A2 noun #1,500 most common 8 min read

~을 목적으로

~eul mokjeogeuro
At the A1 level, you usually learn simple ways to say 'why' you do something, like using the particle '~러' (to go/come in order to) or '~기 위해' (for). However, you might encounter the word '목적' (purpose) in very basic contexts, such as an immigration form or a simple textbook dialogue. At this stage, think of '~을 목적으로' as a set phrase that means 'for [Noun]'. For example, '공부를 목적으로' means 'for study'. You don't need to worry about the complex grammar yet; just remember that if you see '목적', it means someone is explaining their goal. It is most commonly seen in simple sentences like 'I came to Korea for the purpose of travel' (여행을 목적으로 한국에 왔어요). This is a great way to start sounding a bit more organized in your speech, even with a limited vocabulary. Focus on pairing it with simple nouns you already know, like '여행' (travel), '공부' (study), or '선물' (gift).
At the A2 level, you are beginning to use more formal expressions to describe your intentions. '~을 목적으로' is a perfect addition to your vocabulary because it allows you to explain your actions more clearly in semi-formal situations, such as at a part-time job or when talking to a teacher. You should understand that this expression is used with a noun + 을/를. For example, instead of just saying 'I exercise to be healthy', you can say 'I exercise for the purpose of health management' (건강 관리를 목적으로 운동해요). This shows that you have a specific plan. You will often see this in public signs or simple news snippets. It's important to distinguish this from the more casual '~으려고'. While '~으려고' is great for 'I'm going to eat', '~을 목적으로' is better for 'I am attending this seminar for the purpose of learning'. Start practicing by replacing your simple 'why' sentences with this structure when you want to sound more serious or polite.
At the B1 level, you are expected to handle more abstract topics and professional settings. '~을 목적으로' becomes a key tool for your writing and speaking. You should be able to use it to describe social issues, company goals, or personal development plans. For instance, you might discuss 'environmental protection' (환경 보호) or 'information sharing' (정보 공유) as purposes for certain actions. You will also notice that this expression is frequently used in the passive voice or in formal reports, such as 'This survey was conducted for the purpose of...' (이 조사는 ~을 목적으로 실시되었습니다). At this stage, you should also be careful with the nuance difference between '목적' (purpose) and '목표' (target). While '목적' is the reason why you do something, '목표' is the specific result you want to achieve. Being able to use '~을 목적으로' correctly in a short essay or a presentation will significantly improve your formal Korean proficiency and make your arguments sound more logical and structured.
At the B2 level, you should have a firm grasp of the formal register where '~을 목적으로' is most common. You will encounter this expression in complex texts, such as editorials, business contracts, and academic papers. You should be comfortable using it with complex, four-character Hanja compounds (사자성어) or technical terminology. For example, '수익 창출을 목적으로' (for the purpose of profit creation) or '상호 협력을 목적으로' (for the purpose of mutual cooperation). At this level, you should also understand the variation '~을 목적으로 하여', which adds a slight emphasis on the 'with... as' aspect. You are expected to use this expression to link multiple ideas in a cohesive manner. For instance, when explaining a government policy, you can use it to justify the necessity of the policy by stating its ultimate purpose. Your ability to distinguish between '~을 목적으로', '~을 취지로', and '~을 목표로' will demonstrate a high level of linguistic precision, allowing you to convey subtle differences in intent and motivation.
At the C1 level, you are approaching near-native fluency in formal and academic Korean. '~을 목적으로' is no longer just a grammar point but a stylistic choice. You should use it to create a professional and authoritative tone in your writing. You will see it used in legal statutes, where the purpose of a law is defined in the very first article (e.g., '이 법은 ...을 목적으로 한다'). You should be able to use it to discuss philosophical or highly technical concepts, such as 'the realization of social justice' (사회 정의 실현) or 'the preservation of cultural identity' (문화적 정체성 보존). At this level, you should also be aware of how this phrase interacts with other advanced structures, such as '...을 목적으로 하는 바' or '...을 목적으로 함에 있어'. Your usage should be flawless, and you should be able to explain the subtle rhetorical effects of choosing this phrase over other similar expressions. It is a marker of high-level literacy and the ability to navigate the most formal sectors of Korean society, from academia to high-level bureaucracy.
At the C2 level, you have mastered the full spectrum of the Korean language, including its most formal and archaic nuances. '~을 목적으로' is used with effortless precision in your most sophisticated discourse. You can use it to articulate complex institutional missions, philosophical inquiries, or intricate legal arguments. You understand that in certain high-level contexts, the word '목적' itself can be part of a larger rhetorical strategy to establish legitimacy or authority. You might use it in a keynote speech or a published academic article to frame your entire argument. For example, '본 논문은 근대 주체성의 형성과 그 한계를 고찰함을 목적으로 하며...' (This paper aims to examine the formation and limits of modern subjectivity...). You are also capable of critiquing the use of such formal language in others' work, recognizing when it is used effectively and when it is merely decorative. Your command of the language allows you to move between the highly formal '~을 목적으로' and more nuanced alternatives like '~을 지향하며' (aiming towards) or '~을 염두에 두고' (with ... in mind) to achieve the exact tone and impact you desire.

