단초
단초 in 30 Sekunden
- A formal word for 'first clue' or 'starting point'.
- Derived from the Hanja for 'edge' and 'thread'.
- Commonly used in news, crime investigations, and academic contexts.
- Pair with '제공하다' (provide) or '되다' (become).
The Korean word 단초 (dan-cho) is a sophisticated noun that translates most accurately to the 'first clue,' 'starting point,' or 'lead' of a complex situation. While English speakers might use 'hint' or 'clue' in everyday conversation, 단초 carries a weight of formality and precision, often used in academic, journalistic, or investigative contexts to describe the very moment or piece of evidence that allows a mystery to begin unraveling or a new phase of history to commence.
- Etymological Root
- The term comes from the Hanja characters 端 (단 - end/edge) and 緖 (초 - beginning of a thread). It literally refers to the tiny, loose end of a thread on a silk cocoon. If you find that specific end, you can unravel the entire cocoon. In modern usage, this metaphor extends to finding the 'thread' that unspools a complex problem or a massive event.
- Primary Usage Domains
- You will most frequently encounter this word in news reports regarding criminal investigations, economic shifts, or diplomatic breakthroughs. For instance, a small receipt found at a crime scene might be the 단초 for solving a murder. Similarly, a minor policy change might be the 단초 for a nationwide economic recovery.
그의 작은 실수가 사건 해결의 단초가 되었습니다. (His small mistake became the clue/starting point for solving the case.)
In a broader sense, 단초 is used when discussing the origins of social movements or historical conflicts. It implies that the event didn't just happen out of nowhere; there was a specific, perhaps small, initial trigger that set everything in motion. Unlike '시작' (beginning), which is general, 단초 emphasizes the functional role of that beginning in leading to a larger understanding or result.
이번 회담이 평화 정착의 단초를 마련하기를 바랍니다. (I hope this meeting provides the starting point for establishing peace.)
The word also appears in scientific research. When a scientist discovers a specific protein behavior that could lead to a cure for a disease, they describe that discovery as a 단초. It represents the 'in'—the opening that makes further progress possible. It is the spark that precedes the fire, the first domino that falls.
연구팀은 노화 방지의 단초를 발견했다고 발표했습니다. (The research team announced they have found the key/lead to anti-aging.)
- Collocation Focus
- Commonly paired with verbs like 제공하다 (to provide), 마련하다 (to prepare/establish), or 열다 (to open). For example, '단초를 제공하다' is the standard way to say something provided the initial lead for a situation.
그의 발언이 논란의 단초를 제공했습니다. (His remarks provided the starting point/cause for the controversy.)
In summary, 단초 is a word that looks for the 'why' and the 'how' behind the beginning of something significant. It is not just about time (when something started), but about the causal link (what made it start or what allows us to understand it). Mastering this word will significantly elevate your Korean proficiency to a level where you can engage with high-level media and professional literature.
우리는 대화의 단초를 찾기 위해 노력하고 있습니다. (We are trying to find a starting point for dialogue.)
Using 단초 (dan-cho) correctly requires understanding its grammatical environment. It is almost always a noun that functions as the object of a verb or the subject of a clause that describes a causal relationship. Because it is a B2-level word, the sentences it appears in are often complex, involving subordinate clauses and formal endings.
- Pattern 1: [Noun] + 의 단초가 되다
- This is the most common pattern, meaning 'to become the starting point/lead of [Noun].' It links a specific action or event to a larger consequence.
이 작은 발견이 암 치료의 단초가 되기를 바랍니다. (I hope this small discovery becomes the starting point for cancer treatment.)
In this pattern, the 'Noun' is usually the end goal or the problem being solved. Note how the particle '-가' is used with '되다' (to become). This structure is perfect for expressing hopes, predictions, or historical analyses.
- Pattern 2: [Noun] + 의 단초를 제공하다
- Meaning 'to provide the lead/clue for [Noun].' This is often used when an action by one party triggers a response or an investigation by another.
정부의 정책 실패가 시위의 단초를 제공했습니다. (The government's policy failure provided the trigger/starting point for the protests.)
This pattern is frequently found in news headlines where accountability is being discussed. It highlights the 'source' of a current situation.
- Pattern 3: 단초를 찾다 / 발견하다
- Meaning 'to find/discover a clue or lead.' This is the investigative use of the word.
경찰은 현장에서 범인을 잡을 수 있는 단초를 찾았습니다. (The police found a clue at the scene that could catch the culprit.)
Another sophisticated use is '단초를 마련하다' (to prepare/set up the starting point). This implies a deliberate effort to create a foundation for future progress, especially in diplomacy or business negotiations.
두 나라는 경제 협력의 단초를 마련하기 위해 협약을 체결했습니다. (The two countries signed an agreement to establish a starting point for economic cooperation.)
Finally, consider the negative context. '단초가 보이지 않는다' (No lead is visible) is a common way to express frustration in a stagnant investigation or a dead-end research project. It suggests that despite efforts, the 'beginning of the thread' remains hidden.
수사가 한 달째 진행 중이지만 아직 아무런 단초도 찾지 못했습니다. (The investigation has been ongoing for a month, but we still haven't found any leads.)
As you can see, the word is versatile within formal structures. It transitions smoothly between being a 'key to a solution' and a 'trigger for a problem,' depending on the surrounding nouns and verbs.
