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A2 noun #8,500 most common 9 min read

사표

sapyo Top 8,500

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips 사표 in 30 Seconds

Explanation 사표 in your Level:

At the A1 level, you only need to know that '사표' means a 'resignation letter.' It is a noun used when someone wants to stop working at their company. You might see it in simple stories or dramas. At this level, just remember the basic phrase '사표를 내다' which means 'to give/hand in the resignation letter.' You don't need to worry about the complex workplace rules yet, just that it's the paper you use to say goodbye to a job. It is a very useful word because many Korean stories involve office workers. Even if you aren't working in Korea, knowing this word helps you understand what is happening when a character in a drama looks sad and holds a white envelope. Think of it as the 'I quit' paper.

At the A2 level, you should understand that '사표' is a formal noun used specifically in office environments. You should be able to distinguish it from the verb '그만두다' (to quit). While '그만두다' is a general action, '사표' is the physical document. You should practice using it with markers like '사표를' and verbs like '쓰다' (to write) or '내다' (to submit). You might also start to notice it in sentences about reasons for quitting, such as '힘들어서 사표를 냈어요' (I submitted my resignation because it was hard). Understanding this word helps you talk about your past work experiences or future plans in a more specific way than just using basic verbs. It's an important part of 'office Korean' vocabulary.

At the B1 level, you should be aware of the nuances between '사표' and '사직서.' You should know that '사표' is often used in more emotional or narrative contexts, whereas '사직서' is the technical term you would see on an HR website. You should also be comfortable with collocations like '사표를 품다' (to carry a resignation in one's heart/pocket), which describes a common sentiment among Korean workers. At this level, you can use '사표' to discuss workplace stress, career changes, and social issues in Korea. You should also understand the passive form '사표가 수리되다' (resignation is accepted) and how it fits into the process of leaving a job in a hierarchical society. This word becomes a gateway to discussing Korean work culture more deeply.

At the B2 level, you can use '사표' to discuss broader social trends, such as the 'resignation boom' among younger generations. You should understand the historical and Hanja roots (辭表) and how the term has evolved. You should be able to use the word in complex sentences involving reported speech or hypothetical situations, like '사표를 던지고 싶을 때가 한두 번이 아니었다' (There wasn't just one or two times I wanted to throw my resignation). You should also be familiar with related terms like '명예퇴직' (voluntary/honorable retirement) and how '사표' fits into those larger administrative processes. At this level, you are expected to understand the emotional and social implications of the word, including the 'push and pull' between the employee and the company during the resignation process.

At the C1 level, you should have a nuanced understanding of '사표' in legal, political, and literary contexts. You should recognize it when it's used metaphorically in literature to signify a break from any long-term commitment or duty. You should be able to discuss the legal implications of '사표 수리' and how it relates to labor laws in Korea. You should also be able to analyze news reports where high-ranking officials use '사표' as a political tool (e.g., a 'protest resignation'). Your vocabulary should include idiomatic expressions and the ability to switch between '사표', '사직서', and '퇴직' seamlessly depending on the register and the specific nuance required. You understand that '사표' is not just a document, but a symbol of professional agency and sometimes, systemic failure.

At the C2 level, you possess a native-like grasp of '사표,' including its historical usage in the Joseon dynasty where scholars and officials would submit '사표' to the King. You can appreciate the subtle difference in tone between a modern '사표' and the classical '사직 상소.' You can use the word to write sophisticated essays on labor economics, corporate sociology, or modern literature. You understand the psychological weight of the '사표' in the collective consciousness of the Korean workforce and can navigate the most formal and high-stakes professional environments where the word is used. You can detect irony, sarcasm, or deep emotional subtext when the word is used in contemporary media, and you can explain these nuances to others with precision and cultural depth.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

사표 in 30 Seconds

사표 is the Korean word for a formal resignation letter submitted to an employer.
It is a noun commonly paired with verbs like 내다 (submit) and 쓰다 (write).
While similar to 사직서, 사표 is more common in daily speech and media.
It carries significant cultural weight in Korea, symbolizing a major life transition.

The Korean word 사표 (辭表) is a noun that literally translates to a 'resignation table' or 'resignation document.' In a practical sense, it refers to the formal written notice an employee submits to their employer to signal their intent to leave their position. While the term is often used interchangeably with 사직서, 사표 carries a slightly more dramatic or personal weight in everyday conversation, often appearing in literature, television dramas, and emotional workplace discussions. Understanding this word requires looking beyond the paper itself and into the hierarchical structure of Korean corporate life, where leaving a job is rarely just a career move but a significant social transition.