~을 목적으로 in 30 Seconds

  • Formal way to say 'for the purpose of'.
  • Used with Nouns + 을/를 marker.
  • Common in news, business, and academic writing.
  • Indicates a deliberate and planned goal.

The expression ~을 목적으로 is a sophisticated way to express the reason or goal behind an action. It is composed of the noun 목적 (mok-jeok), meaning 'purpose' or 'aim', the object marker 을/를, and the particle 으로, which indicates a direction, method, or status. When combined, it translates to 'with the purpose of' or 'for the aim of'. Unlike simpler forms like ~기 위해서, this expression carries a more formal, objective, and structured tone, making it a staple in academic writing, news reporting, and professional business contexts.

Etymology
The word 目的 (목적) comes from Hanja, where '目' (목) means 'eye' and '的' (적) means 'target' or 'bullseye'. Literally, it refers to what the eye is fixed upon.
Grammatical Function
It functions as an adverbial phrase that modifies the main verb of the sentence, explaining the underlying motivation for the entire clause.

그는 건강 관리를 목적으로 매일 운동을 합니다.

Translation: He exercises every day for the purpose of health management.

In daily life, you might use this when you want to sound more deliberate. Instead of just saying you are doing something, you are stating that there is a specific target you are aiming for. It implies a level of planning and intentionality. For example, if you are visiting a country, you might say you are there 'for the purpose of sightseeing' (관광을 목적으로) rather than just 'to see things'. This distinction is crucial in formal settings like immigration interviews or business proposals.

정보 공유를 목적으로 이 웹사이트를 만들었습니다.

Contextual Nuance
It often appears in the pattern [Noun] + 을/를 목적으로 + [Action Verb]. The noun must be something that can be achieved or attained.

Furthermore, this phrase is highly versatile. It can be used with abstract nouns like 'peace', 'development', or 'education', as well as concrete goals like 'profit' or 'victory'. It establishes a clear cause-and-effect relationship between the goal and the action. When you use ~을 목적으로, you are essentially providing a justification for your behavior that is grounded in a specific objective.

수익 창출을 목적으로 하는 사업입니다.

연구를 목적으로 데이터를 수집했습니다.

Syntactic Variation
You can also see it as '~을 목적으로 하여' (with ... as the purpose), which is even more formal and often used in legal or technical texts.

평화 유지를 목적으로 협상을 시작했습니다.

Using ~을 목적으로 requires a clear understanding of Korean noun-particle relationships. The structure is straightforward: [Noun] + [Object Marker 을/를] + 목적 (Purpose) + [Particle 으로]. The choice between and depends on whether the preceding noun ends in a consonant or a vowel. For example, 교육 (education) ends in a consonant, so it becomes 교육을 목적으로. Conversely, 기부 (donation) ends in a vowel, so it becomes 기부를 목적으로.

Step 1: Choose the Goal
Identify the noun that represents your goal. It should be a substantive noun like 'study', 'work', 'health', or 'peace'.
Step 2: Attach the Marker
Add 을 or 를 to that noun. Then add '목적으로'.

취업을 목적으로 자격증을 땄어요.

Translation: I got a certification for the purpose of getting a job.

One common pattern is using this phrase to describe the intent of an organization or a project. In these cases, the sentence often ends with ~하고 있다 (is doing) or ~이다 (is). For instance, 'This club exists for the purpose of friendship' would be 이 동아리는 친목을 목적으로 합니다. This sounds much more official than saying 'We just want to be friends'.

친목 도모를 목적으로 모임을 가졌습니다.

