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현저하다

B2 adjective #4,000 most common 9 min read

현저하다

hyeonjeohada Top 4,000

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips 현저하다 in 30 Seconds

Explanation 현저하다 in your Level:

At the A1 level, '현저하다' is too advanced to use yourself, but you can think of it as a very strong version of '많이' (a lot) or '커요' (is big). Imagine you have two apples. One is tiny, and the other is as big as a watermelon. That 'big' difference is what '현저하다' describes. You won't need to say this word in basic greetings or when ordering food. Instead of this word, you would use '진짜 달라요' (It's really different). If you see this word in a book, just remember it means 'Wow, that's a really big and clear difference!' It is like the difference between a sunny day and a stormy night—it's very obvious to everyone.

For A2 learners, '현저하다' is a word you might start to see in simple news headlines or more formal reading passages. It is an adjective that means 'to be very clear' or 'to be remarkable.' At this level, you are learning to compare things using '-보다' (than). '현저하다' is the word people use when the comparison shows a huge gap. For example, if you study very hard and your test score goes from 20 to 100, that is a '현저한' (remarkable) change. You don't need to use it in daily life yet, but recognizing it will help you understand formal Korean. It is usually used with words like '차이' (difference) or '변화' (change).

At the B1 level, you are moving beyond basic conversation into more complex topics. '현저하다' is a useful word to know for describing trends or comparing situations in a slightly more formal way. It is a Hanja-based word (顯著). '현' means 'to show' and '저' means 'clear.' You can use it when writing short essays or giving a simple presentation. For example, you could say '도시와 시골의 생활 방식은 현저하게 다릅니다' (The lifestyles of the city and the countryside are remarkably different). It makes your Korean sound more organized and professional. Remember that it's an adjective, so it becomes '현저한' before a noun and '현저하게' or '현저히' when used as an adverb.

At the B2 level, you should be able to use '현저하다' correctly in formal writing and discussions. This word is essential for the TOPIK II exam, especially in the writing section where you describe graphs or social phenomena. It specifically conveys that a difference or change is not just present, but strikingly obvious and significant. You should use it to replace simpler words like '매우 크다' or '분명하다' when you want to sound more objective and analytical. Common collocations at this level include '현저한 차이를 보이다' (to show a remarkable difference) and '현저히 떨어지다' (to drop remarkably). It is a key word for discussing economics, social issues, and scientific results.

For C1 learners, '현저하다' is a standard part of your professional vocabulary. You should understand its nuances compared to synonyms like '두드러지다' or '명확하다.' At this level, you use '현저하다' to provide authoritative descriptions of data or to emphasize a point in a debate. You might use it in legal or business contexts, such as '현저한 불공정' (striking unfairness) or '현저한 실적 개선' (remarkable improvement in performance). You should also be comfortable with its adverbial form '현저히' in various sentence structures. At C1, you use this word not just to mean 'big,' but to imply that the difference is so great that it leads to a specific conclusion or requires action.

At the C2 level, you have a complete grasp of '현저하다' and its place in the Korean lexicon. You can use it with poetic or highly technical precision. You understand that it carries an 'objective' nuance, unlike '눈에 띄다' which is more 'subjective.' You can identify when a writer uses '현저하다' to create a tone of clinical detachment or dramatic emphasis in literature. You are also aware of its usage in historical texts or high-level legal precedents. At this level, you can effortlessly switch between '현저하다' and other high-level descriptors like '괄목할 만하다' (remarkable/noteworthy) or '현격하다' (to be wide/gaping), choosing the one that perfectly fits the stylistic demands of your discourse.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

현저하다 in 30 Seconds

현저하다 means 'remarkably clear' or 'strikingly obvious.'
It is a formal word used for comparing data, trends, or visible changes.
It often appears as '현저한' (adjective) or '현저히/현저하게' (adverb).
Commonly found in news, academic papers, and professional reports.

The Korean adjective 현저하다 (hyeon-jeo-ha-da) is a sophisticated, formal word used to describe something that is strikingly clear, remarkably obvious, or distinctly noticeable. It is primarily used when comparing two states, groups, or periods of time where the difference is so large that it cannot be ignored. Derived from Hanja roots—顯 (현) meaning 'to reveal' or 'manifest' and 著 (저) meaning 'clear' or 'distinct'—the word literally translates to 'manifestly clear.' Unlike more common words like '크다' (big) or '분명하다' (clear), 현저하다 carries a weight of objective observation, making it a staple in academic writing, news reporting, and professional analysis.

