At the A1 level, '상관관계' is a very difficult word because it is abstract and formal. A1 learners usually focus on simple relationships like 'friend' (친구) or 'family' (가족). However, you can think of it as a fancy way of saying two things are 'together' or 'linked.' Even though you won't use this word yourself yet, you might see it in a title of a news video. Just remember: it means 'connection' between two things, like how 'eating a lot' and 'feeling full' are connected. At this stage, just recognize that '관계' means 'relationship.'
At the A2 level, you are starting to learn more nouns and how to connect sentences. '상관관계' is still advanced, but you might notice it in weather reports or simple health tips. For example, 'Weather and mood have a relationship.' You know the word '상관없어요' (It doesn't matter), which comes from the same root. While '상관없어요' means something is NOT related to you, '상관관계' is the noun for the relation itself. Try to recognize the '관계' (relationship) part of the word, which you already know from '인간관계' (human relationships).
At the B1 level, you are moving into intermediate topics like social issues and work. You should start recognizing '상관관계' in reading passages about health, environment, or economy. You can use it to describe simple trends. For instance, 'There is a relationship between price and quality.' Instead of just saying '관계가 있어요,' using '상관관계가 있어요' makes you sound more like an adult and a serious student of Korean. You will also start seeing this word in TOPIK I (Level 2) reading materials occasionally as a 'challenge' word.
At the B2 level, this is a must-know word. You are expected to discuss abstract concepts and provide logical arguments. You should be able to use '상관관계' to describe data in graphs for the TOPIK II writing section. You need to distinguish between '상관관계' (correlation) and '인과관계' (causation). You should also know common collocations like '밀접한 상관관계' (close correlation) and '상관관계를 분석하다' (to analyze the correlation). This word will appear frequently in news articles, documentaries, and professional meetings.
At the C1 level, you should use '상관관계' with precision and nuance. You can discuss the 'strength' of a correlation using terms like '유의미한' (significant) or '미미한' (slight). You understand the statistical implications of the word and can use it to critique arguments. For example, you might point out that two things have a '허위 상관관계' (spurious correlation). You are comfortable using this word in academic papers, formal debates, and high-level business presentations. You also know related academic terms like '변수' (variable) and '회귀 분석' (regression analysis).
At the C2 level, '상관관계' is a basic tool in your linguistic arsenal. You can use it meta-linguistically to discuss the nature of relationships in complex systems like philosophy, advanced economics, or quantum physics. You can effortlessly switch between '상관관계,' '연관성,' '인과관계,' and '상호작용' (interaction) to convey exact shades of meaning. You can read dense academic journals where this word is used in every paragraph and understand the specific mathematical or logical weight it carries in that context. You can also use it sarcastically or metaphorically in high-level literature.

상관관계 in 30 Sekunden

  • 상관관계 (Correlation) describes a mutual link or connection between two variables where they tend to change together in a predictable pattern.
  • It is a formal, B2-level academic term used in news, research, and professional settings rather than casual personal conversations.
  • A key distinction must be made between '상관관계' (correlation) and '인과관계' (causation), as the former does not prove one thing causes another.
  • Commonly paired with adjectives like '밀접한' (close) and verbs like '분석하다' (analyze) to describe the strength and study of these links.

The term 상관관계 (Sanggwan-gwangye) is a sophisticated noun used primarily in academic, professional, and analytical contexts to describe a 'correlation' or a mutual relationship between two or more variables. In Korean, this word is composed of four Hanja characters: 相 (상 - mutual), 關 (관 - relate), 關 (관 - relate), and 係 (계 - connection). When you use this word, you are suggesting that as one thing changes, another thing changes in a predictable way, though not necessarily that one causes the other. This distinction is crucial in Korean logic, just as it is in English statistics.

Statistical Context
In research papers or news reports, you will often hear about '양의 상관관계' (positive correlation) or '음의 상관관계' (negative correlation). For instance, researchers might discuss the correlation between study hours and exam scores.

운동량과 건강 사이에는 밀접한 상관관계가 있습니다. (There is a close correlation between the amount of exercise and health.)

Beyond statistics, the word is used in daily life when people want to sound more precise or formal. Instead of simply saying things are 'related' (관련이 있다), using '상관관계' implies a structural or systematic dependency. It is a B2-level word because it requires an understanding of abstract conceptual links rather than physical ones. You might hear a manager discussing the correlation between employee satisfaction and productivity, or a doctor explaining the correlation between stress and physical symptoms. It conveys a sense of rigorous observation.

Formal Register
This word is rarely used in casual slang. If you use it while grabbing coffee with friends, you might sound like you are giving a lecture, unless you are discussing a serious topic like social trends or economics.

소득 수준과 교육열 사이의 상관관계를 분석했습니다. (We analyzed the correlation between income levels and passion for education.)

In a broader sense, '상관' means 'to matter' or 'to be related,' and '관계' means 'relationship.' When fused, they create a term that describes how two things 'inter-relate.' It is a fundamental word for anyone looking to pass the TOPIK II exam or work in a Korean corporate environment where data-driven decision-making is valued. Understanding this word helps you navigate complex discussions about sociology, science, and business strategy.

