품절 in 30 Seconds

  • The Korean word 품절 (pum-jeol) means 'sold out' or 'out of stock'.
  • It indicates that all available units of a product have been sold.
  • Commonly used in retail, online shopping, and when discussing unavailable items.
  • It is a noun and describes the state of a product.

The Korean word 품절 (pronounced pum-jeol) is a noun that directly translates to 'sold out' or 'out of stock' in English. It is used when all available items of a particular product have been sold and are no longer available for purchase. This term is very common in retail environments, online shopping, and even when discussing limited edition items or popular goods that quickly sell out.

Meaning
All of a product's stock has been sold.
Usage
Commonly used in shopping contexts, online and offline, to indicate unavailability of a product.
Part of Speech
Noun

You'll frequently encounter this word when browsing online stores, especially during sales events or when a popular item is released. For example, if you're looking to buy a new smartphone and it's a highly anticipated model, it might quickly go 품절. Similarly, in physical stores, signs might be posted indicating that an item is 품절. It's a straightforward term that clearly communicates the unavailability of a product due to high demand or depletion of inventory.

이 신발은 이미 품절되었습니다.

This shoe is already sold out.

Understanding 품절 is essential for anyone shopping in Korea or interacting with Korean e-commerce platforms. It helps manage expectations and avoid disappointment when a desired item is no longer available. The word itself is quite descriptive, with '품' (pum) referring to 'goods' or 'products' and '절' (jeol) meaning 'cut off' or 'end,' literally implying the 'end of goods.' This makes the meaning quite intuitive once you break it down.

Consider a scenario where you're at a popular cafe and a specific pastry is advertised, but when you ask for it, the staff tells you it's 품절. This means they've sold all of them for the day. It's a common and practical term in everyday Korean life, especially in consumer settings.

Using 품절 (pum-jeol) in sentences is quite straightforward, as it functions as a noun indicating a state of being sold out. It often appears after the item or product it refers to, or in sentences describing the situation of a product's availability.

Basic Structure
[Item] + 은/는 + 품절 + 입니다/되었어요.
Example
이 셔츠는 품절입니다. (This shirt is sold out.)
Another Example
원하던 색상이 품절되었어요. (The color I wanted is sold out.)

You can also use it in questions, for instance, asking if something is sold out. A common way to do this is:

이 제품은 품절인가요?

Is this product sold out?

In a slightly more formal context, perhaps in a customer service announcement, you might see:

죄송합니다만, 해당 상품은 현재 품절 상태입니다.

We apologize, but the product is currently in a sold-out state.

When discussing a popular item that quickly sells out, you can use it with adverbs like '빠르게' (quickly) or '금방' (soon/quickly):

Quickly Sold Out
한정판 운동화가 금방 품절되었어요. (The limited edition sneakers sold out quickly.)
Completely Sold Out
인기 있는 책은 거의 품절되기 일쑤입니다. (Popular books are almost always sold out.)

You can also use it in contexts where you express your desire or disappointment related to a sold-out item:

제가 사고 싶었던 옷이 품절이라니 너무 아쉬워요.

It's so disappointing that the clothes I wanted to buy are sold out.

The key is to remember that 품절 describes the state of the product. It's not typically used as a verb to describe the action of selling out, but rather the resulting condition. However, in common speech, phrases like '품절되다' (to become sold out) are very frequent and essentially function similarly.

You'll hear the word 품절 (pum-jeol) in a variety of everyday situations, primarily related to commerce and availability. Its prevalence makes it a crucial term for anyone engaging in shopping or discussing products in Korean.

Retail Stores
When you go to a clothing store, electronics shop, or even a supermarket, and ask for a specific item, the staff might inform you, "죄송합니다. 그 상품은 품절입니다." (I'm sorry, that product is sold out.) You might also see signs on shelves or displays stating "품절".
Online Shopping
This is perhaps where you'll encounter 품절 most frequently. On Korean e-commerce websites like Coupang, Gmarket, or Naver Shopping, product listings will clearly indicate if an item is 품절. Often, the 'Add to Cart' button will be disabled or replaced with a 'Sold Out' notification.
Restaurants and Cafes
If a particular dish, drink, or dessert is very popular and they run out of ingredients or servings for the day, you might hear, "오늘 이 메뉴는 품절되었습니다." (This menu item is sold out today.)
Concerts and Events
Tickets for popular concerts, musicals, or sporting events can sell out very quickly. Announcements or website updates will say, "티켓이 모두 품절되었습니다." (All tickets are sold out.)
Limited Edition Items
When special collaborations or limited-run products are released, they are often in high demand and can become 품절 within minutes or hours. Discussions about these items will frequently use the word 품절.

You might also hear it in casual conversations among friends or family when discussing shopping experiences:

어제 그 신상 가방 사려고 했는데, 이미 품절이라 못 샀어.

I tried to buy that new bag yesterday, but it was already sold out, so I couldn't get it.

In essence, any situation where a product's availability is a concern, especially when that availability is zero, is a prime context for hearing and using 품절.

While 품절 (pum-jeol) is a relatively simple term, learners might make a few common mistakes, often related to its grammatical function or nuances in usage.

