over time, like '인격 형성' (personality formation). 조성 is always intentional. You '조성' a fund, but a habit '형성'-s.

❌ 책상을 조성했다. (I 'created' a desk.)
✅ 책상을 만들었다. (I made a desk.)

Another mistake involves the directionality of the word. Some learners use 조성 when they mean 'organizing' a small group of people. While 조성 can mean forming a group in a technical sense (like a committee), it's more about the infrastructure or atmosphere that allows the group to exist rather than just the act of calling people together.

Lastly, be careful with the passive form 조성되다. Learners sometimes forget that in the passive voice, the subject is the thing being created, and the agent (if mentioned) takes the particle '에 의해' or '에서'. For example, '공원이 정부에 의해 조성되었다' (The park was created by the government).

Korean has many words for 'making' or 'forming.' Choosing the right one depends on the context of intentionality, scale, and the nature of the object.

조성 (Jo-seong) vs. 형성 (Hyeong-seong): 조성: Intentional, artificial, and planned. (e.g., creating a fund, a park).
형성: Often natural, evolutionary, or structural. (e.g., forming a habit, a mountain range forming, an identity forming).
조성 (Jo-seong) vs. 마련 (Ma-ryeon): 마련: Focuses on 'preparing' or 'providing' something that is needed. (e.g., 마련하다 - to prepare money for a house). 조성 is more about the 'building/structuring' of that money into a formal fund.
조성 (Jo-seong) vs. 구축 (Gu-chuk): 구축: Used for systems, networks, or foundations. (e.g., building a database, establishing a system). 조성 is more about the environment or physical layout.

Word	Best Used For...
조성	Parks, Industrial Complexes, Funds, Atmospheres
형성	Habits, Opinions, Character, Geological features
건설	Buildings, Bridges, Roads, Nations
제작	Movies, Products, Physical artifacts

If you are talking about 'creating' a mood in a casual way, you might simply say '분위기를 만들다'. However, if you are discussing a strategic move to change public sentiment, '분위기를 조성하다' is the professional choice. Similarly, if you are 'saving up money,' use '돈을 모으다,' but if you are 'establishing a venture capital fund,' use '기금을 조성하다.'

Understanding these distinctions will help you sound more like a native speaker, especially in professional or academic environments where precision is valued. 조성 is a word that signals you are thinking about the bigger picture—the system, the environment, and the long-term plan.

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

The character 造 is also used in '구조' (structure) and '창조' (creation), while 成 is used in '성공' (success) and '완성' (completion). Combining them emphasizes a finished, structural result.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /t͡ɕo̞sʰʌ̹ŋ/

US /t͡d͡ʒoʊsʌŋ/

Even stress on both syllables in Korean.

Rhymes With

구성 (composition) 반성 (reflection) 정성 (sincerity) 행성 (planet) 음성 (voice) 함성 (shout) 특성 (characteristic) 형성 (formation)

Common Errors

Do not pronounce it as 'Jo-seon' (the dynasty); ensure the 'ng' sound at the end is clear.
Avoid making the 'j' sound too harsh like English 'Joe'.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 3/5

Common in news and signs, easy to recognize once learned.

Writing 4/5

Requires knowing which nouns (atmosphere, fund) collocate with it.

Speaking 4/5

Sounds very professional; using it correctly elevates your speech level.

Listening 3/5

Clear pronunciation, but often surrounded by other difficult formal words.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

만들다 (to make) 공원 (park) 돈 (money) 분위기 (atmosphere)

Learn Next

형성 (formation) 구축 (establishment) 기반 (foundation)

Advanced

인프라 (infrastructure) 생태계 (ecosystem - metaphorical) 여건 (conditions)

Grammar to Know

-기 위해 (In order to)

기금을 조성하기 위해 행사를 열었다.

-아/어지다 (Passive/Becoming)

분위기가 화기애애하게 조성되었다.

-는 데 (In the act of/For the purpose of)

환경을 조성하는 데 많은 비용이 든다.

-(으)로 (By means of)

기부금으로 장학 기금을 조성했다.

-에 의한 (By/Due to)

정부에 의한 신도시 조성 사업.

Examples by Level

공원을 조성해요.

They are making a park.

Noun + 을/를 + 조성해요 (Polite present)

꽃밭을 조성했어요.

We made a flower bed.

Past tense of 조성하다.

우리 학교는 숲을 조성해요.

Our school is making a forest.

Subject + Object + Verb.

도서관에 쉼터를 조성해요.

They are creating a rest area in the library.

Location (에) + Object + Verb.

마을에 산책로를 조성했어요.

They created a walking trail in the village.

Focus on physical construction.

정원은 아름답게 조성되었어요.

The garden was beautifully created.

Passive form 조성되다.

놀이터를 조성하고 있어요.

They are building a playground.

-고 있다 (Present continuous).

깨끗한 거리를 조성합시다.

Let's create clean streets.

-읍시다 (Let's/Suggestion).

공부하기 좋은 분위기를 조성해요.

Create a good atmosphere for studying.

Noun phrase + 분위기 + 조성.

정부는 새로운 주택 단지를 조성하고 있습니다.

The government is creating a new housing complex.

Formal present continuous.

아이들을 위한 안전한 환경을 조성해야 합니다.

We must create a safe environment for children.

-해야 하다 (Must/Should).

이곳에 공업 단지가 조성될 예정입니다.

An industrial complex is scheduled to be created here.

Passive future tense (될 예정).

우리 회사는 밝은 사무실 분위기 조성을 위해 노력해요.

Our company strives to create a bright office atmosphere.

Noun + 조성 + 을 위해 (For the sake of).

친환경적인 도시를 조성하는 것이 목표입니다.

The goal is to create an eco-friendly city.

-는 것 (Making a verb into a noun).

기금을 조성하여 어려운 이웃을 돕고 싶어요.

I want to help neighbors in need by creating a fund.

-하여 (and/by doing).

전통 시장을 활성화하기 위한 공간을 조성했어요.

They created a space to revitalize the traditional market.

-기 위한 (intended for).

영화 감독은 긴장감 넘치는 분위기를 조성했다.

The movie director created a tension-filled atmosphere.

Abstract usage of 조성.

정부는 청년 창업을 위한 기금을 조성하기로 했다.

The government decided to create a fund for youth startups.

-기로 하다 (Decided to).

새로운 신도시가 성공적으로 조성되었습니다.

The new city was successfully created.

Adverb + Passive verb.

서로 존중하는 문화를 조성하는 것이 중요합니다.

It is important to create a culture of mutual respect.

Subject phrase with -는 것.

이 공원은 시민들의 기부금으로 조성되었습니다.

This park was created with donations from citizens.

Noun + (으)로 (By means of).

토론을 위해 자유로운 분위기를 조성해 주세요.

Please create a free atmosphere for discussion.

-아/어 주세요 (Request).

지역 경제 활성화를 위해 산업 단지를 조성했습니다.

An industrial complex was created to vitalize the local economy.

Purpose-driven construction.

공포 분위기를 조성하는 행위는 금지되어 있습니다.

Acts that create an atmosphere of fear are prohibited.

Noun phrase as a subject.

정부는 벤처 기업 육성을 위한 생태계 조성을 추진하고 있다.

The government is promoting the creation of an ecosystem for fostering venture companies.

Metaphorical use of 'ecosystem' with 조성.

외국인 투자를 유치하기 위해 유리한 여건을 조성해야 한다.

Favorable conditions must be created to attract foreign investment.

여건 (conditions) + 조성.

이번 사건은 사회적으로 큰 불안감을 조성했다.

This incident created a great sense of social anxiety.

Negative abstract creation.

대규모 장학 기금 조성을 위한 자선 행사가 열렸다.

A charity event was held to create a large-scale scholarship fund.

Compound noun: 장학 기금 조성.

