보기
보기 in 30 Seconds
- Means 'example' or 'instance'.
- Refers to multiple-choice options.
- Used heavily in textbooks and tests.
- Collocates with the verb 들다 (to give).
- Literal Meaning
- The act of seeing or something presented to be seen.
다음 보기와 같이 문장을 완성하십시오.
- Test Context
- Refers to the multiple-choice options provided in an exam.
보기 중에서 알맞은 것을 고르십시오.
이해하기 쉽게 보기를 들어 줄게요.
- Compound Usage
- Used as a suffix to indicate the action of viewing or sampling something.
이것은 맛보기입니다.
주말마다 장보기를 해요.
- Key Collocation
- 보기를 들다 (to give an example)
선생님이 좋은 보기를 들어 주셨어요.
- Instructional Phrase
- 보기와 같이 (like the example)
보기와 같이 대화를 완성하세요.
보기처럼 써 보세요.
- Selection Phrase
- 보기 중에서 (from among the choices)
보기 중에서 맞는 단어를 고르세요.
그것은 아주 훌륭한 보기입니다.
- Classroom Setting
- Used by teachers to introduce sample sentences and guide exercises.
책 15페이지의 보기를 보세요.
다음 보기를 읽고 물음에 답하십시오.
- Professional Setting
- Used in presentations to illustrate business strategies or data.
성공적인 마케팅의 보기를 보여드리겠습니다.
이 요리의 보기로 김치찌개를 만들겠습니다.
- Daily Life
- Used in compound words related to viewing or sampling.
시장에서 맛보기 음식을 먹었어요.
- Incorrect Verb Usage
- Using 주다 (to give) instead of 들다 (to raise) with 보기.
Incorrect: 보기를 주세요. / Correct: 보기를 들어 주세요.
- Contextual Confusion
- Using 보기 instead of 예를 들면 when saying 'for example' in conversation.
Incorrect: 과일이 좋아요. 보기로 사과요. / Correct: 과일이 좋아요. 예를 들면 사과요.
- Particle Errors
- Using incorrect particles when forming instructional phrases.
Incorrect: 보기에 같이 하세요. / Correct: 보기와 같이 하세요.
Incorrect: 보기를 고르세요. (Choose the example) / Correct: 보기 중에서 고르세요. (Choose from the examples)
- 예 (ye)
- The most general word for 'example.' Often used in the phrase 예를 들면 (for example).
이것은 좋은 예입니다.
- 예시 (yesi)
- A more formal word meaning 'illustration' or 'exemplification.'
구체적인 예시를 보여주세요.
- 사례 (sarye)
- Translates to 'case' or 'precedent.' Used for real-world examples or case studies.
비슷한 사례가 많이 있습니다.
그는 학생들의 좋은 본보기가 되었습니다.
How Formal Is It?
"제시된 보기 중에서 가장 적절한 어휘를 선택하십시오."
"이해하기 쉽게 보기를 하나 들어 줄게요."
"이거 어떻게 하는 거야? 보기 좀 보여줘."
"우리 친구들, 선생님이 보여주는 보기를 잘 보세요!"
"아, 인생에 보기가 있었으면 좋겠다. (Joking about life being a multiple-choice test)"
Fun Fact
Because 보기 literally means 'seeing,' it is used in many compound words related to looking or experiencing. For instance, '장보기' (grocery shopping) literally means 'market seeing,' and '맛보기' (tasting sample) means 'taste seeing.' This shows how deeply the concept of visual observation is tied to practical experiences in the Korean language.
Pronunciation Guide
- Pronouncing the 'ㅂ' (b) as a strong English 'b'. It should be softer, almost like a 'p' without a puff of air.
- Pronouncing the 'o' in '보' as an English diphthong (oh-oo). Keep it a short, pure 'o'.
- Pronouncing the 'ㄱ' (g) as a hard 'k'. Because it is between two vowels (o and i), it becomes voiced and sounds like a soft 'g'.
- Putting heavy stress on the first syllable (BO-gi). Keep the syllables even.
- Confusing the pronunciation with 포기 (pogi - cabbage/giving up) by adding too much aspiration to the first consonant.
Difficulty Rating
Extremely easy. It is one of the first words you learn to read in a textbook.
Only two simple syllables (ㅂ+ㅗ, ㄱ+ㅣ). Very easy to write.
Easy to pronounce, but remembering to use the verb 들다 (to give) instead of 주다 can be tricky for beginners.
Clear and distinct pronunciation. Frequently heard in classrooms.
What to Learn Next
Prerequisites
Learn Next
Advanced
Grammar to Know
Nominalization with -기
보다 (to see) -> 보기 (example/seeing). 쓰다 (to write) -> 쓰기 (writing).
Noun + 와/과 같이 (Like Noun)
보기와 같이 (Like the example). 친구와 같이 (Like a friend / With a friend).
Noun + 처럼 (Like Noun)
보기처럼 (Like the example). 새처럼 (Like a bird).
Noun + 중에서 (Among/From Noun)
보기 중에서 (From the choices). 친구들 중에서 (Among friends).
