At the A1 level, you don't need to worry about the complex economics of '자본주의' (Capitalism). Instead, think of it as the 'world of money and buying things.' In Korea, you might see this word on the news or hear older people talk about it. It is made of two parts: '자본' (money/capital) and '주의' (a way of thinking). So, it's the 'money-first way of thinking.' You can use it simply to say 'Korea is a capitalist country' (한국은 자본주의 국가예요). Even at a basic level, knowing this word helps you understand why there are so many shops and businesses in Korea. It is the system where people work to earn money and use that money to buy what they want. It's a big, formal word, but it's the foundation of how life works in modern Seoul. Don't worry about the spelling too much yet, just try to recognize the '자본' part which is related to wealth.
For A2 learners, '자본주의' is a useful word to know when talking about society or history. You might learn it when comparing South Korea and North Korea. You can say 'South Korea has a capitalist system' (남한은 자본주의 체제입니다). At this level, you can start to use it with basic adjectives like '좋다' (good) or '나쁘다' (bad) to express simple opinions, though it is usually a neutral term in textbooks. You should also recognize the word '자본주의적' which means 'capitalistic.' For example, 'capitalistic idea' (자본주의적 생각). This level is about recognizing the word in headlines and understanding that it refers to the free-market system. You might also hear the slang '자본주의 미소' (capitalist smile) on TV shows, which refers to a fake smile people use at work to be professional. Knowing this word makes you sound more educated and aware of how Korean society is structured.
At the B1 level, you should be able to use '자본주의' in more detailed sentences. You can discuss the pros and cons of the system using words like '장점' (advantage) and '단점' (disadvantage). For example, '자본주의의 장점은 경쟁을 통해 발전하는 것입니다' (The advantage of capitalism is developing through competition). You will encounter this word frequently in intermediate reading passages about the 'Miracle on the Han River' or the development of Korean companies like Samsung. You should also be comfortable using particles like '-의' (possessive) to talk about 'the history of capitalism' (자본주의의 역사) or 'the problems of capitalism' (자본주의의 문제점). This is the stage where you move beyond just knowing the definition to understanding how the concept affects people's lives, such as the gap between the rich and the poor (빈부 격차).
As a B2 learner, '자본주의' is a core vocabulary word for discussing social issues, economics, and politics. You should be able to participate in a debate about whether capitalism is the best system for modern society. You can use advanced verbs like '비판하다' (to criticize), '옹호하다' (to advocate), and '분석하다' (to analyze). You will see this word in literature and films, where it is often used to critique the hyper-competitive nature of Korean life. For instance, you could analyze a movie like 'Parasite' by saying '이 영화는 자본주의 사회의 불평등을 보여줍니다' (This movie shows the inequality of capitalist society). You should also be familiar with related terms like '시장 경제' (market economy) and '자유주의' (liberalism) and be able to explain how they differ or overlap with capitalism. Your usage should be grammatically precise, using appropriate formal endings like '-습니다' or '-ㄴ다'.
At the C1 level, you are expected to understand the nuances and academic applications of '자본주의.' You should be able to discuss different types of capitalism, such as '신자유주의' (neoliberalism), '수정 자본주의' (modified capitalism), or '국가 자본주의' (state capitalism). You can read complex editorials and academic papers that use this word to explore deep structural issues in the global economy. You should be able to use the word in complex sentence structures, such as '자본주의가 가져온 물질적 풍요에도 불구하고, 정신적 빈곤은 심화되고 있다' (Despite the material abundance brought by capitalism, mental poverty is deepening). At this level, you understand the historical evolution of the term in Korea, from the post-war era to the present day, and can discuss how it intersects with Confucian values or modern individualism.
For C2 learners, '자본주의' is a tool for high-level philosophical and socio-economic discourse. You can critique the inherent contradictions of the system using terms like '모순' (contradiction) and '한계' (limit). You are likely reading works by Korean intellectuals who debate the future of 'post-capitalism' (탈자본주의) or 'humanistic capitalism' (인본주의적 자본주의). You can use the word in extremely formal settings, such as academic conferences or high-level business negotiations, with perfect command of register and nuance. You understand how the word is used rhetorically in political speeches to evoke specific emotions or historical memories. Your ability to use '자본주의' reflects a deep immersion in Korean thought, allowing you to discuss how the system shapes not just the economy, but the very psychology and identity of the Korean people.

자본주의 در ۳۰ ثانیه

  • 자본주의 (Capitalism) is the economic system of South Korea, emphasizing private ownership and free market competition.
  • The word comes from Hanja: 자본 (Capital) + 주의 (-ism), literally meaning the principle of capital.
  • It is frequently used in news, academic discussions, and pop culture critiques like 'Parasite'.
  • Commonly contrasted with 사회주의 (Socialism) and often associated with the 'Capitalist Smile' (fake professional smile).

The term 자본주의 (Jabon-juui) is a foundational concept in understanding modern South Korean society, economics, and history. At its core, it translates to 'Capitalism.' To understand this word, one must look at its Hanja roots: 자본 (資本) meaning 'capital' or 'wealth' and 주의 (主義) meaning '-ism' or 'principle.' Therefore, it literally means the principle of capital. In a practical sense, it refers to an economic system where private individuals or corporations own capital goods and make investments, production, and distribution decisions based on competition in a free market.

Economic Context
In Korea, 자본주의 is often discussed in contrast to the historical and political systems of the North. It is the engine that drove the 'Miracle on the Han River.' When Koreans talk about 자본주의, they are often referring to the competitive nature of their society, the importance of financial success, and the mechanisms of the global market.