도시 재생 사업의 일환으로 예술 거리를 조성했다.

As part of an urban regeneration project, an art street was created.

Administrative terminology: 도시 재생 사업.

면학 분위기 조성을 위해 도서관 내 소란을 자제해 주세요.

Please refrain from making noise in the library to create a studious atmosphere.

Formal request for atmospheric control.

신기술 개발을 위한 연구 단지 조성이 시급하다.

The creation of a research complex for developing new technologies is urgent.

Adjective 시급하다 (urgent) describing the noun phrase.

기업들은 창의적인 사고를 장려하는 환경 조성에 힘쓰고 있다.

Companies are striving to create an environment that encourages creative thinking.

-는 환경 (Attributive clause).

정치권에서는 선거를 앞두고 유리한 여론 조성에 박차를 가하고 있다.

Political circles are accelerating the creation of favorable public opinion ahead of the election.

여론 조성 (shaping public opinion).

해당 지역은 관광 특구로 조성되어 매년 수백만 명의 관광객이 방문한다.

The area has been created as a special tourist zone, with millions of tourists visiting every year.

State of being (조성되어).

자본 시장의 건전한 조성을 위해 규제 개혁이 필요하다.

Regulatory reform is necessary for the sound creation/maintenance of the capital market.

Abstract market structuring.

이 영화는 치밀한 연출을 통해 몽환적인 분위기를 조성하는 데 성공했다.

This movie succeeded in creating a dreamlike atmosphere through meticulous directing.

-는 데 (In the act of).

정부는 탄소 중립 실현을 위한 저탄소 산업 생태계 조성을 선언했다.

The government declared the creation of a low-carbon industrial ecosystem for realizing carbon neutrality.

Policy-heavy language.

인위적인 공포 분위기 조성은 민주주의의 근간을 흔들 수 있다.

The artificial creation of an atmosphere of fear can shake the foundations of democracy.

Formal philosophical/political warning.

다양한 문화가 공존할 수 있는 사회적 토대 조성이 시급한 과제이다.

Creating a social foundation where diverse cultures can coexist is an urgent task.

토대 (foundation) + 조성.

스타트업 지원을 위한 펀드 조성이 마무리 단계에 접어들었다.

The creation of a fund to support startups has entered its final stage.

Business idiom: 단계에 접어들다.

담론의 장을 조성함으로써 사회적 갈등을 해소하려는 노력이 필요하다.

Efforts are needed to resolve social conflicts by creating a space for discourse.

담론의 장 (field of discourse).

거시 경제적 관점에서 안정적인 투자 환경 조성이 국가의 최우선 과제다.

From a macroeconomic perspective, creating a stable investment environment is the nation's top priority.

Macroeconomic terminology.

예술가는 작품을 통해 관객으로 하여금 자기 성찰의 분위기를 조성하게 한다.

Through their work, the artist causes the audience to create an atmosphere of self-reflection.

-게 하다 (Causative).

신도시 조성 사업은 국토 균형 발전이라는 대의를 품고 시작되었다.

The new city creation project began with the noble cause of balanced national land development.

High-level political rhetoric.

학문적 수월성을 확보하기 위한 연구 인프라 조성이 체계적으로 이루어졌다.

The creation of research infrastructure to secure academic excellence was carried out systematically.

Systemic development description.

권력층에 의한 인위적인 여론 조성은 진실을 왜곡할 위험이 크다.

The artificial shaping of public opinion by those in power carries a high risk of distorting the truth.

Critical social analysis.

지속 가능한 발전을 위한 국제적 협력 분위기 조성이 그 어느 때보다 중요하다.

The creation of an atmosphere of international cooperation for sustainable development is more important than ever.

Superlative emphasis (그 어느 때보다).

본 프로젝트는 지역 커뮤니티의 자생적 성장을 지원하는 환경 조성을 목표로 한다.

This project aims to create an environment that supports the self-sustaining growth of local communities.

Professional project objective phrasing.

