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상속받다

B1 verb #8,000 most common 9 min read

상속받다

sangsokbatda Top 8,000

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips 상속받다 in 30 Seconds

Explanation 상속받다 in your Level:

At the A1 level, you don't need to use '상속받다' often because it is a bit formal. However, it is good to know that it means 'to get something from your family after they pass away.' You can think of it as a very serious way of saying 'I got this from my father.' At this stage, you should focus on the basic structure: 'Who (from) + What + 상속받다.' For example, '아빠한테서 돈을 상속받았어요' (I inherited money from my dad). Even though '물려받다' is easier for beginners, seeing '상속받다' in simple stories or dramas will help you understand that a big event has happened in the family. Just remember: it's about getting things like money or a house from older relatives.

At the A2 level, you can start using '상속받다' to describe family situations in a slightly more mature way. You might use it when talking about why someone is suddenly rich or who owns a family house. You should learn the particle '-로부터', which is the formal way to say 'from' (e.g., '부모님으로부터'). At this level, you can also understand the difference between '받다' (to receive) and '상속받다' (to inherit). While '받다' is for any gift, '상속받다' is specifically for inheritance. You might see this word in simple news clips or level-appropriate reading materials about famous people. Practice saying '저는 할머니로부터 이 집을 상속받았습니다' (I inherited this house from my grandmother).

At the B1 level, you should be able to use '상속받다' correctly in both legal and metaphorical contexts. This is the level where you understand that inheritance isn't just about money, but also about '가업' (family business) or '재능' (talent). You should be comfortable with the passive-active distinction between '상속하다' (to bequeath) and '상속받다' (to inherit). You will likely encounter this word in intermediate reading passages about Korean society, economy, or traditional culture. You should also start to notice the word in compound forms like '상속인' (heir) or '상속세' (inheritance tax). Try to use it in sentences that explain family history or the background of a business.

At the B2 level, you should use '상속받다' with precision, distinguishing it from '물려받다', '계승하다', and '증여받다'. You should understand the legal implications of the word, such as inheriting debts ('빚을 상속받다') and the ability to renounce inheritance ('상속을 포기하다'). In discussions about Korean dramas or literature, you can use this word to analyze character motivations—for example, why a character is obsessed with '상속받는 것' (inheriting things). You should also be able to use it in the context of abstract concepts like '정신' (spirit) or '전통' (tradition) in a formal speech or essay. Your sentences should be more complex, incorporating various clausal connectors like '-기 때문에' or '-음에도 불구하고'.

At the C1 level, you are expected to understand the socio-economic nuances of '상속받다' in Korean society. This includes the 'Chaebol' succession issues and the ethical debates surrounding inherited wealth versus earned wealth. You should be able to read academic or legal texts that use this word and understand the specific conditions under which someone '상속받을' rights are established or revoked. You can use the word in high-level debates about social mobility and '수저론' (spoon theory - gold spoon vs. dirt spoon). You should also be able to use it metaphorically in sophisticated literature or philosophical discussions, such as '인류가 상속받은 지구의 위기' (The crisis of the Earth inherited by humanity).

At the C2 level, you have a near-native command of '상속받다'. You understand its historical evolution and its place within the complex web of Korean civil law. You can navigate the most dense legal documents regarding inheritance without difficulty. You are aware of the subtle emotional connotations the word carries—ranging from the burden of duty to the greed of heirs. In creative writing or professional translation, you can choose between '상속받다' and its many synonyms to strike the exact right tone, whether it's clinical, legalistic, poetic, or archaic. You can discuss the nuances of how '상속받다' differs from concepts in other legal systems, such as common law vs. civil law inheritance.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

상속받다 in 30 Seconds

상속받다 means 'to inherit' property, titles, or traits, usually in a formal or legal context after someone passes away.
It is a compound of '상속' (inheritance) and '받다' (receive), used frequently in legal, business, and dramatic settings.
Commonly paired with '-로부터' (from) and '재산' (property) or '유산' (legacy).
Different from '물려받다' (more casual) and '증여받다' (gifted while the giver is alive).

The Korean verb 상속받다 (sangsok-batda) is a compound word formed from the Sino-Korean noun '상속' (inheritance/succession) and the native Korean verb '받다' (to receive). In its most literal sense, it refers to the legal process of an heir receiving property, assets, or titles upon the death of a predecessor, typically a parent or relative. However, its usage extends beyond simple financial transactions to encompass the acquisition of biological traits, cultural legacies, and even spiritual values. Understanding this word requires looking at the Confucian roots of Korean society, where the concept of lineage and the passing of family wealth and duty is central to social stability.