In South Korea, 단초 (dan-cho) is a word that signals 'serious information follows.' You are unlikely to hear it while ordering coffee or chatting with friends about the weather. Instead, it lives in the professional and intellectual spheres of Korean life.
- Evening News and Investigative Journalism
- If you watch 'SBS News' or 'JTBC Newsroom,' you will hear this word almost daily. News anchors use it to describe the beginning of political scandals or the first piece of evidence in a high-profile criminal case. It adds a layer of investigative rigor to the reporting.
뉴스 리포트: "이번 검찰 수사의 단초는 내부 고발자의 제보였습니다." (News Report: "The starting point of this prosecution investigation was a whistleblower's report.")
In such contexts, the word emphasizes that without that specific 'first thread,' the entire investigation would never have started. It highlights the importance of the whistleblower or the specific document found.
- Courtrooms and Legal Proceedings
- Lawyers and judges use 단초 to discuss the admissibility of evidence or the origin of a legal dispute. If a search warrant was obtained based on a specific tip, that tip is the 단초 for the search. In legal dramas like 'Stranger' (비밀의 숲), you'll hear this word frequently as characters piece together complex conspiracies.
변호사: "피고인의 알리바이를 깰 단초가 CCTV 영상에 담겨 있습니다." (Lawyer: "The clue to break the defendant's alibi is contained in the CCTV footage.")
Beyond the law, you will find 단초 in academic lectures and historical documentaries. Historians use it to identify the 'spark' of a revolution or the 'origin' of a cultural shift. It helps them move beyond 'this happened then' to 'this was the specific catalyst that led to everything else.'
역사학자: "이 사건은 3·1 운동의 중요한 단초가 되었습니다." (Historian: "This event became an important starting point/catalyst for the March 1st Movement.")
In business settings, particularly in strategic planning meetings, a manager might ask for a 단초 to solve a market entry problem. It implies they aren't looking for the whole solution yet, just the first logical step or insight to begin the process.
팀장: "신규 시장 진출을 위한 단초를 마련하는 것이 이번 분기의 목표입니다." (Team Leader: "Establishing a starting point for entering the new market is this quarter's goal.")
- Cultural Nuance
- Koreans value the 'beginning' (시작) greatly, but 단초 represents a more analytical view of a beginning. It suggests that if you understand the start, you can control or understand the end. It reflects a culture that values deep-rooted causes and systemic understanding.
In summary, if you are reading a newspaper, watching a documentary, or sitting in a high-level corporate meeting in Korea, 단초 will be the word used to pinpoint the genesis of any significant development.
Because 단초 (dan-cho) is a high-level word, learners often make mistakes regarding its register (formality level) and its specific nuance compared to similar words. Understanding these pitfalls will help you use the word naturally.
- Mistake 1: Using it in casual, everyday speech
- You wouldn't say to a friend, "Give me a 단초 for this riddle!" This sounds incredibly stiff and awkward, like using 'The genesis of my hunger' instead of 'I'm starting to get hungry.' In casual settings, '힌트' (hint) or '실마리' (clue) is much better.
❌ 어제 잃어버린 열쇠의 단초를 찾았어? (Incorrect/Awkward)
✅ 어제 잃어버린 열쇠 찾을 실마리라도 좀 찾았어? (Correct: Did you find any clues to find the key?)
The word 실마리 is the native Korean equivalent and is much softer. Use 단초 for 'the origins of a war,' but use 실마리 for 'clues to a lost wallet.'
- Mistake 2: Confusing '단초' with '시작' (Start)
- While both words relate to the beginning, '시작' is a general point in time. 단초 is a functional beginning. You can't say '영화의 단초' (the beginning of the movie) unless you mean a specific scene that provided the clue to the entire plot. Usually, you just say '영화의 시작.'
❌ 수업의 단초에 선생님이 출석을 불렀어요. (Incorrect)
✅ 수업 시작할 때 선생님이 출석을 불렀어요. (Correct: The teacher took attendance at the start of class.)
- Mistake 3: Over-relying on English 'Clue'
- English speakers often use 'clue' for anything they don't know. 'I have no clue!' In Korean, you would say '전혀 모르겠어요' or '깜깜해요.' You would NEVER say '단초가 없어요' to mean 'I don't know.' '단초가 없다' specifically means 'The investigation has no leads.'
❌ 그가 어디 있는지 단초가 없어요. (Incorrect for 'I have no clue')
✅ 그가 어디 있는지 전혀 모르겠어요. (Correct: I have no idea where he is.)
Finally, remember that 단초 is almost always used with abstract concepts like 'peace,' 'conflict,' 'investigation,' or 'discovery.' Using it for physical objects like 'the start of a road' or 'the start of a book' is technically incorrect and will confuse native speakers.
To avoid these mistakes, always ask yourself: 'Is this a formal situation?' and 'Am I talking about a clue that unravels a bigger problem?' If the answer to both is yes, 단초 is your best friend.
To truly master 단초 (dan-cho), you must see how it sits in the ecosystem of Korean words for 'beginning' and 'clue.' Each has a specific flavor and use case.
- 단초 vs. 실마리 (Sil-ma-ri)
- 단초: Formal, Sino-Korean, used in news, reports, and academic writing. Focuses on the logical starting point.