Synonyms

건설 구축 형성 만듦 확립

Antonyms

파괴 해체

Common Collocations

분위기를 조성하다

기금을 조성하다

단지를 조성하다

환경을 조성하다

여건을 조성하다

공원을 조성하다

여론을 조성하다

기반을 조성하다

숲을 조성하다

인프라를 조성하다

Common Phrases

면학 분위기 조성

— Creating an atmosphere conducive to study. Used in schools.

학교는 면학 분위기 조성에 최선을 다하고 있다.

공포 분위기 조성

— Creating an atmosphere of fear. Often used in politics or crime reports.

그는 공포 분위기를 조성하여 사람들을 위협했다.

신도시 조성

— The creation/development of a new city.

정부는 3기 신도시 조성을 발표했다.

자금 조성

— The raising or creating of capital/funds.

사업 확장을 위해 대규모 자금 조성이 필요하다.

단지 조성

— Creating a complex (housing, industrial, etc.).

이 지역에 대규모 주거 단지 조성이 시작되었다.

인식 조성

— Creating social awareness or a certain perception.

장애인 차별 철폐를 위한 인식 조성이 필요하다.

여건 조성

— Creating the necessary conditions or circumstances.

평화 통일을 위한 여건 조성이 중요하다.

공간 조성

— Creating a specific space (physical or conceptual).

주민들을 위한 휴식 공간 조성이 완료되었다.

문화 조성

— Creating or fostering a specific culture (e.g., corporate culture).

우리 회사는 소통하는 문화 조성을 위해 노력한다.

인프라 조성

— Creating infrastructure.

4차 산업 혁명을 위한 인프라 조성이 한창이다.

Often Confused With

조성 vs 조선

Means the Joseon Dynasty. Pronunciation is similar but 'n' vs 'ng' ending is crucial.

조성 vs 조성 (Composition)

In music, '조성' can also mean 'tonality' or 'key,' but the context usually makes it clear.

조성 vs 조정

Means 'adjustment' or 'mediation.' Sounds similar but has a completely different meaning.

Idioms & Expressions

"분위기를 타다"

— To go with the flow of the created atmosphere.

그는 조성된 축제 분위기를 타고 춤을 추었다.

Neutral

"판을 짜다"

— To set the stage (similar to creating an environment for something to happen).

그는 성공을 위한 판을 짜기 위해 분위기를 조성했다.

Informal

"바닥을 다지다"

— To lay the foundation (related to the start of 조성).

기반 조성을 위해 먼저 바닥을 다지는 작업이 필요하다.

Neutral

"바람을 잡다"

— To instigate or create a certain mood/expectation (often negative/deceptive).

그는 투자를 유도하기 위해 헛된 바람을 잡으며 분위기를 조성했다.

Informal

"물을 흐리다"

— To spoil the created atmosphere.

그의 무례한 행동이 잘 조성된 회식 분위기를 흐려 놓았다.

Informal

"길을 닦다"

— To pave the way (creating conditions for someone else).

선배들은 후배들을 위해 연구 환경 조성의 길을 닦았다.

Neutral

"뿌리를 내리다"

— To take root (the result of successful 조성).

새로 조성된 숲이 이제 자리를 잡고 뿌리를 내렸다.

Neutral

"틀을 잡다"

— To take shape (when 조성 reaches a certain point).

신도시 조성이 어느 정도 틀을 잡아가고 있다.

Neutral

"맥을 짚다"

— To hit the mark (knowing how to create the right atmosphere).

그는 대중의 심리 맥을 짚어 유리한 여론을 조성했다.

Neutral

"씨를 뿌리다"

— To sow the seeds (the very beginning of 조성).

기금 조성을 위해 먼저 홍보의 씨를 뿌렸다.

Neutral

Easily Confused

조성 vs 형성 (Formation)

Both involve things taking shape.

조성 is planned/intentional (like a fund); 형성 is often natural/evolutionary (like a habit).

습관 형성 (habit formation) vs. 기금 조성 (fund creation).

