미적분학
mijeokbunhak[mid͡ʑʌ̹k̚p͈unɦa̠k̚]
Calculus in Korean is 미적분학 (mijeokbunhak).
The term refers to the mathematical subject encompassing both differential and integral calculus.
Meaning: differential calculus and integral calculus considered as a single subject (noun)
What does it mean word for word?
미적분학 is a compound word consisting of 미분 (differentiation), 적분 (integration) and 학 (study or science).
Which one should you use?
While 미적분학 refers to the entire subject of calculus, you may encounter the related terms 미분, which refers specifically to differentiation and 적분, which refers specifically to integration.
How do you pronounce it?
mijeokbunhak
Did you know?
- The word 미분 is also used in Korean chemistry and materials science to describe a 'fine powder'. This is because both meanings rely on the idea of breaking something down into the smallest possible pieces.
- The character 미 (微) in 미적분학 literally means 'tiny' or 'invisible'. This describes the 'infinitesimal' changes that are central to the logic of differential calculus.
- In a Korean high school context, 미적분 is often treated as a 'killer subject' because of its extreme difficulty. It is frequently the deciding factor in a student's ranking for university entrance exams.
Examples in context
- 미적분을 공부해야 학문을 깊이 이해할 수 있습니다.To deeply understand academic subjects, you have to study calculus.
- 미적분은 고등학교 수학 과정에 포함되어 있습니다.Calculus is included in high school math curriculum.
Example conversation
Two students are discussing their college course schedule in a cafe.
- 지은 Ji-eun지훈 씨, 이번 학기에 미적분학 들어요?Jihun ssi, ibeon hakgie mijeokbunhak deureoyo?Jihun, are you taking calculus this semester?
- 지훈 Ji-hun네, 그런데 내용이 너무 복잡해요.Ne, geureonde naeyongi neomu bokjaphaeyo.Yes, but the content is too complex.
- 지은 Ji-eun저도 그래요. 같이 공부할까요?Jeodo geuraeyo. Gachi gongbuhalkkayo?Me too. Shall we study together?
- 지훈 Ji-hun좋아요. 내일 도서관에서 만나요.Joayo. Naeil doseogwaneseo mannayo.Sounds good. Let's meet at the library tomorrow.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry 미적분학, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
