Korean word

명예

Pronunciation

Romanizationmyeongye

Meaning

  • nounhonor

Example

그 상을 받는 것은 명예예요.keu sang eul pan neun keo seun myeong ye ye yo

Receiving that award is an honor.

Illustration for 명예 (honor)

More examples

거짓말로 명예를 잃었다.keo jin mal lo myeong ye reul i reot tta

He lost his honor by lying.

Core concept

A respected standing gained when people value and praise someone or something.

Common phrases

  • 명예를 지키다myeong ye reul chi ki da

    defend one's honor

  • 명예를 잃다myeong ye reul il ta

    lose one's honor

  • 명예를 회복하다myeong ye reul hoe bo ka da

    restore one's honor

Similar words

영예yeongye: The honor and prestige attached to receiving a title or important award.
영광yeonggwang: A special privilege or event that brings a strong feeling of pride and honor.
명성myeongseong: A widely known reputation that earns respect from many people.

Definition in Korean

사회적 존중이나 칭찬을 받아 가치 있다고 여겨지는 상태나 지위sa hoe jeok chon jung i na ching cha neul pa da ka chi it tta go yeo gyeo ji neun sang tae na chi wi

Word origin

The Sino-Korean compound combines the ideas of a name or reputation and praise, linking public recognition with honor.

Usage tips

  • In award and formal settings, it highlights the prestige attached to recognition rather than simple public awareness.

Other meanings

  • famenoun
  • distinctionnoun

Opposites

  • 불명예pulmyeongyedishonornoun
  • 수치suchishamenoun

Related words

  • 명예롭다myeongyeropttahonorableadjective
  • 명예회복myeongyehoebokrestoration of honornoun
  • 명예훼손myeongyehwesondefamationnoun

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