Common Verbs
It is frequently paired with verbs like '있다' (to exist), '없다' (to not exist), '깊다' (to be deep/strong), '높다' (to be high), and '규명하다' (to clarify/investigate).

두 변수 사이의 상관관계가 매우 높게 나타났습니다. (The correlation between the two variables appeared very high.)

Using 상관관계 correctly requires understanding its grammatical placement. It almost always appears as the object of an analysis or the subject of an existence statement. The most common pattern is 'A와 B 사이의 상관관계' (The correlation between A and B). This structure is essential for expressing complex ideas clearly in Korean.

Pattern 1: Existence
[A]와/과 [B]는 (밀접한) 상관관계가 있다/없다. (A and B have a [close] correlation or don't have one.)

수면 시간과 집중력 사이에는 깊은 상관관계가 존재합니다. (There exists a deep correlation between sleep time and concentration.)

When you want to emphasize the strength of the relationship, you can use adjectives like '밀접한' (close), '긴밀한' (tight), '직접적인' (direct), or '유의미한' (significant). In a professional setting, '유의미한 상관관계' (statistically significant correlation) is a very common phrase used to justify business decisions or scientific findings.

Pattern 2: Analysis
[A]와/과 [B]의 상관관계를 분석하다/조사하다/밝히다. (To analyze/investigate/reveal the correlation of A and B.)

정부는 실업률과 범죄율의 상관관계를 조사하고 있습니다. (The government is investigating the correlation between the unemployment rate and the crime rate.)

In more complex sentences, you might see it paired with the particle '-를 토대로' (based on) or '-에 따라' (according to). For example, '상관관계에 따라 정책을 수립하다' (to establish policy according to the correlation). This demonstrates how the word acts as a foundation for further action or thought.

Pattern 3: Comparison
상관관계가 높다 vs 낮다. (The correlation is high vs. low.) This is used to describe the strength of the link.

나이와 디지털 기기 사용 숙련도 사이의 상관관계는 점차 낮아지고 있습니다. (The correlation between age and proficiency in using digital devices is gradually decreasing.)

Finally, you can use it to dismiss a connection. '전혀 상관관계가 없다' (to have no correlation whatsoever) is a strong way to say two things are independent. This is often used in debates or when debunking myths.

혈액형과 성격 사이에는 과학적인 상관관계가 없습니다. (There is no scientific correlation between blood type and personality.)

You will encounter 상관관계 in environments where logic and evidence are paramount. It is a staple of the Korean news cycle, especially during segments on health, the economy, and social phenomena. If a new study is released about the benefits of kimchi, the news anchor will likely use this word to describe the link between kimchi consumption and longevity.

News & Media
Journalists use it to report on data. '최근 연구에 따르면 미세먼지 농도와 호흡기 질환 사이의 상관관계가 입증되었습니다.' (According to recent research, the correlation between fine dust concentration and respiratory diseases has been proven.)

경제 전문가들은 금리와 주가의 역방향 상관관계에 대해 경고했습니다. (Economic experts warned about the inverse correlation between interest rates and stock prices.)

In universities and research institutes, this word is used daily. Students writing their theses (논문) must identify and explain the '상관관계' between their variables. It is the language of the 'intellectual' and the 'professional.' If you are watching a documentary on KBS or SBS about climate change, you will hear scientists discussing the correlation between CO2 levels and global temperatures.

Legal & Formal Documents
In legal cases involving environmental damage or medical malpractice, lawyers must prove a '상관관계' between the defendant's actions and the harm caused. However, in law, they often look for the even stronger '인과관계' (causation).

법원은 피고의 행위와 피해 발생 사이의 직접적인 상관관계를 인정했습니다. (The court recognized a direct correlation between the defendant's actions and the occurrence of damage.)

Even in self-help books or podcasts, authors might discuss the correlation between morning routines and success. It has become a part of the 'smart' vernacular in modern Korea, reflecting a society that is increasingly focused on data, efficiency, and scientific reasoning. If you are preparing for the TOPIK exam, expect to see this word in the reading section about social trends or in the writing section (Task 53) where you describe graphs.

그래프를 보면 독서량과 어휘력 사이의 정(+)의 상관관계를 알 수 있습니다. (Looking at the graph, one can see a positive correlation between the amount of reading and vocabulary skills.)

One of the most frequent mistakes learners make is using 상관관계 when they should simply use 관계 (relationship) or 상관 (concern/relation). This is a matter of register and specificity. '상관관계' is an analytical term; it is not used for personal or emotional connections.

Mistake 1: Personal Relationships
Never say '나와 내 친구는 상관관계가 좋다' (The correlation between me and my friend is good). This sounds like you are analyzing your friendship as a data point. Instead, use '사이' (between/relationship) or '관계' (relationship). Correct: '나와 내 친구는 사이가 좋다.'

