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B1 noun 11 min read

규격

gyugyeok

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips 규격 in 30 Seconds

Explanation 규격 in your Level:

At the A1 level, you don't need to use the word 규격 (gyu-gyeok) very often, but you might see it on labels or in stores. Think of it as a fancy word for 'size' or 'standard.' When you go to a stationery store to buy paper, you might see 'A4 규격' written on the package. This just means the paper is the standard A4 size that everyone uses. At this stage, you can simply remember that 규격 is used for things that have to be a specific, official size, like paper, envelopes, or batteries. You won't use it for people or animals. If you are learning the alphabet, just notice the two syllables: 'gyu' and 'gyeok.' It sounds a bit like 'regular' in terms of its meaning—something that follows a rule. For now, if you want to talk about size, you can keep using the easier word '크기' (keu-gi), but when you see 규격 on a sign, you'll know it's talking about a official standard size.

At the A2 level, you are starting to handle more practical tasks like shopping and using the post office. This is where 규격 becomes useful. When you go to the post office in Korea, you will see boxes labeled with numbers like 1, 2, and 3. These are '규격 상자' (standard boxes). If you want to make sure your letter or package is okay to send, you might ask, '이거 규격에 맞아요?' (Does this fit the standard?). Here, 규격 is used to describe the official requirements set by the post office. You might also hear it when buying furniture at a place like IKEA. If you are buying a frame for a picture, you need to check if the '규격' of the frame matches your photo. It's a bit more specific than just saying 'big' or 'small'; it's about whether the item matches a specific rule or measurement. You can start using phrases like '규격이 달라요' (The standard/size is different) when things don't fit together.

At the B1 level, you should understand 규격 as 'specifications' or 'technical standards.' This word is common in professional environments, DIY projects, and when discussing technology. You are now expected to know that 규격 is the correct word for industrial products. For example, if you are talking about a USB cable, a light bulb, or a car part, you use 규격 to refer to its standardized size and type. You should be able to use the verb '맞추다' (to match/adjust) with it, as in '규격에 맞춰서 제작해 주세요' (Please manufacture it according to the specifications). You will also encounter the term '규격화' (standardization), which is an important concept in modern society. At this level, you should be able to distinguish between '크기' (general size) and 규격 (official standard). If you are describing a product in a business meeting or a class, using 규격 will make your Korean sound much more precise and professional.

At the B2 level, you should be comfortable using 규격 in technical, legal, and industrial contexts. You should understand that 규격 often implies compliance with regulations, such as 'KS 규격' (Korean Industrial Standards) or 'ISO 규격'. You will hear this word in news reports about safety violations—for example, if a building was constructed using materials that '규격에 미달하다' (fall short of the standards). You should also understand the nuanced difference between 규격 and '사양' (specifications/features). While '사양' might describe the power of a computer's processor, 규격 describes the physical dimensions of the motherboard that allow it to fit into a case. You can use the word in more complex sentences, such as '국제 규격을 준수하는 것이 수출 경쟁력의 핵심입니다' (Complying with international standards is the key to export competitiveness). You should also be aware of the term '정규격' (official/regulation size) used in sports and formal documents.

At the C1 level, you can use 규격 to discuss abstract concepts of standardization and its impact on society. You might analyze how the '규격화' (standardization) of education or urban design leads to efficiency but perhaps a loss of individuality. You should be able to navigate complex technical manuals or legal documents where 규격 is used to define strict boundaries for safety and trade. You will understand how 규격 functions as a 'gatekeeper' in global markets—where products that do not meet a certain 규격 are legally barred from entry. You should also be able to use related high-level vocabulary like '규격화된' (standardized), '비규격' (non-standard), and '규격 미달' (substandard). In a debate, you might argue about the necessity of '기술 규격의 통일' (unification of technical standards) for the advancement of the Internet of Things (IoT). Your use of the word should reflect an understanding of its role in metrology, law, and industrial philosophy.