Legal Context: In South Korean law, this term specifically denotes the 'universal succession' of rights and duties from a deceased person. It is often paired with '상속인' (heir) and '상속세' (inheritance tax), which is a frequent topic of public debate due to Korea's high tax rates on large estates.

그는 할아버지로부터 거대한 저택을 상속받았다.

Translation: He inherited a massive mansion from his grandfather.

Beyond the legal realm, 상속받다 is used to describe the transmission of non-material things. While '물려받다' is often used for physical items or traits in a more casual, everyday sense, 상속받다 carries a slightly more formal or serious weight. You might hear people say they 'inherited' a specific talent or a family business. In Korean media, particularly K-dramas, the plot often revolves around '재벌' (chaebol) families fighting over who will 상속받다 the group’s management rights. This highlights that the word isn't just about money; it's about power, responsibility, and the weight of a name.

Biological Usage: Though '유전되다' (to be inherited genetically) is common in science, speakers often say they 'inherited' their father's nose or mother's eyes using 상속받다 in a more poetic or dramatic context, though 물려받다 is more frequent here.

우리는 조상들의 고귀한 정신을 상속받아 지켜나가야 합니다.

Translation: We must inherit and protect the noble spirit of our ancestors.

Finally, it is important to distinguish this from '증여받다' (to receive as a gift while the giver is alive). 상속받다 strictly implies the transfer happens after death. In the modern era, as Korea navigates shifting family dynamics where younger generations are less focused on traditional lineage, the word still retains its gravity, often appearing in news headlines regarding corporate succession or legal disputes over wills.

The grammatical structure of 상속받다 is relatively straightforward but requires attention to particles to ensure natural-sounding Korean. As a transitive verb, it requires an object (the thing being inherited) and often a source (the person from whom it is inherited). The standard pattern is: [Source]로부터 [Object]을/를 상속받다.

Formal Declarations: In legal or formal writing, you will see the full phrase. '그는 부친으로부터 막대한 유산을 상속받았다.' (He inherited a vast fortune from his father.) Here, '부친' (father - formal) and '유산' (inheritance/legacy) create a high-register tone.

법적으로 상속받을 권리가 있는 사람은 누구입니까?

Translation: Who is the person with the legal right to inherit?

When talking about intangible things like a family business or a title, the word functions similarly. For example, '가업을 상속받다' (to inherit the family business). In this case, it implies not just receiving assets but taking over the operations and responsibilities. This is a common theme in stories about traditional craftsmen or small restaurant owners who pass their 'secret recipe' or 'shop' down to their children.

Passive vs. Active: While '상속하다' means 'to bequeath' (the act of the giver), '상속받다' is the perspective of the receiver. It is more common in daily speech to focus on the receiver's experience.

그녀는 부모님의 예술적 재능을 고스란히 상속받았다.

Translation: She inherited her parents' artistic talent entirely.

One nuanced use involves the negative or conditional. '상속받지 않겠다' (I will not inherit) might be said by a character in a drama who wants to succeed on their own merits, or by someone renouncing a debt-ridden estate. In Korean law, one can '상속을 포기하다' (renounce inheritance), which is a common phrase used alongside 상속받다 when the liabilities exceed the assets.

In South Korea, the word 상속받다 is ubiquitous in both popular culture and serious news. If you are a fan of K-dramas, you have likely encountered this word within the first few episodes of any series involving a wealthy family. The 'Inheritors' (상속자들) is even the title of a very famous drama. In these contexts, the word is charged with tension, representing the struggle for power and the burden of family expectations. Characters often argue about who is 'worthy' to 상속받다 the company chair position.

News and Economy: In the business section of Korean newspapers (like Chosun Ilbo or JoongAng Ilbo), you'll see reports on how the children of Samsung or Hyundai chairmen are preparing to '상속받다' their shares. This is often followed by complex discussions on '상속세' (inheritance tax), which can be as high as 50-60% in Korea.

뉴스: 'A 그룹 회장의 장남이 경영권을 상속받기로 결정되었습니다.'

Translation: News: 'It has been decided that the eldest son of Group A's chairman will inherit the management rights.'

Another common setting is the legal office. When people visit a '법무사' (judicial scrivener) or '변호사' (lawyer) to discuss a will (유언장), the term 상속받다 is the standard technical term used in all documentation. Unlike the more casual '물려받다', which you might use while chatting with friends about a vintage watch your grandfather gave you, 상속받다 appears in the official papers that define your legal ownership.

