잠재적
잠재적 30秒了解
- Potential or latent; describes something hidden that could emerge later.
- Commonly used in business (potential customers) and psychology (latent talent).
- Formal register; often requires the particle '-인' when modifying nouns.
- Rooted in Hanja meaning 'submerged existence,' emphasizing hidden capacity.
The Korean word 잠재적 (jamjaejeok) is a sophisticated adjective that corresponds to the English terms 'potential' or 'latent.' Rooted in Hanja (Sino-Korean characters), it combines 潛 (잠 - to hide or submerge), 在 (재 - to exist), and 的 (적 - a suffix that turns a noun into an adjective). Therefore, its literal meaning is 'existing in a submerged or hidden state.' This word is essential for B2-level learners because it moves beyond simple descriptions of the present and allows you to discuss possibilities, risks, and hidden talents that are not yet visible but are likely to emerge in the future.
- Core Concept
- It describes something that has not yet manifested or become actual but possesses the inherent capacity to do so. It is frequently used in professional, academic, and psychological contexts.
In daily life, you might not use '잠재적' to talk about what you want for dinner, but you will certainly hear it in news reports about the economy, in business meetings discussing 'potential customers' (잠재적 고객), or in medical discussions regarding 'latent risks' (잠재적 위험). It carries a nuance of objectivity and analytical observation. While '가능성' (possibility) refers to the chance of something happening, '잠재적' focuses on the hidden quality or nature of the subject itself.
이 프로젝트는 잠재적인 위험 요소가 많습니다. (This project has many potential risk factors.)
Psychologically, the word is often paired with '능력' (ability) or '의식' (consciousness). '잠재적 능력' refers to untapped potential or talent that a student or employee might have. Unlike '실제적' (actual) which describes what is currently happening, '잠재적' looks into the depth of a person or a situation. It is the 'iceberg' word—referring to the 90% of the mass that is currently underwater but very much present and capable of impacting the world above the surface.
- Usage in Business
- Marketing teams spend hours identifying '잠재적 고객' (potential customers) who haven't bought the product yet but whose behavior suggests they might in the future.
우리는 잠재적인 시장 가치를 분석해야 합니다. (We need to analyze the potential market value.)
Furthermore, in social issues, '잠재적' is often used to describe groups or situations that could lead to conflict. For example, '잠재적 범죄자' (potential criminal) is a controversial term used in legal or sociological debates. The word is powerful because it attributes a future state to a present entity, making it a vital tool for planning, forecasting, and deep analysis in the Korean language.
Using 잠재적 correctly requires understanding its grammatical role as a determiner or an adjective. In Korean, the suffix '-적' allows the word to function as a noun-modifier when followed by the particle '-인' (잠재적인) or sometimes directly before a noun in compound-like structures. To master its usage, you should practice placing it before abstract nouns that represent things that can grow, change, or manifest.
- Sentence Structure
- [Noun] + 은/는 + 잠재적인 + [Result Noun] + 이다/가 있다. (Something has a potential [result].)
Consider the difference between saying 'He is smart' and 'He has potential intelligence.' The latter suggests that while he might not be performing well now, the capacity is there. In Korean, this would be '그는 잠재적인 능력이 뛰어납니다.' Notice how '잠재적' provides a layer of depth to the description. It is not just about the surface level; it is about what lies beneath.
모든 아이들은 잠재적인 천재성을 가지고 태어납니다. (Every child is born with potential genius.)
In a negative context, '잠재적' is used to warn about future problems. If a bridge has small cracks, a Korean engineer would say it has '잠재적 붕괴 위험' (potential collapse risk). This usage is very common in safety manuals and news reports. It allows for a proactive stance—addressing the '잠재적' issue before it becomes an '실제적' (actual) disaster.
- Common Pairings
- 잠재적 + 능력 (Ability), 잠재적 + 위험 (Risk), 잠재적 + 가치 (Value), 잠재적 + 경쟁자 (Competitor).
새로운 기술의 잠재적 영향력을 과소평가해서는 안 됩니다. (We must not underestimate the potential impact of new technology.)
Finally, when discussing psychology, you might use '잠재적 의식' (subconscious/latent consciousness). This refers to thoughts and feelings that are present but not currently in the active mind. By using '잠재적,' you are indicating that these elements are 'submerged' (잠) and 'existing' (재), waiting for a trigger to surface.