현대 사회는 자본주의의 원리에 의해 움직입니다. (Modern society moves according to the principles of capitalism.)

You will encounter this word in news broadcasts, university lectures, and even in casual conversations about the cost of living or the housing market. It carries a heavy weight because Korea transitioned from a war-torn agrarian society to a hyper-capitalist powerhouse in just a few decades. This rapid change has led to both immense wealth and significant social pressure, making 자본주의 a frequent subject of critique in Korean films and literature (like 'Parasite' or 'Squid Game').

Societal Impact
The term is also used to describe the 'mindset' of modern life. For example, '자본주의 미소' (capitalist smile) is a common slang term for a fake, professional smile one puts on for work or service industries.

그녀는 자본주의 사회에서 성공하기 위해 열심히 일했습니다. (She worked hard to succeed in a capitalist society.)

Furthermore, discussions about 'late-stage capitalism' (후기 자본주의) are becoming more common among the younger generation (MZ generation) in Korea as they navigate high real estate prices and job competition. This demonstrates that the word is not just an academic term but a lived reality that defines their daily struggles and aspirations.

Global Perspective
In international relations, 자본주의 is the identifier for the Western economic model. Korea's identity as a 'Capitalist Democracy' (자본주의 민주주의) is a point of national pride in the context of its rapid development.

우리는 자본주의의 모순을 해결해야 합니다. (We must solve the contradictions of capitalism.)

그의 미소는 전형적인 자본주의 미소였다. (His smile was a typical capitalist smile.)

자본주의는 경쟁을 통해 발전한다. (Capitalism develops through competition.)

Using 자본주의 correctly involves understanding its role as a noun and how it pairs with various particles and verbs. Since it is a concept, it often appears as the subject of a sentence or as a modifier for other nouns. The most common particles used with it are -는/은 (topic), -가/이 (subject), and -의 (possessive).

As a Subject
When 자본주의 is the main topic of discussion, use the topic marker. '자본주의는 장점과 단점이 뚜렷하다' (Capitalism has clear pros and cons). Here, it sets the stage for a balanced argument.

자본주의 시장에서는 소비자가 왕입니다. (In a capitalist market, the consumer is king.)

When describing the system's functions, verbs like 발달하다 (to develop), 붕괴하다 (to collapse), or 확산되다 (to be spread) are frequently used. For example, '자본주의가 전 세계로 확산되었다' (Capitalism spread throughout the whole world). The particle -가 indicates that capitalism itself is the agent of the action.

Possessive Usage
The possessive particle '-의' is crucial. You will often see '자본주의의 폐해' (the harmful effects of capitalism) or '자본주의의 역사' (the history of capitalism). This connects the concept to its attributes or consequences.

자본주의의 가장 큰 특징은 사유 재산권입니다. (The biggest characteristic of capitalism is private property rights.)

In debate or academic writing, you might use more complex structures. '자본주의 체제 하에서...' (Under the capitalist system...) is a formal way to set the context of an analysis. It implies that the following statements are true specifically because of the rules of that system.

Object Usage
If you are analyzing or criticizing the system, it becomes the object. '우리는 자본주의를 깊이 있게 연구해야 합니다' (We must study capitalism in depth). Here, the object marker '-를' is used.

많은 학자들이 자본주의를 비판해 왔습니다. (Many scholars have criticized capitalism.)

그 영화는 자본주의 사회의 이면을 보여줍니다. (That movie shows the other side of capitalist society.)

자본주의 경제에서는 가격이 수요와 공급에 의해 결정됩니다. (In a capitalist economy, prices are determined by supply and demand.)

You might think 자본주의 is only for textbooks, but in South Korea, it's surprisingly common in everyday media and culture. Because the country's identity is so tied to its economic success, the word is constantly in the air. Here are the primary places you will hear it.

News and Media
Every evening news broadcast discussing the stock market, inflation, or government policy will mention 자본주의. It's the standard term for the economic framework. Journalists use it when comparing Korea's policies to those of the US or Europe.

전문가들은 자본주의의 미래에 대해 논쟁하고 있습니다. (Experts are debating the future of capitalism.)

In universities, particularly in the humanities and social sciences, 자본주의 is the starting point for almost every discussion. Whether you are studying history (the industrial revolution), sociology (class divide), or philosophy (Marxism vs. Liberalism), this word is the central pillar of the curriculum.

Cinema and Art
Korean cinema is famous for its critique of the system. Directors like Bong Joon-ho use 자본주의 to explain the motives of their characters. In interviews, you'll hear them say things like '이 영화는 자본주의의 어두운 면을 탐구합니다' (This movie explores the dark side of capitalism).

이 다큐멘터리는 자본주의의 역사를 다룹니다. (This documentary covers the history of capitalism.)

Social media also plays a huge role. Influencers might use the term '자본주의 맛' (the taste of capitalism) when showing off expensive meals or luxury items. It's a tongue-in-cheek way of acknowledging that money buys comfort and quality, often with a hint of self-awareness about the materialism involved.

Workplace Talk
In the office, you might hear it during discussions about performance-based pay or competition between companies. It's used to justify tough decisions: '그게 자본주의의 원칙이지' (That's the principle of capitalism, after all).

우리는 자본주의 경쟁 속에서 살아남아야 합니다. (We must survive in capitalist competition.)

자본주의의 발달은 인류에게 풍요를 가져다주었습니다. (The development of capitalism brought abundance to humanity.)

그는 자본주의의 원리를 잘 이해하고 있습니다. (He understands the principles of capitalism well.)