Verb + 아/어 주다 (To do something for someone)
보기를 들어 주세요 (Please give an example for me).
Examples by Level
다음 보기를 보세요.
Look at the following example.
다음 (next/following) + 보기 (example) + 를 (object particle) + 보세요 (look - polite command).
보기와 같이 쓰세요.
Write it like the example.
보기 (example) + 와 같이 (like/together with) + 쓰세요 (write - polite command).
보기에서 고르세요.
Choose from the examples.
보기 (example/choices) + 에서 (from) + 고르세요 (choose - polite command).
이것은 보기입니다.
This is an example.
이것 (this) + 은 (topic particle) + 보기 (example) + 입니다 (is - formal polite).
보기가 어디에 있어요?
Where is the example?
보기 (example) + 가 (subject particle) + 어디에 (where) + 있어요 (is/exists).
보기를 읽으세요.
Read the example.
보기 (example) + 를 (object particle) + 읽으세요 (read - polite command).
보기 1번이 정답입니다.
Example (Choice) number 1 is the correct answer.
보기 (choice) + 1번 (number 1) + 이 (subject particle) + 정답 (correct answer) + 입니다 (is).
좋은 보기가 있어요.
There is a good example.
좋은 (good - adjective modifier) + 보기 (example) + 가 (subject particle) + 있어요 (exists/have).
선생님, 보기를 들어 주세요.
Teacher, please give an example.
보기 (example) + 를 (object particle) + 들어 주세요 (please raise/give - from 들다).
보기처럼 문장을 만드세요.
Make a sentence like the example.
보기 (example) + 처럼 (like) + 문장 (sentence) + 을 (object particle) + 만드세요 (make).
이 문법의 보기가 무엇입니까?
What is an example of this grammar?
이 (this) + 문법 (grammar) + 의 (possessive particle) + 보기 (example) + 가 (subject particle) + 무엇 (what) + 입니까 (is - formal question).
보기 중에서 맞는 것을 찾으세요.
Find the correct one among the choices.
보기 (choices) + 중에서 (among/from) + 맞는 것 (correct thing) + 을 (object particle) + 찾으세요 (find).
보기를 보면 이해하기 쉬워요.
If you look at the example, it is easy to understand.
보기 (example) + 를 보면 (if you look at) + 이해하기 (to understand) + 쉬워요 (is easy).
다른 보기를 하나 더 주세요.
Please give me one more different example.
다른 (different/other) + 보기 (example) + 를 + 하나 (one) + 더 (more) + 주세요 (give me).
주말에 엄마와 장보기를 했어요.
I went grocery shopping with my mom on the weekend.
장보기 (grocery shopping - compound noun) + 를 (object particle) + 했어요 (did).
시장에서 맛보기를 먹어 봤어요.
I tried eating a sample at the market.
맛보기 (tasting sample) + 를 (object particle) + 먹어 봤어요 (tried eating).
제가 이해하기 쉽게 보기를 들어 볼게요.
I will give an example so it's easy to understand.
제가 (I) + 이해하기 쉽게 (so it's easy to understand) + 보기를 들어 볼게요 (will try giving an example).
이 단어는 여러 가지 보기가 있습니다.
This word has various examples.
이 단어 (this word) + 는 (topic particle) + 여러 가지 (various kinds) + 보기 (example) + 가 있습니다 (exists/has).
보기와 실제 상황은 다를 수 있어요.
The example and the actual situation can be different.
보기 (example) + 와 (and) + 실제 상황 (actual situation) + 은 (topic particle) + 다를 수 있어요 (can be different).
시험 문제의 보기가 너무 헷갈려요.
The choices for the test question are too confusing.
시험 문제 (test question) + 의 (possessive) + 보기 (choices) + 가 (subject) + 너무 (too) + 헷갈려요 (are confusing).
그의 행동은 우리에게 좋은 보기가 됩니다.
His behavior becomes a good example for us.
그의 행동 (his behavior) + 은 (topic) + 우리에게 (to us) + 좋은 보기 (good example) + 가 됩니다 (becomes).
적절한 보기를 찾지 못해서 설명하기 어려워요.
It's hard to explain because I can't find an appropriate example.
적절한 보기 (appropriate example) + 를 찾지 못해서 (because I couldn't find) + 설명하기 (to explain) + 어려워요 (is hard).
보기의 대화를 듣고 질문에 답하십시오.
Listen to the example conversation and answer the questions.
보기의 대화 (example conversation) + 를 듣고 (listen and) + 질문에 (to the question) + 답하십시오 (answer - formal command).
이 문장은 문법적으로 틀린 보기입니다.
This sentence is a grammatically incorrect example.
이 문장 (this sentence) + 은 (topic) + 문법적으로 (grammatically) + 틀린 보기 (incorrect example) + 입니다 (is).
이 현상을 설명하기 위해 역사적인 보기를 들어 보겠습니다.
To explain this phenomenon, I will give a historical example.
현상 (phenomenon) + 을 설명하기 위해 (in order to explain) + 역사적인 보기 (historical example) + 를 들어 보겠습니다 (will try giving).