You will encounter 잠재적 most frequently in formal environments. If you are watching a Korean news broadcast like KBS or MBC, listen for it during the economic or international relations segments. News anchors often discuss the '잠재적 성장률' (potential growth rate) of the country or '잠재적 갈등' (potential conflict) between nations. It is a staple of analytical journalism.
- Corporate Meetings
- In a Korean office, a manager might ask, '우리의 잠재적 경쟁자는 누구입니까?' (Who are our potential competitors?). This shows they are thinking ahead, looking for threats that aren't yet obvious.
In educational settings, teachers use this word to encourage students. A teacher might say to a parent, '학생의 잠재력이 아주 큽니다' (The student's potential is very great). Here, '잠재력' (the noun form) is more common, but '잠재적' is used when describing the student's '잠재적 소질' (potential talent). It conveys a sense of hope and future possibility.
이 땅은 잠재적인 개발 가치가 매우 높습니다. (This land has very high potential development value.)
Interestingly, you also hear this word in Korean dramas (K-Dramas), especially those involving legal battles or medical mysteries. A doctor might speak of a '잠재적 질병' (latent disease) that hasn't shown symptoms yet. A lawyer might discuss '잠재적 증거' (potential evidence) that needs to be uncovered. In these high-stakes stories, the word adds a layer of tension—something is hidden and could change everything once it comes to light.
- Scientific Research
- Researchers use '잠재적' to describe hypotheses or effects that are theoretically possible based on current data but not yet empirically proven in every case.
그 후보자는 잠재적인 리더십을 보여주었습니다. (That candidate showed potential leadership.)
In summary, '잠재적' is the word of the strategist, the analyst, and the visionary. Whether it is a marketing report, a medical diagnosis, or a teacher's evaluation, this word is used to bridge the gap between what is and what could be.
One of the most common mistakes learners make with 잠재적 is confusing it with '가능한' (possible). While they are related, '가능한' refers to the feasibility of an action (e.g., 'Is it possible to go?'), whereas '잠재적' refers to an inherent quality that hasn't surfaced yet. You wouldn't say '잠재적인 시간' (potential time) to mean 'available time'; you would use '가능한 시간.'
- Mistake 1: Overusing it for 'Possible'
- Incorrect: 내일 잠재적인 회의가 있어요. (I have a potential meeting tomorrow.)
Correct: 내일 회의가 생길 수도 있어요. (A meeting might happen tomorrow.)
Reason: '잠재적' is for qualities or states, not just scheduled events.
Another mistake is forgetting the particle '인' when using it as an adjective in a sentence. While '잠재적 고객' is a common compound noun, in a more descriptive sentence like 'The risk is potential,' you must use '잠재적이다' or '잠재적인.' Using just '잠재적' as a standalone adjective at the end of a sentence is grammatically incomplete in Korean.
이 문제는 아직 잠재적인 상태입니다. (This problem is still in a potential state.)
Learners also sometimes confuse '잠재적' with '간접적' (indirect). While a potential effect might be indirect, '간접적' focuses on the path of influence, while '잠재적' focuses on the state of existence. If a medicine causes a hidden side effect, it is '잠재적 부작용.' If it affects you through someone else, it is '간접적 영향.'
- Mistake 2: Register Mismatch
- Avoid using '잠재적' in very casual settings like '잠재적인 떡볶이 맛' (Potential tteokbokki taste). It sounds overly robotic and strange. Use '숨은 맛' (hidden taste) instead.
그의 잠재적인 재능이 드디어 발휘되었습니다. (His potential talent was finally displayed.)
Lastly, be careful with the word '잠재우다.' Although it starts with the same sounds, it means 'to put to sleep' or 'to calm down' (from 자다). It is not related to the 'latent' meaning of '잠재적.' Mixing these up can lead to very confusing sentences!
To truly master 잠재적, you should know how it compares to its synonyms and near-synonyms. Depending on the context, you might want to use a word that is more specific or less formal. The most common alternatives are '가능성 있는' (possible), '내재된' (inherent), and '숨겨진' (hidden).
- 잠재적 vs. 내재적 (Inherent)
- '잠재적' implies something that might come out in the future. '내재적' (naejaejeok) implies something that is already inside and part of the essence, whether it comes out or not. Example: '잠재적 위험' (a risk that might happen) vs. '내재적 가치' (intrinsic value that is always there).
If you are speaking casually, '숨겨진' (sumgyeo-jin) is a great alternative. It literally means 'hidden.' Instead of saying '잠재적인 능력,' you could say '숨겨진 능력' (hidden talent). This sounds more natural when talking to friends or in a non-academic setting.
