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A1 noun #3,500 mais comum 9 min de leitura

상사

sangsa Top 3,500

Pratique Exemplos Notas e dicas 상사 em 30 segundos

Explicação 상사 in your Level:

At the A1 level, you just need to know that '상사' (sang-sa) means 'boss' or 'superior' at work. Think of it as the person who tells you what to do. You will mostly see it in simple sentences like 'My boss is kind' or 'I have a boss.' It is a noun, so it follows the same rules as 'friend' (친구) or 'teacher' (선생님). At this stage, don't worry too much about the complicated office ranks; just remember that 상사 is the general word for anyone above you at a job. You might hear it in basic introductory dialogues about jobs.

At the A2 level, you should start using '상사' with basic office-related verbs. You can say things like 'I am talking to my boss' (상사와 이야기해요) or 'My boss is busy' (상사가 바빠요). You should also learn the basic honorific form '상사님' even if you don't use it to their face. At this level, you begin to understand that Korean culture places a lot of importance on who is the '상사' and who is the '부하' (subordinate). You can describe your boss using simple adjectives like '좋다' (good), '무섭다' (scary), or '엄격하다' (strict).

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By B1, you should be comfortable using '상사' in more complex workplace scenarios. This includes discussing tasks, reporting progress, and understanding the social expectations of working under a superior. You should know phrases like '상사에게 보고하다' (to report to a boss) and '상사의 지시' (boss's instructions). You will also start encountering this word in dramas and news stories about work-life balance. You should be able to explain your relationship with your boss using transitional phrases and more varied vocabulary, such as '상사가 엄격하지만 배울 점이 많아요' (My boss is strict, but there is a lot to learn).

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At the B2 level, you understand the deeper cultural implications of '상사.' You can discuss topics like '직장 내 괴롭힘' (workplace harassment) or '상사와의 갈등' (conflict with a boss) using appropriate terminology. You understand that while '상사' is the word for the role, you must use specific titles (부장님, 과장님) when speaking directly. You can use '상사' in formal writing, like an essay about professional ethics or a cover letter. You also recognize the difference between '상사' (superior) and '상사' (trading company) or '상사' (military rank) based on the context of a long text or conversation.

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At the C1 level, you use '상사' with professional precision. You can analyze the '상사-부하' (superior-subordinate) relationship in the context of organizational psychology or Korean sociology. You are familiar with idiomatic expressions and nuances, such as how '상사' functions in the 'Gapjil' culture debate. You can navigate high-level business meetings where the '상사' is discussed in terms of leadership style (리더십 스타일) or management philosophy. Your use of honorifics and humble forms (jondaemal and euphemisms) when discussing your 상사 is flawless, reflecting a deep grasp of Korean social hierarchy.

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At the C2 level, you possess a native-like understanding of the word '상사' and its historical and social baggage. You can discuss the evolution of the term from traditional Confucian hierarchies to modern corporate structures. You can interpret subtle linguistic cues in literature or high-level political discourse where '상사' might be used metaphorically. You can effortlessly switch between '상사,' '상급자,' '윗분,' and specific titles depending on the exact social setting, audience, and intended tone. You are capable of debating the pros and cons of vertical vs. horizontal management styles in Korean, using '상사' as a key conceptual anchor.

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Pratique Exemplos Notas e dicas

상사 em 30 segundos

상사 (Sangsa) means boss or superior in a workplace context.
It is a noun used to describe the person above you in hierarchy.
In Korea, it implies a vertical relationship requiring respect and honorifics.
Commonly heard in office dramas and used when talking about managers.

The Korean word 상사 (Sangsa) is a foundational term for anyone navigating the professional landscape of South Korea. At its core, it translates to 'boss' or 'superior' in a workplace context. However, the weight of this word extends far beyond a simple job title; it encapsulates the hierarchical DNA of Korean society, which is heavily influenced by Neo-Confucian values that emphasize respect for those in higher positions. When you use the word 상사, you are not just identifying a manager; you are acknowledging a vertical relationship that dictates communication styles, social etiquette, and even body language.