조성 vs 건설 (Construction)

Both involve building physical things.

건설 is the physical act of building structures; 조성 is the holistic creation of a space or environment.

교량 건설 (bridge construction) vs. 공원 조성 (park creation).

조성 vs 마련 (Preparation)

Both involve getting something ready.

마련 focuses on providing a needed resource; 조성 focuses on the structural creation of that resource.

돈 마련 (getting money ready) vs. 펀드 조성 (creating a formal fund).

조성 vs 구축 (Establishment)

Both involve creating systems.

구축 is specifically for systems/networks; 조성 is for environments/complexes.

네트워크 구축 (network establishment) vs. 단지 조성 (complex creation).

조성 vs 창조 (Creation)

Both mean creation.

창조 is 'creation from nothing' (often artistic/divine); 조성 is 'systematic construction' of an environment.

천지 창조 (creation of the world) vs. 분위기 조성 (atmosphere creation).

Sentence Patterns

[Place]에 [Thing]을/를 조성해요.

학교에 공원을 조성해요.

[Purpose]를 위해 [Thing]을/를 조성합니다.

공부를 위해 조용한 환경을 조성합니다.

[Noun] 조성이 완료되었습니다.

기금 조성이 완료되었습니다.

[Noun] 분위기를 조성하다.

따뜻한 분위기를 조성하다.

[Noun] 조성을 추진하고 있다.

산업 단지 조성을 추진하고 있다.

[Noun] 조성이 시급한 실정이다.

여건 조성이 시급한 실정이다.

[Noun] 조성을 통한 [Goal] 달성.

인프라 조성을 통한 경제 성장 달성.

[Noun]의 인위적인 조성은 [Result]를 초래한다.

여론의 인위적인 조성은 갈등을 초래한다.

Word Family

Nouns

조성자 (creator/founder)

조성물 (the created thing/construct)

조성지 (the site of creation)

Verbs

조성하다 (to create/form)

조성되다 (to be created/formed)

만들다 (make)

이루다 (achieve/form)

짓다 (build)

세우다 (establish)

꾸미다 (decorate/set up)

How to Use It

frequency

High in written Korean/News; Medium in spoken Korean.

Common Mistakes

저녁 식사를 조성했어요. → 저녁 식사를 만들었어요.
'조성' is for large-scale or systemic things, not simple meals.
습관을 조성해요. → 습관을 형성해요.
Habits are usually 'formed' (형성) naturally rather than 'constructed' (조성).
건물을 조성해요. → 건물을 건설해요.
'건설' is for specific physical buildings; '조성' is for the entire area or complex.
분위기를 조성됐어요. → 분위기가 조성됐어요.
In the passive form (-되다), use the subject marker '이/가', not the object marker '을/를'.
조선 분위기 (when meaning atmosphere creation) → 조성 분위기
Confusion between '조선' (dynasty/shipbuilding) and '조성' (creation).

Tips

Use with Atmosphere

Whenever you want to say 'set the mood' in a professional way, use '분위기 조성'.

Passive Form

Use '조성되다' when the creator isn't the focus of the sentence, common in news reports.

Collocation King

Memorize '기금 조성' (fund) and '단지 조성' (complex) as single units; they are very common.

Plan First

If there was no plan, don't use '조성'. Use it only for things that were intentionally built.

Business Context

In a business meeting, use '환경 조성' to talk about improving the workplace.

TOPIK Tip

In TOPIK writing, use '조성' instead of '만들기' to get a higher score for vocabulary.

The Final 'NG'

Make sure the 'ng' (ㅇ) in 'seong' is clear. If it sounds like 'n', people might think of the Joseon dynasty.

Physical vs Abstract

Remember '조성' works for both a physical park and an abstract feeling. This versatility is its power.

Urban Planning

Think of '조성' as the word for 'The Sims' - you are planning and building a whole zone.