When you want to use a verb as the purpose, you must first nominalize it. You can do this by adding ~기 or ~는 것. However, ~을 목적으로 is most commonly paired with Sino-Korean nouns (Hanja-based nouns) because they naturally fit the formal tone. Instead of saying '먹는 것을 목적으로' (for the purpose of eating), it is more natural to say '식사를 목적으로' (for the purpose of a meal).

Formal vs. Informal
In casual conversation, Koreans usually say '~으려고' or '~기 위해'. Use '~을 목적으로' in presentations, reports, or when speaking to a superior about a project.

환경 보호를 목적으로 캠페인을 진행합니다.

기술 개발을 목적으로 투자를 유치했습니다.

Common Nouns Used
Common nouns include: 연구 (research), 교육 (education), 홍보 (promotion), 기부 (donation), 관광 (sightseeing).

홍보를 목적으로 이벤트를 열었습니다.

You will encounter ~을 목적으로 in environments where clarity and formality are prioritized. One of the most common places is in the news. News anchors often use this phrase to explain the reason behind government policies, international summits, or corporate actions. For example, 'The two countries met for the purpose of discussing trade' would likely use this expression to maintain a professional journalistic tone.

Legal and Official Documents
Contracts, laws, and official notices frequently use this phrase to define the scope and intent of a particular clause or regulation.
Academic Research
In the 'Introduction' or 'Methodology' section of a thesis, researchers state their goals using this phrase: 'This study was conducted for the purpose of analyzing...'

본 조사는 소비자 행태 파악을 목적으로 실시되었습니다.

Translation: This survey was conducted for the purpose of identifying consumer behavior.

In the business world, during presentations or when writing project proposals, this phrase helps clearly articulate the 'Why' behind a strategy. If a company is launching a new marketing campaign, they might say it is 'for the purpose of increasing brand awareness' (브랜드 인지도 향상을 목적으로). It sounds more strategic and well-thought-out than using casual language.

그는 유학을 목적으로 비자를 신청했습니다.

Documentary Narrations
Narrators use this to explain animal behaviors or historical events: 'The birds migrate for the purpose of breeding'.

범죄 예방을 목적으로 CCTV를 설치했습니다.

이 법은 국민의 권리 보호를 목적으로 제정되었습니다.

Public Announcements
'For the purpose of safety inspection, the elevator will be stopped' (안전 점검을 목적으로 엘리베이터 운행을 중단합니다).

재해 구호를 목적으로 성금을 모았습니다.

One of the most frequent errors learners make is using ~을 목적으로 in overly casual settings. While grammatically correct, saying 'I am going to the store for the purpose of buying milk' (우유를 사는 것을 목적으로 마트에 가요) sounds incredibly stiff and unnatural in a daily conversation with friends. In such cases, ~으려고 or ~기 위해서 is much more appropriate.

Mistake 1: Wrong Particle
Using '목적에' instead of '목적으로'. While '목적에' exists, it means 'to the purpose' (e.g., fitting the purpose), whereas '목적으로' means 'with the purpose of'.
Mistake 2: Noun Choice
Pairing it with verbs directly. You cannot say '공부할 목적으로'. It must be a noun: '공부를 목적으로'.

[Wrong] 밥을 먹을 목적으로 식당에 갔어요.

[Right] 식사를 목적으로 식당에 갔어요.

Another mistake is confusing it with ~을 목표로. While similar, 목표 (goal/target) is often used for specific, measurable achievements (like 'winning first place' or 'scoring 90 points'), whereas 목적 (purpose) is broader and deals with the 'why' or the general intent. Using '목적' for a very specific numerical target can sometimes feel slightly off.

[Wrong] 친구를 만나는 목적으로 나갔어요.

[Right] 친구와의 만남을 목적으로 나갔어요. (Or better: 친구를 만나러 나갔어요.)

Overuse of '을/를'
Sometimes people omit the object marker (e.g., '공부 목적으로'). This is actually common in spoken shorthand or headlines, but for exams and formal writing, keep the '을/를'.

수익을 목적으로 하지 않는 비영리 단체입니다.

그는 성공을 목적으로 열심히 일했습니다.

Confusion with ~기 위해
~기 위해 is more flexible and can be used with both nouns and verbs. ~을 목적으로 is strictly for nouns and carries more weight.

친목을 목적으로 만든 모임입니다.

