비슷하다 in 30 Seconds
- 비슷하다 means to be similar or resemble.
- Used to compare things with common characteristics.
- Versatile for objects, people, ideas, and situations.
- Essential for everyday Korean comparisons.
The Korean adjective '비슷하다' (biseuthada) is a fundamental word used to express the concept of similarity. It means 'to be similar,' 'to resemble,' or 'to be alike.' You'll encounter this word frequently in everyday Korean conversations and writing when comparing two or more things, people, or situations.
- Core Meaning
- When two or more entities share common characteristics, qualities, or appearances, they are described as '비슷하다'.
- Usage Scenarios
- It's used in a wide range of contexts, from comparing physical objects and appearances to abstract concepts like opinions, feelings, or situations. For example, you might say two people look alike, two dishes taste similar, or two events happened in a comparable way.
- Informal vs. Formal
- '비슷하다' is a versatile adjective and can be used in both formal and informal settings. Its conjugation will change depending on the grammatical context and the level of politeness required.
이 두 그림은 비슷하다.
제 생각과 당신의 생각이 비슷하다.
Understanding '비슷하다' is crucial for making comparisons and grasping nuances in Korean. It allows you to describe how things relate to each other without being identical. Whether you're describing physical resemblances, taste profiles, or even personality traits, this adjective will be your go-to word.
Consider the visual aspect: if you see two shirts that have the same color pattern, you would say they are similar. If you taste two different types of kimchi and find they have a comparable level of spiciness, you can use '비슷하다'. Even in abstract discussions, if someone expresses an opinion that aligns closely with yours, you can state that your opinions are similar. This word bridges the gap between 'the same' and 'different,' allowing for more precise descriptions.
- Common Comparisons
- * Appearance: '그녀는 엄마와 얼굴이 비슷하다.' (She resembles her mother in the face.)
- * Taste/Smell: '이 음식은 전에 먹었던 음식과 맛이 비슷하다.' (This food tastes similar to the food I ate before.)
- * Sound: '그 새의 노랫소리는 피리 소리와 비슷하다.' (The bird's song sounds similar to a flute.)
- * Situation/Event: '오늘의 날씨는 어제와 비슷하다.' (Today's weather is similar to yesterday's.)
- * Opinion/Feeling: '그의 의견은 내 의견과 비슷하다.' (His opinion is similar to mine.)
Mastering '비슷하다' involves understanding its grammatical structure and how it connects with other words. As an adjective, it describes a noun. In Korean, adjectives often precede the nouns they modify or function as a predicate at the end of a sentence.
- As a Predicate
- The most common way to use '비슷하다' is at the end of a sentence, describing the subject. You will often see it conjugated with the polite ending '-아요/어요'.
이 두 강아지는 정말 비슷해요.
- Connecting Comparisons
- When comparing two items, you typically use particles like '은/는' for the topic and '과/와' or '하고' to link the items being compared.
사과와 배는 둘 다 과일이라서 비슷하다.
- Modifying a Noun (Less Common for Basic Use)
- While less common in introductory learning, '비슷한' (biseuthan) can be used as a modifier before a noun. This form is derived from the adjective stem '비슷하-' plus the adnominal ending '-ㄴ'.
이것은 내가 찾던 비슷한 책이야.
Let's look at more examples demonstrating different sentence structures:
- Comparing Abstract Concepts
- * 그녀의 목소리는 가수 A와 비슷해요.
Her voice is similar to singer A's.
- Comparing Situations
- * 이 상황은 지난번과 비슷하다.
This situation is similar to the last time.
- Comparing Opinions
- * 저의 생각은 당신의 생각과 비슷해요.
My thoughts are similar to yours.
- Comparing Objects
- * 이 두 가방은 디자인이 비슷하다.
These two bags have a similar design.
- Using the Modifier Form
- * 이것은 제가 전에 본 영화와 비슷한 줄거리예요.
This is a plot similar to a movie I saw before.
Remember that '비슷하다' is an adjective, and in Korean, adjectives often conjugate to indicate politeness levels. The '-아요/어요' ending is the most common for everyday conversation. For more formal situations, you might use '-ㅂ니다/습니다'.
- Formal Conjugation
- * 두 분의 의견은 매우 비슷합니다.
The opinions of the two individuals are very similar.
'비슷하다' is a very common word that you'll hear and see in a multitude of everyday situations in Korea. Its versatility makes it indispensable for making comparisons.
- In Daily Conversations
- When friends discuss fashion, they might say, '이 옷 디자인이 네 옷이랑 비슷하다.' (This clothing design is similar to yours.) Or when talking about food, '이 식당 음식 맛이 저번에 갔던 곳이랑 비슷해.' (The taste of the food at this restaurant is similar to the one we went to last time.)
- In Media and Entertainment
- In dramas or movies, characters might comment on resemblances: '그 배우는 내 어릴 적 모습과 비슷하다.' (That actor resembles me when I was young.) In variety shows, hosts often compare contestants' skills or appearances using this word.
