의문 in 30 Seconds
- "의문" means doubt, question, or uncertainty.
- Used when something is unclear or needs clarification.
- Common in news, discussions, and when expressing personal reservations.
- Key phrases: 의문이 생기다 (doubt arises), 의문을 품다 (harbor doubt).
- Core Meaning
- "의문" (uimun) signifies a doubt, a question, or a point of uncertainty about something. It's the feeling or state of not being sure about a fact, a situation, or a person's intentions.
- When It's Used
- You'll encounter "의문" in various contexts where people are grappling with ambiguity or seeking clarification. It can range from personal anxieties about a relationship to professional uncertainties about a project's success, or even philosophical questions about life. It's a common word when discussing investigations, mysteries, or any situation where the truth is not immediately apparent. For instance, if a friend suddenly becomes quiet and distant, you might have "의문" about what's bothering them. In a detective story, the initial unexplained events would be the central "의문" that the protagonist needs to solve. The word encapsulates that moment of pause and contemplation when something doesn't quite add up or when a question lingers in the mind.
그녀의 갑작스러운 태도 변화에 의문이 생겼다.
- Nuances
- "의문" can carry a slightly formal tone, especially when used in written contexts or more serious discussions. However, it's also very common in everyday speech to express simple questions or uncertainties. The intensity of the doubt can vary; it might be a mild curiosity or a deep-seated suspicion. It's important to note that "의문" is not just about asking questions; it's about the internal state of questioning or having reservations.
이 사건의 진실에 대한 의문이 깊어지고 있다.
- Related Concepts
- "의문" is closely related to words like "질문" (jilmun - question), "궁금증" (gunggeumjeung - curiosity), and "불확실성" (bulhwaksilseong - uncertainty). While "질문" is the act of asking, "의문" is the state of having a question or doubt. "궁금증" is more about a general desire to know, whereas "의문" implies a specific point of uncertainty. "불확실성" is a broader term for lack of certainty, and "의문" is a specific manifestation of that uncertainty.
- Forming "의문" Sentences
- The most common way to use "의문" is in phrases like "의문이 생기다" (uimuni saenggida - to arise a doubt/question), "의문을 품다" (uimuneul pumda - to harbor a doubt/question), or "의문을 제기하다" (uimuneul jegihada - to raise a question/doubt). You can also use it with verbs like "가지다" (gajida - to have) to express having a doubt. For example, "나는 그의 말에 의문을 가졌다" (Naneun geuui mare uimuneul gajyeotda - I had doubts about his words).
그는 사실 여부에 대해 의문을 품고 있었다.
- Expressing Uncertainty
- When you want to express that something is questionable or doubtful, you can say it's "의문스럽다" (uimunseureopda), which means "doubtful" or "questionable." For instance, "그의 설명은 의문스럽다" (Geuui seolmyeongeun uimunseureopda - His explanation is doubtful). This adjective form is very useful for describing situations or statements.
이번 프로젝트의 성공 가능성에 대해 많은 의문이 제기되었다.
- Asking About Doubts
- You can also inquire if someone has doubts. A natural way to ask this is, "혹시 의문 가는 점이 있으신가요?" (Hoksi uimun ganeun jeomi isseusingayo? - Do you perhaps have any points of doubt?). This is a polite and common way to check for understanding or potential concerns.
그녀의 진술은 여러 가지 의문을 남겼다.
- Common Sentence Structures
- 1. Subject + Object + 에 대한 + 의문 + 이/가 + Verb (e.g., 나는 그의 말에 대한 의문이 생겼다.) 2. Subject + 의문 + 을/를 + Verb (e.g., 우리는 이 결정에 의문을 품었다.) 3. Subject + Object + 에 + 의문 + 을/를 + 제기하다 (e.g., 언론은 정부의 발표에 의문을 제기했다.) 4. Object + 은/는 + 의문 + 스럽다 (e.g., 그 결과는 의문스럽다.) These structures provide a solid foundation for using "의문" effectively in your Korean communication.
- News and Investigations
- You'll frequently hear "의문" in news reports, especially when discussing crimes, accidents, or political scandals. Journalists often use phrases like "미스터리한 의문" (miseuteori han uimun - mysterious doubt) or "풀리지 않는 의문" (pulliji anneun uimun - unsolved question). For example, a news report about a missing person might state, "실종 사건에 대한 여러 가지 의문이 제기되고 있습니다." (Siljong sageone daehan yeoreogaji uimuni jegidoego itseumnida. - Various doubts are being raised about the disappearance case.) This highlights how "의문" is central to narratives of investigation and the pursuit of truth.