The Etymological Root: The word is composed of two Hanja (Chinese characters): 상 (上) meaning 'above' or 'superior' and 사 (司) meaning 'to manage' or 'official.' Together, they literally describe someone who manages from a higher position. This linguistic structure reinforces the idea that the workplace is a ladder, and the 상사 is the person on the rung above you.
Societal Context: In South Korea, the office is often viewed as an extension of the family or a miniature version of the state. Your 상사 is someone who provides guidance and takes responsibility for your professional growth, but in return, they expect loyalty and diligence. This is why you will often hear the term used in discussions about workplace stress, career advancement, or corporate culture. It is a word that carries the gravity of duty and the complexity of interpersonal dynamics.

직장 생활에서 좋은 상사를 만나는 것은 큰 복입니다.
— Translation: Meeting a good boss in professional life is a great blessing.

You will encounter this word most frequently in 'K-Office' dramas, news articles about labor relations, and everyday conversations among office workers (often referred to as jikjang-in). It is important to note that while 상사 is the categorical term for a superior, you rarely call your boss '상사님' to their face. Instead, you use their specific rank like '부장님' (Department Head) or '팀장님' (Team Leader). 상사 is the word you use when talking *about* them to others or when referring to the concept of a superior in general.

Furthermore, the term 상사 can sometimes be confused with its homonyms. In a military context, '상사' refers to a specific rank, usually translated as Master Sergeant. In a business context, it can also refer to a 'trading company' (e.g., Samsung Sangsa). However, in 90% of daily conversations, it refers to the person who signs off on your vacation days and reviews your performance reports.

Using 상사 correctly requires an understanding of Korean honorifics and sentence structure. Since a superior is higher in social status, the verbs associated with them often take honorific forms like -시-. Even if you are complaining about your boss to a friend, using the word 상사 sets a professional tone for the conversation.

Subject vs. Object: When the 상사 is the subject of the sentence doing an action, you should use the honorific subject marker 께서 instead of 이/가 in formal settings. For example: '상사께서 지시하셨습니다' (The boss gave instructions).
Common Verb Pairings: Typical verbs used with 상사 include 모시다 (to serve/work under), 보고하다 (to report to), and 평가받다 (to be evaluated by). These verbs reflect the active nature of the subordinate-superior relationship.

저는 엄격한 상사 밑에서 일을 배웠어요.
— Translation: I learned how to work under a strict boss.

When describing a boss, adjectives like 까다롭다 (picky/difficult), 인자하다 (benevolent), or 유능하다 (competent) are frequently used. Note that in Korean, you often use the possessive '우리' (our) instead of '제' (my) when talking about your boss to others, as in '우리 상사' (our boss), which emphasizes the collective nature of the workplace.

In complex sentences, 상사 often appears in the context of conflict or resolution. For example, '상사와의 갈등' (conflict with a boss) is a common phrase in HR discussions. Conversely, '상사의 신뢰를 얻다' (to gain a boss's trust) is a common goal for new employees. Understanding these patterns helps you move from A1 basic sentences to B2-level professional communication.

The word 상사 is ubiquitous in South Korean media, reflecting the country's intense work culture. If you watch any Korean drama set in an office (often called 'Office K-Dramas'), you will hear this word within the first ten minutes. It is the standard term used by characters when they are at a bar after work, venting about their day to their friends or colleagues.

In K-Dramas: In shows like Misaeng (Incomplete Life) or My Mister, characters constantly navigate the whims of their 상사. The word is used to highlight the power imbalance and the emotional labor required to maintain a good relationship with one's superiors.
In the News and Media: You will see 상사 in headlines regarding 'Gapjil' (abuse of power by those in superior positions). Phrases like '상사의 괴롭힘' (harassment by a boss) are unfortunately common in reports about workplace reform and new labor laws designed to protect junior employees.

직장인 10명 중 7명이 상사 때문에 스트레스를 받는다고 합니다.
— Translation: It is said that 7 out of 10 office workers suffer stress because of their boss.

Beyond the workplace, you might hear this word in educational settings or organized sports, though '선배' (senior) or '코치' (coach) are more common there. In the military, however, as mentioned before, '상사' is a specific rank. If you are watching a military thriller, a character might be addressed as '김 상사님' (Master Sergeant Kim). This is a completely different usage from the 'office boss' meaning, though both imply a level of authority.

Lastly, in the world of business news, you will see '상사' attached to company names. Historically, many of Korea's largest conglomerates (Chaebols) started as general trading companies, or '종합상사' (jong-hap sang-sa). Companies like Mitsubishi Sangsa or Samsung Sangsa represent this legacy. While this is a noun referring to an entity, the phonetic sound is identical, so context is key to distinguishing between 'my boss' and 'a trading corporation.'