At the C2 level, you have a masterly command of 규격 and its socio-economic implications. You can discuss the historical evolution of 규격 from the early days of the Industrial Revolution to the modern digital era. You might explore the philosophical tension between '규격' (the rigid, the standard, the predictable) and '예술' (the unique, the non-standard, the unpredictable). You are capable of drafting technical specifications or legal contracts where the definition of 규격 determines liability and quality assurance. You understand the political nature of setting international 규격, where powerful nations vie to have their domestic standards adopted globally to gain a trade advantage. You can use the word metaphorically in literature or high-level journalism to describe the 'standardization of the human soul' in a consumerist society. Your proficiency allows you to use 규격 not just as a technical term, but as a lens through which to view the structure and order of the modern world.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

규격 in 30 Seconds

A technical noun meaning 'standard' or 'specification', primarily used for manufactured goods, industrial parts, and official document sizes like A4 paper.
Commonly used with verbs like '맞다' (to fit), '준수하다' (to comply), and '통일하다' (to unify) in professional and commercial contexts.
Differs from '크기' (size) because it implies an official rule or requirement rather than just a general physical dimension or volume.
Essential for discussing quality control, international trade (ISO/KS), construction, and technology compatibility in the modern Korean business environment.

The Korean noun 규격 (規格) refers to a formal standard, specification, or technical requirement, particularly concerning the dimensions, quality, and material properties of manufactured goods. While English speakers might use the word 'size' or 'standard' loosely, 규격 carries a more technical weight, implying that a product has been made according to a specific, pre-determined blueprint or regulatory framework. It is the backbone of mass production and global trade, ensuring that a screw made in Busan fits a hole drilled in Berlin. In everyday Korean life, you will encounter this word when buying furniture, electronics, or even office supplies like paper. It represents the transition from artisanal, one-off creations to the era of industrial consistency.

Industrial Standard: The established measurements that allow for mass production and interchangeability of parts across different manufacturers.

이 부품은 국제 규격에 맞춰 제작되었습니다. (This part was manufactured in accordance with international standards.)

Historically, the concept of 규격 became vital during Korea's rapid industrialization period. As the nation moved toward heavy industry and electronics, the Korean Industrial Standards (KS) were developed to ensure that domestic products could compete globally. This word isn't just about 'how big' something is; it's about the 'promise' of consistency. When a company says their products follow a certain 규격, they are telling the consumer that the item is reliable and compatible with other standard systems. For example, the 규격 of a credit card is identical worldwide, which is why it fits into any ATM regardless of the country.

You will also see this word in the context of 'standardizing' things that aren't physical objects. For instance, data formats in software can be referred to as having a specific 규격. If you are a developer, you might talk about the 규격 of an API response. In architecture, the 규격 of materials like bricks or steel beams determines the structural integrity of a building. The word comes from the Hanja 規 (rule/compass) and 格 (pattern/standard), literally meaning a 'rule-based pattern'.

봉투 규격이 맞지 않아서 우편 요금이 더 나왔어요. (The envelope size didn't meet the standard, so the postage cost more.)

Compatibility: The ability of different systems or products to work together because they adhere to the same 규격.

Finally, 규격 is often paired with verbs like '맞추다' (to adjust to/match) or '벗어나다' (to deviate from). If something is '규격 외' (outside the standard), it usually means it is custom-made or non-standard, which often implies it will be more expensive or difficult to replace. Understanding this word is essential for anyone working in trade, engineering, design, or logistics in Korea.

Regulatory Compliance: Ensuring that a product meets the legal and safety 규격 required by the government.

안전 규격을 통과하지 못한 제품은 판매할 수 없습니다. (Products that do not pass safety standards cannot be sold.)

Using 규격 correctly requires understanding its role as a noun that often acts as the subject or object of technical actions. It is most frequently found in formal, industrial, or commercial contexts. Unlike the word '크기' (size), which is a general term for how big something is, 규격 implies a sanctioned or official measurement. For example, while you would ask about the '크기' of a puppy, you would never ask about its '규격'. Conversely, you would ask about the 규격 of a shipping container, not just its size, because shipping containers must adhere to strict international ISO standards to fit on ships and trucks.

Standardized Production: Using 규격화하다 (to standardize) to describe the process of making things uniform.

One of the most common sentence patterns involves the particle '에' (to/at) followed by verbs like '맞다' (to fit/be correct) or '맞추다' (to adjust/make fit). For instance, '규격에 맞다' means 'to meet the specifications'. This is used when verifying if a product is acceptable. If a manufacturer produces a batch of bolts that are 0.1mm too large, a quality control officer would say, '규격에 맞지 않습니다' (It does not meet the standards). This simple phrase can halt an entire production line.

이 종이는 프린터 규격에 맞지 않아서 자꾸 종이가 걸려요. (This paper doesn't match the printer's specifications, so it keeps jamming.)