❌ 부부 사이의 상관관계가 나빠졌어요. (Wrong)
✅ 부부 사이의 관계가 나빠졌어요. (Correct - The relationship between the couple worsened.)

Another common error is confusing '상관관계' with '상관없다' (It doesn't matter). While they share the same '상관' root, '상관없다' is a very common idiomatic expression for indifference. '상관관계가 없다' means 'there is no statistical/logical correlation,' whereas '상관없다' usually means 'I don't care' or 'It's irrelevant to the current situation.'

Mistake 2: Correlation vs. Causation
In academic writing, don't use '상관관계' if you have already proven that A causes B. In that case, use '인과관계' (causality). Using '상관관계' when you mean '인과관계' can make your argument sound weaker than it actually is.

❌ 비가 오면 땅이 젖는 것은 상관관계입니다. (Weak)
✅ 비가 오면 땅이 젖는 것은 인과관계입니다. (Correct - Rain causing the ground to get wet is causation.)

Lastly, learners sometimes forget the particles. Always remember that when connecting two nouns, you need '와/과' or '및'. Saying '날씨 상관관계' is incorrect; it should be '날씨와의 상관관계' or '날씨와 기분의 상관관계'.

❌ 가격 판매량 상관관계 (Incorrect compounding)
✅ 가격과 판매량 사이의 상관관계 (Correct - The correlation between price and sales volume.)

While 상관관계 is the most precise term for 'correlation,' there are several other words that cover similar ground. Choosing the right one depends on how formal you want to be and what kind of 'connection' you are describing.

연관성 (Yeongwan-seong) - Relevance/Connection
This is a very common alternative. It's slightly less technical than 상관관계. If you want to say two things are 'linked' or 'associated,' this is your go-to word. It's used in phrases like '범죄와의 연관성' (connection to the crime).

그 사건은 이번 일과 아무런 연관성이 없습니다. (That incident has no relevance to this matter.)

관련성 (Gwallyeon-seong) - Relatedness
Similar to 연관성, but even more general. It just means that there is some sort of relation. It's often used when the nature of the relationship isn't yet fully understood.

Here is a quick comparison table to help you distinguish them:

WordFocusUsage
상관관계Mutual dependencyScientific, Statistical, Formal
인과관계Cause and effectLogical, Legal, Scientific
연관성Association/LinkGeneral, News, Investigation
유대 (관계)Bond/TieSocial, Emotional, Human
인과관계 (Ingwa-gwangye) - Causality
As mentioned before, this is the 'stronger' version of a relationship. It implies that A causes B. In Korean philosophy and science, distinguishing between these two is a mark of high linguistic and cognitive ability.

단순한 상관관계를 넘어서 인과관계를 증명해야 합니다. (We must go beyond simple correlation and prove causality.)

If you are looking for a more poetic or human-centric word, avoid all of the above and use '인연' (destiny/connection between people) or '유대' (bond). '상관관계' is cold and analytical; '인연' is warm and spiritual.

How Formal Is It?

Wusstest du?

The word '상관' (相關) originally comes from the idea of 'connecting gates' or 'barriers' (關) together. It implies a structural link that allows passage or influence from one side to the other.

Aussprachehilfe

UK /sʰaŋ.ɡwan.ɡwan.ɡje/
US /sɑŋ.ɡwɑn.ɡwɑn.ɡjeɪ/
In Korean, stress is generally even, but a slight emphasis on the first syllable '상' (Sang) is common in formal speech.
Reimt sich auf
인과관계 (Ingwa-gwangye) 인간관계 (Ingan-gwangye) 상호관계 (Sangho-gwangye) 대인관계 (Daein-gwangye) 계급관계 (Gyegeup-gwangye) 권력관계 (Gwonlyeok-gwangye) 우호관계 (Uho-gwangye) 적대관계 (Jeokdae-gwangye)
Häufige Fehler
  • Pronouncing '상관' as '성관' (Seong-gwan), which changes the meaning.
  • Merging the two '관' syllables into one long sound.
  • Mispronouncing '계' (Gye) as '게' (Ge) - though common in casual speech, formal speech keeps it distinct.
  • Using an English 'r' sound for the 'n' in 'gwan'.
  • Stressing the final syllable too hard.

Schwierigkeitsgrad

Lesen 4/5

Requires understanding of abstract concepts and Hanja roots.

Schreiben 5/5

Difficult to use naturally without sounding overly stiff or academic.

Sprechen 4/5

Pronunciation of 'gwan-gwan' can be a tongue-twister for beginners.

Hören 3/5

Clear pronunciation in formal media makes it easy to spot.

Was du als Nächstes lernen solltest

Voraussetzungen

관계 (Relationship) 상관없다 (To not matter) 사이 (Between) 연결 (Connection) 분석 (Analysis)

Als Nächstes lernen

인과관계 (Causality) 변수 (Variable) 통계학 (Statistics) 가설 (Hypothesis) 입증 (Proof)

Fortgeschritten

회귀 분석 (Regression analysis) 독립 변수 (Independent variable) 종속 변수 (Dependent variable) 매개 효과 (Mediating effect) 조절 효과 (Moderating effect)

Wichtige Grammatik

A와 B 사이의 [Noun]

서울과 부산 사이의 거리 / 가격과 품질 사이의 상관관계

-은/는 -와/과 상관관계가 있다

비만은 성인병과 밀접한 상관관계가 있다.

