Expression dictionary — full article
Starting Points & Range · "the initial part of N," "the beginning section of N," "the early phase of N."
The suffix -부 (部) is used to denote a section, part, or division of a larger entity. While '부' generally means 'part', when combined with certain nouns or prefixes, it specifically refers to the initial or beginning segment of that noun, effectively marking its starting point or early phase. This is particularly common with terms related to time, events, or narratives.
The suffix -부 is attached to nouns that represent a whole which can be conceptually divided. It is most frequently seen in compound nouns where the preceding noun or prefix indicates a specific temporal or structural position. For example, when combined with prefixes like 전- (前, meaning 'before' or 'front') or 초- (初, meaning 'beginning' or 'initial'), it forms words such as 전반부 (the first part/half) or 초반부 (the initial/early part). These terms are used to describe the commencement, opening stage, or early segment of a period, event, story, or game. It helps to break down a continuous or extended entity into manageable, sequential portions, with a particular focus on the start.
The suffix -부 simply attaches directly to the end of a noun or a prefix that functions as a noun modifier. There are no complex conjugation rules or changes based on the preceding sound.
The suffix -부 is part of a system of suffixes used to divide a whole into various sections. In addition to indicating the "starting point" with terms like 전반부 (first part) and 초반부 (initial part), it is also used to denote other sections: