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정비하다

B2 verb #3,500 most common 9 min read

정비하다

jeongbihada Top 3,500

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips 정비하다 in 30 Seconds

Explanation 정비하다 in your Level:

At the A1 level, the word '정비하다' (jeong-bi-ha-da) might be a bit difficult because it is usually used in professional or technical situations. However, you can think of it as a very special way to say 'to fix' or 'to get ready.' Imagine you have a bicycle. If the bicycle is broken, you 'fix' it. But if you are checking the tires, cleaning the chain, and making sure everything is perfect before you go for a ride, that is '정비하다.' In simple Korean, people often use '고치다' (go-chi-da) for fixing things. But if you see a sign that says '정비소' (jeong-bi-so), it means a place where people fix cars. So, at this level, just remember: '정비' is related to fixing and taking care of big machines like cars. You don't need to use it in daily life yet, but knowing that '정비소' is a car repair shop is very helpful! It is a combination of 'ordering' and 'preparing.' Even if you are just a beginner, understanding that Korean has different words for 'fixing' based on how professional the work is will help you later. Just think of it as 'pro-fixing.'

At the A2 level, you can start to see '정비하다' in more contexts, especially regarding vehicles and public spaces. You might encounter it in news snippets or signs. For example, '도로 정비' (do-ro jeong-bi) means road maintenance. If you see a road blocked with orange cones, they might be '정비'ing the road. This means they are making it flat, fixing holes, and painting new lines. It's about making things orderly and safe. Another common place is the '차량 정비' (cha-ryang jeong-bi) or vehicle maintenance. You might say, '차를 정비하러 가요' (I am going to get my car serviced). Notice that it sounds more formal than just saying you are fixing a broken part. It implies a routine checkup. You can also use it for sports, like '전열을 정비하다,' which means a team is getting back into their positions. At this stage, try to recognize the word when you hear it in the context of cars, roads, or teams. It usually implies that someone is working hard to make a system or a machine work perfectly again. It's a step up from '정리하다' (to tidy up) because it involves technical work or important systems.

For B1 learners, '정비하다' becomes a useful word for discussing hobbies, work, and social issues. You should understand that it doesn't just apply to physical machines but also to 'systems.' For instance, if you are a manager, you might talk about '업무 프로세스 정비' (streamlining work processes). This means looking at how things are done and making them more efficient. In terms of grammar, you will see it used with the object marker: '시스템을 정비하다' (to organize the system). It is also common in the passive form '정비되다.' For example, '공원이 잘 정비되어 있어요' means the park is well-maintained and organized. This is a great way to describe a city that is clean and has good facilities. You should also distinguish '정비하다' from '수리하다.' Remember, '수리하다' is for when something is broken (like a watch or a phone), while '정비하다' is for maintaining or overhauling something (like a car or a law). Using '정비하다' in your speaking or writing will make you sound more professional and precise, especially when talking about your car, your equipment, or how you organize your work tasks.

At the B2 level, '정비하다' is a key vocabulary item for formal writing and professional discussions. You are expected to use it in the context of 'legal and systemic reform' (법령 및 제도 정비). This is a common topic in the TOPIK II exam and in Korean news. When the government '정비's a law, they are not just fixing one sentence; they are overhauling the entire framework to ensure it is consistent and effective. You should also be familiar with collocations like '전열을 정비하다' (to regroup/reorganize ranks), which can be used literally in military contexts or metaphorically in sports and business. For example, after a company experiences a market loss, they might '정비' their strategy. You should also understand the nuance of '환경 정비' (improving the environment), which refers to urban beautification and functional improvements. At this level, you should be able to choose between '정비하다,' '개편하다' (to restructure), and '보수하다' (to renovate) based on the specific context. '정비하다' is your go-to word for comprehensive maintenance, systemic organization, and ensuring future readiness. It reflects a proactive attitude toward keeping things in peak condition.

As a C1 learner, you should master the abstract and metaphorical applications of '정비하다.' It is frequently used in high-level academic or policy-oriented texts to describe the 'consolidation' and 'harmonization' of complex systems. For instance, in a thesis about urban sociology, you might discuss '도시 기반 시설의 정비' (the overhaul of urban infrastructure). Here, it implies a strategic, long-term improvement project. You should also be able to use it to describe mental or psychological states in a sophisticated way, such as '흐트러진 마음을 정비하다' (to pull oneself together / to reorganize one's scattered thoughts). In professional settings, '정비' is often paired with '강화' (strengthening) to describe a process of both fixing and improving a system. You should also be aware of its historical usage in texts describing how ancient kingdoms established their administrative systems (중앙 집권 체제를 정비하다). At this level, your usage should reflect an understanding that '정비하다' is about creating 'order' (整) and 'preparedness' (備) at a structural level. It is a word that conveys competence, foresight, and a systematic approach to problem-solving. You should be able to use it fluently in debates about policy, technology, and organizational management.

