순간
sun'gan[sʰunɡa̠n]
The English word "moment" is translated into Korean as 순간 (sun'gan).
순간 is used to refer to a very brief, specific and instantaneous point in time. You can use the phrase 그 순간 to specifically mean "that moment," which is a common way to highlight a pivotal or dramatic turning point in storytelling. Additionally, adding the particle –에 to the word creates 순간에, which means "at the moment" or "in the moment".
Meaning: very brief period of time (noun)
Which one should you use?
While 순간 refers to a specific, instantaneous point in time, the word 잠시 is used to describe a short duration of time, such as when you ask someone to "wait a moment".
How does it change in a sentence?
To express the phrase "at the moment" or "in the moment", you can add the particle –에 to the word to form 순간에.
How do you pronounce it?
sun'gan
Did you know?
- The word 순간 is actually a visual metaphor involving the eyes. It is composed of characters that represent the time it takes for an eye to blink.
- While 순간 refers to a point in time, Korean has a separate concept called 찰나 for an even smaller, almost infinitesimal moment, rooted in Buddhist philosophy.
- The word 순간 is frequently used in K-pop lyrics and romantic dramas to signal a life-changing encounter, often paired with the word 'destiny'.
Examples in context
- 그 순간을 기회로 활용하세요.Take advantage of the moment!This sentence is useful for learning how to use 순간 when discussing taking advantage of a specific point in time.Tatoeba #6295651 by okja, translation #6168872 by carlosalberto
- 나는 여기 온 뒤로 한 번도 바다에 들어가고 싶다는 생각을 안 했지만 지금 이 순간에 어쩐 일인지 옷을 벗어 버리고 싶었어요.I had not once thought about going into the sea since I came here, but at this moment, for some reason, I wanted to remove my clothes.This sentence shows how to use 순간 to describe a specific moment in a narrative.Tatoeba #1533361 by mysonhs, translation #1244992 by Scott
- 그 영화의 장면은 진정한 감동을 주었어요.The moment in the movie provided a genuine emotional impact.
- 정말 특별한 순간이었어!It was a truly special moment!
- 찰나의 순간이었어요.chalna-ui sungan-ieosseoyo.It was a split second.
Example conversation
Dohyun and Jieun are talking about a beautiful sunset.
- 도현 Do-hyeon지금 이 순간이 너무 아름다워요.jigeum i sungani neomu areumdawoyo.This moment right now is so beautiful.
- 지은 Ji-eun맞아요, 지은도 그렇게 생각해요.majayo, jieun-do geureoke saenggakhaeyo.You're right, Jieun thinks so too.
- 도현 Do-hyeon이 순간을 기억하고 싶어요.i sunganeul gieokhago sipeoyo.I want to remember this moment.
- 지은 Ji-eun사진으로 남겨 두면 좋겠네요.sajineuro namgye dumyeon joketneyo.It would be great to keep it as a photo.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “moment” translations and entries 순간, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries 순간, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