경찰은 사건 현장에서 발견된 증거의 신빙성에 의문을 제기했다.
- Discussions and Debates
- In everyday conversations, especially when discussing complex topics, personal relationships, or planning events, people often express their uncertainties using "의문." If you're discussing a friend's sudden decision to quit their job, you might say, "그 결정에 좀 의문이 가더라고." (Geu gyeoljeonge jom uimuni gadeorago. - I had some doubts about that decision.) This shows how "의문" is used to articulate personal reservations or points of confusion.
그의 주장은 논리적으로 의문스러운 부분이 많았다.
- Literature and Media
- In dramas, movies, and literature, "의문" is a key element for building suspense and character development. A character might be plagued by "의문" about their past, or a mystery might revolve around "풀리지 않는 의문." For example, a detective might say, "이 사건의 가장 큰 의문은 범행 동기입니다." (I sageonui gajang keun uimuneun beomhaeng donggiimnida. - The biggest question in this case is the motive for the crime.)
- Academic and Professional Settings
- In academic papers or professional reports, "의문" is used to point out areas that require further research or clarification. For example, a researcher might write, "이 현상에 대한 기존 연구는 몇 가지 의문을 남긴다." (I hyeonsange daehan gijun yeonguneun myeot gaji uimuneul namginda. - Existing research on this phenomenon leaves several questions.) This demonstrates its utility in academic discourse for identifying gaps in knowledge.
- Confusing with "질문" (Question)
- A common mistake is to use "의문" interchangeably with "질문" (jilmun - question). While related, they are not the same. "질문" refers to the act of asking a question or the question itself. "의문" refers to the state of doubt or uncertainty that may lead to a question, or a point that is unclear. For example, you wouldn't say "나는 그의 말에 질문이 생겼다" (I had a question about his words) if you mean you had a doubt; you would say "나는 그의 말에 의문이 생겼다" (I had a doubt about his words). If you have a specific question to ask, you use "질문." If you are feeling uncertain or suspicious, you use "의문."
Mistake: 나는 그의 말에 질문이 생겼다.
- Overusing "의문"
- While "의문" is a versatile word, sometimes a simpler or more specific word is more appropriate. For instance, if you are simply curious about something, "궁금하다" (gunggeumhada - to be curious) might be better than "의문이 생기다." Using "의문" when a straightforward question is intended can sound overly formal or even accusatory in some contexts. Always consider the nuance and the specific feeling you want to convey.
Overuse Example: 이 문제에 대해 나는 모든 것이 의문이다.
- Incorrect Verb Collocations
- Using the wrong verb with "의문" can lead to unnatural phrasing. As mentioned, "의문이 생기다" (to arise), "의문을 품다" (to harbor), and "의문을 제기하다" (to raise) are standard. Avoid using verbs that don't fit the context of doubt or questioning. For instance, you wouldn't typically "의문을 만들다" (make a doubt) or "의문을 먹다" (eat a doubt).
- Misunderstanding "의문스럽다"
- The adjective "의문스럽다" (uimunseureopda - doubtful, questionable) should be used to describe something that causes doubt. It's not used to describe the person who has the doubt. For example, you would say "그의 행동은 의문스럽다" (His actions are questionable), not "나는 의문스럽다" (I am questionable) unless you are implying that you yourself are doubtful about something.
- "질문" (Jilmun) - Question
- Usage: "질문" is the act of asking or the question itself. It's direct and seeks information. Comparison: "의문" is the state of doubt or uncertainty, which might lead to a "질문." You have an "의문" about something, and then you might ask a "질문" to resolve it. Example: - 의문: 그의 설명에 의문이 들었다. (I had doubts about his explanation.) - 질문: 그래서 나는 그에게 몇 가지 질문을 했다. (So I asked him a few questions.)
- "궁금증" (Gunggeumjeung) - Curiosity
- Usage: "궁금증" refers to a general feeling of curiosity or a desire to know. It's often less specific than "의문." Comparison: "의문" implies a specific point of uncertainty or doubt, often with a hint of skepticism. "궁금증" is a broader, more neutral desire for information. Example: - 의문: 이 사건의 배후에는 풀리지 않는 의문이 있다. (There are unsolved doubts behind this case.) - 궁금증: 나는 그가 어떻게 성공했는지에 대한 궁금증이 많다. (I have a lot of curiosity about how he succeeded.)