Another important usage is 규격화 (Standardization). This is a noun form used to describe the social or industrial trend of making things uniform. You might hear, '부품의 규격화가 시급합니다' (Standardization of parts is urgent). This is often discussed in the context of technology, where having too many different charging cables (USB-C vs. Lightning) is seen as a failure of 규격화. In a more abstract sense, it can also describe the homogenization of culture or education, though this is less common than the industrial usage.

In business proposals or technical manuals, you will see '제품 규격' (Product Specifications). This section lists dimensions, weight, voltage, and other technical details. When someone asks, '규격이 어떻게 되나요?' (What are the specifications?), they are looking for a precise list of numbers, not a general description. This is a very useful phrase if you are working in a hardware store, a design firm, or an export-import company.

우리는 수출을 위해 유럽의 안전 규격을 준수해야 합니다. (We must comply with European safety standards for export.)

Technical Compliance: Using 준수하다 (to comply/observe) with 규격 to indicate following legal or technical rules.

Finally, consider the term '정규격' (Standard size/Official size). This is used for sports equipment or official documents. A '정규격 축구장' is a soccer field that meets the official FIFA dimensions. Using this term implies that the object is suitable for official competition or professional use. If you are building a basketball court in your backyard and want it to be perfect, you would say you want it in '정규격'.

You will hear 규격 in environments where precision and rules are paramount. The most common place is a construction site or a manufacturing plant. Engineers and site managers constantly discuss whether the steel, cement, or electrical components meet the 규격. If you ever visit a 'Cheol-mul-jeom' (철물점 - hardware store) in Korea, you will hear customers asking for bolts or pipes of a specific 규격. They don't just say 'a big pipe'; they might say '50미리 규격 파이프' (a 50mm standard pipe). This ensures they get exactly what fits their existing plumbing.

사장님, 이 나사는 규격이 달라서 안 맞아요. (Boss, this screw doesn't fit because the standard is different.)

Another frequent context is the post office (우체국). Korean post offices have very strict 규격 for boxes and envelopes. If your box is even slightly larger than the maximum 규격, it may be rejected or charged at a much higher rate. You will see posters on the wall showing the different '상자 규격' (box sizes 1 through 5). This is a very practical place to practice using the word. You can ask, '이 상자가 우편 규격에 맞나요?' (Does this box meet the postal standards?).

Real-world Logistics: Standardized box sizes in the Korean postal system are referred to as 호 (number/size), but the overarching system is 규격.

In the tech world, 규격 is used when discussing hardware compatibility. When a new iPhone or Samsung Galaxy is released, tech reviewers in Korea will talk about the '충전 규격' (charging standard). If a phone supports 'PD 규격' (Power Delivery standard), it means it can be charged quickly with compatible chargers. This word is essential for reading tech blogs or watching Korean YouTube reviews of gadgets. It moves the conversation from 'it works' to 'it follows the industry-standard protocol'.

Government news and official announcements also use this word frequently. When the government introduces new environmental regulations, they might announce new '배출 규격' (emission standards) for factories. In this context, 규격 acts as a legal limit. If a factory exceeds these 규격, they face fines. Therefore, in news broadcasts (뉴스), you'll often hear journalists reporting on companies that failed to meet safety 규격 (안전 규격 미달), which is a serious social issue in Korea.

정부는 미세먼지 배출 규격을 더욱 강화하기로 했습니다. (The government has decided to further strengthen fine dust emission standards.)

The most common mistake English speakers make is confusing 규격 with 표준 (Standard) or 기준 (Criterion). While they are related, they are not interchangeable in many contexts. 규격 is specifically about physical dimensions, technical specs, or industrial requirements. 표준 is a broader term for 'the norm' or 'the average' (like 'standard language' - 표준어). 기준 is a 'yardstick' or 'benchmark' used for evaluation or judgment (like 'grading criteria'). If you say '이 사과의 규격이 뭐예요?' it sounds like you are asking for the industrial grade of the apple, which is okay, but if you say '이 사과의 기준이 뭐예요?' it sounds like you are asking what the rules are for being an apple.

Mistake: Using '규격' for People: Never use 규격 to describe a person's height or weight. That would be 체격 (physique) or 신체 치수 (body measurements). Calling a person's size a 규격 makes them sound like a factory-produced object.

