This page in your language

فارسی

العربية

Deutsch

Español

Français

日本語

한국어

Português

中文

हिन्दी

Home
Learn
Korean
Vocabulary
미비하다

B2 adjective #5,500 most common 9 min read

미비하다

mibihada Top 5,500

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips 미비하다 in 30 Seconds

Explanation 미비하다 in your Level:

At the A1 level, '미비하다' is quite difficult. You don't need to use it yet. Instead, you usually learn '없어요' (don't have) or '안 됐어요' (not done). For example, if you want to say 'The food is not ready,' you say '음식이 아직 안 됐어요.' '미비하다' is a very formal word used in news or offices. Think of it like the difference between saying 'It's not ready' and 'The preparatory measures are currently insufficient.' As an A1 student, just focus on understanding that this word means 'something is missing' when you see it on a sign or in a formal notice. You might see it at a construction site where things aren't finished yet. It's helpful to recognize the '미' (mi) part, which often means 'not' in formal Korean words. Don't worry about speaking it for now; just recognize that it's a formal way to say 'not ready' or 'incomplete.'

At the A2 level, you are starting to learn more formal endings like -(스)ㅂ니다. You might encounter '미비하다' in written notices. For instance, if a library is closed for repairs, a sign might say '시설 미비로 인해 휴관합니다' (Closed due to inadequate facilities/incomplete preparation). You should understand that this is a formal version of '준비가 안 됐어요.' If you are applying for a visa or a school program and you miss a document, the officer might tell you '서류가 미비해요.' This is a very important situation to recognize! It means you need to bring more papers. You don't need to use this word in your daily life with friends, but starting to recognize it in official settings will help you navigate life in Korea much better. It is specifically used for things like 'preparations' (준비) and 'facilities' (시설).

At the B1 level, you should be able to understand '미비하다' when you hear it on the news or read it in a newspaper. You are moving beyond basic survival Korean into 'social' Korean. This word is perfect for describing why a plan or a project isn't working yet. For example, in a class presentation about a social problem, you could say '법이 미비해서 문제가 생깁니다' (Problems occur because the law is inadequate). This sounds much more professional than saying '법이 없어서' (Because there is no law). You should also be able to distinguish it from '부족하다.' While '부족하다' is for things you can count (like money or people), '미비하다' is for the 'completeness' of a system. If you say '준비가 부족해요,' it sounds like you need more time. If you say '준비가 미비해요,' it sounds like you forgot to bring the necessary tools or documents. Start practicing this word in formal writing or presentations.

At the B2 level, you are expected to use '미비하다' accurately in professional or academic contexts. This is a key vocabulary item for this level because it allows for nuanced criticism. You should use it when discussing administrative failures, safety issues, or legal loopholes. For instance, during a business meeting, if a colleague's proposal is missing essential data, you might say, '이 제안서는 데이터가 다소 미비한 것 같습니다' (This proposal seems a bit inadequate in terms of data). This is a polite but firm way to point out a flaw. You should also be familiar with the attributive form '미비한' and the conjunctive '미비하여/미비해서.' You should understand that this word implies a gap between what is *required* by a standard and what is *actually* present. It is an objective term. When you use '미비하다,' you are focusing on the 'state of the system' rather than the 'effort of the people.' This distinction is vital for professional communication in Korea.

At the C1 level, you should have a complete grasp of '미비하다' and its related Hanja terms. You should be able to use it in complex sentence structures and understand its subtle differences from '미흡하다,' '부족하다,' and '허술하다.' In a C1 level discussion, you might use '미비하다' to critique a complex policy or a scientific methodology. For example: '본 연구는 표본의 대표성이 미비하다는 한계가 있다' (This study has a limitation in that the representativeness of the sample is inadequate). You should also be able to recognize it in classical-style formal writing where Hanja roots are heavy. You might see phrases like '미비점' (inadequate points) or '미비 사항' (matters that are incomplete). At this level, you are not just using the word; you are using it to build a logical, persuasive argument in high-level debates or academic writing. You should also be aware of how the word is used in the media to imply corporate or governmental negligence without using overly emotional language.

At the C2 level, '미비하다' is a word you use instinctively in the correct register. You understand the historical and legal weight it carries. You can use it in high-level legal analysis or policy drafting. For a C2 speaker, the word is part of a sophisticated vocabulary that includes terms like '완비 (fully equipped),' '정비 (reorganizing/fixing),' and '구비 (having the necessary items).' You can appreciate the rhetorical power of the word in a speech, where it can be used to highlight a systemic failure while maintaining a dignified, formal tone. You can also notice when a native speaker uses the word 'ironically' or 'metaphorically' in a non-formal context to sound intentionally bureaucratic. Your understanding extends to the full range of its Hanja implications, allowing you to easily learn and use related words like '미비점 보완' (supplementing incomplete points) as a single conceptual unit. You are also able to correct others' usage of the word, explaining the precise difference between qualitative '미흡' and structural '미비' with ease.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

미비하다 in 30 Seconds

미비하다 means 'incomplete' or 'inadequate' in a formal sense.
It targets systems, laws, preparations, and facilities rather than personal items.
Commonly found in news reports, legal critiques, and official business contexts.
The opposite is '완비되다' (fully equipped) or '충분하다' (sufficient).

