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명세서

B1 noun #4,000 most common 8 min read

명세서

myeongseso Top 4,000

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips 명세서 in 30 Seconds

Explanation 명세서 in your Level:

At the A1 level, you can think of '명세서' as a 'detailed paper' about money. When you go to a store, you get a receipt. But when you get a letter from a bank or a phone company, they send you a '명세서.' It is a list that shows exactly why you are paying a certain amount. For example, it lists how many minutes you talked on the phone or what you bought with your credit card. At this level, just remember that '명세서' is a document with many details. You might see it on a phone app or in your mailbox. It is more formal than a simple receipt. If you see this word, it usually means you should check your spending or your salary. It is a noun, so you can use it with '있어요' (there is) or '보세요' (please look).

At the A2 level, you should know that '명세서' is a formal document used for breaking down costs or items. You will often hear it in the context of '카드 명세서' (credit card statement) or '요금 명세서' (bill statement). In Korea, when you work at a job, you receive a '급여 명세서' (pay stub) every month. This document is important because it shows your base salary, taxes, and any bonuses. You can use verbs like '확인하다' (to check) or '받다' (to receive) with this word. For example, '명세서를 확인하세요' means 'Please check the statement.' It is a useful word for daily life management. You should be able to recognize it when you receive emails from services you use, like Netflix, gas companies, or banks. It helps you understand the 'details' (명세) of a transaction.

At the B1 level, you should understand '명세서' as a 'specification' or 'detailed statement' used in professional and administrative contexts. It is not just about money; it can also be a 'technical specification' (기술 명세서) in engineering or IT. At this level, you should be comfortable with compound nouns like '거래 명세서' (transaction statement) and '물품 명세서' (itemized list). You will use more advanced verbs like '발급하다' (to issue) or '조회하다' (to look up/inquire). For instance, '인터넷으로 명세서를 조회할 수 있습니다' (You can look up the statement online). You should also distinguish it from '영수증' (receipt). While a receipt is proof of payment, a '명세서' is the detailed breakdown. This distinction is important for office work and business transactions in Korea. You might also encounter it in legal or formal contracts where specific items must be listed clearly.

At the B2 level, '명세서' is a term you use to handle complex administrative tasks and technical discussions. You should understand its etymological roots (明 - clear, 細 - detailed, 書 - document) to appreciate its nuance of providing absolute clarity. In a business setting, you might discuss '요구 사항 명세서' (requirements specification) during project planning. This level requires you to use the word in passive and active forms, such as '명세서에 명시되어 있다' (It is specified in the statement). You should also be aware of the legal nuances, such as the '급여명세서 교부 의무' (the obligation to provide a pay stub) under Korean labor law. You are expected to use this word accurately in reports, emails to clients, and when disputing errors in financial documents. It represents a level of detail that goes beyond a simple summary, and using it correctly demonstrates your professional Korean proficiency.

At the C1 level, you should be able to use '명세서' in highly specialized contexts, including law, high-level engineering, and complex financial auditing. You should understand how a '명세서' functions as a 'specification' in patent law (특허 명세서), where every word has legal weight and defines the scope of an invention. You will use the term when analyzing '원가 명세서' (cost accounting statements) or '재무제표 명세서' (financial statement schedules). At this level, you don't just 'check' a statement; you '분석하다' (analyze), '검토하다' (review), or '대조하다' (cross-check for discrepancies). You should be able to discuss the digital transformation of these documents, such as '전자 명세서' (electronic statements), and their implications for data security and environmental policy. Your usage should reflect a deep understanding of how detailed documentation underpins the reliability of institutional systems in Korea.

At the C2 level, '명세서' is a tool for precision in the highest forms of discourse. You understand the philosophical and systemic importance of the '명세' (detailing) process in creating transparency within a society. You can navigate the most complex '설계 명세서' (design specifications) for large-scale infrastructure projects or '법률 명세서' (legal specifications) in international trade. You are capable of critiquing the clarity of a '명세서' and suggesting improvements to its structure to prevent ambiguity. You understand the nuances between '명세서' and related terms like '시방서' (a specialized term for construction specs) or '전말서' (a report of facts). In a C2 context, you might lead a seminar on the 'standardization of electronic transaction statements' or draft a 'technical specification' that serves as a global standard. Your command of the word is indistinguishable from a highly educated native speaker, used with perfect register and context-specific accuracy.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

명세서 in 30 Seconds

A formal document providing a detailed breakdown of items or costs.
Commonly refers to bank statements, pay stubs, or technical specs.
Essential for financial clarity and professional documentation in Korea.
Distinguished from simple receipts by its high level of detail.

