At the A1 level, you don't need to use '금주하다' often, but it's good to recognize it. You might mostly say '술 안 마셔요' (I don't drink alcohol). However, if you see a sign in a park that says '금주,' you should know it means 'No Alcohol.' Think of it as a formal way of saying 'No drinking.' You might learn it when talking about basic health or rules. For example, if a teacher asks about your habits, you could say '저는 금주해요' to sound very polite and serious about not drinking. It is a 'hada' verb, so it follows the same rules as '공부하다' (to study) or '일하다' (to work). Just remember: Geum = No, Ju = Alcohol. It's a simple building block for your Korean vocabulary.
At the A2 level, you are starting to use more formal vocabulary for specific situations. '금주하다' is a great word to use when you want to explain a lifestyle choice or a health goal. Instead of just saying 'I don't like alcohol,' you can say '건강을 위해서 금주해요' (I abstain from alcohol for my health). This shows you understand Sino-Korean words (Hanja-based words). You will also start to notice this word in textbooks when discussing hospital visits or making New Year's resolutions. It is important to distinguish this from '금연' (quitting smoking), which often appears next to it. You should be able to conjugate it in the past tense ('금주했어요') and the future tense ('금주할 거예요') to talk about your plans.
By the B1 level, you should be comfortable using '금주하다' in various social contexts. In Korea, social drinking is common, so knowing how to use this word can help you navigate social pressure politely. You might say '요즘 약을 먹고 있어서 금주 중입니다' (I'm currently abstaining because I'm taking medicine). The '중입니다' (in the middle of) construction is very common with this word. You should also understand the difference between '금주' (total abstinence) and '절주' (moderation). At this level, you can participate in conversations about health and lifestyle changes, using '금주하다' to describe a period of sobriety. You will also see this word in news headlines or public announcements, and you should be able to understand the context immediately.
At the B2 level, you are expected to use '금주하다' with nuance. You might discuss the societal impacts of alcohol or personal growth through sobriety. You can use the word in more complex sentence structures, such as '금주하기로 결심한 이후로 몸이 훨씬 가벼워졌어요' (Since I decided to abstain from alcohol, my body feels much lighter). You will also encounter the word in more formal writing, like essays or reports. You should understand related terms like '금주령' (prohibition law) and how the word functions as a noun in phrases like '금주 구역' (alcohol-free zone). At this stage, you should be able to explain the benefits of '금주' to others using advanced grammar like '-다 보니까' or '-도록 하다.'
At the C1 level, you have a deep understanding of the cultural and linguistic weight of '금주하다.' You can discuss the historical context of '금주령' (prohibition) in different eras or countries. You understand the professional implications of '금주' in certain careers (like athletes or pilots). You can also use the word metaphorically or in highly formal debates about public health policy. You should be able to distinguish between '금주' and '단주' (the latter often used in the context of treating addiction). Your usage should be precise, and you should be able to write formal documents or give presentations where '금주' is a key thematic element. You also recognize the word's appearance in literature or historical dramas (Sageuk).
At the C2 level, you master the word '금주하다' in all its forms and contexts. You can analyze the etymology of the Hanja characters in depth and discuss how the concept of 'Geumju' has evolved in Korean society from a religious taboo to a modern health trend (like 'Dry January'). You can use the word in legal, medical, and academic contexts with native-level precision. You understand the subtle differences in register between '금주,' '단주,' and colloquial expressions like '술을 딱 끊다.' You are also aware of the homonyms of '금주' and can use them creatively or identify puns in media. You can lead discussions on the ethics of '금주 구역' in public spaces or the economic impact of '금주' trends on the beverage industry.

금주하다 in 30 Sekunden

  • Formal verb meaning to abstain from alcohol.
  • Used in medical, religious, and resolution contexts.
  • Combines 'Geum' (prohibit) and 'Ju' (alcohol).
  • Different from 'Jeolju' (moderation) and 'Danju' (addiction recovery).

The Korean verb 금주하다 (禁酒--) is a formal and specific term that means 'to abstain from drinking alcohol' or 'to practice sobriety.' Derived from the Hanja characters 禁 (geum) meaning 'to prohibit' and 酒 (ju) meaning 'alcohol,' the word carries a weight of intentionality and discipline. Unlike simply saying 'I don't drink' (술 안 마셔요), using 금주하다 suggests a deliberate decision to stop drinking, often for health, religious, or personal reasons. It is frequently heard in clinical settings, during New Year's resolutions, or when someone is taking a break from social drinking to focus on their well-being.

Etymological Roots
The character 'Geum' (禁) is the same one found in 'Geum-yeon' (금연, quitting smoking) and 'Geum-sik' (금식, fasting). It implies a strict barrier or a forbidden act.

의사 선생님께서 건강을 위해 당분간 금주하라고 하셨어요. (The doctor told me to abstain from alcohol for a while for my health.)