제시된 보기 중에서 가장 타당한 주장을 고르시오.
Choose the most valid argument among the presented choices.
제시된 보기 (presented choices) + 중에서 (among) + 가장 타당한 주장 (most valid argument) + 을 고르시오 (choose - formal written command).
그 회사의 성공은 혁신적인 경영의 대표적인 보기입니다.
That company's success is a representative example of innovative management.
성공 (success) + 은 (topic) + 혁신적인 경영 (innovative management) + 의 대표적인 보기 (representative example) + 입니다 (is).
이론만으로는 부족하니 구체적인 보기를 제시해 주시기 바랍니다.
Theory alone is insufficient, so please present a concrete example.
이론만으로는 부족하니 (since theory alone is insufficient) + 구체적인 보기 (concrete example) + 를 제시해 주시기 바랍니다 (please present).
환경 오염의 심각성을 보여주는 단적인 보기가 바로 이 강입니다.
A direct example showing the seriousness of environmental pollution is this very river.
심각성 (seriousness) + 을 보여주는 (that shows) + 단적인 보기 (direct/clear example) + 가 바로 이 강입니다 (is exactly this river).
그는 어려운 환경에서도 성공할 수 있다는 훌륭한 보기를 남겼다.
He left a great example that one can succeed even in difficult environments.
성공할 수 있다는 (that one can succeed) + 훌륭한 보기 (great example) + 를 남겼다 (left behind).
본문과 일치하지 않는 내용을 보기에서 모두 고르시오.
Choose all the contents from the choices that do not match the main text.
본문과 일치하지 않는 내용 (contents that do not match the main text) + 을 보기에서 (from the choices) + 모두 고르시오 (choose all).
이러한 정책의 부작용을 보여주는 보기는 수없이 많습니다.
There are countless examples showing the side effects of such policies.
정책의 부작용 (side effects of the policy) + 을 보여주는 보기 (examples showing) + 는 수없이 많습니다 (are countless).
이 사건은 자본주의 사회의 구조적 모순을 드러내는 전형적인 보기로 간주된다.
This incident is considered a typical example revealing the structural contradictions of capitalist society.
구조적 모순 (structural contradiction) + 을 드러내는 (revealing) + 전형적인 보기 (typical example) + 로 간주된다 (is considered as).
저자의 주장을 뒷받침하기 위해 인용된 보기들이 다소 편향적이라는 지적이 있다.
There is criticism that the examples cited to support the author's argument are somewhat biased.
인용된 보기들 (cited examples) + 이 다소 편향적이다 (are somewhat biased) + 라는 지적이 있다 (there is a criticism that).
과거의 실패를 반면교사의 보기로 삼아 새로운 전략을 수립해야 한다.
We must establish a new strategy by using past failures as an example to learn from (a negative example).
반면교사의 보기 (an example to learn from by negative implication) + 로 삼아 (by making it as) + 전략을 수립해야 한다 (must establish a strategy).
해당 조항의 해석을 명확히 하기 위해 대법원 판례를 보기로 들었다.
To clarify the interpretation of the relevant clause, a Supreme Court precedent was given as an example.
해석을 명확히 하기 위해 (to clarify the interpretation) + 대법원 판례 (Supreme Court precedent) + 를 보기로 들었다 (gave as an example).
이 예술 작품은 포스트모더니즘의 특징을 극명하게 보여주는 보기이다.
This artwork is an example that starkly shows the characteristics of postmodernism.
포스트모더니즘의 특징 (characteristics of postmodernism) + 을 극명하게 보여주는 (starkly showing) + 보기이다 (is an example).
설문조사의 신뢰성을 높이기 위해서는 다양한 계층의 응답을 보기로 포함시켜야 한다.
To increase the reliability of the survey, responses from various social strata must be included as examples.
다양한 계층의 응답 (responses from various strata) + 을 보기로 포함시켜야 한다 (must be included as examples).
그의 희생은 개인의 이익보다 공익을 우선시한 숭고한 보기로 역사에 기록될 것이다.
His sacrifice will be recorded in history as a noble example of prioritizing public interest over personal gain.
공익을 우선시한 (prioritizing public interest) + 숭고한 보기 (noble example) + 로 역사에 기록될 것이다 (will be recorded in history as).
복잡한 알고리즘의 작동 원리를 설명하기 위해 일상생활의 친숙한 보기를 활용했다.
To explain the operating principle of the complex algorithm, familiar examples from daily life were utilized.
작동 원리 (operating principle) + 를 설명하기 위해 (to explain) + 일상생활의 친숙한 보기 (familiar examples from daily life) + 를 활용했다 (utilized).
이 문헌은 고대 국어의 음운 체계를 재구하는 데 있어 결정적인 보기를 제공한다.
This document provides a crucial example in reconstructing the phonological system of ancient Korean.
음운 체계를 재구하는 데 있어 (in reconstructing the phonological system) + 결정적인 보기 (crucial example) + 를 제공한다 (provides).
해당 이론의 한계를 지적하는 반례로서 다음의 보기를 상정해 볼 수 있다.