The Korean adjective 미비하다 (未備--) is a formal and precise term used to describe a state where something is not yet fully prepared, lacks necessary components, or falls short of a required standard. It is most frequently encountered in professional, administrative, and legal contexts. Unlike the common word '부족하다' (to be lacking), which can describe a simple shortage of food or money, 미비하다 specifically targets the 'preparedness' or 'completeness' of a system, a set of documents, a law, or a facility. It suggests that while the thing exists, it is functionally incomplete or structurally deficient.

Core Concept: The term is composed of the Hanja 미 (未) meaning 'not yet' and 비 (備) meaning 'to prepare' or 'to equip'. Literally, it means 'not yet equipped'.

In contemporary Korean society, you will often see this word in news headlines following a public safety incident or a legal loophole discovery. For example, if a fire breaks out in a building and it's discovered that the sprinklers weren't installed according to code, the media will report that the 'safety facilities were 미비했다'. It carries a nuance of objective failure rather than subjective disappointment.

서류 준비가 미비하여 신청이 반려되었습니다. (The application was rejected because the document preparation was inadequate.)

Furthermore, 미비하다 is the standard term used in legal critiques. When a new law is passed but fails to address certain edge cases, legal experts will say the 'legislation is 미비하다'. It implies that the framework is present but the details are missing or insufficient to achieve the intended goal. This makes it a crucial word for B2 level learners who are moving into professional or academic Korean, as it allows for nuanced criticism of organizational and structural flaws.

Common Collocations: 법적 장치가 미비하다 (Legal measures are inadequate), 안전 시설이 미비하다 (Safety facilities are lacking), 준비가 미비하다 (Preparations are incomplete).

그 계획은 아직 여러 면에서 미비한 점이 많다. (That plan still has many inadequate points in several aspects.)

When using this word, it's important to note its descriptive nature. It doesn't just say 'there isn't enough'; it implies 'there isn't enough of what *should* be there'. This distinction is vital for accurate communication in office settings or formal debates. If you say a report is '부족하다', it sounds like you wanted more detail. If you say it is '미비하다', it sounds like the report is missing essential, required data required for approval.

Frequency and Register: This is a high-frequency word in news, law, and business. It is rarely used in casual conversation between friends unless they are jokingly being overly formal about a lack of snacks or party supplies.

관련 법규가 미비하여 처벌이 어렵습니다. (Punishment is difficult because related regulations are inadequate.)

Using 미비하다 correctly requires understanding its role as a descriptive verb (adjective). It typically takes a noun representing a system, preparation, or facility as its subject. The most common sentence structure is [Subject] + 이/가 + 미비하다. Because it is a formal word, it is almost always used in the polite -아/어/여요 form or the formal -(스)ㅂ니다 form.

Grammar Pattern 1: Basic Description: [Noun]이/가 미비하다. This describes a current state of inadequacy. Example: '시설이 미비합니다' (The facilities are inadequate).

In more complex sentences, 미비하다 often appears in its attributive form 미비한 to modify a following noun. This is useful for describing specific 'deficiencies' or 'incomplete parts'. For instance, '미비한 점' (inadequate points) or '미비한 서류' (incomplete documents). This allows the speaker to pinpoint exactly what needs to be fixed without sounding overly aggressive.

이번 보고서에서 미비한 부분을 보완해 주세요. (Please supplement the inadequate parts in this report.)

Another frequent usage is in the passive-sounding phrase 미비함이 드러나다 (inadequacy is revealed). This is common in investigative journalism. When an audit is conducted, the 'inadequacies' are revealed to the public. This construction emphasizes the discovery of the flaw rather than the flaw itself.

Grammar Pattern 2: Cause and Effect: [Noun]이/가 미비하여 [Negative Result]. Example: '준비가 미비하여 행사가 지연되었다' (The event was delayed because preparations were inadequate).

환자를 위한 편의 시설이 매우 미비한 실정입니다. (The reality is that convenience facilities for patients are very inadequate.)

Finally, consider the contrast between 미비하다 and the verb 보완하다 (to supplement/complement). In professional feedback, these two go hand-in-hand. You identify what is 미비 and then request that it be 보완. '미비한 점을 보완하다' is a set phrase in business writing that every learner should memorize to sound natural and professional in a Korean office environment.