For English speakers, the most common mistake with 상사 is using it as a direct form of address. In English, you might say, 'Hey Boss, do you have a minute?' In Korean, calling someone '상사님' or '상사' to their face is awkward and potentially rude. It feels like you are addressing them by their category rather than their personhood or specific role.

Mistake 1: Direct Address: Instead of saying '상사님, 질문이 있습니다,' you should say '[Rank]님, 질문이 있습니다' (e.g., 부장님, 팀장님). Use 상사 only when referring to the person in the third person or as a general concept.
Mistake 2: Confusing with 'Sunbae': Many learners confuse 상사 with 선배 (Sunbae). A 선배 is someone who started at the company before you but isn't necessarily your boss. A 상사 is someone who is actually above you in the organizational chart. You can have a 선배 who is not your 상사, and a 상사 who (rarely) might even be younger than you in years of service but higher in rank.

❌ 상사님, 밥 먹으러 가요.
✅ 팀장님, 식사하러 가시겠습니까?

Another common error is failing to use honorifics when the 상사 is the subject. Even if you don't like your boss, if you are speaking to someone else in a polite context, you must use -시- in the verb. Failing to do so makes *you* look uncultured or rude, regardless of how you feel about the boss. For example, '상사가 말했어' is only acceptable when talking to very close friends; in most other cases, '상사께서 말씀하셨습니다' is required.

Finally, learners often forget that 상사 is a gender-neutral term. Whether your boss is male or female, they are your 상사. There is no need to add gendered markers unless specifically necessary for the conversation. Focus on the rank and the relationship rather than the gender of the individual.

While 상사 is the most common word for a workplace superior, there are several alternatives that are used depending on the level of formality, the specific relationship, or the industry. Understanding these nuances will make your Korean sound much more natural and sophisticated.

상급자 (Sang-geup-ja): This is a more formal, almost clinical term. It literally means 'higher-level person.' You will see this in employee handbooks, legal documents, or formal HR reports. It is less personal than 상사 and focuses purely on the hierarchy.
윗사람 (Wit-sa-ram): This is a native Korean word (pure Korean, not Hanja-based) that means 'person above.' It is used more broadly than the workplace—it can refer to elders in a family, seniors in school, or anyone older/higher in status. It feels warmer and more traditional than 상사.
선배 (Sunbae): As mentioned before, a 선배 is a senior. While a 상사 is always a 'superior,' a 선배 is a 'mentor' or 'predecessor.' In modern Korean startups, people often prefer calling their superiors '선배님' to create a more collaborative, less rigid atmosphere.

Word Nuance Best Used In...
상사 Standard Daily Office Talk
상급자 Formal/Legal Official Documents
윗사람 Broad/Respectful General Social Context

Word	Nuance	Best Used In...
상사	Standard	Daily Office Talk
상급자	Formal/Legal	Official Documents
윗사람	Broad/Respectful	General Social Context

In some modern environments, you might even hear English-derived terms like 매니저 (Manager) or 팀장 (Team Leader) used almost exclusively. However, even in these 'horizontal' cultures, the concept of the 상사 remains. If someone is evaluating your work, they are your 상사. Conversely, the word for a subordinate is 부하 (bu-ha) or 후배 (hu-bae), though '부하' is becoming less common in modern offices as it sounds a bit like 'underling' or 'henchman.'

How Formal Is It?

Curiosidade

The character '司' (sa) is also used in words like '판사' (judge) and '검사' (prosecutor), emphasizing the role of an official with authority.

Guia de pronúncia

UK /sɑːŋsɑː/

US /sɑŋsɑ/

Even stress on both syllables. Korean is not a stressed-timed language like English.

Rima com

강사 (Gangsa - Instructor) 당사 (Dangsa - The party concerned) 방사 (Bangsa - Radiation/Release) 명사 (Myeongsa - Noun) 행사 (Haengsa - Event) 의사 (Uisa - Doctor) 기사 (Gisa - Driver/Article) 조사 (Josa - Investigation)

Erros comuns

Pronouncing 'sang' like English 'sang' (rhyming with 'bang'). It should be 'ah' like 'father'.
Adding an 'h' sound to the second 's', making it 'sha'. It is a plain 's'.
Making the 'ng' too heavy at the end of the first syllable.
Stressing the first syllable too much.
Pronouncing it as 'sangs-uh' instead of 'sang-sa'.

