Level 5

외면

oemyeon

The exterior (e.g. the rind of a fruit)

TOPIK 5

Meaning and Usage

The Korean word '외면' primarily means 'the exterior' or 'outer surface' of something, such as the rind of a fruit or the outside of an object. However, it also carries a figurative meaning of 'ignoring' or 'turning away from' something, especially problems or uncomfortable truths.

Common Contexts

  1. Literal use: Describing the outside or surface of physical objects.
  2. Figurative use: Describing the act of ignoring or avoiding issues or people.

Collocations and Patterns

  • 외면하다: to ignore or turn one's face away from something.
  • 문제를 외면하다: to ignore a problem.
  • 진실을 외면하다: to turn a blind eye to the truth.

Register and Nuance

'외면' is a formal noun often used in written and spoken Korean at intermediate to advanced levels. When combined with 하다 (to do), it forms a verb meaning 'to ignore' or 'to turn away.' It often implies a deliberate or conscious avoidance.

Common Mistakes

Learners sometimes confuse '외면' with '외관' (appearance) or '표면' (surface). While '외면' can mean exterior, its figurative use as 'ignoring' is unique and important to recognize. Avoid translating it literally in contexts where ignoring or avoidance is intended.

Example Sentences

과일의 외면을 깨끗이 씻어야 해요.

Gwailui oemyeoneul kkaekkeusi ssiseoya haeyo.

You should wash the exterior of the fruit thoroughly.

그는 문제를 외면하지 말고 해결하려고 노력해야 한다.

Geuneun munjeleul oemyeonhaji malgo haegyeolharyeo noryeokhaeya handa.

He should not ignore the problem but try to solve it.

사람들은 종종 불편한 진실을 외면한다.

Saramdeureun jongjong bulpyeonhan jinsireul oemyeonhanda.

People often turn a blind eye to uncomfortable truths.