- In Shopping and Product Reviews
- When shopping online, reviews might state, '이 제품은 advertised 된 것과 비슷해요.' (This product is similar to what was advertised.) Or, '다른 브랜드의 이 모델은 이 모델과 비슷한 기능이 있어요.' (This model from another brand has similar functions to this model.)
- In Educational Settings
- Teachers might explain concepts by saying, '이 개념은 우리가 배운 다른 개념과 비슷하다.' (This concept is similar to another concept we learned.)
- In Travel and Descriptions
- When describing a new place, one might say, '이 도시는 내가 살았던 도시와 풍경이 비슷하다.' (This city has scenery similar to the city I lived in.)
이 두 노래는 멜로디가 비슷해요.
The word is so ingrained in the language that you'll even hear it in casual remarks about weather, traffic, or even how someone is feeling. For instance, '오늘 날씨가 어제와 비슷하네요.' (The weather today is similar to yesterday.) or '그 사람은 평소에 비슷한 옷을 자주 입어요.' (That person often wears similar clothes.)
- Everyday Comparisons
- * 이 두 색깔은 너무 비슷해서 구분이 안 가요. (These two colors are so similar that I can't distinguish them.)
- * 그의 연기는 이전 작품과 비슷한 느낌이었어요. (His acting felt similar to his previous work.)
- * 이 소설의 줄거리는 제가 읽었던 다른 소설과 비슷하다.(The plot of this novel is similar to another novel I read.)
While '비슷하다' is a fundamental word, learners can sometimes make mistakes, especially with particles and comparisons. Understanding these common pitfalls can help you use the word more accurately.
- Incorrect Particle Usage
- A common mistake is using the wrong particle to connect the items being compared. For example, incorrectly using '에서' (from) or '으로' (to/by) instead of '과/와' or '하고'.
Incorrect: 이 옷은 저 옷 에서 비슷해요.
Correct: 이 옷은 저 옷 과 비슷해요.
- Confusing '비슷하다' with '같다' (to be the same)
- While both words express a form of sameness, '같다' means 'to be exactly the same,' whereas '비슷하다' means 'to be similar' or 'to resemble.' Using '같다' when there are only minor differences can be inaccurate.
Incorrect: 이 두 그림은 같아요.
Correct: 이 두 그림은 비슷해요.
- Incorrect Conjugation of the Adjective Stem
- Sometimes learners might forget to properly conjugate the adjective stem '비슷하-' when adding endings. For example, incorrectly adding '-어요' directly to '비슷'.
Incorrect: 이 두 가지는 비슷어요.
Correct: 이 두 가지는 비슷해요.
- Overuse or Underuse
- Some learners might overuse '비슷하다' when a more specific word would be better, or conversely, they might avoid it altogether, leading to less descriptive sentences. It's important to find the right balance.
Practicing with native speaker examples and getting feedback on your own sentences will significantly help in avoiding these common mistakes. Focus on the grammatical structure and the subtle difference in meaning between '비슷하다' and '같다'.
While '비슷하다' is a versatile word for similarity, Korean offers other words and expressions that convey similar or related meanings, sometimes with subtle differences in nuance or formality.
- 같다 (gatda) - To be the same
- This is the most direct alternative, but it means 'to be exactly the same,' not just similar. Use '같다' when there are no discernible differences.
- Usage Comparison:
- * 비슷하다: '이 두 문장은 구조가 비슷하다.' (These two sentences have a similar structure.) - Implies resemblance but not identity.
- * 같다: '이 두 문장은 철자가 같다.' (These two sentences have the same spelling.) - Implies exact identity.
- 닮다 (damda) - To resemble (often used for physical appearance)
- This verb is primarily used for people or things that look alike, often referring to family resemblances or physical likeness.
- Usage Comparison:
- * 비슷하다: '그녀는 엄마와 비슷하다.' (She is similar to her mother.) - Can refer to appearance, personality, etc.
- * 닮다: '그녀는 엄마를 많이 닮았다.' (She resembles her mother a lot.) - Primarily about physical appearance.
- 흡사하다 (heupsahada) - To be very similar, almost identical
- This is a more formal word than '비슷하다' and implies a very high degree of similarity, almost to the point of being indistinguishable.
- Usage Comparison:
- * 비슷하다: '이 두 그림은 비슷해요.' (These two pictures are similar.)
- * 흡사하다: '두 작품은 너무 흡사해서 누가 그린 것인지 헷갈릴 정도였다.' (The two works were so similar that it was confusing to tell who had drawn them.) - Higher degree of similarity, often used in formal contexts.
- 유사하다 (yusahada) - To be similar (often used in technical or academic contexts)
- This is another word for similarity, often used in more formal, academic, or technical writing. It's less common in casual conversation than '비슷하다'.