- "불확실성" (Bulhwaksilseong) - Uncertainty
- Usage: "불확실성" is a general state of not being sure or predictable. It's a broader concept. Comparison: "의문" is a specific instance or manifestation of "불확실성." When you have an "의문," you are experiencing "불확실성" about a particular aspect. Example: - 의문: 그의 증언에는 몇 가지 의문스러운 점이 있었다. (There were several questionable points in his testimony.) - 불확실성: 미래에 대한 불확실성 때문에 많은 사람들이 불안해한다. (Many people feel anxious due to the uncertainty about the future.)
- "의심" (Uisim) - Suspicion/Distrust
- Usage: "의심" implies a stronger negative connotation, suggesting distrust or suspicion that someone or something is wrong or deceitful. Comparison: "의문" is often neutral or can be a simple lack of clarity. "의심" carries a sense of distrust or belief in wrongdoing. Example: - 의문: 그의 갑작스러운 퇴장에 의문이 생긴다. (A question arises about his sudden departure.) - 의심: 나는 그가 거짓말을 하고 있다는 의심이 든다. (I suspect he is lying.)
- "물음" (Mureum) - Question (more literary)
- Usage: "물음" is a more literary or poetic term for "question." It's less common in everyday speech than "질문." Comparison: While both refer to questions, "의문" refers to the doubt or uncertainty itself, whereas "물음" refers to the query. "물음" can sometimes imply a deeper or more philosophical question than a simple "질문." Example: - 의문: 이 상황에서 무엇이 옳은 것인지 의문이 든다. (I have doubts about what is right in this situation.) - 물음: 그는 삶의 의미에 대한 깊은 물음을 던졌다. (He posed deep questions about the meaning of life.)
Examples by Level
이것은 질문인가요?
Is this a question?
Basic question structure.
나는 잘 모르겠어요.
I don't know well.
Expressing lack of knowledge.
이것은 맞나요?
Is this correct?
Simple yes/no question.
왜 그래요?
Why is that?
Basic interrogative.
이것이 무엇인가요?
What is this?
Asking for identification.
조금 이상해요.
It's a little strange.
Describing something unusual.
나는 확신이 없어요.
I am not sure.
Expressing lack of certainty.
이것은 답이 없어요?
Is there no answer to this?
Asking about the absence of an answer.
이것에 대해 의문이 있어요.
I have a question/doubt about this.
Using '의문이 있다' to express a question or doubt.
왜 그렇게 생각하세요?
Why do you think so?
Direct question seeking reason.
그것이 사실인지 잘 모르겠어요.
I'm not sure if that is true.
Expressing uncertainty about truth.
이 길로 가면 맞나요?
Is this the right way to go?
Asking for confirmation of direction.
그것은 좀 이상해요.
That is a bit strange.
Describing something as odd.
이것은 어떻게 하는 건가요?
How do you do this?
Asking for instructions.
저는 그 부분에 대해 궁금해요.
I am curious about that part.
Expressing curiosity.
이것이 맞는지 확인해 주세요.
Please confirm if this is correct.
Requesting verification.
그의 설명에는 몇 가지 의문이 생겼다.
Several doubts arose from his explanation.
'의문이 생기다' - to arise a doubt.
그것이 사실인지 아닌지 의문을 품고 있다.
I am harboring doubts about whether that is true or not.
'의문을 품다' - to harbor a doubt.
이 결정이 최선인지 의문스럽다.
It is doubtful whether this decision is the best.
'의문스럽다' - to be doubtful/questionable.
이번 프로젝트의 성공 가능성에 대해 의문이 제기되었다.
Doubts were raised about the possibility of this project's success.
'의문이 제기되다' - a doubt is raised.
나는 그가 왜 그렇게 행동했는지에 대한 의문을 풀고 싶다.
I want to resolve the doubts about why he acted that way.
'의문을 풀다' - to resolve a doubt.
그녀의 갑작스러운 태도 변화는 나에게 의문을 안겨주었다.
Her sudden change in attitude gave me cause for doubt.
'의문을 안겨주다' - to give cause for doubt.
이 상황에서 무엇이 옳은지 의문이 든다.
I have doubts about what is right in this situation.
'의문이 들다' - to have a doubt arise.
그의 주장은 논리적으로 의문스러운 부분이 많다.
His claims have many logically questionable parts.
'의문스러운 부분' - questionable part.
그는 사건의 진실 여부에 대해 깊은 의문을 품고 있었다.
He harbored deep doubts about the truth of the case.
Using '의문을 품다' for a more profound doubt.
언론은 정부의 발표에 대해 여러 가지 의문을 제기했다.