Mistake 1: Using it as a verb
Learners might try to use 품절 as if it were a verb meaning 'to sell out' in English, like "I 품절 the book." In Korean, 품절 is a noun. While the verb form 품절되다 (to become sold out) exists and is frequently used, simply saying 품절 refers to the state of being sold out. So, instead of saying "I 품절ed it," you would say "It is sold out" (품절입니다) or "It became sold out" (품절되었습니다).
Mistake 2: Confusing it with 'out of stock' for services
품절 specifically refers to physical goods or products that have run out of stock. It is not typically used for services that are fully booked or unavailable. For example, you wouldn't say a concert ticket is 품절 if all the seats are taken; rather, the tickets themselves are 품절. Similarly, a restaurant service being fully booked for the night wouldn't be described as 품절, but a specific dish might be.
Mistake 3: Incorrect particle usage
When stating that something is sold out, the topic particle 은/는 is typically used with the item. For example, "그 옷은 품절입니다." (That clothing is sold out.) Using the subject particle 이/가 might sound unnatural in this context. For instance, "그 옷이 품절입니다" is grammatically possible but less common than using 은/는 to mark it as the topic being discussed.
Mistake 4: Overusing 품절되다
While 품절되다 is correct and common, sometimes simply stating the noun 품절 is sufficient and more direct, especially in written notices or brief explanations. For instance, a sign might just say "품절" rather than "품절되었습니다." Overusing the verb form might make sentences slightly wordier than necessary.

To avoid these mistakes, remember that 품절 is the state of being sold out. Use 품절입니다 or 품절되었어요 to describe this state. Reserve 품절 for physical products. Pay attention to the particles used with the item, and consider when the noun form is more concise than the verb form.

While 품절 (pum-jeol) is the most common and direct term for 'sold out,' there are related concepts and words that describe similar situations or nuances of unavailability.

매진 (Maejin)
Comparison: 매진 is very similar to 품절 and is often used interchangeably, especially for tickets, seats, or reservations. While 품절 typically refers to goods running out of stock, 매진 emphasizes that everything available has been sold or taken. For example, concert tickets are more likely to be described as 매진 (sold out completely) than 품절.
Example: 콘서트 티켓이 매진되었습니다. (The concert tickets are sold out.)
재고 없음 (Jaego eop-eum)
Comparison: This phrase literally means 'no stock' or 'out of inventory.' It's a more descriptive and less idiomatic way of saying something is sold out. While 품절 is a noun indicating the state, '재고 없음' describes the condition of having no stock. It's often used in inventory management or more technical contexts.
Example: 죄송합니다, 해당 상품은 현재 재고가 없습니다. (I'm sorry, that product is currently out of stock/has no inventory.)
완판 (Wanpan)
Comparison: 완판 means 'completely sold out' or 'sell-through.' It implies that all units produced or stocked have been sold, often quickly and successfully. It carries a positive connotation of high demand and successful sales. While 품절 simply states unavailability, 완판 highlights the completeness of the sale.
Example: 이번 신제품은 출시 하루 만에 완판되었습니다. (This new product completely sold out within a day of its release.)
없음 (Eop-eum) / 다 나갔어요 (Da nagasseoyo)
Comparison: These are more informal and general ways to say something is gone or unavailable. '없음' simply means 'none' or 'not present.' '다 나갔어요' literally means 'all went out.' They are less specific than 품절 and might be used in very casual conversation when the exact term isn't necessary.
Example: (Asking for a specific cookie) "그거 이제 없어요." (That's not available anymore.) or "그거 다 나갔어요." (All of those are gone.)
일시 품절 (Ilsi pumjeol)
Comparison: This means 'temporarily sold out.' It implies that the item is currently unavailable but is expected to be restocked. This is a more nuanced version of 품절, indicating a temporary situation.
Example: 해당 상품은 현재 일시 품절 상태이며, 다음 주에 재입고될 예정입니다. (This product is currently temporarily sold out and is expected to be restocked next week.)

Understanding these distinctions helps you choose the most appropriate word or phrase for the context. For general goods being out of stock, 품절 is your go-to term. For tickets or seats, 매진 is common. If you want to emphasize a complete sell-out with success, use 완판. And for temporary unavailability, 일시 품절 is precise.

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

The character '품' (品) itself visually represents three mouths, suggesting a large quantity or abundance of something, which makes its combination with '절' (cut off) quite impactful – implying a sudden stop to a large supply.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /pum.d͡ʑʌl/
US /pum.d͡ʑʌl/
First syllable (품 - pum)
Rhymes With
절 (jeol) 열 (yeol) 혈 (hyeol) 결 (gyeol) 열 (yeol) 철 (cheol) 널 (neol) 몰 (mol)
Common Errors
  • Pronouncing '품' too long.
  • Not clearly distinguishing the 'j' sound in '절'.
  • Incorrectly pronouncing the final 'l' sound in '절'.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 2/5

CEFR A2 level. The word '품절' is straightforward and commonly encountered in everyday reading materials like online shops, product descriptions, and simple notices. Understanding its context is usually easy.

Writing 2/5

CEFR A2 level. Learners can easily incorporate '품절' into basic sentences to describe unavailable items. More complex sentence structures involving reasons or consequences might require B1 level.

Speaking 2/5

CEFR A2 level. Pronouncing '품절' correctly is key. Using it in simple questions like '이거 품절이에요?' or statements like '품절됐어요' is achievable at this level.