At the C2 level, '정비하다' is a word you use with total precision, often in the context of nuanced policy debates, complex technical specifications, or literary descriptions. You understand that '정비' is not just a task but a 'philosophy of maintenance.' In a legal context, you might analyze the '법적 근거의 정비' (the consolidation of legal foundations), discussing how disparate laws are integrated into a cohesive whole. You can use it to describe the intricate process of '내실을 정비하다' (to strengthen/organize the internal substance or core) of an organization or a person's character. In literature, it might be used to describe a character '정비'ing their life after a period of ruin, implying a deep, structural change. You are also sensitive to the word's rhythmic and stylistic role in formal speeches, where it provides a sense of stability and progress. You can contrast '정비하다' with even more specific terms like '정돈하다' (to put in order/neatly arrange) or '정제하다' (to refine/purify), choosing '정비하다' when the focus is on functional readiness and systemic integrity. Your mastery allows you to use this word to convey a sense of 'institutionalization'—turning a chaotic or informal situation into a professional, sustainable, and well-equipped system.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

정비하다 in 30 Seconds

정비하다 means to maintain, organize, or overhaul systems and equipment professionally.
It is commonly used for car maintenance (정비소) and legal/systemic reforms (법령 정비).
Unlike 'fix' (고치다), it implies a systematic approach to ensuring readiness and efficiency.
It can also be used metaphorically for reorganizing one's mind or a team's strategy.

The Korean verb 정비하다 (jeong-bi-ha-da) is a multifaceted term that English speakers often find overlapping with words like 'maintain,' 'repair,' 'overhaul,' 'reorganize,' or 'streamline.' At its core, it combines the Hanja characters 整 (정), meaning 'to put in order' or 'to tidy,' and 備 (비), meaning 'to prepare' or 'to equip.' Thus, the word implies more than just fixing something that is broken; it suggests a proactive process of bringing a system, piece of machinery, or a set of rules into a state of optimal readiness and efficiency. Whether you are talking about a mechanic fine-tuning a high-performance engine or a government body updating outdated legislation, you are engaging in the act of 정비하다.

Mechanical Maintenance: In the context of machines and vehicles, it refers to the technical inspection and repair work required to ensure safety and performance. This is why a car repair shop is often called a '정비소'.

장거리 운전을 하기 전에 반드시 차량을 정비해야 합니다. (You must maintain/inspect your vehicle before a long-distance drive.)

Systemic Reorganization: When applied to laws, regulations, or organizational structures, it means to clean up redundancies, fill in gaps, and modernize the framework so it operates smoothly in the current environment.

정부는 복잡한 세금 제도를 정비하기로 결정했습니다. (The government decided to overhaul the complex tax system.)

Furthermore, the term is frequently used in urban planning. 'Environment maintenance' or 환경 정비 refers to cleaning up streets, fixing public facilities, and improving the overall aesthetic and functional quality of a neighborhood. It is also common in sports or military contexts to describe 'reorganizing the ranks' or 'regrouping' (전열을 정비하다). This versatility makes it an essential B2-level word for anyone looking to discuss professional, technical, or administrative topics in Korean. Unlike the simpler '고치다' (to fix), which sounds more casual and focus on the damage, '정비하다' sounds more professional and comprehensive, implying a systematic approach to improvement.

경기가 잠시 중단된 사이, 선수들은 전열을 정비했다. (While the game was briefly paused, the players reorganized their formation/ranks.)

Professional Tone: Using this word in a workplace or formal setting demonstrates a high level of vocabulary, as it suggests you understand the structural or technical nuances of the task at hand rather than just seeing it as 'broken'.

우리 회사는 내년 사업 계획을 앞두고 조직을 정비하고 있습니다. (Our company is restructuring the organization ahead of next year's business plan.)

도로 정비 공사로 인해 교통이 혼잡합니다. (Traffic is congested due to road maintenance work.)

Using 정비하다 correctly requires understanding its object-verb relationship. Since it is a transitive verb, it almost always takes the object marker ~을/를. The objects are usually things that require order, technical care, or systemic structure. Let's break down the grammatical patterns and common contexts where this word shines.

Pattern 1: [Noun] + 을/를 정비하다 (Physical Objects): This is used for cars, airplanes, ships, or industrial machinery. It implies a thorough check-up and necessary repairs to keep the item in good working condition.

비행기 엔진을 정비하는 데는 수시간이 걸립니다. (It takes several hours to overhaul/maintain an airplane engine.)

Pattern 2: [Noun] + 을/를 정비하다 (Abstract Systems): This is used for laws (법), systems (제도), or structures (체계). It means to reorganize or reform them to be more effective.

기업들은 새로운 보안 체계를 정비해야 합니다. (Companies must reorganize/streamline their new security systems.)

Another common usage is for 'mental' or 'strategic' preparation. You might hear athletes talk about 마음을 정비하다 (to compose one's mind) or coaches talk about 팀을 정비하다 (to reorganize the team) after a loss. This implies a pause to fix what went wrong and prepare for the next challenge. The word carries a sense of 'readiness'. If a road is '정비된 도로', it means it's not just a path, but a well-paved, organized road with proper signage and safety features.