In South Korean culture, where social drinking (hoesik) is a significant part of professional and social life, declaring that one is 금주 중 (in the middle of abstaining) is a powerful statement. It provides a formal excuse that colleagues generally respect more than a simple 'I don't feel like drinking today.' It signals that the individual has a serious reason, such as medical advice or a personal vow, which helps navigate the social pressure often found in Korean drinking culture.

Common Contexts
Medical checkups, religious commitments (like Lent or Buddhist practices), and fitness challenges are the most common scenarios where you will encounter this verb.

새해에는 꼭 금주하겠다는 목표를 세웠습니다. (I set a goal to definitely abstain from alcohol in the New Year.)

Furthermore, the word is used in public policy and law. A 'Geum-ju-gu-yeok' (금주구역) refers to a no-alcohol zone, such as a public park or a school campus. Understanding this word is essential for navigating both the social nuances and the legal regulations of Korea. It represents a transition from the casual 'not drinking' to the disciplined 'abstinence.'

Grammatically, 금주하다 functions as an intransitive verb in most daily contexts, though it can also be used as a noun '금주' combined with the verb '하다.' Because it is a Sino-Korean word, it follows the standard 'Hada' conjugation patterns. For instance, in polite speech, it becomes '금주해요,' and in formal settings, '금주합니다.' When expressing a future intention or a promise to oneself, the form '금주할 거예요' or '금주하겠습니다' is used.

Sentence Structure
Subject + (Reason/Duration) + 금주하다. For example: '저는 (I) 건강을 위해 (for health) 금주하고 있어요 (am abstaining).'

임신 중에는 당연히 금주해야 합니다. (Naturally, one must abstain from alcohol during pregnancy.)

One interesting aspect of using 금주하다 is its interaction with time markers. You can use it with '당분간' (for the time being), '평생' (for a lifetime), or '한 달 동안' (for a month). It is also common to see it in the form '금주를 결심하다' (to decide to abstain) or '금주를 선언하다' (to declare abstinence). This highlights the word's association with strong will and public or private commitment.

그는 간이 안 좋아서 벌써 3년째 금주하고 있다. (He has been abstaining from alcohol for three years now because his liver is not good.)

When talking about someone else, you might use the honorific form '금주하시다.' For example, '아버지는 요즘 금주하세요' (My father is abstaining from alcohol these days). This shows respect for the person's self-control. In writing, especially in medical reports or news articles, the noun form '금주' is often paired with verbs like '권고하다' (to recommend) or '실천하다' (to practice/implement).

In everyday Korean life, you will encounter 금주하다 in several distinct environments. The most common is the doctor's office. During a 'Geon-gang-geom-jin' (health check-up), if your liver enzymes are high or you have high blood pressure, the doctor will almost certainly say, '금주하셔야 합니다' (You must abstain from alcohol). It is a standard medical directive that carries professional authority.

In the Media
News segments regarding public health campaigns or documentaries about the dangers of alcoholism frequently use this term to maintain a serious and educational tone.

정부는 공원 내 금주 캠페인을 벌이고 있습니다. (The government is running a campaign for alcohol abstinence in parks.)

Another place you'll hear this is in 'Hoesik' (company dinner) settings. When a colleague offers a drink and someone refuses, they might say, '저 요즘 금주 중이에요' (I'm abstaining these days). This phrasing is polite but firm, signaling that the refusal isn't personal but part of a larger commitment. It effectively ends the pressure to drink without causing social awkwardness.

시험 공부를 위해 한 달간 금주하기로 했어요. (I decided to abstain from alcohol for a month to study for the exam.)

Lastly, you might see this word on signs in religious buildings, hospitals, or certain public facilities. Signs saying '금주 및 금연 구역' (No drinking and no smoking area) are ubiquitous. In these cases, the word functions as a legal prohibition rather than a personal choice. Understanding the context—whether it's a personal vow or a legal rule—is key to interpreting the word correctly.

One of the most frequent mistakes learners make with 금주하다 is confusing it with its homonym 금주 (今週), which means 'this week.' While they sound identical, the context usually makes the meaning clear. However, in written text without Hanja or clear context, it can occasionally lead to humorous misunderstandings. For example, '금주 계획' could mean 'plans for this week' or 'plans for alcohol abstinence.'

Confusion with '술을 끊다'
While '금주하다' and '술을 끊다' (to quit alcohol) are similar, '술을 끊다' is more colloquial. Using '금주하다' in a very casual setting with close friends might sound slightly too formal or 'stiff.'

Wrong: 이번 금주에 만날까요? (Shall we meet during this abstinence? - meant 'this week')

Another common error is using '금주' when you actually mean '절주' (drinking in moderation). 'Geumju' means zero alcohol, while 'Jeolju' means reducing intake. If you tell a doctor you are '금주' but you still have a beer on weekends, you are technically using the wrong word. Accuracy is important in medical or formal contexts.

