This page in your language

فارسی

العربية

Deutsch

Español

Français

日本語

한국어

Português

中文

हिन्दी

Home
Learn
Korean
Vocabulary
재생가능하다

B2 adjective 8 min read

재생가능하다

jaesaengganeunghada

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips 재생가능하다 in 30 Seconds

Explanation 재생가능하다 in your Level:

At the A1 level, '재생가능하다' is a very difficult word. It is much longer and more complex than basic words like '먹다' (to eat) or '가다' (to go). However, you can understand it by looking at its parts. '재' means 'again', '생' means 'life', and '가능하다' means 'can do'. So, it means 'can live again'. Think of it as something that doesn't disappear. For example, the sun comes up every day, so solar energy is '재생가능하다'. At this level, don't worry about using it in complex sentences. Just remember that it is a good word for things like the sun, wind, and water that we use for power. You might see it in simple science books or on posters about saving the earth. It is an adjective, so it describes a thing. If you want to say 'renewable energy', you say '재생가능한 에너지'. It is a formal word, so you will hear it in news or school, but not usually when talking to friends about dinner.

At the A2 level, you are starting to learn more about the world around you in Korean. '재생가능하다' is an important word for talking about nature and the environment. It is an adjective that means 'renewable'. You can use it to describe things that nature gives us back, like wind (바람) or sunlight (햇빛). The most important thing to learn at this level is how to change the word to describe a noun. You change '재생가능하다' to '재생가능한'. For example, '재생가능한 에너지' means 'renewable energy'. You might also hear this word in simple news clips about the environment. Try to remember it as a 'green' word. When you talk about helping the earth, you can use this word. It's a bit long, but if you break it down into 'jae-saeng-gan-eung-hada', it becomes easier to say. It is mostly used in serious or helpful contexts, like explaining why we should use solar power.

As a B1 learner, you should be able to use '재생가능하다' in basic discussions about social issues or the environment. This word is a key part of the 'green energy' vocabulary. You should understand that it specifically refers to resources that are naturally replenished. For example, when comparing coal (석탄) and solar power (태양광), you can say '태양광은 재생가능하지만 석탄은 아닙니다' (Solar power is renewable, but coal is not). You should also be comfortable with the different forms: '재생가능한' (attributive) and '재생가능해요' (polite ending). At this level, you might encounter it in reading passages about technology or global warming. It is often paired with words like '자원' (resource) or '발전' (power generation). Understanding this word helps you participate in intermediate-level conversations about the future of our planet and the choices we make as consumers.

At the B2 level, you are expected to use '재생가능하다' fluently in academic or professional contexts. This is a core word for this level because it deals with abstract and technical concepts. You should understand the nuance between '재생가능하다' (renewable) and '재활용 가능하다' (recyclable). A B2 speaker should be able to explain why a certain energy policy is beneficial using this term. For example, you might discuss '재생가능 에너지의 비중을 높여야 합니다' (We must increase the proportion of renewable energy). You will see this word in complex news articles, economic reports about ESG management, and environmental documentaries. You should also be aware of related terms like '신재생 에너지' (new and renewable energy) which is the official term used by the Korean government. At this level, you should be able to use the word in various grammatical structures, such as '재생가능하기 때문에' (because it is renewable) or '재생가능하다고 생각합니다' (I think it is renewable).

For C1 learners, '재생가능하다' is a foundational term used to build more complex arguments. You should be able to discuss the socio-economic implications of transitioning to a '재생가능한 사회' (renewable society). At this level, the word is not just a vocabulary item but a tool for debating policy, ethics, and global trends. You should be familiar with its usage in high-level discourse, such as the 'RE100' initiative or the 'Paris Agreement' (파리 협정). You should also understand the word's etymological roots in Hanja (再生可能) and how this affects its meaning in different contexts, such as biological regeneration versus environmental resources. You can use it to critique current energy systems or to propose innovative solutions for sustainability. Your usage should be precise, distinguishing it clearly from '지속 가능하다' (sustainable) or '친환경적이다' (eco-friendly) while acknowledging how these concepts intersect in modern Korean thought.