실마리: Native Korean, used in stories, novels, and daily life. It literally means 'the end of a thread' as well, but feels more descriptive and emotional.
"사건의 단초를 찾았다" vs "이야기의 실마리를 풀다" (Found the lead of the case vs Unraveled the thread of the story.)
- 단초 vs. 계기 (Gye-gi)
- 단초: The first clue or lead that allows solving a problem. It's about 'finding' something.
계기: An opportunity or motive that causes a change. It's about 'why' someone decided to do something.
"한국에 오게 된 계기가 뭐예요?" (What was the motive/reason you came to Korea?) - You wouldn't use '단초' here.
- 단초 vs. 발단 (Bal-dan)
- 단초: The lead that lets you *understand* or *start* a solution.
발단: The actual start of a conflict or a story's plot. '발단' is often used when a fight starts.
"말다툼이 싸움의 발단이 되었다." (The verbal argument was the trigger/outset of the fight.)
Other alternatives include 힌트 (hint), which is a loanword used for games and tests, and 단서 (dan-seo). 단서 (clue/evidence) is extremely close to 단초, but 단서 is more about a concrete piece of evidence (like a fingerprint), while 단초 is more about the 'starting point' of the investigation itself.
Choosing the right word shows your listener that you understand the subtle social and logical structures of the Korean language. If you're writing a report for a Korean boss, using 단초 instead of 시작 or 힌트 will immediately signal a high level of education and professionalism.
How Formal Is It?
Wusstest du?
Finding the '단초' of a silk cocoon was a highly skilled task in ancient times; if you missed it, the silk would be ruined. This is why the word implies a 'crucial' first step.
Aussprachehilfe
- Pronouncing '단' as 'dawn' instead of 'dahn'.
- Failing to aspirate the '초', making it sound like '조' (jo).
- Over-stressing the first syllable.
Schwierigkeitsgrad
Common in news and books, but requires knowledge of Hanja-based nuances.
Hard to use naturally without sounding overly formal or stiff.
Rarely used in daily conversation; mostly for professional presentations.
Essential for understanding news broadcasts and documentaries.
Was du als Nächstes lernen solltest
Voraussetzungen
Als Nächstes lernen
Fortgeschritten
Wichtige Grammatik
Noun + 가/이 되다 (To become ~)
이것이 단초가 되었습니다.
Noun + 을/를 제공하다 (To provide ~)
단초를 제공했습니다.
Noun + 을/를 위해 (In order to ~)
단초를 찾기 위해 노력했습니다.
Noun + 의 (Possessive particle)
사건의 단초
Noun + 도 (Even/Also)
아무런 단초도 찾지 못했다.
Beispiele nach Niveau
이것은 작은 단초입니다.
This is a small clue/starting point.
이것 (this) + 은 (topic) + 작은 (small) + 단초 (clue) + 입니다 (is).
단초를 찾아요.
I find a clue.
단초 (clue) + 를 (object) + 찾아요 (find).
그것이 단초가 되었어요.
That became the starting point.
그것 (that) + 이 (subject) + 단초 (starting point) + 가 (particle) + 되었어요 (became).
단초가 어디에 있어요?
Where is the clue?
단초 (clue) + 가 (subject) + 어디 (where) + 에 (at) + 있어요 (is)?
우리는 단초가 필요해요.
We need a clue.
우리 (we) + 는 (topic) + 단초 (clue) + 가 (subject) + 필요해요 (need).
단초는 중요해요.
The starting point is important.
단초 (starting point) + 는 (topic) + 중요해요 (is important).
작은 단초가 있어요.
There is a small clue.
작은 (small) + 단초 (clue) + 가 (subject) + 있어요 (there is).
단초를 보세요.
Look at the clue.
단초 (clue) + 를 (object) + 보세요 (look).
경찰이 사건의 단초를 찾고 있어요.
The police are looking for a lead in the case.
경찰 (police) + 이 (subject) + 사건의 (case's) + 단초 (lead) + 를 (object) + 찾고 있어요 (are looking for).
그의 말은 문제 해결의 단초가 되었어요.
His words became the starting point for solving the problem.
그의 (his) + 말 (words) + 은 (topic) + 문제 해결의 (of problem solving) + 단초 (starting point) + 가 되었어요 (became).
우리는 대화의 단초를 마련했습니다.
We prepared a starting point for dialogue.
우리 (we) + 는 (topic) + 대화의 (of dialogue) + 단초 (starting point) + 를 (object) + 마련했습니다 (prepared).
이 책은 연구의 단초를 제공합니다.
This book provides a lead for the research.
이 (this) + 책 (book) + 은 (topic) + 연구의 (of research) + 단초 (lead) + 를 (object) + 제공합니다 (provides).
작은 실수가 큰 싸움의 단초가 되었어요.
A small mistake became the trigger for a big fight.
작은 (small) + 실수 (mistake) + 가 (subject) + 큰 (big) + 싸움의 (of fight) + 단초가 되었어요 (became the trigger).
아직 아무런 단초도 찾지 못했습니다.
I haven't found any leads yet.
아직 (yet) + 아무런 (any) + 단초 (lead) + 도 (even) + 찾지 못했습니다 (could not find).
이 사진이 단초가 될 수 있어요.
This photo can be a clue.
