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개진하다

B2 verb #8,000 most common 7 min read

개진하다

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Practice it Examples Notes & Tips 개진하다 in 30 Seconds

Explanation 개진하다 in your Level:

At the A1 level, the word '개진하다' is far beyond what you would typically use or even see. A1 learners focus on basic survival Korean—ordering food, introducing themselves, and using simple verbs like '말하다' (to speak) or '좋아하다' (to like). '개진하다' is a formal, Hanja-based academic word. However, it's good to know that Korean has different levels of formality. If you see this word in a textbook, just remember it means 'to say' but in a very, very polite and professional way. You won't need to use it in your daily life yet. Instead, focus on '제 생각은...입니다' (My thought is...) to express your opinion. '개진하다' is like the difference between saying 'Tell me what you think' and 'Please formally state your perspective for the official record.' As an A1 student, you are building the foundation with '말해요' (speak), and eventually, you will reach these 'building block' words that make you sound more professional.

For A2 learners, you are starting to expand your vocabulary to include more 'Hanja' (Chinese character) words. You might encounter '개진하다' if you read news headlines or formal announcements, but you still won't use it in conversation. At this level, you are likely learning '설명하다' (to explain) or '이야기하다' (to talk/chat). '개진하다' is much more formal than these. It is important to recognize the '개' (open) part of the word, which you might see in other words like '개방' (open) or '개시' (start). If you are taking the TOPIK I exam, you probably won't see this word, but if you are looking at TOPIK II materials, it might appear in the reading passages. Think of it as a 'red flag' word that tells you, 'Hey, this is a serious situation, like a meeting or a news report.' You can continue using '말하다' or '의견을 이야기하다' for now.

At the B1 level, you are moving into intermediate Korean. You should start recognizing '개진하다' as a specific verb used for 'expressing opinions' in formal settings. You might see it in reading passages about social issues or in listening exercises involving debates. While you might not use it naturally in speech, you should be able to understand it when someone says '의견을 개진해 주세요' (Please express your opinion). You are likely learning synonyms like '발표하다' (to announce/present) or '표현하다' (to express). '개진하다' is more formal than '표현하다' and is specifically used for thoughts and opinions. If you are writing a formal essay for a class, using '개진하다' instead of '말하다' will immediately make your writing look more sophisticated. It shows you understand the 'written' style (문어체) of Korean.

B2 is the 'sweet spot' for '개진하다'. At this level, you are expected to handle formal situations, and '개진하다' should be part of your active vocabulary for writing and formal speaking. In the TOPIK II exam, particularly in the writing section (Task 53 or 54), using '개진하다' to describe a person's argument or to introduce your own viewpoint is highly recommended. You should understand the nuance: it's not just 'saying' something; it's 'unfolding' a detailed argument. You should be comfortable pairing it with nouns like '견해' (viewpoint), '소신' (conviction), or '방안' (plan). You are now distinguishing between '밝히다' (to reveal/state), '제시하다' (to suggest), and '개진하다' (to put forward an opinion). Practice using it in sentences like '저는 이 문제에 대해 다음과 같은 의견을 개진하고자 합니다' (I would like to put forward the following opinion on this matter).

For C1 learners, '개진하다' is a fundamental part of your professional and academic lexicon. You should use it naturally in business meetings, academic discussions, and high-level debates. You understand that this word implies a systematic and detailed expression of thought. You can also recognize the subtle difference between '개진하다' and even more specific words like '피력하다' (to express sincerely) or '역설하다' (to emphasize). At this level, you are also aware of the Hanja roots (開陳) and how they relate to other words like '진술' (statement) or '진열' (display). You can use it in complex sentence structures, such as '다양한 이해관계자들이 각자의 입장을 충분히 개진할 수 있는 공론의 장이 마련되어야 한다' (A public forum must be provided where various stakeholders can fully put forward their respective positions). Your usage should be flawless in terms of register and collocation.