At the C2 level, you possess a native-like command of '재생가능하다'. You can use it with subtle nuances in highly specialized fields like environmental law, energy engineering, or philosophical ethics. You understand that while the word is primarily technical, it also carries a weight of 'restoration' and 'hope' in certain literary or rhetorical contexts. You can analyze how the term '재생가능' has evolved in the Korean public consciousness over the last few decades, moving from a niche scientific term to a central pillar of national policy. You are comfortable using it in formal speeches, academic thesis writing, or high-level negotiations. You can also identify and use its antonyms or related technical jargon like '간헐성' (intermittency - a common problem discussed with renewable energy) fluently. Your understanding of the word is holistic, encompassing its linguistic structure, its scientific definition, and its profound cultural and political significance in contemporary South Korea.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

재생가능하다 in 30 Seconds

재생가능하다 means 'renewable', referring to resources like solar or wind that naturally replenish.
It is a B2-level adjective composed of Hanja roots meaning 'again', 'life', and 'possible'.
Commonly used in environmental contexts, especially with the word 'energy' (재생가능 에너지).
Distinguish it from 'recyclable' (재활용 가능), which applies to waste like plastic.

The Korean word 재생가능하다 (jaesaengganeunghada) is a sophisticated adjective primarily used in environmental, scientific, and economic contexts. At its core, it describes something that can be restored, recovered, or naturally replenished. The word is a compound of three distinct parts: 재 (jae) meaning 'again' or 're-', 생 (saeng) meaning 'life' or 'birth', and 가능하다 (ganeunghada) meaning 'to be possible'. Together, they literally translate to 'the possibility of being born again' or 'capable of regeneration'. In modern discourse, this term is almost synonymous with the English word 'renewable', particularly when discussing energy sources like solar, wind, and hydroelectric power. Unlike finite resources such as coal or petroleum, which are depleted upon use, renewable resources are characterized by their ability to maintain a constant supply through natural cycles. This word is essential for anyone reaching the B2 level of Korean proficiency, as it appears frequently in news reports, academic papers, and discussions regarding climate change and sustainable development.

Etymological Breakdown: The Hanja roots are 再 (재 - again), 生 (생 - life), and 可能 (가능 - possibility). This structure reflects a logical progression: the ability for a resource to come back to life repeatedly.
Environmental Context: It is most commonly paired with '에너지' (energy) to form '재생가능 에너지' (renewable energy), a key term in global environmental policy and the RE100 initiative.

태양광과 풍력은 대표적인 재생가능한 에너지원입니다. (Solar and wind power are representative renewable energy sources.)

Beyond energy, the term can also apply to materials or processes that allow for restoration. For instance, in biological contexts, it might refer to tissues that are 'regenerative'. However, learners should be careful not to confuse it with '재활용 가능하다' (recyclable), which refers to processing waste into new materials. While a 'renewable' resource like sunlight is naturally replaced, a 'recyclable' resource like plastic requires human intervention to be reused. Understanding this distinction is vital for precise communication in Korean. As South Korea moves toward a 'Green New Deal' and carbon neutrality, the frequency of this word in public life has surged, making it a cornerstone of contemporary Korean vocabulary.

지속 가능한 발전을 위해서는 재생가능한 자원의 활용이 필수적입니다. (The use of renewable resources is essential for sustainable development.)

Using 재생가능하다 correctly requires an understanding of Korean adjective conjugation. As a descriptive verb (adjective), it functions similarly to '예쁘다' or '크다'. When it modifies a noun directly, it takes the form 재생가능한 (jaesaengganeunghan). For example, '재생가능한 에너지' (renewable energy). When it ends a sentence in a polite formal manner, it becomes 재생가능합니다 (jaesaengganeunghamnida), and in a polite informal manner, it is 재생가능해요 (jaesaengganeunghae-yo).

Attributive Form: 재생가능한 + Noun (e.g., 재생가능한 자원 - renewable resources). This is the most common way you will see the word in titles and technical descriptions.
Predicative Form: Subject + 이/가 + 재생가능하다. (e.g., 이 에너지는 재생가능하다 - This energy is renewable). This form is used to make a statement about the properties of a subject.

우리 회사는 100% 재생가능한 전력만을 사용하기로 약속했습니다. (Our company has promised to use only 100% renewable electricity.)

One interesting aspect of this word is its flexibility in formal writing. In reports, you might see it used as a noun phrase '재생 가능' (renewable possibility) without the '하다' suffix. For instance, '재생 가능 에너지' is often written with a space, treating '재생 가능' as a compound noun modifying '에너지'. However, grammatically, '재생가능하다' as an adjective is the standard way to describe the state of being renewable. When discussing the future, you might use the form 재생가능해질 것이다 (will become renewable) to indicate a transition in technology or policy. For example, '미래에는 모든 교통수단이 재생가능한 동력을 사용할 것입니다' (In the future, all means of transportation will use renewable power).

이 방식이 정말로 재생가능한지 다시 한번 검토해 봅시다. (Let's review once more whether this method is truly renewable.)