그 가수는 잠재적인 스타성이 있습니다. (That singer has potential star quality.)
In business, you might hear '유망한' (yumang-han), which means 'promising.' While '잠재적 고객' is just a potential customer, a '유망한 고객' is a customer who shows great promise and is likely to spend a lot of money. '유망한' is more positive and active than the neutral '잠재적.'
- Synonym Table
- 1. 가망 있는: Likely (usually for recovery or success).
2. 미래의: Future (e.g., 미래의 고객).
3. 숨은: Hidden (e.g., 숨은 보석 - hidden gem).
4. 가상적: Hypothetical (sometimes confused, but refers to imaginary scenarios).
그것은 잠재적인 사회적 문제입니다. (That is a potential social problem.)
In conclusion, use '잠재적' for formal analysis and future-looking statements, '내재적' for inherent qualities, and '숨겨진' for casual contexts. Understanding these nuances will make your Korean sound much more precise and sophisticated.
How Formal Is It?
趣味小知识
The character 潛 (잠) is the same one used in '잠수함' (jamsuhan - submarine). So, 'potential' in Korean literally shares a root with 'submarine'—both are things that exist underwater!
发音指南
- Pronouncing 'ae' (재) as 'ay' (like in 'play'). It should be shorter, like 'e' in 'met'.
- Over-releasing the final 'k' in 'jeok'. It should be a 'stop' sound.
- Confusing 'jam' (잠) with 'cham' (참). 'Jam' is voiced and softer.
- Pronouncing 'jeok' (적) as 'jock'. The vowel is 'eo' (ʌ), not 'o'.
- Adding an extra vowel sound at the end (e.g., 'jeo-keu').
难度评级
Common in newspapers and books, but requires knowledge of Hanja-based suffixes.
Requires correct placement and use of the '-인' particle.
Used in professional settings; might sound too formal for everyday chat.
Clear pronunciation, but often surrounded by other difficult formal words.
接下来学什么
前置知识
接下来学习
高级
需要掌握的语法
The '-적' Suffix
Noun + 적 = Adjective (e.g., 과학 + 적 = 과학적 - scientific).
The '-인' Particle for Adjectives
잠재적 + 인 + Noun (e.g., 잠재적인 위험).
Noun Compounds
In technical terms, drop '-인' (e.g., 잠재적 고객).
Adverbial '-으로'
잠재적 + 으로 = 잠재적으로 (potentially).
The '-이다' Ending
이것은 잠재적이다 (This is potential).
按水平分级的例句
그는 잠재적 친구입니다.
He is a potential friend.
잠재적 (adjective) modifying 친구 (noun).
잠재적 위험이 있어요.
There is a potential danger.
잠재적 used to describe a possibility of danger.
이것은 잠재적 선물입니다.
This is a potential gift.
Simple noun modification.
그녀는 잠재적 가수예요.
She is a potential singer.
Using potential to describe future roles.
잠재적 고객을 찾아요.
Looking for potential customers.
Common business usage.
잠재적 힘이 커요.
The potential power is big.
Describing inherent capacity.
잠재적 문제가 있나요?
Are there any potential problems?
Question form.
잠재적 승리입니다.
It is a potential victory.
Describing a near-certain future state.
잠재적 고객에게 편지를 보내요.
I send letters to potential customers.
Dative particle '에게' used with potential customers.
이 계획은 잠재적 위험이 많아요.
This plan has many potential risks.
Using '많다' to describe quantity of risks.
그 아이는 잠재적 재능이 있어요.
That child has potential talent.
Describing talent with '있다'.
잠재적 경쟁자를 조심하세요.
Be careful of potential competitors.
Imperative form '하세요'.
잠재적인 가치를 확인해 보세요.
Try checking the potential value.
Using '잠재적인' with the particle '인'.
그곳은 잠재적 관광지입니다.
That place is a potential tourist spot.
Describing a place's future state.
잠재적 에너지를 사용합시다.
Let's use potential energy.
Suggestive form '합시다'.
잠재적 손실을 줄여야 해요.
We must reduce potential losses.
Obligation form '해야 해요'.
잠재적 고객의 니즈를 파악하는 것이 중요합니다.
It is important to understand the needs of potential customers.
Gerund form '하는 것' used as a subject.
이 약은 잠재적 부작용이 있을 수 있습니다.
This medicine may have potential side effects.
Probability form 'ㄹ 수 있다'.