Correct: 건강을 위해 금주와 금연을 동시에 시작했습니다. (I started abstaining from alcohol and smoking at the same time for my health.)

Finally, remember that 금주하다 is a verb of action or state. You shouldn't use it to describe a person as 'sober' in the sense of 'not drunk right now' (that would be '술에 취하지 않다' or '정신이 멀쩡하다'). 'Geumju' refers to the long-term or intentional act of not consuming alcohol at all, not the immediate lack of intoxication.

When discussing sobriety or reducing alcohol intake, there are several words that vary in intensity and formality. Understanding these nuances will help you sound more like a native speaker. The most common alternative is the phrase 술을 끊다, which literally means 'to cut alcohol.' This is the go-to expression for daily conversation.

Comparison Table
  • 금주 (Geum-ju): Formal, total abstinence.
  • 절주 (Jeol-ju): Moderation, drinking less.
  • 단주 (Dan-ju): Severe abstinence, often used in recovery contexts (AA).
  • 술을 안 마시다: General statement of not drinking.

완전한 금주가 힘들다면 절주부터 시작해 보세요. (If total abstinence is hard, try starting with moderation.)

Another related term is 단주하다. While 'Geumju' is common for health resolutions, 'Danju' (斷酒) is a stronger term, often used for recovering alcoholics who have 'severed' their relationship with alcohol entirely. It carries a more serious, life-altering connotation. On the other hand, 절주하다 (節酒--) is perfect for when you are just cutting back—perhaps having one glass instead of three.

저는 술을 아예 안 마시는 건 아니고 절주하고 있어요. (I don't not drink at all, but I am practicing moderation.)

Choosing between these words depends on your audience. In a medical report or a formal speech, 금주 is preferred. In a heart-to-heart with a friend, 술 끊었어 is more natural. If you are discussing public health policy, you might use 절주 캠페인 (moderation campaign) if the goal is responsible drinking rather than total prohibition.

How Formal Is It?

Wusstest du?

In the Joseon Dynasty, king-issued 'Geumju-ryeong' (prohibition orders) were common during droughts to save grain used for brewing.

Aussprachehilfe

UK /ɡumdzu.ɦada/
US /ɡumdzu.ɦɑːdɑː/
The stress is equal on all syllables, but 'Ju' can be slightly emphasized in formal speech.
Reimt sich auf
음주하다 (Eum-ju-ha-da) 수주하다 (Su-ju-ha-da) 입주하다 (Ip-ju-ha-da) 연주하다 (Yeon-ju-ha-da) 거주하다 (Geo-ju-ha-da) 완주하다 (Wan-ju-ha-da) 발주하다 (Bal-ju-ha-da) 수주하다 (Su-ju-ha-da)
Häufige Fehler
  • Pronouncing 'Geum' like 'Gum' (chewing gum). It should be a shorter, more closed 'eu' sound.
  • Making the 'j' in 'ju' too sharp like a 'z'.
  • Confusing the pitch with 'Geum-ju' (this week).

Schwierigkeitsgrad

Lesen 2/5

Easy to recognize due to common Hanja roots 'Geum' and 'Ju'.

Schreiben 3/5

Requires remembering the 'hada' conjugation and correct spelling.

Sprechen 2/5

Simple pronunciation, though pitch matters to avoid confusion with 'this week'.

Hören 3/5

Context is needed to distinguish from 'this week' (금주).

Was du als Nächstes lernen solltest

Voraussetzungen

술 (Alcohol) 마시다 (To drink) 하다 (To do) 안 (Not) 건강 (Health)

Als Nächstes lernen

금연 (Quitting smoking) 절주 (Moderation) 보건 (Public health) 결심 (Resolution) 습관 (Habit)

Fortgeschritten

알코올 중독 (Alcoholism) 해독 (Detox) 간 기능 (Liver function) 금욕 (Asceticism) 절제 (Self-control)

Wichtige Grammatik

Hada-verb conjugation

금주하다 -> 금주해요, 금주합니다.

'-기로 하다' (Decision)

내일부터 금주하기로 했어요.

'-고 있다' (Progressive)

저는 3개월째 금주하고 있어요.

'-어야 하다' (Obligation)

건강을 위해 반드시 금주해야 해요.

'-ㄴ 지 ... 되다' (Duration)

금주한 지 벌써 1년이 되었어요.

Beispiele nach Niveau

1

저는 금주해요.

I abstain from alcohol.

Simple present tense of a 'hada' verb.

2

오늘부터 금주입니다.

Starting today, it's abstinence.

Noun + '이다' (to be).

3

금주하세요?

Do you abstain from alcohol?

Question form with a polite ending.