Another mistake is using 규격 when you simply mean 'size' in a casual clothing context. If you are in a clothing store, use 사이즈 (the loanword 'size') or 치수. If you ask a clerk for the 규격 of a t-shirt, they will understand you, but it sounds like you are an industrial inspector checking the manufacturing tolerances of the cotton, rather than a customer looking for a medium. Keep 규격 for furniture, electronics, construction materials, and official documents.

Incorrect: 이 바지의 규격이 어떻게 되나요?
Correct: 이 바지의 사이즈가 어떻게 되나요?

A subtle mistake is using the wrong verbs. English speakers often want to say 'follow the standard' and might use '따르다'. While '규격을 따르다' is grammatically correct and used, the more professional and frequent term is '규격을 준수하다' (to comply with standards) or '규격에 맞추다' (to fit to standards). Using '준수하다' makes you sound much more fluent in a business context. Also, avoid using 규격 for 'quality' in a general sense. While 규격 can include quality requirements, if you just want to say something is 'high quality', use 품질 (quality).

이 제품은 품질은 좋지만 규격이 맞지 않아요. (This product has good quality, but the specifications are wrong.)

Finally, watch out for the pronunciation. Because it has two 'k' sounds (Gyu-Gyeok), beginners sometimes slur it. Ensure both syllables are distinct. If you mispronounce it, it might sound like '구격' or '가격' (price), which will lead to confusion in a store or factory.

To truly master 규격, you must understand its neighbors in the Korean language. These words often appear in the same paragraphs but serve different functions. By choosing the right one, you demonstrate a deep understanding of Korean nuance.

표준 (Standard): This refers to a model or example that serves as a basis for others. It is broader than 규격. 표준 is used for language (표준어), time (표준시), and general social norms. 규격 is a subset of 표준 specifically for physical and technical specs.
기준 (Criterion/Benchmark): This is the starting point or the line that must be crossed. If 규격 is the 'what', 기준 is the 'why' or 'how much'. For example, the 규격 of a mask is its size and filter type, but the 기준 for safety is how many particles it blocks.
치수 (Measurement/Dimension): This is the actual numerical value of a length, width, or height. While 규격 is the 'standard' (e.g., A4), 치수 is the actual numbers (210mm x 297mm). You measure the 치수 to see if it fits the 규격.

In some informal cases, Koreans use the loanword 스펙 (Spec). However, 스펙 is used in two very specific ways: 1) The technical specifications of a computer or phone (CPU, RAM), and 2) A person's 'specifications' for a job (GPA, TOEIC score, internships). You would never use 규격 to talk about someone's job qualifications. That would be quite offensive! Conversely, you wouldn't use 스펙 for the size of a window frame; that's strictly 규격.

컴퓨터 스펙은 좋은데 본체의 규격이 너무 커서 책상에 안 들어가요. (The computer specs are good, but the physical size/standard of the case is too big, so it doesn't fit on the desk.)

Another alternative is 사양 (Specification). This is very close to 규격 and is often used interchangeably in manufacturing. However, 사양 tends to focus more on the features and performance (e.g., 'high-spec car'), while 규격 focuses more on the physical dimensions and compatibility. If you are looking at a technical datasheet, you will likely see both terms: 제품 사양 (Product Specs) and 외형 규격 (External Dimensions/Standard).

이 기계는 우리가 요구한 사양과 규격을 모두 충족합니다. (This machine meets both the performance specifications and physical standards we requested.)

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

The character 規 originally depicted a hand holding a compass, symbolizing the act of drawing a perfect circle—the ultimate standard.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /ɡju.ɡjʌk/

US /ɡju.ɡjʌk/

The stress is equal on both syllables, but the second syllable 'gyeok' feels slightly heavier due to the final consonant.

Rhymes With

자격 (qualification) 성격 (personality) 가격 (price) 충격 (shock) 합격 (passing) 공격 (attack) 품격 (dignity) 파격 (unconventional)

Common Errors

Pronouncing it as 'Gyu-gyeo' (dropping the final k).
Confusing it with 'Gagyeok' (price).
Making the 'u' sound too long like 'Gyuuu'.
Not tensing the 'gy' sound properly.
Adding an 'ee' sound between 'gy' and 'u'.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 3/5

Common in technical texts and labels, but clear in context.

Writing 4/5

Requires knowing technical collocations like '준수하다'.

Speaking 3/5

Pronunciation of 'gyeok' requires practice for clarity.