패배 후 선수들은 다시 마음을 정비하고 훈련에 매진했다. (After the defeat, the players composed their minds again and focused on training.)

Common Collocations: 1. 차량 정비 (Vehicle maintenance)
2. 법령 정비 (Legislative reform)
3. 환경 정비 (Environmental cleanup/improvement)
4. 전열 정비 (Regrouping ranks)

마을 주민들이 힘을 합쳐 공원 환경을 정비했습니다. (The villagers worked together to improve/tidy up the park environment.)

그는 자전거를 정비한 후 여행을 떠났다. (He set off on his trip after maintaining/tuning up his bicycle.)

You will encounter 정비하다 in several distinct environments in Korea. Understanding these settings will help you grasp the 'vibe' of the word, which is professional, structured, and proactive.

1. At the Auto Shop (정비소): This is the most common physical location. Mechanics are called '정비사'. If you go for an oil change or a brake check, the staff might say, '차량 정비가 필요합니다' (Vehicle maintenance is required). It implies a technical, professional service rather than a simple DIY fix.

정기적으로 자동차를 정비하는 것이 사고를 예방하는 길입니다. (Regularly maintaining your car is the way to prevent accidents.)

2. In Government News and Politics: When a new administration comes in, they often talk about '규제 정비' (reforming regulations) or '법적 근거 정비' (organizing the legal basis). It sounds authoritative and constructive, suggesting that the government is cleaning up the messy parts of the law.

정부는 부동산 관련 법안을 대대적으로 정비할 계획입니다. (The government plans to extensively overhaul real estate-related bills.)

You'll also hear it in the corporate world. During an 'organizational restructuring' (조직 개편), managers might use 정비하다 to describe the process of redefining roles and responsibilities to improve productivity. In sports, after a timeout or during halftime, a commentator might say, '팀의 수비를 다시 정비해야 합니다' (The team needs to reorganize their defense). It’s about resetting and fixing the strategy. Lastly, in historical dramas (사극), a king might talk about 국가를 정비하다 (stabilizing/organizing the nation) after a war or period of chaos.

전쟁이 끝난 후 왕은 무너진 행정 체계를 정비하는 데 힘썼다. (After the war, the king focused on reorganizing the collapsed administrative system.)

3. In Public Safety Announcements: Before the monsoon season (장마), you'll hear calls for '시설물 정비' (maintenance of facilities) to prevent flood damage. It implies checking drains, roofs, and walls.

장마철을 앞두고 하수도 시설을 정비해야 합니다. (We must maintain the sewer facilities ahead of the monsoon season.)

그는 매일 아침 자신의 일정을 정비하며 하루를 시작한다. (He starts his day by organizing/reviewing his schedule every morning.)

While 정비하다 is a powerful word, learners often confuse it with other 'repair' or 'organize' words. Here are the most common pitfalls to avoid.

Mistake 1: Confusing with '수리하다' (Repair): '수리하다' (su-ri-ha-da) is used when something is actually broken and needs to be fixed. '정비하다' is broader; it includes maintenance and reorganization even if nothing is currently broken. You '수리' a broken phone, but you '정비' a car to keep it from breaking.

❌ 고장 난 스마트폰을 정비했다. (Sounds unnatural)
✅ 고장 난 스마트폰을 수리했다. (Correct: Fixed the broken phone.)

Mistake 2: Confusing with '정리하다' (Organize/Tidy): '정리하다' (jeong-ri-ha-da) is for tidying up a room, organizing files, or cleaning a desk. '정비하다' is for systems, equipment, or laws. You don't '정비' your bedroom unless you are treating it like a technical facility or a system.

❌ 내 방을 정비했다. (Sounds like you installed specialized equipment or a new system)
✅ 내 방을 정리했다. (Correct: Tidied up my room.)

Another mistake is using 정비하다 for simple household items like a broken chair or a torn book. For these, 고치다 (to fix) or 수선하다 (to mend/repair clothes/shoes) is much better. 정비하다 carries a weight of 'professionalism' or 'complexity'. If you use it for a simple chair, it sounds like you are a professional furniture engineer performing a technical overhaul. Also, be careful with the object. You don't '정비' a person, but you can '정비' a person's *environment* or their *mind* (in a strategic sense).

❌ 찢어진 책을 정비했다. (Incorrect)
✅ 찢어진 책을 수선했다/테이프로 붙였다. (Correct: Mended the torn book.)

Mistake 3: Overusing in Casual Speech: While not grammatically wrong, using '정비하다' when talking to friends about fixing a bike might sound a bit too formal. '고치다' is the go-to word for daily life. Save '정비하다' for when you want to sound precise or when discussing more complex systems.

❌ 친구야, 내가 네 자전거 정비해 줄게. (A bit stiff)
✅ 친구야, 내가 네 자전거 봐 줄게/고쳐 줄게. (More natural: Let me take a look at/fix your bike.)