In South Korea, 재생가능하다 is a word that has moved from the laboratory and academic journals into the living room. You will hear it most frequently on the 8 o'clock news during segments on the environment or the economy. With the global push for the 'RE100' (Renewable Electricity 100%) initiative, Korean conglomerates like Samsung and SK are frequently in the headlines discussing their transition to renewable energy. Consequently, terms like '재생가능 에너지로의 전환' (transition to renewable energy) have become common parlance in business circles.

News & Media: Reporters often use this word when discussing government policies aimed at reducing carbon emissions or increasing the share of solar and wind power in the national grid.
Education: Students learn this word early in science and social studies classes when studying the difference between fossil fuels and clean energy.

정부는 2050년까지 재생가능한 에너지 비중을 대폭 확대할 계획입니다. (The government plans to significantly expand the share of renewable energy by 2050.)

You might also encounter this word in corporate social responsibility (CSR) reports. Many Korean companies now emphasize their commitment to '재생가능한 경영' (renewable management) or '재생가능한 소재' (renewable materials) in their packaging. If you visit an eco-friendly exhibition or a science museum in Seoul, such as the Gwacheon National Science Museum, you will see '재생가능하다' plastered across exhibits explaining how solar panels and wind turbines function. In everyday conversation, while it might be too formal for a casual chat about the weather, it is perfectly appropriate when discussing social issues or your personal values regarding the environment with friends or colleagues.

제주도는 재생가능한 에너지 자립을 목표로 하고 있습니다. (Jeju Island aims for renewable energy independence.)

The most frequent mistake learners make with 재생가능하다 is confusing it with 재활용 가능하다 (jaehwallyong ganeunghada), which means 'recyclable'. While both words relate to environmental friendliness, they describe fundamentally different processes. 'Renewable' (재생가능) refers to resources that replenish themselves naturally, like wind or water. 'Recyclable' (재활용 가능) refers to man-made waste like plastic bottles or paper that can be processed and used again. Calling solar energy '재활용 가능하다' would sound very strange to a native speaker.

Confusion with '지속 가능하다': Another common mix-up is with '지속 가능하다' (sustainable). While related, 'sustainable' is a broader term encompassing economic and social stability, whereas 'renewable' is specifically about the replenishment of physical resources.
Incorrect Particles: Learners often forget that '재생가능하다' is an adjective. They might try to use it as a verb with an object, which is incorrect. You cannot 'renewable something'; something 'is renewable'.

X 플라스틱은 재생가능한 자원입니다. (Plastic is a renewable resource.)
O 플라스틱은 재활용 가능한 자원입니다. (Plastic is a recyclable resource.)

Another subtle mistake involves the spacing. While '재생가능하다' is a single adjective, in many official documents, you will see '재생 가능 에너지'. Here, '재생 가능' functions as a noun phrase. Learners often struggle with whether to attach '하다' or not. A good rule of thumb: if you are describing a noun (e.g., 'renewable energy'), use '재생가능한'. If you are stating a fact about a subject (e.g., 'This is renewable'), use '재생가능하다'. Avoid using '다시 생길 수 있다' as a direct substitute in formal contexts; while it means 'can be born again', it lacks the technical precision of '재생가능하다'.

X 바람은 재활용 가능해요. (Wind is recyclable.)
O 바람은 재생가능해요. (Wind is renewable.)

When discussing topics related to 재생가능하다, you will encounter several related terms that offer different nuances. Choosing the right one depends on whether you are talking about the environment, business sustainability, or the physical process of recycling. Understanding these synonyms and near-synonyms will help you sound more natural and precise in Korean.

지속 가능하다 (jisok ganeunghada): Meaning 'sustainable'. This is the most common companion to '재생가능하다'. While 'renewable' focuses on the resource itself, 'sustainable' focuses on the ability to maintain a process or system indefinitely without harm. Example: '지속 가능한 개발' (sustainable development).
친환경적이다 (chinhwangyeongjeogida): Meaning 'eco-friendly' or 'environmentally friendly'. This is a broader, more general term. Renewable energy is always eco-friendly, but not everything eco-friendly is necessarily renewable (like a reusable bag).
고갈되지 않다 (gogaldoeji anta): Meaning 'to not be depleted'. This is a more descriptive way to explain the concept of being renewable. You might use this in a speech to emphasize that a resource will never run out.

우리는 지속 가능한 미래를 위해 재생가능한 에너지를 선택해야 합니다. (We must choose renewable energy for a sustainable future.)