우리는 잠재적 위협에 대비해야 합니다.
We must prepare for potential threats.
Preparation verb '대비하다'.
그의 잠재적 능력이 이번 프로젝트에서 빛을 발했습니다.
His potential ability shone in this project.
Idiomatic expression '빛을 발하다' (to shine/manifest).
잠재적인 시장을 개척하는 것은 어렵습니다.
Developing a potential market is difficult.
Verb '개척하다' (to pioneer/develop).
모든 선택에는 잠재적 비용이 따릅니다.
Every choice comes with potential costs.
Verb '따르다' (to follow/accompany).
잠재적 범죄 예방을 위해 노력하고 있습니다.
We are working to prevent potential crimes.
Purpose form '위해'.
잠재적인 갈등 요소를 미리 해결합시다.
Let's resolve potential conflict factors in advance.
Adverb '미리' (in advance).
기업은 잠재적 고객 데이터를 수집하여 마케팅에 활용합니다.
Companies collect potential customer data and utilize it for marketing.
Connecting clauses with '하여'.
이 기술의 잠재적 파급력은 상상을 초월합니다.
The potential impact of this technology is beyond imagination.
Expression '상상을 초월하다' (to exceed imagination).
잠재적인 리스크를 관리하는 능력이 리더의 핵심입니다.
The ability to manage potential risks is a leader's core trait.
Noun phrase '관리하는 능력' (ability to manage).
그 후보는 잠재적 지지층이 두텁습니다.
That candidate has a thick base of potential supporters.
Adjective '두텁다' (thick/solid) used for support bases.
잠재적 교육과정은 학생들의 가치관 형성에 큰 영향을 미칩니다.
The hidden curriculum significantly influences the formation of students' values.
Expression '영향을 미치다' (to exert influence).
잠재적 수요를 예측하는 것이 사업의 성패를 결정합니다.
Predicting potential demand determines the success or failure of a business.
Noun '성패' (success or failure).
그의 행동은 잠재적 위험 신호로 간주될 수 있습니다.
His behavior can be regarded as a potential warning sign.
Passive form '간주될 수 있다' (can be regarded as).
잠재적인 평화 협정의 가능성이 열려 있습니다.
The possibility of a potential peace treaty is open.
Expression '가능성이 열려 있다' (possibility is open).
인간의 잠재적 의식 속에는 수많은 공포와 욕망이 숨겨져 있습니다.
In the human subconscious, numerous fears and desires are hidden.
Locative particle '속에는' (inside).
잠재적 경쟁 관계에 있는 두 기업이 갑자기 합병을 발표했습니다.
Two companies in a potential competitive relationship suddenly announced a merger.
Complex noun phrase '경쟁 관계에 있는'.
이 정책은 잠재적 실업자 문제를 해결하기 위한 고육지책입니다.
This policy is a desperate measure to solve the problem of the potentially unemployed.
Idiom '고육지책' (desperate measure).
잠재적 에너지의 변환 과정을 정밀하게 측정해야 합니다.
The conversion process of potential energy must be precisely measured.
Adverb '정밀하게' (precisely).
문화적 차이는 잠재적 오해의 소지가 될 수 있습니다.
Cultural differences can become a source of potential misunderstanding.
Expression '소지가 되다' (to have the potential/source).
잠재적 성장 동력을 확보하는 것이 국가적 과제입니다.
Securing potential growth engines is a national task.
Noun phrase '성장 동력' (growth engine).
그의 발언은 잠재적 반대 세력을 결집시키는 결과를 초래했습니다.
His remarks resulted in rallying the potential opposition forces.
Verb '초래하다' (to cause/bring about).
잠재적 자아를 실현하기 위해 끊임없이 노력해야 합니다.
One must constantly strive to realize their potential self.
Verb '실현하다' (to realize/actualize).
잠재적 담론의 기저에 깔린 이데올로기를 분석하는 작업은 매우 복잡합니다.
The task of analyzing the ideology underlying the latent discourse is very complex.
Expression '기저에 깔린' (underlying).
현실태로 이행하기 전의 잠재태는 형이상학적 탐구의 대상입니다.
Potentiality before transitioning into actuality is an object of metaphysical inquiry.
Specialized philosophical terms '현실태' and '잠재태'.
잠재적 위기는 표면적인 안정 속에서 더욱 치명적으로 자라납니다.
Potential crises grow more fatally amidst superficial stability.
Adverb '치명적으로' (fatally).