이 (this) + 사진 (photo) + 이 (subject) + 단초 (clue) + 가 될 수 있어요 (can become).
단초를 찾아서 다행이에요.
I'm glad we found a lead.
단초 (lead) + 를 (object) + 찾아서 (because we found) + 다행이에요 (it's a relief).
그 발견은 과학계에 새로운 단초를 던져주었습니다.
That discovery gave a new lead to the scientific community.
과학계 (scientific world) + 에 (to) + 새로운 (new) + 단초 (lead) + 를 던져주었습니다 (threw/gave).
정부의 발표가 논란의 단초를 제공했습니다.
The government's announcement provided the starting point for the controversy.
정부의 (government's) + 발표 (announcement) + 가 (subject) + 논란의 (of controversy) + 단초 (starting point) + 를 제공했습니다 (provided).
우리는 평화 협상의 단초를 찾기 위해 모였습니다.
We gathered to find a starting point for peace negotiations.
평화 협상의 (of peace negotiation) + 단초 (starting point) + 를 찾기 위해 (in order to find) + 모였습니다 (gathered).
이 사건은 역사적 변화의 단초가 되었습니다.
This incident became the starting point of historical change.
이 (this) + 사건 (incident) + 은 (topic) + 역사적 (historical) + 변화의 (of change) + 단초가 되었습니다 (became the starting point).
그의 행동이 오해의 단초를 만들었습니다.
His actions created the starting point for a misunderstanding.
그의 (his) + 행동 (action) + 이 (subject) + 오해의 (of misunderstanding) + 단초 (starting point) + 를 만들었습니다 (made).
새로운 증거가 수사의 결정적인 단초가 되었습니다.
New evidence became a decisive lead in the investigation.
새로운 (new) + 증거 (evidence) + 가 (subject) + 수사의 (of investigation) + 결정적인 (decisive) + 단초가 되었습니다 (became the lead).
우리는 성공의 단초를 이미 발견했습니다.
We have already discovered the starting point for success.
성공의 (of success) + 단초 (starting point) + 를 (object) + 이미 (already) + 발견했습니다 (discovered).
단초가 보이지 않아 수사가 난항을 겪고 있습니다.
The investigation is facing difficulties because no leads are visible.
단초 (lead) + 가 (subject) + 보이지 않아 (because it doesn't show) + 수사 (investigation) + 가 난항을 겪고 있습니다 (is experiencing hard sailing).
이번 회담이 관계 개선의 중요한 단초를 마련하기를 기대합니다.
I look forward to this meeting establishing an important starting point for improving relations.
관계 개선 (relationship improvement) + 의 (of) + 중요한 (important) + 단초 (starting point) + 를 마련하기를 (to prepare) + 기대합니다 (expect).
그의 작은 의구심이 거대한 비리를 밝히는 단초가 되었다.
His small suspicion became the lead to uncovering a massive corruption.
의구심 (suspicion) + 이 (subject) + 거대한 (massive) + 비리 (corruption) + 를 밝히는 (uncovering) + 단초가 되었다 (became the lead).
기술 혁신은 사회 구조 변화의 단초를 제공할 것입니다.
Technological innovation will provide the starting point for changes in social structure.
기술 혁신 (tech innovation) + 은 (topic) + 사회 구조 (social structure) + 변화의 (of change) + 단초 (starting point) + 를 제공할 것입니다 (will provide).
검찰은 압수수색을 통해 범죄의 단초를 확보했습니다.
The prosecution secured a lead on the crime through a search and seizure.
압수수색 (search and seizure) + 을 통해 (through) + 범죄 (crime) + 의 (of) + 단초 (lead) + 를 확보했습니다 (secured).
이 연구 결과는 우주 탄생의 단초를 설명해 줍니다.
This research result explains the starting point of the birth of the universe.
우주 탄생 (birth of universe) + 의 (of) + 단초 (starting point) + 를 (object) + 설명해 줍니다 (explains).
사소한 말다툼이 비극적인 사건의 단초가 되기도 합니다.
A minor argument sometimes becomes the trigger for a tragic event.
사소한 (trivial) + 말다툼 (argument) + 이 (subject) + 비극적인 (tragic) + 사건의 (of incident) + 단초가 되기도 합니다 (also becomes the trigger).
우리는 경제 위기를 극복할 단초를 찾아야 합니다.
We must find a way/starting point to overcome the economic crisis.
경제 위기 (economic crisis) + 를 (object) + 극복할 (to overcome) + 단초 (starting point/lead) + 를 찾아야 합니다 (must find).
그의 침묵이 오히려 의혹의 단초를 제공했다.
His silence rather provided a starting point for suspicion.
침묵 (silence) + 이 (subject) + 오히려 (rather) + 의혹 (suspicion) + 의 (of) + 단초 (starting point) + 를 제공했다 (provided).
언어의 기원을 연구하는 것은 인류 문명의 단초를 파악하는 일이다.
Studying the origin of language is a matter of grasping the starting point of human civilization.
인류 문명 (human civilization) + 의 (of) + 단초 (starting point) + 를 파악하는 (grasping) + 일이다 (is a task).
현대 철학의 단초는 데카르트의 회의론에서 찾을 수 있습니다.
The starting point of modern philosophy can be found in Descartes' skepticism.
