At the A1 level, you should learn '대표' as a simple noun meaning 'representative' or 'boss.' Think of it as the person who stands at the front of a group. You might hear it in school when talking about a 'class representative' or in a store when someone mentions the 'boss.' At this stage, just focus on the basic meaning: one person who speaks for many. You can use it in simple sentences like 'I am the representative' (저는 대표입니다). It is a useful word to know because it appears in many common compound words. Even at this early stage, try to remember that adding '-님' (nim) makes it polite: '대표님.' This will help you sound respectful if you ever meet the head of a company or a group leader. Don't worry about the complex business meanings yet; just think of it as the 'face' of a group.
At the A2 level, you can start using '대표' in more specific contexts, especially in business and sports. You should understand that '대표님' is the standard way to address a CEO or the head of a company. You will also encounter '국가대표' (national representative), which refers to athletes on the national team. You should be able to form sentences using the verb '대표하다' (to represent), such as 'He represents our school' (그는 우리 학교를 대표합니다). At this level, you should also recognize '대표적인' as an adjective meaning 'typical' or 'representative.' For example, 'Bulgogi is a representative Korean food.' You are moving beyond just the person and starting to see how the word describes things that are the best examples of their kind. Practice using it with the object marker '-를/을' when using the verb form.
At the B1 level, you should be comfortable using '대표' in professional and formal settings. You should understand the difference between '대표' (the person), '대표이사' (the formal title of a CEO), and '대표자' (the legal representative). You should also be able to use the formal structure '[Noun]을/를 대표하여' (on behalf of [Noun]) in speeches or formal emails. For example, 'I am speaking on behalf of the employees.' You will hear this word often in news reports about politics, where it refers to the leaders of political parties (e.g., '여당 대표'). You should also be aware of the cultural weight of being a '대표'—it implies a high level of responsibility and being the symbolic center of a group. You can start to distinguish '대표' from similar words like '대리인' (agent) or '상징' (symbol) in more nuanced conversations.
At the B2 level, you should understand the abstract and symbolic nuances of '대표.' It's not just about people; it's about ideas and examples. You should be able to discuss '대표적인 사례' (representative examples) in academic or business presentations. You should understand how '대표' functions in legal and corporate governance, such as the responsibilities of a '대표이사' (Representative Director) under Korean law. You will encounter the word in complex news stories about international relations, where '대표단' (delegation) refers to a group of representatives sent to a summit. You should also be able to use the word in idiomatic ways, such as picking a '대표' for a social task. Your usage should reflect an understanding of the honorific system, knowing exactly when to use '대표님' versus referring to someone as '대표' in the third person in a formal report.
At the C1 level, you should have a near-native grasp of '대표' and its derivatives. You can use it to discuss complex topics like '대표성' (representativeness) in democratic systems or statistical sampling. You should be able to analyze how a '대표' functions as a cultural icon or an epitome of a certain era or movement. You will understand the subtle differences between '대표' and '전형' (archetype) or '모범' (model/exemplar). In a professional context, you can navigate high-level negotiations where '대표권' (the right of representation) is discussed. You should be able to use the word in sophisticated writing, employing various grammatical structures like '대표하는 바' (that which represents). Your understanding includes the historical evolution of the term and its specific connotations in different industries, from the arts to heavy industry.
At the C2 level, your mastery of '대표' is complete. You can use the word with full rhetorical effect in speeches, legal arguments, or literary analysis. You understand the philosophical implications of 'representation' as expressed through the word '대표.' You can effortlessly switch between its many roles: as a corporate title, a political leader, a national hero, a statistical term, and a symbolic epitome. You are aware of the most obscure collocations and can use the word to convey subtle irony or deep respect depending on the context. You can discuss the '대표이사's' fiduciary duties or the '국가대표's' role in soft power diplomacy with equal ease. The word is no longer just a vocabulary item but a versatile tool in your linguistic arsenal, used to describe the very essence of how individuals and objects stand for the whole.

대표 30秒了解

  • A representative or delegate for a group.
  • The standard title for a CEO (대표님).
  • A national athlete (국가대표).
  • A typical or classic example of something.

The Korean word 대표 (Dae-pyo) is a multifaceted noun that primarily translates to 'representative,' 'delegate,' or 'CEO.' At its core, it describes a person or thing that stands in for a larger group, embodying their interests, qualities, or authority. In the professional world, it is the most common way to refer to the head of a company, especially in startups and small-to-medium enterprises. Unlike the more generic '사장' (boss), calling someone '대표님' (Dae-pyo-nim) carries a sense of formal respect for their role as the legal and symbolic face of the organization. Beyond the office, you will encounter this word frequently in the context of sports, where a '국가대표' (guk-ga-dae-pyo) is a national athlete representing the country on the global stage. It is also used to describe the 'epitome' or 'classic example' of a category, such as calling Kimchi the representative food of Korea.