Statistical Context: When researchers observe a 'significant' gap between two data sets, they describe it as a 현저한 차이 (remarkable difference). It implies that the data doesn't just show a slight variation but a gap that is statistically and practically meaningful.
Physical or Qualitative Changes: In medical or self-improvement contexts, if a patient's health improves so much that everyone can see it, it is described as 현저한 회복 (remarkable recovery). It suggests a visible transformation from a previous state.

최근 들어 기술의 발전 속도가 과거에 비해 현저하다.
Recently, the speed of technological development has been remarkably clear compared to the past.

You will encounter this word most frequently in formal environments. If you are reading a Korean newspaper like the Chosun Ilbo or JoongAng Ilbo, you will see it used to describe economic trends, such as a 현저한 감소 (marked decrease) in exports or a 현저한 증가 (marked increase) in the elderly population. It is rarely used in casual spoken Korean between friends; using it while grabbing coffee might sound overly dramatic or like you are reciting a textbook. However, in a business meeting or a university presentation, it is exactly the kind of high-level vocabulary that demonstrates fluency and precision.

두 제품의 성능 차이는 육안으로도 현저하게 드러난다.
The performance difference between the two products is remarkably evident even to the naked eye.

Visual Prominence: It is used when a feature stands out physically. For example, a building that is '현저하게 높다' (remarkably tall) compared to the surrounding skyline.

In summary, 현저하다 is your go-to word for 'strikingly obvious' in formal contexts. It bridges the gap between simple observation and professional analysis, allowing you to describe significant shifts in society, economy, and science with the appropriate level of gravitas.

Using 현저하다 correctly requires understanding its grammatical behavior as a descriptive verb (adjective). It most commonly appears in two forms: as a predicate ending a sentence (현저하다, 현저합니다) or as an adverbial modifier (현저하게) to describe the degree of a following verb or adjective. Because it is a formal word, it is almost always paired with formal endings like -ㄴ다/는다 in written reports or -습니다 in speeches.

올해는 작년에 비해 강수량의 차이가 현저하다.
This year, the difference in rainfall is remarkable compared to last year.

When used as an adverb, 현저하게 modifies verbs of change like 떨어지다 (to fall), 늘어나다 (to increase), or 개선되다 (to be improved). This is perhaps the most common way you will see the word used in professional settings. It answers the question 'To what degree?' with the answer 'To a striking degree.'

Comparative Pattern: Structure: [A]은/는 [B]에 비해 [Attribute]가 현저하다.
Example: 이 약은 기존 약에 비해 부작용이 현저히 적다. (This medicine has remarkably fewer side effects compared to existing ones.)

Another frequent usage is the noun-modifying form 현저한. This is placed directly before a noun to describe its quality. Common pairings include 현저한 차이 (remarkable difference), 현저한 특징 (striking characteristic), or 현저한 발전 (remarkable progress).

두 후보의 지지율에서 현저한 격차가 벌어졌다.
A remarkable gap has opened up in the approval ratings of the two candidates.

In academic papers, you might see it used to validate a hypothesis. For instance, 'The experimental group showed a 현저한 improvement over the control group.' This signals to the reader that the results are not just random noise but a clear, observable trend. In legal contexts, it is used to describe 'gross negligence' or 'striking unfairness' (현저히 불공정한), where the level of unfairness is so high it warrants legal intervention.

Negative Contexts: It is often used to describe decline. 시력이 현저하게 나빠졌다 (My eyesight has become remarkably worse). Here, it emphasizes the severity and noticeability of the decline.

To master this word, try replacing '매우' (very) or '많이' (a lot) with '현저히' when you are writing an essay or a formal email. It instantly elevates the tone of your Korean from conversational to professional.

In South Korea, 현저하다 is a word of the 'public square.' You are unlikely to hear it in a K-drama rom-com unless a character is a lawyer, a doctor, or a high-ranking CEO delivering a report. However, it is ubiquitous in media that deals with facts, figures, and social trends. If you turn on the 9 o'clock news on KBS or MBC, you will hear it within the first fifteen minutes, usually during the economy or social issues segment.

[News Anchor]: 이번 분기 수출 실적이 지난 분기에 비해 현저히 감소했습니다.
[News Anchor]: This quarter's export performance has remarkably decreased compared to the last quarter.