At the C2 level, you have mastered the nuances of '개진하다'. You use it with the precision of a native speaker in the most formal of contexts. You might even use it in a slightly ironic or stylized way in high-level literature or editorial writing. You are aware of its historical weight and how it sounds to a Korean ear—authoritative, intellectual, and serious. You can explain the word to others, noting that it suggests a 'laying out' of ideas as if they were physical objects being displayed for inspection. You are also proficient in using the passive '개진되다' or the noun form '개진' in technical reports. For a C2 learner, '개진하다' is not just a word to know; it is a tool to signal your status as a highly educated participant in Korean society. You can navigate the subtle shifts between '개진', '피력', '언명', and '토로' with ease.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

개진하다 in 30 Seconds

개진하다 means to formally state or express an opinion or plan.
It is used in professional contexts like meetings, debates, and academic writing.
The word comes from Hanja, meaning 'to open and arrange' one's thoughts.
Commonly paired with nouns like 의견 (opinion) or 견해 (viewpoint).

The Korean verb 개진하다 (開陳--) is a sophisticated term that translates roughly to 'to state,' 'to express,' or 'to put forward.' However, unlike the more common '말하다' (to speak) or '이야기하다' (to talk), 개진하다 carries a heavy weight of formality and intentionality. It is composed of the Hanja characters 開 (개), meaning 'to open,' and 陳 (진), meaning 'to arrange' or 'to state.' Therefore, the literal sense is to 'open up and arrange' one's thoughts for others to see. This word is rarely used in casual conversations with friends at a coffee shop. Instead, you will encounter it in environments where ideas need to be presented clearly and logically, such as business meetings, academic seminars, political debates, or formal written proposals. When someone '개진한다' their opinion, they aren't just blurting something out; they are systematically laying out their perspective, often with the goal of persuading others or contributing to a serious discussion.

Formal Context: Used in boardrooms, government assemblies, and legal settings to denote the official presentation of a viewpoint.

의원님께서는 이번 법안에 대해 어떤 의견을 개진하시겠습니까? (What kind of opinion would you like to put forward regarding this bill, Assemblyman?)

Systematic Expression: It implies that the thoughts have been organized and are being presented in a detailed, step-by-step manner.

본인의 소신을 가감 없이 개진해 주시기 바랍니다. (Please express your convictions without adding or subtracting anything.)

Nuance of Sincerity: Because it is formal, it often implies that the speaker is being sincere and thorough in their explanation.

그는 회의에서 새로운 마케팅 전략을 상세히 개진했다. (He put forward a new marketing strategy in detail at the meeting.)

학자들은 세미나에서 각자의 학문적 견해를 개진하였다. (Scholars expressed their respective academic views at the seminar.)

자신의 주장을 논리적으로 개진하는 것이 중요합니다. (It is important to put forward your argument logically.)

Understanding 개진하다 is essential for anyone aiming for professional fluency in Korean, as it marks the transition from basic communication to high-level intellectual exchange.

Using 개진하다 correctly requires an understanding of its grammatical patterns and typical objects. As a transitive verb, it always needs an object—the thing being expressed. The most common objects are abstract nouns related to thought and communication. To use it naturally, you should pair it with formal honorifics like '-시-' when referring to a superior's action, or use the plain form in written reports.

Grammar Structure: [Subject] + [Object (의견/견해/생각)] + 을/를 + 개진하다. Example: '김 대리는 자신의 의견을 개진했다.'

전문가들은 환경 문제에 대한 해결책을 개진하기 위해 모였다. (Experts gathered to put forward solutions for environmental issues.)

Passive/Alternative forms: While '개진되다' (to be expressed) exists, it is much less common than the active '개진하다'. We usually focus on the person doing the stating.

이 보고서에서 저는 새로운 프로젝트의 필요성을 개진하고자 합니다. (In this report, I intend to state the necessity of the new project.)

Combining with Adverbs: It is often used with adverbs like '솔직하게' (honestly), '상세히' (in detail), or '적극적으로' (actively) to emphasize how the opinion is being shared.

그녀는 토론회에서 반대 의견을 적극적으로 개진했다. (She actively put forward a dissenting opinion during the discussion.)

자유롭게 의견을 개진할 수 있는 분위기를 조성해야 합니다. (We must create an atmosphere where opinions can be expressed freely.)

양측은 협상 테이블에서 각자의 요구 사항을 명확히 개진하였습니다. (Both sides clearly stated their respective requirements at the negotiation table.)

In summary, 개진하다 is a tool for precision and professionalism. It signals to your audience that what you are about to say is a deliberate and well-considered contribution to the discourse.

If you are watching a Korean drama about a group of high school students, you might never hear 개진하다. However, if you switch the channel to a political debate, a news broadcast, or a legal thriller like 'Stranger' (비밀의 숲), this word will appear frequently. It is a staple of the 'professional' Korean lexicon.