Listening 2/5

CEFR A2 level. Recognizing '품절' when spoken is important for shopping scenarios. The pronunciation is distinct enough to be identified in context.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

상품 (sangpum) - product 없다 (eopda) - to not exist, to not have 이다 (ida) - to be 되다 (doeda) - to become

Learn Next

매진 (maejin) - sold out (esp. tickets) 완판 (wanpan) - completely sold out 재고 (jaego) - stock, inventory 입고 (ipgo) - receiving stock

Advanced

공급망 (gonggeummang) - supply chain 수요 (suyo) - demand 희소성 (huisoseong) - scarcity 재고 관리 (jaego gwalli) - inventory management

Grammar to Know

Using the passive form '-되다' (to become) to indicate a change of state.

품절되다 (to become sold out). This is common for describing the transition from available to unavailable.

Particles 은/는 and 이/가 with nouns.

이 셔츠는 품절입니다. (Topic marker 은/는 emphasizes the shirt as the topic.)

Expressing reasons using '-어서/아서' or '-기 때문에'.

인기가 많아서 품절되었어요. (Because it's popular, it became sold out.)

Using adverbs to describe the speed of selling out.

금방 품절되다 (to sell out quickly), 즉시 품절되다 (to sell out immediately).

Conditional sentences using '-라면' or '-면'.

만약 품절이라면, 다른 것을 찾아볼게요. (If it's sold out, I'll look for something else.)

Examples by Level

1

이거 품절이에요?

Is this sold out?

Simple question form using '이에요?'

2

품절

Sold out

Single word used as a notice.

3

모자 품절.

Hat sold out.

Noun + noun (item) + sold out.

4

죄송합니다, 품절입니다.

Sorry, it's sold out.

Apology + sold out status.

5

이거 없어요?

Don't you have this?

Informal way to ask if something is available.

6

다 나갔어요.

All gone.

Informal expression for 'sold out'.

7

품절 됐어요.

It became sold out.

Past tense of 'to become sold out'.

8

다른 거 있어요?

Do you have anything else?

Asking for alternatives.

1

이 셔츠는 이미 품절이에요.

This shirt is already sold out.

Using '이미' (already) with '품절이에요'.

2

제가 사고 싶었던 책이 품절돼서 아쉬워요.

I'm disappointed because the book I wanted to buy is sold out.

Expressing disappointment using '아쉬워요' after '품절돼서'.

3

온라인 쇼핑몰에서 품절이라고 나왔어요.

It showed as sold out on the online shopping mall.

Using '품절이라고 나왔어요' to describe online status.

4

인기 많은 상품이라 금방 품절돼요.

It's a popular item, so it sells out quickly.

Using '금방' (quickly) and the present tense '돼요' for general truth.

5

혹시 이 사이즈 품절인가요?

Is this size perhaps sold out?

Using '혹시' (perhaps/by any chance) for a polite inquiry.

6

죄송합니다만, 해당 상품은 품절입니다.

We apologize, but that product is sold out.

More formal phrasing using '죄송합니다만' and '해당 상품'.

7

매진이라는 표시를 봤어요.

I saw a sign that said 'Sold Out'.

Using '매진' and '봤어요' (saw).

8

이거 재고 없어요?

Don't you have stock of this?

Using '재고 없어요?' (no stock?)

1

그 한정판 운동화는 출시되자마자 완판되었다.

Those limited edition sneakers sold out completely as soon as they were released.

Using '완판되다' (completely sold out) in the past tense and '되자마자' (as soon as).

2

안타깝게도 우리가 찾던 모델은 이미 품절 상태였다.

Unfortunately, the model we were looking for was already in a sold-out state.

Using '안타깝게도' (unfortunately) and '품절 상태' (sold-out state).

3

행사 티켓이 매진되어 참석하지 못했다.

The event tickets were sold out, so I couldn't attend.

Using '매진되다' (tickets sold out) and explaining the consequence with '못했다'.

4

재고가 부족하여 일시 품절 처리되었습니다.

Due to insufficient stock, it has been marked as temporarily sold out.

Using '일시 품절' (temporarily sold out) and explaining the reason '재고 부족'.

5

이 제품은 수요가 많아 언제든지 품절될 수 있습니다.

This product has high demand, so it could be sold out at any time.

Using '수요가 많다' (high demand) and the potential future '될 수 있습니다'.

6

온라인 매장에서 품절된 상품을 오프라인 매장에서 찾으려고 했으나 없었다.

I tried to find the item that was sold out in the online store at the offline store, but it wasn't there.

Contrasting online and offline availability and using '없었다' (wasn't there).

7

계속 품절이라 다른 브랜드로 눈을 돌려야 했다.

It was continuously sold out, so I had to turn my attention to another brand.

Using '계속' (continuously) and '다른 브랜드로 눈을 돌리다' (turn attention to another brand).

8

만약 품절이라면, 입고 알림 서비스를 신청할 수 있나요?

If it's sold out, can I sign up for the restock notification service?

Conditional sentence using '만약 ~라면' (if) and asking about a service.

1

그 희귀 음반은 발매되자마자 수집가들 사이에서 순식간에 품절되었다.

That rare record sold out instantly among collectors as soon as it was released.

Using '희귀 음반' (rare record), '수집가들' (collectors), and '순식간에' (instantly).