Business Context
In a corporate setting, '대표' usually refers to the '대표이사' (Representative Director/CEO). It is the standard title used when addressing the person in charge of a business entity. Employees will almost always append the honorific '-님' to address them as '대표님'.

우리 회사의 대표님은 매우 젊으십니다. (Our company's CEO is very young.)

National Representation
When combined with '국가' (nation), it forms '국가대표', which refers to national team members. This is a source of great pride in Korean culture, and the term is often shortened to '국대' in casual conversation.

그는 축구 국가대표 선수로 선발되었습니다. (He was selected as a national representative soccer player.)

The word is composed of two Hanja (Chinese characters): 代 (Dae) meaning 'to substitute' or 'replace,' and 表 (Pyo) meaning 'to express' or 'surface.' Together, they literally mean 'to express [the group] by substituting [as an individual].' This etymological root helps explain why the word applies to both people (representatives) and things (representative examples). For instance, when discussing architecture, one might say a certain building is the '대표' of a specific era, meaning it perfectly expresses the characteristics of that time. Understanding this dual nature—both as a title for a person of authority and as a descriptor for a prototypical example—is key to mastering its usage across different CEFR levels. In everyday life, you might also hear '학생 대표' (student representative) or '반 대표' (class president/representative), showing that the term scales from small classrooms to entire nations and massive corporations.

Symbolic Usage
It is used to describe the most famous or characteristic item in a category. If someone asks for the representative dish of a restaurant, they are asking for the 'signature dish'.

이 식당의 대표 메뉴는 불고기입니다. (The representative menu item of this restaurant is Bulgogi.)

Using 대표 correctly requires understanding its grammatical flexibility as both a noun and a prefix in compound words. When used as a standalone noun referring to a person, it often takes the subject markers -가/이 or the object markers -를/을. For example, '대표가 결정했다' (The representative decided). When you are talking about the act of representing, you use the verb 대표하다 (to represent). This verb is transitive, meaning it takes an object: '그는 한국을 대표한다' (He represents Korea). This distinction is vital: '대표' is the person, while '대표하다' is the action they perform. In formal writing, you will often see the structure '[Group]을/를 대표하여,' which means 'Representing [Group]' or 'On behalf of [Group].' This is a standard opening for speeches or official statements.

As a Title
When using it as a title for a specific person, place the name before the title: '김철수 대표' (Representative Chul-soo Kim). In direct address, always use '대표님'.

대표님, 회의 준비가 다 되었습니다. (CEO Kim, the meeting preparation is all done.)

As an Adjective (Representative)
To use it as an adjective meaning 'representative' or 'typical,' you use the form '대표적인' (dae-pyo-jeok-in). This is incredibly common in academic and descriptive Korean.

이것은 조선 시대의 대표적인 건축물입니다. (This is a representative building of the Joseon Dynasty.)

In the context of sports and competitions, '대표' is often used in the phrase '대표팀' (representative team/national team). When a player is 'selected' for this team, the verb '발탁되다' (to be selected/tapped) or '선발되다' (to be picked) is frequently used. For example, '그는 국가대표로 발탁되었다' (He was selected as a national representative). Another common pattern is '대표를 맡다' (to take on the role of representative). This is used when someone is appointed to lead a group or a project. For instance, '제가 이번 프로젝트의 대표를 맡게 되었습니다' (I have come to take on the role of representative for this project). This phrasing is humble and professional, indicating that the speaker is serving the group. Furthermore, in legal or business documents, you will see '대표자' (dae-pyo-ja), which specifically refers to the legal representative or the person with signing authority. Understanding these nuances allows you to transition from simple sentences like 'I am the representative' to complex professional interactions.

On Behalf Of
The pattern '[Noun]을/를 대표하여' is essential for formal speeches. It shows you are acting as the voice for others.

가족을 대표하여 감사의 인사를 드립니다. (On behalf of my family, I express my gratitude.)

You will hear 대표 in a wide variety of social and professional environments in Korea. In the workplace, it is ubiquitous. If you work in a Korean company, you will hear employees discussing the '대표님의 지시' (CEO's instructions) or preparing for a '대표님과의 면담' (meeting with the CEO). In the startup scene in Seoul (like in Gangnam or Pangyo), the word '대표' has a cool, entrepreneurial ring to it, often associated with young founders. On the news, the word is used daily in political and international contexts. You'll hear about '여당 대표' (ruling party representative/leader) or '야당 대표' (opposition party leader). These figures are the faces of their respective political movements, and their every move is scrutinized by the media. During the Olympics or World Cup, the word '국가대표' is shouted in every household, appearing in headlines, commercials, and cheers. It evokes a strong sense of national identity and collective pride.

In Schools
Students use this word for their class leaders. '과대표' (Gwa-dae-pyo), often shortened to '과대', is the student representative for a specific major or department in a university.

우리 과대표는 정말 책임감이 강해요. (Our department representative is really responsible.)

In Marketing
Advertisements often use '대표' to claim a product is the best in its class. A skincare brand might claim to be the '대한민국 대표 수분크림' (Korea's representative moisturizing cream).