4

여기는 금주 구역이에요.

This is a no-alcohol zone.

'Geumju' as a noun modifying 'Guyeok' (zone).

5

술 안 마셔요. 금주해요.

I don't drink. I'm abstaining.

Combining a colloquial phrase with a formal verb.

6

금주가 좋아요.

Abstaining is good.

'Geumju' as the subject of the sentence.

7

우리 아빠는 금주해요.

My dad abstains from alcohol.

Third-person usage.

8

친구와 금주하기로 했어요.

I decided to abstain with a friend.

'-기로 하다' (decided to).

1

건강을 위해서 금주하고 있어요.

I am abstaining for my health.

'-기 위해서' (for the sake of) + '-고 있다' (present progressive).

2

의사 선생님이 금주하라고 하셨어요.

The doctor told me to abstain.

Indirect command '-라고 하다'.

3

새해 계획은 금주하는 것이에요.

My New Year's plan is to abstain.

'-는 것' (making a verb into a noun phrase).

4

한 달 동안 금주할 수 있어요?

Can you abstain for one month?

'-ㄹ 수 있다' (ability/possibility).

5

금주하니까 몸이 아주 가벼워요.

Since I'm abstaining, my body feels very light.

'-니까' (reason/discovery).

6

술을 좋아하지만 지금은 금주 중이에요.

I like alcohol, but I'm currently abstaining.

'-지만' (but) + '중이다' (in the middle of).

7

금주하면 돈을 아낄 수 있어요.

If you abstain, you can save money.

'-면' (if).

8

어제부터 금주하기 시작했어요.

I started abstaining yesterday.

'-기 시작하다' (start to).

1

중요한 시험이 있어서 당분간 금주해야 해요.

I have an important exam, so I have to abstain for the time being.

'-어야 하다' (must/have to).

2

금주를 선언한 지 일주일이 지났어요.

It's been a week since I declared my abstinence.

'-ㄴ 지 (시간)이 지나다' (time since an action).

3

회사 회식에서도 저는 금주를 지켰어요.

I kept my abstinence even at the company dinner.

'-도' (even/also) + '지키다' (to keep/protect).

4

금주하는 친구를 위해 술 없는 파티를 열었어요.

I threw an alcohol-free party for my abstaining friend.

Noun-modifying form '-하는'.

5

간 수치가 높게 나와서 금주가 시급합니다.

My liver levels came out high, so abstinence is urgent.

Formal ending '-습니다'.

6

금주를 결심하는 것은 쉽지만 지키는 것은 어려워요.

Deciding to abstain is easy, but keeping it is hard.

Comparing two noun phrases.

7

그는 종교적인 이유로 평생 금주하며 살았습니다.

He lived his whole life abstaining for religious reasons.

'-하며' (while/and).

8

금주 캠페인에 참여해서 배지를 받았어요.

I participated in the abstinence campaign and got a badge.

'-어서' (reason/sequence).

1

금주를 실천함으로써 건강한 생활 습관을 기를 수 있습니다.

By practicing abstinence, you can develop healthy lifestyle habits.

'-음으로써' (by means of).

2

과도한 음주 문화를 개선하기 위해 금주 구역이 확대되고 있습니다.

To improve the excessive drinking culture, no-alcohol zones are being expanded.

Passive form '확대되다'.

3

그는 금주를 통해 가족과의 관계를 회복했습니다.

He restored his relationship with his family through abstinence.

'-를 통해' (through).

4

금주 중에는 술자리 자체를 피하는 것이 상책입니다.

While abstaining, the best policy is to avoid drinking gatherings altogether.

'상책이다' (to be the best plan).

5

금주를 시작한 지 겨우 사흘 만에 위기가 찾아왔어요.

A crisis came only three days after starting abstinence.

'-ㄴ 지 ... 만에' (only after a certain time).

6

정기적인 금주는 간의 해독 작용에 큰 도움이 됩니다.

Regular abstinence is a big help to the liver's detoxification process.

Scientific/Formal context.

7

금주를 권장하는 사회적 분위기가 형성되고 있습니다.

A social atmosphere encouraging abstinence is being formed.

Noun-modifying form '-하는' + '형성되다'.

8

금주를 하느니 차라리 집에서 잠을 자겠어요.

I'd rather sleep at home than abstain (ironic/slang use).

'-느니 차라리' (rather than X, I'd rather Y).

1

역사적으로 금주령은 종종 범죄율을 낮추기 위한 수단으로 사용되었습니다.

Historically, prohibition laws were often used as a means to lower crime rates.

Historical/Academic context.

2

그의 금주 의지는 그 어떤 유혹에도 흔들리지 않을 만큼 확고했습니다.

His will to abstain was firm enough not to be shaken by any temptation.

'-을 만큼' (to the extent that).