Nível de dificuldade

Leitura 1/5

Very easy to recognize in text; common Hanja root.

Escrita 2/5

Simple spelling, but requires knowledge of honorific markers.

Expressão oral 2/5

Pronunciation is easy, but usage in social hierarchy is tricky.

Audição 2/5

Must distinguish from 'military rank' and 'trading company' in context.

O que aprender depois

Pré-requisitos

회사 (Company) 일 (Work) 사람 (Person) 선생님 (Teacher) 친구 (Friend)

Aprenda a seguir

부하 (Subordinate) 동료 (Colleague) 승진 (Promotion) 회의 (Meeting) 보고서 (Report)

Avançado

수직적 (Vertical) 권위주의 (Authoritarianism) 조직 문화 (Organizational culture) 인사 고과 (Performance review) 갑질 (Abuse of power)

Gramática essencial

Honorific Subject Marker (께서)

상사께서 말씀하셨습니다.

Honorific Verb Suffix (-시-)

상사가 자료를 보십니다.

Dative Particle for People (에게/한테)

상사에게 보고합니다.

Reason Particle (때문에)

상사 때문에 바빠요.

Causative Verbs (시키다)

상사가 일을 시켰어요.

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Exemplos por nível

우리 상사는 좋은 사람이에요.

Our boss is a good person.

상사는 (subject) + 좋은 사람 (noun phrase) + 이에요 (to be).

상사가 사무실에 있어요.

The boss is in the office.

상사가 (subject) + 사무실에 (location) + 있어요 (to be/exist).

저는 상사가 없어요.

I don't have a boss.

상사가 (object of existence) + 없어요 (to not have/exist).

상사가 커피를 마셔요.

The boss is drinking coffee.

상사가 (subject) + 커피를 (object) + 마셔요 (to drink).

새 상사가 왔어요.

A new boss has come.

새 (adjective - new) + 상사가 (subject) + 왔어요 (past tense of to come).

상사가 저를 불렀어요.

The boss called me.

상사가 (subject) + 저를 (object) + 불렀어요 (past tense of to call).

상사는 바빠요.

The boss is busy.

상사는 (subject) + 바빠요 (to be busy).

우리 상사는 친절해요.

Our boss is kind.

상사는 (subject) + 친절해요 (to be kind).

상사에게 선물을 줬어요.

I gave a gift to my boss.

상사에게 (to the boss) + 선물 (gift) + 줬어요 (gave).

상사와 같이 점심을 먹어요.

I am eating lunch with my boss.

상사와 (with the boss) + 같이 (together).

상사가 저에게 일을 시켰어요.

The boss made me do work.

일을 시키다 means 'to order/make someone do work'.

상사님은 어디에 계세요?

Where is the boss (honorific)?

Using -님 and 계세요 (honorific of 있어요).

상사 때문에 기분이 안 좋아요.

I feel bad because of my boss.

상사 때문에 (because of the boss).

어제 상사를 만났어요.

I met my boss yesterday.

상사를 (object) + 만났어요 (past tense).

상사가 아주 무서워요.

My boss is very scary.

무서워요 (to be scary/scared).

제 상사는 여자예요.

My boss is a woman.

상사 (boss) + 는 + 여자 (woman) + 예요.

상사에게 보고서를 제출했어요.

I submitted the report to my boss.

보고서를 제출하다 (to submit a report).

상사의 지시를 잘 들어야 해요.

You must listen to the boss's instructions carefully.

지시 (instructions) + 를 듣다 (to listen/follow).

직속 상사와 상담을 했어요.

I had a consultation with my direct superior.

직속 상사 (direct superior) + 상담 (consultation).

상사한테 칭찬을 받아서 기뻐요.

I am happy because I received praise from my boss.

칭찬을 받다 (to receive praise).

상사가 회식에 가자고 했어요.

The boss said let's go for a company dinner.

-자고 하다 (indirect quote for 'let's...').

상사의 성격이 정말 까다로워요.

My boss's personality is really picky.

까다롭다 (to be picky/difficult).

상사와 의견 차이가 있어요.

I have a difference of opinion with my boss.

의견 차이 (difference of opinion).

상사에게 휴가를 신청했어요.

I applied for a vacation to my boss.

휴가를 신청하다 (to apply for leave).

상사의 눈치를 보느라 퇴근을 못 해요.