Listening 3/5

Easy to hear in shopping or news contexts.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

크기 맞다 제품 기준 종이

Learn Next

품질 성능 호환성 인증 검사

Advanced

메카트로닉스 표준화 기구 품질 보증 허용 오차

Grammar to Know

-에 맞다/맞추다

규격에 맞는 상자를 골랐어요.

-대로 (according to)

규격대로 만들어야 합니다.

-화 (suffix for -ization)

부품의 규격화가 필요합니다.

-에 따라 (according to/depending on)

규격에 따라 가격이 다릅니다.

-미달 (suffix for falling short)

이 제품은 규격 미달입니다.

Examples by Level

이 종이는 A4 규격입니다.

This paper is A4 size (standard).

Noun + 입니다 (is).

규격이 뭐예요?

What is the standard/size?

Question form.

작은 규격 상자를 주세요.

Please give me a small standard box.

Adjective + Noun.

이 봉투는 규격에 맞아요.

This envelope fits the standard.

에 맞다 (to fit/match).

규격이 아주 커요.

The standard size is very big.

Adverb + Adjective.

우리는 같은 규격을 써요.

We use the same standard.

Object + Verb (쓰다).

이것은 규격 제품입니다.

This is a standardized product.

Noun + Noun compound.

규격을 확인하세요.

Please check the standard/size.

Imperative (-(으)세요).

우체국 규격 상자를 샀어요.

I bought a post office standard box.

Past tense (-았/었어요).

이 나사는 규격이 안 맞아요.

This screw doesn't fit the standard.

Negation (안).

침대 규격을 알려 주세요.

Please tell me the bed specifications.

-아/어 주세요 (request).

규격에 맞는 건전지를 사야 해요.

I have to buy batteries that fit the standard.

-아/어야 하다 (must).

이 사진은 여권 규격이 아니에요.

This photo is not the passport standard.

-이/가 아니다 (is not).

더 큰 규격은 없나요?

Is there no larger standard size?

Comparative (더).

규격대로 만들어 주세요.

Please make it according to the standard.

-대로 (according to).

이 제품은 규격이 일정해요.

This product has a consistent standard/size.

Adjective (일정하다).

부품의 규격을 통일하면 비용이 절감됩니다.

Unifying the standards of parts reduces costs.

-(으)면 (if/when).

이 기계는 국제 규격을 준수합니다.

This machine complies with international standards.

Formal verb (준수하다).

규격 외 제품은 반품이 어렵습니다.

It is difficult to return non-standard products.

Noun + 외 (outside/other than).

상세 규격을 홈페이지에서 확인하세요.

Check the detailed specifications on the website.

Compound noun (상세 규격).

이 타일은 규격이 정확해서 붙이기 쉬워요.

These tiles have accurate standards, so they are easy to attach.

-기 쉽다 (easy to do).

새로운 규격이 도입될 예정입니다.

A new standard is scheduled to be introduced.

-(으)ㄹ 예정이다 (plan/schedule).

규격에 맞지 않는 부품은 폐기하세요.

Discard parts that do not meet the standards.

Imperative (-(으)세요).

모든 제품은 동일한 규격으로 생산됩니다.

All products are produced to the same standard.

Passive-like expression (생산되다).

품질 관리팀에서 규격 미달 제품을 골라냈습니다.

The quality control team sorted out the substandard products.

Compound noun (규격 미달).

건축 규격을 어기면 벌금을 낼 수 있습니다.

If you violate building standards, you may pay a fine.

Verb (어기다 - to violate).

이 배터리는 독자적인 규격을 사용합니다.

This battery uses a proprietary (independent) standard.

Adjective (독자적이다).

수출용 제품은 현지 규격에 맞춰야 합니다.

Products for export must be adjusted to local standards.

-(으)ㄹ 용 (for the use of).

기술의 발전으로 규격이 계속 변하고 있습니다.

Standards are constantly changing due to technological advancement.

-고 있다 (progressive).

이 규격은 전 세계적으로 통용됩니다.

This standard is commonly used worldwide.

Verb (통용되다).

규격화된 공정 덕분에 생산성이 높아졌습니다.

Thanks to standardized processes, productivity has increased.

Noun + 화 (suffix for -ization).

정규격 축구장에서 경기를 치렀습니다.

The match was held in a regulation-size soccer stadium.

Prefix 정- (official/correct).

산업 규격의 통일은 시장 진입 장벽을 낮춥니다.