Public Opinion

Use '여론 조성' when discussing how media or politicians influence the public.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

'JO' (Joe) and 'SEONG' (Song). Imagine Joe writing a song to create a romantic atmosphere. Joe-Song = 조성.

Visual Association

Picture a blueprint of a park or a 'Loading' bar for a financial fund reaching 100%.

Word Web

Environment (환경) Atmosphere (분위기) Fund (기금) Complex (단지) Planned (계획된)

Challenge

Try to use '조성하다' instead of '만들다' next time you talk about setting a mood or starting a big project.

Word Origin

From the Hanja 造成. 造 (조) means 'to make, build, or create.' 成 (성) means 'to complete, become, or achieve.'

Original meaning: To build and complete; to bring into existence through construction.

Sino-Korean (Hanja)

Cultural Context

Generally neutral, but can be used critically when discussing the 'creation' of negative social climates or 'artificial' public opinion.

In English, we might use 'foster,' 'create,' 'build,' or 'establish' depending on the noun. Korean uses '조성' as a versatile umbrella term for all these professional contexts.

Saemangeum Seawall Project (often discussed in terms of 'reclaimed land 조성'). K-Pop 'fandom culture' creation (팬덤 문화 조성).

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Urban Planning

단지 조성
공원 조성
신도시 조성
녹지 공간 조성

Finance/Charity

기금 조성
자금 조성
투자 펀드 조성
장학금 조성

Social/Psychological

분위기 조성
여론 조성
공포 분위기 조성
화해 분위기 조성

Business/Workplace

업무 환경 조성
기업 문화 조성
혁신 생태계 조성
인프라 조성

Education

면학 분위기 조성
학습 환경 조성
연구 기반 조성
창의적 환경 조성

Conversation Starters

"최근에 우리 동네에 새로운 공원이 조성되었는데 가보셨어요?"

"우리 회사 분위기 조성을 위해 어떤 활동이 필요할까요?"

"스타트업을 위한 기금 조성 소식 들으셨나요?"

"어떻게 하면 집에서 집중할 수 있는 환경을 조성할 수 있을까요?"

"영화에서 긴장감을 조성하는 가장 중요한 요소가 뭐라고 생각하세요?"

Journal Prompts

내가 살고 싶은 이상적인 도시 조성 계획을 세워보자.

우리 사회에 가장 시급한 기금 조성은 무엇인가?

어떻게 하면 긍정적인 마음가짐을 위한 내면의 환경을 조성할 수 있을까?

직장에서의 수평적인 문화 조성을 위해 내가 할 수 있는 일은?

최근에 본 영화나 책에서 분위기 조성이 가장 훌륭했던 장면은?

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

Not really. '조성' is for formal or large-scale structures. For a small group, use '모임' (gathering) or '만들다' (make).

'조성하다' is active (someone creates), while '조성되다' is passive (something is created). Example: '정부가 공원을 조성했다' vs. '공원이 조성되었다.'

Yes, in music theory, '조성' means 'tonality' or 'key' (e.g., C major). However, in general conversation, it almost always means creation/formation.

Yes. You can '조성' a negative atmosphere, like '공포 분위기 조성' (creating an atmosphere of fear) or '불안감 조성' (creating anxiety).

You can say '기금 조성' (creating a fund) or '자금 조성' (creating capital). It sounds more formal than just '돈을 모으다.'

It's a bit formal for casual chatting. Use it in work, school, or when discussing serious topics like urban development or social issues.

The 'big three' are 분위기 (atmosphere), 기금 (fund), and 환경 (environment).

Usually, yes. Because it implies 'planning' and 'systematic development,' it's rarely used for something that happened instantly.

Usually, '형성' is used for habits (습관 형성). Using '조성' would imply you built a whole system around your life to force that habit.

Yes, it is very common in TOPIK II (Intermediate/Advanced) reading and writing sections, especially in Task 53 (graph/report writing).

Test Yourself 180 questions

writing

Translate: 'Let's create a good environment.'

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

Uses '환경' and '조성합시다'.