The Korean word 명세서 (myeong-se-seo) is a vital term in both professional and daily life, referring to a document that provides a detailed breakdown or specification of items, costs, or technical requirements. Etymologically, it is composed of three Hanja characters: Myeong (明) meaning 'clear' or 'bright,' Se (細) meaning 'fine' or 'detailed,' and Seo (書) meaning 'document' or 'writing.' Together, they literally translate to a 'document that makes details clear.' In a world where general summaries often hide the true nature of transactions or designs, the 명세서 serves as the definitive source of truth, offering transparency and granular information.

Financial Context: In the financial realm, a 명세서 is most commonly encountered as a 'statement.' This includes the 카드 이용 명세서 (credit card statement) and the 급여 명세서 (payroll statement or pay stub). While a simple receipt (영수증) tells you the total paid, a 명세서 breaks down every single transaction, tax deduction, and bonus, allowing for rigorous auditing and personal financial management.

이번 달 명세서를 보니 외식비가 너무 많이 나왔어요. (Looking at this month's statement, I see I spent too much on eating out.)

Beyond finance, the term is indispensable in engineering, construction, and manufacturing. Here, it translates more accurately as a 'specification' or 'spec sheet.' It outlines the exact materials, dimensions, and standards required for a project. Without a precise 설계 명세서 (design specification), a project would lack the necessary guidance to ensure safety and functionality. It is the bridge between a broad idea and a tangible, accurately constructed reality.

Legal and Formal Use: In legal disputes, a 명세서 is often used as evidence to prove the specific terms of a deal or the exact items delivered in a shipment. It transforms vague verbal agreements into verifiable, written facts.

거래 명세서에 기재된 수량과 실제 배송된 물건이 다릅니다. (The quantity listed on the transaction statement differs from the actual items delivered.)

Whether you are a student checking your tuition breakdown, an office worker reviewing your salary, or an engineer following a technical blueprint, the 명세서 is the document that provides the 'fine print' necessary for accuracy and trust in modern society. Its use signifies a move from generalities to specifics, making it an essential word for anyone operating in a professional or administrative environment in Korea.

Using 명세서 correctly requires understanding its role as a noun that often acts as the object of verbs related to verification, issuance, and analysis. Because it is a formal document, it is frequently paired with verbs like 발급하다 (to issue), 확인하다 (to check/verify), and 첨부하다 (to attach). Understanding these pairings is key to sounding natural in a business or administrative setting.

Common Verb Pairings

명세서를 발급받다: To have a statement issued (to receive it).
명세서를 조회하다: To look up or inquire about a statement (usually online).
명세서를 대조하다: To cross-check or compare a statement with other data.

은행 앱에서 지난달 카드 명세서를 조회할 수 있습니다. (You can look up last month's card statement on the bank app.)

In more complex sentence structures, 명세서 often appears in the possessive or as a compound noun. For example, 제품 명세서 (product specification) or 수출 명세서 (export specification). When you want to describe the content within the document, you use the particle -에 (in/on), as in 명세서에 적힌 대로 (as written on the statement). This highlights the document's role as a source of authority or instruction.

수리비 명세서를 꼼꼼히 확인해 보세요. (Please check the repair cost statement thoroughly.)

Sentences involving 명세서 often carry a tone of precision. If there is a mistake, you might say '명세서에 오류가 있습니다' (There is an error in the statement). If you are providing a document to support a claim, you might say '증빙 자료로 명세서를 제출했습니다' (I submitted the statement as supporting evidence). Mastering these patterns allows you to navigate Korean bureaucracy and business transactions with confidence.

The word 명세서 is ubiquitous in environments where transactions are tracked or where technical precision is required. If you live in Korea, you will hear this word most frequently at the end of the month or during tax season. It is a 'high-frequency' word in adult life, though children might rarely encounter it unless they are playing 'store' or learning about money management.

In the Office: HR departments and accounting teams are the primary 'issuers' of 명세서. You will hear coworkers asking, '이번 달 급여 명세서 나왔나요?' (Is this month's pay stub out?). In B2B (business-to-business) settings, the 거래 명세서 (transaction statement) is the standard document exchanged when goods are delivered to a warehouse or office.

부장님, 여기 물품 구매 명세서입니다. (Manager, here is the item purchase statement.)

At the bank or when dealing with utilities, you will hear recorded voices or see buttons on ATMs and apps labeled '명세서 출력' (Print Statement). If you are disputing a charge on your mobile phone bill, the customer service representative will likely say, '고객님의 요금 명세서를 확인해 보겠습니다' (I will check your billing statement). This word is the standard formal term used by institutions to refer to the breakdown of your usage and costs.