Everyday Conversations: While less common in casual banter than '물려받다', it is used when the scale of the inheritance is significant. If someone suddenly becomes very wealthy, friends might gossip, "걔 이번에 땅 좀 상속받았대." (I heard he inherited some land this time.)

친구 사이: '너네 집은 그 건물을 누가 상속받게 되니?'

Translation: Between friends: 'In your family, who is going to inherit that building?'

Finally, you will hear it in historical documentaries or period dramas (Sa-geuk). The crown prince (세자) '상속받다' the throne (왕위). Even though '계승하다' (to succeed) is also used for titles, 상속받다 emphasizes the transfer of the kingdom as a form of ancestral property. In summary, whether it's a legal dispute, a corporate takeover, or a dramatic plot twist, this word is the go-to term for the serious business of passing things down through generations.

One of the most frequent mistakes learners make is confusing 상속받다 with its synonym 물려받다. While they both translate to 'to inherit' in English, their usage environments differ. 상속받다 is more formal and often implies a legal or large-scale transfer. Using 상속받다 for a small, casual item like an old sweater might sound overly dramatic or stiff. For small items or general traits, '물려받다' is much more natural.

Particle Errors: Learners sometimes use the particle '-에게' (to) instead of '-로부터' (from) for the source. Remember, you are *receiving* from someone. Saying '아버지가 나에게 상속받았다' would mean 'My father inherited from me,' which is usually the opposite of what is intended.

❌ 부모님을 상속받았어요. (Incorrect)
✅ 부모님으로부터 재산을 상속받았어요. (Correct)

Explanation: You inherit property (재산), not the parents themselves.

Another mistake is confusing the active and passive roles. 상속하다 is the act of giving (bequeathing), while 상속받다 is the act of receiving. If a wealthy person is writing a will, they are '상속하는 사람' (the person who bequeaths), and the children are '상속받는 사람' (the people who inherit). Mixing these up can lead to significant confusion in legal or formal contexts.

Overusing with Genetics: While technically possible to use for genes, it sounds very clinical or legalistic. If you want to say you have your mother's eyes in a casual conversation, stick to '물려받다'. Use 상속받다 only if you want to sound like you're in a science textbook or a very serious drama.

그는 아버지의 빚을 상속받았다.

Context: This is a common phrase. In Korea, you can inherit debt (빚) as well as assets, which is a crucial legal point.

Lastly, pay attention to the honorifics. If you are talking about someone highly respected (like a grandfather) inheriting something, you might need to use '상속받으셨다'. However, the verb '받다' itself doesn't have a high-honorific equivalent like '드리다' (which is for giving), so '-으시다' is the primary way to show respect to the subject.

To master the use of 상속받다, it's essential to compare it with other verbs that deal with the concept of passing things down or receiving them from ancestors. Each has a specific nuance and register.

물려받다 (Mulryeo-batda): The most common alternative. It is used for everything from physical property to personality traits and habits. It is less formal than 상속받다.
Example: '어머니께 이 반지를 물려받았어요.' (I inherited this ring from my mother.)
계승하다 (Gye-seung-hada): Focuses on the succession of a tradition, spirit, or a high-ranking position (like a throne or leadership). It sounds very grand and cultural.
Example: '전통 문화를 계승하다.' (To succeed/carry on traditional culture.)
증여받다 (Jeung-yeo-batda): A legal term meaning to receive assets as a gift while the donor is still alive. This is the technical opposite of 상속받다 in tax law.
Example: '그는 살아생전 아버지께 주식을 증여받았다.' (He was gifted stocks by his father while he was still alive.)

Comparison:
1. 재산을 상속받다 (Legal/Formal inheritance)
2. 습관을 물려받다 (Casual/Habitual inheritance)
3. 왕위를 계승하다 (Succession of title)

Another related term is 이어받다 (ieo-batda), which literally means 'to take over' or 'to continue'. It is often used for taking over a task, a race (like a relay), or a legacy. It emphasizes the continuity of an action rather than the legal ownership of an asset. For instance, '선배의 뜻을 이어받다' (to carry on a senior's will/intention).

Finally, in scientific contexts, you might see 유전받다 (yujeon-batda), which specifically refers to genetic inheritance. While you could say you '상속받다' a disease in a very dramatic way, '유전받다' is the correct medical term. In summary, choosing the right word depends on whether you are in a courtroom (상속), a living room (물려), a history book (계승), or a hospital (유전).