In technical fields, you might also hear 신재생 (sinjaesaeng), which is a combination of '신' (new) and '재생' (renewable). In South Korea, the government often uses the term '신재생 에너지' to refer to both 'new energy' (like hydrogen fuel cells) and 'renewable energy' (like solar and wind). If you are reading official policy documents, '신재생' is the term you will see most often. Conversely, if you want to express the opposite of renewable, you would use 비재생 (bijaisaeng) or 고갈성 (gogalseong), meaning 'non-renewable' or 'depletable'. Knowing these pairings allows you to construct balanced arguments and understand the full spectrum of environmental terminology in Korean.

석탄은 비재생 에너지원이지만, 태양광은 무한한 재생가능 자원입니다. (Coal is a non-renewable energy source, but solar power is an infinite renewable resource.)

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

The 'saeng' (生) in this word is the same 'saeng' in 'saeng-il' (birthday) and 'seonsaengnim' (teacher). It represents life and growth.

Pronunciation Guide

UK t͡ɕɛ.sʰɛŋ.ɡa.nɯŋ.ɦa.da

US t͡ɕe.sɛŋ.ɡa.nɯŋ.ha.da

Primary stress is on the first syllable of each block: JAE-saeng GAN-eung-hada.

Rhymes With

가능하다 (ganeunghada) 불가능하다 (bulganeunghada) 단순하다 (dansunhada) 깨끗하다 (kkaekkeuthada) 정확하다 (jeonghwakhada) 유명하다 (yumyeonghada) 친절하다 (chinjeolhada) 행복하다 (haengbokhada)

Common Errors

Pronouncing 'jae' as 'jay' (English diphthong).
Dropping the 'h' in 'hada'.
Confusing 'ng' with 'n' in 'saeng'.
Making the 'g' in 'ganeung' too aspirated (it should be soft).
Saying 'saeng' too short; it needs a clear nasal resonance.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 4/5

Long Sino-Korean word, requires knowledge of Hanja-based compounds.

Writing 4/5

Correct spelling of 'ganeung' and 'saeng' is important.

Speaking 3/5

Rhythmic once practiced, but long for beginners.

Listening 3/5

Clear pronunciation usually, but can be fast in news.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

가능하다 (possible) 다시 (again) 에너지 (energy) 환경 (environment) 자원 (resource)

Learn Next

지속 가능하다 (sustainable) 탄소 중립 (carbon neutral) 기후 변화 (climate change) 발전소 (power plant) 효율성 (efficiency)

Advanced

간헐성 (intermittency) 에너지 저장 시스템 (ESS) 그리드 패리티 (grid parity) 광전 효과 (photoelectric effect) 바이오매스 (biomass)

Grammar to Know

Adjective to Noun Modification (-ㄴ/은)

재생가능하다 -> 재생가능한 에너지

Polite Informal Conjugation (-해요)

재생가능하다 -> 재생가능해요

Formal Conjugation (-습니다)

재생가능하다 -> 재생가능합니다

Reason/Cause (-기 때문에)

재생가능하기 때문에 환경에 좋습니다.

Conditional (-면)

에너지가 재생가능하면 더 좋습니다.

Examples by Level

이 에너지는 재생가능해요.

This energy is renewable.

Simple polite ending '-해요'.

태양은 재생가능한 자원입니다.

The sun is a renewable resource.

Attributive form '-한' modifying '자원'.

바람도 재생가능해요.

Wind is also renewable.

The particle '-도' means 'also'.

우리는 재생가능한 에너지가 필요해요.

We need renewable energy.

Object marker '-가' used with '필요하다'.

물은 재생가능한 힘이에요.

Water is a renewable power.

Noun ending '-이에요'.

이것은 재생가능합니까?

Is this renewable?

Formal question ending '-습니까?'.

재생가능한 에너지는 좋아요.

Renewable energy is good.

Topic marker '-는' used with the subject.

나무는 재생가능할 수 있어요.

Trees can be renewable.

Possibility pattern '-ㄹ 수 있다'.

정부는 재생가능한 에너지를 사용해요.

The government uses renewable energy.

Subject '정부' with object '에너지'.

재생가능한 자원은 환경에 좋아요.

Renewable resources are good for the environment.

Dative particle '-에' used for 'for the environment'.

이 배터리는 재생가능한가요?

Is this battery renewable?

Polite question ending '-ㄴ가요?'.

우리는 재생가능한 세상을 만들어요.

We are making a renewable world.

Present tense verb '만들어요'.

석유는 재생가능하지 않아요.

Oil is not renewable.

Negation pattern '-지 않아요'.

재생가능한 에너지가 더 비싸요?

Is renewable energy more expensive?

Comparative '더' meaning 'more'.

많은 나라가 재생가능한 발전을 해요.