현대 철학 (modern philosophy) + 의 (of) + 단초 (starting point) + 는 (topic) + ~에서 찾을 수 있습니다 (can be found in).
이번 법안은 교육 개혁의 새로운 단초를 제시하고 있습니다.
This bill presents a new starting point for educational reform.
법안 (bill) + 은 (topic) + 교육 개혁 (educational reform) + 의 (of) + 새로운 (new) + 단초 (starting point) + 를 제시하고 있습니다 (is presenting).
유전자 분석 기술은 난치병 치료의 획기적인 단초가 될 것입니다.
Genetic analysis technology will be a groundbreaking lead for treating incurable diseases.
유전자 분석 기술 (gene analysis tech) + 은 (topic) + 난치병 (incurable disease) + 치료 (treatment) + 의 (of) + 획기적인 (groundbreaking) + 단초가 될 것입니다 (will become the lead).
그의 시는 한국 근대 문학의 단초를 열었다고 평가받습니다.
His poetry is evaluated as having opened the starting point of modern Korean literature.
한국 근대 문학 (modern Korean literature) + 의 (of) + 단초 (starting point) + 를 열었다고 (that it opened) + 평가받습니다 (is evaluated).
작은 생태계의 변화가 기후 위기의 단초임을 잊어서는 안 됩니다.
We must not forget that small changes in the ecosystem are the starting point of the climate crisis.
작은 생태계의 변화 (small ecosystem change) + 가 (subject) + 기후 위기 (climate crisis) + 의 (of) + 단초임 (the fact that it is the starting point) + 을 잊어서는 안 됩니다 (must not forget).
이번 실험 결과는 양자 역학 이해의 중요한 단초를 제공합니다.
This experimental result provides an important lead for understanding quantum mechanics.
양자 역학 (quantum mechanics) + 이해의 (of understanding) + 중요한 (important) + 단초 (lead) + 를 제공합니다 (provides).
우리는 과거의 기록에서 미래를 설계할 단초를 찾아야 한다.
We must find the starting point to design the future from records of the past.
과거의 기록 (records of the past) + 에서 (from) + 미래를 설계할 (to design the future) + 단초 (starting point) + 를 찾아야 한다 (must find).
역사적 필연성은 종종 우연한 사건의 단초에서 비롯되기도 한다.
Historical inevitability often originates from the starting point of accidental events.
역사적 필연성 (historical inevitability) + 은 (topic) + 우연한 사건 (accidental event) + 의 (of) + 단초 (starting point) + 에서 비롯되기도 한다 (also originates from).
그 철학자의 고뇌는 인간 존재의 근원적 단초를 탐구하는 과정이었다.
That philosopher's anguish was a process of exploring the fundamental starting point of human existence.
고뇌 (anguish) + 는 (topic) + 인간 존재 (human existence) + 의 (of) + 근원적 (fundamental) + 단초 (starting point) + 를 탐구하는 (exploring) + 과정이었다 (was a process).
문화적 융합은 갈등의 단초가 되기도 하지만, 새로운 창조의 원동력이 되기도 한다.
Cultural fusion sometimes becomes a starting point for conflict, but also a driving force for new creation.
문화적 융합 (cultural fusion) + 은 (topic) + 갈등의 단초 (starting point of conflict) + 가 되기도 하지만 (while it also becomes), ~ 원동력이 되기도 한다 (it also becomes the driving force).
미세한 초기 조건의 차이가 거대한 기상 변화의 단초가 되는 '나비 효과'.
The 'Butterfly Effect' where minute differences in initial conditions become the starting point for massive weather changes.
미세한 (minute) + 초기 조건 (initial conditions) + 의 (of) + 차이 (difference) + 가 (subject) + 거대한 (massive) + 기상 변화 (weather change) + 의 (of) + 단초가 되는 (becoming the starting point).
이 논문은 포스트모더니즘 논의의 중요한 비판적 단초를 제공하고 있다.
This paper provides an important critical starting point for discussions on postmodernism.
논문 (paper) + 은 (topic) + 포스트모더니즘 논의 (postmodernism discussion) + 의 (of) + 비판적 (critical) + 단초 (starting point) + 를 제공하고 있다 (is providing).
국가 간의 작은 신뢰 구축이 항구적 평화의 단초가 될 수 있음을 명심해야 한다.
One must keep in mind that building small trust between nations can be the starting point for permanent peace.
신뢰 구축 (trust building) + 이 (subject) + 항구적 평화 (permanent peace) + 의 (of) + 단초가 될 수 있음 (the fact that it can be the starting point) + 을 명심해야 한다 (must keep in mind).
그의 문학 세계를 관통하는 단초는 상실과 회복의 변증법이다.
The starting point/thread that runs through his literary world is the dialectic of loss and recovery.
문학 세계 (literary world) + 를 (object) + 관통하는 (running through) + 단초 (thread/starting point) + 는 (topic) + 상실과 회복 (loss and recovery) + 의 (of) + 변증법이다 (is the dialectic).
우리는 우주론적 단초를 찾기 위해 입자 가속기 실험에 매진하고 있다.
We are striving in particle accelerator experiments to find the cosmological starting point.
우주론적 (cosmological) + 단초 (starting point) + 를 찾기 위해 (in order to find) + 입자 가속기 (particle accelerator) + 실험 (experiment) + 에 매진하고 있다 (is striving in).