Etymological Breakdown: The Hanja character 辭 (사) means to decline, part with, or words, while 表 (표) means a surface, a table, or a formal document shown to a superior. Historically, this was a term used by officials to resign from government posts.
Cultural Weight: In Korea, the act of submitting a 사표 is often seen as a final stand against workplace pressure or a pursuit of new beginnings. It is the physical manifestation of the phrase 'I quit.'

가슴속에 항상 사표를 품고 다녀요. (I always carry a resignation letter in my heart.)

A common idiom among stressed Korean office workers.

In a professional setting, you wouldn't just say 'I'm quitting'; you would 'submit your 사표.' The word is used when the process is formal. If you are working a part-time job (alba), you might just say you are 'stopping' (그만두다), but in a 'hoesa' (company) environment, 사표 is the standard noun for that bridge-burning or bridge-building document. It signifies a professional conclusion to a contractual relationship. Interestingly, the phrase '사표를 던지다' (to throw one's resignation) is a very common expression used when someone quits impulsively or out of anger, reflecting the high-stress environment of many Korean workplaces.

그는 오늘 부장님 책상 위에 사표를 올려놓았다. (He placed his resignation letter on the department head's desk today.)

Formal vs. Informal: In official HR documents, you will likely see the term 사직서 (辭職書). However, in conversation, news headlines, and dramas, 사표 is the preferred, punchier term.

The word also appears in the context of '사표를 수리하다' (to accept/process a resignation). This is a formal administrative action. In many Korean companies, a resignation isn't effective the moment it's handed over; it must be 'accepted' by the hierarchy, a process that can involve exit interviews or attempts by management to persuade the employee to stay (회유). Therefore, the 사표 is the starting point of a complex social negotiation. It is a word heavy with the themes of loyalty, exhaustion, and the desire for freedom.

Using 사표 correctly involves pairing it with specific verbs that describe the movement of the document from the employee to the employer. Because it is a physical object (even if submitted digitally nowadays), verbs of giving, submitting, and receiving are most common. However, because of its symbolic weight, it also pairs with more aggressive verbs in figurative contexts.

Common Verb Pairings: 1. 사표를 내다 (To hand in/submit a resignation - Neutral/Common) 2. 사표를 제출하다 (To formally submit a resignation - Formal) 3. 사표를 던지다 (To throw a resignation - Dramatic/Angry) 4. 사표를 수리하다 (To accept/process a resignation - Administrative)

사장님, 저 여기 사표 가져왔습니다. (Boss, I brought my resignation letter here.)

When constructing sentences, remember that 사표 is the object. In a sentence like 'I decided to resign,' you wouldn't just use 사표; you would say '사표를 내기로 했어요' (I decided to submit my resignation). If you want to emphasize the emotional state of carrying the document around, you use the verb '품다' (to harbor/carry in one's bosom). This reflects the old days when people carried physical papers in their inner suit pockets.

회사가 사표를 수리하지 않아서 아직 퇴사를 못 했어요. (The company hasn't accepted my resignation, so I haven't been able to leave yet.)

In more advanced usage, 사표 can be used in passive constructions or in describing others. For instance, '사표가 반려되다' means the resignation was rejected or returned to the employee, often because the company wants them to stay. This reveals the 'push and pull' of Korean labor relations. You might also hear '사표를 품에 안고 살다,' which describes the modern condition of many employees who are unhappy but cannot yet afford to quit, so they keep their 'resignation' mentally ready at all times.

그는 화가 나서 사표를 던지고 회사를 나갔다. (He got angry, threw his resignation, and walked out of the company.)

Finally, when talking about the *reason* for the resignation, you use the construction '...라는 이유로 사표를 내다.' For example: '건강상의 이유로 사표를 냈습니다' (I submitted my resignation for health reasons). This structure is essential for professional communication in Korea.

You will encounter the word 사표 in three main arenas: the actual workplace, news/media, and entertainment. In the actual workplace, it is the 'nuclear option.' It is not a word tossed around lightly in front of bosses unless you mean it. However, among colleagues of the same rank (dong-gi), it is a frequent topic of venting.