I can't leave work because I'm watching my boss's mood.

눈치를 보다 (to read the room/someone's mood).

유능한 상사는 팀원들을 잘 이끕니다.

A competent boss leads the team members well.

유능하다 (competent) + 이끌다 (to lead).

상사와의 갈등을 해결하고 싶어요.

I want to resolve the conflict with my boss.

갈등 (conflict) + 해결하다 (to resolve).

상사께서 직접 이 일을 맡기셨습니다.

The boss personally entrusted me with this task.

맡기다 (to entrust) + honorific -시-.

상사의 부당한 요구를 거절했어요.

I refused the boss's unfair demand.

부당하다 (unfair) + 요구 (demand) + 거절하다 (refuse).

상사에게 제 아이디어를 제안해 볼까요?

Shall I try suggesting my idea to the boss?

제안하다 (to suggest/propose).

상사의 신뢰를 얻는 것이 중요합니다.

It is important to gain the boss's trust.

신뢰를 얻다 (to gain trust).

상사가 바뀌고 나서 분위기가 좋아졌어요.

The atmosphere improved after the boss changed.

바뀌고 나서 (after changing).

상사의 리더십 스타일이 팀 성과에 큰 영향을 미칩니다.

The boss's leadership style has a great impact on team performance.

영향을 미치다 (to exert influence/impact).

직속 상사와의 원활한 소통이 업무 효율을 높입니다.

Smooth communication with one's direct superior increases work efficiency.

원활하다 (smooth) + 소통 (communication).

상사의 권위주의적인 태도가 사기를 저하시킵니다.

The boss's authoritarian attitude lowers morale.

권위주의적 (authoritarian) + 사기 (morale) + 저하시키다 (to lower).

상사에게 보고할 때는 핵심만 간결하게 전달해야 합니다.

When reporting to a superior, you must convey only the core points concisely.

간결하게 (concisely) + 전달하다 (to convey).

상사의 의중을 파악하는 것이 직장 생활의 기술입니다.

Grasping the boss's hidden intentions is a skill of professional life.

의중 (inner thoughts/intentions) + 파악하다 (to grasp).

상사가 부하 직원의 역량을 끌어올려 주어야 합니다.

A boss should pull up the capabilities of their subordinates.

역량 (capability/competency) + 끌어올리다 (to raise).

상사의 독단적인 결정에 팀원들이 반발하고 있습니다.

Team members are reacting against the boss's arbitrary decision.

독단적 (arbitrary/dogmatic) + 반발하다 (to resist/react against).

상사로부터 정기적인 피드백을 받는 것이 성장에 도움이 됩니다.

Receiving regular feedback from a boss helps with growth.

~로부터 (from) + 피드백 (feedback).

상사와 부하 간의 수직적 관계가 수평적 문화로 변모하고 있습니다.

The vertical relationship between superior and subordinate is transforming into a horizontal culture.

수직적 (vertical) vs 수평적 (horizontal).

상사의 암묵적인 압박이 직원들의 번아웃을 초래할 수 있습니다.

Implicit pressure from a boss can lead to employee burnout.

암묵적 (implicit) + 초래하다 (to cause/bring about).

상사는 조직의 비전을 제시하고 구성원을 독려하는 역할을 수행합니다.

A superior performs the role of presenting the organization's vision and encouraging members.

독려하다 (to encourage/spur on).

상사의 갑질 문제는 단순한 개인의 성향을 넘어 구조적인 문제입니다.

The issue of a boss's abuse of power goes beyond individual personality and is a structural problem.

성향 (disposition/inclination) + 구조적 (structural).

유능한 상사라면 부하의 실수를 성장의 발판으로 삼게 해야 합니다.

A competent boss should make their subordinate's mistakes a stepping stone for growth.

발판으로 삼다 (to use as a stepping stone).

상사의 부재 시 업무 대행 체계를 명확히 구축해야 합니다.

A clear work substitution system must be established in the boss's absence.

부재 (absence) + 대행 (substitution/proxy).

상사와의 신뢰 관계는 단기적인 성과보다 장기적인 협력의 토대가 됩니다.

A relationship of trust with a boss is the foundation for long-term cooperation rather than short-term results.

토대 (foundation/basis).

상사는 부하의 공로를 가로채지 않고 정당하게 보상해야 할 책임이 있습니다.

A superior has the responsibility to reward subordinates fairly without snatching their credit.