이곳은 서울의 대표적인 관광지입니다. (This is a representative tourist spot in Seoul.)

In the legal world, '법정 대리인' (legal representative) is a related concept, but '대표' is used when referring to the person who represents a corporation in legal matters. If you are signing a contract with a Korean company, you will see the field for '대표자 서명' (representative's signature). In casual social gatherings, if a group needs to pick someone to speak or perform a task, they might say '누가 대표로 할래?' (Who wants to do it as the representative?). This shows how the word filters down from high-level corporate and national contexts into everyday decision-making. Even in food culture, certain cities have '대표 음식' (representative foods), like Jeonju's Bibimbap or Busan's Dwaeji-gukbap. Hearing this word helps you identify what is considered the 'gold standard' or the 'face' of any given category in Korea. It is a word that bridges the gap between individual identity and group belonging, making it essential for understanding the collective nature of Korean society.

In Media
News anchors use '대표' when introducing the heads of delegations for international summits or peace talks.

각국 대표들이 회담장에 모였습니다. (Representatives from each country gathered at the conference hall.)

One of the most common mistakes English speakers make with 대표 is using it interchangeably with other leadership titles like '사장' (Sa-jang) or '회장' (Hwi-jang) without understanding the hierarchy. While all three can be translated as 'boss' or 'head,' they have specific nuances. '대표' is the functional and legal representative of a company. '사장' is a more traditional term for 'president' or 'owner' of a shop or small business. '회장' is reserved for the 'Chairman' of a large conglomerate (Chaebol). Using '사장님' for the CEO of a modern tech startup might sound slightly dated or overly informal, whereas '대표님' is the professional standard. Another mistake is forgetting the honorific '-님' when addressing the person directly. In Korean, calling a CEO just '대표' to their face is considered quite rude; it must be '대표님'.

Confusing Representative with Agent
Learners often confuse '대표' with '대리' (Dae-ri). While '대리' can mean 'deputy' or 'proxy,' in a corporate context, '대리' is actually a specific junior management rank (Assistant Manager). Don't accidentally call your CEO a 'Dae-ri'!

❌ 대표가 오셨어요. (The representative came - too informal for a boss)
대표님이 오셨어요. (The CEO has arrived.)

Adjective Misuse
Another error is using '대표' as an adjective without the proper suffix. You cannot say '대표 음식' to mean 'representative food' in all contexts; often '대표적인 음식' is grammatically safer when you want to say 'a typical food'.

❌ 이것은 대표 음식이다.
✅ 이것은 한국의 대표적인 음식이다. (This is a representative food of Korea.)

Furthermore, learners sometimes struggle with the verb '대표하다'. They might try to use it with the particle '-가' for the object, but it must take '-를/을'. For example, '그는 학교가 대표한다' is incorrect; it should be '그는 학교를 대표한다' (He represents the school). In the context of national athletes, some might say '그는 국가대표이다' (He is a national representative), which is correct, but they might forget that '국가대표' is often treated as a single compound noun. In social settings, picking a '대표' to pay the bill (a common Korean joke) uses the word in a lighthearted way, but using it in a serious business meeting requires strict adherence to honorifics. Lastly, avoid using '대표' for a 'sales representative' in a retail store; for that, '직원' (staff) or '판매원' (salesperson) is more appropriate. '대표' always implies a higher level of authority or symbolic standing.

Particle Confusion
When saying 'on behalf of,' learners often forget the '를' in '를 대표하여'.

❌ 학생 대표하여 말하겠습니다.
✅ 학생들을 대표하여 말하겠습니다. (I will speak on behalf of the students.)

To truly master 대표, you must understand how it relates to its synonyms and near-synonyms. While '대표' is the most versatile term for a representative, other words are used in specific legal, political, or social contexts. For example, 대리인 (Dae-ri-in) specifically refers to an 'agent' or 'proxy' who has the legal authority to act on someone else's behalf, often used in law or real estate. 상징 (Sang-jing) means 'symbol' or 'emblem.' While a '대표' can be a symbol, '상징' is used for more abstract representations, like 'The dove is a symbol of peace.' If you are talking about a 'delegate' to a convention or a formal assembly, the word 대의원 (Dae-ui-won) is often used in political or union contexts.

대표 vs. 사장
'대표' is the official title for the head of a company (CEO). '사장' is a more general term for 'boss' or 'owner'. In modern startups, '대표' is much more common.
대표 vs. 대변인
A '대변인' (Dae-byeon-in) is a 'spokesperson'. While a representative (대표) might speak for a group, a spokesperson's primary job is communication.
대표 vs. 전형
'전형' (Jeon-hyeong) means 'archetype' or 'model'. Use this for something that is the perfect, standard example of a type, whereas '대표' is more about being the 'face' of a group.

그는 우리 팀의 대표입니다. (He is our team's representative.) vs. 그는 우리 팀의 상징입니다. (He is the symbol of our team.)