Häufige Kollokationen
Häufige Phrasen
— The lead or starting point of a criminal case.
사건의 단초는 CCTV 영상이었습니다.
— To find the first clue to solve a problem.
드디어 해결의 단초를 찾은 것 같아요.
— The starting point for establishing peace.
이번 회담이 평화의 단초가 되길 바랍니다.
— To trigger or cause a controversy.
정치인의 발언이 논란의 단초를 제공했다.
— The first step or lead toward success.
작은 습관이 성공의 단초가 됩니다.
— The beginning or trigger of a historical event.
이 조약은 역사의 단초가 되었습니다.
— The starting point of distrust.
거짓말이 불신의 단초가 되었습니다.
— The opening for a conversation.
우리는 대화의 단초를 찾으려 노력했다.
— The lead for a police investigation.
수사의 단초를 확보하는 것이 급선무입니다.
— The catalyst for development.
신기술은 경제 발전의 단초를 제공한다.
Wird oft verwechselt mit
실마리 is native Korean and more common in literature/daily life; 단초 is Sino-Korean and more formal.
단서 is a specific piece of evidence; 단초 is the broader 'starting point' or 'lead'.
계기 is about personal motivation or opportunity; 단초 is about logical/causal beginnings.
Redewendungen & Ausdrücke
— To open up a new beginning or opportunity.
그는 새로운 학문의 단초를 열었다.
Formal— To see a glimmer of a solution or a lead.
이제야 해결의 단초가 보이기 시작했다.
Neutral— To grasp the first lead or understanding.
수사의 단초를 잡는 데 성공했다.
Neutral— To provide a clue or prompt for thought.
그의 질문은 우리에게 새로운 단초를 던졌다.
Formal— To follow the first lead (rarely used, more literary).
진실을 향한 단초를 밟아 나갔다.
Literary— For a lead or starting point to disappear.
수사의 단초가 끊겨 막막한 상황이다.
Neutral— To be the cause or trigger for something.
사소한 오해가 결별의 단초를 제공했다.
Neutral— To set the stage for something to begin.
화해의 단초를 마련하기 위해 만났다.
Formal— To search for a clue.
미궁에 빠진 사건의 단초를 찾고 있다.
Neutral— To serve as the starting point.
이 발견이 인류 구원의 단초가 되길.
FormalLeicht verwechselbar
Both mean 'start'.
시작 is general time; 단초 is the specific functional or causal lead.
수업 시작 (O), 수업 단초 (X)
Both relate to origins.
발단 is usually for conflicts or plots; 단초 is for solutions or investigations.
싸움의 발단 (O), 해결의 단초 (O)
Both can explain 'why'.
이유 is the reason/motive; 단초 is the physical or logical starting point.
늦은 이유 (O), 늦은 단초 (X)
Both mean 'clue'.
힌트 is a loanword for puzzles/tests; 단초 is for serious investigations/research.
퀴즈 힌트 (O), 퀴즈 단초 (X)
Both mean 'origin'.
기원 is the ancient historical origin; 단초 is the immediate lead or trigger.
인류의 기원 (O), 인류의 단초 (X - unless specific)
Satzmuster
N이/가 단초예요.
그게 단초예요.
N의 단초를 찾았어요.
사건의 단초를 찾았어요.
N이/가 N의 단초가 되었다.
작은 실수가 사고의 단초가 되었다.
N의 단초를 제공하다.
논란의 단초를 제공했다.
N을/를 위한 단초를 마련하다.
평화를 위한 단초를 마련하다.
N의 단초를 제시하다.
연구의 새로운 단초를 제시하다.
N의 단초에서 비롯되다.
우연한 단초에서 비롯된 결과다.
N의 단초를 포착하다.
시대 변화의 단초를 포착하다.
Wortfamilie
Substantive
Verben
Adjektive
Verwandt
So verwendest du es
High in written/formal Korean, low in spoken/casual Korean.
-
수업의 단초에...
→
수업 시작에...
단초 is for leads/clues, not for general points in time like the start of a class.
-
단초가 없어요 (to mean 'I don't know')
→
전혀 모르겠어요
단초가 없다 specifically means an investigation has no leads.
-
친구야, 단초 좀 줘.
→
친구야, 힌트 좀 줘.
단초 is too formal for casual conversation with friends.
-
길의 단초
→
길의 시작점
단초 is for abstract concepts, not physical locations like a road.
-
단초를 먹다
→
단초를 찾다
단초 is a noun that pairs with verbs like 'find' or 'provide', never 'eat'.
Tipps
Formal Contexts
Always use '단초' in formal reports or academic essays to sound more professional.
Pair with '되다'
The phrase '~의 단초가 되다' is the most natural way to use this word in a sentence.
Not just a 'start'
Remember that '단초' implies a causal link. It's the start that leads to something else.
News Vocabulary
When you hear '단초' on the news, pay attention—it's the most important part of the story's origin.
Avoid Plurals
Even if there are many clues, '단초' is usually used in the singular to represent the overall 'lead'.
Hanja Power
Learning the Hanja 端 (dan) and 緖 (cho) will help you remember the 'thread' metaphor.
Interviews
Use '단초' to describe your problem-solving process during professional interviews.