Many countries do renewable power generation.

Plurality implied by '많은 나라'.

미래에는 재생가능한 것이 중요해요.

In the future, renewable things are important.

Time particle '-에는'.

화석 연료 대신 재생가능한 에너지를 써야 합니다.

We should use renewable energy instead of fossil fuels.

'-대신' means 'instead of'; '-어야 합니다' means 'should/must'.

이 프로젝트는 재생가능한 방식으로 진행됩니다.

This project is being conducted in a renewable way.

Adverbial form '-방식으로' meaning 'in a way'.

재생가능한 에너지는 탄소 배출을 줄입니다.

Renewable energy reduces carbon emissions.

Transitive verb '줄입니다' (reduces).

기술이 발전하면 재생가능한 에너지가 더 싸질 거예요.

If technology develops, renewable energy will become cheaper.

Conditional '-면' and future '-ㄹ 거예요'.

한국도 재생가능한 에너지 비중을 높이고 있어요.

Korea is also increasing the share of renewable energy.

Continuous form '-고 있어요'.

재생가능한 자원을 찾는 것이 우리의 과제입니다.

Finding renewable resources is our task.

Gerund '-는 것' used as a subject.

이 건물은 재생가능한 전기로 운영됩니다.

This building is operated by renewable electricity.

Passive form '운영됩니다' (is operated).

어떤 에너지가 가장 재생가능한가요?

Which energy is the most renewable?

Superlative '가장' (most).

재생가능한 에너지로의 전환은 선택이 아닌 필수입니다.

The transition to renewable energy is a necessity, not a choice.

'A-이/가 아닌 B' pattern (not A but B).

기업들은 재생가능한 경영 체제를 도입하고 있습니다.

Companies are introducing renewable management systems.

Compound noun '경영 체제' (management system).

재생가능한 자원의 효율적인 관리가 시급합니다.

Efficient management of renewable resources is urgent.

Adjective '시급하다' (to be urgent).

태양광은 무한히 재생가능한 청정 에너지원입니다.

Solar power is an infinitely renewable clean energy source.

Adverb '무한히' (infinitely).

재생가능한 에너지는 지역 경제 활성화에도 기여합니다.

Renewable energy also contributes to the revitalization of the local economy.

Verb '기여하다' (contribute) takes the particle '-에'.

그 나라는 재생가능한 에너지 자립률이 매우 높습니다.

That country has a very high renewable energy self-sufficiency rate.

Complex noun '자립률' (self-sufficiency rate).

재생가능한 소재를 사용한 제품이 인기를 끌고 있습니다.

Products using renewable materials are gaining popularity.

Participial phrase '사용한' modifying '제품'.

우리는 재생가능한 미래를 위해 협력해야 합니다.

We must cooperate for a renewable future.

'-기 위해' (for the purpose of).

재생가능한 에너지의 간헐성 문제를 해결하는 것이 관건입니다.

Solving the intermittency problem of renewable energy is key.

Technical term '간헐성' (intermittency).

재생가능한 발전을 위한 인프라 구축에 막대한 예산이 투입되었습니다.

A massive budget was invested in building infrastructure for renewable power generation.

Passive '투입되었습니다' (was invested/injected).

이 논문은 재생가능한 자원의 경제적 타당성을 분석하고 있습니다.

This paper analyzes the economic feasibility of renewable resources.

Technical term '타당성' (feasibility).

재생가능한 에너지로의 급격한 전환은 전력망의 불안정을 초래할 수 있습니다.

A rapid transition to renewable energy can cause instability in the power grid.

Verb '초래하다' (to cause/bring about negative results).

시민들은 재생가능한 에너지 정책에 대해 적극적인 지지를 보냈습니다.

Citizens sent active support for the renewable energy policy.

'-에 대해' (about/regarding).

재생가능한 사회로 나아가기 위해서는 가치관의 변화가 선행되어야 합니다.

In order to move toward a renewable society, a change in values must come first.

Passive '선행되어야' (must be preceded).

기업의 재생가능한 에너지 사용은 이제 선택이 아닌 생존의 문제입니다.

A company's use of renewable energy is now a matter of survival, not choice.

Emphasis '이제' (now/from now on).

재생가능한 자원의 한계를 극복하기 위한 혁신적인 기술이 필요합니다.

Innovative technologies are needed to overcome the limitations of renewable resources.

'-기 위한' (for/intended for).

재생가능한 에너지원의 확충은 국가 안보와도 직결되는 중대한 사안입니다.

Expanding renewable energy sources is a critical issue directly linked to national security.

'-와 직결되는' (directly linked to).