As a counterexample pointing out the limitations of the theory, we can posit the following example.
한계를 지적하는 반례 (counterexample pointing out the limitations) + 로서 (as) + 다음의 보기 (the following example) + 를 상정해 볼 수 있다 (can posit).
그의 문체는 간결함과 명료함이 완벽한 조화를 이룬 한국 현대 문학의 백미이자 보기이다.
His writing style is the pinnacle and an exemplar of modern Korean literature, where conciseness and clarity achieve perfect harmony.
완벽한 조화를 이룬 (achieving perfect harmony) + 한국 현대 문학의 백미 (pinnacle of modern Korean literature) + 이자 보기이다 (and is an exemplar).
국제 사회의 제재에도 불구하고 핵 개발을 강행한 것은 국가 이기주의의 극단적인 보기라 할 만하다.
Pushing ahead with nuclear development despite international sanctions can be called an extreme example of national egoism.
핵 개발을 강행한 것 (pushing ahead with nuclear development) + 은 국가 이기주의의 극단적인 보기 (extreme example of national egoism) + 라 할 만하다 (can be called).
이러한 미시적 보기가 거시적 경제 지표의 변동을 온전히 설명해 낼 수 있는지는 의문이다.
It is questionable whether such a micro-level example can fully explain the fluctuations in macro-economic indicators.
미시적 보기 (micro-level example) + 가 거시적 경제 지표의 변동 (fluctuations in macro-economic indicators) + 을 온전히 설명해 낼 수 있는지는 의문이다 (it is questionable whether it can fully explain).
전통 건축의 처마 곡선은 자연과의 합일을 추구했던 선조들의 미의식을 보여주는 훌륭한 보기이다.
The curve of the eaves in traditional architecture is an excellent example showing our ancestors' aesthetic sense that pursued unity with nature.
자연과의 합일을 추구했던 (that pursued unity with nature) + 선조들의 미의식 (ancestors' aesthetic sense) + 을 보여주는 훌륭한 보기이다 (is an excellent example showing).
언어의 자의성을 증명하기 위해 소쉬르가 제시한 보기는 현대 언어학의 초석이 되었다.
The example presented by Saussure to prove the arbitrariness of language became the cornerstone of modern linguistics.
언어의 자의성을 증명하기 위해 (to prove the arbitrariness of language) + 소쉬르가 제시한 보기 (the example presented by Saussure) + 는 현대 언어학의 초석이 되었다 (became the cornerstone of modern linguistics).
무분별한 개발이 초래한 생태계 파괴의 참혹한 보기를 우리는 이미 여러 차례 목도한 바 있다.
We have already witnessed several times the gruesome examples of ecosystem destruction caused by reckless development.
무분별한 개발이 초래한 (caused by reckless development) + 생태계 파괴의 참혹한 보기 (gruesome examples of ecosystem destruction) + 를 우리는 이미 여러 차례 목도한 바 있다 (we have already witnessed several times).
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
다음 보기를 읽고
보기에서 알맞은 말을 골라
보기를 보여주다
보기 드문
보기 좋다
보기 싫다
보기보다
장보기
맛보기
미리보기
Often Confused With
Both mean example. '보기' is used for specific, visual examples in texts or multiple-choice options. '예' is used for general, conversational examples (e.g., 'for example').
Sounds similar but means 'giving up' or is a counter for heads of cabbage (e.g., 배추 한 포기). Ensure the 'ㅂ' is soft, not aspirated like 'ㅍ'.
This is the nominalized form of the passive/causative verb '보이다' (to be seen / to show). '보기' is from the active verb '보다' (to see).
Idioms & Expressions
"보기 좋은 떡이 먹기도 좋다"
A rice cake that looks good also tastes good. This proverb means that appearance matters, and something that is well-presented is likely to be of good quality.
음식을 예쁘게 담으세요. 보기 좋은 떡이 먹기도 좋잖아요. (Plate the food nicely. A rice cake that looks good also tastes good, you know.)
informal"수박 겉 핥기 보기"
Looking at the outside of a watermelon. This means examining something only superficially without understanding its true nature or depth.
그의 보고서는 수박 겉 핥기 보기 식이다. (His report is like licking the outside of a watermelon [superficial].)
neutral"남의 떡이 더 커 보인다"
Another person's rice cake looks bigger. The Korean equivalent of 'The grass is always greener on the other side.' (Uses 보이다, related to 보기).
항상 남의 떡이 더 커 보이는 법이죠. (Another person's rice cake always looks bigger, as they say.)
informal"백문이 불여일견"
Hearing a hundred times is not as good as seeing once. Seeing is believing. (Sino-Korean idiom related to the concept of 보기).
백문이 불여일견이라고, 직접 가서 봅시다. (Seeing is believing, so let's go and see for ourselves.)
formal"눈꼴이 시다 (보기 싫다)"
To be an eyesore; to be disgusted by seeing something. Often used to describe overly affectionate couples or arrogant behavior.
그들의 잘난 척하는 모습은 정말 보기 싫다. (Their show-off behavior is really an eyesore.)
informal"보기만 해도 배부르다"
Just looking at it makes me full. Used when looking at something very satisfying, like one's successful children or a beautiful piece of art.