Understanding the synonyms of ~을 목적으로 helps you choose the right word for the right situation. While they all express 'purpose', their nuances and levels of formality differ significantly. The most common alternative is ~을/를 위해(서). This is the 'all-purpose' version of 'for the sake of' or 'for the purpose of'. It is less formal than 목적으로 and can be used in almost any context.

~을/를 목표로 (With ... as the target)
Focuses on a specific, often measurable, end point. Example: '우승을 목표로' (Aiming for the championship).
~하고자 (Intending to)
A formal verb ending used to express a strong will or intention to do something. Example: '알리고자 합니다' (I intend to inform you).

그는 1등을 목표로 달리고 있습니다.

Comparison: Here '목표' is better because 1st place is a specific target.

Another similar expression is ~을/를 취지로. This is even more formal than 목적으로 and is often used to describe the 'spirit' or 'intent' behind a law, a speech, or a large-scale event. If a festival is held to promote traditional culture, you might say it is '전통 문화 계승을 취지로' (with the intent of inheriting traditional culture).

이 행사는 나눔을 취지로 기획되었습니다.

~으려고 (In order to)
The standard spoken form for expressing intention. Use this with friends and family.

살을 빼려고 운동을 시작했어요.

그는 학위 취득을 목적으로 공부하고 있습니다.

~기 위함이다 (It is for the sake of...)
Often used at the end of a sentence in written reports to state the purpose of the preceding action.

이것은 안전을 위함입니다.

How Formal Is It?

Formal

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Difficulty Rating

Grammar to Know

Examples by Level

1

여행을 목적으로 한국에 왔어요.

I came to Korea for the purpose of travel.

Noun (여행) + 을 + 목적으로

2

공부를 목적으로 도서관에 가요.

I go to the library for the purpose of studying.

Noun (공부) + 를 + 목적으로

3

선물을 목적으로 이 옷을 샀어요.

I bought these clothes for the purpose of a gift.

Noun (선물) + 을 + 목적으로

4

운동을 목적으로 공원에 가요.

I go to the park for the purpose of exercise.

Noun (운동) + 을 + 목적으로

5

식사를 목적으로 식당에 예약했어요.

I made a reservation at a restaurant for the purpose of a meal.

Noun (식사) + 를 + 목적으로

6

쇼핑을 목적으로 백화점에 갔어요.

I went to the department store for the purpose of shopping.

Noun (쇼핑) + 을 + 목적으로

7

대화를 목적으로 친구를 만나요.

I meet a friend for the purpose of conversation.

Noun (대화) + 를 + 목적으로

8

휴식을 목적으로 바다에 왔어요.

I came to the sea for the purpose of rest.

Noun (휴식) + 을 + 목적으로

1

건강 관리를 목적으로 매일 걷습니다.

I walk every day for the purpose of health management.

Compound Noun (건강 관리) + 를 + 목적으로

2

한국어 학습을 목적으로 이 앱을 사용해요.

I use this app for the purpose of learning Korean.

Noun (학습) + 을 + 목적으로

3

친목 도모를 목적으로 모임에 참석했습니다.

I attended the meeting for the purpose of promoting friendship.

Formal Noun (도모) + 를 + 목적으로

4

정보 교환을 목적으로 세미나를 열었습니다.

We held a seminar for the purpose of exchanging information.

Noun (교환) + 을 + 목적으로

5

자기 계발을 목적으로 책을 읽습니다.

I read books for the purpose of self-development.

Noun (계발) + 을 + 목적으로

6

취업 준비를 목적으로 학원에 다녀요.

I go to an academy for the purpose of job preparation.

Noun (준비) + 를 + 목적으로

7

스트레스 해소를 목적으로 취미 생활을 해요.

I have a hobby for the purpose of stress relief.

Noun (해소) + 를 + 목적으로

8

기부를 목적으로 바자회를 열었습니다.

We held a bazaar for the purpose of donation.

Noun (기부) + 를 + 목적으로

1

환경 보호를 목적으로 일회용품 사용을 줄입시다.

Let's reduce the use of disposable items for the purpose of environmental protection.

Formal Noun (보호) + 를 + 목적으로

2

수익 창출을 목적으로 하는 사업 계획서입니다.

This is a business plan for the purpose of profit creation.

Noun (창출) + 을 + 목적으로 + 하는 (modifying Noun)

3

범죄 예방을 목적으로 CCTV를 추가 설치했습니다.

CCTVs were additionally installed for the purpose of crime prevention.

Noun (예방) + 을 + 목적으로

4

전통 문화 계승을 목적으로 축제를 개최합니다.