In technical fields, such as software development or architecture, '명세서' is heard during planning meetings. A lead developer might ask for the 요구 사항 명세서 (requirements specification document) before starting a sprint. In this context, it isn't about money but about the 'details' of what the software should do. Therefore, depending on where you are—a bank, a construction site, or a software firm—the 'flavor' of the word changes slightly from 'bill breakdown' to 'technical blueprint.'

기술 명세서에 따라 작업을 진행해 주세요. (Please proceed with the work according to the technical specifications.)

One of the most common mistakes learners make with 명세서 is confusing it with other 'document' words like 영수증 (receipt) or 청구서 (bill/invoice). While they are related and often come together, they serve different functions. A receipt is proof of payment, a bill is a request for payment, but a 명세서 is the *detailed breakdown* of what that payment actually consists of.

명세서 vs. 영수증: If you buy a coffee, you get a receipt (영수증). It shows the total. If you buy 50 computers for a company, you need a transaction statement (거래 명세서) that lists the model numbers, unit prices, and serial numbers. Using '영수증' when you need a detailed breakdown for accounting purposes is a common error in professional settings.

Wrong: 영수증에 세부 내역이 없어요. (The receipt doesn't have details.)
Better: 명세서를 확인해야 세부 내역을 알 수 있어요. (You need to check the statement to see the detailed breakdown.)

Another mistake is using the word 설명서 (manual/instructions) when you mean technical specifications. While both provide information, a 설명서 tells you *how to use* something, while a 명세서 tells you *what it is made of* or its exact requirements. If a developer asks for a '명세서' and you give them a '설명서,' they will be looking at a user manual instead of a technical blueprint.

Finally, learners sometimes struggle with the level of formality. '명세서' is a formal, Sino-Korean word. In very casual contexts, people might just say '내역' (details) or '종이' (paper), but when dealing with banks, bosses, or clients, failing to use '명세서' can make you sound unprofessional. It is a word that commands a certain level of administrative respect.

While 명세서 is the most comprehensive term for a detailed statement, several other words overlap in meaning depending on the specific context. Understanding these nuances will help you choose the most precise word for your situation.

내역서 (Nae-yeok-seo): This is the closest synonym. 내역서 also means a statement of details or a breakdown. However, 명세서 is often used for official, recurring documents like bank statements or technical specs, while 내역서 is frequently used for one-off breakdowns of expenses or history (e.g., '지출 내역서' - expense report).

사양서 (Sa-yang-seo): Specifically used in technical and manufacturing fields. It translates to 'specification sheet.' While a 명세서 can be a financial statement, a 사양서 is strictly about the physical or technical attributes of a product (like RAM, CPU, or dimensions).

컴퓨터의 명세서보다는 '사양서'라는 표현이 기술적으로 더 정확합니다. (Using '사양서' is technically more accurate than '명세서' for computer specs.)

청구서 (Cheong-gu-seo): An 'invoice' or 'bill.' This document asks for money. While a 청구서 often *includes* a 명세서 (the breakdown of charges), the primary purpose of the 청구서 is the demand for payment.

In summary, use 명세서 for general detailed statements, 내역서 for breakdowns of history or costs, 사양서 for technical specs, and 청구서 for bills. Mastering these distinctions will make your Korean sound much more sophisticated and professional.

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

The character '細' (se) originally depicted fine silk threads, implying the level of detail in a 명세서 should be as fine as thread.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /mjʌŋ.se.sʌ/

US /mjʌŋ.se.sʌ/

In Korean, stress is generally even across syllables, but a slight emphasis on the first syllable '명' is common.

Rhymes With

보고서 (bo-go-seo) 증명서 (jeung-myeong-seo) 신청서 (sin-cheong-seo) 계획서 (gye-hwek-seo) 이력서 (i-ryeok-seo) 안내서 (an-nae-seo) 제안서 (je-an-seo) 확인서 (hwak-in-seo)

Common Errors

Pronouncing 'seo' (서) as 'so' (소).
Dropping the 'ng' sound in 'myeong' (명).

Difficulty Rating

Reading 3/5

The word itself is easy, but the content of a 명세서 often contains difficult Hanja-based vocabulary.

Writing 4/5

Requires knowledge of formal business particles and verbs like '발급' or '기재.'

Speaking 3/5

Pronunciation is straightforward, but it's used mostly in formal situations.