Another common place to hear this word is in educational settings. Professors in Korean universities use 현저하다 to describe comparative theories or experimental results. It's a word that signals 'pay attention to this specific difference.' In a lecture on sociology, a professor might discuss the 현저한 빈부격차 (remarkable gap between the rich and the poor) in modern society.

In the Workplace: During a performance review or a project debrief, a manager might say, 'Your productivity has improved 현저하게 over the last month.' This is high praise because it means your hard work is not just subtle—it’s obvious to everyone.

You will also find this word in medical consultations. A doctor explaining a scan or test results might use it to describe a change in a patient's condition. 'The inflammation has gone down 현저히,' they might say, providing the patient with clear, objective reassurance. In this context, it conveys a sense of clinical precision.

과거와 비교했을 때, 시민들의 의식 수준이 현저히 높아졌다.
Compared to the past, the level of civic consciousness has remarkably increased.

Lastly, legal documents and court proceedings are filled with this term. If a contract is broken or a law is violated in a 'striking' way, the term 현저하다 is used to establish the severity of the act. It is a word that demands evidence; you don't call something 현저하다 unless you can prove it with data or visible proof. Hearing this word should immediately shift your brain into 'formal analysis' mode.

Because 현저하다 is a high-level vocabulary word, learners often make mistakes regarding its register and the types of nouns it can modify. The most common mistake is using it in casual, everyday conversation. While it is grammatically correct to say '밥을 현저하게 많이 먹었어' (I ate a remarkably large amount of food), it sounds incredibly strange and robotic to a native speaker. In casual settings, you should use '정말,' '진짜,' or '엄청' instead.

Register Mismatch: Mistake: (To a friend) '너 오늘 현저하게 예쁘다!' (You look remarkably pretty today!)
Correction: '너 오늘 진짜 예쁘다!' 현저하다 is too cold and clinical for compliments or personal feelings.

Another frequent error is confusing 현저하다 with 분명하다 (to be clear/certain). While they share a similar meaning of 'clarity,' 분명하다 often refers to the certainty of a fact or the clarity of a sound/image. 현저하다, on the other hand, specifically requires a comparison. You use it when something stands out because it is different from something else or from its previous state.

X: 그 사람의 목소리가 현저하다.
O: 그 사람의 목소리가 분명하다.
Explanation: You use '분명하다' for clear sounds. You'd only use '현저하다' if the voice became remarkably louder than before.

Learners also sometimes struggle with the adverb forms 현저하게 and 현저히. While they are mostly interchangeable, 현저히 is more common with adjectives like 낮다 (low) or 적다 (few), while 현저하게 is often used with dynamic verbs of change. Mixing them up isn't a huge error, but using 현저히 in a report makes you sound more like a native academic.

Misusing with Subjective Feelings: Mistake: '내 기분이 현저하게 좋다.' (My mood is remarkably good.)
Correction: '내 기분이 매우 좋다.' 현저하다 is for objective, observable data, not for internal subjective feelings that others can't see or measure.

Finally, avoid using it for small or insignificant changes. If the temperature drops by 1 degree, it is not 현저한 변화. It must be a change that 'hits you in the face' with its obviousness. Using it for minor details makes you sound like you don't understand the scale of the word.

To truly master 현저하다, you must understand how it sits alongside its synonyms. Korean has many words for 'clear' or 'remarkable,' but each has a specific 'flavor' or register. Choosing the right one depends on whether you are talking about a physical sight, a logical conclusion, or a statistical trend.

현저하다 vs. 두드러지다 (Du-deu-reo-ji-da): 현저하다 is more formal and Hanja-based. 두드러지다 is a native Korean word. While both mean 'remarkable' or 'standing out,' 두드러지다 is often used for physical features (like a prominent nose) or individual talents, whereas 현저하다 is used for data and abstract differences.
현저하다 vs. 뚜렷하다 (Ttu-ryeot-ha-da): 뚜렷하다 means 'distinct' or 'clear.' It is used for memories, outlines, or goals. If you have a 'clear goal,' you say 뚜렷한 목표. If there is a 'clear difference' in a graph, you use 현저한 차이. 현저하다 emphasizes the degree of difference more than the clarity of the shape.

[Comparison Example]
1. 기억이 뚜렷하다 (The memory is clear/vivid).
2. 차이가 현저하다 (The difference is remarkable/striking).

If you want to be even more academic, you might use 명확하다 (Myeong-hwak-ha-da). This means 'clear and accurate.' It is used when there is no room for doubt or confusion. While 현저하다 describes how much something stands out, 명확하다 describes how well something is defined.