우리는 주말 동안 캠핑 장비를 정비했다. (We maintained/organized our camping gear over the weekend. - Here, it's correct because gear requires systematic preparation.)

Korean has many words for 'fixing' or 'organizing.' Understanding the nuances between 정비하다 and its synonyms will elevate your Korean to a near-native level. Let's compare them through a structured analysis.

정비하다 vs. 수리하다 (Repair): 수리하다 is strictly about fixing something broken. 정비하다 is about maintenance and systemic organization. You '수리' a flat tire, but you '정비' the whole car to prevent a flat tire.

정비하다 vs. 개편하다 (Reorganize/Reform): 개편하다 (gae-pyeon-ha-da) is used for changing the structure of a TV program schedule, a company department, or a curriculum. While '정비하다' focuses on making a system work *properly*, '개편하다' focuses on the *change* in structure itself.

방송국은 가을을 맞아 프로그램 편성을 개편했다. (The station reorganized its program lineup for autumn.)

정비하다 vs. 보수하다 (Repair/Renovate): 보수하다 (bo-su-ha-da) is specifically used for buildings, bridges, or roads. It means to repair and supplement old parts. '정비하다' can also be used for roads, but '보수' specifically highlights the act of patching up or strengthening old structures.

오래된 건물을 안전하게 보수했다. (The old building was safely renovated/repaired.)

Another interesting alternative is 다듬다 (to trim/refine). While '정비하다' is technical and formal, '다듬다' is more artistic or manual, like trimming vegetables or refining a sentence. If you are 'fixing up' a draft of a paper, you '다듬다' the sentences. If you are 'fixing up' the entire legal system behind the paper, you '정비하다'. Finally, 조율하다 (to tune/coordinate) is used for musical instruments or coordinating opinions between people. '정비하다' is more about the internal mechanics or structure than external coordination.

정부는 각 부처의 의견을 조율하여 법안을 정비했다. (The government coordinated the opinions of each department and reorganized the bill.)

Which one to choose?: - Car/Engine: 정비하다
- Broken Toy: 고치다/수리하다
- Organization Structure: 개편하다/정비하다
- Old Bridge: 보수하다
- Messy Room: 정리하다

그는 여행을 앞두고 자전거를 꼼꼼히 정비했다. (He meticulously maintained his bicycle before the trip.)

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

The character 整 (정) also appears in '정리' (organization) and '정돈' (tidying), while 備 (비) appears in '준비' (preparation) and '장비' (equipment). Knowing these Hanja roots helps you unlock dozens of related Korean words!

Pronunciation Guide

UK /t͡ɕʌ̹ŋ.bi.ɦa̠.da̠/

US /t͡ʃʌŋ.bi.hɑ.dɑ/

Stress is typically even across the syllables in Korean, but a slight emphasis may be placed on the first syllable '정' to distinguish it clearly.

Rhymes With

준비하다 (jun-bi-ha-da - to prepare) 수비하다 (su-bi-ha-da - to defend) 소비하다 (so-bi-ha-da - to consume) 대비하다 (dae-bi-ha-da - to prepare/contrast) 구비하다 (gu-bi-ha-da - to be equipped with) 장비하다 (jang-bi-ha-da - to equip) 설비하다 (seol-bi-ha-da - to install facilities) 경비하다 (gyeong-bi-ha-da - to guard)

Common Errors

Pronouncing 'eo' (ㅓ) as 'o' (ㅗ). Ensure it's an open 'uh' sound.
Making the 'ng' (ㅇ) sound too strong at the end of the first syllable.
Pronouncing '비' as '피' (pi) or '뷔' (bwi).
Ignoring the 'h' sound in '하다'.
Confusing the pitch accent if the learner is from a tonal language background.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 4/5

Common in news and technical manuals, but requires understanding of Hanja-based academic terms.

Writing 5/5

Requires knowledge of specific collocations like '법령 정비' or '전열 정비' to use naturally.

Speaking 3/5

Easy to use for 'car maintenance', but harder to use metaphorically in casual speech.

Listening 4/5

Frequently heard in news broadcasts and public announcements.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

고치다 (to fix) 준비 (preparation) 정리 (organization) 수리 (repair) 기계 (machine)

Learn Next

개편하다 (to restructure) 보수하다 (to renovate) 혁신하다 (to innovate) 체계적 (systematic) 효율성 (efficiency)

Advanced

구비하다 (to be equipped with) 설비 (facilities) 정비례 (direct proportion - math term) 정비사 (mechanic)

Grammar to Know

~기 위해 (In order to)

차를 정비하기 위해 정비소에 갔다.

~어/아 두다 (To do something for future use)

장비를 미리 정비해 두었다.

~는 중이다 (In the middle of)

지금 도로를 정비하는 중입니다.

~어야 하다 (Must/Should)

정기적으로 시스템을 정비해야 합니다.

~음으로써 (By doing)

제도를 정비함으로써 문제를 해결했다.

Examples by Level

아버지는 차를 정비해요.

My father maintains the car.