While 자본주의 is a straightforward noun, learners often make subtle mistakes in its pronunciation, its connection to similar-sounding words, and its conceptual application in Korean culture.

Pronunciation Pitfalls
The '주의' (ju-ui) part is tricky. In standard Korean, it's pronounced 'ju-ui,' but in rapid speech, many Koreans say 'ju-i.' However, as a learner, you should stick to the clear 'ui' sound initially. Also, don't confuse it with '주위' (ju-wi), which means 'surroundings' or 'around.' Saying '자본주위' would sound like 'around the capital' rather than 'capitalism.'

잘못된 발음: 자본주위 (Wrong: Capital-surroundings) vs 올바른 발음: 자본주의 (Correct: Capitalism)

Another mistake is confusing '자본주의' (Capitalism) with '민주주의' (Democracy). While they often go together in South Korea, they are distinct concepts. Learners sometimes use them interchangeably when talking about 'the Western system.' Remember: 자본주의 is economic, 민주주의 is political.

Overusing '-적'
Learners often try to turn it into an adjective by saying '자본주의인' (the capitalism one). Instead, the standard way to make it an adjective is '자본주의적' (capitalistic). Use this when modifying nouns like 'society' or 'thinking.'

자본주의적 가치관은 경쟁을 중시합니다. (Capitalistic values emphasize competition.)

Finally, be careful with the word '자본' (capital). In English, 'capital' can mean a city (Seoul is the capital). In Korean, the city capital is '수도' (sudo). If you say '서울은 한국의 자본입니다,' it sounds like Seoul is Korea's financial money, not its capital city.

Misusing Idioms
The slang '자본주의 미소' (capitalist smile) is very specific. Don't use it for a genuine smile or just a polite one; it specifically implies a 'fake smile for money/work.'

그는 정말 행복해서 웃고 있는데 자본주의 미소라고 하면 실례입니다. (It's rude to call it a capitalist smile when he's smiling because he's truly happy.)

자본주의 체제에서는 빈부 격차가 발생할 수 있습니다. (In a capitalist system, a gap between rich and poor can occur.)

우리는 자본주의와 사회주의의 차이를 배웠습니다. (We learned the difference between capitalism and socialism.)

To truly master 자본주의, you should know the words that often appear alongside it or serve as alternatives in different contexts. These range from technical economic terms to political ideologies.

시장 경제 (Market Economy)
This is the closest synonym. While '자본주의' focuses on the ownership of capital, '시장 경제' (Sijang Gyeongje) focuses on the mechanism of how goods are traded. They are often used together as '자본주의 시장 경제.'

한국은 시장 경제 체제를 따르고 있습니다. (Korea follows a market economy system.)

Another related term is 자유주의 (Jayu-juui), which means Liberalism. While 자본주의 is economic, 자유주의 is the broader philosophical and political belief in individual freedom and limited government interference, which provides the foundation for capitalism.

Antonyms for Contrast
To describe what capitalism is NOT, use '사회주의' (Socialism) or '공산주의' (Communism). These are the standard academic opposites used in historical and political discussions.

냉전 시대에는 자본주의와 공산주의가 대립했습니다. (During the Cold War, capitalism and communism were in conflict.)

In a more specific business context, you might use 영리주의 (Yeongni-juui), which means 'commercialism' or 'profit-ism.' This has a slightly more negative nuance, suggesting that profit is being sought at the expense of everything else.

Summary Table
WordNuance
시장 경제Focus on trade mechanics
자유주의Focus on individual rights
영리주의Focus on seeking profit only
물질주의Materialism (focus on things)

과도한 물질주의는 자본주의의 부작용 중 하나입니다. (Excessive materialism is one of the side effects of capitalism.)

자본주의는 끊임없이 변화하고 적응합니다. (Capitalism is constantly changing and adapting.)

현대 자본주의는 기술 혁신과 밀접한 관련이 있습니다. (Modern capitalism is closely related to technological innovation.)

چقدر رسمی است؟

نکته جالب

The word 'Capitalism' was translated into these specific Hanja characters in the late 19th century in Japan (Shinhon-shugi) and then adopted into Korean and Chinese. Before this, the concept didn't have a single specific name in East Asia.

راهنمای تلفظ

UK /t͡ɕabɔnd͡ʑu.i/
US /t͡ɕabɔnd͡ʑu.i/
Stress is generally even across syllables in Korean, but a slight emphasis may be placed on the first syllable '자'.
هم‌قافیه با
민주주의 (Minju-juui - Democracy) 사회주의 (Saho-juui - Socialism) 인본주의 (Inbon-juui - Humanism) 허무주의 (Heomu-juui - Nihilism) 개인주의 (Gaein-juui - Individualism) 낙관주의 (Nakgwan-juui - Optimism) 비관주의 (Bigwan-juui - Pessimism) 이타주의 (Ita-juui - Altruism)
خطاهای رایج
  • Pronouncing '주의' as '주위' (ju-wi), which changes the meaning to 'surroundings'.
  • Pronouncing '자본' as '재본' (jae-bon).
  • Dropping the 'n' in 'bon', making it sound like 'ja-bo-ju-ui'.
  • Over-emphasizing the 'ui' so it sounds like two distinct words.
  • Confusing the 'j' sound with a hard English 'z'.

سطح دشواری

خواندن 4/5

Common in news but requires understanding of abstract concepts.

نوشتن 4/5

Spelling '주의' correctly and using particles is key.

صحبت کردن 3/5

Pronunciation is straightforward once 'ui' is mastered.

گوش دادن 3/5

Easy to recognize in formal contexts.