Other Alternatives

탁월하다 (Tak-wol-ha-da): Used for 'excellence.' If someone's skill is remarkably better than others, use this.
상당하다 (Sang-dang-ha-da): Means 'considerable.' It’s a bit weaker than 현저하다. Use it for 'quite a lot.'
눈에 띄다 (Nun-e ttui-da): A common idiom meaning 'to catch the eye.' This is the conversational equivalent of 현저하다.

Understanding these subtle differences will help you sound more like a native speaker who knows the 'social rules' of the Korean language. 현저하다 is your tool for professional, data-driven emphasis.

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

The character '著' (저) is also used in the word '저자' (jeo-ja), meaning 'author.' This is because an author 'manifests' their thoughts into writing clearly.

Pronunciation Guide

UK hjʌndzʌ-hada

US hjʌndʒʌ-hɑːdɑː

The primary stress is on the second syllable 'jeo' (저).

Rhymes With

유저하다 (yu-jeo-ha-da) 방저하다 (bang-jeo-ha-da) 근저하다 (geun-jeo-ha-da) 정저하다 (jeong-jeo-ha-da) 공저하다 (gong-jeo-ha-da) 저자하다 (jeo-ja-ha-da) 부저하다 (bu-jeo-ha-da) 상저하다 (sang-jeo-ha-da)

Common Errors

Pronouncing '현' as '헌' (heon). Make sure to include the 'y' semi-vowel.
Pronouncing '저' as '조' (jo). Keep the vowel open as 'eo'.
Over-stressing the 'ha-da' part. It should be a light suffix.
Misplacing the nasal 'n' sound in '현'.
Confusing the 'j' in '저' with a 'ch' sound.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 4/5

Common in newspapers and textbooks, but requires knowledge of formal vocabulary.

Writing 5/5

Requires understanding of formal register and correct adverbial usage.

Speaking 6/5

Hard to use naturally in conversation without sounding overly formal.

Listening 4/5

Frequently heard in news broadcasts and lectures.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

크다 다르다 분명하다 차이 변화

Learn Next

현격하다 상당하다 괄목하다 두드러지다 확연하다

Advanced

현저성 상충되다 배치되다 왜곡되다 입증하다

Grammar to Know

Adverb formation with -게/-히

현저하다 -> 현저하게 / 현저히

Noun modification with -ㄴ/은

현저하다 -> 현저한 차이

Comparison using -에 비해 / -보다

작년에 비해 차이가 현저하다.

Describing change with -어/아지다

차이가 현저해지고 있다.

Noun clauses with -음/기

차이가 현저함을 알 수 있다.

Examples by Level

두 그림의 색깔이 현저하게 달라요.

The colors of the two pictures are remarkably different.

현저하게 is an adverb modifying '달라요' (different).

키 차이가 현저해요.

The height difference is remarkable.

현저해요 is the polite present form.

날씨가 현저하게 추워졌어요.

The weather has become remarkably colder.

현저하게 modifies the change in weather.

이 사과는 현저하게 커요.

This apple is remarkably big.

Used to emphasize size comparison.

성적이 현저히 올랐어요.

The grades went up remarkably.

현저히 is a formal adverb.

현저한 차이가 있어요.

There is a remarkable difference.

현저한 is the adjective form modifying '차이' (difference).

두 차의 속도가 현저해요.

The speed of the two cars is remarkably different.

Predicate form of the adjective.

이 방은 현저하게 밝아요.

This room is remarkably bright.

Modifying the adjective '밝아요'.

지난달보다 손님이 현저히 늘었습니다.

There are remarkably more customers than last month.

Formal -습니다 ending used in business.

두 나라의 문화는 현저하게 다릅니다.

The cultures of the two countries are remarkably different.

Comparing two distinct entities.

수술 후에 건강이 현저히 좋아졌어요.

Health became remarkably better after the surgery.

Describing a clear recovery.

이 옷은 현저하게 비싸요.

This clothing is remarkably expensive.

Emphasizing price gap.

도시의 소음이 현저하게 줄어들었다.

City noise has remarkably decreased.

Written style (-ㄴ다/는다).

두 학생의 실력 차이가 현저하다.

The difference in skill between the two students is remarkable.

Describing a skill gap.

올해는 작년보다 비가 현저히 적게 왔다.

It rained remarkably less this year than last year.

Comparing weather data.

그의 태도가 현저하게 변했다.