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

The Hanja '續' (sok) also appears in words like '연속' (continuity) and '접속' (connection), emphasizing that inheritance is seen as a 'connection' between generations.

Pronunciation Guide

UK sʰaŋsʰo̞k̚p͈at̚t͈a

US sʰaŋsʰo̞k̚p͈at̚t͈a

Stress is generally even across syllables in Korean, but the first syllable '상' may carry a slightly higher pitch for emphasis.

Rhymes With

단속받다 (dansok-batda) 구속받다 (gusok-batda) 접속받다 (jeopsok-batda) 감독받다 (gamdok-batda) 설득받다 (seoldeuk-batda) 지속받다 (jisok-batda) 위탁받다 (witak-batda) 허락받다 (heorak-batda)

Common Errors

Pronouncing '받다' as 'bada' without the tense 'tt' sound.
Muffling the 'ng' sound in '상'.
Confusing the vowel 'ㅗ' in '속' with 'ㅜ'.
Failing to aspirate the 's' in '상' and '속'.
Treating it as two separate words with a pause in between.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 3/5

Common in news and books, though Hanja-based.

Writing 4/5

Requires correct particle usage and formal tone.

Speaking 3/5

Used in serious family or business conversations.

Listening 3/5

Clear pronunciation but often appears in fast news segments.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

받다 돈 집 부모님 가족

Learn Next

상속세 유언장 증여 계승 권리

Advanced

피상속인 직계비속 유류분 한정승인

Grammar to Know

Noun + 로부터 (From)

친구로부터 선물을 받았다.

Verb + 게 되다 (To come to/become)

우연히 그 소식을 듣게 되었다.

Verb + 기 위해 (In order to)

성공하기 위해 열심히 공부한다.

Noun + 에 따르면 (According to)

기상청에 따르면 오늘 비가 온다고 한다.

Verb + 음에도 불구하고 (Despite)

비가 옴에도 불구하고 경기는 계속되었다.

Examples by Level

나는 돈을 상속받았어요.

I inherited money.

Past tense of 상속받다.

그는 집을 상속받아요.

He inherits a house.

Present tense.

누가 상속받아요?

Who inherits (it)?

Interrogative form.

아빠한테서 상속받았어요.

I inherited (it) from my dad.

Using -한테서 (from).

상속받고 싶어요.

I want to inherit.

-고 싶다 (want to).

언니가 상속받았어요.

My older sister inherited (it).

Subject marker -가.

우리는 땅을 상속받았다.

We inherited land.

Plain style past tense.

이것은 상속받은 거예요.

This is something I inherited.

Noun modifying form -은.

부모님으로부터 큰 집을 상속받았습니다.

I inherited a large house from my parents.

-로부터 is more formal than -한테서.

그녀는 할머니의 보석을 상속받았어요.

She inherited her grandmother's jewelry.

Possessive marker -의.

형이 모든 재산을 상속받게 되었어요.

My older brother came to inherit all the property.

-게 되다 indicates a change or result.

상속받은 돈으로 차를 샀어요.

I bought a car with the inherited money.

-으로 (with/using).

누가 이 건물을 상속받을까요?

Who do you think will inherit this building?

-을까요 (guessing/wondering).

아무것도 상속받지 못했습니다.

I couldn't inherit anything.

-지 못하다 (cannot).

그는 가업을 상속받아서 운영하고 있어요.

He inherited the family business and is running it.

-어서 (reason/sequence).

상속받을 때 세금을 내야 해요.

You have to pay tax when you inherit.

-을 때 (when).

법적으로 상속받을 권리가 있는지 확인해 보세요.

Check if you have the legal right to inherit.

-는지 확인하다 (check whether).

그는 막대한 유산을 상속받았음에도 불구하고 검소하게 삽니다.

Despite inheriting a huge legacy, he lives frugally.

-음에도 불구하고 (despite).

부모님의 외모뿐만 아니라 성격도 상속받은 것 같아요.

It seems I inherited not only my parents' looks but also their personality.

-뿐만 아니라 (not only... but also).

그녀는 갑자기 상속받은 재산 때문에 큰 혼란을 겪고 있다.

She is experiencing great confusion because of the property she suddenly inherited.

Noun + 때문에 (because of).

상속받기로 한 약속을 어길 수는 없습니다.

I cannot break the promise to inherit.

-기로 하다 (decide to).