In the Workplace: During performance reviews or strategy meetings, a manager might say, '이 부분에 대해 의견을 개진해 보세요' (Please express your opinion on this part).

신입 사원들도 회의에서 자유롭게 아이디어를 개진할 수 있습니다. (Even new employees can freely put forward ideas in meetings.)

In the News: News anchors use it when reporting on government statements or public hearings. '정부는 이번 사태에 대한 입장을 개진했습니다' (The government stated its position on this situation).

시민단체는 성명서를 통해 자신들의 우려를 개진했다. (The civic group expressed their concerns through a statement.)

Academic Writing: In thesis papers or scholarly articles, researchers use it to introduce their hypotheses or findings: '본 논문에서는 다음과 같은 가설을 개진하고자 한다.'

교수님께서는 세미나에서 독창적인 이론을 개진하셨다. (The professor put forward an original theory at the seminar.)

토론자들은 찬반 양론을 팽팽하게 개진하며 맞섰다. (The debaters stood against each other, tensely putting forward both pros and cons.)

변호인은 피고인의 무죄를 입증할 증거와 논리를 개진했다. (The defense attorney put forward evidence and logic to prove the defendant's innocence.)

Whether in the courtroom or the classroom, 개진하다 is the hallmark of a structured and serious voice.

Because 개진하다 is a high-level word, the most common mistake is using it in the wrong register (social level). If you use it while grabbing a quick lunch with a close friend, it will sound jarringly stiff—almost as if you are mocking them or acting like a robot.

Register Mismatch: Mistake: '친구야, 너의 점심 메뉴에 대한 의견을 개진해 봐.' (Friend, please state your opinion on the lunch menu.) This is too formal. Use '말해 봐' instead.

Incorrect: 어제 본 영화에 대해 의견을 개진했어. (I stated my opinion about the movie we saw yesterday—sounds like a formal report.)

Object Collocation: Another mistake is using 개진하다 with concrete objects. You cannot '개진' a book or a sandwich. You can only '개진' abstract thoughts, opinions, or plans.

Incorrect: 그는 나에게 선물을 개진했다. (He stated a gift to me - Nonsense.)

Confusion with '제시하다': While similar, '제시하다' (to present/suggest) is often used for options or evidence, whereas '개진하다' is specifically for unfolding a personal or group opinion/thought process.

Correct usage: 회의에서 대안을 제시하고, 그에 대한 자신의 견해를 개진했다. (He suggested an alternative and expressed his view on it.)

Incorrect: 법안을 개진하다 (To state a bill - usually you '개정' a bill).

Correct: 법안에 대한 의견을 개진하다 (To state an opinion on the bill).

By avoiding these pitfalls, you will sound like a highly educated and culturally aware speaker of Korean.

Korean has many words for 'expressing' or 'stating,' and choosing the right one depends on the nuance you want to convey.

표명하다 (表明--): This means to 'make clear' your stance. It is often used for official positions. Example: '유감을 표명하다' (To express regret).

진술하다 (陳述--): This is commonly used in legal contexts, like 'stating' a testimony or facts to the police or in court.

발표하다 vs 개진하다: 발표하다 is to announce or present (like a slideshow), whereas 개진하다 is to express the underlying thoughts or opinions.

피력하다 (披瀝--): This is very similar to 개진하다 but often implies expressing one's feelings or thoughts with great sincerity or 'pouring them out'.

그는 자신의 포부를 피력했다. (He expressed his aspirations with sincerity.)

밝히다: A native Korean word (not Hanja) meaning 'to reveal' or 'to make known.' It's versatile and can be used in both formal and semi-formal contexts.

입장을 밝히다 vs 의견을 개진하다.

제시하다 (Presenting options) ≠ 개진하다 (Expressing thoughts).

자신의 주장을 역설하다 (To emphasize/stress one's argument) is even stronger than 개진하다.

Knowing these alternatives allows you to fine-tune your Korean to the exact social situation you find yourself in.

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

The character 陳 (진) is also used in '진열' (display in a store). So, when you 개진 (state) an opinion, you are essentially 'displaying' it in the window of the conversation.

Pronunciation Guide

UK ɡɛ̝ːd͡ʑinɦada

US ɡɛ̝ːd͡ʑinɦada

The primary stress is on the second syllable '진', but Korean is generally syllable-timed.