The media raised various doubts about the government's announcement.
'의문을 제기하다' used in a formal context (media).
그녀의 갑작스러운 행동은 주변 사람들에게 의문을 불러일으켰다.
Her sudden actions caused doubts among those around her.
'의문을 불러일으키다' - to cause or evoke doubt.
이 보고서의 결론은 여러 가지 의문을 남긴다.
The conclusion of this report leaves many questions.
'의문을 남기다' - to leave questions/doubts.
그의 변명은 너무 의문스러워서 믿기 어려웠다.
His excuse was so questionable that it was hard to believe.
Using '의문스럽다' to describe something highly doubtful.
이 문제에 대한 명확한 답이 없다는 사실 자체가 의문이다.
The very fact that there is no clear answer to this issue is itself a question.
Using '의문이다' to state that something is a question/doubt.
우리는 그의 동기에 대해 의문을 가지지 않을 수 없었다.
We could not help but have doubts about his motives.
'의문을 가지다' - to have doubts.
이 현상에 대한 기존 연구는 몇 가지 의문을 남긴다.
Existing research on this phenomenon leaves several questions.
Academic usage: '의문을 남기다' in research context.
그녀의 침묵은 단순한 망설임인지, 아니면 더 깊은 의문 때문인지 분간하기 어려웠다.
It was difficult to discern whether her silence was simple hesitation or due to deeper doubts.
Distinguishing between different reasons for silence, using '의문' for deeper concerns.
고전 문학 작품에는 인간 존재의 근원적인 의문에 대한 탐구가 담겨 있다.
Classical literary works contain explorations into the fundamental questions of human existence.
Using '의문' for philosophical and existential questions.
그의 주장은 표면적으로는 타당해 보였지만, 자세히 들여다볼수록 의문스러운 지점들이 드러났다.
His claims seemed plausible on the surface, but the more closely one looked, the more questionable points emerged.
Identifying subtle '의문스러운 지점들' (questionable points) upon closer inspection.
역사적 사건에 대한 해석은 종종 다양한 의문과 논쟁을 불러일으킨다.
Interpretations of historical events often give rise to various doubts and debates.
'의문' used in the context of historical interpretation and debate.
그는 자신의 신념 체계에 대한 끊임없는 의문을 통해 더욱 성숙해졌다.
He matured further through constant questioning of his belief system.
Using '의문' for self-reflection and critical examination of one's own beliefs.
이론의 타당성에 대한 의문은 추가적인 실험을 통해 해소될 수 있다.
Doubts about the validity of the theory can be resolved through further experimentation.
'의문' used in a scientific context, requiring empirical resolution.
그의 모호한 답변은 오히려 의문을 증폭시키는 결과를 낳았다.
His ambiguous answers ironically resulted in amplifying the doubts.
'의문' being amplified by unclear communication.
우리는 사회 구조의 근본적인 의문에 대해 성찰할 필요가 있다.
We need to reflect on the fundamental questions of social structure.
'근본적인 의문' referring to fundamental societal questions.
그의 예술 작품은 보는 이로 하여금 존재의 본질에 대한 심오한 의문을 던지게 한다.
His artwork poses profound questions about the essence of existence to the viewer.
Highly sophisticated use of '의문' in an artistic and philosophical context.
이 문학 비평서는 작품 속에 내재된 복합적인 의문들을 섬세하게 파헤친다.
This literary criticism meticulously delves into the complex doubts inherent in the work.
Analyzing '복합적인 의문들' (complex doubts) within a literary work.
그의 철학적 사유는 끊임없이 기존의 통념에 대한 의문을 제기하며 새로운 지평을 열었다.
His philosophical thought constantly raised questions about existing common notions, opening new horizons.
Using '의문' to describe the act of challenging established norms in philosophy.
역사적 기록의 불완전성은 해석상의 의문을 남기며, 이는 끊임없는 학문적 논쟁의 대상이 된다.
The incompleteness of historical records leaves interpretive doubts, making them a subject of continuous academic debate.
Discussing '해석상의 의문' (interpretive doubts) arising from incomplete historical data.
그녀는 자신의 정체성에 대한 오랜 의문을 종교적 탐구를 통해 해소하고자 했다.
She sought to resolve her long-standing doubts about her identity through religious exploration.
Using '의문' for deeply personal and existential identity issues.
이 과학적 난제는 해결의 실마리를 찾기 어려운 근본적인 의문을 내포하고 있다.
This scientific conundrum embodies fundamental questions that are difficult to find clues to solving.