2

계절 한정 상품이라 재고 소진 시 추가 생산은 없을 예정이라고 한다.

It's a seasonal limited product, and they say there are no plans for additional production once the stock is depleted.

Using '계절 한정 상품' (seasonal limited product), '재고 소진' (stock depletion), and reported speech '~라고 한다'.

3

인기 공연의 티켓이 매진된 후 암표상이 기승을 부렸다.

After the popular performance tickets sold out, scalpers ran rampant.

Using '암표상' (scalpers) and '기승을 부렸다' (ran rampant/prevailed).

4

현재 해당 제품은 일시 품절 상태이며, 재입고 일정은 미정입니다.

The product is currently temporarily sold out, and the restocking schedule is undecided.

Using '일시 품절 상태' and '재입고 일정은 미정' (restocking schedule undecided).

5

그 브랜드의 신제품은 항상 출시 초기에 품절되는 경향이 있다.

That brand's new products tend to sell out early in their release.

Using '출시 초기' (early in release) and '경향이 있다' (tend to).

6

온라인 플랫폼에서는 품절된 상품이라도, 오프라인 매장에는 소량 남아 있을 가능성이 있다.

Even if a product is sold out on the online platform, there's a possibility a small quantity might remain in offline stores.

Using '~라 하더라도' (even if) and '가능성이 있다' (there is a possibility).

7

제품의 희소성 때문에 일부 소비자들은 의도적으로 품절 사태를 유발하기도 한다.

Due to the product's rarity, some consumers intentionally cause a sold-out situation.

Using '희소성' (rarity), '의도적으로' (intentionally), and '품절 사태를 유발하다' (cause a sold-out situation).

8

만약 품절 사태가 장기화된다면, 소비자들의 불만이 고조될 수밖에 없다.

If the sold-out situation becomes prolonged, consumer dissatisfaction is bound to increase.

Using '장기화되다' (become prolonged) and '불만이 고조되다' (dissatisfaction increases).

1

그 예술가의 한정판 에디션은 공개되자마자 전 세계적으로 매진 사례를 기록했다.

The artist's limited edition sold out globally as soon as it was unveiled, setting a precedent for sell-outs.

Using '예술가' (artist), '한정판 에디션' (limited edition), '전 세계적으로' (globally), and '매진 사례를 기록하다' (record a sell-out case).

2

경쟁사의 공격적인 마케팅으로 인해 당사 제품의 재고가 예상보다 빠르게 소진되어 품절 사태를 맞이했다.

Due to the competitor's aggressive marketing, our product's inventory was depleted faster than expected, leading to a sold-out situation.

Using '경쟁사' (competitor), '공격적인 마케팅' (aggressive marketing), '재고 소진' (inventory depletion), and '품절 사태를 맞이하다' (face a sold-out situation).

3

이번 시즌의 컬렉션은 완판을 목표로 삼았으나, 일부 품목은 예상치 못한 수요 증가로 인해 조기 품절될 것으로 보인다.

This season's collection aimed for a complete sell-out, but some items are expected to sell out early due to an unexpected surge in demand.

Using '완판을 목표로 삼다' (aim for a complete sell-out), '품목' (items), '예상치 못한 수요 증가' (unexpected surge in demand), and '조기 품절' (early sell-out).

4

글로벌 공급망 불안정으로 인해 핵심 부품의 일시 품절이 빈번하게 발생하고 있으며, 이는 생산 차질로 이어지고 있다.

Due to global supply chain instability, temporary shortages of key components are occurring frequently, leading to production disruptions.

Using '글로벌 공급망 불안정' (global supply chain instability), '핵심 부품' (key components), '생산 차질' (production disruption), and '이어지고 있다' (is leading to).

5

소비자들의 구매 심리를 자극하기 위해, 한정 수량 및 기간 한정 판매를 통해 의도적인 품절 효과를 연출하기도 한다.

To stimulate consumers' purchasing psychology, an intentional sold-out effect is sometimes created through limited quantities and limited-time sales.

Using '구매 심리' (purchasing psychology), '자극하다' (stimulate), '한정 수량' (limited quantity), '기간 한정 판매' (limited-time sale), and '품절 효과를 연출하다' (create a sold-out effect).

6

온라인 판매 채널에서의 품절은 즉각적으로 오프라인 매장으로 파급되어, 전반적인 판매량 감소를 초래할 수 있다.

A sold-out situation on the online sales channel can immediately ripple to offline stores, potentially leading to a decrease in overall sales volume.

Using '판매 채널' (sales channel), '즉각적으로 파급되다' (immediately ripple/spread), and '판매량 감소를 초래하다' (lead to a decrease in sales volume).

7

이러한 품절 사태는 브랜드 이미지에 부정적인 영향을 미칠 수 있으며, 고객 충성도를 약화시키는 요인이 된다.

Such sold-out situations can negatively impact the brand image and become a factor that weakens customer loyalty.

Using '부정적인 영향' (negative impact), '고객 충성도' (customer loyalty), and '약화시키는 요인이 되다' (become a factor that weakens).

8

판매 전략 수립 시, 잠재적인 품절 가능성을 염두에 두고 재고 관리 및 생산 계획을 면밀히 검토해야 한다.

When establishing sales strategies, potential sold-out possibilities must be kept in mind, and inventory management and production plans should be meticulously reviewed.