Rhymes With

매진하다 (to sell out) 정진하다 (to devote oneself) 증진하다 (to promote/enhance) 부진하다 (to be sluggish) 명진하다 (to be clear/bright) 전진하다 (to advance) 유진하다 (to remain) 발진하다 (to start/break out)

Common Errors

Pronouncing '개' too short; it is technically a long vowel in this word.
Confusing the 'j' sound in '진' with a 'z' sound.
Dropping the 'h' in '하다' entirely (though it is often weakened in natural speech).
Misreading '개진' as '개인' (individual).
Swapping '진' for '신' (개신하다 is a different word).

Difficulty Rating

Reading 4/5

Common in news and academic texts, but requires knowledge of Hanja-based vocabulary.

Writing 5/5

Hard to use naturally without understanding the formal register requirements.

Speaking 4/5

Only used in specific professional settings.

Listening 3/5

Easy to recognize once you know the word, as it usually follows '의견을...'.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

의견 생각 말하다 발표하다 회의

Learn Next

피력하다 표명하다 진술하다 역설하다 언명하다

Advanced

공론화 이해관계 제언 소회 담화

Grammar to Know

N + 에 대한 + N

이 문제에 대한 의견을 개진하다.

V + 고자 하다

의견을 개진하고자 합니다.

V + 는 바이다

찬성 의견을 개진하는 바입니다.

V + 도록 하다

자유롭게 의견을 개진하도록 하세요.

N + 을/를 바탕으로

사실을 바탕으로 견해를 개진하다.

Examples by Level

제 의견을 말해요.

I speak my opinion.

A1 uses '말하다' instead of '개진하다'.

생각을 이야기하세요.

Please talk about your thoughts.

A1 uses '이야기하다' for sharing thoughts.

이것은 제 생각입니다.

This is my thought.

Simple 'N은 N이다' structure.

선생님, 말씀하세요.

Teacher, please speak.

Honorific '말씀하시다' is better for A1.

친구와 의견을 나눠요.

I share opinions with a friend.

'나누다' (to share) is a common A1/A2 verb.

저는 한국어를 공부해요.

I study Korean.

Basic SOV sentence.

질문이 있어요.

I have a question.

'있다' expressing possession/existence.

회의가 있어요.

There is a meeting.

Simple noun + '있다'.

자신의 의견을 설명하세요.

Please explain your opinion.

'설명하다' is more common at A2.

회의에서 발표를 했어요.

I gave a presentation at the meeting.

'발표하다' is a key A2 business verb.

생각을 정리해서 말해요.

Organize your thoughts and speak.

'-아/어 서' showing sequence.

뉴스에서 의견을 들었어요.

I heard an opinion on the news.

Basic listening context.

중요한 이야기를 하고 싶어요.

I want to talk about something important.

'-고 싶다' for desire.

제 견해는 조금 달라요.

My view is a little different.

'견해' (viewpoint) starts appearing at A2/B1.

이메일로 의견을 보냈어요.

I sent my opinion by email.

'-로' indicating method/tool.

모두가 의견을 냈습니다.

Everyone gave their opinion.

'의견을 내다' is a common collocation.

회의에서 의견을 개진해 주세요.

Please express your opinion at the meeting.

Introduction to '개진하다' in a formal request.

그는 자신의 소신을 개진했다.

He put forward his convictions.

'소신' (conviction) is a common object for '개진하다'.

우리는 각자의 생각을 개진하기로 했다.

We decided to each put forward our thoughts.

'-기로 하다' (decided to).

솔직하게 의견을 개진하는 것이 좋습니다.

It is good to express your opinion honestly.

'-는 것' nominalization.

정부는 새로운 정책을 개진할 예정이다.

The government is scheduled to put forward a new policy.

'-을 예정이다' (scheduled to).

반대 의견을 개진하는 사람도 있었다.

There were also people who put forward opposing opinions.

Noun modifying clause.

어떻게 의견을 개진해야 할지 모르겠어요.

I don't know how I should express my opinion.

'-어/아 야 할지' (whether I should).

전문가들이 모여 견해를 개진했습니다.

Experts gathered and expressed their views.

Formal past tense.

그는 토론회에서 날카로운 비판을 개진했다.

He put forward sharp criticism during the debate.

Using '개진하다' with '비판' (criticism).

