Meaning and Usage
The adverb '분명' means 'clearly' or 'definitely,' emphasizing certainty or obviousness in a statement. It is often used to stress that something is unmistakably true or evident.
Common Collocations
- 분명히 말하다: to speak clearly or explicitly
- 분명 사실이다: to be clearly true
- 분명 존재하다: to definitely exist
These collocations highlight how '분명' is used to assert clarity or certainty.
Register and Politeness
'분명' is neutral in formality and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. It is common in spoken and written Korean.
Common Mistakes
Learners sometimes confuse '분명' with '확실히' (surely, certainly). While similar, '분명' often stresses obviousness or clarity, whereas '확실히' emphasizes certainty or assurance. Using '분명' helps convey that something is evident or unmistakable.
Summary
Use '분명' when you want to express that something is clear, obvious, or definite. It strengthens statements by removing doubt and making the speaker's position explicit.