Using '판매 전략 수립' (establishing sales strategies), '잠재적인 가능성' (potential possibility), '염두에 두다' (keep in mind), and '면밀히 검토하다' (meticulously review).

1

시장의 과열된 수요를 방증하듯, 해당 제품은 출시 첫날부터 재고가 동이 나면서 전례 없는 품절 현상을 보였다.

As if to attest to the overheated market demand, the product experienced an unprecedented sold-out phenomenon, with inventory depleted from the very first day of its release.

Using '과열된 수요' (overheated demand), '방증하듯' (as if to attest to), '재고가 동이 나다' (inventory is depleted), and '전례 없는 현상' (unprecedented phenomenon).

2

수익성 증대를 위한 전략으로 의도적인 희소성 부여를 통해 품절 효과를 극대화하였으나, 이는 장기적으로 브랜드 신뢰도 하락이라는 부작용을 초래할 수 있다.

As a strategy to increase profitability, the sold-out effect was maximized by intentionally conferring scarcity, but this can lead to the side effect of a decline in brand credibility in the long term.

Using '수익성 증대' (increase profitability), '희소성 부여' (conferring scarcity), '극대화하다' (maximize), '브랜드 신뢰도 하락' (decline in brand credibility), and '부작용' (side effect).

3

글로벌 공급망의 병목 현상으로 인한 핵심 부품의 만성적인 품절은 생산 계획의 예측 불가능성을 증대시키며, 이는 결국 소비자 만족도 저하로 귀결된다.

Chronic shortages of key components due to bottlenecks in the global supply chain increase the unpredictability of production plans, ultimately resulting in a decrease in consumer satisfaction.

Using '병목 현상' (bottleneck phenomenon), '만성적인 품절' (chronic shortage), '예측 불가능성' (unpredictability), and '소비자 만족도 저하로 귀결되다' (result in a decrease in consumer satisfaction).

4

일부 소비자는 특정 상품의 품절 사태를 정보 비대칭성을 이용한 기회주의적 행태로 간주하며, 이는 시장의 공정성에 대한 의문을 제기한다.

Some consumers regard the sold-out situation of certain products as opportunistic behavior exploiting information asymmetry, which raises questions about market fairness.

Using '정보 비대칭성' (information asymmetry), '기회주의적 행태' (opportunistic behavior), '시장 공정성' (market fairness), and '의문을 제기하다' (raise questions).

5

기업은 일시 품절 상황을 관리함에 있어, 투명한 정보 제공과 신속한 재입고 프로세스 구축을 통해 고객 신뢰를 유지하는 데 주력해야 한다.

In managing temporary sold-out situations, companies must focus on maintaining customer trust through transparent information disclosure and establishing a swift restocking process.

Using '투명한 정보 제공' (transparent information disclosure), '신속한 재입고 프로세스 구축' (establishing a swift restocking process), and '고객 신뢰를 유지하다' (maintain customer trust).

6

완판을 위한 전략은 때때로 과도한 마케팅 경쟁을 촉발하여, 결과적으로 시장의 비효율성을 야기하고 소비자 후생을 저해할 수 있다.

Strategies aimed at complete sell-outs sometimes trigger excessive marketing competition, which can consequently lead to market inefficiency and undermine consumer welfare.

Using '과도한 마케팅 경쟁' (excessive marketing competition), '시장 비효율성' (market inefficiency), and '소비자 후생을 저해하다' (undermine consumer welfare).

7

매진 임박이라는 심리적 압박감은 소비자들의 합리적 판단을 흐리게 하여, 충동 구매를 조장하는 기제로 작용하기도 한다.

The psychological pressure of 'imminent sell-out' can cloud consumers' rational judgment, acting as a mechanism that encourages impulse buying.

Using '매진 임박' (imminent sell-out), '심리적 압박감' (psychological pressure), '합리적 판단을 흐리게 하다' (cloud rational judgment), and '충동 구매를 조장하다' (encourage impulse buying).

8

글로벌 팬덤의 폭발적인 수요를 감당하지 못해 발생한 품절 사태는 브랜드의 글로벌 확장 전략에 있어 중대한 도전 과제가 되고 있다.

The sold-out situation, caused by an inability to meet the explosive demand of a global fandom, has become a significant challenge for the brand's global expansion strategy.

Using '글로벌 팬덤' (global fandom), '폭발적인 수요' (explosive demand), '감당하지 못하다' (unable to meet/handle), and '중대한 도전 과제' (significant challenge).

Common Collocations

이미 품절
금방 품절
품절되다
품절 사태
일시 품절
완전 품절
품절 임박
품절 문의
품절 알림
품절 상품

Common Phrases

이미 품절이에요.

— It's already sold out.

제가 찾던 책은 이미 품절이에요. 너무 아쉬워요.

품절됐어요.

— It got sold out.

그 옷은 인기가 많아서 금방 품절됐어요.

이거 품절인가요?

— Is this sold out?

손님: 저기 있는 가방, 이거 품절인가요? 점원: 네, 죄송합니다. 오늘 다 판매되었습니다.

품절될 수 있어요.

— It might get sold out.

이건 한정판이라서 품절될 수 있어요. 서두르세요.

품절이라서 못 샀어요.

— I couldn't buy it because it was sold out.