3

금주와 단주는 엄밀히 말해 그 목적과 강도에서 차이가 있습니다.

Strictly speaking, 'geumju' and 'danju' differ in their purpose and intensity.

Comparative analysis.

4

공공장소에서의 금주를 법제화하려는 움직임이 거세지고 있습니다.

The movement to legalize abstinence in public places is growing stronger.

'-하려는' (intending to) + '거세지다'.

5

금주를 통한 정신적 명료함은 창작 활동에 긍정적인 영향을 미칩니다.

Mental clarity through abstinence has a positive impact on creative activities.

'-에 영향을 미치다' (to influence).

6

운동선수들에게 금주는 선택이 아닌 필수적인 자기관리의 일환입니다.

For athletes, abstinence is not a choice but a part of essential self-management.

'A이/가 아닌 B' (not A but B).

7

금주를 실천하는 과정에서 겪는 금단 현상은 전문가의 도움이 필요할 수 있습니다.

Withdrawal symptoms experienced in the process of practicing abstinence may require expert help.

Medical/Clinical terminology.

8

사회적 유대감 형성을 위해 술이 필수적이라는 편견이 금주를 방해합니다.

The prejudice that alcohol is essential for forming social bonds hinders abstinence.

'-ㄴ다는 편견' (the prejudice that...).

1

금주라는 개인적 결단이 사회 전반의 보건 지표에 미치는 상관관계를 분석해야 합니다.

We must analyze the correlation between the individual decision of abstinence and overall social health indicators.

High-level academic analysis.

2

금주령이 선포되었던 1920년대 미국의 금주법 시대는 지하 경제의 팽창을 초래했습니다.

The Prohibition era in 1920s America, when the prohibition law was declared, led to the expansion of the underground economy.

Complex historical narrative.

3

금주를 미덕으로 여기던 과거의 윤리관이 현대에 와서 어떻게 재해석되고 있는지 고찰해 볼 필요가 있습니다.

It is necessary to consider how the ethical views of the past, which regarded abstinence as a virtue, are being reinterpreted today.

Philosophical inquiry.

4

자발적 금주와 강제적 금주 사이의 심리적 저항감 차이는 행동 경제학적 관점에서 흥미로운 연구 대상입니다.

The difference in psychological resistance between voluntary and forced abstinence is an interesting subject of study from a behavioral economics perspective.

Specialized academic terminology.

5

금주를 단순한 절제가 아닌, 실존적 자유를 향한 투쟁으로 묘사한 문학 작품들이 존재합니다.

There are literary works that describe abstinence not as simple moderation, but as a struggle toward existential freedom.

Literary analysis.

6

디지털 시대의 '도파민 금식' 트렌드는 술뿐만 아니라 모든 자극으로부터의 금주를 포괄하는 개념으로 확장되고 있습니다.

The 'dopamine fasting' trend of the digital age is expanding into a concept that encompasses abstinence from all stimuli, not just alcohol.

Modern sociological observation.

7

금주를 실천하는 이들에 대한 사회적 낙인이 사라지고, 오히려 자기관리의 상징으로 추앙받는 추세입니다.

The social stigma against those who practice abstinence is disappearing, and instead, there is a trend of it being revered as a symbol of self-management.

Sociological trend analysis.

8

금주라는 행위가 지닌 금욕주의적 가치는 동서양을 막론하고 오랫동안 칭송받아 왔습니다.

The ascetic value of the act of abstinence has long been praised regardless of East or West.

'-을 막론하고' (regardless of).

Häufige Kollokationen

금주를 결심하다
금주를 선언하다
금주 구역
금주 기간
금주 캠페인
금주 중이다
금주를 권고하다
금주 실패
금주 실천
금주령

Häufige Phrasen

금주 중이에요

— I'm currently abstaining. Used to decline a drink politely.

아, 저는 금주 중이에요. 물 주세요.

금주를 도와주세요

— Please help me abstain. A request for support.

제가 금주할 수 있게 도와주세요.

금주가 답이다

— Abstaining is the answer. Used when someone is suffering from a hangover.

숙취가 심하네. 역시 금주가 답이다.

금주 1일차

— Day 1 of abstinence. Used on social media for tracking goals.

오늘부터 금주 1일차 시작!

금주를 깨다

— To break one's abstinence. To start drinking again after a period of sobriety.

결국 어제 술을 마셔서 금주를 깼어요.

금주 구역 지정

— Designating a no-alcohol zone.

해수욕장이 금주 구역으로 지정되었습니다.

금주 효과

— The effects of abstaining from alcohol.

금주 효과로 피부가 좋아졌어요.

금주 권장

— Encouraging abstinence.

보건소에서 금주 권장 안내문을 보냈다.

금주 성공

— Succeeding in abstinence.

드디어 1년 금주 성공!