Listening 3/5

Common in banking apps and office environments.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

서류 (document) 내역 (details) 확인하다 (to check) 돈 (money) 은행 (bank)

Learn Next

영수증 (receipt) 청구서 (bill) 세금 (tax) 계약서 (contract) 기재하다 (to record)

Advanced

특허 명세서 (patent spec) 재무제표 (financial statements) 시방서 (construction spec)

Grammar to Know

-에 따라 (According to)

명세서에 따라 물건을 확인했습니다.

-에 기재되다 (To be recorded in)

금액이 명세서에 잘못 기재되었습니다.

-를 토대로 (Based on)

명세서를 토대로 보고서를 작성했습니다.

-을/를 비롯하여 (Including...)

급여 명세서를 비롯하여 여러 서류가 필요합니다.

-에 관하여 (Regarding)

명세서의 내용에 관하여 질문이 있습니다.

Examples by Level

명세서를 보세요.

Look at the statement.

'명세서' is the object, followed by the object particle '-를' and the command '보세요.'

이것은 카드 명세서입니다.

This is a card statement.

'이것' (this) + '은' (topic particle) + '명세서' + '입니다' (is).

명세서가 어디에 있어요?

Where is the statement?

'명세서' + '가' (subject particle) + '어디에' (where) + '있어요' (is/exists).

명세서를 주세요.

Please give me the statement.

'주세요' is a polite request for an item.

명세서에 이름이 있어요.

There is a name on the statement.

'-에' indicates the location (on the statement).

오늘 명세서를 받았어요.

I received the statement today.

'받았어요' is the past tense of '받다' (to receive).

명세서가 아주 길어요.

The statement is very long.

'길어요' (is long) describes the physical or content length.

전화 명세서예요.

It is a phone statement.

'명세서' + '예요' (is) because it ends in a vowel sound (though written with a consonant, the final sound is 'seo').

이메일로 명세서를 확인하세요.

Check the statement via email.

'-로' indicates the means or method (via email).

급여 명세서를 꼭 읽어 보세요.

Make sure to read the pay stub.

'꼭' (surely/without fail) adds emphasis to the suggestion.

카드 명세서에 모르는 금액이 있어요.

There is an unknown amount on the card statement.

'모르는' is the present modifier form of '모르다' (to not know).

어제 명세서를 발급받았어요.

I had the statement issued yesterday.

'발급받다' is a common compound verb meaning 'to have issued and receive.'

명세서를 버리지 마세요.

Don't throw away the statement.

'-지 마세요' is the polite negative command (Don't...).

이번 달 명세서가 아직 안 왔어요.

This month's statement hasn't come yet.

'아직' (yet) and '안' (not) are used together for things that haven't happened.

명세서에서 날짜를 확인하세요.

Check the date on the statement.

'-에서' indicates the place where the action of checking occurs.

은행에서 명세서를 뽑을 수 있어요.

You can print the statement at the bank.

'뽑다' is often used colloquially for 'printing' or 'withdrawing' a document.

거래 명세서를 팩스로 보내 주시겠어요?

Could you send the transaction statement by fax?

'-주시겠어요?' is a very polite way to ask for a favor.

상세 명세서를 첨부 파일로 보냈습니다.

I sent the detailed statement as an attachment.

'상세' (detailed) emphasizes the '명세서' (statement).

물품 명세서와 실제 수량이 일치하지 않아요.

The itemized list and the actual quantity don't match.

'일치하지 않다' (to not match/coincide) is a formal expression.

급여 명세서에서 세금 공제 내역을 확인했습니다.

I checked the tax deduction details on the pay stub.

'공제' (deduction) is common terminology for '명세서.'

카드 명세서를 분실해서 재발급을 신청했어요.

I lost my card statement, so I applied for a re-issuance.

'-아서/어서' shows the reason (lost it) for the result (applied for re-issuance).

이 명세서에는 부가세가 포함되어 있습니다.

VAT is included in this statement.

'포함되어 있다' is the passive state of being included.

수리비 명세서를 보니 부품값이 비싸네요.

Looking at the repair bill, the parts are expensive.

'-보니까' (since I looked) shortened to '-보니.'

인터넷 뱅킹으로 명세서를 조회해 보세요.

Try looking up the statement via internet banking.

'조회하다' is the professional term for searching or looking up records.

요구 사항 명세서에 따라 개발을 진행하겠습니다.

We will proceed with development according to the requirements specification.

'-에 따라' means 'according to' or 'following.'

명세서에 기재된 내용은 사실과 다름없습니다.

The information listed on the statement is no different from the truth.

'기재되다' (to be recorded/listed) and '다름없다' (no different/same as).

제품의 기술 명세서를 꼼꼼히 검토해 주십시오.

Please review the product's technical specifications thoroughly.