아직은 시스템이 미비하지만 곧 개선될 것입니다. (The system is still inadequate, but it will be improved soon.)

In South Korea, 미비하다 is a staple of the evening news and official government briefings. It is the 'go-to' word for describing administrative failures. If you are living in Korea, you will hear this word most often during safety inspections or when public services are being criticized. For example, if a new subway line opens and the elevators aren't working yet, the news anchor will likely say, '장애인을 위한 시설이 여전히 미비합니다' (Facilities for the disabled are still inadequate).

News & Media Context: Journalists use this word to maintain an objective tone while pointing out serious flaws in government policy or corporate safety standards.

You will also encounter this word in the context of legal disputes or insurance claims. If an insurance company refuses to pay out, they might cite that the '증거 자료가 미비하다' (the evidence/documentation is incomplete). In this sense, it acts as a formal justification for a bureaucratic decision. For international students or workers, this word might appear in emails from the immigration office or HR department if your visa application or employment contract is missing a signature or a required document.

제출하신 서류 중 일부가 미비하여 추가 제출을 요청드립니다. (Some of the documents you submitted are incomplete, so we request additional submission.)

In the corporate world, during project post-mortems (evaluating a project after it's finished), managers use 미비하다 to discuss what went wrong without making it personal. Instead of saying 'You didn't do enough,' they might say '준비 과정에서 미비한 점이 있었다' (There were inadequate points in the preparation process). This focuses on the process and the output rather than the individual's effort, which is a common communication strategy in Korean hierarchical work cultures.

Academic Context: In research papers, scholars use this word to describe the 'limitations' of previous studies. '기존 연구는 데이터가 미비하다' (Existing research lacks data).

단속 근거가 미비해서 경찰이 개입하기 어렵습니다. (It is difficult for the police to intervene because the grounds for enforcement are inadequate.)

Finally, in the tech world, when a software or a service is launched in 'beta' or has many bugs, users or reviewers might describe the user interface (UI) or features as 미비하다. It suggests that the product was rushed to market before it was truly ready. This usage reflects a high standard of expectation from the speaker.

The most common mistake learners make with 미비하다 is using it in casual, everyday situations where '부족하다' or '없다' would be more appropriate. For example, if you don't have enough salt in your soup, saying '소금이 미비하다' sounds incredibly strange and overly dramatic, as if the soup were a formal government project that failed its salt-requirements audit. In such cases, always stick to '소금이 부족해요'.

Mistake 1: Misapplying the Register: Using 미비하다 for personal feelings or small physical quantities. Incorrect: '용기가 미비해서 고백 못 했어요' (I couldn't confess because my courage was inadequate). Correct: '용기가 부족해서...'.

Another error is confusing 미비하다 with 미흡하다. While they are very similar, 미흡하다 often carries a stronger sense of 'unsatisfactory' or 'not meeting expectations' in terms of quality or performance. 미비하다 is more about the 'existence' of necessary parts. If a report is missing three pages, it is 미비. If the report is poorly written and doesn't make sense, it is 미흡. Using them interchangeably is common even among natives, but at the B2/C1 level, distinguishing them shows true proficiency.

[Wrong]: 돈이 미비해서 옷을 못 샀어요.
[Right]: 돈이 부족해서 옷을 못 샀어요.

A third mistake is grammatical: trying to use 미비하다 as an active verb (to make something incomplete). It is strictly a descriptive verb. You cannot '미비' something. If you want to say someone didn't prepare well, you use '준비를 소홀히 하다' or '준비를 제대로 하지 않다'. 미비하다 describes the resulting state of the preparation, not the action of failing to prepare.

Mistake 2: Confusing with '부족하다': 부족하다 is for quantity/amount. 미비하다 is for structural completeness/preparedness.

그는 실력이 미비하다 (X) -> 그는 실력이 미흡하다/부족하다 (O). (One's skill is usually described as 미흡 or 부족, not 미비.)

Lastly, learners sometimes forget that 미비 is a Hanja-based word. This means it has a formal 'feel'. Using it with very casual endings like '-어/야' or '-지' can create a clash in register. While not technically grammatically wrong, it sounds like an 'uncanny valley' of language use. Stick to formal or polite endings to match the word's inherent weight.

To truly master 미비하다, you must understand how it sits within a family of words that all mean 'not enough' but carry different shades of meaning. Choosing the right one will make you sound like a sophisticated speaker.

미비하다 vs. 부족하다: 부족하다: General 'lacking'. Can be used for water, time, money, or talent.
미비하다: Specific to 'readiness' or 'requirements'. Used for systems, preparations, or legal frameworks.
미비하다 vs. 미흡하다: 미흡하다: 'Unsatisfactory'. Focuses on the feeling that something didn't meet a subjective or qualitative standard.
미비하다: 'Incomplete'. Focuses on the objective fact that required parts are missing.