In K-Dramas: The 'resignation scene' is a staple. Usually, the protagonist reaches their breaking point with a corrupt or mean boss and slams a white envelope labeled 사표 or 사직서 on the table. This is the moment of ultimate catharsis for the viewers.

뉴스: '정치인 A씨, 의혹 속에 사표 제출' (News: 'Politician A submits resignation amidst allegations')

In the news, 사표 is used for high-ranking officials, prosecutors, and politicians. When a cabinet member or a high-level executive steps down, the headlines will almost always use the word 사표. It sounds more decisive and final than simply saying they 'stopped working.' It implies a formal severance of ties with the institution.

In daily life, you might hear friends say, '나 오늘 진짜 사표 던질 뻔했어' (I almost threw my resignation today). This is a common way to express extreme frustration with one's job. It doesn't mean they actually did it; it's a way of saying, 'I've had enough.' The word functions as a symbol of the boundary between being an 'employee' and being 'free.' You will also hear it in the context of '사표 대란' (resignation crisis) when a specific industry sees many people quitting at once.

동료: '김 대리님, 진짜 사표 쓰신 거예요?' (Colleague: 'Assistant Manager Kim, did you really write a resignation letter?')

Finally, in the era of 'The Great Resignation' (known in Korea as 'Dae-toesa-sidae'), the word is appearing more frequently in podcasts, YouTube videos about career changes, and self-help books. It has moved from being a 'taboo' or 'shameful' word to one associated with 'finding oneself' and 'MZ generation' values of work-life balance.

While 사표 is a straightforward noun, learners often make mistakes regarding its formality, its distinction from similar words, and the verbs they pair with it. One of the most common errors is using 사표 for part-time jobs or casual situations where it sounds overly formal or slightly out of place.

Mistake 1: Confusing 사표 with 사직서: While they mean the same thing, 사직서 is the technical term for the form you fill out. If you are asking HR for the paperwork, ask for the '사직서'. If you are talking to a friend about the act of quitting, use '사표'.
Mistake 2: Using the wrong verb: Learners sometimes say '사표를 하다' (to do a resignation). This is incorrect. You must use 내다 (to hand in) or 쓰다 (to write).

❌ 사표를 했어요. (Incorrect) ✅ 사표를 냈어요. (Correct)

Another mistake involves the social hierarchy. You do not 'give' (주다) a 사표 to your boss; you 'submit' (제출하다) it or 'hand it in' (내다). Using '주다' can sound like you are giving them a gift or a casual item, which lacks the proper professional distance. Additionally, be careful with the phrase '사표를 던지다.' If you use this in a serious meeting, it sounds incredibly aggressive and rude. It should mostly be used when describing the event to someone else later.

Finally, some learners use 사표 when they mean the *action* of quitting. For example, 'I want to 사표' is wrong. You should say '퇴사하고 싶어요' (I want to leave the company) or '사표를 내고 싶어요' (I want to hand in my resignation). 사표 is always a noun. Remembering this distinction between the document and the action will make your Korean sound much more natural and precise.

In the world of Korean employment, there are several words related to leaving a job. Choosing the right one depends on how formal you want to be and whether you are focusing on the document, the action, or the status of leaving.

사직서 (辭職書): The most formal and technical term. Literally 'resignation from office document.' Use this in HR contexts or when referring to the official form. Example: 사직서 양식을 다운로드하세요. (Download the resignation form.)
퇴직 (退職): Refers to the act of retiring or leaving a job permanently. Often associated with '퇴직금' (severance pay). It is more about the status change than the document.
퇴사 (退社): Literally 'leaving the company.' This is the most common word for the act of quitting. Example: 그는 지난달에 퇴사했어요. (He left the company last month.)

사표 vs. 사직서: 사표 is more conversational/dramatic; 사직서 is the administrative name of the paper.

If you are working a part-time job or in a very casual environment, the phrase 그만두다 (to stop/quit) is much more natural. Saying 'I will submit my 사표' at a convenience store job might sound like a joke because it's so formal. Conversely, in a conglomerate (Chaebol), just saying 'I'm stopping' might sound unprofessional, and they would expect a 사직서.

To summarize: Use 사표 when you want to emphasize the document or the dramatic act of quitting. Use 사직서 for paperwork. Use 퇴사 for the general act of leaving a company. Use 그만두다 for casual situations. Understanding these nuances will help you navigate the delicate social waters of Korean work culture.