그 콘서트 티켓 정말 구하고 싶었는데, 품절이라서 못 샀어요.

품절 예정

— Expected to be sold out.

인기가 많아서 품절 예정이라고 합니다. 미리 구매하세요.

품절 안내

— Sold out notice.

웹사이트에 품절 안내가 공지되었습니다.

품절 대란

— Sold-out frenzy/chaos.

새로운 스마트폰 출시로 품절 대란이 일어났다.

품절 상품 목록

— List of sold-out products.

품절 상품 목록을 확인해 주세요.

품절 여부

— Whether it is sold out or not.

품절 여부를 확인하고 싶습니다.

Often Confused With

품절 vs 매진 (maejin)

While often used interchangeably, '매진' is more commonly used for tickets, seats, or reservations, emphasizing that everything available has been taken. '품절' is more general for goods running out of stock.

품절 vs 재고 없음 (jaego eop-eum)

This is a literal description meaning 'no stock.' '품절' is the noun state of being sold out, whereas '재고 없음' describes the condition of the inventory.

품절 vs 솔드아웃 (sold-out)

This is the English loanword. While understood, '품절' is the native Korean term and is more widely used in formal and general contexts.

Idioms & Expressions

"눈앞에서 품절되다"

— To be sold out right before one's eyes; to miss out on something just as it becomes unavailable.

마지막 남은 케이크를 사려는데, 바로 앞에서 품절되었다.

Informal
"완판 행진"

— A continuous streak of selling out completely; a series of successful sell-outs.

그 브랜드는 신제품 출시마다 완판 행진을 이어가고 있다.

Neutral
"품절 대란을 일으키다"

— To cause a sold-out frenzy or chaos due to extremely high demand.

이 한정판 콜라보 상품은 출시되자마자 품절 대란을 일으켰다.

Informal
"텅텅 비다 (품절)"

— To become completely empty (sold out), emphasizing the lack of remaining stock.

할인 행사 마지막 날, 매대가 텅텅 비었다.

Informal
"재고가 바닥나다 (품절)"

— For stock to run out completely (sold out), reaching the bottom.

인기 상품이라 재고가 바닥나서 더 이상 판매할 수 없습니다.

Neutral
"손사래 치다 (품절)"

— To shake one's head (indicating no, or unavailable), often when informing someone an item is sold out.

손님: 이거 아직 있나요? 점원: (손사래를 치며) 죄송합니다, 그거 다 나갔어요.

Informal
"없어서 못 팔다 (품절)"

— To be unable to sell something because it's unavailable (sold out).

수요는 많은데 생산량이 부족해서 없어서 못 팔고 있어요.

Neutral
"매진 행렬"

— A line or queue of people due to tickets or items being sold out; a rush to buy.

새로운 게임기 출시일에는 매진 행렬이 이어졌다.

Neutral
"품절의 미학"

— The 'aesthetics' or appeal of scarcity; the desirability created by a product being sold out.

일부 명품 브랜드는 일부러 품절의 미학을 추구하기도 한다.

Figurative/Neutral
"재고 관리 실패 (-> 품절)"

— Failure in inventory management, leading to items being sold out.

철저한 재고 관리 실패로 인해 많은 인기 상품이 품절되었다.

Neutral/Negative

Easily Confused

품절 vs 매진

Both mean 'sold out' and are used in similar contexts.

'품절' generally refers to physical goods running out of stock, while '매진' is more often used for tickets, seats, or reservations where all available slots have been filled. For example, concert tickets are '매진', while a popular handbag might be '품절'.

콘서트 티켓이 매진되었다. (The concert tickets sold out.) vs. 이 가방은 품절되었다. (This bag is sold out.)

품절 vs 완판

Both indicate that everything has been sold.

'완판' (wanpan) specifically means 'completely sold out' and often carries a positive connotation of high demand and successful sales, implying all units produced or stocked were sold. '품절' simply states that the item is no longer available, without necessarily implying a complete sell-through or success.

한정판 신발이 완판되었다. (The limited edition shoes completely sold out - implies success.) vs. 이 셔츠는 품절되었다. (This shirt is sold out - neutral statement of unavailability.)

품절 vs 재고 없음

Both describe a lack of product availability.

'재고 없음' (jaego eop-eum) is a literal phrase meaning 'no stock' or 'out of inventory.' It's a descriptive statement about the inventory level. '품절' is a noun that signifies the state or condition of being sold out, often used more concisely in everyday language.

이 제품은 재고가 없습니다. (This product has no stock - descriptive.) vs. 이 제품은 품절입니다. (This product is sold out - state of being.)

품절 vs 없다

Both indicate unavailability.

'없다' (eopda) is a general verb meaning 'to not exist' or 'to not have.' It can imply 'sold out' in context, especially in informal speech ('이거 없어요?' - Don't you have this?). However, '품절' is more specific to products running out of stock due to sales, whereas '없다' can apply to anything that is not present.

이 색깔은 없어요. (This color doesn't exist/isn't available - could be never made or sold out.) vs. 이 셔츠는 품절이에요. (This shirt is sold out - specifically due to sales.)

품절 vs 일시 품절

Both relate to being sold out.

'일시 품절' (il-si pum-jeol) specifically means 'temporarily sold out,' implying that the item is expected to be restocked. '품절' on its own can mean permanently or temporarily sold out, but without the '일시' qualifier, it doesn't explicitly state the temporary nature.