-을수록 (The more... the more...)

상관관계가 높을수록 예측이 쉽습니다.

-를 토대로 (Based on...)

상관관계를 토대로 보고서를 작성했습니다.

-에 따라 (According to...)

상관관계의 강도에 따라 분류했습니다.

Beispiele nach Niveau

1

이것과 저것은 관계가 있어요.

This and that have a relationship.

Simple relationship using '관계'.

2

친구와 사이가 좋아요.

I have a good relationship with my friend.

Using '사이' for personal relationships.

3

상관없어요.

It doesn't matter.

Common phrase from the same root.

4

밥과 건강은 관계가 있어요.

Food and health are related.

Basic connection of concepts.

5

공부와 성적은 관계가 있어요.

Study and grades are related.

Simple logic.

6

이것은 무엇과 관계가 있나요?

What is this related to?

Question form.

7

둘은 아무 관계가 없어요.

The two have no relationship.

Negation.

8

우리는 좋은 관계입니다.

We are in a good relationship.

Formal '관계'.

1

날씨와 기분은 상관관계가 있어요.

Weather and mood have a correlation.

Introductory use of '상관관계'.

2

돈과 행복은 어떤 상관관계가 있을까요?

What kind of correlation do money and happiness have?

Asking about a relationship.

3

운동과 몸무게는 상관관계가 깊어요.

Exercise and weight have a deep correlation.

Using '깊다' (deep) to describe the link.

4

두 사람의 말은 상관관계가 없어요.

The words of the two people have no correlation.

Negating the correlation.

5

이 그래프는 상관관계를 보여줍니다.

This graph shows the correlation.

Describing a visual aid.

6

키와 몸무게는 보통 상관관계가 있습니다.

Height and weight usually have a correlation.

General observation.

7

상관관계를 생각해보세요.

Think about the correlation.

Imperative form.

8

그 일은 저와 상관관계가 없어요.

That matter has no correlation with me.

Slightly formal/stiff usage.

1

가격과 품질 사이에는 밀접한 상관관계가 있습니다.

There is a close correlation between price and quality.

Using '밀접한' (close).

2

전문가들은 두 사건의 상관관계를 조사하고 있습니다.

Experts are investigating the correlation between the two incidents.

Using '조사하다' (investigate).

3

흡연과 폐암 사이의 상관관계는 이미 밝혀졌습니다.

The correlation between smoking and lung cancer has already been revealed.

Using '밝혀지다' (to be revealed).

4

이 데이터는 두 변수의 상관관계를 설명합니다.

This data explains the correlation of the two variables.

Using '설명하다' (explain).

5

상관관계가 높을수록 결과가 정확합니다.

The higher the correlation, the more accurate the results.

-을수록 (the more... the more...).

6

우리는 새로운 상관관계를 찾아내야 합니다.

We need to find a new correlation.

Using '찾아내다' (find/discover).

7

교육 수준과 소득은 상관관계가 있다고 합니다.

It is said that education level and income have a correlation.

Indirect quotation '-고 하다'.

8

이 두 현상은 우연일 뿐 상관관계가 없습니다.

These two phenomena are just coincidences and have no correlation.

Distinguishing from coincidence.

1

단순한 상관관계를 인과관계로 오해해서는 안 됩니다.

You should not mistake simple correlation for causation.

Logical distinction.

2

연구 결과, 두 요인 사이에 유의미한 상관관계가 발견되었습니다.

As a result of the research, a significant correlation was found between the two factors.

Using '유의미한' (significant).

3

상관관계 분석을 통해 마케팅 전략을 세웠습니다.

We established a marketing strategy through correlation analysis.

Using '-를 통해' (through).

4

소비 습관과 성격 사이의 상관관계를 규명하는 것이 목적입니다.

The goal is to clarify the correlation between spending habits and personality.

Using '규명하다' (to clarify/investigate).

5

상관관계가 낮게 나타나서 가설을 수정해야 했습니다.

Because the correlation appeared low, the hypothesis had to be revised.

Scientific process.

6

기온 상승과 에너지 소비량의 상관관계를 그래프로 나타냈습니다.

The correlation between temperature rise and energy consumption was shown in a graph.

Describing data representation.

7

상관관계가 존재하지만 그 원인은 아직 모릅니다.

A correlation exists, but the cause is not yet known.

Contrasting existence vs knowledge.

8

이 보고서는 인구 구조와 경제 성장의 상관관계를 다룹니다.

This report deals with the correlation between population structure and economic growth.

Using '다루다' (to deal with/cover).

1

두 지표 사이의 역방향 상관관계가 뚜렷하게 관찰됩니다.

An inverse correlation between the two indicators is clearly observed.

Using '역방향' (inverse) and '뚜렷하게' (clearly).