In the business world, you might also encounter 임원 (Im-won), which refers to 'executives' or 'board members' in general. While the '대표' is an executive, not all '임원' are the '대표'. In diplomatic circles, 사절 (Sa-jeol) refers to an 'envoy' or 'emissary.' When describing something as 'typical,' you can use 전형적인 (Jeon-hyeong-jeok-in) as an alternative to '대표적인'. '전형적인' often implies a more rigid adherence to a standard pattern, while '대표적인' simply means it's the most well-known or prominent example. For instance, '전형적인 한국 가옥' (a typical Korean house) vs. '한국의 대표적인 관광지' (Korea's representative tourist spot). Understanding these subtle differences will help you choose the right word for the right level of formality and specific meaning. Whether you are acting as a proxy (대리인), a symbol (상징), or the ultimate head (대표), each word carries a distinct weight in the Korean language.

Summary Table
Word Nuance
대표 (Dae-pyo)General representative / CEO
대리인 (Dae-ri-in)Legal agent / Proxy
상징 (Sang-jing)Abstract symbol
대변인 (Dae-byeon-in)Spokesperson

How Formal Is It?

趣味小知识

The character 表 (Pyo) originally depicted the fur of an animal worn on the outside, which is why it means 'surface' or 'to show.'

发音指南

UK /dɛ.pʰjo/
US /deɪ.pjoʊ/
The stress is equal on both syllables, as is typical in Korean.
押韵词
투표 (tu-pyo - voting) 발표 (bal-pyo - presentation) 목표 (mok-pyo - goal) 지표 (ji-pyo - indicator) 도표 (do-pyo - chart) 수표 (su-pyo - check) 우표 (u-pyo - stamp) 공표 (gong-pyo - public announcement)
常见错误
  • Pronouncing 'pyo' as 'pyo' (ticket) without enough aspiration.
  • Pronouncing 'dae' like 'die' (it should be 'day').
  • Mixing up the 'p' and 'b' sounds.
  • Making the 'o' sound too much like 'u'.
  • Forgetting to pause slightly between the two syllables.

难度评级

阅读 2/5

Easy to recognize in texts due to frequent usage.

写作 3/5

Requires knowledge of particles and honorifics.

口语 3/5

Aspiration of 'p' in 'pyo' is important for clarity.

听力 2/5

Commonly heard in dramas and news.

接下来学什么

前置知识

사람 (person) 회사 (company) 우리 (we/our) 말하다 (to speak) 하다 (to do)

接下来学习

책임 (responsibility) 선출 (election) 조직 (organization) 상징 (symbol) 권한 (authority)

高级

법인격 (legal personality) 대의제 (representative system) 표본 추출 (sampling) 위임장 (power of attorney)

需要掌握的语法

Honorific Suffix -님

대표 + 님 = 대표님

Adjective Suffix -적인

대표 + 적인 = 대표적인

Object Marker -를/을 with 대표하다

학교를 대표하다

On behalf of pattern -을/를 대표하여

가족을 대표하여

Capacity marker -로

대표로 선발되다

按水平分级的例句

1

저는 우리 반 대표입니다.

I am our class representative.

Simple Noun + 입니다 (to be).

2

대표님, 안녕하세요?

Hello, CEO.

Noun + 님 (honorific) + Greeting.

3

누가 대표예요?

Who is the representative?

Interrogative '누가' (who) + Noun.

4

이것은 대표 메뉴입니다.

This is the representative (signature) menu.

Noun as a modifier.

5

우리 팀 대표가 왔어요.

Our team representative came.

Subject marker -가.

6

그는 학생 대표예요.

He is the student representative.

Noun + 예요 (to be).

7

대표를 뽑아요.

Let's pick a representative.

Object marker -를 + 뽑다 (to pick).

8

엄마가 가족 대표예요.

Mom is the family representative.

Subject marker -가.

1

그는 축구 국가대표 선수입니다.

He is a national representative soccer player.

Compound noun: 국가 (nation) + 대표 (representative).

2

김치를 한국의 대표적인 음식이라고 해요.

Kimchi is called a representative food of Korea.

Adjective form: 대표적인.

3

우리 회사를 대표해서 제가 왔습니다.

I came representing our company.

Verb: 대표하다 + -해서 (reason/manner).

4

대표님께 보고서를 드렸어요.

I gave the report to the CEO.

Dative honorific: -께.

5

이 건물은 서울의 대표 건물이에요.

This building is a representative building of Seoul.

Noun + Noun structure.

6

누가 우리 학교를 대표합니까?

Who represents our school?

Verb: 대표하다 (to represent).

7

그는 반 대표로 선발되었습니다.

He was selected as the class representative.

Particle -로 (as/in the capacity of).

8

대표님의 말씀을 잘 들으세요.

Please listen carefully to what the CEO says.

Honorific noun: 말씀 (words).

1

직원들을 대표하여 감사의 인사를 드립니다.