Simple Subject-Object-Verb structure.

정비소에 가요.

I am going to the repair shop.

'정비소' is a noun meaning maintenance shop.

자전거를 정비하세요.

Please maintain your bicycle.

Polite imperative form (~으세요).

그는 차를 정비하고 있어요.

He is maintaining the car.

Present progressive form (~고 있다).

정비가 필요해요.

Maintenance is needed.

'정비' is used as a noun here.

이 차는 정비가 잘 됐어요.

This car is well-maintained.

Past tense of '되다' (to be done).

정비사는 친절해요.

The mechanic is kind.

'정비사' means maintenance worker/mechanic.

매일 정비해요.

I maintain it every day.

Adverb '매일' modifying the verb.

여행 전에 차를 정비해야 해요.

You must maintain the car before the trip.

Obligation form (~해야 하다).

도로를 정비하고 있습니다.

They are maintaining the road.

Focus on public infrastructure.

기계가 고장 나기 전에 정비하세요.

Maintain the machine before it breaks.

Conditional clause (~기 전에).

그는 정비 기술을 배웠어요.

He learned maintenance skills.

Noun '기술' (skill) as a direct object.

마을 환경을 정비합시다.

Let's improve the village environment.

Suggestive form (~읍시다).

정비소에서 타이어를 점검했어요.

I checked the tires at the repair shop.

Locative particle '에서'.

이곳은 정비가 덜 되었어요.

This place is less maintained/organized.

Adverb '덜' meaning 'less'.

정비 비용이 많이 들어요.

Maintenance costs a lot.

Expression '비용이 들다' (to cost).

회사는 업무 체계를 정비하기로 했습니다.

The company decided to reorganize its work system.

Decision form (~하기로 하다).

안전을 위해 장비를 정비하는 것이 중요합니다.

It is important to maintain equipment for safety.

Nominalized clause (~하는 것) as a subject.

그들은 경기 후에 전열을 정비했습니다.

They reorganized their ranks after the match.

Metaphorical use for teams.

정부는 새로운 법령을 정비하고 있습니다.

The government is organizing/reforming new laws.

Formal context: legislative reform.

공원이 잘 정비되어 있어서 산책하기 좋아요.

The park is well-maintained, so it's good for a walk.

Passive state (~어/아 있다).

컴퓨터 시스템을 정비할 시간이 필요해요.

I need time to overhaul the computer system.

Future participle (~을) modifying '시간'.

그는 자신의 생활 습관을 정비하기 시작했다.

He started to reorganize his lifestyle habits.

Metaphorical use for personal life.

정기적인 정비는 기계의 수명을 늘려줍니다.

Regular maintenance extends the machine's lifespan.

Causative nuance (~어/아 주다).

정부는 복잡한 규제를 정비하여 기업을 돕기로 했다.

The government decided to help companies by streamlining complex regulations.

Conjunctive ending (~하여) showing method.

이번 프로젝트를 통해 데이터베이스를 정비할 계획입니다.

We plan to overhaul the database through this project.

Formal plan expression (~할 계획이다).

사고 이후 철도 안전 시스템을 전면 정비했습니다.

The railway safety system was completely overhauled after the accident.

Adverb '전면' (entirely/completely).

그는 흐트러진 마음을 정비하고 다시 도전에 나섰다.

He composed his scattered mind and set out for the challenge again.

Abstract use: mental preparation.

도시 정비 사업으로 인해 낙후된 지역이 변모했다.

The underdeveloped area was transformed due to the urban renewal project.

Noun phrase '도시 정비 사업' (Urban renewal/maintenance project).

감독은 전술을 정비하여 후반전에 임했다.

The coach reorganized the tactics and entered the second half.

Strategic context in sports.

법적인 근거가 아직 정비되지 않아 시행이 어렵습니다.

Implementation is difficult because the legal basis has not yet been organized.

Negative passive form (~되지 않다).

노후된 시설을 정비하는 데 예산이 투입되었다.

Budget was invested in maintaining/repairing aged facilities.

Noun phrase (~하는 데) meaning 'in the process of'.

국가 행정 체계의 정비는 근대화의 필수적인 과정이었다.

The reorganization of the national administrative system was an essential process of modernization.

Academic/Historical context.

기업은 급변하는 시장 환경에 맞춰 조직을 정비해야 한다.

Companies must reorganize their organizations to match the rapidly changing market environment.

Business strategy context.

그 학자는 흩어져 있던 이론들을 하나로 정비하였다.

The scholar consolidated the scattered theories into one.

Intellectual/Theoretical context.

새로운 교육 과정의 정비가 시급한 실정입니다.

The overhaul of the new curriculum is an urgent situation.

Formal social issue discussion.

재난 관리 시스템을 정비함으로써 피해를 최소화할 수 있다.

Damage can be minimized by organizing the disaster management system.

Instrumental particle (~함으로써) meaning 'by doing'.

그는 자신의 철학적 기반을 정비하는 데 평생을 바쳤다.