생태계의 복원력과 재생가능한 순환 구조를 이해하는 것이 생태학의 핵심입니다.

Understanding the resilience of ecosystems and renewable circular structures is the core of ecology.

Noun phrase '순환 구조' (circular structure).

재생가능한 에너지 기술의 특허권 분쟁이 국제적으로 격화되고 있습니다.

Patent disputes over renewable energy technology are intensifying internationally.

Verb '격화되다' (to intensify/escalate).

탄소 국경세 도입은 재생가능한 에너지로의 이행을 가속화할 전망입니다.

The introduction of a carbon border tax is expected to accelerate the transition to renewable energy.

Noun '전망' (prospect/outlook).

재생가능한 자원의 상업적 이용은 윤리적 책임과 병행되어야 합니다.

The commercial use of renewable resources must be paralleled with ethical responsibility.

'-와 병행되어야' (must be paralleled/done together).

지정학적 리스크를 완화하기 위해 재생가능한 에너지 자립이 강조되고 있습니다.

To mitigate geopolitical risks, renewable energy independence is being emphasized.

Technical term '지정학적' (geopolitical).

재생가능한 에너지의 저장 장치 기술은 에너지 패러다임의 변화를 몰고 올 것입니다.

Energy storage technology for renewable energy will bring about a change in the energy paradigm.

Idiom '몰고 오다' (to bring about/cause).

인류는 재생가능한 발전을 통해 지구와의 공존을 모색해야만 합니다.

Humanity must seek coexistence with the Earth through renewable development.

'-해야만 합니다' (must/absolutely have to).

Synonyms

지속 가능한 되풀이할 수 있는

Antonyms

고갈되는 비재생의

Common Collocations

재생가능 에너지

재생가능한 자원

재생가능한 원료

재생가능한 전력

재생가능한 소재

재생가능한 동력

재생가능한 순환

재생가능한 경제

재생가능한 발전

재생가능한 생태계

Common Phrases

재생가능 에너지 비중

— The proportion of renewable energy in a total energy mix.

우리나라는 재생가능 에너지 비중이 낮습니다.

재생가능 자원 고갈

— The depletion of renewable resources (ironic or technical).

재생가능 자원도 고갈되지 않게 관리해야 합니다.

재생가능 에너지원

— Sources of renewable energy (sun, wind, etc.).

다양한 재생가능 에너지원을 개발해야 합니다.

재생가능한 미래

— A future based on renewable resources and sustainability.

재생가능한 미래를 위해 노력합시다.

재생가능 전력 구매

— Purchasing electricity generated from renewable sources.

기업들이 재생가능 전력 구매에 나서고 있습니다.

재생가능한 경영

— Business management that focuses on renewal and sustainability.

재생가능한 경영은 장기적인 이익을 가져옵니다.

재생가능한 기술

— Technologies that enable the use of renewable resources.

재생가능한 기술의 혁신이 필요합니다.

재생가능한 개발

— Development that uses renewable resources.

지역의 재생가능한 개발을 지원합니다.

재생가능한 사회

— A society that functions on renewable systems.

우리는 재생가능한 사회로 나아가야 합니다.

재생가능한 공급망

— A supply chain utilizing renewable energy and materials.

공급망 전체를 재생가능하게 바꿔야 합니다.

Often Confused With

재생가능하다 vs 재활용 가능하다

Means 'recyclable'. Used for trash like plastic. Renewable is for natural sources.

재생가능하다 vs 지속 가능하다

Means 'sustainable'. A broader term for systems that can last forever.

재생가능하다 vs 다시 사용하다

Means 'to reuse'. A simple verb for using something again.

Idioms & Expressions

"마르지 않는 샘물"

— A spring that never dries up; used metaphorically for renewable energy.

태양광은 인류에게 마르지 않는 샘물과 같습니다.

Literary

"다시 태어나다"

— To be born again; related to the Hanja roots of '재생'.

폐식용유가 바이오 연료로 다시 태어났습니다.

Neutral

"자연의 섭리"

— The providence of nature; often cited as the reason for renewability.

재생가능한 에너지는 자연의 섭리를 따르는 것입니다.

Formal

"무에서 유를 창조하다"

— To create something out of nothing; used for innovative energy tech.

재생가능 에너지는 무에서 유를 창조하는 기술입니다.

Neutral

"바닥이 나다"

— To run out; used as the opposite of renewable resources.

석유가 바닥이 나기 전에 재생가능 에너지를 찾아야 합니다.

Informal

"생명의 원천"

— The source of life; often used for water or sun.

태양은 재생가능한 생명의 원천입니다.