We are holding a festival for the purpose of inheriting traditional culture.

Noun (계승) + 을 + 목적으로

5

신제품 홍보를 목적으로 이벤트를 기획했습니다.

We planned an event for the purpose of promoting a new product.

Noun (홍보) + 를 + 목적으로

6

인재 양성을 목적으로 장학금을 지원합니다.

We provide scholarships for the purpose of nurturing talent.

Noun (양성) + 을 + 목적으로

7

사회 공헌을 목적으로 봉사 활동을 시작했습니다.

I started volunteer work for the purpose of social contribution.

Noun (공헌) + 을 + 목적으로

8

기술 개발을 목적으로 연구소를 설립했습니다.

We established a research institute for the purpose of technology development.

Noun (개발) + 을 + 목적으로

1

경제 활성화를 목적으로 정부가 새로운 정책을 발표했습니다.

The government announced a new policy for the purpose of economic revitalization.

Abstract Noun (활성화) + 를 + 목적으로

2

이 조사는 학술 연구를 목적으로 엄격하게 진행되었습니다.

This survey was strictly conducted for the purpose of academic research.

Formal Adverbial Phrase (목적으로)

3

평화 유지를 목적으로 양국이 협상을 재개했습니다.

The two countries resumed negotiations for the purpose of maintaining peace.

Noun (유지) + 를 + 목적으로

4

고객 만족도 향상을 목적으로 서비스를 개선하고 있습니다.

We are improving our services for the purpose of enhancing customer satisfaction.

Noun (향상) + 을 + 목적으로

5

데이터 분석을 목적으로 최신 소프트웨어를 도입했습니다.

We introduced the latest software for the purpose of data analysis.

Noun (분석) + 을 + 목적으로

6

권익 보호를 목적으로 시민 단체가 결성되었습니다.

A civic group was formed for the purpose of protecting rights and interests.

Noun (보호) + 를 + 목적으로

7

상호 이해 증진을 목적으로 문화 교류 행사를 엽니다.

We are holding a cultural exchange event for the purpose of promoting mutual understanding.

Noun (증진) + 을 + 목적으로

8

재해 복구를 목적으로 긴급 자금을 투입하기로 했습니다.

It was decided to inject emergency funds for the purpose of disaster recovery.

Noun (복구) + 를 + 목적으로

1

본 법안은 사회 정의 실현을 목적으로 발의되었습니다.

This bill was proposed for the purpose of realizing social justice.

High-level Noun (실현) + 을 + 목적으로

2

문화적 다양성 보존을 목적으로 국제 협약이 체결되었습니다.

An international treaty was signed for the purpose of preserving cultural diversity.

Noun (보존) + 을 + 목적으로

3

인류의 보편적 가치 수호를 목적으로 단체를 운영하고 있습니다.

We operate the organization for the purpose of defending universal human values.

Noun (수호) + 를 + 목적으로

4

지속 가능한 발전을 목적으로 하는 새로운 패러다임이 필요합니다.

A new paradigm for the purpose of sustainable development is needed.

Noun (발전) + 을 + 목적으로 + 하는 (adjectival)

5

역사적 진실 규명을 목적으로 위원회가 구성되었습니다.

A committee was formed for the purpose of investigating historical truth.

Noun (규명) + 을 + 목적으로

6

공공의 이익 증진을 목적으로 토지 수용이 결정되었습니다.

Land expropriation was decided for the purpose of promoting public interest.

Noun (증진) + 을 + 목적으로

7

민주주의 가치 확산을 목적으로 교육 프로그램을 강화했습니다.

We strengthened educational programs for the purpose of spreading democratic values.

Noun (확산) + 을 + 목적으로

8

생태계 복원을 목적으로 습지 보호 구역을 지정했습니다.

A wetland protection area was designated for the purpose of ecosystem restoration.

Noun (복원) + 을 + 목적으로

1

인간 소외 문제의 근원적 해결을 목적으로 철학적 담론이 전개되었습니다.

Philosophical discourse was developed for the purpose of fundamentally resolving the problem of human alienation.

Abstract Noun (해결) + 을 + 목적으로

2

국가 경쟁력 제고를 목적으로 하는 거시 경제 정책의 틀을 마련했습니다.

A framework for macroeconomic policy for the purpose of enhancing national competitiveness was established.