Literature
In novels, '단초' is often used to describe the moment the mystery starts to unravel.
Particle Choice
Use '를' with '제공하다' and '가' with '되다'.
Analytical Mindset
Using '단초' shows you are thinking about the deep-rooted causes of a situation.
Einprägen
Eselsbrücke
Think of 'Dan' as 'Done' and 'Cho' as 'Chomp'. You need the first clue (단초) before you can get the job 'Done' and 'Chomp' down on the solution.
Visuelle Assoziation
Imagine a detective holding a single glowing thread that leads through a dark maze to a treasure chest.
Word Web
Herausforderung
Try to use '단초' in a sentence about a historical event you know well, like the start of World War II or the invention of the internet.
Wortherkunft
Derived from Sino-Korean Hanja: 端 (단) meaning 'end' or 'edge' and 緖 (초) meaning 'beginning of a thread'.
Ursprüngliche Bedeutung: The loose end of a thread on a silk cocoon, which is necessary to find before the silk can be unwound.
Sino-Korean (Hanja-based vocabulary).Kultureller Kontext
No specific sensitivities; it is a purely formal and analytical term.
Equivalent to 'the first lead' or 'the genesis of the investigation'.
Im Alltag üben
Kontexte aus dem Alltag
Criminal Investigation
- 수사의 단초
- 결정적인 단초
- 단초를 찾다
- 단초를 확보하다
Diplomacy/Politics
- 대화의 단초
- 평화의 단초
- 관계 개선의 단초
- 논란의 단초
Scientific Research
- 연구의 단초
- 발견의 단초
- 새로운 단초를 제시하다
- 단초를 발견하다
History
- 변화의 단초
- 사건의 단초
- 역사적 단초
- 단초가 된 사건
Business
- 성공의 단초
- 혁신의 단초
- 단초를 마련하다
- 시장의 단초
Gesprächseinstiege
"이번 사건의 단초가 무엇이라고 생각하시나요?"
"우리가 대화를 시작할 단초를 어떻게 찾을 수 있을까요?"
"당신의 인생에서 성공의 단초가 된 순간은 언제인가요?"
"이 연구가 새로운 발견의 단초가 될 수 있을까요?"
"두 나라 사이의 갈등의 단초는 무엇이었나요?"
Tagebuch-Impulse
오늘 내가 배운 것 중에서 미래의 성공을 위한 단초가 될 만한 것이 있었나요?
친구와의 오해가 생겼을 때, 그 오해의 단초는 무엇이었는지 분석해 보세요.
세상을 바꿀 수 있는 작은 단초 하나를 제안해 본다면 무엇일까요?
최근 뉴스에서 본 사건의 단초가 무엇이었는지 적어 보세요.
나의 꿈을 이루기 위해 오늘 마련한 단초는 무엇인가요?
Häufig gestellte Fragen
10 FragenIt is generally too formal for casual chat. If you use it, you might sound like a news reporter or a professor. Use '실마리' or '힌트' instead.
It is neutral. You can have a '단초' for peace (positive) or a '단초' for a controversy (negative).
'단서' usually refers to a specific piece of evidence (like a fingerprint). '단초' is the broader starting point or the first lead that opens up the investigation.
It is written as 端緖. 端 means 'end' and 緖 means 'thread'.
Yes, it frequently appears in high-level reading comprehension passages in the Korean language section.
Only if you mean a specific clue in the movie that explains the whole plot. If you just mean the beginning of the movie, use '영화의 시작'.
Both are used. '단초를 제공하다' (provide a lead) and '단초가 되다' (become a lead).
Yes, especially in strategy meetings when identifying how to start a new project or solve a market problem.
The closest native word is '실마리'.
No, it is almost exclusively used for abstract concepts like investigations, problems, and events.
Teste dich selbst 185 Fragen
'사건의 단초'를 사용하여 한 문장을 쓰세요.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
'단초가 되다'를 사용하여 한 문장을 쓰세요.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
평화와 단초를 연결하여 문장을 만드세요.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
논란과 단초를 연결하여 문장을 만드세요.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
'단초를 찾다'를 사용하여 경찰에 대한 문장을 쓰세요.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
당신의 성공에 대한 '단초'는 무엇이었나요? (한국어로 쓰세요)
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
'단초를 마련하다'를 사용하여 비즈니스 상황 문장을 쓰세요.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
오해의 시작을 '단초'를 사용하여 설명하세요.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
'단초'와 '실마리'를 한 문장에 넣어 보세요.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
역사적 사건의 시작을 '단초'로 표현하세요.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
'단초가 보이지 않는다'를 사용하여 절망적인 상황을 쓰세요.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
'단초를 확보하다'를 사용하여 문장을 쓰세요.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
미래의 변화를 '단초'로 예측하는 문장을 쓰세요.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
'단초를 제시하다'를 사용하여 연구 문장을 쓰세요.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
'단초'의 한자 뜻을 설명하는 문장을 쓰세요.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
자신의 한국어 공부의 '단초'가 무엇이었는지 쓰세요.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
'단초를 열다'를 사용하여 문장을 쓰세요.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
비극의 시작을 '단초'로 표현하세요.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
'단초를 포착하다'를 사용하여 문장을 쓰세요.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
'단초'를 사용하여 친구에게 조언하는 문장을 쓰세요 (격식 있게).