전통적인 기술을 상속받을 후계자를 찾고 있습니다.

We are looking for a successor to inherit traditional skills.

Noun modifying form -을.

빚도 상속받을 수 있다는 사실을 알고 계셨나요?

Did you know that you can also inherit debt?

-을 수 있다 (can).

그는 아버지의 이름을 상속받아 가문을 빛내고 싶어 한다.

He wants to inherit his father's name and bring honor to the family.

Third person desire -고 싶어 하다.

상속받은 재산을 어떻게 관리하느냐가 가장 중요한 문제입니다.

How you manage the inherited property is the most important issue.

-느냐가 (indirect question as subject).

그는 경영권을 상속받기 위해 수년간 혹독한 훈련을 거쳤다.

He went through years of rigorous training to inherit the management rights.

-기 위해 (in order to).

유언장에 따르면, 모든 재산은 사회복지단체가 상속받게 됩니다.

According to the will, all assets will be inherited by a social welfare organization.

-에 따르면 (according to).

상속받을 자산보다 부채가 더 많다면 상속 포기를 고려해야 합니다.

If the liabilities are greater than the assets to be inherited, you should consider renouncing the inheritance.

-다면 (if - hypothetical).

그는 부친의 예술적 감각을 그대로 상속받아 천재적인 화가가 되었다.

He inherited his father's artistic sense exactly as it was and became a genius painter.

Adverbial '그대로' (as it is).

우리 세대가 상속받은 환경 문제를 해결하는 것은 우리의 의무입니다.

It is our duty to solve the environmental problems inherited by our generation.

Gerund form -는 것.

상속받을 당시에는 그 가치를 제대로 몰랐던 보물입니다.

It is a treasure whose value I didn't properly know at the time of inheriting it.

-을 당시에 (at the time of).

법원은 그가 재산을 상속받을 자격이 없다고 판결했다.

The court ruled that he is not qualified to inherit the property.

Indirect speech -고 판결하다.

한국 사회에서 부의 대물림, 즉 상속받는 행위에 대한 비판적 시각이 존재한다.

In Korean society, there is a critical perspective on the passing down of wealth, namely the act of inheriting.

Apposition '즉' (that is to say).

그는 가문의 명예를 상속받았으나, 그 무게를 견디지 못하고 방황했다.

He inherited the honor of his family, but unable to bear its weight, he wandered aimlessly.

-으나 (but - formal).

역사적으로 볼 때, 왕위를 상속받는 과정은 늘 권력 투쟁을 동반해 왔다.

Historically speaking, the process of inheriting the throne has always been accompanied by power struggles.

-아/어 오다 (progressive action from past to present).

상속받을 유산이 적더라도 부모님의 정신적 유산을 소중히 여겨야 한다.

Even if the legacy to be inherited is small, one must cherish the spiritual legacy of their parents.

-더라도 (even if).

그는 스승의 학문적 업적을 상속받아 이를 더욱 발전시키는 데 평생을 바쳤다.

He inherited his teacher's academic achievements and dedicated his life to developing them further.

-는 데 (in the act of/for the purpose of).

상속받은 권력은 정당성을 확보하지 못할 경우 쉽게 무너질 수 있다.

Inherited power can easily collapse if it fails to secure legitimacy.

-을 경우 (in the event that).

디지털 자산을 상속받는 절차에 대한 법적 논의가 활발하게 이루어지고 있다.

Legal discussions regarding the procedure for inheriting digital assets are actively taking place.

Passive form '이루어지다'.

인간은 자연으로부터 지구라는 거대한 터전을 상속받은 존재에 불과하다.

Humans are nothing more than beings who have inherited the vast habitat called Earth from nature.

-에 불과하다 (nothing more than).

상속받은 부가 계층 간의 이동을 가로막는 장벽으로 작용해서는 안 된다.

Inherited wealth must not act as a barrier that blocks mobility between social classes.

-어서는 안 된다 (must not).

그는 선대 회장의 경영 철학을 상속받아 기업의 사회적 책임을 강조하는 혁신을 단행했다.

Inheriting the management philosophy of the previous chairman, he carried out innovations emphasizing corporate social responsibility.

Advanced vocabulary '단행하다' (to carry out resolutely).

유산 상속을 둘러싼 골육상쟁은 동서고금을 막론하고 비극의 단골 소재였다.

Fratricidal strife surrounding inheritance has been a regular subject of tragedy regardless of time or place.