On behalf of the employees, I express my gratitude.

Formal pattern: -을/를 대표하여.

2

이번 회의에는 각국 대표들이 참석했습니다.

Representatives from each country attended this meeting.

Plural marker: -들.

3

그는 당 대표로 선출되었습니다.

He was elected as the party leader.

Political context: 당 (party) + 대표.

4

이 작품은 작가의 대표작 중 하나입니다.

This work is one of the author's representative works.

Compound: 대표작 (masterpiece/representative work).

5

대표이사님의 서명이 필요합니다.

The Representative Director's signature is required.

Formal title: 대표이사 (CEO).

6

그는 한국 문화를 대표하는 인물입니다.

He is a figure who represents Korean culture.

Attributive verb: 대표하는.

7

우리는 새로운 대표자를 뽑아야 합니다.

We need to pick a new representative.

Noun: 대표자 (representative person).

8

이 사건은 현대 사회의 대표적인 문제입니다.

This incident is a representative problem of modern society.

Adjective: 대표적인.

1

그는 법정 대리인이자 회사의 대표입니다.

He is both the legal agent and the representative of the company.

Connective: -이자 (and also).

2

이 데이터는 전체 집단을 대표하지 못합니다.

This data does not represent the entire population.

Statistical context: 대표하다.

3

대표팀은 이번 경기에서 최선을 다했습니다.

The national team did their best in this match.

Noun: 대표팀 (national team).

4

그는 청년 세대를 대표하는 목소리를 냅니다.

He speaks as a voice representing the youth generation.

Metaphorical usage.

5

회사의 대표권은 이사회에 있습니다.

The right of representation of the company lies with the board of directors.

Legal term: 대표권 (right of representation).

6

이것은 그 시대의 대표적인 건축 양식입니다.

This is a representative architectural style of that era.

Noun: 건축 양식 (architectural style).

7

그는 자신의 행동이 나라를 대표한다고 생각합니다.

He thinks his actions represent his country.

Indirect speech: -고 생각하다.

8

우리는 대표단을 구성하여 파견하기로 했습니다.

We decided to form and dispatch a delegation.

Noun: 대표단 (delegation).

1

이 소설은 전후 문학의 대표적인 수작으로 꼽힙니다.

This novel is counted as a representative masterpiece of post-war literature.

Passive: 꼽히다 (to be counted/considered).

2

그의 주장은 학계의 일반적인 견해를 대표하지 않습니다.

His argument does not represent the general view of the academic community.

Academic context.

3

대의 민주주의에서 대표의 역할은 매우 중요합니다.

The role of a representative is very important in representative democracy.

Political science term: 대의 민주주의.

4

이 현상은 사회적 갈등의 대표적인 발현이라고 볼 수 있습니다.

This phenomenon can be seen as a representative manifestation of social conflict.

Abstract noun: 발현 (manifestation).

5

그는 한국 현대 미술을 대표하는 거장입니다.

He is a master who represents Korean modern art.

Noun: 거장 (master/maestro).

6

표본이 모집단을 충분히 대표하고 있는지 확인해야 합니다.

We must check if the sample sufficiently represents the population.

Statistical term: 모집단 (population).

7

그녀는 여성 인권 운동의 대표적인 인물로 추앙받습니다.

She is revered as a representative figure of the women's rights movement.

Passive: 추앙받다 (to be revered).

8

이 정책은 정부의 의지를 대표하는 핵심 과제입니다.

This policy is a key task that represents the government's will.

Metaphorical representation.

1

그의 시는 인간 소외라는 보편적 주제를 대표적으로 형상화했습니다.

His poetry representatively embodied the universal theme of human alienation.

Adverbial: 대표적으로.

2

이 건축물은 기능주의 미학의 대표적 발로라고 평가받습니다.

This building is evaluated as a representative manifestation of functionalist aesthetics.

Formal term: 발로 (manifestation/expression).

3

그는 당대 지식인들의 고뇌를 대표하는 상징적 존재였습니다.

He was a symbolic existence representing the anguish of the intellectuals of that time.

Historical/Literary context.

4

대표권 남용은 법인에 막대한 손해를 끼칠 수 있습니다.

Abuse of representation rights can cause enormous damage to a corporation.

Legal term: 대표권 남용.

5

이 데이터 세트는 기후 변화의 대표적인 지표들을 포함하고 있습니다.

This data set includes representative indicators of climate change.

Scientific context.

6

그의 죽음은 한 시대의 종언을 대표하는 사건으로 기록되었습니다.

His death was recorded as an event representing the end of an era.

Historical context.

7

우리는 민의를 대표하는 기관으로서 책임을 다해야 합니다.

As an institution representing the will of the people, we must fulfill our responsibility.

Formal term: 민의 (will of the people).

8

이 현상은 자본주의 모순의 대표적인 단면을 보여줍니다.

This phenomenon shows a representative cross-section of the contradictions of capitalism.

Sociological context.