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
'단초'를 넣어 자기소개를 해보세요 (격식 있게).
Read this aloud:
Du hast gesagt:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
뉴스 앵커처럼 '단초'가 들어간 리포트를 한 문장 말해보세요.
Read this aloud:
Du hast gesagt:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
친구에게 '단초'의 뜻을 한국어로 설명해 보세요.
Read this aloud:
Du hast gesagt:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
갈등 해결을 위한 제안을 '단초'를 넣어 말해보세요.
Read this aloud:
Du hast gesagt:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
역사 선생님처럼 '단초'를 사용해 보세요.
Read this aloud:
Du hast gesagt:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
성공 비결을 '단초'를 넣어 말해보세요.
Read this aloud:
Du hast gesagt:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
'단초'의 발음을 주의하며 3번 반복해 보세요.
Read this aloud:
Du hast gesagt:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
범인을 쫓는 형사처럼 말해보세요.
Read this aloud:
Du hast gesagt:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
연구 발표를 시작할 때 '단초'를 사용해 보세요.
Read this aloud:
Du hast gesagt:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
오해를 풀 때 '단초'를 사용해 보세요.
Read this aloud:
Du hast gesagt:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
미래 계획을 '단초'를 넣어 말해보세요.
Read this aloud:
Du hast gesagt:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
철학적인 질문을 해보세요.
Read this aloud:
Du hast gesagt:
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감동적인 연설을 해보세요.
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다음을 듣고 '단초'가 들어간 문장을 고르세요. (음성 가정)
다음 대화에서 화자가 단초를 찾은 곳은? [A: 범인을 어떻게 잡았어요? B: 쓰레기통에서 발견한 영수증이 단초가 되었죠.]
다음 뉴스 리포트의 핵심 단어는? [이번 수사는 내부 고발자의 제보를 단초로 시작되었습니다.]
다음을 듣고 문장을 완성하세요. [평화의 ____를 마련하다.]
화자의 감정은? [단초조차 보이지 않으니 정말 답답하네요.]
다음 중 '단초'의 발음이 정확한 것은? (음성 가정)
대화의 주제는? [A: 이번 신제품 개발의 단초가 뭐였죠? B: 소비자의 작은 불편함이었습니다.]
다음을 듣고 받아쓰세요. [이 발견이 연구의 단초가 되었습니다.]
뉴스에서 '단초'라는 말이 들리면 어떤 내용일 가능성이 높나요?
다음을 듣고 '단초'의 위치를 찾으세요. [우리는(1) 해결의(2) 단초를(3) 찾았다(4).]
다음 중 '단초'가 사용된 상황은? [A: 힌트 좀 줘. B: 사건의 단초를 제공했다.]
화자가 말하는 '단초'는 무엇인가요? [그의 어색한 웃음이 거짓말의 단초였어요.]
다음을 듣고 참/거짓을 판단하세요. [단초는 결과라는 뜻이다.]
다음을 듣고 '단초'와 함께 쓰인 동사를 고르세요. [논란의 단초를 제공했습니다.]
다음 문장의 의미를 파악하세요. [단초를 확보하는 것이 급선무입니다.]
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Summary
단초 (dan-cho) is a high-level noun used to identify the specific catalyst or first lead of a significant situation. For example, '사건의 단초를 찾다' means 'to find the lead of the case.'
- A formal word for 'first clue' or 'starting point'.
- Derived from the Hanja for 'edge' and 'thread'.
- Commonly used in news, crime investigations, and academic contexts.
- Pair with '제공하다' (provide) or '되다' (become).
Formal Contexts
Always use '단초' in formal reports or academic essays to sound more professional.
Pair with '되다'
The phrase '~의 단초가 되다' is the most natural way to use this word in a sentence.
Not just a 'start'
Remember that '단초' implies a causal link. It's the start that leads to something else.
News Vocabulary
When you hear '단초' on the news, pay attention—it's the most important part of the story's origin.
Beispiel
그의 발언이 이번 사건의 실마리를 풀 단초가 되었다.
Verwandte Inhalte
Mehr academic Wörter
입체적
B2Dreidimensional wirkend oder etwas aus mehreren Perspektiven betrachtend.
~에 관해
B1Ein Ausdruck, der 'über' oder 'betreffend' bedeutet. Er wird in formellen Kontexten verwendet, um ein Thema einzuleiten.
~에 대하여
A2Über oder bezüglich eines bestimmten Themas. 'Ich lerne über die koreanische Geschichte.'
~대해
A2Es bedeutet 'über' oder 'bezüglich'. Man verwendet es, um das Thema eines Gesprächs oder Gedankens anzugeben.
~에 관하여
A2Bezüglich oder über ein Thema. Wird in formalen Situationen wie Berichten oder Reden verwendet.
~에 대해(서)
A1Bezeichnet das Thema oder den Gegenstand einer Diskussion und bedeutet 'über' oder 'bezüglich'. Es wird häufig mit Verben des Sagens oder Denkens verwendet.
무엇보다
A2Vor allem; mehr als alles andere.
결석생
A2A student who is absent from class.
추상화하다
B2Abstrahieren: etwas theoretisch oder losgelöst von seiner physischen Realität betrachten.
추상
A2Abstraction; the quality of dealing with ideas rather than events.