It describes someone who lacks the necessary competence or ability to perform a role effectively.
Word in 30 Seconds
- Lacking the ability or skill to perform tasks.
- Often used to criticize professional or leadership performance.
- Describes a state of being ineffective or incompetent.
개요
'무능하다'는 한자어 '無(없을 무)'와 '能(능할 능)'이 결합된 단어로, 말 그대로 능력이 없다는 뜻입니다. 어떤 과제를 수행하거나 문제를 해결할 때 필요한 역량이 결여된 상태를 의미합니다. 2) 사용 패턴: 주로 '무능한 사람', '무능한 관리자', '무능하다는 평가를 받다'와 같이 명사를 수식하거나 서술어로 쓰입니다. 주어의 자질이나 성과가 기대에 미치지 못할 때 비판적인 의미로 자주 사용됩니다. 3) 공통 문맥: 직장 내에서 업무 처리가 미숙하거나, 정치적 상황에서 지도자의 리더십이 부족할 때 자주 등장합니다. 또한 개인적인 성취가 낮을 때 스스로를 낮추거나 타인을 비난하는 맥락에서 쓰입니다. 4) 유의어 비교: '서툴다'는 기술적인 숙련도가 부족함을 의미하지만, '무능하다'는 전체적인 역량이나 자질 자체가 부족하다는 더 포괄적이고 부정적인 뉘앙스를 담고 있습니다.
Examples
그 관리자는 무능해서 팀원들이 고생한다.
everydayThe manager is incompetent, so the team members suffer.
정부의 무능한 대처가 큰 비판을 받았다.
formalThe government's incompetent response received heavy criticism.
나는 내가 무능하다고 느껴질 때가 있다.
informalSometimes I feel like I am incompetent.
지도자의 무능함이 국가의 쇠락을 초래했다.
academicThe leader's incompetence led to the decline of the nation.
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
무능의 극치
The height of incompetence
무능을 탓하다
Blame one's incompetence
무능함을 입증하다
Prove one's incompetence
Often Confused With
Refers to a lack of skill or practice in a specific task. It is less about overall character and more about a temporary state of inexperience.
Grammar Patterns
How to Use It
Usage Notes
This word is a strong adjective used to describe a lack of capability. It is formal and often carries a negative, critical connotation. Avoid using it in casual social settings unless you intend to be very harsh.
Common Mistakes
Learners often use it to mean 'busy' or 'tired', but it has no relation to those states. It specifically refers to the quality of performance or ability. Do not confuse it with '무력하다', which can also mean feeling powerless or lethargic.
Tips
Use with caution in professional settings
Because this word is highly critical, avoid using it directly to someone's face. Use softer alternatives like '역량이 부족하다' if you need to provide constructive feedback.
Avoid using it as an insult
Calling someone '무능하다' can be considered a verbal attack. It is better to focus on specific behaviors rather than labeling the person's character.
Hierarchy and competence in Korea
In Korean corporate culture, questioning someone's competence is a serious matter. It is often discussed behind closed doors rather than openly in meetings.
Word Origin
Derived from the Sino-Korean characters 無 (no/none) and 能 (ability/talent). It literally translates to 'having no ability'.
Cultural Context
In a society that values education and professional achievement, being labeled as '무능하다' is a significant social stigma. It is rarely used lightly and can cause deep offense.
Memory Tip
Think of 'No(無) Ability(能)'. If you have 'No-Ability', you are '무능하다'.
Frequently Asked Questions
3 questions매우 부정적이고 공격적인 표현이므로 사람에게 직접 사용하면 큰 실례가 될 수 있습니다. 특히 직장 상사나 동료에게 사용하면 관계가 악화될 수 있으니 주의해야 합니다.
반대말은 '유능하다'입니다. '유능하다'는 어떤 일을 처리할 수 있는 능력이 뛰어나다는 긍정적인 의미를 담고 있습니다.
네, 주로 비판적인 평가나 뉴스, 보고서 등 격식 있는 상황에서 상황을 객관적으로 평가할 때 자주 쓰입니다.
Test Yourself
그는 중요한 프로젝트를 맡았지만, 결국 ___ 모습을 보였다.
프로젝트를 제대로 처리하지 못했으므로 '무능한'이 문맥상 적절합니다.
Score: /1
Summary
It describes someone who lacks the necessary competence or ability to perform a role effectively.
- Lacking the ability or skill to perform tasks.
- Often used to criticize professional or leadership performance.
- Describes a state of being ineffective or incompetent.
Use with caution in professional settings
Because this word is highly critical, avoid using it directly to someone's face. Use softer alternatives like '역량이 부족하다' if you need to provide constructive feedback.
Avoid using it as an insult
Calling someone '무능하다' can be considered a verbal attack. It is better to focus on specific behaviors rather than labeling the person's character.
Hierarchy and competence in Korea
In Korean corporate culture, questioning someone's competence is a serious matter. It is often discussed behind closed doors rather than openly in meetings.
Examples
4 of 4그 관리자는 무능해서 팀원들이 고생한다.
The manager is incompetent, so the team members suffer.
정부의 무능한 대처가 큰 비판을 받았다.
The government's incompetent response received heavy criticism.
나는 내가 무능하다고 느껴질 때가 있다.
Sometimes I feel like I am incompetent.
지도자의 무능함이 국가의 쇠락을 초래했다.
The leader's incompetence led to the decline of the nation.
Related Content
Related Vocabulary
More work words
주 5일제
A2A system where one works five days a week, typically Monday to Friday.
결근
A2Absence from work; not being present at work.
결근하다
A2To be absent from work.
추상적이다
A2To be abstract.
출입증
A2ID card, access card.
회계
B1The systematic recording and reporting of financial transactions.
경리
A2Accounting or bookkeeping, managing financial records.
업적
B1A notable achievement or accomplishment.
적극적이다
A2To be active, to be proactive.
적극적으로
B1In an active, proactive, or enthusiastic manner.