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

In the past, high-ranking officials would write long, poetic '사표' to the King, often citing their own lack of talent or their aging parents as reasons to be allowed to resign.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /sa.pʰjo/

US /sɑ.pʰjoʊ/

Stress is even on both syllables, as is typical in Korean.

Rhymes With

대표 (Representative) 발표 (Presentation) 투표 (Vote) 우표 (Stamp) 도표 (Chart) 수표 (Check) 지표 (Indicator) 목표 (Goal)

Common Errors

Pronouncing 'pyo' as 'peeyo' (two syllables). It should be one fluid sound.
Failing to aspirate the 'p' in 'pyo', making it sound like 'byo'.
Confusing it with 'sapyo' (private tutor - different Hanja).
Pronouncing 'sa' with a long English 'a' like 'say'.
Mixing up the vowels in 'pyo' (o) and 'pyu' (u).

Difficulty Rating

Reading 2/5

Easy to recognize in texts, often appears in titles.

Writing 3/5

Requires knowledge of Hanja-based nouns and proper verb pairings.

Speaking 2/5

Commonly used in daily office-related conversations.

Listening 2/5

Clear pronunciation makes it easy to hear in dramas.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

회사 (Company) 일 (Work) 내다 (To give/submit) 쓰다 (To write) 상사 (Boss)

Learn Next

사직서 (Formal resignation) 퇴사 (Leaving company) 실업급여 (Unemployment benefit) 이직 (Changing jobs) 면접 (Interview)

Advanced

권고사직 (Recommended resignation) 부당해고 (Unfair dismissal) 근로기준법 (Labor standards act) 인수인계 (Handover) 퇴직금 (Severance pay)

Grammar to Know

Object Marker -를

사표를 냅니다.

Honorific -께

사장님께 사표를 드렸어요.

Reasoning -기 때문에

힘들기 때문에 사표를 썼어요.

Intent -기로 하다

내일 사표를 내기로 했어요.

Passive -되다

사표가 수리되었습니다.

Examples by Level

저는 오늘 사표를 냈어요.

I submitted my resignation letter today.

사표 (noun) + 를 (object marker) + 내다 (verb)

사표가 어디에 있어요?

Where is the resignation letter?

사표 (noun) + 가 (subject marker)

사표를 쓰고 싶어요.

I want to write a resignation letter.

-고 싶다 (want to)

이것은 사표입니다.

This is a resignation letter.

이것 (this) + 은 (topic marker) + 입니다 (is)

친구는 사표를 안 냈어요.

My friend didn't submit the resignation letter.

안 (not) + 냈어요 (submitted)

사표를 가져오세요.

Please bring the resignation letter.

-으세요 (polite command)

그는 사표를 가방에 넣었어요.

He put the resignation letter in his bag.

넣다 (to put in)

사표를 읽어 보세요.

Please try reading the resignation letter.

-어 보다 (try doing)

부장님께 사표를 드렸습니다.

I gave the resignation letter to the department head.

께 (honorific 'to') + 드리다 (honorific 'give')

사표를 내기 전에 생각하세요.

Think before you submit your resignation letter.

-기 전에 (before doing)

왜 사표를 냈는지 물어봤어요.

I asked why they submitted the resignation letter.

-는지 (indirect question)

사표를 내면 마음이 편해요.

If I submit my resignation, I feel at ease.

-면 (if)

어제 사표를 썼지만 안 냈어요.

I wrote the resignation letter yesterday but didn't submit it.

-지만 (but)

사표를 내는 사람이 많아요.

There are many people submitting resignation letters.

-는 (noun-modifying suffix)

사표를 내고 여행을 갈 거예요.

I will submit my resignation and go on a trip.

-고 (and/then)

그의 사표가 책상 위에 있어요.

His resignation letter is on the desk.

의 (possessive marker)

사표를 품고 다니는 직장인이 많습니다.

There are many office workers who carry a resignation letter in their hearts.

품다 (to harbor/carry)

사표가 수리될 때까지 기다려야 해요.

You have to wait until the resignation is accepted.

수리되다 (to be accepted/processed)

홧김에 사표를 던지는 것은 좋지 않아요.

It's not good to throw your resignation in a fit of anger.