بعداً چه یاد بگیریم؟

پیش‌نیازها

돈 (Money) 시장 (Market) 사회 (Society) 국가 (Country) 생각 (Thought)

بعداً یاد بگیرید

민주주의 (Democracy) 사회주의 (Socialism) 경제학 (Economics) 불평등 (Inequality) 경쟁 (Competition)

پیشرفته

신자유주의 (Neoliberalism) 부르주아 (Bourgeoisie) 프롤레타리아 (Proletariat) 물신주의 (Fetishism) 잉여가치 (Surplus value)

گرامر لازم

Noun + 주의 (-ism)

민주주의 (Democracy), 개인주의 (Individualism)

Noun + 적 (Adjective-forming suffix)

자본주의적 (Capitalistic), 역사적 (Historical)

Noun + 의 (Possessive)

자본주의의 역사 (History of capitalism)

Noun + 체제 (System)

자본주의 체제 (Capitalist system)

Noun + 하에서 (Under...)

자본주의 하에서 (Under capitalism)

مثال‌ها بر اساس سطح

1

한국은 자본주의 국가입니다.

Korea is a capitalist country.

N + 입니다 (to be)

2

자본주의는 돈이 중요해요.

In capitalism, money is important.

N + 은/는 (topic marker)

3

저는 자본주의를 배워요.

I learn about capitalism.

N + 을/를 (object marker)

4

자본주의 사회에는 가게가 많아요.

There are many shops in a capitalist society.

N + 에는 (in/at)

5

그것은 자본주의의 특징이에요.

That is a characteristic of capitalism.

N + 의 (possessive marker)

6

사람들은 자본주의를 좋아해요?

Do people like capitalism?

Interrogative sentence

7

자본주의에서 물건을 팔아요.

People sell things in capitalism.

N + 에서 (in/at location of action)

8

이 책은 자본주의에 대한 책이에요.

This book is about capitalism.

N + 에 대한 (about)

1

남한과 북한은 자본주의와 사회주의로 나뉘어 있습니다.

South and North Korea are divided into capitalism and socialism.

N + 와/과 (and)

2

자본주의 덕분에 한국 경제가 발전했습니다.

Thanks to capitalism, the Korean economy developed.

N + 덕분에 (thanks to)

3

자본주의 미소를 지으며 손님을 맞이합니다.

Greeting customers with a capitalist smile.

Participial construction

4

자본주의적 사고방식은 경쟁을 유도합니다.

A capitalistic mindset encourages competition.

Adjectival form -적

5

그는 자본주의의 원리를 공부하고 싶어 해요.

He wants to study the principles of capitalism.

-고 싶어 하다 (want to for 3rd person)

6

자본주의 사회에서는 자유가 중요합니다.

Freedom is important in a capitalist society.

Formal polite ending -습니다

7

우리는 자본주의의 문제점도 알아야 합니다.

We must also know the problems of capitalism.

-아야 하다 (must)

8

자본주의는 시장에서 결정됩니다.

Capitalism is determined in the market.

Passive voice -되다

1

자본주의의 가장 큰 장점은 개인의 창의성을 존중한다는 점입니다.

The biggest advantage of capitalism is that it respects individual creativity.

-는다는 점 (the fact that...)

2

그 영화는 자본주의의 어두운 면을 날카롭게 비판합니다.

The movie sharply criticizes the dark side of capitalism.

Adverb + Verb

3

현대인들은 자본주의 경쟁 속에서 피로를 느낍니다.

Modern people feel fatigue in the midst of capitalist competition.

N + 속에서 (inside/midst)

4

자본주의 체제가 붕괴할 것이라고 믿는 사람들도 있습니다.

There are also people who believe the capitalist system will collapse.

-ㄹ 것이라고 (indirect quotation/future)

5

정부는 자본주의의 부작용을 줄이기 위해 노력하고 있습니다.

The government is making efforts to reduce the side effects of capitalism.

-기 위해 (in order to)

6

자본주의는 사유 재산을 법적으로 보호합니다.

Capitalism legally protects private property.

Adverbial -게/-적으로

7

많은 국가들이 자본주의를 받아들여 성장을 이루었습니다.

Many countries achieved growth by accepting capitalism.

-아/어 (connective)

8

자본주의의 논리에 따르면 효율성이 가장 중요합니다.

According to the logic of capitalism, efficiency is the most important.

-에 따르면 (according to)

1

자본주의 사회에서 빈부 격차는 피할 수 없는 현실처럼 보입니다.

The gap between rich and poor seems like an unavoidable reality in a capitalist society.

-것처럼 보이다 (looks like)

2

그 학자는 자본주의의 역사적 변천 과정을 설명했습니다.

The scholar explained the process of historical transition of capitalism.

N + 적 (historical)

3

우리는 자본주의가 초래한 환경 파괴에 대해 고민해야 합니다.

We must worry about the environmental destruction caused by capitalism.

-가 초래한 (caused by)

4

자본주의적 가치관이 인간관계를 물질 중심으로 변화시켰습니다.

Capitalistic values have changed human relationships to be material-centered.

Causative -시키다

5

신자유주의는 자본주의의 한 형태로서 시장의 자율성을 강조합니다.

Neoliberalism, as a form of capitalism, emphasizes market autonomy.

-로서 (as a...)

6

자본주의의 모순을 해결하기 위한 대안적 경제 모델이 필요합니다.

An alternative economic model is needed to solve the contradictions of capitalism.

-기 위한 (intended for)

7

그는 자본주의의 혜택을 누리면서도 동시에 그것을 비난합니다.

He criticizes capitalism while simultaneously enjoying its benefits.