금주 다짐

— A promise to abstain.

술기운에 금주 다짐을 했다.

Wird oft verwechselt mit

금주하다 vs 금주 (今週)

Means 'this week'. Distinguish by context (health vs time).

금주하다 vs 금연 (禁煙)

Means 'quitting smoking'. Often used together in health signs.

금주하다 vs 금식 (禁食)

Means 'fasting' (not eating).

Redewendungen & Ausdrücke

"술을 입에도 대지 않다"

— To not even touch alcohol with one's lips. Total abstinence.

그는 금주를 시작한 후 술을 입에도 대지 않았다.

Idiomatic
"술독에 빠지다"

— To fall into a jar of alcohol. To be a heavy drinker (opposite of geumju).

그는 술독에 빠져 살다가 금주를 시작했다.

Metaphorical
"작심삼일"

— A resolution that lasts only three days. Often used when someone fails at 금주.

금주를 결심했지만 작심삼일이었다.

Common Idiom
"간이 붓다"

— To have a swollen liver. Used to mean someone is being excessively bold (often due to drinking), making 금주 necessary.

간이 부었으니 이제 금주해라.

Slangy Idiom
"술이 술을 마시다"

— The alcohol drinks the alcohol. Binge drinking where one loses control, necessitating 금주.

술이 술을 마시는 지경이라 금주가 필요해요.

Proverbial
"술 끊는 놈하고는 상종도 하지 마라"

— Don't even associate with someone who quits drinking. An old joke about how tough people who can quit drinking are.

오, 금주에 성공했어? 너 정말 독하다!

Humorous
"새사람이 되다"

— To become a new person. Often used when someone successfully starts 금주.

금주하고 나서 정말 새사람이 되었어요.

Metaphorical
"몸을 사리다"

— To take care of one's body. Often used as a reason for 금주.

이제 나이도 있으니 금주하며 몸을 사려야지.

Idiomatic
"정신을 차리다"

— To come to one's senses. Often follows a decision to 금주.

이제 정신 차리고 금주하겠습니다.

Common
"끊을 건 끊다"

— To cut what needs to be cut. Decisively stopping a bad habit like drinking.

건강을 위해 금주! 끊을 건 끊어야지.

Empathetic

Leicht verwechselbar

금주하다 vs 절주

Both relate to controlling alcohol.

Geumju is 0% alcohol; Jeolju is reducing/moderating alcohol.

의사는 금주를 권했지만 그는 절주만 하고 있다.

금주하다 vs 단주

Both mean stopping drinking.

Danju is often used in medical/addiction contexts; Geumju is more general.

중독 환자에게는 단주 교육이 필요합니다.

금주하다 vs 금주령

Sounds like the verb.

It is a noun meaning a formal 'prohibition law'.

역사 시간에 금주령에 대해 배웠다.

금주하다 vs 음주

Opposite meaning but same 'Ju' root.

Eumju is the act of drinking; Geumju is the act of not drinking.

음주 운전은 금주를 통해 예방할 수 있다.

금주하다 vs 금지

Same 'Geum' root.

Geumji is a general 'prohibition'; Geumju is specific to alcohol.

출입 금지와 금주는 다른 명령이다.

Satzmuster

A1

저는 [금주]해요.

저는 금주해요.

A2

[Reason] 때문에 [금주]해요.

건강 때문에 금주해요.

B1

[Time] 동안 [금주]하고 있어요.

한 달 동안 금주하고 있어요.

B1

[금주]하기로 결심했어요.

올해부터 금주하기로 결심했어요.

B2

[금주]를 통해 [Result].

금주를 통해 체중을 감량했습니다.

C1

[금주]가 [Target]에 미치는 영향.

금주가 수면에 미치는 영향을 연구합니다.

C1

[금주]를 실천함으로써 [Value].

금주를 실천함으로써 자제력을 기릅니다.

C2

[금주]의 [Abstract Concept].

금주의 사회경제적 가치를 논하다.

Wortfamilie

Substantive

금주 (Abstinence)
금주가 (A person who abstains)
금주령 (Prohibition law)

Verben

금주하다 (To abstain)

Adjektive

금주하는 (Abstaining)

Verwandt

금연 (Quitting smoking)
금식 (Fasting)
절주 (Moderation)
단주 (Sobriety)
음주 (Drinking)

So verwendest du es

frequency

High in health and social contexts.

Häufige Fehler
  • Using '금주' for 'this week' incorrectly. Check context. '금주 계획' (This week's plan vs. Abstinence plan).

    Since they are homonyms, always provide context like '건강을 위한 금주' to be clear.

  • Saying '술을 금주하다'. Just '금주하다' or '술을 끊다'.

    The 'Ju' in 'Geumju' already means alcohol, so adding 'Sool' (alcohol) is redundant, though sometimes used for emphasis.