홧김에 (in a fit of anger)

사표를 낼 용기가 없어서 참았어요.

I didn't have the courage to submit my resignation, so I endured it.

용기 (courage) + 참다 (to endure)

그는 갑자기 사표를 내고 회사를 떠났다.

He suddenly submitted his resignation and left the company.

떠나다 (to leave)

사표를 수리하지 않으면 어떻게 되나요?

What happens if they don't accept the resignation?

어떻게 되나요 (what happens)

건강이 나빠져서 결국 사표를 냈습니다.

My health got worse, so I eventually submitted my resignation.

-아/어지다 (become) + 결국 (eventually)

사표를 낼까 말까 고민 중이에요.

I'm debating whether to submit my resignation or not.

-을까 말까 (whether to... or not)

사표를 내는 대신 휴가를 가기로 했어요.

Instead of submitting a resignation, I decided to take a vacation.

대신 (instead of)

회사 측에서 사표를 반려했습니다.

The company side rejected/returned the resignation letter.

반려하다 (to reject/return a document)

사표를 제출하기 전에 인수인계를 해야 합니다.

Before submitting your resignation, you must do a handover.

인수인계 (handover/transition of duties)

그는 사표를 통해 자신의 의지를 보여주었다.

He showed his will through his resignation letter.

통해 (through)

사표를 내고 나니 오히려 마음이 홀가분해요.

After submitting my resignation, I actually feel light-hearted.

-고 나니 (after doing... I found that)

상사의 갑질 때문에 사표를 던지는 사람들이 늘고 있다.

The number of people throwing their resignations due to the boss's abuse of power is increasing.

갑질 (abuse of power) + -고 있다 (progressive)

사표를 수리하는 과정에서 갈등이 생겼다.

A conflict arose during the process of accepting the resignation.

과정 (process) + 갈등 (conflict)

그녀는 사표를 내기 위해 오랫동안 준비해 왔다.

She has been preparing for a long time to submit her resignation.

-기 위해 (in order to) + -어 오다 (have been doing)

검찰 총장의 사표 제출은 큰 파장을 일으켰다.

The Prosecutor General's resignation submission caused a huge ripple effect.

파장 (ripple/impact) + 일으키다 (to cause)

사표가 정치적 도구로 이용되어서는 안 된다.

A resignation should not be used as a political tool.

도구 (tool) + -어서는 안 된다 (must not be)

그는 사표를 내며 조직의 문제를 지적했다.

As he submitted his resignation, he pointed out the problems of the organization.

-(으)며 (while/and) + 지적하다 (to point out)

사표를 수리하지 않고 방치하는 것은 권리 침해다.

Leaving a resignation unaccepted and neglected is an infringement of rights.

방치하다 (to neglect) + 침해 (infringement)

사표 한 장에 담긴 그의 고뇌를 이해할 수 있었다.

I could understand his agony contained in that single resignation letter.

담기다 (to be contained) + 고뇌 (agony)

그는 사표를 내는 것으로 책임을 지기로 했다.

He decided to take responsibility by submitting his resignation.

-는 것 (nominalizer) + 책임을 지다 (to take responsibility)

사표를 내기까지 얼마나 많은 고민이 있었겠습니까?

How much worry must there have been until he submitted his resignation?

-었겠습니까 (rhetorical question about past probability)

사표 수리가 지연되면서 퇴사 일정이 꼬였다.

As the resignation acceptance was delayed, the leaving schedule got messed up.

지연되다 (to be delayed) + 꼬이다 (to get tangled/messed up)

사직 상소는 현대의 사표와 그 궤를 같이한다.

The historical resignation memorials to the King share the same trajectory as modern resignations.

궤를 같이하다 (to share the same path/context)

사표를 반려함으로써 조직의 안정을 꾀하려 했다.

By rejecting the resignation, they tried to seek the stability of the organization.

-(으)로써 (by means of) + 꾀하다 (to seek/plot)

그의 사표는 단순한 퇴직 의사가 아닌 사회적 선언이었다.

His resignation was not a simple intent to quit, but a social declaration.

의사 (intent) + 선언 (declaration)

사표를 내던지는 행위 속에 내재된 울분을 읽어야 한다.

One must read the pent-up resentment inherent in the act of throwing down a resignation.

내재되다 (to be inherent) + 울분 (resentment/bitterness)

사표 수리의 법적 효력에 관한 논쟁이 뜨겁다.