- Usage Comparison:
- * 비슷하다: '이 두 문장은 비슷하다.' (These two sentences are similar.)
- * 유사하다: '이 두 연구 결과는 유사한 경향을 보인다.' (These two research findings show similar trends.) - More academic tone.
Choosing the right word depends on the context and the degree of similarity you want to convey. While '비슷하다' is a safe bet for most situations, understanding these alternatives will enrich your vocabulary and allow for more precise expression.
How Formal Is It?
Fun Fact
The etymology of '비슷하다' is not definitively documented with absolute certainty, as is common with many native Korean words whose origins predate extensive written records. However, linguistic analysis points to a gradual phonetic evolution from older forms.
Pronunciation Guide
- Pronouncing '슷' (seut) as '숙' (suk) or '쉽' (swip).
- Incorrectly adding or omitting the final '다' (da).
- Over-emphasizing certain syllables, disrupting the natural flow.
- Confusing the vowel sounds within the syllables.
Difficulty Rating
At the A1-A2 level, '비슷하다' is straightforward to understand in simple sentences. As complexity increases with B1-B2 levels, recognizing its use in comparative structures and distinguishing it from '같다' or '닮다' requires more attention. Advanced contexts (C1-C2) may involve nuanced comparisons and less common collocations.
Beginners can easily use '비슷하다' in basic comparisons. Writing more complex comparative sentences, ensuring correct particle usage, and differentiating it from synonyms require practice as learners progress. Advanced writing might involve using '비슷한' as a modifier or employing more formal alternatives.
Pronouncing and using '비슷하다' in simple spoken sentences is achievable early on. Spontaneous use in comparisons, especially when distinguishing between degrees of similarity, requires more fluency. Advanced speakers can naturally integrate it into nuanced discussions.
Recognizing '비슷하다' in spoken Korean is relatively easy at lower levels due to its commonality. Understanding the context of the comparison and the degree of similarity requires careful listening, especially in faster speech or complex sentences.
What to Learn Next
Prerequisites
Learn Next
Advanced
Examples by Level
이것은 저것과 비슷하다.
This is similar to that.
Subject (이것) + Topic Marker (은/는) + Object (저것) + Particle (과/와) + Adjective (비슷하다).
두 사람은 비슷하다.
The two people are similar.
Subject (두 사람) + Topic Marker (은/는) + Adjective (비슷하다).
이것은 저것과 비슷해요.
This is similar to that. (Polite)
Subject (이것) + Topic Marker (은/는) + Object (저것) + Particle (과/와) + Adjective conjugated to -아요/어요 (비슷해요).
이 색깔은 저 색깔과 비슷하다.
This color is similar to that color.
Subject (이 색깔) + Topic Marker (은/는) + Object (저 색깔) + Particle (과/와) + Adjective (비슷하다).
두 고양이는 비슷해요.
The two cats are similar. (Polite)
Subject (두 고양이) + Topic Marker (은/는) + Adjective conjugated to -아요/어요 (비슷해요).
이것은 저것과 비슷하다.
This is similar to that.
Subject (이것) + Topic Marker (은/는) + Object (저것) + Particle (과/와) + Adjective (비슷하다).
두 집은 비슷하게 생겼다.
The two houses look similar.
Subject (두 집) + Topic Marker (은/는) + Adverbial form (비슷하게) + Verb (생겼다).
이것은 저것과 비슷하지 않다.
This is not similar to that.
Subject (이것) + Topic Marker (은/는) + Object (저것) + Particle (과/와) + Negative Adjective (비슷하지 않다).
이 음식이 전에 먹었던 음식과 맛이 비슷해요.
The taste of this food is similar to the food I ate before. (Polite)
Subject (이 음식) + Topic Marker (이) + Object (전에 먹었던 음식) + Particle (과/와) + Noun (맛) + Particle (이/가) + Adjective conjugated to -아요/어요 (비슷해요).
오늘 날씨는 어제와 비슷하다.
Today's weather is similar to yesterday's.
Subject (오늘 날씨) + Topic Marker (은/는) + Object (어제) + Particle (와/과) + Adjective (비슷하다).
그녀의 목소리는 가수 A와 비슷해요.
Her voice is similar to singer A's. (Polite)
Subject (그녀의 목소리) + Topic Marker (은/는) + Object (가수 A) + Particle (와/과) + Adjective conjugated to -아요/어요 (비슷해요).
이 두 가방은 디자인이 비슷하다.
These two bags have a similar design.
Subject (이 두 가방) + Topic Marker (은/는) + Noun (디자인) + Particle (이/가) + Adjective (비슷하다).
그의 의견은 내 의견과 비슷해요.
His opinion is similar to mine. (Polite)
Subject (그의 의견) + Topic Marker (은/는) + Object (내 의견) + Particle (과/와) + Adjective conjugated to -아요/어요 (비슷해요).
이 노래는 예전에 들었던 노래와 멜로디가 비슷하다.