2

상관관계 계수가 0.8 이상이면 매우 강한 관계라고 볼 수 있습니다.

If the correlation coefficient is 0.8 or higher, it can be seen as a very strong relationship.

Technical statistical term '계수' (coefficient).

3

이 논문은 상관관계의 허구성을 지적하며 새로운 관점을 제시합니다.

This paper points out the fallaciousness of the correlation and presents a new perspective.

Critical analysis.

4

복잡한 사회 현상에서 단일한 상관관계를 찾아내는 것은 어렵습니다.

It is difficult to find a single correlation in complex social phenomena.

Discussing complexity.

5

상관관계의 정도에 따라 변수들을 범주화했습니다.

The variables were categorized according to the degree of correlation.

Using '범주화하다' (categorize).

6

통계적 상관관계가 반드시 실질적 중요성을 의미하지는 않습니다.

Statistical correlation does not necessarily mean practical importance.

Philosophical/Statistical nuance.

7

환경 변수를 통제한 후에도 상관관계가 유지되는지 확인해야 합니다.

We must check if the correlation is maintained after controlling for environmental variables.

Using '통제하다' (to control).

8

상관관계의 양상이 시대에 따라 변화하고 있습니다.

The pattern of correlation is changing over time.

Using '양상' (aspect/pattern).

1

다중공선성 문제는 독립 변수들 간의 높은 상관관계에서 비롯됩니다.

The problem of multicollinearity stems from high correlation between independent variables.

High-level statistical terminology.

2

상관관계의 비선형적 특성을 반영하기 위해 새로운 모델을 도입했습니다.

A new model was introduced to reflect the non-linear characteristics of the correlation.

Using '비선형적' (non-linear).

3

본 연구는 상관관계의 메커니즘을 심층적으로 규명하고자 합니다.

This study aims to clarify the mechanism of correlation in depth.

Academic intent '-고자 하다'.

4

상관관계의 부재가 반드시 독립성을 보장하는 것은 아닙니다.

The absence of correlation does not necessarily guarantee independence.

Logical paradox.

5

역사적 데이터의 상관관계를 재해석함으로써 기존 학설에 도전합니다.

By reinterpreting the correlations in historical data, it challenges existing theories.

Scholarly challenge.

6

상관관계의 동역학적 변화를 실시간으로 추적하는 시스템을 구축했습니다.

A system was built to track the dynamic changes in correlation in real-time.

Using '동역학적' (dynamic).

7

상관관계의 강도가 임계치를 넘어서면 시스템 붕괴가 우려됩니다.

If the strength of the correlation exceeds the threshold, system collapse is feared.

Using '임계치' (threshold).

8

이론적 가설과 실제 상관관계 사이의 괴리를 좁히는 것이 관건입니다.

The key is to narrow the gap between theoretical hypotheses and actual correlations.

Using '괴리' (gap/discrepancy) and '관건' (key/crux).

Häufige Kollokationen

밀접한 상관관계
상관관계를 분석하다
상관관계가 높다
유의미한 상관관계
상관관계가 없다
직접적인 상관관계
역방향 상관관계
상관관계를 규명하다
상관관계가 깊다
상관관계를 밝히다

Häufige Phrasen

A와 B의 상관관계

— The correlation between A and B. Used as a standard title or topic sentence.

물가와 소비의 상관관계에 대해 토론합시다.

상관관계가 뚜렷하다

— The correlation is clear or obvious. Used when the data shows a strong pattern.

두 현상 사이의 상관관계가 뚜렷하게 보입니다.

상관관계를 파악하다

— To grasp or understand the correlation. Used in problem-solving contexts.

먼저 문제들 사이의 상관관계를 파악해야 합니다.

긍정적 상관관계

— Positive correlation (though '정의 상관관계' is more technical). Used in business.

광고비와 매출은 긍정적 상관관계가 있습니다.

부정적 상관관계

— Negative correlation (though '역의 상관관계' is more technical).

스트레스와 업무 효율은 부정적 상관관계가 있다.

상관관계가 미미하다

— The correlation is insignificant or very slight.

나이와 창의력의 상관관계는 미미한 것으로 나타났다.

상관관계가 존재하다

— A correlation exists. Used to confirm a link.

둘 사이에는 분명한 상관관계가 존재합니다.

상관관계를 입증하다

— To prove the correlation with evidence.

실험을 통해 상관관계를 입증했습니다.

상관관계에 주목하다

— To pay attention to the correlation.

우리는 이 두 지표의 상관관계에 주목해야 합니다.

상관관계를 무시하다

— To ignore the correlation.

데이터의 상관관계를 무시하면 잘못된 결론을 내릴 수 있다.

Wird oft verwechselt mit

상관관계 vs 상관없다

Means 'to not care' or 'to be irrelevant'. Don't use '상관관계' when you mean you don't care about something.

상관관계 vs 인과관계

Causality. Correlation is just a link; causation means one causes the other.

상관관계 vs 연관성

Association. '연관성' is broader and less technical than '상관관계'.