우리 아이들이 맛있게 먹는 것을 보기만 해도 배불러요. (Just looking at my children eating deliciously makes me full.)
informal"선보기"
To have a blind date arranged by matchmakers (선).
이번 주말에 선보기로 했어요. (I decided to go on a matchmaking blind date this weekend.)
neutral"눈치 보기"
Reading the room; walking on eggshells; trying to gauge someone's mood.
상사의 눈치 보기가 너무 힘들어요. (It's too hard constantly trying to gauge the boss's mood.)
neutral"간 보기"
Tasting to check the seasoning, but idiomatically used to mean 'testing the waters' or 'gauging someone's reaction' before committing.
그는 결정하지 않고 계속 간 보기만 하고 있다. (He isn't deciding and is just continuously testing the waters.)
informal"본보기로 삼다"
To make an example of someone (often as a warning or a model).
그를 본보기로 삼아 처벌했다. (They punished him to make an example of him.)
formalEasily Confused
Direct translation of 'example'.
'예' is used in the phrase '예를 들면' (for example) in speech. '보기' is the physical example box in a book or the choices (1,2,3,4) on a test.
예를 들면 (For example) vs. 보기 1번 (Choice number 1).
Both mean example or illustration.
'예시' is a formal, Sino-Korean word used in academic or official writing. '보기' is a pure Korean word used in general education and tests.
구체적인 예시 (Concrete illustration) vs. 다음 보기 (The following example).
Translates to 'example' or 'case'.
'사례' refers to a real-world event or case study (e.g., a business case). '보기' can be a hypothetical sentence created just for a textbook.
성공 사례 (Success case) vs. 문법 보기 (Grammar example).
Contains the word '보기' and means example.
'본보기' specifically means a 'role model' or an 'exemplar' that people should imitate. '보기' is just a neutral illustration.
학생들의 본보기 (A role model for students) vs. 문제의 보기 (Example for a question).
Means sample or example.
'표본' is used in scientific or statistical contexts to mean a 'specimen' or 'data sample'. '보기' is an instructional example.
혈액 표본 (Blood sample) vs. 보기와 같이 (Like the example).
Sentence Patterns
다음 [Noun]을/를 보세요.
다음 보기를 보세요. (Look at the following example.)
[Noun]와/과 같이 [Verb]세요.
보기와 같이 쓰세요. (Write it like the example.)
[Noun]을/를 들어 주세요.
보기를 들어 주세요. (Please give an example.)
[Noun] 중에서 [Verb]세요.
보기 중에서 고르세요. (Choose from the choices.)
제가 [Noun]을/를 들어 볼게요.
제가 보기를 들어 볼게요. (I will try giving an example.)
[Noun]은/는 좋은 [Noun]가 됩니다.
그것은 좋은 보기가 됩니다. (That becomes a good example.)
[Noun]을/를 설명하기 위해 [Noun]을/를 들어 보겠습니다.
이론을 설명하기 위해 보기를 들어 보겠습니다. (To explain the theory, I will give an example.)
[Noun]은/는 [Noun]의 전형적인 보기로 간주된다.
이 사건은 실패의 전형적인 보기로 간주된다. (This incident is considered a typical example of failure.)
Word Family
Nouns
Verbs
Adjectives
Related
How to Use It
Extremely High (Top 500 words in educational contexts).
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보기를 주다 (To give an example)
→
보기를 들다
Directly translating 'give an example' leads to using the verb '주다' (to give). In Korean, the natural expression is '보기를 들다', which literally means 'to raise an example'.
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보기에 같이 하세요 (Do it like the example)
→
보기와 같이 하세요
Learners often use the location particle '에' incorrectly. To say 'like' or 'together with', you must use '와/과 같이' or '처럼'.
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보기를 고르세요 (Choose the example)
→
보기 중에서 고르세요
If you want someone to choose an answer from a list of options, you must use '중에서' (from among). '보기를 고르세요' means 'select the example itself', which is usually not the intended meaning.
-
과일이 좋아요. 보기로 사과요. (I like fruit. For example, apples.)
→
과일이 좋아요. 예를 들면 사과요.
'보기' is not used as a conversational transition for 'for example'. You should use '예를 들면' (if I lift an example) in spoken Korean.
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그는 나의 보기입니다. (He is my example/role model.)
→
그는 나의 본보기입니다.
'보기' is a neutral illustration. If you are talking about a person who is a role model or someone to emulate, you must use the word '본보기' or '모범'.
Tips
Memorize the Verb '들다'
Always pair '보기' with the verb '들다' (to lift/raise) when you want to say 'give an example'. '보기를 들다' is the golden rule.
Recognize Test Instructions
If you are taking the TOPIK, memorize the phrase '보기 중에서 고르십시오' (Choose from the options). It will save you time reading instructions.
Understand the '-기' Suffix
Recognize that '-기' turns verbs into nouns. 보다 (to see) -> 보기 (example/seeing). This will help you understand words like 쓰기 (writing) and 듣기 (listening).