His attitude has changed remarkably.

Describing a behavioral shift.

신제품의 성능이 기존 제품보다 현저히 뛰어납니다.

The performance of the new product is remarkably superior to the existing one.

Used in marketing/product comparison.

수출량이 작년에 비해 현저하게 감소했습니다.

Export volume has remarkably decreased compared to last year.

Economic context.

두 지역의 인구 밀도 차이가 현저합니다.

The difference in population density between the two regions is remarkable.

Sociological description.

운동을 시작한 후 체력이 현저히 좋아졌다.

After starting exercise, my physical strength improved remarkably.

Personal health improvement.

이 약은 통증을 현저하게 완화해 줍니다.

This medicine remarkably alleviates pain.

Medical benefit description.

기술의 발달로 통신 비용이 현저히 낮아졌다.

Communication costs have become remarkably lower due to technological development.

Describing cost reduction.

두 후보 사이의 지지율 격차가 현저하다.

The gap in approval ratings between the two candidates is remarkable.

Political context.

환경 보호 노력으로 수질이 현저히 개선되었다.

Water quality has remarkably improved due to environmental protection efforts.

Environmental context.

빈부 격차가 현저하게 벌어지고 있는 것이 사회적 문제다.

The fact that the wealth gap is widening remarkably is a social problem.

Discussing social issues.

이 보고서는 두 데이터 간의 현저한 상관관계를 보여준다.

This report shows a remarkable correlation between the two data sets.

Academic/Research context.

과거의 교육 방식과 현재는 현저한 차이가 있다.

There is a remarkable difference between past and present educational methods.

Comparative analysis.

그 사건 이후로 그의 사회적 지위가 현저히 추락했다.

After that incident, his social status fell remarkably.

Describing a loss of reputation.

물가가 현저하게 올라 서민들의 삶이 힘들어졌다.

Prices have risen remarkably, making life difficult for ordinary people.

Economic impact description.

법원은 피고인의 행위가 현저히 부당하다고 판결했다.

The court ruled that the defendant's actions were remarkably unjust.

Legal context.

인터넷의 보급으로 정보의 접근성이 현저히 향상되었다.

With the spread of the internet, accessibility to information has remarkably improved.

Describing progress.

동일한 조건에서도 결과가 현저하게 다르게 나타났다.

Even under the same conditions, the results appeared remarkably different.

Scientific observation.

이번 조사는 계층 간의 의식 차이가 현저함을 입증했다.

This survey proved that the difference in consciousness between classes is remarkable.

Using -ㅁ/음 to turn the adjective into a noun clause.

그의 작품에는 초기와 후기 사이에 현저한 스타일의 변화가 보인다.

In his works, a remarkable change in style is visible between his early and late periods.

Artistic analysis.

부당 노동 행위로 인한 피해가 현저하여 구제가 필요하다.

The damage caused by unfair labor practices is remarkable, so relief is necessary.

Using -아/어서 (contracted to -하여) for cause and effect.

외국어 학습에서 노출 빈도에 따른 효과 차이는 현저하다.

In foreign language learning, the difference in effect according to exposure frequency is remarkable.

Educational theory.

정부의 개입으로 시장의 독점 현상이 현저히 줄어들었다.

With government intervention, the phenomenon of market monopoly has remarkably decreased.

Policy analysis.

두 이론은 전제 조건부터 현저하게 상충된다.

The two theories are remarkably contradictory starting from their prerequisites.

Intellectual debate.

기후 변화로 인해 생태계의 교란이 현저해지고 있다.

Disturbances in the ecosystem are becoming remarkable due to climate change.

-어/아지다 indicating a becoming process.

그 기업은 현저한 기술적 우위를 바탕으로 시장을 점유했다.

The company occupied the market based on its remarkable technological superiority.

Business strategy context.

본 계약의 조항들은 일방에게 현저히 불리하게 작성되었다.

The clauses of this contract were drafted to be remarkably disadvantageous to one party.

High-level legal drafting.

문명사적 관점에서 볼 때, 인류의 진보는 현저한 불균형을 내포한다.

From a civilizational perspective, human progress contains a remarkable imbalance.

Philosophical/Historical discourse.

언어의 자의성은 각 언어 체계 간의 현저한 괴리를 설명해 준다.

The arbitrariness of language explains the remarkable gap between each language system.

Linguistic theory.

피고의 주장은 객관적 사실과 현저히 배치되어 신빙성이 없다.