Redewendungen & Ausdrücke

"바늘 가는 데 실 간다"

— Where the needle goes, the thread follows. This describes a very close correlation or inseparable relationship.

그 두 사람은 바늘 가는 데 실 가듯 항상 붙어 다녀요.

Informal/Proverb
"아니 땐 굴뚝에 연기 날까"

— Would smoke come out of a chimney that hasn't been lit? Implies a correlation between a rumor and the truth.

아니 땐 굴뚝에 연기 날까? 분명 무슨 상관관계가 있을 거야.

General/Proverb
"그림의 떡"

— A picture of a rice cake. Used when something has no correlation/connection to one's reality despite looking good.

저 비싼 차는 나에게 그림의 떡이라 내 지갑과는 상관관계가 없어.

Informal
"상관없는 일에 참견 말라"

— Don't interfere in matters that don't concern you. (Uses the root '상관').

너랑 상관없는 일이니까 참견하지 마.

Informal
"오비이락 (烏飛梨落)"

— A crow flies away, and a pear falls. Describes a false correlation (coincidence) mistaken for causation.

그건 오비이락일 뿐, 두 사건 사이에 상관관계는 없어요.

Formal/Hanja
"실과 바늘의 관계"

— A relationship like thread and needle. Very high correlation.

우리 회사의 성장은 기술력과 실과 바늘의 관계입니다.

Neutral
"물과 기름"

— Water and oil. Describes a zero or negative correlation where things don't mix.

그 두 이론은 물과 기름 같아서 상관관계를 찾을 수 없어요.

Neutral
"하나를 보면 열을 안다"

— See one and you know ten. Implies a strong correlation between a small detail and the whole character.

그의 성실함을 보니 하나를 보면 열을 안다고, 업무 능력과도 상관관계가 높을 거예요.

General
"인과응보"

— Justice/Retribution. A specific type of causal correlation in moral contexts.

그의 성공은 인과응보라기보다 노력과의 상관관계 덕분이다.

Formal
"천생연분"

— A match made in heaven. A perfect 'human' correlation/match.

두 사람은 정말 천생연분이라 성격의 상관관계가 완벽해요.

Informal

Leicht verwechselbar

상관관계 vs 관계

Both mean relationship.

'관계' is general (family, friends, logic). '상관관계' is specific to data and mutual influence.

우리는 친구 관계예요 (Correct). 우리는 친구 상관관계예요 (Incorrect).

상관관계 vs 연관

Both imply a link.

'연관' is about how things are 'connected' in a story or event. '상관관계' is about how they 'vary' together.

그는 사건과 연관되어 있다.

상관관계 vs 맥락

Both involve connections.

'맥락' is 'context' or 'flow'. '상관관계' is a structural link between variables.

글의 맥락을 파악하세요.

상관관계 vs 대조

Used when comparing things.

'대조' is 'contrast' (showing differences). '상관관계' is showing how they change together.

두 그림을 대조해 보세요.

상관관계 vs 비교

Used in analysis.

'비교' is 'comparison' (finding similarities/differences). '상관관계' is finding a mathematical/logical link.

두 상품을 비교해 봅시다.

Satzmuster

B1

A와 B는 상관관계가 있다.

날씨와 기분은 상관관계가 있다.

B2

A와 B 사이에는 밀접한 상관관계가 존재한다.

노력과 성공 사이에는 밀접한 상관관계가 존재한다.

B2

A의 상관관계를 분석하다.

두 변수의 상관관계를 분석했다.

C1

상관관계가 유의미하게 나타나다.

실험 결과 상관관계가 유의미하게 나타났다.

C1

상관관계를 규명하는 것이 중요하다.

원인과 결과의 상관관계를 규명하는 것이 중요하다.

C2

상관관계의 메커니즘을 고찰하다.

사회 구조와 범죄의 상관관계의 메커니즘을 고찰하다.

C2

A와 B의 역방향 상관관계를 지적하다.

보고서는 물가와 소비의 역방향 상관관계를 지적했다.

B2

상관관계가 전혀 없음을 밝히다.

그는 두 사건이 상관관계가 전혀 없음을 밝혔다.

Wortfamilie

Substantive

상관 (Relation/Concern)
관계 (Relationship)
상관성 (Correlation/Relativity)
연관 (Connection)

Verben

상관하다 (To concern oneself with)
상관되다 (To be related)
관련되다 (To be related)

Adjektive

상관없다 (To be unrelated/irrelevant)

Verwandt

인과관계 (Causality)
변수 (Variable)
통계 (Statistics)
분석 (Analysis)
지표 (Indicator)

So verwendest du es

frequency

High in written/formal Korean, Low in casual spoken Korean.

Häufige Fehler
  • 나와 그는 상관관계가 깊다. 나와 그는 사이가 깊다 / 관계가 깊다.

    Using '상관관계' for personal relationships sounds like a scientific report.

  • 이 일은 너랑 상관관계없어. 이 일은 너랑 상관없어.

    '상관없다' is the idiomatic way to say 'It's none of your business'.