-면서도 (while/even though)

8

자본주의는 기술 혁신을 가속화하는 원동력이 되어 왔습니다.

Capitalism has been a driving force in accelerating technological innovation.

-아/어 오다 (has been doing)

1

후기 자본주의 사회에서 소비는 단순한 욕구 충족 이상의 의미를 지닙니다.

In late-stage capitalist society, consumption carries a meaning beyond simple desire fulfillment.

- 이상의 의미 (meaning beyond...)

2

자본주의의 내재적 모순은 주기적인 경제 위기를 불러일으킵니다.

The inherent contradictions of capitalism cause periodic economic crises.

내재적 (inherent/intrinsic)

3

그 논문은 자본주의와 민주주의의 긴장 관계를 심도 있게 다룹니다.

The paper deals in depth with the tense relationship between capitalism and democracy.

심도 있게 (in depth)

4

자본주의적 축적 양식은 노동의 소외를 필연적으로 동반합니다.

The capitalist mode of accumulation inevitably accompanies the alienation of labor.

필연적으로 (inevitably)

5

국가 자본주의는 정부가 시장에 적극적으로 개입하는 형태를 띠고 있습니다.

State capitalism takes a form where the government actively intervenes in the market.

-는 형태를 띠다 (take the form of)

6

자본주의의 세계화는 문화적 다양성을 위협하기도 합니다.

The globalization of capitalism also threatens cultural diversity.

-기도 하다 (sometimes does/also does)

7

그 작가는 자본주의 사회의 비인간성을 문학적으로 형상화했습니다.

The writer literary shaped the inhumanity of capitalist society.

형상화하다 (to shape/embody)

8

자본주의의 지속 가능성에 대한 의문이 제기되고 있습니다.

Questions are being raised about the sustainability of capitalism.

-이 제기되다 (to be raised)

1

자본주의의 전 지구적 확산은 거대 서사의 종말과 궤를 같이합니다.

The global spread of capitalism coincides with the end of grand narratives.

-와 궤를 같이하다 (to coincide/be in line with)

2

신자유주의적 통치성은 자본주의의 논리를 인간의 영혼까지 확장시킵니다.

Neoliberal governmentality extends the logic of capitalism even to the human soul.

통치성 (governmentality)

3

자본주의의 물신주의는 사물을 인간 관계의 매개체로 전락시켰습니다.

The fetishism of capitalism has reduced objects to mere intermediaries in human relationships.

전락시키다 (to degrade/reduce to)

4

우리는 자본주의 이후의 삶, 즉 탈자본주의적 상상력을 발휘해야 합니다.

We must exercise post-capitalist imagination, that is, life after capitalism.

즉 (that is/in other words)

5

자본주의적 생산 방식의 고도화는 고용 없는 성장을 초래하고 있습니다.

The advancement of capitalist production methods is causing jobless growth.

고도화 (advancement/sophistication)

6

자본주의의 유연성은 위기 때마다 스스로를 재편하며 생존해 왔습니다.

The flexibility of capitalism has survived by reorganizing itself during every crisis.

재편하다 (to reorganize)

7

그 철학자는 자본주의의 욕망 구조가 어떻게 주체를 형성하는지 분석했습니다.

The philosopher analyzed how the desire structure of capitalism forms the subject.

-는지 분석하다 (analyze how...)

8

자본주의의 도덕적 정당성에 대한 논의는 여전히 평행선을 달리고 있습니다.

The discussion on the moral legitimacy of capitalism is still running in parallel (never meeting).

평행선을 달리다 (to fail to reach an agreement)

مترادف‌ها

시장 경제 체제

متضادها

사회주의 공산주의

ترکیب‌های رایج

자본주의 사회
자본주의 체제
자본주의 논리
자본주의 미소
자본주의의 폐해
자본주의의 역사
자본주의의 위기
후기 자본주의
국가 자본주의
자본주의적 발상

عبارات رایج

자본주의가 낳은 괴물

— Someone who does anything for money. Often used jokingly.

그는 자본주의가 낳은 괴물이라서 돈만 주면 뭐든 해요.

자본주의의 맛

— The feeling of luxury or high quality that money can buy.

비싼 호텔에 오니 자본주의의 맛이 느껴지네요.

자본주의의 원리

— The basic rules of how capitalism works.

자본주의의 원리를 이해해야 투자를 잘 할 수 있어요.

자본주의의 모순

— The internal conflicts or problems within the system.

빈부 격차는 자본주의의 모순 중 하나입니다.

자본주의의 꽃

— Often refers to advertising or the stock market as the peak of the system.

광고는 자본주의의 꽃이라고 불립니다.

자본주의의 심장

— Refers to financial centers like Wall Street or Yeouido.

여의도는 한국 자본주의의 심장입니다.

자본주의의 세례

— Having been influenced or 'baptized' by capitalist culture.

그는 서구 자본주의의 세례를 듬뿍 받았습니다.

자본주의의 노예

— A person who is obsessed with money.

나는 자본주의의 노예가 되고 싶지 않다.

자본주의의 수혜자

— Someone who benefited from the system.

그는 자본주의의 최대 수혜자 중 한 명입니다.

자본주의의 그늘

— The poor or neglected areas of a capitalist society.

화려한 도시 뒤에는 자본주의의 그늘이 있습니다.

اغلب اشتباه گرفته می‌شود با

자본주의 vs 주위 (Surroundings)

Sounds similar but means the area around something. Pronounce the 'ui' in '주의' clearly.

자본주의 vs 민주주의 (Democracy)

Both end in '-주의' but one is economic (capital) and the other is political (people).