'검토하다' (to review/examine) is more formal than '확인하다.'

거래 명세서 발급이 지연되어 죄송합니다.

We apologize for the delay in issuing the transaction statement.

'지연되다' (to be delayed) is a formal business term.

급여 명세서 교부는 고용주의 법적 의무입니다.

Providing a pay stub is a legal obligation of the employer.

'교부' (delivery/issuance) and '법적 의무' (legal obligation).

명세서의 항목별 금액을 다시 산정해야 합니다.

We need to recalculate the amounts for each item on the statement.

'항목별' (by item) and '산정하다' (to calculate/estimate).

카드 명세서를 종이 대신 모바일로 받기로 했어요.

I decided to receive my card statement via mobile instead of paper.

'-기로 하다' indicates a decision or plan.

설계 명세서의 오류로 인해 공사가 중단되었습니다.

Construction was halted due to an error in the design specifications.

'-로 인해' is a formal way to express a cause or reason.

이번 분기 원가 명세서를 분석한 결과, 비용 절감이 필요합니다.

As a result of analyzing this quarter's cost statement, cost reduction is necessary.

'분석한 결과' (as a result of analyzing) is a high-level report structure.

특허 명세서를 작성할 때는 용어 선택에 신중해야 합니다.

One must be careful with word choice when drafting a patent specification.

'신중해야 한다' (must be prudent/careful) is used for serious tasks.

수출입 명세서의 불일치로 인해 통관이 거부되었습니다.

Customs clearance was rejected due to discrepancies in the import/export statements.

'불일치' (discrepancy) and '통관' (customs clearance).

재무제표의 부속 명세서를 통해 세부 자산 현황을 파악할 수 있습니다.

Detailed asset status can be understood through the schedules attached to financial statements.

'부속 명세서' refers to supplementary schedules in accounting.

기술 명세서의 모호한 표현이 개발 과정에서 혼선을 초래했습니다.

Ambiguous expressions in the technical specs caused confusion during the development process.

'모호한' (ambiguous) and '혼선을 초래하다' (to cause confusion/lines crossing).

전자 명세서 시스템 도입으로 행정 효율성이 크게 향상되었습니다.

Administrative efficiency has greatly improved with the introduction of an electronic statement system.

'도입' (introduction/adoption) and '향상되었습니다' (has been improved).

명세서에 명시된 독소 조항을 삭제해 달라고 요청했습니다.

I requested the deletion of the poison pill clauses specified in the statement.

'명시된' (specified) and '독소 조항' (poison pill/toxic clause).

해당 명세서는 기밀 사항이므로 외부 유출을 금합니다.

As this statement contains confidential information, external leakage is prohibited.

'기밀 사항' (confidential matter) and '유출을 금하다' (prohibit leakage).

본 명세서는 계약의 불가분한 일체를 구성하며, 해석의 우선권을 가집니다.

This specification constitutes an inseparable part of the contract and holds priority in interpretation.

High-level legal terminology like '불가분한 일체' (inseparable whole).

설계 명세서의 구조적 결함이 대형 참사의 근본 원인으로 지목되었습니다.

Structural defects in the design specifications were identified as the root cause of the major disaster.

'지목되었습니다' (was pointed out/identified) in a formal investigative context.

정밀 기계의 부품 명세서는 마이크로미터 단위의 오차도 허용하지 않습니다.

The parts specification for precision machinery does not allow even a micrometer of error.

'허용하지 않다' (to not allow/tolerate) in a scientific context.

정보 주체는 자신의 데이터 이용 명세서에 대한 열람권을 행사할 수 있습니다.

Data subjects can exercise their right to access their data usage statements.

'정보 주체' (data subject) and '열람권을 행사하다' (exercise the right of access).

복잡한 파생 상품의 명세서를 완전히 이해하는 투자자는 드뭅니다.

Investors who fully understand the specifications of complex derivatives are rare.

'파생 상품' (derivatives) and '드뭅니다' (are rare).

기술 표준 명세서의 제정은 산업 생태계의 향방을 결정짓는 중차대한 사안입니다.

The establishment of technical standard specifications is a critical matter that determines the direction of the industrial ecosystem.

'중차대한 사안' (a matter of great importance).

명세서의 자구 하나하나가 법적 분쟁의 향방을 가를 수 있음을 유념해야 합니다.

One must keep in mind that every single word in the specification can decide the direction of a legal dispute.

'자구' (words and phrases) and '유념해야 한다' (must keep in mind).

시스템 아키텍처 명세서의 무결성은 소프트웨어의 장기적 유지보수성을 담보합니다.

The integrity of the system architecture specification guarantees the long-term maintainability of the software.