Literary

"길을 열다"

— To open a path; used for pioneering renewable technology.

이 연구는 재생가능 에너지의 새로운 길을 열었습니다.

Neutral

"손을 잡다"

— To join hands; used for cooperation in renewable projects.

두 나라가 재생가능 에너지 개발을 위해 손을 잡았습니다.

Neutral

"발을 맞추다"

— To keep pace; used for following global renewable trends.

우리도 세계적 흐름에 발을 맞춰 재생가능 에너지를 늘려야 합니다.

Neutral

"뿌리를 내리다"

— To take root; used for the establishment of renewable policies.

재생가능 에너지 정책이 우리 사회에 뿌리를 내려야 합니다.

Neutral

Easily Confused

재생가능하다 vs 재생하다

Looks similar.

'재생하다' is a verb meaning 'to play' (a video) or 'to regenerate'. '재생가능하다' is the adjective for 'renewable'.

영상을 재생하다 (Play the video) vs 재생가능한 에너지 (Renewable energy).

재생가능하다 vs 복구하다

Both involve 'again'.

'복구하다' means 'to restore' something broken. '재생가능하다' means a resource naturally replenishes.

파일을 복구하다 (Restore files) vs 재생가능한 자원 (Renewable resource).

재생가능하다 vs 연장하다

Both involve making something last.

'연장하다' means 'to extend' a deadline or length. '재생가능하다' is about natural renewal.

마감 기한을 연장하다 (Extend deadline).

재생가능하다 vs 교체하다

Both involve replacement.

'교체하다' means 'to replace' one thing with another. '재생가능하다' means the resource replaces itself.

부품을 교체하다 (Replace parts).

재생가능하다 vs 순환하다

Both relate to cycles.

'순환하다' means 'to circulate'. It is a verb describing the movement, while '재생가능하다' describes the property of the resource.

혈액이 순환하다 (Blood circulates).

Sentence Patterns

이것은 재생가능해요.

햇빛은 재생가능해요.

재생가능한 Noun은 좋아요.

재생가능한 에너지는 좋아요.

Noun 대신 재생가능한 Noun을 써요.

석탄 대신 재생가능한 에너지를 써요.

Noun-이/가 재생가능하다고 생각해요.

태양광이 재생가능하다고 생각해요.

재생가능한 Noun의 확보가 시급합니다.

재생가능한 에너지의 확보가 시급합니다.

재생가능한 Noun으로의 이행이 가속화되고 있습니다.

재생가능한 에너지로의 이행이 가속화되고 있습니다.

재생가능하기 때문에...

재생가능하기 때문에 무한합니다.

재생가능한지 확인해 보세요.

이것이 재생가능한지 확인해 보세요.

Word Family

Nouns

재생 (jaesaeng) - regeneration/rebirth

가능성 (ganeungseong) - possibility

재생력 (jaesaengnyeok) - regenerative power

Verbs

재생하다 (jaesaenghada) - to regenerate/play back

재생되다 (jaesaengdoeda) - to be regenerated

Adjectives

재생가능하다 (jaesaengganeunghada) - renewable

가능하다 (ganeunghada) - possible

재활용 (jaehwallyong) - recycling

지속가능성 (jisokganeungseong) - sustainability

친환경 (chinhwangyeong) - eco-friendly

에너지 (eneoji) - energy

자원 (jawon) - resource

How to Use It

frequency

Common in media, education, and business; rare in daily casual speech.

Common Mistakes

재생가능한 플라스틱 → 재활용 가능한 플라스틱
Plastic is not naturally replenished; it must be recycled by humans.
재생가능하다 에너지를 사용해요. → 재생가능한 에너지를 사용해요.
You must use the attributive form (-ㄴ) to modify a noun.
바람은 재활용 가능해요. → 바람은 재생가능해요.
Natural forces like wind are renewable, not recyclable.
재생가능 에너지는 고갈돼요. → 재생가능 에너지는 고갈되지 않아요.
The whole point of renewable energy is that it does not run out.
재생가능하다가 중요해요. → 재생가능한 것이 중요해요.
You need a noun form (재생가능한 것 or 재생가능성) to be the subject.

Tips

Pair with '에너지'

The most common usage is '재생가능 에너지'. Memorize this as a single block of meaning to use it quickly in conversation.

Check the Spacing

Technically, '재생가능하다' is one word, but '재생 가능 에너지' is often written with a space. Both are generally accepted in modern writing.

Renewable vs Recyclable

Always remember: Sun = 재생가능 (Renewable). Plastic bottle = 재활용 (Recyclable). Don't swap them!