자본주의 vs 자본론 (Das Kapital)

The specific book by Marx, often confused with the general concept of capitalism.

اصطلاحات و عبارات

"돈이면 다 된다"

— Money solves everything (a cynical capitalist view).

자본주의 사회에서는 돈이면 다 된다는 생각이 팽배합니다.

Informal/Cynical
"유전무죄 무전유죄"

— Money equals innocence, no money equals guilt.

자본주의의 어두운 면을 보여주는 말이 바로 유전무죄 무전유죄입니다.

Critical
"개처럼 벌어서 정승처럼 쓴다"

— Work hard (even in lowly jobs) to earn money, then spend it like royalty.

자본주의 사회에서 성공하려면 개처럼 벌어서 정승처럼 써야지.

Proverbial
"돈이 돈을 번다"

— Money makes money (capital accumulation).

자본주의에서는 결국 돈이 돈을 버는 구조입니다.

Common Saying
"황금만능주의"

— Mammonism; the belief that money is almighty.

자본주의의 극단은 황금만능주의로 흐르기 쉽습니다.

Formal/Academic
"입신양명"

— Rising in the world and gaining fame (often through wealth).

자본주의 경쟁 사회에서 입신양명은 많은 이들의 꿈입니다.

Traditional/Formal
"승자독식"

— Winner takes all.

자본주의 시장은 때때로 승자독식의 모습을 보입니다.

Economic
"약육강식"

— The law of the jungle (survival of the fittest).

자본주의 경쟁은 약육강식의 원리가 지배하기도 합니다.

Critical
"부익부 빈익빈"

— The rich get richer, the poor get poorer.

자본주의의 고질적인 문제는 부익부 빈익빈 현상입니다.

Formal/Societal
"일확천금"

— Making a fortune at a single stroke.

자본주의 사회에서 일확천금을 노리는 도박은 위험합니다.

Common Saying

به‌راحتی اشتباه گرفته می‌شود

자본주의 vs 자본

Means capital/money.

자본 is the noun for the wealth itself; 자본주의 is the system built on it.

사업을 시작하려면 자본이 필요해요. (You need capital to start a business.)

자본주의 vs 시장 경제

Similar meaning.

시장 경제 is the mechanism of the market; 자본주의 is the broader social/ideological system.

우리는 시장 경제 원리를 따릅니다.

자본주의 vs 자유주의

Often paired with capitalism.

자유주의 is the political philosophy of liberty; 자본주의 is the economic system of capital.

자유주의는 개인의 권리를 중시합니다.

자본주의 vs 물질주의

A byproduct of capitalism.

물질주의 is the personal value system (materialism); 자본주의 is the economic structure.

그는 물질주의에 빠져 있습니다.

자본주의 vs 상업주의

Focus on selling.

상업주의 is the focus on commercial profit; 자본주의 is the entire system of ownership.

지나친 상업주의는 예술을 망칩니다.

الگوهای جمله‌سازی

A1

N은 자본주의 국가예요.

한국은 자본주의 국가예요.

A2

자본주의 덕분에 N이/가 발전했어요.

자본주의 덕분에 경제가 발전했어요.

B1

자본주의의 장점은 V-는 것이다.

자본주의의 장점은 경쟁하는 것이다.

B2

자본주의 사회에서 N은/는 피할 수 없다.

자본주의 사회에서 경쟁은 피할 수 없다.

C1

자본주의의 모순이 N을/를 초래했다.

자본주의의 모순이 환경 오염을 초래했다.

C2

N은/는 자본주의의 논리에 매몰되어 있다.

현대인은 자본주의의 논리에 매몰되어 있다.

All

자본주의 N (Compound)

자본주의 시장, 자본주의 논리

All

자본주의적 N

자본주의적 사고

خانواده کلمه

اسم‌ها

자본 (Capital)
자본가 (Capitalist/Person)
자본금 (Capital fund)
자본력 (Capital power)
자본시장 (Capital market)

فعل‌ها

자본화하다 (To capitalize)

صفت‌ها

자본주의적 (Capitalistic)

مرتبط

투자 (Investment)
이윤 (Profit)
경쟁 (Competition)
시장 (Market)
소비 (Consumption)

نحوه استفاده

frequency

Very high in media, education, and social commentary.

اشتباهات رایج
  • 자본주위 자본주의

    Confusing '주의' (-ism) with '주위' (surroundings). This is a common pronunciation and spelling error.

  • 서울은 한국의 자본입니다. 서울은 한국의 수도입니다.

    Using '자본' (financial capital) instead of '수도' (capital city).

  • 자본주의인 생각 자본주의적 생각

    Using the wrong adjective form. '-적' is the standard for concept nouns like this.

  • 자본주의를 비판하는 영화입니다. (Spelling) 자본주의를 비판하는 영화입니다.

    Sometimes learners write '자본주희' or other variations because of the tricky 'ui' sound.

  • 자본주의와 민주주의는 똑같아요. 자본주의는 경제고 민주주의는 정치예요.

    Treating capitalism and democracy as identical concepts. They are related but distinct.

نکات

Using the Adjective Form

Always use '자본주의적' when you want to say 'capitalistic'. For example, '자본주의적 가치' (capitalistic values).

The Smile Slang

Use '자본주의 미소' when joking with friends about how tired you are of being polite at work. It's a great way to bond over shared work culture.

Clear Enunciation

Make sure to distinguish '자본' (Jabon) from '일본' (Ilbon - Japan). If you mumble, people might think you are talking about Japanese-ism!