Noun (제고) + 를 + 목적으로 + 하는

3

전통적 가치관의 현대적 재해석을 목적으로 예술 작품을 창작했습니다.

Artistic works were created for the purpose of a modern reinterpretation of traditional values.

Noun (재해석) + 을 + 목적으로

4

법적 안정성 확보를 목적으로 관련 법령을 정비할 필요가 있습니다.

It is necessary to reorganize relevant laws for the purpose of securing legal stability.

Noun (확보) + 를 + 목적으로

5

인간 존엄성 실현을 목적으로 하는 헌법 정신을 기려야 합니다.

We must honor the constitutional spirit aimed at realizing human dignity.

Noun (실현) + 을 + 목적으로 + 하는

6

지식의 지평 확장을 목적으로 학문 간 융합 연구가 활발히 이루어지고 있습니다.

Interdisciplinary convergence research is actively being conducted for the purpose of expanding the horizons of knowledge.

Noun (확장) + 을 + 목적으로

7

사회적 갈등 봉합을 목적으로 범국민적 합의를 도출해야 합니다.

A pan-national consensus must be derived for the purpose of sealing social conflicts.

Noun (봉합) + 을 + 목적으로

8

미래 세대의 생존권 보장을 목적으로 기후 위기에 대응해야 합니다.

We must respond to the climate crisis for the purpose of guaranteeing the right to survival for future generations.

Noun (보장) + 을 + 목적으로

Common Collocations

수익 창출을 목적으로
친목 도모를 목적으로
환경 보호를 목적으로
범죄 예방을 목적으로
학술 연구를 목적으로
정보 공유를 목적으로
건강 관리를 목적으로
인재 양성을 목적으로
평화 유지를 목적으로
권익 보호를 목적으로

Common Phrases

방문 목적

사용 목적

설립 목적

연구 목적

교육 목적

영리 목적

비영리 목적

정치적 목적

개인적 목적

공익 목적

Often Confused With

~을 목적으로 vs ~을 목표로 (Target vs Purpose)

~을 목적으로 vs ~을 취지로 (Spirit vs Purpose)

~을 목적으로 vs ~을 위해 (General vs Formal)

Idioms & Expressions

""

""

""

""

""

""

""

""

""

""

Easily Confused

~을 목적으로 vs

~을 목적으로 vs

~을 목적으로 vs

~을 목적으로 vs

~을 목적으로 vs

Sentence Patterns

How to Use It

nuance

Implies a high level of intentionality.

written vs spoken

Primarily written, but used in formal speech.

Common Mistakes
  • Using it with a verb directly (e.g., 가다 목적으로).
  • Using it in very casual daily conversations.
  • Confusing it with '목표로' when referring to a specific number.
  • Forgetting the object marker 을/를 in formal writing.
  • Using '목적에' instead of '목적으로' to mean 'with the purpose of'.

Tips

Noun Matching

Always pair it with a noun that represents a clear objective.

Formal Situations

Use this in interviews to sound prepared and professional.

Hanja Roots

Learning the Hanja for 목적 (目的) helps you remember its meaning as 'eyeing a target'.

Academic Writing

Use it in the introduction of your essays to state your thesis goal.

News Watching

Listen for this phrase in Korean news to understand the reason for reported events.

Clarity

It helps clearly define your intent in potentially ambiguous situations.

TOPIK Prep

Practice writing sentences with this for the TOPIK writing task 53.

Respect

Using formal grammar shows respect for the context and the audience.

Global Use

It's the standard way to explain the purpose of international organizations.

Visualizing

Visualize a bullseye when you use the word '목적'.

Memorize It

Word Origin

Sino-Korean (Hanja)

Cultural Context

Highly formal; rarely used with close friends.

Standard in the preamble of Korean laws.

Essential for project proposals and mission statements.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Conversation Starters

"한국에 오신 목적이 무엇입니까?"

"이 프로젝트를 시작한 목적이 뭐예요?"

"공부를 목적으로 한국에 오셨나요?"

"취미를 목적으로 하시는 건가요?"

"건강 관리를 목적으로 운동하시나요?"

Journal Prompts

내가 한국어를 배우는 목적을 써 보세요.

올해 내가 운동을 하는 목적은 무엇인가요?

돈을 모으는 목적에 대해 생각해 보세요.

여행을 가는 목적이 무엇인지 적어 보세요.

인생의 궁극적인 목적은 무엇이라고 생각합니까?

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

No, you must change the verb into a noun first. For example, instead of '공부하다', use '공부'.