This song has a melody similar to a song I heard before.
Subject (이 노래) + Topic Marker (은/는) + Object (예전에 들었던 노래) + Particle (와/과) + Noun (멜로디) + Particle (이/가) + Adjective (비슷하다).
이것은 제가 전에 본 영화와 비슷한 줄거리예요.
This is a plot similar to a movie I saw before. (Polite)
Noun modifier (비슷한) + Noun (줄거리) + Particle (이/가) + Copula (예요).
그 두 건물은 외관이 비슷하다.
The exterior of those two buildings is similar.
Subject (그 두 건물) + Topic Marker (은/는) + Noun (외관) + Particle (이/가) + Adjective (비슷하다).
그녀의 말투는 친구와 비슷해서 가끔 헷갈려요.
Her way of speaking is similar to her friend's, so I sometimes get confused. (Polite)
Subject (그녀의 말투) + Topic Marker (은/는) + Object (친구) + Particle (와/과) + Adjective (비슷해서) + Conjunction (서) + Verb (헷갈려요).
이 소설의 분위기는 제가 좋아하는 다른 소설과 비슷해요.
The atmosphere of this novel is similar to another novel I like. (Polite)
Subject (이 소설의 분위기) + Topic Marker (은/는) + Object (제가 좋아하는 다른 소설) + Particle (과/와) + Adjective (비슷해요).
두 시의 내용은 표면적으로는 비슷해 보이지만, 깊은 의미는 다르다.
The content of the two poems appears similar on the surface, but their deeper meaning is different.
Subject (두 시의 내용) + Topic Marker (은/는) + Adverbial form (표면적으로는) + Adjective (비슷해 보이지만) + Conjunction (지만) + Noun (깊은 의미) + Particle (은/는) + Adjective (다르다).
그 배우의 연기는 이전 작품과 비슷했지만, 캐릭터 해석은 더 깊었다.
The actor's performance was similar to his previous work, but his character interpretation was deeper.
Subject (그 배우의 연기) + Topic Marker (은/는) + Object (이전 작품) + Particle (과/와) + Adjective (비슷했지만) + Conjunction (지만) + Noun (캐릭터 해석) + Adverb (더) + Adjective (깊었다).
이 두 사건은 발생 원인이 비슷하다고 볼 수 있다.
The cause of these two incidents can be seen as similar.
Subject (이 두 사건) + Topic Marker (은/는) + Noun (발생 원인) + Particle (이/가) + Adjective (비슷하다고) + Verb (볼 수 있다).
그녀의 그림 스타일은 인상주의 화가들과 비슷하다.
Her painting style is similar to Impressionist painters.
Subject (그녀의 그림 스타일) + Topic Marker (은/는) + Object (인상주의 화가들) + Particle (과/와) + Adjective (비슷하다).
이것은 제가 전에 썼던 논문과 비슷한 주제를 다루고 있어요.
This deals with a topic similar to the thesis I wrote before. (Polite)
Noun modifier (비슷한) + Noun (주제) + Particle (을/를) + Verb (다루고 있어요).
두 나라의 문화는 많은 면에서 비슷하지만, 언어는 완전히 다르다.
The cultures of the two countries are similar in many aspects, but their languages are completely different.
Subject (두 나라의 문화) + Topic Marker (은/는) + Noun (많은 면) + Particle (에서) + Adjective (비슷하지만) + Conjunction (지만) + Noun (언어) + Adverb (완전히) + Adjective (다르다).
그의 최근 연구 결과는 이전의 가설과 상당히 비슷한 맥락을 보여준다.
His recent research findings show a considerably similar context to his previous hypothesis.
Subject (그의 최근 연구 결과) + Topic Marker (은/는) + Object (이전의 가설) + Particle (과/와) + Adverb (상당히) + Adjective (비슷한) + Noun (맥락) + Verb (보여준다).
이 두 문학 작품은 주제는 유사하지만, 표현 방식에서 큰 차이를 보인다.
These two literary works are similar in theme, but show a significant difference in their expression methods.
Subject (이 두 문학 작품) + Topic Marker (은/는) + Noun (주제) + Particle (은/는) + Adjective (유사하지만) + Conjunction (지만) + Noun (표현 방식) + Particle (에서) + Noun (큰 차이) + Verb (보인다).
그녀의 외모는 어린 시절의 사진과 매우 흡사하여 놀라움을 금치 못했다.
Her appearance was so strikingly similar to her childhood photos that I couldn't help but be amazed.
Subject (그녀의 외모) + Topic Marker (은/는) + Object (어린 시절의 사진) + Particle (과/와) + Adverb (매우) + Adjective (흡사하여) + Conjunction (하여) + Verb (놀라움을 금치 못했다).
두 사회 운동은 목표는 비슷했으나, 그 방법론에서는 뚜렷한 차이가 존재했다.