이 상품은 일시 품절입니다. (This product is temporarily sold out - implies restock.) vs. 이 상품은 품절입니다. (This product is sold out - could be temporary or permanent.)

Sentence Patterns

A1

[Item] + 은/는 + 품절 + 이에요?

이거 품절이에요?

A2

[Item] + 은/는 + 이미 + 품절 + 이에요.

이 셔츠는 이미 품절이에요.

A2

[Item] + 이/가 + 금방 + 품절되다(었)어요.

인기 있는 장난감이 금방 품절됐어요.

B1

죄송합니다만, [Item] + 은/는 + 품절 + 입니다.

죄송합니다만, 그 책은 품절입니다.

B1

[Reason] + (으)라서 + [Item] + 은/는 + 품절 + 입니다.

수요가 많아서 이 상품은 품절입니다.

B2

[Item] + 이/가 + [Adverb] + 품절되다(었)다.

한정판 운동화가 순식간에 품절되었다.

B2

[Situation] + 때문에 + [Item] + 은/는 + 품절 + 상태 + 입니다.

공급망 문제 때문에 이 제품은 품절 상태입니다.

C1

[Item] + 은/는 + [Condition] + 으로/로 + 인해 + (일시) 품절 + 되다(었)다.

폭우로 인해 농산물이 일시 품절되었습니다.

Word Family

Nouns

품절 (pumjeol) - sold out
재고 (jaego) - stock/inventory
상품 (sangpum) - product/goods

Verbs

품절되다 (pumjeol-doeda) - to become sold out
매진되다 (maejin-doeda) - to be sold out (esp. tickets/seats)

Related

매진 (maejin) - sold out (esp. tickets)
완판 (wanpan) - completely sold out
재고 (jaego) - stock, inventory
판매 (panmae) - sale, selling
입고 (ipgo) - receiving stock

How to Use It

frequency

High

Common Mistakes
  • Using '품절' as a verb meaning 'to sell out'. Use '품절되다' (to become sold out) or state '품절입니다' (is sold out).

    Learners might say 'I 품절ed the item.' The correct Korean is '그 상품은 품절되었습니다' (That product was sold out) or '그 상품은 품절이에요' (That product is sold out).

  • Confusing '품절' with '매진' in all contexts. '품절' for goods, '매진' for tickets/seats.

    While similar, '매진' is more specific to tickets, seats, or reservations being completely filled. '품절' is broader for items running out of stock. Using '매진' for a handbag might sound slightly off.

  • Not specifying if it's temporarily sold out. Use '일시 품절' for temporary unavailability.

    Saying just '품절' can imply it might never be restocked. If it's temporary, '일시 품절' is more accurate and helpful for the customer.

  • Incorrect particle usage. Use 은/는 to mark the item as the topic.

    Saying '이 셔츠는 품절입니다' is more natural than '이 셔츠가 품절입니다' when stating the status of the shirt.

  • Applying '품절' to services or appointments. Use terms like '예약 마감' or '모두 찼어요' for services.

    '품절' is for physical products. For a fully booked appointment or a closed reservation, use phrases specific to services rather than '품절'.

Tips

Distinguish from '매진'

While both mean 'sold out,' remember that '품절' is generally for goods and '매진' is more for tickets/seats. Think of '품절' as running out of physical items on shelves and '매진' as all available slots being filled.

Use '-되다' for the action

To express the action of becoming sold out, use the verb form '품절되다' (pumjeol-doeda). For example, '이 폰은 금방 품절되었어요.' (This phone quickly became sold out.) The noun '품절' describes the state.

Common in Shopping

You will encounter '품절' very frequently in online stores, physical shops, and product descriptions. It's a key term for understanding product availability.

Visual Association

Imagine a shelf full of items, and then a sign saying '품절' appears, leaving the shelf empty. This visual helps connect the word to its meaning of unavailability.

Practice the 'j' sound

The 'ㅈ' in '절' (jeol) is pronounced like the 'j' in 'judge.' Practice saying 'pum-jul' clearly to distinguish it from similar sounds.

Temporary vs. Complete

If something is only temporarily unavailable, use '일시 품절' (il-si pum-jeol). If it's completely sold out, '완전 품절' (wan-jeon pum-jeol) or just '품절' is fine. '완판' implies a successful, complete sell-out.

Scarcity Marketing

In Korea, '품절' can sometimes be a deliberate marketing strategy to increase desirability. Be aware that high demand and quick sell-outs are common for popular items.

Particles with Nouns

When stating an item is sold out, use the topic particle 은/는 with the item: '이 셔츠는 품절입니다.' (This shirt is sold out.)

Informal Alternatives

In very casual conversation, you might hear '다 나갔어요' (da nagasseoyo - all gone) or simply '없어요' (eopseoyo - don't have it) to imply something is sold out.

Asking for Restock Info

If something is sold out, you can ask about restocking: '언제 재입고되나요?' (When will it be restocked?) or '입고 알림 신청할 수 있나요?' (Can I sign up for restock notifications?).

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Imagine a 'PUM'pkin patch that is completely 'JEOL'led (jelled/finished) – all the pumpkins are gone! Or, think of 'PUM'a bears being so popular that they are all 'JEOL'led (jelled/gone) from the shelves.