He dedicated his life to organizing his philosophical foundations.

Deeply abstract/Personal context.

기존의 관행을 정비하여 투명한 경영을 실현했다.

Transparent management was realized by reforming existing practices.

Corporate ethics context.

도시의 미관을 정비하기 위해 간판 정비 사업이 실시되었다.

A signage maintenance project was carried out to improve the city's appearance.

Specific urban planning term '간판 정비'.

입법부는 시대의 요구에 부응하여 낡은 법체계를 정비할 책무가 있다.

The legislature has a duty to overhaul the outdated legal system in response to the demands of the times.

High-level political discourse.

그 작가는 원고의 논리적 구조를 치밀하게 정비하여 출간했다.

The author meticulously organized the logical structure of the manuscript and published it.

Literary/Professional editing context.

내실을 정비하지 않은 외형적 성장은 사상누각에 불과하다.

External growth without organizing internal substance is nothing more than a house of cards.

Idiomatic expression '사상누각' (house of cards).

국제 사회는 기후 위기에 대응하기 위해 국제법을 정비해야 한다.

The international community must overhaul international law to respond to the climate crisis.

Global policy context.

그는 패배의 원인을 분석하고 전열을 가다듬어 다시 정비했다.

He analyzed the cause of defeat and reorganized his ranks after pulling himself together.

Combining '가다듬다' and '정비하다'.

정보 통신 기술의 발달에 따라 관련 제도의 정비가 뒤따라야 한다.

Reorganization of related systems must follow the development of information and communication technology.

Technological/Societal evolution context.

그는 자신의 내면을 정비하며 고독한 시간을 견뎌냈다.

He endured lonely times while organizing his inner self.

Poetic/Psychological context.

공급망의 정비는 글로벌 경제의 안정성을 확보하는 데 필수적이다.

The overhaul of supply chains is essential for securing the stability of the global economy.

Macroeconomic context.

Synonyms

정돈하다 보수하다 개편하다 다듬다

Antonyms

어지럽히다 파괴하다

Common Collocations

차량 정비

법령 정비

환경 정비

전열 정비

시스템 정비

제도 정비

시설 정비

조직 정비

마음 정비

도로 정비

Common Phrases

정비가 잘 되다

— To be well-maintained or well-organized. It describes a state of readiness.

이 공원은 정비가 아주 잘 되어 있네요.

정비를 마치다

— To finish maintenance or reorganization work. Usually implies a successful completion.

모든 장비의 정비를 마쳤습니다.

정비에 들어가다

— To enter a phase of maintenance or reorganization. Often used for systems or vehicles.

열차가 정기 정비에 들어갔다.

전열을 정비하다

— To regroup or reorganize one's ranks. Used in military, sports, or business contexts.

우리 팀은 전열을 정비할 시간이 필요하다.

법적 근거를 정비하다

— To organize the legal basis for something. Common in government policy discussions.

사업 추진을 위해 법적 근거를 정비했다.

환경을 정비하다

— To clean up or improve the surroundings. Often used for neighborhoods or public spaces.

주말에 정원 환경을 정비했다.

체계를 정비하다

— To organize a system or framework. Focuses on the structural aspect.

새로운 보안 체계를 정비했다.

내실을 정비하다

— To strengthen the internal substance or core of something. Focuses on quality over appearance.

회사는 외형 성장보다 내실을 정비하기로 했다.

기술적 정비

— Technical maintenance. Refers to the engineering or mechanical aspect of fixing things.

기계의 기술적 정비가 완료되었다.

정비 불량

— Poor maintenance. Often cited as a cause for accidents.

사고의 원인은 차량 정비 불량이었다.

Often Confused With

정비하다 vs 수리하다

수리하다 is for fixing broken things. 정비하다 is for maintenance and organization.

정비하다 vs 정리하다

정리하다 is for tidying up. 정비하다 is for technical or systemic overhaul.

정비하다 vs 준비하다

준비하다 is general preparation. 정비하다 is preparing by organizing or fixing a system/machine.

Idioms & Expressions

"전열을 정비하다"

— Literally 'to organize the battle line,' but idiomatically used to mean 'regrouping' or 'getting one's act together' after a setback.

실패를 딛고 전열을 정비하여 다시 도전했다.

Formal/Literary

"내실을 정비하다"

— To consolidate the internal strength or substance of an organization rather than focusing on external expansion.

지금은 확장이 아니라 내실을 정비할 때다.

Business/Formal

"기틀을 정비하다"

— To organize the foundation or groundwork for a future project or a nation.

새로운 국가의 기틀을 정비하는 것은 쉬운 일이 아니다.

Academic/Historical

"진용을 정비하다"

— To reorganize the lineup of people (e.g., a sports team, a political cabinet, or a corporate board).

새로운 대표는 경영진의 진용을 정비했다.

Formal

"뼈대를 정비하다"

— To reorganize the 'skeleton' or main structure of a plan, book, or system.

보고서의 전체적인 뼈대를 정비했다.