Another interesting alternative is 허술하다. This word is more descriptive of the *quality* of the preparation. If something is 허술하다, it means it was done carelessly or is 'flimsy'. While 미비하다 is a neutral, formal observation, 허술하다 is more critical and can feel a bit more informal or descriptive. For example, a '허술한 보안' (flimsy security) sounds like the guards were sleeping, while '미비한 보안' (inadequate security) sounds like the security cameras haven't been installed yet.

그 영화는 구성이 허술하다. (The movie's plot is flimsy/poorly constructed.)

In a positive context, the opposite of 미비하다 is 완비되다 (to be fully equipped). This word also uses the '비 (備)' root. When you see an apartment listing that says '풀옵션 완비' (Full options fully equipped), it means everything you need—fridge, washer, AC—is already there. Another opposite is 철저하다 (to be thorough), which describes a state of preparation that is the exact opposite of being 미비.

Table of Comparison

미비: Missing parts (Objective)
미흡: Not good enough (Subjective/Qualitative)
부족: Short quantity (General)
허술: Careless/Slack (Descriptive)

시설이 완비된 헬스장을 찾고 있습니다. (I am looking for a gym that is fully equipped.)

By learning these distinctions, you can navigate formal Korean environments more effectively. Using 미비하다 correctly signals to native speakers that you understand the nuances of organizational structure and formal critique, which is a hallmark of an advanced learner.

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

The character '未' (mi) is the same one used in '미래' (future - not yet come) and '미성년자' (minor - not yet an adult).

Pronunciation Guide

UK /mi.bi.ɦa.da/

US /mi.bi.ɦa.da/

Even stress on all syllables, typical of Korean.

Rhymes With

준비하다 (to prepare) 정비하다 (to maintain/fix) 완비하다 (to fully equip) 대비하다 (to prepare for/contrast) 수비하다 (to defend) 구비하다 (to have/possess) 설비하다 (to install facilities) 경비하다 (to guard)

Common Errors

Pronouncing 'mi' as 'my' (should be 'mee').
Pronouncing 'bi' as 'buy' (should be 'bee').
Over-emphasizing the 'h' in 'ha' when speaking quickly.
Stressing the first syllable like English 'MI-bi-ha-da'.
Confusing the spelling with '미비하다' vs '미미하다' (slight/insignificant).

Difficulty Rating

Reading 4/5

Common in news and signs, but requires Hanja knowledge to grasp quickly.

Writing 4/5

Useful for formal emails and essays, but must be used in the correct register.

Speaking 3/5

Easy to conjugate, but hard to know when it's 'too formal' for a conversation.

Listening 4/5

Important for understanding official announcements and news.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

부족하다 준비 시설 서류 법

Learn Next

보완하다 완비되다 미흡하다 결여되다 철저하다

Advanced

개선하다 시정하다 구비하다 정비하다

Grammar to Know

Adjective + -(으)ㄴ 점

미비한 점을 보완하세요.

Noun + -(으)로 인해

준비 미비로 인해 지연되었습니다.

Adjective + -아/어/여서 (Reason)

시설이 미비해서 불편해요.

Adjective + -지만 (Contrast)

미비하지만 최선을 다했습니다.

Adjective + -(으)ㄴ 채로

준비가 미비한 채로 시작했습니다.

Examples by Level

준비가 미비해요.

Preparation is incomplete.

Basic [Noun] + 이/가 + 미비해요 structure.

서류가 미비합니다.

The documents are incomplete.

Formal ending -습니다 used in offices.

시설이 미비해요.

The facilities are inadequate.

Describing the state of a place.

아직 미비한 점이 많아요.

There are still many inadequate points.

미비한 modifies the noun '점' (point/aspect).

계획이 미비해요.

The plan is incomplete.

Using the word to describe an abstract plan.

준비가 미비해서 미안해요.

I'm sorry because the preparation is inadequate.

-해서 indicates a reason.

정보가 미비합니다.

The information is inadequate.

Formal tone for official information.

장비가 미비해요.

The equipment is inadequate.

Describing physical tools/equipment.

안전 시설이 미비해서 위험합니다.

It is dangerous because safety facilities are inadequate.

Connecting two clauses with -아서/어서.

제출한 서류가 미비하여 반려되었습니다.

The submitted documents were incomplete and thus rejected.

-하여 is the formal version of -해서.

이곳은 주차 시설이 미비합니다.

Parking facilities are inadequate here.

Formal description of a public location.

아직은 시스템이 미비한 상태입니다.

The system is currently in an incomplete state.

Using '상태' (state) to add detail.

준비가 미비한 점 사과드립니다.

I apologize for the inadequate preparations.

Formal apology structure.

법적 근거가 미비하여 처벌할 수 없어요.

We can't punish because the legal grounds are inadequate.