The defendant's claim is remarkably contrary to objective facts and lacks credibility.

Legal argumentation.

자본의 집중은 소득 분배의 현저한 왜곡을 초래할 수 있다.

Concentration of capital can cause a remarkable distortion in income distribution.

Economic theory.

심미적 가치의 기준은 시대에 따라 현저하게 변모해 왔다.

The standards of aesthetic value have remarkably transformed over time.

Cultural history.

유전자 조작 기술은 생명 윤리 측면에서 현저한 논란을 야기한다.

Genetic engineering technology causes remarkable controversy in terms of bioethics.

Ethics and Science.

권력의 남용이 현저할 경우, 시민의 저항권 행사는 정당화된다.

When the abuse of power is remarkable, the exercise of the right to resist by citizens is justified.

Political philosophy.

Synonyms

뚜렷하다 명백하다 눈에 띄다 두드러지다

Antonyms

미미하다 희미하다

Common Collocations

현저한 차이

현저히 낮다

현저하게 줄어들다

현저한 개선

현저한 특징

현저히 떨어지다

현저한 격차

현저하게 다르다

현저한 발달

현저한 감소

Common Phrases

현저한 차이를 보이다

— To show a remarkable difference. Used in data analysis.

두 그룹은 현저한 차이를 보였다.

현저히 낮은 수준

— A remarkably low level. Used for quality or quantity.

수익률이 현저히 낮은 수준이다.

현저한 변화가 나타나다

— A remarkable change appears. Used for observations.

실험 결과 현저한 변화가 나타났다.

현저하게 향상되다

— To be remarkably improved. Used for skills or performance.

그녀의 실력이 현저하게 향상되었다.

현저한 불균형

— A remarkable imbalance. Used for social or economic states.

지역 간의 현저한 불균형이 심화되고 있다.

현저히 부족하다

— To be remarkably insufficient. Used for resources or time.

준비 시간이 현저히 부족하다.

현저한 성과를 거두다

— To achieve a remarkable result. Used for business or sports.

올해 우리 팀은 현저한 성과를 거두었다.

현저하게 눈에 띄다

— To be remarkably eye-catching. A slightly redundant but common emphasis.

그의 활약이 현저하게 눈에 띈다.

현저한 대조를 이루다

— To form a striking contrast. Used in literature or art.

두 인물은 현저한 대조를 이룬다.

현저히 뒤떨어지다

— To fall remarkably behind. Used for competition or development.

기술력이 경쟁사에 비해 현저히 뒤떨어진다.

Often Confused With

현저하다 vs 분명하다

분명하다 is about certainty or visual clarity; 현저하다 is about the degree of difference compared to something else.

현저하다 vs 뚜렷하다

뚜렷하다 is often used for shapes or memories; 현저하다 is for statistical or qualitative gaps.

현저하다 vs 확연하다

확연하다 means 'clear and certain.' It is very close to 현저하다 but focuses more on the fact that something is 'definitely' so, rather than how much it 'stands out'.

Idioms & Expressions

"눈에 띄게"

— Visibly; remarkably. This is the common idiomatic equivalent of '현저하게'.

아이가 눈에 띄게 컸다.

Neutral

"천지 차이"

— A difference like heaven and earth. Used when the '현저한 차이' is extreme.

그 둘의 실력은 천지 차이다.

Informal

"하늘과 땅 차이"

— Same as '천지 차이'.

가격이 하늘과 땅 차이예요.

Informal

"손바닥 뒤집듯"

— Like flipping one's palm. Used when a '현저한 변화' happens too easily or suddenly.

태도를 손바닥 뒤집듯 바꿨다.

Neutral

"확연히 드러나다"

— To be revealed clearly. Used when a '현저한' truth comes out.

잘못이 확연히 드러났다.

Formal

"괄목상대 (刮目相對)"

— To see someone with new eyes due to their remarkable progress.

그의 발전은 괄목상대할 만하다.

Literary/Formal

"운니지차 (雲泥之差)"

— The difference between clouds and mud. A very formal idiom for a huge gap.

두 제품은 운니지차다.

Archaic/Formal

"비일비재하다"

— To be common/frequent. Sometimes used to contrast with something '현저하게' rare.

그런 일은 비일비재하다.

Formal

"일취월장 (日就月將)"

— Making steady and remarkable progress every day and month.

실력이 일취월장했다.

Formal

"두각을 나타내다"

— To stand out remarkably in a field (lit. 'to show the tips of horns').