Use '예를 들면' for Conversation
When chatting with friends and you want to say 'for example...', use '예를 들면' instead of '보기'. Save '보기' for referring to textbook examples.
Market Vocabulary
When visiting a Korean market, listen for '맛보기' (tasting sample). Vendors will offer you food saying '맛보기 하세요' (Please try a sample).
Correct Particles
When instructing someone to follow an example, use the particle '와' or '과' + '같이'. '보기와 같이' (Like the example).
Soft Consonants
Don't pronounce '보기' with strong English B and G sounds. Keep the 'ㅂ' soft (almost like a P) and the 'ㄱ' voiced (like a soft G).
Multiple Meanings
Don't be confused if you see '미리보기' on a website. It just means 'preview' (advance viewing), using the literal meaning of 보기.
Formal Writing
If you are writing a formal essay or business report, upgrade '보기' to '예시' (illustration) or '사례' (case) to sound more professional.
Look for the Box
In any Korean learning material, look for the shaded box. The word '보기' will almost always be there, guiding you on how to complete the task.
Memorize It
Mnemonic
Imagine a BOy (보) wearing a GI (기 - martial arts uniform) demonstrating a perfect kick. He is the 'example' (보기) for the rest of the class to follow.
Visual Association
Visualize a Korean textbook page. In the middle of the page, there is a brightly colored box with the word 보기 written at the top. Inside the box is a sample sentence. This visual is exactly how you will encounter the word 90% of the time.
Word Web
Challenge
Next time you open a Korean textbook or take a practice test, take a highlighter and mark every instance of the word 보기. Count how many times it appears in one chapter. You will be surprised by its frequency!
Word Origin
The word 보기 is a pure Korean word. It is formed by combining the verb stem 보- (bo-), from the verb 보다 (boda, meaning 'to see' or 'to look'), with the nominalizing suffix -기 (-gi). This suffix transforms the verb into a noun, creating the literal meaning 'the act of seeing' or 'something to be seen.' Over time, in educational and instructional contexts, 'something to be seen' evolved to mean 'an example' or 'an illustration' presented for reference.
Original meaning: The act of seeing, viewing, or looking at something.
Koreanic (Pure Korean / Native Korean)Cultural Context
There are no specific cultural sensitivities or offensive connotations associated with the word 보기. It is a neutral, educational term.
In English, we say 'for example' in almost all contexts. In Korean, you must distinguish between the conversational '예를 들면' and the instructional '보기'.
Practice in Real Life
Real-World Contexts
Taking a Test
- 보기에서 고르시오 (Choose from the choices)
- 다음 보기를 읽고 (Read the following example)
- 보기 1번 (Choice number 1)
- 정답은 보기에 없습니다 (The answer is not in the choices)
Learning Grammar
- 보기와 같이 문장을 완성하세요 (Complete the sentence like the example)
- 보기를 봅시다 (Let's look at the example)
- 이 문법의 보기가 뭐예요? (What is an example of this grammar?)
- 좋은 보기네요 (That's a good example)
Explaining a Concept
- 보기를 들어 설명할게요 (I will explain by giving an example)
- 쉬운 보기를 들어 주세요 (Please give an easy example)
- 단적인 보기입니다 (It is a direct example)
- 예를 들어서 (For example - using the synonym)
Grocery Shopping (Compound Use)
- 장보기 (Grocery shopping)
- 장보러 가다 (To go grocery shopping)
- 주말 장보기 (Weekend grocery shopping)
- 온라인 장보기 (Online grocery shopping)
Food Markets (Compound Use)
- 맛보기 (Tasting sample)
- 맛보기 음식 (Sample food)
- 맛보기로 조금 주세요 (Please give me a little as a sample)
- 무료 맛보기 (Free sample)
Conversation Starters
"한국어 문법이 너무 어려워요. 선생님, 이해하기 쉬운 보기를 하나 들어 주시겠어요?"
"이 단어의 뜻을 잘 모르겠어요. 사전에서 보기를 찾아볼까요?"
"시험 문제 보기가 너무 비슷해서 고르기 힘들었어요. 너는 어땠어?"
"주말에 마트에 장보기 하러 갈 건데, 같이 갈래? 맛보기 코너도 많아!"
"그 사람의 행동은 정말 좋은 본보기가 되는 것 같아요. 어떻게 생각하세요?"
Journal Prompts
Write about a time when a specific '보기' (example) helped you finally understand a difficult Korean grammar point.
Describe your typical '장보기' (grocery shopping) routine. Where do you go and what do you buy?
If you were a teacher, what kind of '보기' would you use to explain your favorite hobby to someone?
Have you ever taken a Korean test like the TOPIK? Describe your experience reading the '보기' sections.
Who is a '본보기' (role model) in your life, and why do you look up to them?
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questionsWhile people might understand you, it sounds unnatural. The correct Korean collocation is '보기를 들다' (literally, to lift/raise an example). Always use '들다' with '보기' or '예'.
'보기' is highly visual and instructional. It refers to the sample sentences in a textbook or the options in a multiple-choice test. '예' is a more general concept of an example, most commonly used in the phrase '예를 들면' (for example) during a conversation.