-ㄹ 수 없다 (cannot) used with the reason.

미비한 부분을 다시 확인해 주세요.

Please check the inadequate parts again.

Imperative -주세요 with the attributive 미비한.

내용이 미비해서 다시 써야 해요.

The content is inadequate, so I have to rewrite it.

-아야/어야 하다 (must/have to).

관련 법규가 미비하여 단속이 어렵습니다.

It is difficult to crack down because related regulations are inadequate.

Using '단속' (crackdown/enforcement) in a formal sentence.

미비한 서류를 보충해서 다시 제출하세요.

Supplement the incomplete documents and submit them again.

Using '보충하다' (to supplement) with 미비하다.

사고 원인은 안전 관리 미비로 밝혀졌습니다.

The cause of the accident was revealed to be inadequate safety management.

Using '미비' as a noun phrase (Management inadequacy).

신축 아파트의 편의 시설이 아직 미비합니다.

Convenience facilities in the new apartment are still inadequate.

Describing infrastructure.

철저히 준비했지만 여전히 미비한 점이 있네요.

We prepared thoroughly, but there are still some inadequate points.

Contrast between '철저히' (thoroughly) and '미비하다'.

제도적 장치가 미비하여 피해자가 늘고 있습니다.

Victims are increasing because institutional measures are inadequate.

Discussing social issues.

미비한 점을 보완하는 것이 급선무입니다.

Supplementing the inadequate points is the first priority.

Using '급선무' (urgent priority).

자료가 미비해서 결론을 내리기 어렵습니다.

It's difficult to reach a conclusion because the data is inadequate.

Formal reasoning in research.

현행법은 디지털 범죄에 대한 대응이 미비한 실정입니다.

The current law is in a state where the response to digital crimes is inadequate.

Using '실정' (actual state/reality) for formal critique.

해당 사업은 타당성 조사가 미비했다는 지적을 받았습니다.

The project was criticized for having an inadequate feasibility study.

Passive structure '-를 받다' (to receive criticism).

준비 과정에서의 미비함이 결국 큰 사고로 이어졌습니다.

The inadequacy in the preparation process eventually led to a major accident.

Nominalizing the adjective: 미비함 (inadequacy).

정부는 미비한 법안을 수정하여 국회에 제출했습니다.

The government modified the inadequate bill and submitted it to the National Assembly.

Describing legislative actions.

인력 보강이 미비하여 업무 과중 현상이 나타나고 있습니다.

Work overload is occurring because manpower reinforcement is inadequate.

Discussing workplace issues with formal terminology.

사전 예고가 미비하여 시민들이 큰 불편을 겪었습니다.

Citizens experienced great inconvenience because the advance notice was inadequate.

Cause-and-effect in public service.

조사 결과, 여러 곳에서 안전 불감증과 시설 미비가 확인되었습니다.

As a result of the investigation, safety insensitivity and inadequate facilities were confirmed in several places.

Using '안전 불감증' (insensitivity to safety).

미비한 점을 즉각 시정하지 않으면 허가가 취소될 수 있습니다.

If you don't immediately correct the inadequate points, your permit may be revoked.

Conditional '-(으)면' with a formal threat.

법체계의 미비점을 악용한 범죄가 기승을 부리고 있습니다.

Crimes exploiting the inadequacies of the legal system are rampant.

Using '악용하다' (to exploit/misuse).

이번 참사는 인재라기보다 시스템의 미비가 낳은 비극입니다.

This disaster is a tragedy caused by system inadequacy rather than human error.

Using '-라기보다' (rather than).

기존 연구는 이론적 배경이 미비하다는 비판을 면하기 어렵습니다.

Existing research is hard to escape the criticism that its theoretical background is inadequate.

Advanced idiom '-를 면하기 어렵다' (hard to avoid).

정부는 사회 안전망의 미비함을 인정하고 대책 마련에 나섰습니다.

The government admitted the inadequacy of the social safety net and began preparing measures.

Using '사회 안전망' (social safety net).

졸속 행정으로 인해 준비가 미비한 채 축제가 강행되었습니다.

The festival was forced through while preparations were still inadequate due to hasty administration.

Using '졸속' (hasty/poorly done) and '강행되다' (to be forced through).

데이터의 신뢰성이 미비하여 학계의 공인을 받지 못했습니다.

The data's reliability was inadequate, so it did not receive official recognition from the academic community.

Discussing academic validation.

미비한 제도 아래에서는 공정한 경쟁이 불가능합니다.

Fair competition is impossible under an inadequate system.

Abstract social critique.

그의 주장은 논리적 근거가 미비하여 설득력이 떨어집니다.

His argument lacks logical grounds, so its persuasiveness is low.

Critiquing an argument's logic.

제도적 미비가 초래한 입법 공백 상태가 장기화되고 있습니다.