  • 상관관계 분석했어요. 상관관계를 분석했어요.

    In formal writing, do not drop the object particle '를'.

  • 비가 와서 땅이 젖는 상관관계. 비가 와서 땅이 젖는 인과관계.

    This is a cause-effect relationship, not just a correlation.

  • A와 B의 상관관계가 높다. A와 B 사이의 상관관계가 높다.

    Adding '사이의' (between) makes the sentence more precise and natural.

Tipps

Use for Data

Whenever you are presenting a graph or a chart in Korean, use '상관관계' to describe the relationship between the X and Y axes. It makes your analysis sound professional.

Check Particles

Make sure to use 'A와/과 B 사이의 상관관계'. Forgetting the '사이의' (between) is a common mistake that makes the sentence feel incomplete.

News Buzzword

When you hear '연구 결과' (research results) on the news, listen for '상관관계'. It is almost always used to explain the main point of the study.

Roots Matter

Remembering that '관' and '계' both mean 'connection' helps you understand why this word is so strong. It's a double-connection word!

Correlation vs Causation

In a debate, if someone says A causes B, you can counter by saying '그것은 단순한 상관관계일 뿐입니다' (That is just a simple correlation).

Enunciate Clearly

The 'gwan-gwan' part can be tricky. Practice saying '상관' then '관계' separately before merging them to ensure clarity.

Avoid for People

If you use this word for your friends, they might think you are cold or overly logical. Stick to '우리 사이' or '인간관계'.

Task 53 King

For the TOPIK Writing Task 53, memorize the phrase 'A는 B와 밀접한 상관관계가 있는 것으로 나타났다'. It's a high-scoring sentence pattern.

The 'S' Rule

Sanggwan = Statistics. Both start with 'S'. If it involves numbers or trends, use Sanggwan.

Context Clues

If you see '상관관계' in a text, look for words like '원인' (cause) or '결과' (result) nearby to see if the author is arguing for or against a link.

Einprägen

Eselsbrücke

Think of 'Sang' as 'Same/Sharing' and 'Gwan' as 'Connection'. 'Gwangye' is the relationship. So, 'Sharing a Connection Relationship' = Correlation.

Visuelle Assoziation

Imagine two gears interlocked. When gear A (Sang-gwan) turns, gear B (Gwangye) must turn too. They are correlated.

Word Web

Data Statistics News Research Variables Graph Link Logic

Herausforderung

Try to find two random things in your room (e.g., your coffee cup and your mood) and explain their 상관관계 in a Korean sentence.

Wortherkunft

Derived from Sino-Korean (Hanja). '상관' (相關) means mutual relation, and '관계' (關係) means connection or relationship.

Ursprüngliche Bedeutung: A state where two things are mutually connected and affect each other.

Sino-Korean (Hanja-based vocabulary)

Kultureller Kontext

This is a neutral, scientific word. It has no negative or sensitive connotations, but using it for personal romance sounds cold.

In English, we often say 'Correlation does not imply causation.' Koreans have a similar saying: '상관관계가 곧 인과관계는 아니다.'

The TOPIK exam (Test of Proficiency in Korean) frequently uses this word in Level 5-6 reading texts. Korean economic news reports (KBS News 9) use it daily. Academic papers in the 'Journal of Korean Studies'.

Im Alltag üben

Kontexte aus dem Alltag

Scientific Research

  • 상관관계를 규명하다
  • 유의미한 상관관계
  • 변수 간의 상관관계
  • 데이터 분석

Economic News

  • 금리와 물가의 상관관계
  • 역방향 상관관계
  • 지표의 상관관계
  • 시장 분석

Health and Wellness

  • 식습관과 건강의 상관관계
  • 밀접한 상관관계
  • 상관관계가 밝혀지다
  • 연구 결과

Sociology

  • 교육과 소득의 상관관계
  • 사회적 상관관계
  • 현상 간의 상관관계
  • 통계 자료

Business Meetings

  • 상관관계를 고려하다
  • 매출과의 상관관계
  • 상관관계를 파악하다
  • 전략 수립

Gesprächseinstiege

"최근에 읽은 기사에서 설탕 섭취와 집중력의 상관관계에 대해 봤어요."

"당신은 운과 성공 사이에 어떤 상관관계가 있다고 생각하시나요?"

"한국어 공부 시간과 실력 향상 사이의 상관관계를 느껴본 적 있나요?"

"MBTI 성격 유형과 직업 선택 사이에 상관관계가 있을까요?"

"도시의 소음과 주민들의 행복 지수 사이의 상관관계에 대해 어떻게 생각하세요?"

Tagebuch-Impulse

나의 하루 수면 시간과 다음 날의 기분 사이의 상관관계를 분석해 보세요.

내가 돈을 쓰는 곳과 나의 가치관 사이에는 어떤 상관관계가 있을까요?

독서량과 나의 생각하는 힘 사이의 상관관계에 대해 써 보세요.

성공한 사람들의 공통점과 그들의 습관 사이의 상관관계를 고찰해 보세요.