Neutral/Formal

"마음을 정비하다"

— To pull oneself together mentally; to calm one's thoughts and prepare for a task.

큰일을 앞두고 마음을 정비했다.

Literary

"체제를 정비하다"

— To organize the system or regime. Often used in political or historical contexts.

왕은 중앙 집권 체제를 정비했다.

Academic/Formal

"틀을 정비하다"

— To reorganize the frame or mold of something. Similar to '뼈대를 정비하다'.

교육의 기본 틀을 정비해야 한다.

Formal

"바탕을 정비하다"

— To organize the background or basis of something.

연구의 이론적 바탕을 정비했다.

Academic

"라인업을 정비하다"

— To reorganize a lineup, often used in sports or product marketing.

회사는 신제품 라인업을 정비했다.

Neutral/Business

Easily Confused

정비하다 vs 개편하다

Both involve reorganizing systems.

개편 focus on changing the structure/lineup. 정비 focus on making the system work properly and efficiently.

팀 구성을 개편했다 (Changed members). 팀 운영 방식을 정비했다 (Fixed how they work).

정비하다 vs 보수하다

Both involve repair.

보수 is specifically for physical structures like buildings or bridges. 정비 is broader (machines, laws, systems).

성벽을 보수했다. 엔진을 정비했다.

정비하다 vs 조율하다

Both involve 'tuning'.

조율 is for musical instruments or coordinating opinions. 정비 is for technical maintenance or systemic order.

피아노를 조율했다. 기계를 정비했다.

정비하다 vs 수선하다

Both involve fixing.

수선 is for soft goods like clothes or shoes. 정비 is for hard machines or abstract systems.

옷을 수선했다. 차를 정비했다.

정비하다 vs 다듬다

Both involve refinement.

다듬다 is a manual or stylistic refining (vegetables, hair, sentences). 정비 is a structural or technical overhaul.

문장을 다듬다. 법령을 정비하다.

Sentence Patterns

N을/를 정비하다

차를 정비해요.

N을/를 정비하기 위해 V

안전을 위해 기계를 정비해야 해요.

N이/가 잘 정비되어 있다

공원이 잘 정비되어 있어요.

N을/를 전면 정비하다

시스템을 전면 정비했습니다.

N을/를 정비할 계획이다

제도를 정비할 계획입니다.

N의 정비가 시급하다

관련 법령의 정비가 시급합니다.

N을/를 정비함으로써 V

체계를 정비함으로써 효율을 높였다.

N을/를 치밀하게 정비하다

논리적 구조를 치밀하게 정비했다.

Word Family

Nouns

정비 (jeong-bi) Maintenance, organization, overhaul.

정비소 (jeong-bi-so) Maintenance shop, garage, repair center.

정비사 (jeong-bi-sa) Mechanic, maintenance technician.

정비공 (jeong-bi-gong) Mechanic (more manual/labor-focused term).

Verbs

정비되다 (jeong-bi-doe-da) To be maintained, to be organized (passive).

Adjectives

정비된 (jeong-bi-doen) Maintained, organized (past participle adjective).

정리 (organization/tidying)

준비 (preparation)

수리 (repair)

보수 (renovation)

개편 (restructuring)

How to Use It

frequency

High in professional, technical, and news contexts. Moderate in daily life (mostly for cars).

Common Mistakes

Using 정비하다 for a broken toy. → 고치다 or 수리하다.
정비하다 is too formal and systematic for a simple toy.
Saying '내 방을 정비했다'. → 내 방을 정리했다.
정리 is for tidying; 정비 is for technical/systemic work.
Using 정비하다 for sewing a button. → 수선하다 or 달다.
Sewing is '수선', not technical '정비'.
Confusing 정비하다 with 준비하다. → Depends on context.
준비 is general 'readying'; 정비 is 'fixing/organizing to be ready'.
Using 정비하다 for people (e.g., 'I will fix you'). → 고쳐 주다 (metaphorical) or 도와주다.
You can't maintain a person like a machine.

Tips

Think 'Maintenance'

Whenever you want to say 'maintain' in a professional way, '정비하다' is your best bet.

Use with 을/를

It is a transitive verb. Always identify *what* you are maintaining using the object marker.

Resume Power Word

Use '프로세스 정비' (process maintenance) on your resume to show you can improve systems.

Car Talk

If your car needs a checkup, tell the mechanic '정비하러 왔어요' (I'm here for maintenance).

Urban Signs

If you see '환경 정비' on a sign, it just means they are cleaning or fixing up the area.

Not for clothes

Don't use it for clothes. Use '수선하다' (mend) or '세탁하다' (wash) instead.

Mental Reset

Use '마음을 정비하다' when you need to focus after a stressful event.

Historical Dramas

When a King says '나라를 정비하겠다', he means he's going to fix the country's systems.

TOPIK II

This word often appears in the reading section about social issues or government projects.

Safety First

'정비 불량' (poor maintenance) is a common phrase in accident reports. Avoid it!