Idiom '동서고금을 막론하고' (regardless of time and space).

상속받을 권리가 박탈된 그는 자신의 운명을 스스로 개척하기로 결심했다.

Having been deprived of his right to inherit, he decided to carve out his own destiny.

Passive '박탈되다' (to be deprived).

민법상 상속받을 순위는 직계비속, 직계존속, 형제자매 순으로 규정되어 있다.

Under civil law, the order of inheritance is defined as lineal descendants, lineal ascendants, and then siblings.

Legal terminology '직계비속/존속'.

우리는 조상들로부터 상속받은 이 아름다운 강산을 후손에게 온전히 물려주어야 한다.

We must pass down this beautiful land and mountains, inherited from our ancestors, intact to our descendants.

Contrast between 상속받다 and 물려주다.

상속받은 지식에 안주하지 않고 끊임없이 진리를 탐구하는 자세가 필요하다.

A posture of constantly seeking truth without becoming complacent with inherited knowledge is necessary.

-에 안주하지 않고 (not being complacent with).

그는 천부적인 목소리를 상속받았음에도 불구하고 피나는 연습을 게을리하지 않았다.

Despite inheriting a god-given voice, he did not neglect blood-sweating practice.

Idiom '피나는 연습' (bloody/extremely hard practice).

Common Collocations

재산을 상속받다

유산을 상속받다

가업을 상속받다

빚을 상속받다

경영권을 상속받다

땅을 상속받다

순위를 상속받다

재능을 상속받다

권리를 상속받다

왕위를 상속받다

Common Phrases

상속받을 사람

— The person who will inherit (the heir).

상속받을 사람이 나타나지 않았다.

법적으로 상속받다

— To inherit through legal channels.

이 집은 제가 법적으로 상속받은 것입니다.

모두 상속받다

— To inherit everything.

그는 아버지의 재산을 모두 상속받았다.

고스란히 상속받다

— To inherit something exactly as it was, without loss.

그녀는 엄마의 미모를 고스란히 상속받았다.

공동으로 상속받다

— To inherit jointly with others.

삼 형제가 건물을 공동으로 상속받았다.

상속받은 바가 없다

— To have inherited nothing.

나는 부모님께 상속받은 바가 전혀 없다.

상속받기에 충분하다

— To be sufficient to inherit.

그는 가업을 상속받기에 충분한 실력을 갖췄다.

순차적으로 상속받다

— To inherit in a specific order.

재산은 자녀들에게 순차적으로 상속받게 된다.

억지로 상속받다

— To be forced to inherit (often used for debts or unwanted duties).

그는 원치 않는 직책을 억지로 상속받았다.

미리 상속받다

— To receive inheritance early (often used loosely for 'gifted').

그는 결혼할 때 집을 미리 상속받았다.

Often Confused With

상속받다 vs 물려받다

More casual, used for small things or traits. 상속받다 is for big assets/legalities.

상속받다 vs 증여받다

Received while the giver is alive. 상속받다 is after death.

상속받다 vs 이어받다

Focuses on continuing a task or spirit, not necessarily legal ownership.

Idioms & Expressions

"금수저를 물고 태어나다"

— To be born with a silver spoon (implies inheriting great wealth).

그는 금수저를 물고 태어나 막대한 재산을 상속받았다.

Slang/Informal

"대를 잇다"

— To carry on the family line/tradition.

그는 가업을 상속받아 대를 잇고 있다.

Neutral

"씨도둑은 못 한다"

— One cannot steal seeds (meaning children look/act exactly like their parents due to inheritance).

아들이 아빠랑 똑같네, 씨도둑은 못 한다더니 재능을 그대로 상속받았어.

Informal/Proverb

"부자 3대 못 간다"

— Wealth doesn't last three generations (cautioning against mismanaging inherited wealth).

재산을 상속받아도 관리를 못 하면 부자 3대 못 가는 법이다.

Proverb

"뿌리 깊은 나무"

— A deep-rooted tree (implies a strong family legacy inherited over generations).

그 가문은 상속받은 정신이 훌륭한 뿌리 깊은 나무와 같다.

Literary

"피는 못 속인다"

— Blood cannot be hidden (similar to 'it's in the blood').

그가 노래를 잘하는 걸 보니 피는 못 속인다, 아버지의 목소리를 상속받았어.

Informal

"가문을 빛내다"

— To bring honor to the family (often expected of those who inherit a name).

상속받은 이름을 더럽히지 말고 가문을 빛내라.