언어의 잠재적 의미 체계는 화자의 의도와 상관없이 작동할 때가 있습니다.
The potential semantic system of language sometimes operates regardless of the speaker's intention.
Expression '상관없이' (regardless of).
잠재적 수혜자와 피해자를 엄격히 구분하는 것은 정책 입안의 기본입니다.
Strictly distinguishing between potential beneficiaries and victims is the basis of policy making.
Nouns '수혜자' (beneficiary) and '피해자' (victim).
잠재적 인플레이션 압력을 억제하기 위해 금리 인상이 단행되었습니다.
Interest rate hikes were implemented to suppress potential inflationary pressure.
Verb '단행되다' (to be carried out/implemented).
역사적 사건의 잠재적 영향력은 수세기가 지난 후에야 비로소 드러나기도 합니다.
The potential influence of historical events sometimes only becomes apparent after centuries have passed.
Expression '비로소' (at last/finally).
잠재적 천재성은 적절한 환경이 조성될 때만 현실화될 수 있습니다.
Potential genius can only be actualized when an appropriate environment is created.
Verb '현실화되다' (to be actualized).
常见搭配
常用短语
— To bring out someone's potential power.
선생님은 학생의 잠재력을 끌어내 주셨다.
— A problem that hasn't surfaced yet but exists.
우리는 잠재적인 문제점을 찾아야 합니다.
— Elements that pose a potential threat.
보안팀은 잠재적 위협 요소를 감시합니다.
— A market that has not been tapped yet.
아프리카는 거대한 잠재적 시장입니다.
— A person who has the potential to commit a crime.
누구도 잠재적 범죄자로 취급받아서는 안 된다.
— Potential efficacy of a drug or method.
이 약의 잠재적 효능을 연구 중입니다.
— Something that could become a valuable asset.
지식은 가장 큰 잠재적 자산입니다.
— A hidden defect in a product or system.
잠재적 결함 때문에 리콜이 결정되었습니다.
— Someone who might support a cause or person.
우리는 잠재적 지지자들을 설득해야 합니다.
— A person or company that could become a partner.
그는 우리의 가장 강력한 잠재적 파트너입니다.
容易混淆的词
Refers to feasibility (can do), while '잠재적' refers to inherent latency (hidden capacity).
Refers to what is already inside as an essence, while '잠재적' focuses on what might come out later.
Refers to what is imaginary or hypothetical, while '잠재적' refers to real but hidden potential.
习语与表达
— The tip of the iceberg; refers to a small visible part of a much larger potential problem.
이 비리는 빙산의 일각일 뿐이며 잠재적 비리가 더 많습니다.
Formal— To provoke a sleeping lion; to trigger a dangerous potential power.
그의 잠재적 분노를 건드리는 것은 잠자는 사자의 코털을 건드리는 격이다.
Neutral— A pearl buried in the soil; a hidden gem with great potential.
그는 아직 알려지지 않았지만 흙 속에 묻힌 진주 같은 잠재적 스타다.
Literary— Better to be a snake's head than a dragon's tail; choosing a smaller role with more potential for leadership.
잠재적 리더십을 발휘하기 위해 그는 작은 팀을 선택했다.
Neutral— A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step; realizing potential through action.
잠재적 성공을 위해 오늘부터 한 걸음씩 나아갑시다.
Common— A tree that will grow well is recognizable from its cotyledon; potential is visible early on.
그 아이의 잠재적 재능을 보니 될성부른 나무는 떡잎부터 알아본다는 말이 맞다.
Common— An awl in a pocket; talent/potential will eventually show itself.
그의 잠재적 실력은 주머니 속의 송곳처럼 드러나기 마련이다.
Literary— Pouring water into a bottomless pot; a situation with no potential for success.
이 사업은 잠재적 가치가 없어 밑 빠진 독에 물 붓기다.
Common— Sweetness comes after bitterness; potential reward after hard work.
지금의 고생은 잠재적 행복을 위한 고진감래의 과정이다.
Formal/Hanja— The student surpasses the teacher; a student realizing their potential beyond their mentor.
그의 잠재적 능력이 스승을 뛰어넘어 청출어람을 실현했다.
Formal/Hanja容易混淆
Both share the same root '잠재'.
'잠재적' is an adjective (potential), '잠재력' is a noun (potential power/ability).
그는 잠재력이 크다 (He has great potential).
Starts with the same sound.
Means 'to put to sleep' or 'to calm down.' Totally different root.
아기를 잠재우다 (Put the baby to sleep).