It's grammatically correct but sounds very stiff. It's better to use '~으려고' with friends.

목적 is the 'why' (purpose), while 목표 is the 'what' (specific target or goal).

In formal writing, yes. In spoken shorthand or titles, it is sometimes omitted.

Yes, they are very similar, but '목적으로' is slightly more formal.

'목적에' usually means 'to the purpose' (e.g., fitting the purpose), not 'with the purpose of'.

It's used to explain the reason for government actions or international events.

Yes, very frequently in proposals and project descriptions.

Yes, '관광을 목적으로' is a standard way to say 'for the purpose of sightseeing'.

Yes, it often appears in the reading and writing sections of TOPIK II.

Test Yourself 185 questions

writing

Write: 'I came for the purpose of travel.'

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

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

Write: 'I go to the library for the purpose of study.'

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

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

Write: 'I exercise for the purpose of health management.'

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

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

Write: 'I use this app for the purpose of learning Korean.'

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

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

Write: 'We held an event for the purpose of promotion.'

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

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

Write: 'CCTV was installed for the purpose of crime prevention.'

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

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

Write: 'This is a business for the purpose of profit creation.'

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

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

Write: 'Negotiations resumed for the purpose of maintaining peace.'

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

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

Write: 'The bill was proposed for the purpose of realizing social justice.'

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

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

Write: 'The committee was formed for the purpose of investigating historical truth.'

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

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

Write: 'I bought a gift for the purpose of a present.'

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

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

Write: 'I met a friend for the purpose of a meal.'

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

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

Write: 'I attended for the purpose of promoting friendship.'

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

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

Write: 'I read books for the purpose of self-development.'

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

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

Write: 'We reduce waste for the purpose of environmental protection.'

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

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

Write: 'We established a lab for the purpose of technology development.'

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

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

Write: 'We are improving services for the purpose of enhancing satisfaction.'

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

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

Write: 'We introduced software for the purpose of data analysis.'

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

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

Write: 'A treaty was signed for the purpose of preserving diversity.'

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

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

Write: 'The program was strengthened for the purpose of spreading values.'

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

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Say: 'I am here for the purpose of travel.'

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Say: 'I study for the purpose of a job.'

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Say: 'I exercise for the purpose of health.'

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Say: 'I meet people for the purpose of friendship.'

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Say: 'I use this for the purpose of research.'

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Say: 'We do this for the purpose of promotion.'

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Say: 'It is a business for the purpose of profit.'

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Say: 'We negotiated for the purpose of peace.'

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Say: 'It was made for the purpose of justice.'

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Say: 'We investigate for the purpose of truth.'

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Say: 'I bought this for the purpose of a gift.'

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Say: 'I go there for the purpose of rest.'

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Say: 'I read for the purpose of self-development.'

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Say: 'I use the app for the purpose of learning.'

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Say: 'We act for the purpose of protection.'

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Say: 'We help for the purpose of contribution.'

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Say: 'We improve for the purpose of satisfaction.'

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Say: 'We introduce this for the purpose of analysis.'

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Say: 'We sign for the purpose of preservation.'

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Say: 'We educate for the purpose of spreading values.'

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Listen and identify the purpose: '여행을 목적으로 왔습니다.'

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

Listen and identify the purpose: '공부를 목적으로 합니다.'

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

Listen and identify the purpose: '건강 관리를 목적으로 운동해요.'

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

Listen and identify the purpose: '친목 도모를 목적으로 모여요.'

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

Listen and identify the purpose: '홍보를 목적으로 이벤트를 열어요.'

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

Listen and identify the purpose: '환경 보호를 목적으로 합니다.'

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

Listen and identify the purpose: '수익 창출을 목적으로 하는 사업.'

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

Listen and identify the purpose: '평화 유지를 목적으로 협상해요.'

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

Listen and identify the purpose: '사회 정의 실현을 목적으로.'

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

Listen and identify the purpose: '역사적 진실 규명을 목적으로.'

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

Listen and identify the purpose: '선물을 목적으로 샀어요.'

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

Listen and identify the purpose: '식사를 목적으로 만나요.'

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

Listen and identify the purpose: '자기 계발을 목적으로 해요.'

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

Listen and identify the purpose: '범죄 예방을 목적으로 해요.'

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

Listen and identify the purpose: '기술 개발을 목적으로 해요.'

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

/ 185 correct

Perfect score!

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