The two social movements had similar goals, but there was a clear difference in their methodologies.
Subject (두 사회 운동) + Topic Marker (은/는) + Noun (목표) + Particle (는) + Adjective (비슷했으나) + Conjunction (으나) + Noun (그 방법론) + Particle (에서) + Adjective (뚜렷한) + Noun (차이) + Verb (존재했다).
이 두 가지 이론은 근본적인 원리 면에서 유사한 점을 공유한다.
These two theories share similar points in terms of their fundamental principles.
Subject (이 두 가지 이론) + Topic Marker (은/는) + Noun (근본적인 원리) + Particle (면) + Particle (에서) + Adjective (유사한) + Noun (점) + Verb (공유한다).
그의 최근 작품은 이전 시기 작품들과 분위기 면에서 비슷하지만, 소재는 완전히 다르다.
His recent works are similar in atmosphere to his previous period's works, but the subject matter is completely different.
Subject (그의 최근 작품) + Topic Marker (은/는) + Object (이전 시기 작품들) + Particle (과/와) + Noun (분위기) + Particle (면) + Particle (에서) + Adjective (비슷하지만) + Conjunction (지만) + Noun (소재) + Adverb (완전히) + Adjective (다르다).
이 두 음악 장르는 겉보기에는 다르지만, 리듬 구조에서 유사성을 찾을 수 있다.
Although these two music genres appear different, similarities can be found in their rhythmic structures.
Subject (이 두 음악 장르) + Topic Marker (은/는) + Adverb (겉보기에는) + Adjective (다르지만) + Conjunction (지만) + Noun (리듬 구조) + Particle (에서) + Noun (유사성) + Verb (찾을 수 있다).
두 정치 체제는 통치 방식에서 비슷한 점이 많지만, 이념적으로는 큰 괴리가 있다.
The two political systems have many similarities in their governing methods, but there is a large ideological gap.
Subject (두 정치 체제) + Topic Marker (은/는) + Noun (통치 방식) + Particle (에서) + Adjective (비슷한) + Noun (점) + Particle (이/가) + Adverb (많지만) + Conjunction (지만) + Noun (이념적) + Particle (으로) + Adverb (큰) + Noun (괴리) + Verb (있다).
그의 철학은 고대 사상가들의 견해와 상당히 비슷한 맥락을 지니고 있다.
His philosophy shares a considerably similar context with the views of ancient thinkers.
Subject (그의 철학) + Topic Marker (은/는) + Object (고대 사상가들) + Particle (의) + Noun (견해) + Particle (와/과) + Adverb (상당히) + Adjective (비슷한) + Noun (맥락) + Verb (지니고 있다).
이 두 문화 현상은 표면적으로는 이질적이지만, 근본적인 사회적 기능 면에서는 유사한 점이 발견된다.
Although these two cultural phenomena are heterogeneous on the surface, similar points are found in terms of their fundamental social functions.
Subject (이 두 문화 현상) + Topic Marker (은/는) + Adverb (표면적으로는) + Adjective (이질적이지만) + Conjunction (이지만) + Noun (근본적인 사회적 기능) + Particle (면) + Particle (에서는) + Adjective (유사한) + Noun (점) + Verb (발견된다).
그녀의 예술 세계는 낭만주의와 비슷한 정서를 공유하면서도, 독자적인 미학을 구축했다.
Her artistic world shares a similar sentiment with Romanticism, yet it has established its own unique aesthetics.
Subject (그녀의 예술 세계) + Topic Marker (은/는) + Object (낭만주의) + Particle (와/과) + Adjective (비슷한) + Noun (정서) + Verb (공유하면서도) + Conjunction (면서도) + Adverb (독자적인) + Noun (미학) + Verb (구축했다).
두 경제 모델은 시장 메커니즘에 대한 가정에서 유사한 출발점을 갖는다.
The two economic models have similar starting points in their assumptions about market mechanisms.
Subject (두 경제 모델) + Topic Marker (은/는) + Noun (시장 메커니즘) + Particle (에 대한) + Noun (가정) + Particle (에서) + Adjective (유사한) + Noun (출발점) + Verb (갖는다).
이 두 정치적 사안은 겉으로는 달라 보이지만, 그 이면에는 비슷한 정치적 계산이 깔려 있다.
These two political issues appear different on the surface, but behind them lie similar political calculations.
Subject (이 두 정치적 사안) + Topic Marker (은/는) + Adverb (겉으로는) + Adjective (달라 보이지만) + Conjunction (지만) + Noun (그 이면) + Particle (에는) + Adjective (비슷한) + Noun (정치적 계산) + Verb (깔려 있다).
그의 작품은 고전주의와 비슷한 구조를 취하지만, 현대적인 감수성을 반영한다.
His works adopt a structure similar to classicism, but reflect a modern sensibility.
