Korean Dictionary
How to say "Fraction" in Korean
“Fraction” in Korean is 분수 (pronounced "Bunsu").
분수
Bunsu
Usage & Context
분수 means fraction in mathematics and is taught in Korean elementary schools. The word also means fountain in Korean making it a fun homonym. In everyday speech 분수를 알다 means to know one place or to be modest about one abilities.
Example Sentence
수학 시간에 분수를 배웠어요.
I learned about fractions in math class.
How to use 분수 naturally
Quick answer
The Korean word for “Fraction” is 분수, romanized as Bunsu.
Usage tip
Learn this word together with a complete Korean sentence. Meaning often depends on particles, politeness level, and word order.
Common mistake
Do not rely only on the English meaning. Read the Korean example sentence and notice the particles, word order, and politeness level around 분수.
Pronunciation Guide
분 (bun) sounds like "boon" in "moon." 수 (su) sounds like "soo" in "soon." Put them together as "Boon-soo," with even timing on both syllables.
More Example Sentences
Describing a park feature to a friend.
공원에 예쁜 분수가 있어요.
There's a beautiful fountain in the park.
A parent scolding a child for being arrogant.
자기 분수를 알아야지.
You should know your place.
Students discussing a difficult math problem.
이 문제는 분수 계산이 좀 복잡해요.
The fraction calculation in this problem is a bit complex.
Cultural Context
분수 is a fascinating homonym in Korean, meaning both 'fraction' (in math) and 'fountain.' Beyond these literal meanings, the phrase '분수를 알다' (bunsu-reul alda) is commonly used to mean 'to know one's place' or 'to be modest about one's abilities.' This idiom reflects a cultural emphasis on humility and understanding one's social standing, often heard in K-dramas or daily conversations when advising someone not to overstep.
Editorial note
We review entries like 분수 for pronunciation, example sentence fit, and learner mistakes so the page answers more than a direct dictionary lookup.
Reviewed by Min-jung Park, Korean Language Teacher. Updated May 31, 2026. See our editorial standards.
Common Phrases
분수를 알다.
To know one's place/limits.
분수 계산.
Fraction calculation.
음악 분수.
Musical fountain.
Related Expressions
분모
bunmo
denominator
분자
bunja
numerator
샘
saem
spring, fountain (natural)
겸손하다
gyeomsonhada
to be modest
More Numbers and Time Words
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