자신의 주장을 논리적으로 개진하는 능력이 필요하다.

The ability to logically put forward one's argument is necessary.

Abstract noun '능력' (ability).

이 보고서는 개선 방안을 개진하고 있습니다.

This report is putting forward improvement plans.

'-고 있다' progressive aspect.

의원들은 법안에 대해 다양한 의견을 개진하였다.

The assembly members put forward various opinions on the bill.

Formal '하였다' ending.

본인의 소신을 가감 없이 개진해 주시기 바랍니다.

Please express your convictions without adding or subtracting anything.

'가감 없이' (without change/honestly).

새로운 마케팅 전략을 상세히 개진했다.

He put forward a new marketing strategy in detail.

'상세히' (in detail) adverb.

자유롭게 의견을 개진할 수 있는 분위기입니다.

It is an atmosphere where you can freely express opinions.

'-을 수 있는' (can).

양측은 협상 테이블에서 요구 사항을 개진했다.

Both sides put forward their requirements at the negotiation table.

Business context.

학계에서는 이 가설에 대해 회의적인 시각을 개진해 왔다.

Academia has been putting forward a skeptical view of this hypothesis.

'-어 왔다' (has been doing).

그녀는 논문에서 여성 인권에 관한 새로운 이론을 개진하였다.

In her thesis, she put forward a new theory regarding women's rights.

Academic context.

정치권에서는 개헌의 필요성을 꾸준히 개진하고 있다.

The political sphere is steadily putting forward the necessity of constitutional amendment.

'정치권' (political circles).

피고인은 최후 진술에서 자신의 억울함을 개진했다.

The defendant put forward his sense of unfairness in his final statement.

'최후 진술' (final statement).

기업들은 정부의 규제 완화 방침에 찬성 의견을 개진했다.

Companies put forward opinions in favor of the government's deregulation policy.

'규제 완화' (deregulation).

본 논문은 기존 연구의 한계점을 지적하고 대안을 개진하고자 한다.

This paper intends to point out the limitations of existing research and put forward alternatives.

'-하고자 한다' (intend to).

시민들은 공청회에서 다양한 우려를 개진하며 열띤 토론을 벌였다.

Citizens put forward various concerns at the public hearing and held a heated debate.

'열띤 토론을 벌이다' (to have a heated debate).

그는 자신의 철학적 사유를 정교하게 개진하는 것으로 유명하다.

He is famous for elaborately putting forward his philosophical thoughts.

'정교하게' (elaborately).

해당 사안에 대해 심도 있는 견해를 개진하는 바입니다.

I am putting forward an in-depth view on the matter in question.

'-는 바입니다' highly formal ending.

국가 간의 이해관계가 얽힌 만큼 신중하게 입장을 개진해야 한다.

As national interests are intertwined, positions must be put forward cautiously.

'-는 만큼' (as much as/since).

그의 연설은 시대적 소명을 개진하는 데 주력하고 있다.

His speech is focused on putting forward the calling of the times.

'주력하고 있다' (focusing on).

사료를 바탕으로 역사적 사실에 대한 새로운 해석을 개진하였다.

Based on historical records, a new interpretation of historical facts was put forward.

'사료' (historical materials).

그는 비판적 지식인으로서 사회의 부조리를 개진하는 데 앞장섰다.

As a critical intellectual, he took the lead in stating the absurdities of society.

'앞장섰다' (took the lead).

법리적 근거를 바탕으로 반박 논리를 개진하는 과정이 치밀했다.

The process of putting forward rebuttal logic based on legal grounds was meticulous.

'치밀했다' (was meticulous).

예술적 영감을 바탕으로 창작 의도를 개진하는 작가의 목소리가 들린다.

The voice of the artist putting forward their creative intent based on artistic inspiration is heard.

Metaphorical usage.

양측의 주장이 팽팽히 맞서는 가운데 중재안을 개진할 필요가 있다.

Amidst the tense standoff between the two sides' arguments, there is a need to put forward a mediation plan.

'팽팽히 맞서다' (to be in a tense standoff).

Synonyms

표명하다 발표하다 진술하다 말하다

Antonyms

침묵하다 숨기다

Common Collocations

의견을 개진하다

견해를 개진하다

소신을 개진하다

입장을 개진하다

방안을 개진하다

가설을 개진하다

논리를 개진하다

포부를 개진하다

의혹을 개진하다

생각을 개진하다

Common Phrases

의견 개진

— The act of expressing an opinion. Often used as a noun phrase in meeting agendas.