Formal

"등골을 빼먹다"

— To suck the marrow out of the spine (to live off parents' money instead of earning).

재산만 상속받으려 하지 말고 네 힘으로 살아라.

Slang/Aggressive

"바닥을 드러내다"

— To show the bottom (to run out of inherited wealth).

상속받은 돈이 벌써 바닥을 드러냈다.

Neutral

"유종의 미를 거두다"

— To bring a project to a successful conclusion (often used when finishing a legacy task).

선친의 사업을 상속받아 유종의 미를 거두었다.

Formal

Easily Confused

상속받다 vs 상속하다

Looks almost identical.

상속하다 is to give/bequeath; 상속받다 is to receive/inherit.

아버지가 재산을 상속하셨고, 나는 그것을 상속받았다.

상속받다 vs 계승하다

Both involve passing things down.

계승하다 is for titles, traditions, or spirits. 상속받다 is mostly for property.

그는 왕위를 계승했다.

상속받다 vs 양도하다

Both involve transfer of property.

양도하다 is a general transfer (sale or gift) between any parties. 상속받다 is specific to heirs after death.

그는 친구에게 권리를 양도했다.

상속받다 vs 수여하다

Both involve receiving something.

수여하다 is an official awarding of a prize or degree by an institution.

대학은 그에게 박사 학위를 수여했다.

상속받다 vs 취득하다

Both mean getting something.

취득하다 is to acquire a license, qualification, or property through effort or purchase.

그는 운전면허를 취득했다.

Sentence Patterns

[Person]한테서 [Object]을/를 상속받았어요.

할아버지한테서 시계를 상속받았어요.

[Person]로부터 [Object]을/를 상속받게 되었습니다.

부모님으로부터 집을 상속받게 되었습니다.

상속받은 [Object]을/를 어떻게 [Verb]?

상속받은 돈을 어떻게 쓸 거예요?

[Object]을/를 상속받을 권리가 있다/없다.

그는 재산을 상속받을 권리가 없습니다.

상속받은 [Object] 덕분에 [Result].

상속받은 땅 덕분에 부자가 되었어요.

[Object]을/를 상속받는 과정에서 [Problem]이 발생했다.

재산을 상속받는 과정에서 형제간에 다툼이 발생했다.

[Abstract]을/를 상속받아 계승해 나가다.

조상의 선비 정신을 상속받아 계승해 나가야 합니다.

[Object]의 상속 여부를 두고 [Conflict].

경영권 상속 여부를 두고 이사회가 분열되었다.

Word Family

Nouns

상속 (Inheritance)

상속인 (Heir)

상속세 (Inheritance tax)

상속자 (Inheritor)

상속물 (Inherited property)

피상속인 (The deceased/bequeather)

Verbs

상속하다 (To bequeath)

상속시키다 (To make someone inherit)

Adjectives

상속 가능한 (Inheritable)

유산 (Legacy)

가업 (Family business)

증여 (Gift/Endowment)

계승 (Succession)

물려주다 (To hand down)

How to Use It

frequency

High in news, medium in daily life.

Common Mistakes

Using '-에게' instead of '-로부터' for the source. → 부모님으로부터 상속받다.
'-로부터' emphasizes the origin or source of a formal transfer better than '-에게'.
Using '상속받다' for a small gift while the person is alive. → 선물을 받다 / 증여받다.
Inheritance only occurs after death.
Confusing '상속받다' with '상속하다'. → 아들이 재산을 상속받다.
The heir receives (받다); the deceased bequeaths (하다).
Using it for casual genetic traits like 'tall height'. → 키가 큰 것을 물려받다.
상속받다 sounds too much like a legal transaction for casual traits.
Misspelling as '상속받따'. → 상속받다.
The pronunciation is [bat-tta], but the spelling remains '받다'.

Tips

Particle Choice

Always use '-로부터' for the person you inherit from in formal writing to sound more natural.

Formal vs. Casual

Remember: 상속받다 is for the lawyer's office; 물려받다 is for the dinner table.

Debt Inheritance

Be aware that in Korea, '상속받다' can be a bad thing if you are inheriting '빚' (debt).

Chaebol Tropes

When you hear '경영권' (management rights), the next word is almost always '상속받다'.

Abstract Use

Use it for '정신' (spirit) or '전통' (tradition) to give your writing a dignified, historical feel.

Inheritance Tax

The word '상속세' (tax) is a constant companion to '상속받다' in Korean society.

