Meaning and Usage
The adjective '명확하다' means 'to be clear' or 'to be precise.' It is commonly used to describe explanations, goals, criteria, or any information that is easy to understand without ambiguity.
Common Contexts
You will often hear '명확하다' in academic, professional, or everyday conversations when clarity is important. For example, clear instructions, precise definitions, or well-defined objectives.
Collocations and Patterns
- 명확한 설명 (clear explanation): Used when someone explains something in an easy-to-understand way.
- 명확한 목표 (clear goal): Refers to a goal that is specific and well-defined.
- 명확한 기준 (clear criteria): Standards or rules that are clearly set.
Register and Politeness
'명확하다' is a neutral formal adjective often used in written and spoken Korean. It fits well in formal contexts such as presentations, reports, and polite conversations.
Common Mistakes
Learners sometimes confuse '명확하다' with '분명하다,' which also means 'clear.' While similar, '분명하다' often emphasizes certainty or obviousness, whereas '명확하다' stresses precision and clarity in details. Use '명확하다' when focusing on clear and precise information.