의견 개진의 시간을 갖겠습니다.

자유로운 의견 개진

— Free expression of opinions. Emphasizes an open atmosphere.

자유로운 의견 개진을 환영합니다.

개진한 바와 같이

— As previously stated/expressed. Used to refer back to an earlier point.

앞서 개진한 바와 같이, 이 계획은 위험합니다.

충분히 개진하다

— To express fully. Suggests no details were left out.

자신의 생각을 충분히 개진했나요?

적극적으로 개진하다

— To actively put forward. Suggests enthusiasm or persistence.

그는 반대 의견을 적극적으로 개진했다.

상세히 개진하다

— To express in detail. Focuses on the thoroughness of the explanation.

계획을 상세히 개진해 주십시오.

논리적으로 개진하다

— To express logically. Focuses on the structure of the argument.

주장을 논리적으로 개진해야 설득력이 있다.

공식적으로 개진하다

— To express officially. Used for government or corporate statements.

회사는 입장을 공식적으로 개진했다.

가감 없이 개진하다

— To express without adding or subtracting (honestly).

현장의 목소리를 가감 없이 개진했다.

의견을 개진할 기회

— An opportunity to express one's opinion.

모두에게 의견을 개진할 기회를 주었다.

Often Confused With

개진하다 vs 개선하다

Means 'to improve.' Often confused by learners due to the similar sound of '개'.

개진하다 vs 개정하다

Means 'to revise' (a law or book). You 개정 a law, but you 개진 an opinion about it.

개진하다 vs 개시하다

Means 'to start' or 'to commence.' Sounds similar but used for actions, not thoughts.

Idioms & Expressions

"입을 열다"

— Literally 'to open one's mouth,' meaning to start speaking or reveal a secret. Less formal than 개진하다.

그는 드디어 입을 열어 진실을 말했다.

General

"속을 터놓다"

— To open up one's heart/innermost thoughts. Emotional and informal.

친구에게 속을 터놓고 이야기했다.

Informal

"뼈 있는 말을 하다"

— To say something with a hidden, often sharp, meaning. Different from the directness of 개진하다.

그는 웃으며 뼈 있는 말을 개진했다.

General

"말문을 트다"

— To start a conversation or break the silence.

어색한 분위기에서 그가 먼저 말문을 텄다.

General

"침을 튀기며 말하다"

— To speak passionately (literally 'splattering saliva'). Very informal.

그는 자기 주장을 침을 튀기며 개진했다.

Slangy/Informal

"말 한마디에 천 냥 빚도 갚는다"

— A word can settle a debt of a thousand nyang (words are powerful).

의견을 잘 개진하면 천 냥 빚도 갚는다.

Proverb

"입에 침이 마르도록"

— To speak of something repeatedly or highly (until one's mouth is dry).

그는 그 계획의 장점을 입에 침이 마르도록 개진했다.

Idiomatic

"한술 더 뜨다"

— To go one step further (often in a negative sense).

그는 비판을 개진하더니 한술 더 떠서 사퇴를 요구했다.

General

"말꼬리를 잡다"

— To nitpick at someone's words.

내가 의견을 개진할 때마다 그는 말꼬리를 잡았다.

General

"입을 맞추다"

— To coordinate stories/opinions beforehand (often to deceive).

그들은 미리 입을 맞추고 의견을 개진했다.

General

Easily Confused

개진하다 vs 제시하다

Both involve 'presenting' something in a formal way.

제시하다 is for showing options, evidence, or a specific plan/proposal. 개진하다 is for unfolding a personal or group thought process/opinion.

대안을 제시하고(present options), 의견을 개진했다(state opinion).

개진하다 vs 표명하다

Both translate as 'to express.'

표명하다 focuses on making a stance clear (clear/bright). 개진하다 focuses on the detailed unfolding of thoughts (open/arrange).

유감을 표명하다 (Express regret - stance), 견해를 개진하다 (State view - detailed thought).

개진하다 vs 진술하다

Both involve formal stating.

진술하다 is primarily for factual testimony or legal contexts. 개진하다 is for opinions and ideas.

사실을 진술하다 vs 의견을 개진하다.

개진하다 vs 피력하다

Almost identical in meaning.