  • Using '금주' when you only mean 'drinking less'. Use '절주' (Jeolju).

    Geumju is total abstinence. If you still drink a little, Jeolju is the accurate word.

  • Confusing '금주' with '금연'. 금주 (Alcohol), 금연 (Smoking).

    These are often seen together on signs. Remember 'Ju' = juice/alcohol, 'Yeon' = smoke.

  • Using '금주' to mean 'not drunk'. Use '안 취했다' or '정신이 멀쩡하다'.

    Geumju refers to the habit or decision, not the current state of intoxication.

Tipps

Use it to be firm

If you don't want to be pressured to drink at a Korean dinner, use '금주 중입니다.' It sounds more like a serious commitment than just saying you don't want to drink.

Respect the 'Geumju'

In Korea, if someone says they are '금주 중,' it is polite to stop offering them alcohol immediately. It is considered a respected health or personal choice.

Hanja Power

Learning the 'Geum' (禁) Hanja will help you understand other words like '금지' (prohibition), '금연' (no smoking), and '금구' (taboo word).

Pitch check

Ensure your tone is steady. If you say it with a rising intonation like a question, it might sound like you're asking about 'this week' (금주?).

Doctor's Advice

If a Korean doctor says '금주,' they mean 100% no alcohol. Don't assume it means 'just a little.'

Support others

If a friend says they are '금주,' a good response is '응원할게!' (I'll cheer for you!).

Related words

Learn '숙취' (hangover) as it is often the reason people decide to '금주' the next morning.

Email usage

You can use '금주' in an email to explain why you can't attend a drinking event: '현재 금주 중이라 참석이 어렵습니다.'

News keywords

In Korean news, '금주' is a keyword for public health reports. Pay attention to it to improve your listening.

Declining politely

Always use the polite '-요' or '-습니다' endings when using '금주' to decline a drink.

Einprägen

Eselsbrücke

Think of 'Geum' as 'GUM' that sticks your mouth shut so you can't drink 'JU' (JUICE/Alcohol).

Visuelle Assoziation

Imagine a red 'No' sign (禁) over a traditional Korean alcohol bottle (酒).

Word Web

Health Doctor Resolution No Alcohol Liver Sober Willpower Prohibition

Herausforderung

Try to use '금주' in a sentence today when someone offers you a drink, even if it's just water!

Wortherkunft

Sino-Korean word composed of 禁 (Geum) and 酒 (Ju).

Ursprüngliche Bedeutung: To prohibit alcohol.

Sino-Korean (Hanja)

Kultureller Kontext

Be careful when discussing this with someone who might have a drinking problem; use '단주' or '치료' (treatment) for more serious contexts.

Similar to 'Dry January' or 'going sober' in Western cultures, but often carries a more medical or formal tone in Korea.

Joseon Dynasty Prohibition Laws Modern Korean Health Campaigns AA (Alcoholics Anonymous) Korean chapters

Im Alltag üben

Kontexte aus dem Alltag

Hospital/Clinic

  • 금주하셔야 합니다.
  • 금주한 지 얼마나 됐나요?
  • 금주가 필요합니다.
  • 금주를 권고합니다.

New Year's Resolutions

  • 올해는 금주할 거예요.
  • 금주 계획을 세웠어요.
  • 금주 성공하고 싶어요.
  • 금주 다짐!

Company Dinner (Hoesik)

  • 죄송합니다, 금주 중입니다.
  • 금주하고 있어서 물로 대신할게요.
  • 금주를 선언했습니다.
  • 금주 중이라 술은 못 마셔요.

Public Parks/Schools

  • 여기는 금주 구역입니다.
  • 금주 구역 내 음주 금지.
  • 금주 표지판이 있네요.
  • 금주를 지켜주세요.

Religious Settings

  • 종교적인 이유로 금주합니다.
  • 저희 종교는 금주를 가르칩니다.
  • 금주하며 기도합니다.
  • 금주를 실천하는 삶.

Gesprächseinstiege

"요즘 건강을 위해 금주를 시작했는데, 어때 보여요?"

"금주를 결심한 가장 큰 이유가 뭐예요?"

"금주 중일 때 술자리에서 어떻게 거절하시나요?"

"금주를 하면 정말 몸이 좋아지는 것 같나요?"

"한국의 금주 문화에 대해 어떻게 생각하세요?"

Tagebuch-Impulse

금주를 시작한 지 일주일이 지났다. 내 몸과 마음의 변화를 적어보자.

만약 내가 평생 금주를 해야 한다면, 어떤 점이 가장 힘들 것 같은가?

금주를 권장하는 사회를 만들기 위해 어떤 정책이 필요할까?

내가 금주를 결심하게 된 계기와 목표를 상세히 기록해보자.

금주 중 유혹을 느꼈던 순간과 그것을 어떻게 극복했는지 써보자.