'근본적인 의문' referring to deep, foundational scientific challenges.
그의 작품은 현실과 환상의 경계에 대한 의문을 끊임없이 제기하며 관객을 사유의 세계로 이끈다.
His work constantly raises questions about the boundary between reality and fantasy, leading the audience into a world of thought.
Artistic use of '의문' to explore abstract concepts like reality vs. fantasy.
사회 계약론의 핵심에는 개인의 자유와 국가의 권위에 관한 의문이 자리 잡고 있다.
At the heart of social contract theory lie questions regarding individual liberty and state authority.
'의문' used in the context of foundational political philosophy.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
— To have a doubt or question arise.
그녀의 갑작스러운 태도 변화에 의문이 생겼다. (A doubt arose regarding her sudden change in attitude.)
— To harbor or hold a doubt or question.
나는 그의 말의 진실성에 대해 의문을 품고 있다. (I harbor doubts about the truthfulness of his words.)
— To raise a question or doubt; to challenge something.
검찰은 피고인의 알리바이에 의문을 제기했다. (The prosecution raised doubts about the defendant's alibi.)
— To be doubtful or questionable.
그 결과는 매우 의문스럽다. (That result is highly questionable.)
— An unsolved mystery or unanswered question.
이 사건에는 여전히 풀리지 않는 의문이 많다. (There are still many unsolved questions in this case.)
— A point of doubt or a question.
이 계획에는 몇 가지 의문점이 있습니다. (There are a few points of doubt in this plan.)
— To feel a doubt or question arise.
그의 변명에 의문이 들었다. (I felt doubts about his excuse.)
— A fundamental or root question/doubt.
우리는 삶의 근본적인 의문에 대해 고민해야 한다. (We must ponder the fundamental questions of life.)
— Resolution of doubts or questions.
추가적인 정보로 의문 해소가 되었다. (The doubts were resolved with additional information.)
— Full of doubts; questionable.
그의 이야기는 의문투성이였다. (His story was full of doubts.)
Idioms & Expressions
— Literally 'question mark.' It refers to a point of doubt or uncertainty, similar to a question mark in thought.
그의 갑작스러운 침묵은 내게 의문 부호였다. (His sudden silence was a question mark for me.)
Figurative— Meaning something is full of doubts or is highly questionable, like a string of question marks.
그의 계획은 처음부터 의문투성이였다. (His plan was full of doubts from the start.)
Informal/Figurative— There is no room for doubt; it is certain or unquestionable.
그의 실력은 의문의 여지가 없다. (There is no room for doubt about his skills.)
Formal/Emphatic— To regard something as doubtful or questionable.
사람들은 그의 성공을 의문스럽게 여겼다. (People regarded his success as questionable.)
Neutral— To pose a question or raise a doubt, often implying a challenge or a need for consideration.
그는 사회의 불평등에 대해 의문을 던졌다. (He posed questions about social inequality.)
Figurative/Formal— To remain an unanswered question or an unresolved doubt.
그 사건의 진실은 영원히 의문으로 남았다. (The truth of that case remained forever an unanswered question.)
Figurative— Describing something as being full of doubts or questionable.
그녀의 이야기는 의문 투성이의 연속이었다. (Her story was a series full of doubts.)
Figurative/Informal— To resolve or clear up doubts or questions.
충분한 설명으로 모든 의문이 해소되었다. (All doubts were resolved with sufficient explanation.)
Neutral/Formal— To look at someone or something with doubt or suspicion.
그녀는 그의 제안을 의문스럽게 바라보았다. (She looked at his proposal with doubt.)
Figurative— The key to resolving doubts or questions.
Summary
"의문" is your go-to word for expressing doubt, uncertainty, or a lingering question about something. It's versatile, appearing in formal investigations and casual conversations alike, signaling that something isn't quite clear or settled.
- "의문" means doubt, question, or uncertainty.
- Used when something is unclear or needs clarification.
- Common in news, discussions, and when expressing personal reservations.
- Key phrases: 의문이 생기다 (doubt arises), 의문을 품다 (harbor doubt).
Related Content
This Word in Other Languages
More general words
몇몇
A2An unspecified small number of; some or a few.
조금
A1A little/a bit
적게
A1A little / Few
약간
A2A little; slightly; somewhat.
많이
A1A lot/much
잠시
A2For a moment; briefly.
잠깐
A2For a short time; a moment.
아까
A2A little while ago, earlier.
대해
A2About, concerning.
~에 대해서
A2Concerning or regarding a particular subject; about.