'무결성' (integrity) and '담보합니다' (guarantees/collateralizes).

Common Collocations

급여 명세서

카드 명세서

거래 명세서

요구 사항 명세서

기술 명세서

상세 명세서

명세서를 발급하다

명세서를 조회하다

명세서와 대조하다

명세서에 기재되다

Common Phrases

명세서를 뜯어보다

— To examine a statement very closely and critically.

그는 카드 명세서를 꼼꼼히 뜯어보았다.

명세서를 끊다

— To issue or print out a statement (colloquial).

여기 거래 명세서 좀 끊어 주세요.

명세서가 날아오다

— To receive a statement (usually by mail, implies it came suddenly or predictably).

벌써 카드 명세서가 날아왔네.

명세서를 맞추다

— To reconcile or match records with a statement.

장부와 명세서를 맞추는 작업이 힘들어요.

명세서를 챙기다

— To make sure to get or keep a statement.

나중에 필요할지 모르니 명세서를 잘 챙겨 두세요.

명세서가 깡통이다

— Slang: A statement that shows zero balance or no activity.

이번 달은 돈을 안 써서 명세서가 깡통이야.

명세서에 찍히다

— To be recorded or 'printed' on a statement (usually a charge).

명세서에 엉뚱한 금액이 찍혔어요.

명세서가 꼬이다

— To have errors or complications in a statement's details.

전산 오류로 명세서가 꼬인 것 같아요.

명세서를 돌려막다

— Slang: Related to credit card debt, paying one statement with another card.

카드 명세서를 돌려막는 건 위험해요.

명세서가 두껍다

— To have a very long statement (implies a lot of activity or spending).

이번 달은 명세서가 꽤 두껍네요.

Often Confused With

명세서 vs 영수증

A receipt is proof of payment; a 명세서 is the detailed breakdown of what was paid for.

명세서 vs 청구서

A bill is a request for payment; a 명세서 is the specification of the items/charges.

명세서 vs 설명서

A manual explains how to use something; a 명세서 explains what something is or its costs.

Idioms & Expressions

"명세서가 밥 먹여 주나"

— Will checking the statement put food on the table? (Used when someone is obsessing over small details pointlessly).

그렇게 명세서만 들여다본다고 명세서가 밥 먹여 주나?

Informal

"명세서에 이름도 못 올리다"

— To not even be significant enough to be listed (used for minor players or items).

그 선수는 이번 대회 명세서에 이름도 못 올렸어.

Informal/Slang

"명세서를 읊다"

— To list items or details out loud like reading from a statement.

그는 자기가 한 일을 명세서 읊듯이 말했다.

Neutral

"명세서가 훤하다"

— To know the details so well it's like looking at a clear statement.

내 머릿속에 그 사업 명세서가 훤하다.

Neutral

"명세서대로 살다"

— To live strictly according to a planned budget or list.

그는 명세서대로 사는 아주 계획적인 사람이다.

Neutral

"명세서에 없는 소리"

— Something that wasn't agreed upon or is unexpected.

그건 명세서에도 없는 소리잖아요!

Informal

"명세서를 갈다"

— To completely revise a detailed plan or document.

프로젝트가 바뀌어서 명세서를 새로 갈아야 해.

Informal

"명세서가 춤을 추다"

— When numbers on a statement keep changing or are unstable.

물가가 올라서 명세서의 숫자들이 춤을 추네.

Informal

"명세서를 들이밀다"

— To present a detailed list of demands or facts aggressively.

그녀는 나에게 잘못한 일들의 명세서를 들이밀었다.

Informal

"명세서가 꽉 차다"

— To have a full schedule or a very busy list of items.

오늘 하루 일과 명세서가 아주 꽉 찼네.

Informal

Easily Confused

명세서 vs 내역서

Both mean 'detailed statement.'

명세서 is more formal/standard for official documents; 내역서 is used for general lists of history or activity.

카드 명세서 (Standard) vs. 지출 내역서 (General breakdown).

명세서 vs 시방서

Both can mean 'specification.'

시방서 is a technical jargon used almost exclusively in construction and civil engineering.

건축 시방서에 따라 자재를 골랐다.

명세서 vs 사양서

Both mean 'specification.'

사양서 refers to technical attributes (specs) of a product; 명세서 is broader (financial, legal, technical).

컴퓨터 사양서를 확인했다.

명세서 vs 보고서

Both are formal documents.

A 보고서 is a 'report' summarizing results; a 명세서 is a 'statement' listing details.

결과 보고서 vs. 비용 명세서.

명세서 vs 목록

Both are lists.