Context Clues

If you hear '자본주의' in a movie, look at the characters' surroundings. Is it a poor house or a rich house? This tells you how the word is being used (as a critique or a fact).

Learn the Roots

Remember '자본' means capital. If you see '자본' in any other word, you know it involves money or resources.

Formal Arguments

In formal writing, use '자본주의 체제' (capitalist system) instead of just '자본주의' to sound more professional.

The Cold War Link

Understand that '자본주의' is often linked to the US in Korean history books, as the US influenced the South's economic path.

The 'Taste' Slang

When you post a photo of a fancy steak, you can caption it '자본주의의 맛' (The taste of capitalism) for a humorous effect.

Headline Scanning

When reading economic news, '자본주의' is often shortened to just '자본' in compound technical terms. Keep an eye out for that.

Compare with Democracy

Always remember that '민주주의' (Democracy) and '자본주의' are the two pillars of South Korea. They are mentioned together constantly.

حفظ کنید

روش یادسپاری

JA-BON sounds like 'JApanese BONds' (a type of capital/money). JU-UI sounds like 'Jewelry' (something expensive in capitalism). So, Bonds + Jewelry = Capitalism.

تداعی تصویری

Imagine a giant golden 'K' (for Korea) sitting on a pile of money (자본) with a crown (주의/Master) on top.

شبکه واژگان

Money Investment Private Property Competition Profit Market Inequality Growth

چالش

Try to use '자본주의' in a sentence explaining why there are so many coffee shops in your neighborhood. (e.g., '자본주의 경쟁 때문에 카페가 많아요.')

ریشه کلمه

Derived from Hanja (Chinese characters used in Korean). 資本主義.

معنای اصلی: 자(資 - resources/wealth) + 본(本 - root/foundation) + 주(主 - master/main) + 의(義 - principle/meaning). Literally: 'The principle where wealth is the foundation'.

Sino-Korean (Hanja-derived).

بافت فرهنگی

Be careful when discussing '자본주의' with North Korean defectors; the word carries heavy political trauma for some, while representing freedom for others.

In the US/UK, 'Capitalism' is often debated in terms of 'Free Markets'. In Korea, it's often discussed in terms of 'Development' vs 'Inequality'.

'Parasite' (Gisaengchung) - A masterpiece exploring capitalist class divide. 'Squid Game' (Ojing-eo Geim) - A critique of the desperation caused by capitalist debt. 'Karl Marx's Capital' (Jabon-ron) - Often cited in Korean academic critiques.

تمرین در زندگی واقعی

موقعیت‌های واقعی

Economics Class

  • 자본주의의 원리
  • 시장 경제
  • 수요와 공급
  • 이윤 추구

News Broadcast

  • 자본주의 시장
  • 경제 위기
  • 물가 상승
  • 글로벌 경쟁

Movie Review

  • 자본주의의 어두운 면
  • 빈부 격차
  • 인간 소외
  • 사회적 비판

Political Debate

  • 자본주의의 한계
  • 복지 국가
  • 신자유주의
  • 공정 경쟁

Casual Conversation

  • 자본주의 미소
  • 자본주의의 맛
  • 돈이 최고
  • 경쟁 사회

شروع‌کننده‌های مکالمه

"자본주의 사회의 가장 큰 장점은 무엇이라고 생각하세요? (What do you think is the biggest advantage of a capitalist society?)"

"한국의 자본주의는 서구와 어떻게 다르다고 보시나요? (How do you see Korean capitalism differing from the West?)"

"영화 '기생충'이 자본주의를 잘 묘사했다고 생각하세요? (Do you think the movie 'Parasite' depicted capitalism well?)"

"자본주의 미소라는 말을 들어본 적 있으세요? (Have you ever heard the term 'capitalist smile'?)"

"자본주의의 문제점을 해결하려면 어떻게 해야 할까요? (What should be done to solve the problems of capitalism?)"

موضوعات نگارش

내가 생각하는 자본주의의 정의를 써보자. (Let's write down my own definition of capitalism.)

자본주의 사회에서 살면서 느끼는 장점과 단점은? (What are the pros and cons I feel living in a capitalist society?)

돈이 우리 삶의 가치를 결정하는 자본주의에 대해 어떻게 생각하는가? (What do I think about capitalism where money determines the value of our lives?)

자본주의 미소를 지어야 했던 경험이 있는가? (Have I ever had an experience where I had to put on a capitalist smile?)

미래의 경제 시스템은 자본주의와 어떻게 다를까? (How will future economic systems differ from capitalism?)

سوالات متداول

10 سوال

No, it is a neutral academic term. However, it is often used in social critiques, so the context can make it sound negative. In general, it describes the system that most Koreans live in and accept.

It refers to a 'service smile' or a fake smile one wears because it is part of their job to be polite to customers for money. It's a very common slang term.

Pronounce the 'u' (ㅜ) and 'i' (ㅣ) as a single diphthong. In fast speech, it sounds like 'ju-i', but 'ju-ui' is the standard.

Like most countries, Korea has a mixed economy, but it is fundamentally a capitalist system with significant government influence in certain sectors.

No, use '부유하다' or '부자' for wealthy. '자본주의' is only for the system itself.

The most common opposite is '사회주의' (Socialism) or '공산주의' (Communism).

Because Korea's rapid rise from poverty to wealth happened through extreme capitalist competition, which deeply affected the national psyche.

No, North Korea officially follows '사회주의' (Socialism) and '주체사상' (Juche), though some black markets (jangmadang) exist.

It means 'Late-stage capitalism,' referring to the current era of high consumerism and globalized finance.