Pronunciation

Don't forget the tense 'ㄸ' sound in '받다' [bat-tta].

Will and Testament

The word '유언장' (will) is the most common trigger for the action of '상속받다'.

Gift vs. Inherit

If the money comes before death, it's '증여'; if after, it's '상속'.

Hanja Power

Knowing '상속' (相續) helps you understand other words ending in '속' like '연속' (continuity).

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of 'Sangsok' as 'Succession' and 'Batda' as 'Get'. You 'Succession-Get' money from your parents.

Visual Association

Imagine a long golden chain (Sok/Connection) being handed from an old hand to a young hand (Batda/Receive).

Word Web

Money (돈) House (집) Will (유언장) Law (법) Family (가족) Death (죽음) Tax (세금) Successor (후계자)

Challenge

Try to write three things you would like to inherit from your ancestors—one physical, one mental, and one cultural—using the word 상속받다.

Word Origin

Composed of the Sino-Korean word '상속' (相續) and the native Korean verb '받다'.

Original meaning: 相 (Mutual/Each other) + 續 (Continue/Connect) = To continue the connection (of a family/property).

Sino-Korean (Hanja) + Native Korean.

Cultural Context

Be careful when discussing inheritance with Koreans, as it often implies the death of a parent, which is a sensitive topic. Use polite language (상속받으셨다) if referring to someone else's situation.

In English-speaking cultures, 'inherit' is used broadly. In Korea, using '상속받다' for small items like a book might sound too formal; '물려받다' is preferred.

The K-drama 'The Heirs' (상속자들) explores the lives of students who will inherit huge corporations. The 'Samsung Inheritance Tax' is a famous real-world news event involving billions of dollars. The movie 'Parasite' subtly deals with the lack of things to inherit for the poor family.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Legal/Court

상속을 포기하다
상속권을 주장하다
법정 상속인
유언장 확인

Business/Economy

경영권 승계
상속세 납부
주식 상속
가업 승계

Family/Personal

부모님 재산
집을 물려받다
유산을 나누다
형제간의 갈등

Biology/Health

유전병
체질을 상속받다
외모가 닮다
유전적 요인

Culture/History

전통 계승
정신을 이어받다
문화유산
역사적 사명

Conversation Starters

"나중에 부모님으로부터 가업을 상속받을 계획이 있으신가요?"

"한국의 상속세가 너무 높다고 생각하시나요?"

"재산보다 정신적인 유산을 상속받는 것이 더 중요할까요?"

"만약 막대한 유산을 상속받는다면 가장 먼저 무엇을 하고 싶으세요?"

"형제들과 재산을 상속받는 문제로 갈등이 생긴다면 어떻게 해결하시겠어요?"

Journal Prompts

부모님으로부터 상속받고 싶은 가장 소중한 가치는 무엇인지 써 보세요.

내가 미래의 자녀에게 상속해 주고 싶은 것들에 대해 리스트를 만들어 보세요.

상속받은 재산이 사람의 인생을 행복하게 만드는지, 아니면 불행하게 만드는지에 대한 자신의 생각을 적어 보세요.

한국 드라마에서 자주 나오는 상속 갈등 장면에 대해 느낀 점을 써 보세요.

물질적인 상속과 정신적인 상속 중 어느 것이 더 지속 가능한지 논해 보세요.

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

Yes, but it sounds very formal. '물려받다' is much more common for personality traits in daily speech. For example, '엄마 성격을 상속받았어' sounds like you're in a psychological study.

상속받다 is typically used for general property and assets within a family. 승계받다 is more common in business or politics for taking over a position, office, or management rights.

Legally, yes. If the person is alive, the correct term is '증여받다' (to receive a gift). Using 상속받다 while they are alive is a factual error in Korean.

You say '빚을 많이 상속받았어요'. In Korea, debts are part of the inheritance unless you legally renounce them.

You can add the honorific infix '-으시-' to make it '상속받으셨다' if the subject is someone you respect.

It means 'inheritor' or 'heir'. It's the noun form for the person who does the '상속받다' action.

Usually, individuals inherit. However, a corporation can be a beneficiary in a will, though terms like '수증하다' (receive a gift) or '인수하다' (acquire) might be used depending on the context.

Yes, but '유전받다' is the more precise medical term. '상속받다' might be used for dramatic effect in a story.

You can say '아무것도 상속받고 싶지 않아요' or legally '상속을 포기하고 싶어요'.

It is very common in news, law, and dramas, but only moderately common in casual daily life unless discussing family property.