No. Because it is the noun form of '보다' (to see), it can also mean 'viewing' or 'seeing'. You see this in compound words like '장보기' (grocery shopping) or '미리보기' (preview).
You can use the word '보기'. When a teacher says '보기 중에서 고르세요', they mean 'Choose from the options (1, 2, 3, 4)'. Another formal word for options is '선택지'.
It is a pure Korean word, derived from the native Korean verb '보다' (to see) and the native suffix '-기'.
You can politely say, '선생님, 보기를 하나 들어 주시겠어요?' (Teacher, could you please give an example?).
It translates to 'like the example' or 'as shown in the example'. It is the most common instruction you will see in Korean workbooks.
Usually, no. If you want to say someone is a 'good example' or a 'role model', you should use the word '본보기' (bonbogi) or '모범' (mobeom).
It is a compound word meaning 'tasting sample'. You will hear this often in Korean markets or supermarkets when vendors offer free bites of food.
Because the 'ㄱ' (g/k) is located between two vowels (o and i), it becomes voiced. It should sound like a soft English 'g', not a hard 'k'.
Test Yourself 200 questions
Translate to Korean: 'Look at the following example.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
다음 보기를 보세요.
다음 (following) + 보기 (example) + 를 (object particle) + 보세요 (look).
다음 (following) + 보기 (example) + 를 (object particle) + 보세요 (look).
Translate to Korean: 'Please give an example.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
보기를 들어 주세요.
Use the verb 들다 (to give/raise) + 아/어 주세요 (please do).
Use the verb 들다 (to give/raise) + 아/어 주세요 (please do).
Translate to Korean: 'Choose from the choices.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
보기 중에서 고르세요.
보기 (choices) + 중에서 (from among) + 고르세요 (choose).
보기 (choices) + 중에서 (from among) + 고르세요 (choose).
Translate to Korean: 'Write it like the example.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
보기와 같이 쓰세요.
보기 (example) + 와 같이 (like) + 쓰세요 (write).
보기 (example) + 와 같이 (like) + 쓰세요 (write).
Translate to Korean: 'I went grocery shopping on the weekend.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
주말에 장보기를 했어요.
장보기 (grocery shopping) + 를 했어요 (did).
장보기 (grocery shopping) + 를 했어요 (did).
Translate to Korean: 'This is a good example.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
이것은 좋은 보기입니다.
이것은 (this) + 좋은 (good) + 보기입니다 (is an example).
이것은 (this) + 좋은 (good) + 보기입니다 (is an example).
Translate to Korean: 'I ate a tasting sample at the market.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
시장에서 맛보기를 먹었어요.
맛보기 (tasting sample) + 를 먹었어요 (ate).
맛보기 (tasting sample) + 를 먹었어요 (ate).
Translate to Korean: 'Check the document preview.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
문서 미리보기를 확인하세요.
미리보기 (preview) + 를 확인하세요 (check).
미리보기 (preview) + 를 확인하세요 (check).
Translate to Korean: 'He is a role model for students.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
그는 학생들의 본보기입니다.
본보기 (role model/exemplar) + 입니다 (is).
본보기 (role model/exemplar) + 입니다 (is).
Translate to Korean: 'It is more delicious than it looks.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
보기보다 맛있어요.
보기 (looks/appearance) + 보다 (than) + 맛있어요 (is delicious).
보기 (looks/appearance) + 보다 (than) + 맛있어요 (is delicious).
Translate to Korean: 'Read the example conversation.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
보기의 대화를 읽으세요.
보기의 (example's) + 대화를 (conversation) + 읽으세요 (read).
보기의 (example's) + 대화를 (conversation) + 읽으세요 (read).
Translate to Korean: 'Choice number 1 is the correct answer.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
보기 1번이 정답입니다.
보기 1번 (choice 1) + 이 (subject) + 정답입니다 (is the correct answer).
보기 1번 (choice 1) + 이 (subject) + 정답입니다 (is the correct answer).
Translate to Korean: 'I will explain by giving an example.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
보기를 들어 설명할게요.
보기를 들어 (giving an example and) + 설명할게요 (will explain).
보기를 들어 (giving an example and) + 설명할게요 (will explain).
Translate to Korean: 'That is a bad example.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
그것은 나쁜 보기입니다.
나쁜 (bad) + 보기입니다 (is an example).
나쁜 (bad) + 보기입니다 (is an example).
Translate to Korean: 'It is a rare talent.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
보기 드문 재능입니다.
보기 드문 (rare to see) + 재능입니다 (is a talent).
보기 드문 (rare to see) + 재능입니다 (is a talent).
Translate to Korean: 'The choices are confusing.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
보기가 헷갈려요.
보기가 (the choices) + 헷갈려요 (are confusing).
보기가 (the choices) + 헷갈려요 (are confusing).
Translate to Korean: 'I watched the drama replay.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
드라마 다시보기를 했어요.
다시보기 (replay) + 를 했어요 (did).
다시보기 (replay) + 를 했어요 (did).