Both involve future possibility.
'가망' is usually used for hope of recovery or success (e.g., recovery from illness).
회복할 가망이 있다.
Both relate to talent.
'소질' is a specific aptitude for a certain field (e.g., music). '잠재적' is a general state of latency.
음악적 소질이 있다.
Both describe things not clearly seen.
'간접적' means indirect (through something else). '잠재적' means hidden within.
간접적인 영향.
句型
잠재적 [Noun]이에요.
잠재적 친구예요.
잠재적 [Noun]이/가 있어요.
잠재적 위험이 있어요.
잠재적인 [Noun]을/를 [Verb].
잠재적인 문제를 해결해요.
[Noun]은/는 잠재적인 [Noun]이다.
이것은 잠재적인 성공의 기회이다.
잠재적 [Noun]의 기저에는 [Noun]이/가 있다.
잠재적 갈등의 기저에는 오해가 있다.
잠재적 [Noun]을/를 현실화하는 것이 [Noun]이다.
잠재적 천재성을 현실화하는 것이 교육의 목표이다.
잠재적으로 [Verb]할 수 있다.
잠재적으로 위험할 수 있다.
잠재적 [Noun]에 대비하다.
잠재적 위협에 대비하다.
词族
名词
动词
形容词
相关
如何使用
Common in professional/academic contexts; rare in casual slang.
-
잠재적은 고객
→
잠재적 고객 / 잠재적인 고객
You don't use '은' to modify a noun with '-적'. Use '인' or nothing in compound terms.
-
그는 잠재적이에요.
→
그는 잠재력이 있어요.
Calling a person 'potential' is weird. Say they 'have potential' (잠재력이 있다).
-
잠재적인 시간
→
가능한 시간
'잠재적' is for latent qualities, not availability of time.
-
잠재적을 발휘하다
→
잠재력을 발휘하다
You exert 'potential power' (noun), not 'potential' (adjective).
-
잠재우는 위험
→
잠재적 위험
'잠재우다' means to put to sleep. It is not the adjective for potential.
小贴士
Business Pro Tip
When writing a business plan in Korean, use '잠재적 시장' to impress investors with your analytical vocabulary.
Adjective Suffix
Remember that '-적' words are very flexible. They can be nouns, adjectives (with -인), or adverbs (with -으로).
Iceberg Rule
Always associate '잠재적' with an iceberg. It helps you remember that the most important part is hidden below the surface.
Polite Praise
If you want to encourage someone without being too direct, say they have '잠재력' (potential). It sounds very supportive.
News Context
When you hear '잠재적' on the news, pay attention to the word right after it. That is the 'hidden' thing they are worried about.
Essay Structure
Use '잠재적' to transition from current facts to future possibilities in your Korean essays.
Formal Clues
The presence of '잠재적' is a strong indicator that the speaker is using a high-level, formal register.
Education Value
Understand that 'potential' is a huge deal in Korea. Talking about it shows you understand Korean societal values.
Submarine Link
Link '잠' to '잠수함' (submarine). Both are things that exist but are hidden under the surface.
Possibility vs Potential
Use '가능성' for the 'chance' of an event, and '잠재적' for the 'hidden state' of a thing.
记住它
记忆技巧
Think of a 'Submarine' (잠수함). A submarine is '잠재적' because it exists (재) but is submerged (잠) out of sight until it needs to surface.
视觉联想
An iceberg. The huge part under the water is the '잠재적' (potential) mass, while the small tip is the '실제적' (actual) part.
Word Web
挑战
Try to find three things in your room that have '잠재적' value (e.g., an unread book, a gym membership you haven't used yet, or a blank notebook).
词源
From the Hanja 潛 (잠) meaning 'to submerge' and 在 (재) meaning 'to exist'. The suffix 的 (적) is a modern addition used to create adjectives from nouns, common in East Asian languages influenced by Western grammar.
原始含义: To exist while submerged; a state of being present but not visible.
Sino-Korean (Hanja-based)文化背景
Be careful when using '잠재적 범죄자' (potential criminal). It is a sensitive term often used in social justice debates and can be offensive if applied to specific groups without evidence.
While English speakers use 'potential' very broadly, '잠재적' is slightly more formal and analytical in Korean. In casual English, you might say 'He's a potential boyfriend,' but in Korean, '잠재적 남자친구' sounds like a police report or a scientific study.