Visual Association

Picture a store shelf that was full of products, but now it's completely empty with a big red '품절' (Sold Out) sign hanging over it.

Word Web

Sold out Out of stock No inventory Unavailable All gone Empty shelves Limited quantity High demand

Challenge

Try to use '품절' in at least three different sentences today, describing situations where something is unavailable. For example, describe a popular item you couldn't buy, or a time you saw a 'Sold Out' sign.

Word Origin

The word '품절' is composed of two Hanja (Chinese characters used in Korean). '품' (品) means 'goods,' 'products,' or 'quality,' and '절' (絕) means 'to cut off,' 'to end,' or 'unique.'

Original meaning: Literally, it means 'the cutting off of goods,' implying that the supply of goods has ended.

Sino-Korean (derived from Hanja)

Cultural Context

The term itself is neutral, but the situation of something being sold out can lead to disappointment or frustration for consumers. Companies often use phrases like '일시 품절' (temporarily sold out) to soften the impact and indicate future availability.

In English-speaking countries, 'sold out' is used similarly, but the intensity and frequency of 'sold out' phenomena might differ depending on the market. Phrases like 'out of stock' are also very common.

Often seen in news headlines about limited edition product releases (e.g., sneakers, electronics, collaborations). Commonly discussed in online shopping reviews and community forums when users express disappointment about unavailable items. Frequently appears in advertisements emphasizing scarcity or limited availability to drive demand.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Online Shopping

  • 이 상품은 품절입니다.
  • 품절 시 알림 신청
  • 품절된 상품은 구매할 수 없습니다.

Retail Stores

  • 죄송합니다, 그거 품절이에요.
  • 이 사이즈 품절인가요?
  • 오늘 매진되었습니다.

Events and Tickets

  • 티켓이 매진되었습니다.
  • 공연이 품절되었어요.
  • 입장권 품절 안내

Restaurants/Cafes

  • 오늘 이 메뉴는 품절입니다.
  • 디저트가 다 나갔어요.
  • 재료 소진으로 품절되었습니다.

Product Release Announcements

  • 한정판이라 금방 품절될 수 있습니다.
  • 출시와 동시에 완판되었습니다.
  • 일시 품절 안내

Conversation Starters

"Did you see that the new phone model is already sold out everywhere?"

"I wanted to buy that limited edition jacket, but it was sold out before I could even click 'buy'."

"Have you ever experienced a 'sold out' situation that made you really frustrated?"

"When a product is sold out, do you usually wait for a restock or look for an alternative?"

"What's the most surprising thing you've seen become sold out?"

Journal Prompts

Describe a time you really wanted to buy something but it was sold out. How did you feel, and what did you do?

Think about a product that you believe is always sold out. Why do you think it's so popular?

Imagine you are a store manager. How would you handle a situation where a highly anticipated product becomes sold out on its release day?

Write about a strategy a company might use to create a 'sold out' effect intentionally. What are the pros and cons?

Reflect on the difference between 'sold out' (품절) and 'out of stock' (재고 없음). When might one term be more appropriate than the other?

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

Both mean 'sold out', but '품절' is generally used for physical goods running out of stock (like clothes, electronics, books), while '매진' is more commonly used for tickets, seats, reservations, or anything where a limited number of spots or units are completely filled or sold. For example, concert tickets are '매진', but a popular handbag is '품절'.

Generally, '품절' is used for physical products. For services or appointments that are fully booked, you would typically use phrases like '예약 마감' (reservation closed), '모두 찼어요' (it's all full), or '예약 불가' (cannot reserve). For example, a popular restaurant might say '오늘 예약 마감입니다' (Today's reservations are closed) rather than '품절입니다'.

'일시 품절' (il-si pum-jeol) means 'temporarily sold out.' It indicates that the product is currently unavailable but is expected to be restocked. It's a way to inform customers that the unavailability is not permanent.

You can ask politely using '이거 품절이에요?' (Is this sold out?) or more formally, '[Item] 은/는 품절인가요?' (Is [Item] sold out?). In a store, you might also ask '이거 더 없어요?' (Don't you have more of this?) which implies you suspect it might be sold out.

'품절' simply means 'sold out' or 'out of stock.' '완판' (wanpan) means 'completely sold out' and often implies a successful, rapid sell-through of all available inventory. It carries a positive connotation of high demand and market success, whereas '품절' is a more neutral statement of unavailability.

Yes, the verb form is '품절되다' (pumjeol-doeda), which means 'to become sold out.' You'll often hear or see sentences like '이 상품은 품절되었습니다' (This product has become sold out).

The most direct English equivalent is 'sold out.' It can also be translated as 'out of stock,' depending on the context.

'재고 없음' (jaego eop-eum) literally means 'no stock' or 'out of inventory.' It's a more descriptive and sometimes more formal way to state that there are no items left. '품절' is the noun state of being sold out and is often more concise and commonly used in everyday conversation and retail settings.

Primarily, '품절' refers to physical goods. For digital goods, if they become unavailable, terms like '서비스 종료' (service termination) or specific unavailability messages might be used rather than '품절'.

You can say '[Item]이/가 품절돼서 아쉬워요.' (I'm disappointed because [Item] is sold out.) or '품절이라니 너무 아쉽다.' (It's so disappointing that it's sold out.)

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