공로를 가로채다 (to take credit for someone else's work).

Colocações comuns

직속 상사

상사의 지시

상사에게 보고하다

상사를 모시다

상사의 평가

상사의 눈치를 보다

유능한 상사

엄격한 상사

상사와 상담하다

상사의 신뢰

Frases Comuns

상사 복

— Being lucky with bosses. Used to describe someone who always has good superiors.

너는 정말 상사 복이 많구나!

상사병

— Love-sickness. Note: This is a homonym and NOT related to 'boss'.

그는 짝사랑 때문에 상사병에 걸렸어요.

상사 눈치

— Reading the boss's mood. Essential for surviving Korean office life.

상사 눈치 보느라 화장실도 못 가요.

직속 상사

— Direct superior. The person you report to immediately.

제 직속 상사는 김 팀장님입니다.

상사와의 갈등

— Conflict with a boss. A common topic in workplace counseling.

상사와의 갈등 때문에 회사를 그만두고 싶어요.

상사 뒷담화

— Gossip about the boss. Usually happens during drinks after work.

어제 동료들과 상사 뒷담화를 좀 했어요.

상사 지시 사항

— Boss's instructions/orders. A formal way to list tasks.

오늘 상사 지시 사항을 정리해 주세요.

꼰대 상사

— An old-fashioned, preachy boss. A slang/derogatory term.

우리 팀에는 꼰대 상사가 없어서 좋아요.

상사님

— Respectful way to refer to a boss. Used in polite conversation.

상사님께 여쭤보고 말씀드릴게요.

상사 관리

— Managing your boss. The art of keeping your superior happy.

직장 생활에서 상사 관리도 능력입니다.

Frequentemente confundido com

상사 vs 선배

A senior in experience/time, but not necessarily your superior in power.

상사 vs 사장

Specifically the CEO or owner of a company, whereas '상사' is anyone above you.

상사 vs 상사병

A homonym meaning 'lovesickness'; has nothing to do with work.

Expressões idiomáticas

"상사의 눈 밖에 나다"

— To lose the boss's favor or be disliked by the boss.

실수를 자주 해서 상사의 눈 밖에 났어요.

Casual/Neutral

"상사의 손바닥 안"

— To be in the palm of the boss's hand (being controlled or predictable).

우리는 모두 상사의 손바닥 안에 있어요.

Casual

"상사 비위를 맞추다"

— To butter up the boss or cater to their every whim.

그는 상사 비위를 맞추는 데 선수예요.

Neutral/Critical

"상사의 그림자도 밟지 않는다"

— To show extreme respect (derived from the proverb about teachers).

옛날에는 상사의 그림자도 안 밟았죠.

Literary/Old-fashioned

"상사 머리 꼭대기에 앉다"

— To be much smarter than the boss or manipulate them.

신입 사원이 상사 머리 꼭대기에 앉아 있네.

Slang/Critical

"상사 덕을 보다"

— To benefit from having a good or influential boss.

상사 덕을 봐서 승진이 빨랐어요.

Neutral

"상사 입맛에 맞다"

— To suit the boss's taste or preferences (usually regarding work).

이 보고서가 상사 입맛에 맞을지 모르겠네요.

Casual

"상사 얼굴에 먹칠하다"

— To bring shame or disgrace to the boss's reputation.

제 실수가 상사 얼굴에 먹칠을 했어요.

Neutral

"상사의 오른팔"

— The boss's right-hand man/woman (most trusted assistant).

김 대리는 상사의 오른팔로 통해요.

Neutral

"상사 눈에 들다"

— To catch the boss's eye in a positive way; to be liked.

열심히 해서 상사 눈에 들고 싶어요.

Neutral

Fácil de confundir

상사 vs 상사 (Superior)

Identical spelling to other words.

Refers to a person at work.

상사의 지시를 따르다.

상사 vs 상사 (Master Sergeant)

Identical spelling.

A specific military rank.

김 상사님은 베테랑 군인이다.

상사 vs 상사 (Trading Company)

Identical spelling.

Refers to a business entity.

그는 현대상사에 다닌다.

상사 vs 상사병 (Lovesickness)

Starts with the same characters.

Refers to a psychological state of longing.

상사병은 약도 없다.

상사 vs 상급자 (Superior)

Similar meaning.

More formal and often used in official documentation.

상급자의 확인이 필요합니다.