The state of legislative vacuum caused by institutional inadequacy is being prolonged.

Using '초래하다' (to cause/bring about) and '입법 공백' (legislative vacuum).

본 보고서는 초기 단계의 조사 미비를 보완하는 데 주력하였습니다.

This report focused on supplementing the lack of investigation in the initial stages.

Using '-에 주력하다' (to focus/concentrate on).

규제 장치의 미비는 시장의 혼란을 야기할 가능성이 농후합니다.

The inadequacy of regulatory mechanisms is highly likely to cause market turmoil.

Using '농후하다' (to be thick/highly likely).

정치권의 합의 미비로 민생 법안들이 표류하고 있습니다.

Due to the lack of consensus in political circles, bills related to people's livelihoods are drifting.

Metaphorical use of '표류하다' (to drift).

기술적 인프라의 미비가 4차 산업혁명의 걸림돌이 되어서는 안 됩니다.

The inadequacy of technical infrastructure must not become a stumbling block for the 4th Industrial Revolution.

Using '걸림돌' (stumbling block).

사후 관리 체계의 미비함이 드러나면서 비난의 화살이 쏟아졌습니다.

As the inadequacy of the follow-up management system was revealed, arrows of criticism poured in.

Idiom '비난의 화살이 쏟아지다' (to be showered with criticism).

글로벌 기준에 비추어 볼 때, 국내의 관련 조약은 상당히 미비한 수준입니다.

When viewed in light of global standards, domestic related treaties are at a quite inadequate level.

Using '-에 비추어 볼 때' (in light of).

미비한 점을 보완하기 위한 범정부 차원의 노력이 절실합니다.

Pan-governmental efforts to supplement the inadequate points are desperately needed.

Using '범정부 차원' (pan-governmental level).

Synonyms

불충분하다 부족하다 미흡하다

Antonyms

충분하다 완벽하다 철저하다

Common Collocations

준비가 미비하다

시설이 미비하다

법규가 미비하다

서류가 미비하다

장치가 미비하다

제도가 미비하다

미비한 점을 보완하다

근거가 미비하다

대책이 미비하다

사전 조사가 미비하다

Common Phrases

미비 사항

— Incomplete items or matters that need correction. Often seen in feedback lists.

미비 사항을 체크리스트에 정리했습니다.

미비점 보완

— Supplementing or fixing the inadequate points. A standard business task.

미비점 보완 후 최종 승인을 받겠습니다.

준비 미비

— Inadequate preparation. Used as a noun phrase to describe a cause.

준비 미비로 인해 공연이 취소되었습니다.

서류 미비

— Incomplete documents. The most common phrase in bureaucratic settings.

서류 미비로 접수가 거부되었습니다.

시설 미비

— Inadequate facilities. Used when criticizing infrastructure.

시설 미비에 대한 민원이 제기되었습니다.

법적 미비

— Legal inadequacy or loophole.

법적 미비를 틈타 범죄가 발생했습니다.

미비하여

— Because it is inadequate... (Formal conjunctive).

준비가 미비하여 죄송합니다.

미비함이 발견되다

— Inadequacy is discovered.

검사 과정에서 여러 미비함이 발견되었습니다.

제도적 미비

— Institutional inadequacy.

제도적 미비를 해결하기 위해 노력 중입니다.

미비한 상태

— An incomplete state/condition.

아직은 시스템이 미비한 상태입니다.

Often Confused With

미비하다 vs 미흡하다

미흡하다 is 'unsatisfactory' (quality), while 미비하다 is 'incomplete' (structural/parts).

미비하다 vs 부족하다

부족하다 is a general lack of quantity; 미비하다 is a lack of formal preparation.

미비하다 vs 미미하다

미미하다 means 'slight' or 'insignificant' (size/effect), not 'incomplete'.

Idioms & Expressions

"미비한 점을 파고들다"

— To exploit or focus on the weak/incomplete points of something.

적군은 우리의 미비한 점을 파고들었다.

Formal

"미비함이 만천하에 드러나다"

— For the inadequacies to be revealed to the whole world.

정부의 미비함이 만천하에 드러났다.

Literary/Journalistic

"미비한 부분을 메우다"

— To 'fill in' the incomplete parts (supplement).

우리는 서로의 미비한 부분을 메워 주어야 한다.

Neutral

"법의 미비점을 악용하다"

— To exploit a legal loophole (inadequacy).

그는 법의 미비점을 악용해 세금을 피했다.

Formal

"미비한 채로 방치하다"

— To leave something in an inadequate state without fixing it.

시설을 미비한 채로 방치하면 안 됩니다.

Formal

"미비함을 통감하다"

— To deeply feel or regret one's own inadequacy.

우리는 이번 실패로 준비의 미비함을 통감했다.