Learn Hanja

Learning 'Jae' (再 - again) and 'Saeng' (生 - life) will help you understand dozens of other Korean words like '재개발' and '생물'.

Slow Down

Because it's a six-syllable word, take your time. JAE-SAENG-GAN-EUNG-HA-DA. Clarity is better than speed.

Context Clues

If you hear '환경' (environment) or '태양' (sun), expect to hear '재생가능' shortly after.

Formal Endings

In reports, use '재생가능함' or '재생가능함.' as a bullet point to sound concise and professional.

Global Issues

This is a great word for the TOPIK exam, especially for the writing section (Task 54) about global warming or the environment.

Re-Life-Able

Think of it as 'Re-Life-Able'. Re (Jae) + Life (Saeng) + Able (Ganeung). It's a perfect literal translation.

Impress Others

Using this word correctly in a discussion about the news will instantly make your Korean sound more advanced.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

JAE (Again) + SAENG (Life) + GANEUNG (Possible) + HADA (To be). It is POSSIBLE for LIFE to happen AGAIN.

Visual Association

Imagine a green circular arrow (the symbol for recycling/renewal) with a sun inside it.

Word Web

Sunlight Wind Water Again Life Possible Green Clean

Challenge

Try to find three things in your house that are '재생가능하다' or use '재생가능한' energy.

Word Origin

Derived from Sino-Korean roots (Hanja).

Original meaning: The ability for something to be born again or restored.

Sino-Korean (Chinese character based).

Cultural Context

No specific sensitivities, but be careful not to greenwash (using the term for things that aren't actually renewable).

Directly equivalent to 'renewable', but in English, we often just say 'renewables' as a noun, whereas Korean usually adds 'energy' or 'resource'.

RE100 (Global initiative) The Paris Agreement South Korea's 2050 Carbon Neutrality Goal

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Environmental News

재생가능 에너지 비중 확대
탄소 배출 감소
기후 위기 대응
친환경 정책

Science Class

무한한 자원
에너지 전환
태양광 및 풍력
자연의 순환

Business Meetings

ESG 경영 도입
RE100 달성
재생가능 전력 사용
기업 이미지 개선

Government Policy

신재생 에너지 보급
보조금 지원
인프라 구축
에너지 자립률

Shopping/Consumerism

재생가능 소재 사용
친환경 제품
지속 가능한 소비
가치 소비

Conversation Starters

"재생가능한 에너지에 대해 어떻게 생각하세요?"

"우리나라의 재생가능 에너지 비중이 어느 정도일까요?"

"재생가능한 소재로 만든 옷을 입어본 적 있나요?"

"태양광 발전이 정말 재생가능하다고 보시나요?"

"재생가능한 미래를 위해 우리가 할 수 있는 일은 무엇일까요?"

Journal Prompts

내가 일상생활에서 사용하는 재생가능한 것들에 대해 써보세요.

재생가능한 에너지로만 돌아가는 도시에 산다면 어떨지 상상해 보세요.

왜 많은 기업들이 재생가능한 에너지를 사용하려고 하는지 논해 보세요.

재생가능한 자원과 비재생 자원의 차이점을 설명해 보세요.

내가 생각하는 '재생가능한 삶'이란 무엇인지 적어보세요.

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

No, while energy is the most common context, it can also refer to materials (like wood) or biological processes (like tissue regeneration). However, in 90% of cases you see it, it will be about energy or natural resources.

'재생가능' means 'renewable'. '신재생' is a Korean legal/technical term that combines 'New Energy' (hydrogen, fuel cells) and 'Renewable Energy'. You use '신재생' in official government contexts.

No, you should use '재활용 가능하다' for plastic. '재생가능하다' implies the resource comes back naturally, whereas recycling requires a factory process to turn waste into something new.

Yes, it is quite formal. In casual speech, you might say '다시 쓸 수 있는' (can use again) or '계속 나오는' (keeps coming out). But in any serious discussion, '재생가능하다' is the correct term.

You can say '비재생' (non-renewable) or '고갈성' (depletable). For example, '비재생 에너지' (non-renewable energy).

Yes. 再 (Jae - again), 生 (Saeng - life/birth), 可能 (Ganeung - possibility). It literally means 'possibility of being born again'.

Yes, you can use '재생 가능' as a noun phrase, often followed by another noun like '에너지'. For example, '재생 가능 에너지'.

Very much so. With the rise of ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) management, companies frequently talk about using '재생가능한 전력' to attract investors.

No, it's a very standard, albeit long, word. Koreans are very used to Hanja-based compounds of this length.

It is typically considered a B2 level word because it is a technical term used in social and scientific discussions.