常见搭配

국가대표
대표이사
대표적인 사례
대표팀
대표를 맡다
대표로 선출되다
대표 메뉴
대표작
대표권
대표단

常用短语

대표님

— The most common and polite way to address a CEO or representative.

대표님, 결재 부탁드립니다.

국대

— A common slang abbreviation for 국가대표 (national representative).

그는 전직 국대 출신이다.

과대

— A common slang abbreviation for 과대표 (department representative).

과대한테 물어봐.

대표적인

— Used to describe something as typical or classic.

이것은 대표적인 한국 요리입니다.

대표하여

— Used when doing something on behalf of a group.

모두를 대표하여 감사드립니다.

대표 선수

— A representative athlete.

그는 학교 대표 선수입니다.

대표 인물

— A representative figure.

그는 이 시대의 대표 인물이다.

대표 주자

— A front-runner or leading figure in a field.

그는 IT 업계의 대표 주자다.

대표 브랜드

— A flagship or representative brand.

이것은 우리 회사의 대표 브랜드입니다.

대표 전화

— The main or representative phone number of an office.

대표 전화로 연락하세요.

容易混淆的词

대표 vs 대포

Sounds similar but means 'cannon' or 'artillery'.

대표 vs 대리

Often confused by learners; '대리' is a junior manager rank, while '대표' is the CEO.

대표 vs

Means 'ticket' or 'chart'; '대표' is the representative.

习语与表达

"얼굴 마담"

— A 'figurehead' representative who is only there for their looks or reputation.

그는 그 회사의 얼굴 마담일 뿐이다.

Informal/Slightly Negative
"간판"

— Literally 'signboard,' used to mean the representative face of a group.

그는 우리 팀의 간판 선수다.

Neutral
"대표로 쏘다"

— To pay for everyone in the group as the 'representative'.

오늘은 내가 대표로 쏠게!

Slang/Informal
"총대를 메다"

— To take the lead or take the blame for a group (literally 'to carry the gun').

누군가는 총대를 메고 대표로 말해야 해.

Idiomatic
"깃발을 들다"

— To take the lead as a representative or pioneer.

그가 개혁의 깃발을 들고 대표로 나섰다.

Metaphorical
"바지 사장"

— A 'paper' CEO who has the title but no real power.

그는 진짜 주인이 아니라 바지 사장일 뿐이야.

Slang/Negative
"상징적 존재"

— A symbolic existence/representative figure.

그는 우리 마을의 상징적 존재입니다.

Formal
"대표 주자"

— The leading representative in a specific field.

그는 K-pop의 대표 주자다.

Neutral
"얼굴을 알리다"

— To make oneself known as a representative of a group.

그는 국가대표로서 얼굴을 알렸다.

Common
"이름을 날리다"

— To become famous as a representative figure.

그는 대표적인 학자로 이름을 날렸다.

Common

容易混淆

대표 vs 사장

Both mean 'boss'.

'대표' is the official/legal title for a CEO, while '사장' is a more general or traditional term for an owner.

식당 사장님 vs. IT 회사 대표님

대표 vs 대리인

Both involve acting for others.

'대리인' is specifically a legal proxy or agent, while '대표' is a general representative or leader.

변호사는 나의 대리인이다.

대표 vs 상징

Both represent something.

'상징' is an abstract symbol (like a flag), while '대표' is usually a person or a prototypical example.

그는 팀의 상징이자 대표입니다.

대표 vs 대의원

Both mean delegate.

'대의원' is a formal term used in politics or unions for an elected delegate.

전국 대의원 대회

대표 vs 회장

Both are high-level titles.

'회장' is the Chairman (higher than CEO), while '대표' is the CEO/Representative Director.

삼성전자 회장님

句型

A1

저는 [Group] 대표입니다.

저는 학생 대표입니다.

A2

[Item]은 [Category]의 대표적인 [Noun]입니다.

불고기는 한국의 대표적인 음식입니다.

B1

[Group]을/를 대표하여 [Action].

직원들을 대표하여 인사드립니다.

B2

[Person]은 [Group]의 대표로 선출되었습니다.

그는 당 대표로 선출되었습니다.

C1

[Noun]은 [Concept]을 대표하는 사례입니다.

이 사건은 인권 침해를 대표하는 사례입니다.

C2

[Noun]의 대표권 남용은 [Result].

대표권 남용은 회사에 큰 손해를 입혔습니다.

A2

대표님, [Request]?

대표님, 이거 봐 주세요.

B1

[Person]은 국가대표로 발탁되었습니다.

그는 수영 국가대표로 발탁되었습니다.

词族

名词

대표자 (representative person)
대표이사 (CEO)
대표단 (delegation)
대표작 (masterpiece)
국가대표 (national rep)

动词

대표하다 (to represent)

形容词

대표적인 (representative/typical)

相关

상징 (symbol)
대리 (proxy)
위원 (committee member)
의원 (assembly member)
회장 (chairman)

如何使用

frequency

Extremely high in business, sports, and media.