The debate regarding the legal validity of resignation acceptance is heated.

효력 (validity/effect) + 논쟁 (debate)

그는 사표를 제출하며 자신의 소신을 굽히지 않았다.

He did not bend his convictions as he submitted his resignation.

소신 (conviction) + 굽히다 (to bend)

사표를 통해 표출된 노동 환경의 모순을 직시해야 한다.

We must face the contradictions of the labor environment expressed through resignations.

표출되다 (to be expressed/surfaced) + 직시하다 (to face squarely)

사표가 수리되지 않은 상태에서의 무단결근은 문제가 될 수 있다.

Absence without leave while a resignation has not been accepted can be problematic.

무단결근 (absence without leave)

Common Collocations

사표를 내다

사표를 던지다

사표를 수리하다

사표를 품다

사표를 쓰다

사표를 제출하다

사표가 반려되다

사표를 철회하다

사표 대란

사표를 받다

Common Phrases

사표를 내밀다

— To hold out or present a resignation letter.

그는 당당하게 사표를 내밀었다.

사표를 가슴에 품다

— To always be ready to quit or thinking about quitting.

힘들 때마다 사표를 가슴에 품고 견뎌요.

사표를 반려하다

— To reject or return a resignation letter.

부장님이 제 사표를 반려하셨어요.

사표를 던지고 나오다

— To quit a job abruptly and walk out.

그는 오늘 사표를 던지고 나왔다.

사표를 수리 중이다

— The resignation is currently being processed.

현재 제 사표를 수리 중이라고 합니다.

사표를 쓸까 고민하다

— To debate whether to write a resignation letter.

매일 사표를 쓸까 고민해요.

사표를 낸 이유

— The reason for submitting a resignation.

사표를 낸 이유가 뭐예요?

사표를 통해 항의하다

— To protest by resigning.

그는 사표를 통해 부당함에 항의했다.

사표를 받아들이다

— To accept a resignation.

회사는 결국 그의 사표를 받아들였다.

사표를 내기로 결심하다

— To make up one's mind to resign.

드디어 사표를 내기로 결심했어요.

Often Confused With

사표 vs 수표

Means 'check' (money). Sounds similar but unrelated to resignation.

사표 vs 투표

Means 'vote'. Often confused by beginners due to the 'pyo' ending.

사표 vs 도표

Means 'chart' or 'diagram'. Also ends in 'pyo'.

Idioms & Expressions

"가슴속에 사표를 품다"

— To always have the intent to quit but not doing it yet due to circumstances.

직장인이라면 누구나 가슴속에 사표 하나쯤은 품고 산다.

Common/Metaphorical

"사표를 던지다"

— To resign in a bold or defiant manner.

그는 연봉 협상이 결렬되자 사표를 던졌다.

Colloquial

"사표로 배수진을 치다"

— To use a resignation as a last resort or to show one's absolute commitment to a demand.

그는 사표로 배수진을 치고 개혁을 요구했다.

Literary/Political

"사표가 반려되는 게 일상"

— Used when a company repeatedly refuses to let a key employee leave.

그는 너무 유능해서 사표가 반려되는 게 일상이다.

Humorous

"사표를 쓰고 싶을 때가 한두 번이 아니다"

— To feel like quitting very frequently.

일이 너무 많아서 사표를 쓰고 싶을 때가 한두 번이 아니에요.

Common

"사표 한 장으로 끝내다"

— To finish a long career with just one piece of paper.

30년 직장 생활을 사표 한 장으로 끝냈다.

Poetic

"사표를 내는 게 답이다"

— Resigning is the only solution/answer.

이런 회사라면 사표를 내는 게 답이다.

Slang-ish

"사표를 품에 안고 출근하다"

— To go to work while mentally prepared to quit that very day.

오늘도 사표를 품에 안고 출근했습니다.

Common

"사표를 내다니 꿈만 같다"

— It feels like a dream to finally be able to resign.

드디어 사표를 내다니 꿈만 같아요.

Emotional

"사표를 내기엔 아직 이르다"

— It is too early to give up or quit.

조금 더 해보자. 사표를 내기엔 아직 이르다.

Encouraging

Easily Confused

사표 vs 사직서

Both mean resignation letter.

사직서 is the official form/document name; 사표 is the general and more conversational word.