Formal/Reflective

"미비한 구석이 없다"

— To be perfect; to have no inadequate corners/parts.

그녀의 계획은 미비한 구석이 전혀 없었다.

Neutral

"미비한 점이 한두 가지가 아니다"

— There isn't just one or two inadequate points (there are many).

이 보고서는 미비한 점이 한두 가지가 아니다.

Neutral

"미비함을 보충하다"

— To supplement the lack of something.

부족한 인력과 미비함을 보충해야 합니다.

Formal

"미비한 상태로 강행하다"

— To force something through while it is still incomplete.

준비가 미비한 상태로 행사를 강행했다.

Formal/Critical

Easily Confused

미비하다 vs 미흡하다

Both mean 'not enough'.

미흡하다 focuses on the quality not being good enough. 미비하다 focuses on the parts not being there.

실력이 미흡하다 (Skill is unsatisfactory). 서류가 미비하다 (Documents are incomplete).

미비하다 vs 부족하다

Both mean 'lacking'.

부족하다 is for general quantity. 미비하다 is for formal requirements and systems.

물이 부족하다 (Water is lacking). 시설이 미비하다 (Facilities are inadequate).

미비하다 vs 허술하다

Both describe something poorly prepared.

허술하다 implies carelessness or being flimsy. 미비하다 is a neutral formal term for 'incomplete'.

보안이 허술하다 (Security is lax). 보안 시설이 미비하다 (Security facilities are missing).

미비하다 vs 결여되다

Both mean 'lacking'.

결여되다 usually refers to abstract qualities like 'morality' or 'common sense'. 미비하다 refers to tangible systems or preparations.

책임감이 결여되다 (Lacks responsibility). 준비가 미비하다 (Preparation is inadequate).

미비하다 vs 미완성

Both mean 'not finished'.

미완성 is a noun meaning 'unfinished work' (like art). 미비하다 is an adjective describing 'inadequate state'.

미완성 교향곡 (Unfinished symphony). 시설 미비 (Inadequate facilities).

Sentence Patterns

[Noun]이/가 미비해요.

서류가 미비해요.

[Noun]이/가 미비해서 [Result].

준비가 미비해서 행사가 늦어졌어요.

미비한 [Noun]을/를 보완하다.

미비한 점을 보완해 주세요.

[Noun]의 미비함이 드러나다.

시스템의 미비함이 드러났습니다.

[Noun] 미비로 인해 [Result].

시설 미비로 인해 사고가 났습니다.

[Noun]이/가 미비한 실정이다.

법적 장치가 미비한 실정입니다.

[Noun]이/가 미비하다는 지적을 받다.

준비가 미비하다는 지적을 받았습니다.

[Noun]의 미비점을 악용하다.

제도의 미비점을 악용하는 사례가 많습니다.

Word Family

Nouns

미비 (inadequacy/incompleteness)

미비점 (inadequate point/flaw)

미비함 (the state of being inadequate)

Verbs

미비되다 (to become/be in an incomplete state - rare, usually just 미비하다 is used)

Adjectives

미비하다 (incomplete/inadequate)

미완성 (incomplete/unfinished)

미흡 (unsatisfactory)

준비 (preparation)

완비 (full equipment)

부족 (lack)

How to Use It

frequency

High in formal contexts (News, Business, Law). Low in casual conversation.

Common Mistakes

Using 미비하다 for personal feelings. → 부족하다 / 미흡하다
You can't say your love or courage is '미비'. Those are personal, not systemic.
Confusing 미비하다 with 미미하다. → 미비하다 (incomplete) / 미미하다 (slight)
미미하다 means something is very small or has little effect. They sound similar but are different.
Using it in very casual speech. → 안 됐어 / 부족해
Saying '준비가 미비해' to a friend sounds like you're reading a textbook aloud.
Saying '돈이 미비하다'. → 돈이 부족하다
Money is a quantity. Use '부족하다'. '미비하다' is for the 'state' of preparation.
Treating it as an active verb (미비하다 as 'to make incomplete'). → 준비를 소홀히 하다
미비하다 is a description of a state, not an action you perform.

Tips

Formal Documents

Always check for '서류 미비' when applying for visas or jobs in Korea. It is the number one reason for rejection.

Objective Criticism

Use '미비하다' to criticize a system without attacking a person. It sounds more objective and professional.

Pair with 보완하다

Memorize the phrase '미비한 점을 보완하다'. It is a standard way to say 'fix the flaws'.

Business Context

In a meeting, if you want to say a plan isn't ready yet, '준비가 미비합니다' is the perfect polite phrase.

The 'Mi' Root

Remember that '미' (未) means 'not yet'. This helps you remember other words like '미완성' (unfinished).

Attributive Form

Practice using '미비한' to modify nouns, like '미비한 시설' or '미비한 근거'.

News keywords

When you hear '안전' (safety) on the news, listen for '미비' right after it.