常见错误
  • Using '대표' without '-님' when addressing a CEO. 대표님

    In Korean culture, addressing a superior by their title alone is considered rude.

  • Confusing '대표' with '대리'. 대표 (CEO) / 대리 (Assistant Manager)

    These are vastly different ranks in a company hierarchy.

  • Using the wrong particle with '대표하다'. [Noun]를/을 대표하다

    '대표하다' is a transitive verb and requires an object marker.

  • Saying '대표 음식' instead of '대표적인 음식'. 대표적인 음식

    While '대표 음식' is sometimes used, '대표적인' is the correct adjective form for 'typical'.

  • Using '대표' for a retail sales clerk. 직원 or 판매원

    '대표' implies high-level representation, not general service work.

小贴士

Addressing Authority

Always add '-님' to '대표' when speaking to or about the person in a professional context. It shows you respect their position.

Using 'Representative'

When you want to say 'typical,' remember to use the adjective form '대표적인' followed by a noun.

Sports Fans

If you follow Korean sports, learn '국대' (Guk-dae). It's the cool way to say national representative.

Startup Culture

In the Korean startup world, '대표' is the most common title for founders. It sounds more modern than '사장'.

Email Sign-offs

If you are the head of a group, you can sign off as '대표 [Your Name]' to show your role clearly.

Pronunciation

Make sure the 'p' in 'pyo' is breathy. Practice by holding a piece of paper in front of your mouth; it should move when you say 'pyo'.

Research Papers

Use '대표적인 사례' when introducing a case study in your writing to sound more professional.

Ordering Food

Ask '이 집의 대표 메뉴가 뭐예요?' to find out the signature dish of a restaurant.

Contracts

Look for the word '대표자' on Korean contracts; that is where the authorized person must sign.

Group Settings

If you are picked as the '대표' to do something in a group of friends, it's usually a lighthearted way of saying 'it's your turn!'

记住它

记忆技巧

Think of a 'Dae-pyo' as the 'Day-Pro' (the professional of the day) who stands up for the group.

视觉联想

Imagine a person standing on a podium (Pyo) holding a substitute (Dae) sign for a whole crowd.

Word Web

CEO National Team Typical Delegate Representative Signature Dish Masterpiece Spokesperson

挑战

Try to identify the '대표' of your favorite hobby, food category, and company today.

词源

Derived from the Hanja characters 代 (Dae) and 表 (Pyo).

原始含义: 代 means 'to substitute' or 'to replace,' and 表 means 'to show,' 'surface,' or 'express.'

Sino-Korean (Hanja-based vocabulary).

文化背景

Always use '-님' when addressing a '대표' directly to avoid being seen as disrespectful.

In English, we might say 'CEO' or 'Manager,' but 'Representative' is used more for politics or sales. In Korean, '대표' covers all these bases.

The 'National Representative' (국가대표) movie series about the Korean ski jump team. K-drama 'Start-Up' where characters compete to become the '대표' of their companies. The term '대표님' used frequently in romance dramas for wealthy male leads.

在生活中练习

真实语境

Business Meeting

  • 대표님, 안녕하십니까?
  • 대표님 결재 바랍니다.
  • 회사를 대표하여 말씀드립니다.
  • 대표이사 직인

Sports Event

  • 국가대표 선발전
  • 대표팀 명단
  • 나라를 대표하다
  • 국대 유니폼

School/University

  • 과대표 선거
  • 학생 대표 회의
  • 반 대표로 나가다
  • 대표로 발표하다

Restaurant/Tourism

  • 대표 메뉴가 뭐예요?
  • 서울의 대표 관광지
  • 이 지역의 대표 음식
  • 대표적인 명소

Legal/Official

  • 대표자 성명
  • 대표권 행사
  • 법정 대리인
  • 대표단 파견

对话开场白

"당신이 가장 좋아하는 국가대표 선수는 누구인가요?"

"이 식당의 대표 메뉴를 추천해 주시겠어요?"

"회사의 대표가 된다면 가장 먼저 무엇을 하고 싶나요?"

"한국의 대표적인 관광지는 어디라고 생각하세요?"

"학교 다닐 때 반 대표를 해본 적이 있나요?"

日记主题

내가 만약 우리나라를 대표하는 국가대표가 된다면 어떤 기분일지 써보세요.

우리 회사의 대표님에 대해 묘사해 보세요.

나를 대표하는 세 가지 단어는 무엇인가요?

한국의 대표적인 문화에 대해 설명하는 글을 써보세요.

대표라는 자리가 가진 책임감에 대해 자신의 생각을 정리해 보세요.

常见问题

10 个问题

While both can mean 'boss,' '대표' is the modern, official title for a CEO (Representative Director), especially in professional firms and startups. '사장' is a more traditional term often used for owners of shops or smaller businesses. In a professional setting, '대표님' is usually more respectful.