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of 'Jeong' as 'Just' and 'Bi' as 'Before'. You '정비' something 'Just Before' you use it to make sure it's perfect. Like a mechanic checking a car 'Just Before' a race.

Visual Association

Imagine a mechanic in clean blue overalls holding a wrench in one hand and a checklist in the other. He isn't just fixing a broken part; he is making the whole engine shine and run smoothly.

Word Web

정비소 (Shop) 정비사 (Mechanic) 차량 (Vehicle) 법령 (Laws) 제도 (System) 유지 (Maintenance) 보수 (Repair) 준비 (Preparation)

Challenge

Try to find one thing in your life that needs '정비' (maintenance or reorganization) today. Is it your car? Your computer files? Or maybe your daily schedule? Write a sentence about it using '정비하다'.

Word Origin

The word is a Sino-Korean compound. '정' (整) comes from the Hanja meaning 'neat,' 'orderly,' or 'to arrange.' '비' (備) comes from the Hanja meaning 'to prepare,' 'to equip,' or 'to provide.' Together, they form the concept of arranging something into a state of preparedness.

Original meaning: To arrange and prepare equipment or systems.

Sino-Korean (Hanja)

Cultural Context

There are no major sensitivities, but when using it for 'mental states,' ensure the context is strategic or professional rather than clinical/medical.

While English speakers use 'maintain' for cars and 'reform' for laws, Korean uses '정비하다' for both, highlighting the shared concept of 'structural order'.

정비소 (A common setting in Korean dramas for hardworking male leads). 도시 정비 사업 (A frequent topic in Korean news regarding real estate and urban development). 전열을 정비하라 (A classic line in historical war movies like 'The Admiral: Roaring Currents').

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

At a Car Repair Shop

차량 정비해 주세요.
정비 비용이 얼마인가요?
정비가 언제 끝나요?
정기 정비 받으러 왔어요.

In a Business Meeting

업무 체계를 정비합시다.
조직 정비가 시급합니다.
프로세스를 다시 정비해야 해요.
인력 배치를 정비했습니다.

Government/News

법령 정비에 착수했다.
규제 정비가 진행 중이다.
도시 환경 정비 사업.
도로 정비 공사 안내.

Sports/Competition

수비 진영을 정비하다.
전열을 정비하고 반격하다.
팀워크를 다시 정비했다.
전술을 정비할 시간.

Personal Life

마음을 정비하다.
캠핑 장비를 정비하다.
주말에 집안 정비를 했다.
일정을 정비하고 있다.

Conversation Starters

"차 정비한 지 얼마나 되셨어요? (How long has it been since you maintained your car?)"

"우리 팀의 업무 방식을 좀 정비해야 할 것 같지 않아요? (Don't you think we need to reorganize our team's work method?)"

"요즘 동네 도로 정비 공사 때문에 너무 막히네요. (The traffic is so bad lately because of the neighborhood road maintenance.)"

"새해를 맞아서 생활 습관을 좀 정비해 보려고요. (I'm planning to reorganize my lifestyle habits for the New Year.)"

"혹시 주변에 실력 좋은 정비소 알고 계세요? (Do you happen to know a good maintenance shop nearby?)"

Journal Prompts

오늘 내가 정비한 것은 무엇인가? (기계, 마음, 또는 일정) (What did I maintain or organize today? - Machine, mind, or schedule)

우리 사회에서 가장 시급하게 정비해야 할 법은 무엇이라고 생각하는가? (What law do you think is most urgent to reform in our society?)

성공을 위해 자신의 '전열'을 어떻게 정비할 것인가? (How will you reorganize your 'ranks' for success?)

정기적인 정비가 인생에서 왜 중요한지 써 보세요. (Write about why regular maintenance is important in life.)

과거에 시스템이나 장비를 정비하지 않아서 겪었던 실수에 대해 써 보세요. (Write about a mistake you experienced because you didn't maintain a system or equipment.)

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

Usually, no. '정리하다' is for tidying a room. You would only use '정비하다' if you are treating your room like a technical laboratory or a complex system that needs an overhaul.

Mostly yes, it refers to auto repair shops. However, it can also be used for airplanes (항공 정비소) or heavy machinery, but '자동차 정비소' is the most common.

'고치다' sounds like the car was broken and you fixed it. '정비하다' sounds like you are doing professional maintenance, which might include an oil change, checking brakes, etc., regardless of whether it's broken.

Not directly. You don't '정비' a person. But you can '정비' a person's *environment* or their *mind* (meaning to pull themselves together).

Yes, it is more formal than '고치다' or '정리하다'. It is frequently used in news, business, and technical contexts.

It means the government is cleaning up, updating, and organizing laws to make them consistent and effective.

You can say '정비사' (professional/polite) or '정비공' (more manual/labor-focused).

Yes! You can '정비' a database or a system architecture to make it more efficient.

Not necessarily. It often implies preventive maintenance to *prevent* it from breaking.

Yes, they share the Hanja '비' (備), which means to prepare. '정비' is preparing through organization and maintenance.