목록 is a simple 'list' or 'index'; 명세서 includes detailed descriptions and values/costs.

책 목록 vs. 구매 명세서.

Sentence Patterns

[Noun] 명세서예요.

카드 명세서예요.

명세서를 [Verb]-세요.

명세서를 확인하세요.

명세서에 [Noun]가/이 있어요.

명세서에 오류가 있어요.

[Noun] 명세서를 발급받다.

거래 명세서를 발급받았어요.

명세서에 기재된 [Noun]

명세서에 기재된 금액이 달라요.

명세서를 토대로 [Verb]

명세서를 토대로 정산했습니다.

[Noun] 명세서를 분석하다.

원가 명세서를 분석하고 있습니다.

명세서의 무결성을 [Verb]

명세서의 무결성을 검증해야 합니다.

Word Family

Nouns

명세 (detail/specification)

상세 (detail)

명세표 (detailed table/slip)

거래명세서 (transaction statement)

Verbs

명세하다 (to detail/specify - rare)

명시하다 (to specify/state clearly)

상세히 설명하다 (to explain in detail)

Adjectives

명세한 (detailed - rare, '상세한' is preferred)

상세하다 (to be detailed)

서류 (document)

내역 (breakdown)

항목 (item/entry)

목록 (list)

증빙 (verification/proof)

How to Use It

frequency

Highly frequent in adult life and professional settings.

Common Mistakes

Using '영수증' for a pay stub. → 급여 명세서
A pay stub provides a breakdown of earnings and deductions, which is a '명세서,' not just a 'receipt' of payment.
Saying '명세서' when you mean a user manual. → 설명서
A '명세서' is for technical specs or financial details; a '설명서' is for instructions on how to use a product.
Mispronouncing '서' as '소'. → 서 (Seo)
'Seo' is an open vowel sound like 'eo' in 'London.' 'So' means 'cow' or 'small,' which changes the meaning.
Using '명세' instead of '명세서' when referring to the document. → 명세서
'명세' refers to the details themselves. To refer to the physical or digital document, you must add '서'.
Confusing '청구서' (bill) with '명세서' (statement). → Context dependent.
While they are often the same piece of paper, '청구서' focuses on the amount owed, while '명세서' focuses on the breakdown of why it is owed.

Tips

Learn the Hanja

Knowing 明(Clear) and 細(Detailed) helps you understand words like '상세' (detail) and '명확' (clear). This makes learning related words much easier.

Keep Your Pay Stubs

In Korea, keeping your '급여 명세서' is important for proving your income when applying for loans or visas. Always save the PDF versions.

Use with '확인하다'

The most natural verb to use with 명세서 is '확인하다' (to check). Practice saying '명세서 확인했어요?' (Did you check the statement?).

Compound Nouns

명세서 is almost always used as part of a compound noun. Instead of just saying 'the statement,' say 'the card statement' (카드 명세서) or 'the bill statement' (요금 명세서).

Digital Transition

Most Koreans use '모바일 명세서' (mobile statement). If you use a Korean bank app, look for the '명세서' icon to see your spending breakdown.

Business Etiquette

When delivering goods to a Korean company, always provide a '거래 명세서.' It's a standard part of the delivery process and ensures you get paid correctly.

Personal Info

Because 명세서 contains sensitive info, always use terms like '보안 명세서' (secure statement) when discussing electronic versions.

Contextual Clues

If you see '서' at the end of a word, it's a document. Knowing '명세' + '서' helps you realize it's a 'details document.'

TOPIK Prep

This word often appears in TOPIK II reading sections, especially in advertisements or formal notices about service changes.

Polite Requests

When asking for a statement, use '발급해 주시겠어요?' (Could you issue it for me?). This is the most professional way to ask.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

'Myeong' (Clear) + 'Se' (Small/Fine) + 'Seo' (Document). Think: 'Clear Small Document' = Detailed Statement.

Visual Association

Imagine a magnifying glass over a long receipt, showing every tiny detail of where your money went.

Word Web

Bank Pay stub Details Document Audit Check List Specs

Challenge

Try to find a '명세서' in your own life today (like a phone bill or grocery receipt) and label the '항목' (items) in Korean.

Word Origin

Derived from Sino-Korean (Hanja). 明 (myeong) = clear/bright; 細 (se) = fine/detailed; 書 (seo) = document.

Original meaning: A document that makes fine details clear to see.

Sino-Korean

Cultural Context

Be careful when asking to see someone's '급여 명세서' as salary is a private matter in Korea.

In the US/UK, people often say 'statement' or 'invoice.' In Korea, 명세서 is the standard formal term for both financial and technical breakdowns.