在生活中练习
真实语境
Business/Marketing
- 잠재적 고객 분석
- 잠재적 시장 점유율
- 잠재적 수익성
- 잠재적 파트너십
Psychology/Education
- 잠재적 능력 개발
- 잠재적 의식 탐구
- 잠재적 소질
- 잠재적 천재성
Risk Management
- 잠재적 위험 요소
- 잠재적 부작용
- 잠재적 결함
- 잠재적 위협
Economics
- 잠재적 성장률
- 잠재적 인플레이션
- 잠재적 수요
- 잠재적 자산
Daily Life (Formal)
- 잠재적 문제
- 잠재적 갈등
- 잠재적 가치
- 잠재적 영향력
对话开场白
"당신의 잠재적 능력은 무엇이라고 생각하세요? (What do you think is your potential ability?)"
"이 사업 아이템의 잠재적 시장은 어디일까요? (Where would be the potential market for this business item?)"
"우리가 놓치고 있는 잠재적 위험이 있을까요? (Are there any potential risks we are missing?)"
"이 기술이 미래에 가져올 잠재적 영향은 무엇일까요? (What is the potential impact this technology will bring in the future?)"
"당신이 생각하는 가장 큰 잠재적 자산은 무엇입니까? (What is the biggest potential asset you think you have?)"
日记主题
내가 아직 발휘하지 못한 잠재적 능력에 대해 써보세요. (Write about your potential abilities that you haven't displayed yet.)
우리 사회가 직면한 가장 큰 잠재적 위협은 무엇입니까? (What is the biggest potential threat our society faces?)
5년 뒤 나의 잠재적 모습은 어떠할지 상상해 보세요. (Imagine what your potential self will look like in 5 years.)
잠재적 고객을 설득하기 위한 나만의 전략을 세워보세요. (Create your own strategy to persuade potential customers.)
최근에 발견한 나의 잠재적 취미나 소질이 있나요? (Is there a potential hobby or talent of yours that you discovered recently?)
常见问题
10 个问题Yes, but usually in a formal or professional context, like '잠재적 고객' (potential customer) or '잠재적 경쟁자' (potential competitor). Using it for friends or family is rare and sounds like business talk.
'잠재력' is a noun meaning 'potential power' or 'talent.' '잠재적' is an adjective meaning 'potential' or 'latent.' You use '잠재적' to describe a noun (e.g., 잠재적 위험).
Only if you mean 'possible' in the sense of 'hidden but capable of emerging.' If you mean 'I might go to the store,' use '갈 수도 있다' or '가능하다,' not '잠재적'.
Not really. It sounds like you are analyzing him scientifically. It's better to say '호감 있는 사람' or '잘 될 수도 있는 사람'.
You use '잠재적으로' (jamjaejeok-euro). For example: '이것은 잠재적으로 위험합니다' (This is potentially dangerous).
Use '인' when '잠재적' is modifying a noun in a descriptive sentence (e.g., 잠재적인 문제). In fixed business terms, '인' is often omitted (e.g., 잠재적 고객).
It is neutral. It can be positive (잠재적 능력 - potential talent) or negative (잠재적 위험 - potential risk).
潛 (잠 - submerged), 在 (재 - exist), 的 (적 - adjective suffix). It literally means 'submerged existence quality'.
Yes, if you are reflecting on your future or hidden talents. It makes your writing sound more introspective and sophisticated.
Yes, especially in medical, legal, or business dramas where hidden risks or 'potential' evidence are key plot points.
自我测试 200 个问题
Translate: 'We must identify potential risks.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translate: 'He has potential talent.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translate: 'Who are our potential customers?'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translate: 'This project has potential value.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translate: 'Don't underestimate potential impact.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write a sentence using '잠재적 고객'.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write a sentence using '잠재적 능력'.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translate: 'Potential threat'.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translate: 'Potential market share'.
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Translate: 'Subconscious mind'.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write a sentence using '잠재적이다'.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translate: 'Potential growth rate'.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translate: 'Potential side effects'.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translate: 'Potential competitors'.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translate: 'Potential development'.
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Write a sentence using '잠재적인'.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translate: 'Potential benefit'.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translate: 'Potential loss'.
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Translate: 'Potential energy'.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translate: 'Potential genius'.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Say: 'Potential customer' in Korean.
Read this aloud:
你说的:
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Say: 'There is potential risk.'
Read this aloud:
你说的:
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Say: 'I have potential talent.'
Read this aloud:
你说的:
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Say: 'We need potential partners.'
Read this aloud:
你说的:
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Say: 'Check the potential value.'