Padrões de frases

[Person]은/는 좋은 상사예요.

김 선생님은 좋은 상사예요.

상사에게 [Noun]을/를 주다/받다.

상사에게 선물을 받았어요.

상사와 [Noun]에 대해 이야기하다.

상사와 휴가에 대해 이야기했어요.

상사의 눈치를 보느라 [Verb-기] 힘들다.

상사의 눈치를 보느라 퇴근하기 힘들어요.

상사의 리더십이 [Noun]에 미치는 영향.

상사의 리더십이 팀 분위기에 미치는 영향이 커요.

상사와의 갈등을 [Verb-아/어] 해결하다.

상사와의 갈등을 대화로 해결했어요.

상사의 부재를 틈타 [Action].

상사의 부재를 틈타 잠시 휴식을 취했다.

[Noun]은/는 상사의 의중을 반영한 것이다.

이번 결정은 상사의 의중을 반영한 것이다.

Família de palavras

Substantivos

상급자 (Superior)

상급 (Higher grade/rank)

상전 (Master - archaic/sarcastic)

Verbos

상사하다 (To trade - rare/business context)

상사하다 (To long for - rare/poetic)

Adjetivos

상사로운 (Auspicious - unrelated but similar sound)

Relacionado

부하 (Subordinate)

동료 (Colleague)

직장 (Workplace)

계급 (Rank)

승진 (Promotion)

Cadastre-se grátis para ver todos os exemplos

Como usar

frequency

Extremely high in work-related contexts.

Erros comuns

Calling the boss '상사님' to their face. → Calling them by rank, e.g., '부장님' (Department Head).
Using the categorical term as a name is impersonal and awkward in Korean culture.
Using '내 상사' instead of '우리 상사'. → '우리 상사' (Our boss).
Korean uses the collective 'our' for shared social groups like family and workplace.
Failing to use honorific verbs with '상사'. → Using '-시-' (e.g., 상사가 가십니다).
Because a boss is a superior, you must use polite/honorific verb forms even when they aren't present.
Confusing '상사' with '선배'. → Use '상사' for hierarchy, '선배' for seniority/mentorship.
A senior colleague (sunbae) is not always your boss (sangsa).
Using '부하' to introduce your team to others. → Using '팀원' (team member) or '동료' (colleague).
'부하' can sound like 'henchman' or 'underling' and is considered slightly outdated/harsh in modern offices.

Dicas

Respect the Hierarchy

Always use honorifics when the subject of your sentence is your '상사', even if they aren't in the room. This shows your own professionalism and respect for social norms.

Avoid Direct Address

Remember that '상사' is a category, not a title. Use ranks like '팀장님' or '과장님' when speaking to them directly to avoid sounding rude or robotic.

The Hoesik Rule

At company dinners, pay attention to your '상사'. If they pour you a drink, receive it with two hands. This is a crucial part of building a good relationship.

Use '께서'

In formal writing, use the particle '께서' instead of '이/가' after '상사'. For example: '상사께서 지시하셨습니다.' This makes your Korean sound very advanced.

Know the Homonyms

Be aware that '상사' can mean 'trading company' or 'military rank'. Use the context of the conversation (office vs. army vs. business news) to tell them apart.

Reporting Style

When reporting to a '상사', be concise and clear. Korean bosses often value 'Dugalsik' (putting the main point first) in professional communications.

Building Trust

Gaining '상사의 신뢰' (boss's trust) is often about consistency and reliability rather than just one-time big achievements in a Korean context.

Watch K-Office Dramas

Watching shows like 'Misaeng' will help you hear how '상사' is used in various emotional contexts, from deep respect to intense frustration.

Formal Documents

In official company emails or reports, '상급자' is often preferred over '상사' as it sounds more objective and professional.

Greeting

When your '상사' enters the room, it is common to stand up or bow slightly. This physical acknowledgment of their status is tied to the word '상사'.

Memorize

Mnemônico

Think of a 'SANG' (song) that you sing 'SA' (softly) when your boss is around so they don't get annoyed.

Associação visual

Imagine a ladder with a person sitting on the top rung looking down at a desk. That person is the 'Sangsa'.

Word Web

Office Manager Promotion Hierarchy Report Salary Team Meeting

Desafio

Try to use '상사' in a sentence describing a character from your favorite office-themed TV show (like The Office or Brooklyn Nine-Nine).