사직서 양식을 채우고 사표를 냈어요.

사표 vs 퇴사

Both relate to quitting.

퇴사 is the act of leaving the company; 사표 is the document used to do it.

사표를 내고 퇴사했어요.

사표 vs 해고

Both involve leaving a job.

사표 is voluntary; 해고 is being fired by the company.

사표를 낸 게 아니라 해고당했어요.

사표 vs 은퇴

Both mean stopping work.

은퇴 is retiring after a long career; 사표 can be at any time.

그는 은퇴하기 전에 사표를 냈다.

사표 vs 휴직

Both involve not working.

휴직 is a temporary leave; 사표 is a permanent departure.

사표 대신 휴직을 권유받았다.

Sentence Patterns

N(이/가) 사표를 냅니다.

민수가 사표를 냅니다.

V-아/어서 사표를 냈어요.

아파서 사표를 냈어요.

N에게 사표를 던지다.

사장에게 사표를 던졌다.

사표를 내기로 결심하다.

그는 사표를 내기로 결심했다.

사표가 수리되다.

드디어 사표가 수리되었다.

사표를 품고 살다.

우리는 사표를 품고 산다.

사표를 제출함으로써 책임을 지다.

사표를 제출함으로써 책임을 졌다.

사표 반려의 정당성.

사표 반려의 정당성을 논하다.

Word Family

Nouns

사직서 (Resignation letter)

사직 (Resignation)

퇴사 (Leaving company)

퇴직 (Retirement)

Verbs

사직하다 (To resign)

퇴사하다 (To leave a company)

퇴직하다 (To retire)

그만두다 (To stop/quit)

회회사 (Company)

상사 (Boss)

동료 (Colleague)

월급 (Salary)

업무 (Work/Task)

How to Use It

frequency

Common in workplace and media contexts.

Common Mistakes

사표를 하다 → 사표를 내다 / 쓰다
You don't 'do' a resignation letter; you 'write' or 'submit' it.
사장님께 사표를 주다 → 사장님께 사표를 제출하다 / 내다
'주다' is too casual for a formal document like a resignation letter. Use '제출하다' or '내다'.
사표하고 싶어요 → 퇴사하고 싶어요 / 사표를 내고 싶어요
'사표' is a noun, not a verb. You need an action verb like '퇴사하다' or '내다'.
사표를 수표라고 말함 → 사표
'수표' means a bank check. Make sure to use the 'sa' sound, not 'su'.
사표를 반려당하다 (Used incorrectly) → 사표가 반려되다
While '반려당하다' is sometimes heard, '사표가 반려되다' is the more standard passive construction.

Tips

The White Envelope

Even in the digital age, '사표' is strongly associated with a white paper envelope. If you see a character in a drama holding a white envelope at work, they are likely about to resign.

Verb Pairing

Always remember that '사표' is a noun. You cannot say 'I sa-pyo.' You must say '사표를 내다' (I submit a resignation).

Venting with Friends

When complaining about work, saying '사표 던지고 싶다' (I want to throw my resignation) is a very natural way to express stress.

HR Contexts

If you are in a real HR meeting, use the term '사직서' (Sajikseo) to sound more professional and knowledgeable about company procedures.

Hanja Roots

Knowing that '사' (辭) means 'to part with' or 'to decline' helps you understand other words like '사양' (refusal) and '사직' (resignation).

Notice Period

When you submit a '사표', it's polite to do so at least a month in advance to allow for '인수인계' (job handover).

News Headlines

When high-level officials are in trouble, listen for '사표' in the news. It's often used to show they are taking responsibility.

Reason for Resignation

Common reasons written on a '사표' include '일신상의 사유' (personal reasons) which is a polite way to not give a specific reason.

The Heart's Resignation

The phrase '가슴속의 사표' is a powerful way to describe the modern worker's struggle. Use it to sound like a native speaker who understands workplace sentiment.

Synonym Check

Regularly review the difference between '사표', '퇴사', and '은퇴' to ensure you are using the correct word for the situation.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of 'SA-PYO'. 'SA' as in 'Sayonara' (Goodbye) and 'PYO' as in 'Paper'. A 'Goodbye Paper'.

Visual Association

Imagine a white envelope sitting on a wooden desk. Inside is a single sheet of paper that changes your life. That is the 사표.