Yes, in '자본가' (capitalist person), '자본금' (capital fund), and '자본력' (financial power).

خودت رو بسنج 200 سوال

writing

Write 'Korea is a capitalist country' in Korean.

خوب نوشتید! تلاش خوبی بود! پاسخ نمونه را ببینید.

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
writing

Write 'I learn capitalism' in Korean.

خوب نوشتید! تلاش خوبی بود! پاسخ نمونه را ببینید.

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
writing

Write 'The advantage of capitalism is competition.'

خوب نوشتید! تلاش خوبی بود! پاسخ نمونه را ببینید.

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
writing

Write 'There is a gap between rich and poor in a capitalist society.'

خوب نوشتید! تلاش خوبی بود! پاسخ نمونه را ببینید.

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
writing

Write 'We must solve the contradictions of capitalism.'

خوب نوشتید! تلاش خوبی بود! پاسخ نمونه را ببینید.

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
writing

Write 'Capitalism is money-ism.' (Simple)

خوب نوشتید! تلاش خوبی بود! پاسخ نمونه را ببینید.

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
writing

Write 'He has a capitalist smile.'

خوب نوشتید! تلاش خوبی بود! پاسخ نمونه را ببینید.

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
writing

Write 'Capitalism developed the economy.'

خوب نوشتید! تلاش خوبی بود! پاسخ نمونه را ببینید.

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
writing

Write 'I want to study the history of capitalism.'

خوب نوشتید! تلاش خوبی بود! پاسخ نمونه را ببینید.

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
writing

Write 'The dark side of capitalism is serious.'

خوب نوشتید! تلاش خوبی بود! پاسخ نمونه را ببینید.

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
writing

Write 'Capitalism' in Hanja.

خوب نوشتید! تلاش خوبی بود! پاسخ نمونه را ببینید.

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
writing

Write 'Capitalist mindset' using '-적'.

خوب نوشتید! تلاش خوبی بود! پاسخ نمونه را ببینید.

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
writing

Write 'Market economy is capitalism.'

خوب نوشتید! تلاش خوبی بود! پاسخ نمونه را ببینید.

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
writing

Write 'Many people criticize capitalism.'

خوب نوشتید! تلاش خوبی بود! پاسخ نمونه را ببینید.

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
writing

Write 'Neoliberalism spread worldwide.'

خوب نوشتید! تلاش خوبی بود! پاسخ نمونه را ببینید.

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
writing

Write 'Money' in Korean.

خوب نوشتید! تلاش خوبی بود! پاسخ نمونه را ببینید.

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
writing

Write 'South Korea' in Korean.

خوب نوشتید! تلاش خوبی بود! پاسخ نمونه را ببینید.

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
writing

Write 'Competition' in Korean.

خوب نوشتید! تلاش خوبی بود! پاسخ نمونه را ببینید.

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
writing

Write 'Private property' in Korean.

خوب نوشتید! تلاش خوبی بود! پاسخ نمونه را ببینید.

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
writing

Write 'Inequality' in Korean.

خوب نوشتید! تلاش خوبی بود! پاسخ نمونه را ببینید.

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
speaking

Pronounce: 자본주의

این را بلند بخوانید:

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
speaking

Say 'I like capitalism' in Korean.

این را بلند بخوانید:

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
speaking

Explain what a 'capitalist smile' is in Korean.

این را بلند بخوانید:

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
speaking

Discuss one problem of capitalism in Korean.

این را بلند بخوانید:

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
speaking

Summarize 'Parasite' in terms of capitalism.

این را بلند بخوانید:

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
speaking

Pronounce: 자본

این را بلند بخوانید:

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
speaking

Say 'South Korea is capitalist'.

این را بلند بخوانید:

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
speaking

Say 'Capitalism has pros and cons'.

این را بلند بخوانید:

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
speaking

Say 'Competition is fierce'.

این را بلند بخوانید:

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
speaking

Say 'We live in late-stage capitalism'.

این را بلند بخوانید:

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
speaking

Pronounce: 주의

این را بلند بخوانید:

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
speaking

Say 'Capitalist smile'.

این را بلند بخوانید:

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
speaking

Say 'Market economy'.

این را بلند بخوانید:

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
speaking

Say 'Social inequality'.

این را بلند بخوانید:

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
speaking

Say 'Neoliberal policy'.

این را بلند بخوانید:

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
speaking

Pronounce: 자본가

این را بلند بخوانید:

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
speaking

Say 'Private property'.

این را بلند بخوانید:

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
speaking

Say 'History of capitalism'.

این را بلند بخوانید:

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
speaking

Say 'To criticize capitalism'.

این را بلند بخوانید:

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
speaking

Say 'Inherent contradiction'.

این را بلند بخوانید:

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
listening

Listen and write the word: [자본주의]

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
listening

Listen to '자본주의 미소'. What does it mean?

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
listening

Listen to '자본주의의 장점'. What is being discussed?

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
listening

Listen to '빈부 격차'. What is the topic?

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
listening

Listen to '신자유주의적 통치성'. What is the complex term?

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
listening

Listen and write: [자본]

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
listening

Listen and write: [주의]

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
listening

Listen and write: [시장 경제]

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
listening

Listen and write: [부작용]

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
listening

Listen and write: [모순]

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
listening

Listen: '한국은 자본주의 국가입니다.' Is it true?

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
listening

Listen: '자본주의가 좋아요.' What is liked?

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
listening

Listen: '경쟁이 중요해요.' What is important?

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
listening

Listen: '비판을 받아요.' Is it being praised or criticized?

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
listening

Listen: '세계화의 영향.' What is the influence of?

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:

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