그는 수학에서 두각을 나타냈다.

Neutral/Formal

Easily Confused

현저하다 vs 현격하다

Both start with '현' and mean 'remarkable difference.'

현격하다 (顯隔하다) emphasizes a 'gap' (隔) or distance in level. 현저하다 emphasizes 'conspicuousness.' Use 현격하다 when the gap is so wide it's hard to bridge.

실력 차이가 현격하다 (The skill gap is enormous).

현저하다 vs 현명하다

Similar sound but completely different meaning.

현명하다 (賢明하다) means 'wise.' It has nothing to do with being remarkable or clear.

그는 현명한 선택을 했다 (He made a wise choice).

현저하다 vs 현란하다

Similar sound.

현란하다 (眩爛하다) means 'dazzling' or 'flashy.' It's used for lights or skills that make you dizzy with their brightness.

조명이 현란하다 (The lights are dazzling).

현저하다 vs 현대적이다

Starts with '현'.

현대적이다 means 'modern.'

디자인이 현대적이다 (The design is modern).

현저하다 vs 현실적이다

Starts with '현'.

현실적이다 means 'realistic.'

그 계획은 현실적이다 (That plan is realistic).

Sentence Patterns

[Subject]은/는 [Comparison]보다 현저히 [Adjective]다.

이 컴퓨터는 옛날 것보다 현저히 빠르다.

[Subject]에서 현저한 [Noun]가 나타나다.

실험 결과에서 현저한 변화가 나타났다.

[Subject]에 비해 [Attribute]가 현저하다.

서울은 다른 도시에 비해 인구 밀도가 현저하다.

[Subject]의 [Noun]가 현저하게 [Verb-어/아지다].

기술의 발달로 정보 격차가 현저하게 줄어들고 있다.

[Noun] 간의 현저한 격차를 해소하다.

계층 간의 현저한 격차를 해소하기 위한 정책이 필요하다.

[Subject]은/는 [Object]와/과 현저히 배치되다.

그의 진술은 객관적 증거와 현저히 배치된다.

[Subject]의 [Noun]가 현저함을 입증하다.

이 연구는 두 현상의 상관관계가 현저함을 입증했다.

현저히 불리한 조건에서 [Verb].

그는 현저히 불리한 조건에서 계약을 체결했다.

Word Family

Nouns

현저성 (顯著性) Conspicuousness; the quality of being remarkable.

Adjectives

현저하다 (顯著하다) To be remarkable/obvious.

명확하다

뚜렷하다

분명하다

두드러지다

현격하다

How to Use It

frequency

High in formal written Korean; Medium-low in daily spoken Korean.

Common Mistakes

기분이 현저하게 좋아요. → 기분이 매우 좋아요.
현저하다 is for objective observations, not subjective internal feelings.
이 사과는 현저하게 맛있다. → 이 사과는 정말 맛있다.
Taste is subjective; '현저하다' is used for observable data or differences.
현저한 소리를 들었어요. → 분명한 소리를 들었어요.
Use 분명하다 for the clarity of a sound itself. Use 현저하다 only if comparing sound levels.
두 친구는 현저하게 친해요. → 두 친구는 매우 친해요.
Friendship isn't usually measured in 'remarkable' gaps unless you're comparing it to something else formally.
어제보다 현저하게 1도 올랐어요. → 어제보다 1도 올랐어요.
1 degree is not a 'remarkable' change. Don't use it for small increments.

Tips

Academic Writing

Always use '현저하다' instead of '크다' when describing the results of a study. It adds academic credibility.

Business Meetings

When presenting sales figures, say '실적이 현저히 개선되었습니다' to sound professional and confident.

Adverb Choice

If you are unsure, '현저히' is generally the safer and more 'native-sounding' choice in formal writing.

Pairing

Memorize the phrase '현저한 차이' (remarkable difference) as a single block. It's the most common usage.

News Headlines

When you see '현저' in a headline, look for what is being compared. It's always about a big gap.

TOPIK 53

In the graph description question, use '현저한 증가세를 보였다' for a sharp upward trend.

Objective vs Subjective

Use '현저하다' for things anyone can see (objective). Use '놀랍다' (surprising) for your own feelings (subjective).

Root Recognition

Remember '현' (显) from '현대' (modern/visible) and '저' (著) from '저명하다' (famous/distinct).

Documentaries

Listen for this word in nature documentaries describing climate change or animal population shifts.

Social Issues

It's the perfect word for discussing the '현저한 고령화' (remarkable aging of society).