Essay Writing

Use '제도적 미비' when writing about social problems in the TOPIK exam to get a higher score.

Softening Criticism

Instead of saying 'You failed,' say '준비가 미비했던 것 같습니다' (It seems the preparation was inadequate).

Visual Aid

Think of a checklist with several empty boxes. Those empty boxes are the '미비한 점'.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of 'Mi' as 'Missing' and 'Bi' as 'Building'. If the building is missing parts, it is 미비 (Mi-bi).

Visual Association

Imagine a skyscraper that is 90% finished but has no windows on the top floors. It's 'mi-bi' (incomplete).

Word Web

준비 시설 법규 서류 미비하다 보완 부족 완비

Challenge

Try to find a news article in Korean about an accident. Look for the word '미비'. You will almost certainly find it describing safety measures.

Word Origin

Derived from Hanja (Sino-Korean characters).

Original meaning: 未 (미) - 'Not yet' + 備 (비) - 'Prepare/Equip' + 하다 (suffix to make an adjective).

Sino-Korean

Cultural Context

Be careful when using this word to describe a person's work directly; it is quite a strong, formal criticism. It's better to say '미비한 점이 있다' (there are some inadequate points) to soften the blow.

While English speakers might say 'The system is broken' or 'It's not enough,' Koreans prefer the formal '미비하다' to sound objective and professional.

Used in almost every major safety audit report in Korean history. Commonly heard in K-Dramas involving legal battles or corporate corruption. A key term in the 'Gwangju Building Collapse' news coverage.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Applying for a Visa/Document

서류가 미비합니다.
미비한 서류가 무엇인가요?
미비한 점을 보완하겠습니다.
서류 미비로 반려되었습니다.

Safety Inspection

안전 시설이 미비하다.
소방 장비가 미비하다.
미비한 시설을 수리하다.
시설 미비로 벌금을 내다.

Business Project Review

준비 과정이 미비했다.
자료가 미비한 것 같다.
미비한 부분을 보완하자.
조사가 미비하여 실패했다.

Legal/News Commentary

법적 장치가 미비하다.
제도가 미비한 실정이다.
미비점을 개선해야 한다.
미비한 법안을 수정하다.

Academic Critique

논리적 근거가 미비하다.
데이터가 미비한 한계가 있다.
설명이 미비하여 이해가 어렵다.
연구의 미비점을 지적하다.

Conversation Starters

"새로 이사한 아파트의 편의 시설이 아직 미비한 것 같아요."

"이번 프로젝트에서 우리가 미비했던 점은 무엇일까요?"

"그 영화는 스토리가 좀 미비해서 실망했어요."

"서류가 미비해서 비자 발급이 늦어지면 어떡하죠?"

"한국의 자전거 도로는 아직 시설이 미비한 곳이 많아요."

Journal Prompts

내가 최근에 했던 일 중에서 준비가 미비해서 후회했던 경험을 써 보세요.

우리 사회에서 법적 장치가 미비해서 생기는 문제는 무엇이 있을까요?

완벽한 준비와 미비한 준비의 차이는 무엇이라고 생각하나요?

직장에서 상사에게 미비한 점을 지적받았을 때 어떻게 대처해야 할까요?

자신의 한국어 실력 중에서 아직 미비하다고 느끼는 부분은 어디인가요?

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

No, you should use '부족하다'. '미비하다' is for systems, preparations, or documents. Saying '돈이 미비하다' sounds like your financial system is incomplete, not that you are short on cash.

Rarely in casual speech. You'll hear it in offices, at the bank, or on the news. If you use it with friends, it sounds like you're being funny by acting like a bureaucrat.

미비하다 is about 'completeness' (Do we have all the parts?). 미흡하다 is about 'satisfaction' (Is the quality good enough?). If a car is missing a wheel, it's 미비. If the car drives slowly, it's 미흡.

'준비가 미비했습니다' or '준비 과정에서의 미비한 점이 발견되었습니다' are both excellent formal options.

It means your application is incomplete. You are likely missing a signature, a required form, or a supporting document. You should contact the office to see what is missing.

It is an adjective (descriptive verb). You conjugate it like '좋다' or '예쁘다'. You cannot '미비' an object; you can only say an object 'is 미비'.

Only if you are a health inspector talking about the 'facilities' in a kitchen. If you just mean the food tastes bad or is missing an ingredient, use '맛이 없어요' or '재료가 부족해요'.

It is 未 (미 - not yet) and 備 (비 - prepare). It literally means 'not yet prepared'.

Yes, it can be used as a noun in phrases like '미비 사항' (incomplete matters) or '준비 미비' (preparation inadequacy).

The most common formal opposite is '완비되다' (to be fully equipped/ready). '충분하다' (to be sufficient) is also a general opposite.