Origem da palavra

Derived from Sino-Korean Hanja characters. '上' (sang) meaning 'up' or 'above' and '司' (sa) meaning 'to manage' or 'officer'.

Significado original: A high-ranking official who manages or oversees others.

Sino-Korean (Hanja)

Contexto cultural

Be careful when using '부하' (subordinate) to describe people working under you; it can sound belittling. Use '팀원' (team member) instead.

In the West, 'boss' can be casual. In Korea, '상사' is strictly formal and hierarchical. Don't use it as a nickname.

Misaeng (Drama) - A realistic portrayal of the struggle with various types of 상사. Kkondae Intern (Drama) - Explores the 'Kkondae' (preachy boss) phenomenon. Chief Kim (Drama) - A comedic look at office hierarchy.

Pratique na vida real

Contextos reais

Office venting (Drinking session)

상사 때문에 스트레스 받아.
우리 상사는 말이 너무 많아.
상사가 또 야근 시켰어.
상사 뒷담화 좀 하자.

Professional Introduction

제 직속 상사를 소개해 드릴게요.
상사분께 허락을 받아야 합니다.
상사님과 상의해 보겠습니다.
훌륭한 상사를 만났습니다.

Job Interview

어떤 상사와 일하고 싶습니까?
상사와의 갈등을 어떻게 해결하나요?
상사의 지시가 부당하다면 어쩌겠습니까?
존경하는 상사가 있습니까?

Performance Review

상사의 피드백이 궁금합니다.
상사로부터 좋은 평가를 받았습니다.
상사의 기대에 부응하겠습니다.
상사와 면담이 있습니다.

Military Context

김 상사님, 보고 드립니다.
상사 계급으로 진급했습니다.
상사의 명령을 따르십시오.
저분은 행정보급상사입니다.

Iniciadores de conversa

"당신의 상사는 어떤 스타일인가요? (What style is your boss?)"

"상사와 갈등이 생기면 어떻게 해결하세요? (How do you resolve conflicts with your boss?)"

"좋은 상사의 조건은 무엇이라고 생각하세요? (What do you think are the conditions of a good boss?)"

"상사에게 가장 듣고 싶은 칭찬은 뭐예요? (What is the praise you most want to hear from your boss?)"

"만약 당신이 상사가 된다면 어떤 리더가 되고 싶나요? (If you became a boss, what kind of leader would you want to be?)"

Temas para diário

오늘 상사와의 관계에서 느낀 점을 써 보세요. (Write about what you felt today regarding your relationship with your boss.)

내가 꿈꾸는 이상적인 상사의 모습에 대해 서술하세요. (Describe the image of your ideal boss.)

상사에게 받은 피드백 중 가장 기억에 남는 것은 무엇인가요? (What is the most memorable feedback you received from a boss?)

상사 때문에 힘들었던 경험과 그것을 극복한 방법을 적어 보세요. (Write about a difficult experience with a boss and how you overcame it.)

한국의 상사-부하 문화에 대해 자신의 생각을 정리해 보세요. (Organize your thoughts on the Korean superior-subordinate culture.)

Perguntas frequentes

10 perguntas

No, it is considered impolite. You should use their specific rank with the suffix '-nim', such as 'Team-jang-nim' or 'Bu-jang-nim'. 'Sangsa' is a word you use when talking *about* your boss to others.

A 'Sunbae' is a senior who started before you, while a 'Sangsa' is your actual boss in the hierarchy. You can have a 'Sunbae' who is your 'Sangsa', but they are not always the same person.

Yes, '상사' refers to both male and female superiors. Korean titles usually don't change based on gender.

Korean culture is collectivist. Using 'Uri' emphasizes the group (the company or team) rather than the individual relationship.

Yes, but in the military, it refers to a specific rank (Master Sergeant), which is a high-level non-commissioned officer.

It means 'direct superior'—the person you report to directly in the organizational chart.

'Gapjil' refers to the abuse of power by someone in a superior position (the 'Gap') against someone in a subordinate position (the 'Eul'). It is a major social issue in Korea.

No, for teachers you use '선생님' (Seonsaengnim) or '교수님' (Gyosunim). '상사' is strictly for professional workplace hierarchies.

The most common opposite is '부하' (subordinate) or '부하 직원' (subordinate employee).

You can say '좋은 상사' (Joeun Sangsa) or '인자한 상사' (In-ja-han Sangsa - benevolent boss).

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