Translate to Korean: 'A rice cake that looks good tastes good.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
보기 좋은 떡이 먹기도 좋다.
Korean proverb using 보기 좋다 (looks good).
Korean proverb using 보기 좋다 (looks good).
Translate to Korean: 'I hate to see that.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
그것은 보기 싫어요.
보기 싫어요 (hate to see / looks bad).
보기 싫어요 (hate to see / looks bad).
Translate to Korean: 'Please present a clear example.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
명확한 보기를 제시해 주세요.
명확한 (clear) + 보기를 (example) + 제시해 주세요 (please present).
명확한 (clear) + 보기를 (example) + 제시해 주세요 (please present).
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Polite request using 보기를 들다.
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Instruction using 보기 중에서 (from the choices).
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Using the compound noun 장보기.
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Descriptive sentence using 좋은 보기.
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Instruction using 보기와 같이.
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Polite request using 맛보기.
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Using the comparative 보기보다.
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Standard instruction using 다음 보기.
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Referring to a specific option using 보기 1번.
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Using the collocation 보기를 들다 + 설명하다.
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Using the specific word 본보기 for a person.
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Using the compound noun 다시보기.
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Using the compound noun 미리보기.
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Using the phrase 보기 좋다.
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Using the phrase 보기 싫다.
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Using the phrase 보기 드문.
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Using the compound noun 눈치보기.
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Using the slang/idiom 간보기.
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Referring to a specific part of an example.
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Referring to the options provided.
학생들은 지금 무엇을 봐야 합니까?
The teacher tells the students to look at the '보기' (example).
여자는 남자를 위해 무엇을 할 것입니까?
The woman offers to give an example (보기를 들어 줄게요).
수험생은 어디에서 답을 골라야 합니까?
The announcement says to choose from the '보기' (choices).
두 사람은 주말에 무엇을 할 것입니까?
They will do '장보기' (grocery shopping).
상인이 손님에게 준 것은 무엇입니까?
The vendor gives a '맛보기' (tasting sample).
여자는 케이크에 대해 어떻게 생각합니까?
She uses the proverb '보기 좋은 떡이 먹기도 좋다' (looks good, tastes good).
문서를 확인하기 위해 무엇을 눌러야 합니까?
He tells her to click '미리보기' (preview).
여자는 축구 경기를 어떻게 볼 것입니까?
She will watch it via '다시보기' (replay/catch-up).
학생들은 무엇을 본보기로 삼아야 합니까?
The teacher says to take the seniors' attitude as a '본보기' (role model).
남자는 음식에 대해 어떻게 말합니까?
He says it is less spicy than it looks (보기보다 안 매워).
여자는 문제에 대해 어떻게 생각합니까?
She thinks there is no answer in the '보기' (choices).
남자는 두 사람의 모습을 보고 어떻게 느꼈습니까?
He says it '보기 좋다' (looks pleasant/good).
남자는 방을 보고 어떻게 말했습니까?
He says the messy room is '보기 싫다' (hate to see/looks bad).
여자는 선수에 대해 어떻게 평가합니까?
She says the player has a '보기 드문' (rare) talent.
남자는 회의 시간에 무엇이 힘들었습니까?
He found '눈치보기' (reading the boss's mood) difficult.
/ 200 correct
Perfect score!
Summary
The word 보기 is your key to understanding Korean test instructions and textbook exercises. Remember the phrase '보기를 들다' to naturally say 'to give an example' in Korean.
- Means 'example' or 'instance'.
- Refers to multiple-choice options.
- Used heavily in textbooks and tests.
- Collocates with the verb 들다 (to give).
Memorize the Verb '들다'
Always pair '보기' with the verb '들다' (to lift/raise) when you want to say 'give an example'. '보기를 들다' is the golden rule.
Recognize Test Instructions
If you are taking the TOPIK, memorize the phrase '보기 중에서 고르십시오' (Choose from the options). It will save you time reading instructions.
Understand the '-기' Suffix
Recognize that '-기' turns verbs into nouns. 보다 (to see) -> 보기 (example/seeing). This will help you understand words like 쓰기 (writing) and 듣기 (listening).
Use '예를 들면' for Conversation
When chatting with friends and you want to say 'for example...', use '예를 들면' instead of '보기'. Save '보기' for referring to textbook examples.
Related Content
This Word in Other Languages
Related Phrases
More academic words
입체적
B2Having a three-dimensional effect or examining something from multiple perspectives rather than a single flat view. It implies a comprehensive and detailed analysis.
~에 관해
B1About, concerning.
~에 대하여
A2Concerning or regarding a particular subject; about.
~대해
A2About; concerning; regarding.
~에 관하여
A2Regarding, concerning, about (a topic).
~에 대해(서)
A1Indicates the topic or subject of discussion, meaning 'about' or 'regarding'.
무엇보다
A2More than anything else; above all.
결석생
A2A student who is absent from class.
추상화하다
B2To consider something theoretically or separately from its physical reality. It involves extracting general principles from specific examples.
추상
A2Abstraction; the quality of dealing with ideas rather than events.