Subject (그의 작품) + Topic Marker (은/는) + Object (고전주의) + Particle (와/과) + Adjective (비슷한) + Noun (구조) + Verb (취하지만) + Conjunction (지만) + Adjective (현대적인) + Noun (감수성) + Verb (반영한다).
이 두 가지 과학적 방법론은 데이터 분석 방식에서 유사한 원칙을 따른다.
These two scientific methodologies follow similar principles in their data analysis methods.
Subject (이 두 가지 과학적 방법론) + Topic Marker (은/는) + Noun (데이터 분석 방식) + Particle (에서) + Adjective (유사한) + Noun (원칙) + Verb (따른다).
그녀의 연설은 과거의 위대한 연설가들과 비슷한 감동을 주었으나, 내용은 더욱 혁신적이었다.
Her speech gave a similar sense of inspiration to great orators of the past, but its content was more innovative.
Subject (그녀의 연설) + Topic Marker (은/는) + Object (과거의 위대한 연설가들) + Particle (과/와) + Adjective (비슷한) + Noun (감동) + Verb (주었으나) + Conjunction (으나) + Noun (내용) + Adverb (더욱) + Adjective (혁신적이었다).
그는 마치 시대를 앞서간 예술가처럼, 당대의 다른 작가들과는 비슷한 듯하면서도 확연히 구분되는 독창성을 보여주었다.
He showed an originality that was distinctly different, yet seemed similar to other writers of his time, much like an artist ahead of his era.
Subject (그) + Adverb (마치) + Noun (시대) + Particle (를) + Verb (앞서간) + Noun (예술가) + Particle (처럼) + Object (당대의 다른 작가들) + Particle (과/와) + Particle (는) + Adjective (비슷한) + Adverbial ending (듯하면서도) + Adverb (확연히) + Verb (구분되는) + Noun (독창성) + Verb (보여주었다).
이 두 가지 분석 방법론은 복잡한 현상을 이해하는 데 있어 유사한 접근 방식을 취하지만, 그 결과 해석에 있어서는 현저한 차이를 드러낸다.
These two analytical methodologies adopt similar approaches to understanding complex phenomena, but reveal a significant difference in the interpretation of their results.
Subject (이 두 가지 분석 방법론) + Topic Marker (은/는) + Noun (복잡한 현상) + Particle (을/를) + Verb (이해하는 데) + Particle (있어서) + Adjective (유사한) + Noun (접근 방식) + Verb (취하지만) + Conjunction (지만) + Noun (그 결과) + Particle (해석) + Particle (에 있어서는) + Adjective (현저한) + Noun (차이) + Verb (드러낸다).
그녀의 문체는 고전적인 서술 방식과 비슷한 골격을 가지면서도, 현대적인 감각을 불어넣어 독자들에게 신선한 경험을 선사한다.
Her writing style has a framework similar to classical narrative methods, yet it breathes a modern sensibility, offering readers a fresh experience.
Subject (그녀의 문체) + Topic Marker (은/는) + Object (고전적인 서술 방식) + Particle (과/와) + Adjective (비슷한) + Noun (골격) + Verb (가지면서도) + Conjunction (면서도) + Adjective (현대적인) + Noun (감각) + Verb (불어넣어) + Noun (독자들) + Particle (에게) + Adjective (신선한) + Noun (경험) + Verb (선사한다).
두 예술가의 작품은 시각적으로는 유사한 표현 기법을 사용하지만, 그 내면에 담긴 철학적 메시지는 사뭇 다르다.
The works of the two artists use similar visual techniques, but the philosophical message contained within them is vastly different.
Subject (두 예술가의 작품) + Topic Marker (은/는) + Adverb (시각적으로는) + Adjective (유사한) + Noun (표현 기법) + Verb (사용하지만) + Conjunction (지만) + Noun (그 내면) + Particle (에) + Verb (담긴) + Noun (철학적 메시지) + Particle (은/는) + Adverb (사뭇) + Adjective (다르다).
이 두 가지 이론적 접근법은 문제의 본질을 파악하는 데 비슷한 통찰력을 제공하지만, 적용 범위와 한계점에서는 명확한 차이를 보인다.
These two theoretical approaches offer similar insights into grasping the essence of the problem, but show clear differences in their scope of application and limitations.
Subject (이 두 가지 이론적 접근법) + Topic Marker (은/는) + Noun (문제) + Particle (의) + Noun (본질) + Particle (을/를) + Verb (파악하는 데) + Adjective (비슷한) + Noun (통찰력) + Verb (제공하지만) + Conjunction (지만) + Noun (그 적용 범위) + Particle (와/과) + Noun (한계점) + Particle (에서는) + Adjective (명확한) + Noun (차이) + Verb (보인다).
그의 글쓰기 스타일은 19세기 고전 소설과 비슷한 구조를 띠지만, 현대적인 어휘 선택과 속도감 있는 전개로 독자를 사로잡는다.
His writing style bears a structure similar to 19th-century classical novels, but captivates the reader with its modern vocabulary choices and fast-paced development.