Word Web

Job Quit Letter Boss Freedom Company Envelope Decision

Challenge

Try to write a sentence using '사표' and a reason why someone might submit it. For example: '너무 피곤해서 사표를 냈어요.'

Word Origin

Derived from Hanja (Sino-Korean characters). 辭 (사) means 'to decline' or 'words,' and 表 (표) means 'a document' or 'a table/surface.'

Original meaning: A formal document submitted to a monarch or superior to decline an office or request to leave a position.

Sino-Korean

Cultural Context

Resigning is a sensitive topic. Never ask 'Did you submit your 사표?' unless you are very close to the person, as it can be a painful or private subject.

In the West, a 'two-week notice' is standard. In Korea, the '사표' is the start of a negotiation where the boss might try to convince you to stay (회유).

The drama 'Misaeng' (Incomplete Life) features many scenes about the weight of a resignation. The movie 'Office' uses the resignation letter as a source of psychological tension. Popular webtoon 'The Great Resignation' explores the emotional journey of writing a 사표.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Office Workplace

사표를 내다
사표를 수리하다
사직서를 작성하다
퇴사를 준비하다

Daily Conversation

사표 던지고 싶다
사표 냈어?
언제 사표 낼 거야?
사표 품고 산다

News/Politics

사표를 제출하다
사표가 수리되다
일괄 사표를 내다
사표를 반려하다

Legal/HR

사표 수리의 효력
사직서 양식
퇴직 절차
해고와 사직

Drama/Movies

사표 여기 있습니다
사표를 던지다
이게 내 사표야
사표를 거두다

Conversation Starters

"혹시 사표를 내본 적이 있어요? (Have you ever submitted a resignation?)"

"한국 드라마에서 사표를 던지는 장면을 본 적 있나요? (Have you seen a scene in a Korean drama where someone throws a resignation?)"

"사람들이 사표를 내는 가장 큰 이유는 무엇일까요? (What do you think is the biggest reason people submit resignations?)"

"사표를 내기 전에 가장 먼저 해야 할 일은 무엇인가요? (What is the first thing one should do before submitting a resignation?)"

"가슴속에 사표를 품고 산다는 말에 공감하시나요? (Do you empathize with the saying about carrying a resignation in one's heart?)"

Journal Prompts

내가 만약 사표를 낸다면 그 이유는 무엇일까? (If I were to submit a resignation, what would be the reason?)

사표를 낸 후의 첫날 기분은 어떨 것 같은가? (How do you think you would feel on the first day after submitting a resignation?)

사표를 던지고 싶은 순간을 어떻게 극복할 수 있을까? (How can one overcome moments when they want to throw their resignation?)

한국의 사표 문화와 우리 나라의 사표 문화는 어떻게 다른가? (How is the resignation culture in Korea different from my country's?)

꿈을 위해 사표를 낸 사람의 이야기를 써보세요. (Write a story about someone who resigned for the sake of their dream.)

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

사표 (Sapyo) is the general word for a resignation letter, often used in speech and media. 사직서 (Sajikseo) is the formal, administrative name for the document. If you are asking for the paper from HR, '사직서' is better. If you are telling a friend you quit, '사표' is more natural.

It sounds a bit too formal for a part-time job (alba). For an alba, it's better to say '그만두다' (to stop). Using '사표' might sound like you are being dramatic or joking.

Yes, literally throwing a resignation is very rude and aggressive. However, as an idiom, it just means quitting decisively or in frustration. Use it in conversation to describe an event, but don't actually throw the paper at your boss!

The most common are '내다' (to submit), '쓰다' (to write), '제출하다' (formally submit), and '수리하다' (to accept/process).

In Korea, usually the '사표' needs to be '수리' (accepted/processed) by the company, and there is often a notice period (usually 30 days) required by the contract or labor laws.

It's a very common expression meaning someone is unhappy at work and always thinking about quitting, but they keep the 'resignation' mentally ready while continuing to work for the salary.

Yes, when a politician or high-ranking official resigns, the news almost always uses the term '사표를 제출하다'.

In modern companies, yes. But traditionally, it was given in a white envelope. Even for email, it is often called '사표' or '사직서'.

It's when the company rejects your resignation and asks you to stay. This is common if the company values the employee highly.

Most companies have a '사직서' template. If not, a simple letter stating your name, position, reason for leaving, and the date of resignation is sufficient.