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of '현' (Hyeon) as 'Hyundai' and '저' (Jeo) as 'Just.' A 'Hyundai' is 'Just' so 'Remarkable' compared to an old horse and carriage. It stands out clearly!

Visual Association

Imagine a bright neon sign (현저하다) in a dark alleyway. The sign is so clear and obvious that you can't miss it. It stands out from the darkness.

Word Web

현저하다 (Remarkable) 차이 (Difference) 변화 (Change) 발전 (Development) 감소 (Decrease) 증가 (Increase) 뚜렷하다 (Clear) 분명하다 (Obvious)

Challenge

Write three sentences comparing your life now to five years ago using '현저히' or '현저한'. For example: '나의 한국어 실력이 5년 전보다 현저히 좋아졌다.'

Word Origin

Derived from Sino-Korean (Hanja). It consists of two characters that emphasize visibility and clarity. It has been used in administrative and scholarly Korean for centuries to denote objective observations.

Original meaning: 顯 (현) means 'to reveal, to manifest, or to be illustrious.' 著 (저) means 'to write, to manifest, or clear.' Together, they mean 'to be clearly revealed.'

Sino-Korean (Hanja-based vocabulary).

Cultural Context

Avoid using this word to describe people's physical disabilities or sensitive personal traits in a way that sounds clinical or dehumanizing.

English speakers often use 'significant' or 'striking.' '현저하다' is the closest equivalent in a formal register.

Economic reports by the Bank of Korea (한국은행) frequently use this word. Legal precedents in the Korean Supreme Court often use '현저한 불공정' to define contract violations. Academic papers in sociology discussing the '현저한 빈부격차' (wealth gap).

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Economic Reports

수출 현저한 감소
물가 현저한 상승
실적 현저한 개선
격차 현저한 확대

Academic Research

현저한 상관관계
현저한 유의미성
현저한 차이를 입증
현저한 변화 관찰

Medical Consultations

증상 현저한 완화
기능 현저한 저하
회복 현저한 속도
현저한 개선 효과

Legal Proceedings

현저히 불공정한 계약
현저한 권리 침해
현저한 과실
현저히 부당한 처우

Environmental Discussion

기온 현저한 상승
오염 현저한 감소
생태계 현저한 변화
파괴 현저한 속도

Conversation Starters

"최근 한국 사회에서 현저하게 변한 점이 무엇이라고 생각하세요?"

"과거와 비교했을 때 기술의 발전이 현저하다고 느끼시나요?"

"두 나라의 문화적 차이가 현저하게 드러나는 부분은 어디일까요?"

"최근 본인의 건강 상태에 현저한 변화가 있었나요?"

"이 제품이 다른 제품보다 현저하게 좋은 이유가 무엇인가요?"

Journal Prompts

지난 1년간 내 삶에서 현저하게 달라진 점 세 가지를 적어보세요.

우리 사회에서 빈부 격차가 현저해지는 원인에 대해 논하시오.

나의 한국어 실력이 처음 시작했을 때보다 현저히 좋아졌다고 느낀 순간은?

기술의 발전이 인간의 삶을 현저하게 편하게 만들었는지, 아니면 어렵게 만들었는지 서술하세요.

두 친구의 성격이 현저하게 다른 점에 대해 묘사해 보세요.

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

Technically you can, but it sounds very strange. It's like saying 'Her beauty is statistically remarkable.' Use '정말 예쁘다' or '눈에 띄게 예쁘다' instead.

They are nearly identical. '현저히' is slightly more common in formal writing and with adjectives (현저히 낮다), while '현저하게' is common with verbs of change (현저하게 변했다).

Yes, it is a very common word in TOPIK II (Level 3-6), especially in the reading and writing sections dealing with graphs and social issues.

No. '현저하다' implies a large, striking difference. For small differences, use '미세하다' (minute) or '약간의 차이' (slight difference).

It is neutral. You can have a '현저한 개선' (remarkable improvement - positive) or a '현저한 하락' (remarkable drop - negative).

You can say '현저하지 않다' or use the word '미미하다' (insignificant).

Yes, if a sound becomes remarkably louder or quieter than before. '소음이 현저히 줄었다.'

Only in formal settings like hospitals, law firms, or corporate offices.

顯 (현 - reveal) and 著 (저 - clear/manifest).

Yes, in a reflective or formal way. '나의 인내심이 현저히 길어졌다' (My patience has become remarkably longer).