Subject (그의 글쓰기 스타일) + Topic Marker (은/는) + Noun (19세기 고전 소설) + Particle (와/과) + Adjective (비슷한) + Noun (구조) + Verb (띠지만) + Conjunction (지만) + Adjective (현대적인) + Noun (어휘 선택) + Particle (과/와) + Noun (속도감) + Particle (있는) + Noun (전개) + Particle (로) + Noun (독자) + Particle (를) + Verb (사로잡는다).
이 두 문화권의 신화는 창조와 관련된 유사한 모티프를 공유하고 있으나, 각 문화의 고유한 세계관을 반영하는 차이점도 뚜렷하다.
The myths of these two cultural spheres share similar motifs related to creation, but the differences reflecting each culture's unique worldview are also distinct.
Subject (이 두 문화권) + Particle (의) + Noun (신화) + Particle (는) + Noun (창조) + Particle (와/과) + Verb (관련된) + Adjective (유사한) + Noun (모티프) + Verb (공유하고 있으나) + Conjunction (으나) + Noun (각 문화) + Particle (의) + Adjective (고유한) + Noun (세계관) + Particle (을/를) + Verb (반영하는) + Noun (차이점) + Particle (도) + Adjective (뚜렷하다).
그의 연기 스타일은 전통적인 방식과 비슷한 틀을 유지하면서도, 자신만의 독특한 해석을 가미하여 신선함을 불어넣는다.
His acting style maintains a framework similar to traditional methods, yet it infuses freshness by adding his own unique interpretation.
Subject (그의 연기 스타일) + Topic Marker (은/는) + Noun (전통적인 방식) + Particle (과/와) + Adjective (비슷한) + Noun (틀) + Verb (유지하면서도) + Conjunction (면서도) + Adverb (자신만의) + Adjective (독특한) + Noun (해석) + Verb (가미하여) + Adjective (신선함) + Verb (불어넣는다).
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
— Similar to what.
이 맛은 무엇과 비슷해요? (What does this taste similar to?)
— To look similar.
그 두 사람은 매우 비슷하게 생겼어요. (Those two people look very similar.)
— Similar points or aspects.
두 이야기에는 비슷한 점이 많습니다. (There are many similar points in these two stories.)
— To sound similar.
그 새의 노래 소리가 피리 소리와 비슷하게 들린다. (The bird's song sounds similar to a flute.)
— Similar things.
이것과 비슷한 것을 찾고 있어요. (I am looking for something similar to this.)
— Similar feeling or impression.
이 영화는 전에 본 영화와 비슷한 느낌을 줘요. (This movie gives a similar feeling to a movie I saw before.)
— Almost similar.
두 가지 옵션은 거의 비슷해요. (The two options are almost similar.)
— Very similar.
그녀는 엄마와 많이 비슷해요. (She is very similar to her mother.)
— A little similar.
이 두 색깔은 조금 비슷해요. (These two colors are a little similar.)
— Not similar at all.
이 두 가지는 전혀 비슷하지 않아요. (These two are not similar at all.)
Idioms & Expressions
— To be familiar; to look similar to something one has seen before.
이 풍경은 어릴 때 살던 곳과 비슷해서 눈에 익다.
Informal— To be exactly alike; a carbon copy.
그 아이는 아버지와 판박이다. (That child is a carbon copy of his father.) This is a stronger form of similarity, almost like '같다' but often used for appearance.
Informal— To be very similar; to be like drawing a picture (comparing two things that are virtually identical).
이 두 디자인은 그림 그리기 수준으로 비슷하다.
Informal— Six of one, half a dozen of the other; both are equally bad or similar in a negative way.
두 후보 모두 문제가 많아서 도긴개긴이다. (Both candidates have many problems, so it's six of one, half a dozen of the other.)
Informal— Vastly different; a world apart. (This is an antonymous idiom, used to highlight extreme difference when '비슷하다' is not applicable).
두 사람의 의견은 천차만별이었다.
Neutral— To be in a similar (often bad) situation.
그 회사도 우리처럼 비슷한 꼴을 하고 있다.
Informal— This refers to social class (gold spoon vs. dirt spoon). While not directly related to '비슷하다', comparing someone's background to these terms implies a similarity or difference in their starting point.
그는 금수저처럼 태어났지만, 노력하는 모습은 흙수저와 비슷하다.
Informal— To cover up one problem with another; a similar, often flawed, solution applied repeatedly.
이 문제에 대한 해결책이 계속 돌려막기식이라 근본적인 해결이 안 된다. (The solutions for this problem are constantly similar, like rotating the same flawed approach, so there's no fundamental resolution.)
Informal— To be like brothers; to be very close or similar in relationship.
우리 둘은 형제 같다. (We two are like brothers.) This implies a deep similarity in bond or feeling.