기후 변화와 우리 일상생활의 변화 사이의 상관관계를 관찰한 기록을 남겨 보세요.

Häufig gestellte Fragen

10 Fragen

No. That would sound like you are analyzing him as a data point. Use '관계' or '사이' instead. For example, '남자친구와 사이가 좋아요' (I have a good relationship with my boyfriend).

상관관계 is more technical and specific to statistics (correlation). 연관성 is more general (association). Use 상관관계 when you have data or a clear pattern of change.

No. Just because there is a 상관관계 (correlation) doesn't mean there is an 인과관계 (causation). For example, ice cream sales and shark attacks are correlated (both go up in summer), but ice cream doesn't cause shark attacks.

You can say '양의 상관관계' (positive correlation) or '정의 상관관계'. In common speech, '밀접한 상관관계' is also used to show they move together.

Yes, very frequently. It appears in the reading section for advanced levels (5-6) and is a key word for the writing section when describing graphs.

It is a noun. To use it like a verb, you say '상관관계가 있다' (to have a correlation) or '상관관계를 분석하다' (to analyze a correlation).

Only if you are being ironic or discussing a serious topic. In a casual setting, it sounds a bit like a textbook.

相 (상 - mutual), 關 (관 - relate), 關 (관 - relate), 係 (계 - connection).

It is '음의 상관관계' or '역의 상관관계'. It means as one thing goes up, the other goes down.

Not really. You can use '관계' if you don't need to be specific, but '상관관계' is the standard term for correlation.

Teste dich selbst 200 Fragen

writing

Write a sentence using '상관관계' and '날씨' (weather).

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate: 'There is no correlation between the two events.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Write a sentence using '상관관계' and '공부 시간' (study time).

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate: 'We need to investigate the correlation between stress and health.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Write a sentence using '상관관계가 높다'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate: 'A positive correlation was found.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Write a sentence using '상관관계' and '경제 성장' (economic growth).

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Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate: 'Is there a correlation between these two variables?'

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Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Write a sentence using '상관관계' and '유의미한' (significant).

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Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate: 'Correlation does not mean causation.'

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Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Write a sentence using '상관관계' and '음식' (food).

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Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate: 'The correlation is clear.'

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Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Write a sentence using '상관관계를 규명하다'.

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Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate: 'There is a negative correlation between price and demand.'

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Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Write a sentence using '상관관계' and '수면' (sleep).

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Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate: 'The correlation coefficient is high.'

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Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Write a sentence using '상관관계' and '나이' (age).

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writing

Translate: 'We analyzed the correlation based on the data.'

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Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Write a sentence using '상관관계' and '성격' (personality).

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Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate: 'A close correlation exists between the two factors.'

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Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Describe the correlation between exercise and health in Korean.

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speaking

Explain the difference between correlation and causation in Korean.

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speaking

Tell me about a correlation you noticed in your daily life.

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speaking

Do you think money and happiness have a correlation? Why?

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speaking

How would you present a graph showing a correlation at work?

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speaking

Ask a researcher about the correlation in their study.

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speaking

Discuss the correlation between social media use and mental health.

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speaking

Why is it important to analyze correlations in business?

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speaking

Is there a correlation between blood type and personality? Explain.

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speaking

Talk about the correlation between education and income.

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speaking

What is 'negative correlation'? Give an example.

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speaking

How do you say 'The correlation is weak' in Korean?

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speaking

Discuss the correlation between climate change and natural disasters.

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speaking

Can you prove a correlation with one data point?

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speaking

What is a 'spurious correlation'? Give an example.

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speaking

Describe the correlation between reading books and vocabulary.

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speaking

Why do people mistake correlation for causation?

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speaking

Is there a correlation between height and leadership?

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speaking

How do you explain 'correlation coefficient' to a friend?

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speaking

Summarize the importance of the word '상관관계' in Korean academia.

Read this aloud:

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listening

Listen and write the word: [Audio: '상관관계']

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Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen to the sentence: '두 요인의 상관관계가 깊습니다.' What is deep?

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Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen: '상관관계를 분석해야 합니다.' What must be done?

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Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen: '유의미한 상관관계가 발견되었습니다.' Was it significant?

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen: '역의 상관관계를 보입니다.' Do they move in the same direction?

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Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen: '상관관계가 전혀 없어요.' What is the relationship?

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Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen: '밀접한 상관관계가 입증되었습니다.' Has it been proven?

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen: '상관관계 계수가 낮네요.' Is the coefficient high or low?

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Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen: '상관관계와 인과관계는 다릅니다.' Are they the same?

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Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen: '높은 상관관계를 나타냅니다.' Is the correlation high or low?

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen: '상관관계를 규명했습니다.' What happened to the correlation?

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen: '상관관계를 토대로 전략을 세웁시다.' What is the strategy based on?

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen: '뚜렷한 상관관계가 관찰됩니다.' Is it clear?

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen: '상관관계가 미미한 것으로 나타났습니다.' How is the correlation described?

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen: '상관관계의 방향성을 보세요.' What should we look at?

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:

/ 200 correct

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