Many K-Dramas show characters being shocked by a '카드 명세서' after a shopping spree. Labor unions in Korea often fight for more transparent '급여 명세서'.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

At the Bank

명세서 뽑아 주세요.
조회 내역 명세서가 필요해요.
카드 명세서 주소 변경해 주세요.
지난달 명세서가 안 왔어요.

At the Office

급여 명세서 확인해 보세요.
거래 명세서 첨부했습니다.
물품 명세서가 실제와 달라요.
명세서 결제 바랍니다.

Engineering/IT

요구 사항 명세서가 확정됐나요?
기술 명세서를 수정해야 합니다.
설계 명세서대로 작업하세요.
상세 명세서를 작성 중입니다.

Online Shopping

주문 명세서를 보여 주세요.
결제 명세서가 이메일로 발송되었습니다.
취소 명세서를 확인하고 싶어요.
배송 명세서에 송장 번호가 있어요.

Household Management

관리비 명세서가 너무 많이 나왔어.
가스 요금 명세서 어디 있지?
통신비 명세서를 줄여야겠어.
명세서를 모아 두는 편이에요.

Conversation Starters

"이번 달 카드 명세서 보셨어요? (Did you see this month's card statement?)"

"급여 명세서에 보너스가 포함되었나요? (Was the bonus included in the pay stub?)"

"거래 명세서를 팩스로 보내 주실 수 있나요? (Can you send the transaction statement by fax?)"

"기술 명세서에서 이 부분을 잘 모르겠어요. (I don't understand this part in the technical specs.)"

"명세서에 오류가 있는 것 같은데 확인해 주시겠어요? (I think there's an error in the statement, could you check?)"

Journal Prompts

오늘 받은 명세서를 보고 느낀 점을 써 보세요. (Write about your feelings after looking at a statement you received today.)

명세서가 왜 중요한지 자신의 생각을 정리해 보세요. (Summarize your thoughts on why statements are important.)

미래의 나에게 보내는 '꿈 명세서'를 작성해 보세요. (Write a 'Dream Specification' for your future self.)

가장 기억에 남는 (놀라웠던) 명세서에 대해 써 보세요. (Write about the most memorable or surprising statement you've received.)

종이 명세서와 전자 명세서 중 무엇을 선호하나요? (Do you prefer paper or electronic statements? Why?)

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

영수증은 돈을 냈다는 '증거'이고, 명세서는 그 돈이 '어디에, 어떻게' 쓰였는지 자세히 보여주는 '내역'입니다. 예를 들어, 마트 영수증은 전체 금액을 보여주지만, 거래 명세서는 물건 하나하나의 단가와 수량을 보여줍니다.

급여 명세서에는 기본급뿐만 아니라 각종 수당, 세금, 4대 보험료 등이 자세히 적혀 있습니다. 계산이 잘못되었을 경우 이를 근거로 수정을 요청할 수 있기 때문에 반드시 확인해야 합니다.

해당 카드사의 홈페이지나 모바일 앱에서 '명세서 재발급' 또는 '이용 내역 조회' 메뉴를 통해 다시 확인하거나 출력할 수 있습니다.

네, 성인들의 일상 대화에서 매우 자주 쓰입니다. 특히 돈 관리, 직장 생활, 또는 기술적인 이야기를 할 때 필수적인 단어입니다.

제품을 만들거나 소프트웨어를 개발할 때 필요한 구체적인 기능, 성능, 재료 등을 적어 놓은 문서를 말합니다. 개발자나 엔지니어들에게는 설계도와 같은 역할을 합니다.

'명세'는 자세한 내용 그 자체를 뜻하고, '명세서'는 그 내용을 적은 '서류(종이)'를 뜻합니다.

명세서에는 이름, 주소, 계좌 번호 등 개인 정보가 많이 포함되어 있습니다. 따라서 버릴 때는 반드시 개인 정보가 보이지 않게 파쇄하거나 잘게 찢어서 버려야 합니다.

대부분의 금융 기관은 보안 메일을 사용하므로 비밀번호(보통 생년월일)를 입력해야 열 수 있습니다. 종이 명세서보다 분실 위험이 적어 더 안전할 수도 있습니다.

네, 거의 같은 의미로 쓰입니다. '표'는 표 형식임을 강조하고, '서'는 문서임을 강조하지만 실무에서는 혼용해서 사용합니다.

즉시 해당 기관(은행, 카드사 등)의 고객 센터에 전화해서 확인해야 합니다. 명세서는 증빙 자료가 되므로 상담 시 명세서의 내용을 바탕으로 설명하면 좋습니다.