Informal— Blood is thicker than water; family ties are stronger than other relationships. This implies a fundamental similarity or connection based on kinship.
피는 물보다 진하다는 말처럼, 가족은 역시 다르다.
NeutralWord Family
Adjectives
Related
Memorize It
Mnemonic
Imagine two apples that look very 'bee-sweet' (비슷) to each other because they are both perfectly ripe and delicious. The 'bee' sound can remind you of '비' (bi), and 'sweet' sounds like '슷' (seut).
Visual Association
Picture two identical twins wearing the same outfit. They look so 'similar' (비슷하다) that it's hard to tell them apart.
Word Web
Challenge
Try to describe three things in your room that are 'similar' (비슷하다) to each other. For example, 'My two pens are '비슷하다' in color,' or 'My two books are '비슷하다' in size.'
Word Origin
The word '비슷하다' is believed to have originated from the Middle Korean word '븨슷다' (bwisesthata). Over time, through phonetic changes and simplification, it evolved into the modern Korean '비슷하다'.
Original meaning: The original meaning likely conveyed a sense of being close or adjacent, implying a degree of resemblance.
KoreanicCultural Context
When using '비슷하다', be mindful of the context. While generally neutral, directly comparing people's appearances can sometimes be sensitive depending on the relationship and the specific comparison being made. However, comparing objects, tastes, or abstract concepts is usually safe.
In English, we use words like 'similar,' 'alike,' 'resemble,' 'comparable,' and 'akin to.' The Korean word '비슷하다' covers much of this semantic range, making it a highly useful adjective for learners.
Practice in Real Life
Real-World Contexts
Comparing appearances of people or objects.
- 이 두 사람은 누가 봐도 비슷하다.
- 그녀는 엄마와 정말 비슷하게 생겼다.
- 이 두 가방은 디자인이 비슷해요.
Comparing tastes or smells.
- 이 음식은 전에 먹었던 것과 맛이 비슷하다.
- 이 향수는 전에 쓰던 향수와 향이 비슷해요.
- 커피 맛이 좀 쓴 편인데, 전에 마셨던 커피와 비슷하다.
Comparing situations or events.
- 오늘 날씨는 어제와 비슷하다.
- 이번 프로젝트는 지난번과 상황이 비슷해요.
- 그때와 지금은 비슷한 점이 많다.
Comparing opinions or feelings.
- 내 생각은 당신 생각과 비슷해요.
- 두 친구는 성격이 비슷해서 잘 맞는다.
- 그의 감정은 나와 비슷했다.
Comparing abstract concepts like art, music, or ideas.
- 이 두 그림은 스타일이 비슷하다.
- 이 노래는 제가 좋아하는 노래와 멜로디가 비슷해요.
- 두 이론은 비슷한 원리를 가지고 있다.
Conversation Starters
"오늘 날씨가 어제랑 비슷하지 않아요?"
"이 음식 맛이 어디서 먹어본 거랑 좀 비슷한 것 같은데, 혹시 아세요?"
"그 옷 디자인, 어디서 본 거랑 되게 비슷하게 생기지 않았어요?"
"두 사람의 의견이 비슷해서 놀랐어요. 당신 생각은 어떠세요?"
"이 두 장소는 분위기가 비슷해서 헷갈릴 때가 있어요."
Journal Prompts
오늘 하루 동안 당신이 경험했던 것들 중에서 서로 비슷한 점이 있었던 것을 세 가지 적어보고, 그 이유를 설명해보세요.
당신의 친구나 가족 중에 당신과 성격이나 취미가 비슷한 사람이 있다면, 어떤 점들이 비슷한지 구체적으로 적어보세요.
최근에 보았던 영화나 드라마 중에서 당신이 예전에 보았던 다른 작품과 비슷한 느낌을 받았던 것이 있다면, 제목과 비슷한 점을 설명해보세요.
오늘 당신이 들었던 음악 중에서 비슷한 분위기나 멜로디를 가진 곡이 있다면, 그 곡들을 적고 어떤 점이 비슷했는지 묘사해보세요.
Summary
'비슷하다' is a fundamental Korean adjective that means 'to be similar' or 'to resemble.' It is used to express that two or more things, people, or situations share common characteristics or appearances without being identical. Mastering this word is crucial for making everyday comparisons in Korean.
- 비슷하다 means to be similar or resemble.
- Used to compare things with common characteristics.
- Versatile for objects, people, ideas, and situations.
- Essential for everyday Korean comparisons.
Related Content
This Word in Other Languages
Related Grammar Rules
More general words
몇몇
A2An unspecified small number of; some or a few.
조금
A1A little/a bit
적게
A1A little / Few
약간
A2A little; slightly; somewhat.
많이
A1A lot/much
잠시
A2For a moment; briefly.
잠깐
A2For a short time; a moment.
아까
A2A little while ago, earlier.
대해
A2About, concerning.
~에 대해서
A2Concerning or regarding a particular subject; about.