Read this aloud:
你说的:
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Say: 'Potential growth rate is high.'
Read this aloud:
你说的:
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Say: 'It is a potential problem.'
Read this aloud:
你说的:
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Say: 'Don't ignore potential threats.'
Read this aloud:
你说的:
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Say: 'Potential impact is huge.'
Read this aloud:
你说的:
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Say: 'I'm studying potential demand.'
Read this aloud:
你说的:
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Say: 'Potential side effects are possible.'
Read this aloud:
你说的:
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Say: 'Analyze potential competitors.'
Read this aloud:
你说的:
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Say: 'Potential energy conversion.'
Read this aloud:
你说的:
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Say: 'Potential self-realization.'
Read this aloud:
你说的:
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Say: 'Potential conflict factor.'
Read this aloud:
你说的:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Say: 'Potential market share.'
Read this aloud:
你说的:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Say: 'Potential asset value.'
Read this aloud:
你说的:
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Say: 'Potential success opportunity.'
Read this aloud:
你说的:
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Say: 'Potential leadership skills.'
Read this aloud:
你说的:
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Say: 'Potential social problem.'
Read this aloud:
你说的:
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Listen and write the word: [Audio: 잠재적]
Listen and write the word: [Audio: 잠재력]
Listen and write the phrase: [Audio: 잠재적 고객]
Listen and write the phrase: [Audio: 잠재적 위험]
Listen and write the sentence: [Audio: 잠재적 능력이 커요.]
Listen and write the phrase: [Audio: 잠재적 의식]
Listen and write the phrase: [Audio: 잠재적 성장률]
Listen and write the phrase: [Audio: 잠재적 부작용]
Listen and write the sentence: [Audio: 잠재적 위험을 확인하세요.]
Listen and write the phrase: [Audio: 잠재적 시장 점유율]
Listen and write the phrase: [Audio: 잠재적 위협 요소]
Listen and write the sentence: [Audio: 잠재적 수요가 많습니다.]
Listen and write the phrase: [Audio: 잠재적 파트너십]
Listen and write the phrase: [Audio: 잠재적 갈등]
Listen and write the phrase: [Audio: 잠재적 가치 평가]
/ 200 correct
Perfect score!
Summary
The word '잠재적' is your go-to adjective for discussing possibilities that are currently hidden but have the inherent power to manifest. For example, '잠재적 위험' (potential risk) warns of a danger that exists beneath the surface, requiring proactive attention before it becomes actual.
- Potential or latent; describes something hidden that could emerge later.
- Commonly used in business (potential customers) and psychology (latent talent).
- Formal register; often requires the particle '-인' when modifying nouns.
- Rooted in Hanja meaning 'submerged existence,' emphasizing hidden capacity.
Business Pro Tip
When writing a business plan in Korean, use '잠재적 시장' to impress investors with your analytical vocabulary.
Adjective Suffix
Remember that '-적' words are very flexible. They can be nouns, adjectives (with -인), or adverbs (with -으로).
Iceberg Rule
Always associate '잠재적' with an iceberg. It helps you remember that the most important part is hidden below the surface.
Polite Praise
If you want to encourage someone without being too direct, say they have '잠재력' (potential). It sounds very supportive.
例句
이 기술은 잠재적인 위험 요소를 가지고 있다.
相关内容
更多science词汇
흡수하다
B2吸收液体、光或知识。通过合并整合公司。
흡수
B1吸收或吸纳某种东西(如液体、营养、信息或组织)的行为。
축적하다
B2积累;积聚。指在一段时间内大量聚集知识、经验、财富等。例:他在工作中积累了丰富的经验。
축적
B2财富、知识或经验随着时间的推移而逐渐积累的过程。(The gradual gathering of wealth, knowledge, or experience over time.)
누적
B2随时间聚集或累积的行为;逐渐建立的总量。
후천적
B2Acquired or learned after birth through experience, education, or environment.
작용
B2某物对另一事物的作用或效果,或特定过程的功能。 (The action or effect that something has on another thing, or the functioning of a particular process.)
조절하다
B1To adjust, regulate, or control something to a desired level or state. It often refers to managing physical settings or personal habits.
증폭
B2指声音、电信号或情感、问题等的强度或规模变大(增幅)。例如:“放大器增幅声音”或“疑惑被增幅”。
증폭되다
B2To be amplified, magnified, or increased in intensity. It can refer to physical signals or abstract concepts like tension or rumors.