Häufig gestellte Fragen

10 Fragen

Not necessarily. It can mean permanent abstinence, but it is often used for a specific period, like 'during pregnancy' or 'for a month.' Context determines the duration.

No. 'Ju' (酒) specifically refers to alcohol. For other things, you would use '금식' (food) or simply '안 마시다' (not drink).

It is not slang itself, but it is used in common social challenges like '금주 챌린지' (Abstinence Challenge).

'금주' is formal and Sino-Korean. '술 끊다' is native Korean and casual. Use '금주' in professional or medical settings.

You can say '저는 금주가입니다' or '저는 술을 전혀 안 마십니다.'

Yes, it is one of the most common resolutions in Korea, often paired with '금연' (quitting smoking) and '다이어트' (dieting).

A doctor can '권고' (recommend) or '명하다' (order) it for medical reasons, but it's up to the patient to '실천' (practice) it.

Yes, many public parks, mountains, and school zones are designated as '금주 구역' to prevent public disturbance.

Use '금주하세요' or '금주하십니다' to show respect to the person abstaining.

It refers to a royal decree that prohibited the making and drinking of alcohol, usually to conserve grain during hard times.

Teste dich selbst 182 Fragen

writing

Translate to Korean: 'I am abstaining from alcohol for my health.'

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate to Korean: 'The doctor recommended abstinence.'

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate to Korean: 'This park is a no-alcohol zone.'

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Write a sentence using '금주 중' to decline a drink.

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate to Korean: 'My New Year's resolution is to abstain from alcohol.'

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate to Korean: 'It's been a month since I started abstaining.'

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Write a sentence using '금주' and '건강'.

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate to Korean: 'I decided to abstain for a while.'

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate to Korean: 'Successfully abstaining for 100 days is hard.'

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate to Korean: 'He declared abstinence in front of his friends.'

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Write a sentence about why you want to abstain from alcohol.

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate to Korean: 'Please help me with my abstinence.'

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate to Korean: 'Abstinence is better than drinking too much.'

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate to Korean: 'Abstinence helps save money.'

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate to Korean: 'I broke my abstinence at the party.'

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate to Korean: 'There was a prohibition law in the past.'

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Write a sentence using the word '금주가' (teetotaler).

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate to Korean: 'Mental clarity comes from abstinence.'

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate to Korean: 'I am taking medicine, so I must abstain.'

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate to Korean: 'Abstinence is a symbol of self-control.'

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

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say in Korean: 'I am abstaining from alcohol these days.'

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say in Korean: 'I decided to abstain for my health.'

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say in Korean: 'I am in the middle of abstinence.'

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say in Korean: 'Is this a no-alcohol zone?'

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say in Korean: 'The doctor told me to abstain.'

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say in Korean: 'I'll have water because I'm abstaining.'

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say in Korean: 'I started abstaining yesterday.'

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say in Korean: 'Abstinence is hard but good.'

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say in Korean: 'I want to succeed in abstinence this year.'

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say in Korean: 'Please don't give me alcohol, I'm abstaining.'

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say in Korean: 'My skin got better thanks to abstinence.'

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say in Korean: 'I've been abstaining for a month.'

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say in Korean: 'I'm a teetotaler.'

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say in Korean: 'Abstinence is my New Year's resolution.'

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say in Korean: 'I broke my abstinence yesterday.'

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say in Korean: 'I will abstain starting tomorrow.'

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say in Korean: 'Abstinence is necessary for the liver.'

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say in Korean: 'I'm proud of my abstinence.'

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say in Korean: 'Let's abstain together.'

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say in Korean: 'I've never been better since abstaining.'

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen and identify the word: '건강을 위해 금주하세요.'

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

Listen and identify: '저는 지금 금주 중이라 못 마셔요.'

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

Listen and identify: '이곳은 금주 구역입니다.'

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

Listen and identify: '금주령이 선포되었습니다.'

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

Listen and identify: '금주를 결심한 이유가 뭐예요?'

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

Listen and identify: '금주한 지 벌써 일 년이에요.'

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

Listen and identify: '금주 캠페인에 참여하세요.'

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

Listen and identify: '금주가 건강에 미치는 영향.'

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

Listen and identify: '금주 성공을 축하합니다.'

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

Listen and identify: '금주를 깨지 마세요.'

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

Listen and identify: '금주와 금연은 필수입니다.'

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

Listen and identify: '당분간 금주해야 합니다.'

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

Listen and identify: '금주가 답입니다.'

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

Listen and identify: '금주 가이드라인.'

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

Listen and identify: '금주 1일차 브이로그.'

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

/ 182 correct

Perfect score!

War das hilfreich?
Noch keine Kommentare. Sei der Erste, der seine Gedanken teilt!