The unification of industrial standards lowers market entry barriers.

Abstract noun usage.

엄격한 환경 규격이 기업들에게 부담이 되고 있습니다.

Strict environmental standards are becoming a burden for companies.

Adjective (엄격하다).

제품의 설계 단계부터 규격을 고려해야 합니다.

Standards must be considered from the product design stage.

Stage/Phase (단계).

규격화된 현대인의 삶에 대한 비판이 일고 있습니다.

Criticism of the standardized life of modern people is rising.

Metaphorical usage.

이 문서는 법적 규격에 따라 작성되었습니다.

This document was prepared in accordance with legal standards.

-에 따라 (according to).

규격의 미세한 차이가 오작동의 원인이 될 수 있습니다.

A slight difference in standards can cause malfunctions.

Noun (오작동 - malfunction).

정부는 신기술에 대한 새로운 안전 규격을 마련했습니다.

The government has prepared new safety standards for new technologies.

Verb (마련하다 - to prepare/establish).

규격화는 대량 생산의 필수 전제 조건입니다.

Standardization is an essential prerequisite for mass production.

Compound noun (전제 조건).

규격이라는 틀에 갇혀 창의성이 훼손되어서는 안 됩니다.

Creativity must not be damaged by being trapped in the frame of standards.

Metaphor (틀에 갇히다).

국제 표준 규격 제정을 둘러싼 국가 간의 패권 다툼이 치열합니다.

The struggle for hegemony among nations over the establishment of international standards is fierce.

-을/를 둘러싼 (surrounding/regarding).

기술적 규격의 변천사는 산업 혁명의 역사와 궤를 같이합니다.

The history of technical standards shares the same track as the history of the Industrial Revolution.

Idiom (궤를 같이하다).

포스트모더니즘은 규격화된 이성적 사고에 의문을 제기합니다.

Postmodernism raises questions about standardized rational thinking.

Philosophical context.

규격의 미학은 질서와 조화에서 비롯됩니다.

The aesthetics of standards stem from order and harmony.

Noun (미학 - aesthetics).

산업 생태계에서 지배적 규격을 선점하는 것이 중요합니다.

It is important to preoccupy the dominant standard in the industrial ecosystem.

Verb (선점하다 - to preoccupy).

규격화는 다양성을 희생시키지만 효율성을 극대화합니다.

Standardization sacrifices diversity but maximizes efficiency.

Conjunction (-지만).

인간의 감정까지 규격화하려는 시도는 위험할 수 있습니다.

Attempts to standardize even human emotions can be dangerous.

Grammar (-려 하는 - attempting to).

Synonyms

규범 표준 사이즈 형식

Antonyms

비규격 변형

Common Collocations

규격에 맞다

규격을 준수하다

규격화되다

상세 규격

국제 규격

규격 미달

정규격

규격품

규격에 어긋나다

봉투 규격

Common Phrases

규격이 어떻게 됩니까?

— What are the specifications? Use this to ask for technical details.

이 모니터의 규격이 어떻게 됩니까?

규격에 맞춰서

— According to the standard. Use this when explaining how something was made.

규격에 맞춰서 제작했습니다.

규격 외 사이즈

— Non-standard size. Used for custom orders.

규격 외 사이즈는 추가 비용이 발생합니다.

KS 규격

— Korean Industrial Standards. The official national standard of Korea.

이 제품은 KS 규격을 획득했습니다.

안전 규격 통과

— Passed safety standards. Essential for selling products.

드디어 안전 규격 통과 인증을 받았습니다.

규격화된 제품

— A standardized product. Implies mass production and reliability.

규격화된 제품이라서 믿을 수 있어요.

규격에 미달하다

— To fall short of the standard. Used in negative contexts or failures.

강도가 규격에 미달하여 재시공이 필요합니다.

표준 규격

— Standard specification. The most common or required version.

이것이 업계의 표준 규격입니다.

규격을 통일하다

— To unify standards. Often discussed in tech or mergers.

회사마다 다른 규격을 통일하기로 했습니다.

규격 확인

— Standard/Specification check. A common step in any process.

작업 시작 전 규격 확인은 필수입니다.

Often Confused With

규격 vs 표준

Broad 'standard' (language, time). 규격 is specifically technical/physical.

규격 vs 기준

Evaluative 'criterion' or 'benchmark'. 규격 is a fixed measurement.