No, '대표' implies a high level of authority or symbolic representation. For a sales representative, use '판매원' (salesperson) or '영업 사원' (sales employee).

Primarily yes, it refers to national athletes. However, it can metaphorically be used for anyone who represents the nation in a specific field, like a 'representative chef' or 'representative artist'.

You should address them as '대표님' or '[Name] 대표님'. For example, '김철수 대표님, 안녕하십니까?'

It is the adjective form of '대표' and means 'representative,' 'typical,' or 'classic.' It is used to describe the best or most famous example of something.

It is a casual slang abbreviation for '과대표' (department representative) used among students. You should not use it in formal documents or when speaking to a professor.

It is the formal legal title for a 'Representative Director' or CEO in a Korean corporation. It is the person who has the legal authority to represent the company.

Yes, '대표' can refer to a thing that is a representative example, like a 'representative work' (대표작) or 'representative menu' (대표 메뉴).

'대표하다' means to act as a representative or to be a typical example. '상징하다' means to symbolize something abstractly. A person can '대표' a country, while a flag '상징's it.

When talking to others about your CEO, you can say '우리 대표님'. To their face, always use '대표님'.

自我测试 180 个问题

writing

Translate to Korean: 'I am the representative.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
writing

Translate to Korean: 'Hello, CEO.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
writing

Translate to Korean: 'He is a national representative.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
writing

Translate to Korean: 'This is a representative food.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
writing

Translate to Korean: 'I represent the company.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
writing

Translate to Korean: 'On behalf of my family...'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
writing

Translate to Korean: 'He was elected as the leader.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
writing

Translate to Korean: 'This is his masterpiece.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
writing

Translate to Korean: 'Who is the class representative?'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
writing

Translate to Korean: 'The CEO's signature is needed.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
writing

Translate to Korean: 'They formed a delegation.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
writing

Translate to Korean: 'It is a representative case.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
writing

Translate to Korean: 'I will take the role of representative.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
writing

Translate to Korean: 'He is the face of our team.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
writing

Translate to Korean: 'The ruling party leader arrived.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
writing

Translate to Korean: 'What is the signature dish?'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
writing

Translate to Korean: 'She represents the youth.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
writing

Translate to Korean: 'The right of representation is important.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
writing

Translate to Korean: 'I came as a representative.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
writing

Translate to Korean: 'Please listen to the CEO.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
speaking

Introduce yourself as the class representative.

Read this aloud:

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
speaking

Ask a restaurant for their signature dish.

Read this aloud:

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
speaking

Greet your CEO in the morning.

Read this aloud:

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
speaking

Say you represent your company.

Read this aloud:

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
speaking

Say 'On behalf of everyone, thank you.'

Read this aloud:

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
speaking

Tell someone he was picked as a national athlete.

Read this aloud:

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
speaking

Ask who the legal representative is.

Read this aloud:

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
speaking

Describe Kimchi as a typical Korean food.

Read this aloud:

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
speaking

Say you will take the lead for the group.

Read this aloud:

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
speaking

Ask for the CEO's signature.

Read this aloud:

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
speaking

Say the team won the game.

Read this aloud:

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
speaking

Identify a masterpiece.

Read this aloud:

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
speaking

Call the main office number.

Read this aloud:

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
speaking

Say 'I am the voice of the youth.'

Read this aloud:

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
speaking

Announce the new party leader.

Read this aloud:

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
speaking

Say 'I'm here as a representative.'

Read this aloud:

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
speaking

Discuss a representative case.

Read this aloud:

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
speaking

Express pride in national athletes.

Read this aloud:

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
speaking

Ask who wants to be the rep.

Read this aloud:

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
speaking

Address the board of directors.

Read this aloud:

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
listening

Listen and transcribe: '대표님, 커피 드세요.'

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
listening

Listen and transcribe: '그는 국가대표입니다.'

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
listening

Listen and transcribe: '대표적인 음식을 추천해 주세요.'

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
listening

Listen and transcribe: '저는 반 대표로 뽑혔어요.'

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
listening

Listen and transcribe: '회사를 대표하여 감사드립니다.'

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
listening

Listen and transcribe: '대표이사님의 지시입니다.'

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
listening

Listen and transcribe: '대표팀이 금메달을 땄어요.'

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
listening

Listen and transcribe: '이것은 그의 대표작 중 하나입니다.'

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
listening

Listen and transcribe: '각국 대표들이 모였습니다.'

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
listening

Listen and transcribe: '대표권 남용을 주의해야 합니다.'

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
listening

Listen and transcribe: '과대표한테 연락해 봐.'

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
listening

Listen and transcribe: '대표 전화로 문의하세요.'

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
listening

Listen and transcribe: '그는 당 대표로 출마했습니다.'

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
listening

Listen and transcribe: '대표적인 사례를 들어보겠습니다.'

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
listening

Listen and transcribe: '대표자 서명이 누락되었습니다.'

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
正确! 不太对。 正确答案:

/ 180 correct

Perfect score!

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