피력하다 has a slightly stronger nuance of 'pouring out' one's heart or sincere thoughts. 개진하다 is more systematic and business-like.

포부를 피력하다 (Sincere aspiration) vs 전략을 개진하다 (Business strategy).

개진하다 vs 언명하다

Both mean to state formally.

언명하다 is even more formal, often used for official declarations or public announcements by high-ranking officials.

대통령이 공식 언명했다.

Sentence Patterns

[의견]을 개진하다

의견을 개진해 주세요.

[부사] 의견을 개진하다

솔직하게 의견을 개진했다.

[N]에 대한 의견을 개진하다

환경 문제에 대한 의견을 개진했다.

[N]하고자 의견을 개진하다

문제를 해결하고자 의견을 개진했다.

[N]을 바탕으로 견해를 개진하다

데이터를 바탕으로 견해를 개진했다.

개진하는 바입니다

찬성 의견을 개진하는 바입니다.

개진한 바와 같이

앞서 개진한 바와 같이...

개진에 주력하다

그는 정책 개진에 주력하고 있다.

Word Family

Nouns

개진 (The act of expressing/stating)

Verbs

개진하다 (To express/state)

개진되다 (To be expressed/stated)

의견 (opinion)

견해 (viewpoint)

소신 (conviction)

진술 (statement)

피력 (expression)

How to Use It

frequency

Low in daily speech, High in news/business/academia.

Common Mistakes

Using it for physical objects. → 의견을 개진하다 (Correct), 선물을 개진하다 (Incorrect).
You can only '개진' abstract thoughts or plans. For physical gifts, use '주다' or '선물하다'.
Using it with friends in casual settings. → 말해 봐 (Correct), 의견을 개진해 봐 (Too stiff).
It sounds unnaturally formal with friends. It's like saying 'Please articulate your perspective' to a friend at a bar.
Confusing '개진' with '개선'. → 의견 개진 (Stating opinion), 환경 개선 (Improving environment).
They sound similar but '개선' is about making things better, while '개진' is about stating thoughts.
Using it without an object. → 그는 의견을 개진했다.
It is a transitive verb. You must state *what* is being put forward.
Spelling it as '개친하다'. → 개진하다.
The second syllable is '진' (JIN), not '친' (CHIN).

Tips

Pairing is Key

Always pair this word with '의견' (opinion) or '견해' (viewpoint). 90% of the time, this is how you will see it used in the real world.

Corporate Survival

Use this word in business emails when you want to respectfully suggest a new idea to a manager. It shows you are serious and professional.

TOPIK Strategy

In the TOPIK writing section, if you have to write about a 'solution' to a problem, start the sentence with '이러한 문제를 해결하기 위해 다음과 같은 방안을 개진하고자 한다'.

Context Clues

If you see '개진' in a news headline, look for the person's name nearby. The article will likely summarize what that person said in a formal meeting.

Avoid Overuse

Don't use it more than once or twice in a single conversation. Because it's a 'heavy' word, overusing it can make you sound pretentious.

Active vs Passive

Stick to the active '개진하다'. While '개진되다' (to be expressed) is grammatically correct, it sounds much more natural to say who is doing the expressing.

Hanja Power

Remembering the Hanja 開 (Open) will help you with dozens of other words like 개방 (openness), 개막 (opening of a show), and 개발 (development).

Dress Your Words

Think of '개진하다' as wearing a suit. Use it when the situation requires 'suit and tie' Korean, not 't-shirt and jeans' Korean.

Systematic Thinking

Using this word implies you have thought about your opinion carefully. It's not for 'gut feelings' or 'random guesses'.

Respecting the Flow

In meetings, wait for the chair to say '의견을 개진해 주세요' before you start. It's a formal signal that the floor is open.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of 'GAE' (개) as 'Opening a Gate' and 'JIN' (진) as 'Showing Gin' (or something you've arranged). You open the gate to your mind and show what's inside.

Visual Association

Imagine a person unfolding a large, detailed scroll in front of a group of people. The scroll contains their thoughts.

Word Web

의견 (Opinion) 회의 (Meeting) 토론 (Debate) 발표 (Presentation) 소신 (Conviction) 정치 (Politics) 논문 (Thesis) 진술 (Statement)

Challenge

Try to write three sentences about a topic you care about (e.g., climate change) using '개진하다' to introduce your main points.