규격 vs 사양

Performance 'specs' (RAM, CPU). 규격 is physical/compatibility standard.

Idioms & Expressions

"규격에 박히다"

— To be stuck in a mold or standard. Refers to something very conventional or lacking creativity.

그의 생각은 너무 규격에 박혀 있어서 재미가 없어요.

Metaphorical

"규격을 깨다"

— To break the standard. To do something innovative or non-traditional.

이번 신제품은 기존의 규격을 깨는 혁신적인 디자인입니다.

Metaphorical

"규격대로 살다"

— To live according to a set standard. To live a very disciplined or predictable life.

그는 평생을 규격대로 살아온 사람입니다.

Metaphorical

"규격에서 벗어나다"

— To deviate from the standard. Can be positive (unique) or negative (faulty).

이 예술 작품은 모든 규격에서 벗어나 있습니다.

Neutral

"규격화된 인간"

— A standardized human. A critical term for someone who lacks individuality.

사회는 우리를 규격화된 인간으로 만들려고 합니다.

Philosophical

"규격에 맞춘 듯하다"

— To look as if it were made to a standard. Used when something fits perfectly.

이 가구는 우리 집 거실에 규격에 맞춘 듯이 잘 어울려요.

Neutral

"규격이 크다"

— To have a 'large scale'. While usually literal, it can sometimes refer to a person's grand plans.

그는 규격이 큰 사업을 구상하고 있습니다.

Rare/Metaphorical

"규격 미달의 인간"

— A substandard human. A very harsh insult implying someone lacks basic character.

그런 행동을 하다니 정말 규격 미달의 인간이군.

Slang/Insult

"규격의 틀"

— The frame of standards. Refers to the limitations imposed by rules.

규격의 틀을 벗어나야 새로운 아이디어가 나옵니다.

Literary

"규격화의 물결"

— The wave of standardization. Refers to a widespread trend in society.

규격화의 물결 속에서도 전통을 지켜야 합니다.

Journalistic

Easily Confused

규격 vs 가격

Similar sound.

가격 is 'price', 규격 is 'standard/size'.

가격이 싸지만 규격이 안 맞아요.

규격 vs 자격

Similar sound.

자격 is 'qualification' or 'right'.

그는 자격증이 있지만 규격은 몰라요.

규격 vs 체격

Both end in -gyeok.

체격 is used for a person's build/physique.

그는 체격이 좋아서 규격 옷이 작아요.

규격 vs 양식

Both refer to 'forms'.

양식 is for document styles; 규격 is for physical dimensions.

서류 양식에 규격을 적으세요.

규격 vs 치수

Both relate to measurement.

치수 is the raw number; 규격 is the official standard name.

A4 규격의 치수는 210x297입니다.

Sentence Patterns

이것은 [Noun] 규격입니다.

이것은 A4 규격입니다.

[Noun]이/가 규격에 맞아요?

이 상자가 규격에 맞아요?

[Noun]의 규격을 확인하세요.

제품의 상세 규격을 확인하세요.

규격에 맞춰서 [Verb].

규격에 맞춰서 만들었어요.

규격을 준수하는 것이 [Adjective].

규격을 준수하는 것이 중요합니다.

규격 미달로 인해 [Noun].

규격 미달로 인해 반품되었습니다.

[Noun]의 규격화를 통해 [Verb].

부품의 규격화를 통해 비용을 절감했습니다.

규격이라는 틀을 [Verb].

규격이라는 틀을 뛰어넘어야 합니다.

Word Family

Nouns

규격 (standard)

규격화 (standardization)

정규격 (official size)

비규격 (non-standard)

Verbs

규격화하다 (to standardize)

규격을 맞추다 (to meet standards)

규격을 준수하다 (to comply)

Adjectives

규격화된 (standardized)

규격에 맞는 (fitting the standard)

표준 (standard)

기준 (criterion)

사양 (specifications)

치수 (dimensions)

품질 (quality)

How to Use It

frequency

High in professional, industrial, and consumer electronics contexts.

Common Mistakes

사람의 규격 → 사람의 체격/키
Using '규격' for a person makes them sound like an object.
옷 규격 → 옷 사이즈
In fashion, '사이즈' or '치수' is the standard term.
규격을 지키다 (in technical context) → 규격을 준수하다
'준수하다' is the professional verb for complying with technical standards.
규격이 싸다 → 가격이 싸다
Confusing 'standard' with 'price' due to similar sounds.
규격을 재다 (to measure a standard) → 치수를 재다
You measure 'dimensions' (치수) to see if they meet the 'standard' (규격).