Word Origin

Derived from the Hanja 開陳. 開 (개) means 'to open, unfold, or start.' 陳 (진) means 'to display, arrange, or state.' Together, they form the concept of 'opening up and displaying' one's thoughts.

Original meaning: To unfold and display items or thoughts for inspection.

Sino-Korean (Hanja)

Cultural Context

While formal, using it with friends can sound sarcastic or 'mansplaining' if not careful. Keep it to professional contexts.

The closest English equivalents are 'to put forward,' 'to state for the record,' or 'to articulate.' It is much more formal than 'to say.'

Frequently used in the TV show 'The Great Debate' (백분토론). Common in the subtitles of legal dramas like 'Law School'. Used in official Blue House (Cheong Wa Dae) briefings.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Business Meeting

의견을 개진하다
아이디어를 개진하다
전략을 개진하다
우려를 개진하다

Academic Seminar

가설을 개진하다
이론을 개진하다
견해를 개진하다
비판을 개진하다

Political Debate

공약을 개진하다
입장을 개진하다
반대 의견을 개진하다
소신을 개진하다

Legal Proceedings

논리를 개진하다
주장을 개진하다
증거를 개진하다
억울함을 개진하다

News Reporting

우려를 개진하다
전망을 개진하다
해법을 개진하다
의혹을 개진하다

Conversation Starters

"이번 안건에 대해 어떤 의견을 개진하시겠습니까? (What opinion would you like to put forward regarding this agenda item?)"

"자유롭게 의견을 개진할 수 있는 시간을 갖겠습니다. (We will have a time to freely express opinions.)"

"혹시 다른 견해를 개진하실 분 계신가요? (Is there anyone who would like to put forward a different view?)"

"본인의 소신을 명확하게 개진하는 것이 중요합니다. (It is important to clearly state your convictions.)"

"상세한 계획을 개진해 주시면 검토하겠습니다. (If you put forward a detailed plan, we will review it.)"

Journal Prompts

오늘 회의에서 내가 개진한 의견은 무엇이었으며, 사람들의 반응은 어땠는가? (What opinion did I put forward in today's meeting, and how did people react?)

내가 평소에 중요하게 생각하는 소신을 글로 개진해 보자. (Let's put forward my usual convictions in writing.)

사회 문제에 대해 나의 견해를 논리적으로 개진해 본다면? (What if I were to logically put forward my views on a social issue?)

누군가 나의 의견을 개진할 기회를 막는다면 어떻게 대처할 것인가? (How would I handle it if someone blocked my opportunity to express my opinion?)

최근 뉴스에서 인상 깊게 개진된 주장은 무엇인가? (What was a memorably expressed argument in the recent news?)

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

Generally, no. It is too stiff. Even if you want to be polite, '말씀드리다' or '생각을 말씀드리다' is much more natural for family settings. Using '개진하다' at home would sound like you are giving a formal report to your parents.

'의견을 내다' (to give an opinion) is the more common, everyday version. '개진하다' is the professional, 'high-level' version. Use '내다' in a casual project group and '개진하다' in a formal board meeting.

It is 開 (Open) and 陳 (Arrange/State). Understanding that '진' is the same '진' as in '진열' (display) helps you remember that you are 'displaying' your thoughts.

No. '개진하다' requires a conscious mind that has opinions or thoughts. A machine can '출력하다' (output) or '표시하다' (display), but it cannot '개진' unless we are personifying an AI's 'thoughts'.

Yes, it is highly encouraged! It is one of those 'advanced vocabulary' words that graders look for to award higher points for lexical diversity and register appropriateness.

No. You can only '개진' abstract things like opinions, views, or plans. For physical objects, use '보여주다' (show) or '제시하다' (present).

'발표하다' is about the act of presenting information to an audience (like a speech or a report). '개진하다' is about the act of expressing the *content* of your thoughts or opinions. You might '발표' a research paper to '개진' your new theory.

'저는 회의에서 제 의견을 적극적으로 개진했습니다' is a perfect, professional sentence for an interview.

It is very common in specific domains: news, law, business, and academia. It is not common in daily street talk or casual texting.

It's close, but '개진하다' is more about 'stating' than 'arguing.' If you want to say 'argue' in the sense of a heated debate, '주장하다' or '논쟁하다' is better. '개진하다' is more about the clear presentation of the argument.