Tips

Precision Matters

Use '규격' when you need to be precise about industrial or technical standards. It shows you know the professional term.

Pair with '맞다'

The most common phrase is '규격에 맞다'. Memorize this as a single unit to sound natural.

Post Office Pro

When shipping in Korea, knowing the word '규격' will help you understand why some boxes are more expensive.

Industry Standard

If you work in engineering or manufacturing, this is one of the most important words to learn.

Clothes vs. Parts

Remember: Clothes = 사이즈, Screws/Paper = 규격. Don't mix them up!

Stop the 'K'

The final 'k' in 'gyeok' is a 'stopped' sound. Don't release a breath of air after it.

Technical Reports

In technical writing, '규격' is preferred over '크기' to indicate that requirements are being met.

The KS Mark

Look for the 'KS' symbol on Korean products. It stands for 'Korean Industrial Standards' (한국 산업 규격).

Compatibility

Think of '규격' as the key to compatibility. If two things have the same '규격', they will work together.

Standardization

Learn '규격화' (standardization) to talk about social and economic trends in advanced Korean.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of a 'Gyu' (Queue) of people all wearing the same 'Gyeok' (Jacket). They are all standardized!

Visual Association

Imagine a perfect square box that fits exactly into a square hole. That perfect fit is the '규격'.

Word Web

Factory Blueprint ISO A4 Paper Screw Consistency Measurement Rule

Challenge

Go to your kitchen and find three items that have a '규격' (like a battery, a food container, or a light bulb) and say '이것의 규격은...' out loud.

Word Origin

Derived from Sino-Korean (Hanja). 規 (규) means 'compass' or 'law/rule', and 格 (격) means 'pattern', 'frame', or 'standard'.

Original meaning: A rule-based pattern or a frame determined by a compass.

Sino-Korean

Cultural Context

Avoid using '규격' for people's bodies as it is dehumanizing.

In English, we often just say 'size' for things like envelopes, but in Korean, '규격' is much more common for official items.

KS Mark (Korean Industrial Standards) ISO 9001 (International Standard) A4 Paper Size (The most common '규격' in Korea)

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Post Office

규격 상자
규격 봉투
규격에 맞나요?
추가 요금

Hardware Store

나사 규격
파이프 규격
규격이 달라요
맞는 거 있어요?

Tech/Electronics

충전 규격
부품 규격
국제 규격
사양 확인

Construction

건축 규격
안전 규격
규격 미달
설계 규격

Office Supplies

A4 규격
용지 규격
규격화된 양식
파일 규격

Conversation Starters

"이 제품의 상세 규격이 어떻게 되나요?"

"혹시 이 가구가 우리 집 문 규격에 맞을까요?"

"국제 규격에 맞는 부품을 찾고 있습니다."

"이 상자는 우체국 규격 상자 몇 호인가요?"

"새로운 충전 규격이 도입되어서 편리해졌어요."

Journal Prompts

오늘 내가 사용한 물건들 중에서 규격이 중요한 것들을 나열해 보세요.

모든 것이 규격화된 세상의 장점과 단점에 대해 써 보세요.

내가 산 물건이 규격에 맞지 않아서 곤란했던 경험이 있나요?

한국의 산업 규격(KS)이 한국 경제에 어떤 영향을 주었을까요?

나만의 특별한 '규격'을 가진 물건을 소개해 보세요.

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

It is better to use '사이즈' or '치수'. '규격' sounds like you are a robot or a piece of industrial equipment.

'표준' is a general word for 'standard' (like standard time), while '규격' is a technical word for 'specifications' (like battery size).

Yes, it is a neutral to formal word. In casual conversation about size, people usually say '크기' or '사이즈'.

It means 'substandard' or 'failing to meet the required specifications'. It's often used for faulty products.

You say '국제 규격' (Guk-je Gyu-gyeok).

Yes, A4 is a '종이 규격' (paper standard/size).

No, but you can add '-화하다' to make '규격화하다' (to standardize).

Use '사양' for performance features like a computer's RAM. Use '규격' for physical things like the size of the computer case.

It means 'official regulation size', often used in sports like '정규격 축구장'.

Ask '이거 우체국 규격에 맞아요?' (Does this fit the post office standard?).