Cette page dans ta langue
English فارسی العربية Deutsch Español 日本語 한국어 Português 中文 हिन्दी
B2 noun #3,200 le plus courant 9 min de lecture

계층

gyechung
Entraîne-toi Exemples Notes et astuces 계층 en 30 secondes
Explication 계층 in your Level:
At the A1 level, the word '계층' (gye-cheung) is quite advanced, but you can think of it simply as 'groups of people' in a big society. Imagine society is like a tall building with many floors. Each floor is a '계층'. Some people live on the top floors, some in the middle, and some on the lower floors. In Korea, people use this word when they talk about the rich, the middle class, and the poor in news or school. Even though you might not use it every day to say 'hello' or 'thank you,' knowing this word helps you understand that Korean people think about society in layers. For now, just remember that '계층' means a group or a layer of people based on things like how much money they have or what job they do. It's a formal way to say 'kind of people' or 'group of people.'
Inscris-toi gratuitement pour lire l'explication complète
At the A2 level, you can start to recognize '계층' in simple news headlines or social studies topics. It is a noun that means 'social stratum' or 'class.' You will often see it combined with other words. For example, '소득 계층' means 'income group.' If you hear '상류 계층,' it means the 'upper class' or 'top layer.' The word is made of two Chinese characters: '계' (stairs) and '층' (floor). This makes it easy to visualize: society is like a staircase or a building with different levels. You might use it in a sentence like 'There are many groups in society' (사회에는 다양한 계층이 있다). It is more formal than the word '사람들' (people). When you see '-층' at the end of words like '중산층' (middle class), it comes from this word '계층.'
Inscris-toi gratuitement pour lire l'explication complète
At the B1 level, you should be able to use '계층' in discussions about social issues or economics. It refers to a social stratum divided by factors like income, education, and occupation. It's an essential word for discussing inequality or social structure. You should distinguish it from '계급' (class/rank), which is more about fixed positions or power struggles. '계층' is a more statistical and descriptive term. For example, you might talk about '계층 간의 갈등' (conflict between strata) or '계층 이동' (social mobility). In Korea, there is a lot of talk about how difficult it is to move from a lower '계층' to a higher one. You will also see it in technical contexts, like the 'OSI 7 layers' in computer networking, but its sociological meaning is much more common in daily life and media.
Inscris-toi gratuitement pour lire l'explication complète
At the B2 level, you are expected to understand the nuance and collocations of '계층' thoroughly. This word is a key component of academic and journalistic Korean. It describes the hierarchical structure of society based on socio-economic status. You should be familiar with phrases like '계층의 고착화' (the solidification of social strata) and '소외 계층' (marginalized groups). At this level, you can use '계층' to analyze complex social phenomena, such as how digital access creates a new 'digital stratum.' You should also understand its role in forming compound nouns like '고소득 계층' (high-income stratum) and how it differs from '신분' (hereditary status) and '계급' (rigid class). Using '계층' correctly in your writing or speaking will demonstrate that you can handle abstract concepts and formal registers effectively.
At the C1 level, '계층' becomes a tool for deep sociological and philosophical analysis. You should be able to discuss the theoretical frameworks of social stratification (사회 계층화) and how '계층' interacts with cultural capital, social networks, and political power. You will encounter this word in dense academic papers, legal documents, and high-level policy proposals. You should be able to use it to describe subtle distinctions, such as '신흥 계층' (newly emerging strata) or '차상위 계층' (the second-lowest income bracket in welfare terms). At this level, you should also be aware of the historical shift in Korea from a '신분' (caste) society to a '계층' (stratified) society and be able to articulate how this affects modern Korean identity and social tension. Your usage should be precise, reflecting an understanding of the word's objective, analytical tone.
Inscris-toi gratuitement pour lire l'explication complète
At the C2 level, your mastery of '계층' should be indistinguishable from that of a highly educated native speaker. You can use the word to navigate the most complex discourses on social theory, macroeconomics, and political philosophy. You understand the historical etymology and the subtle semiotic weight the word carries in various contexts—from the 'layers' of a software architecture to the 'stratification' of linguistic registers. You can critique how the term '계층' is used in political rhetoric to either highlight or obscure social realities. You are also comfortable with its more obscure uses in literature or specialized scientific fields. Your ability to use '계층' in conjunction with advanced grammatical structures and other high-level Hanja-based vocabulary allows you to express nuanced ideas about the structure of human civilization and the mechanics of social change.
Inscris-toi gratuitement pour lire l'explication complète
Entraîne-toi Exemples Notes et astuces

계층 en 30 secondes

  • Refers to social layers or strata based on wealth and status.
  • Commonly used in formal, academic, and journalistic contexts.
  • Differentiated from 'class' (계급) by its fluid, statistical nature.
  • Essential for discussing social inequality and mobility in Korea.

The Korean word 계층 (Gye-cheung) is a fundamental sociological term that refers to a social stratum or class. Unlike the more rigid and historically loaded term '계급' (class/rank), 계층 is often used in modern contexts to describe groups of people categorized by various socio-economic indicators such as wealth, education, occupation, or cultural capital. In daily Korean life, you will encounter this word most frequently in news reports, academic discussions, and government policy debates regarding social inequality and mobility. It represents the horizontal and vertical 'layering' of society, much like the geological layers of the earth.

Sociological Nuance
It views society as a continuum of layers rather than a binary conflict between owners and workers.

When Koreans talk about the 'middle class,' they often use the term '중산층' (Middle stratum), where the suffix '-층' is derived from the same root as 계층. This word is essential for understanding contemporary Korean discourse on 'Gold Spoons' and 'Dirt Spoons,' as these metaphors describe the difficulty of moving between different 계층. It is a neutral, descriptive term that allows researchers to segment the population into manageable groups for analysis.

정보화 시대에는 정보 격차로 인해 새로운 사회적 계층이 형성되기도 합니다.

The term is also used in technology and architecture to describe hierarchical structures or layers, such as 'application layers' in software engineering, though its primary use remains social. In a rapidly changing society like South Korea, the boundaries between 계층 are a source of constant public interest, especially regarding how education serves as a ladder (사다리) for movement between these strata.

Economic Application
Used to define income brackets like 저소득층 (low-income) and 고소득층 (high-income).

정부는 소외 계층을 위한 복지 정책을 강화하고 있습니다.

Furthermore, the word appears in discussions about 'generational layers' (세대 계층), reflecting the different experiences of the elderly who built the nation and the youth who navigate a highly competitive digital economy. Understanding this word is key to unlocking deeper comprehension of Korean news and social issues.

Cultural Context
Reflects Korea's transition from a Confucian caste system to a modern meritocratic but stratified society.

교육은 계층 이동의 가장 중요한 수단으로 여겨져 왔습니다.

다양한 사회 계층의 목소리를 경청해야 합니다.

Using 계층 correctly requires understanding its role as a noun that often functions as a modifier or the subject of sociological verbs. It is frequently paired with words like '이동' (mobility), '구조' (structure), and '갈등' (conflict). In formal writing, you will see it used to categorize populations based on specific criteria. For example, '소득 계층' (income stratum) is a standard way to discuss wealth distribution without the emotional weight of 'the rich' vs 'the poor'.

Verb Pairings
Often used with 형성하다 (to form), 세분화하다 (to subdivide), or 고착화되다 (to become fixed).

When constructing sentences, remember that 계층 is a collective noun. You don't usually say 'a person is a 계층,' but rather 'a person belongs to a certain 계층.' For instance, '그는 상류 계층에 속한다' (He belongs to the upper stratum). This distinction is vital for sounding natural in Korean. It is also used to describe non-human hierarchies, such as '데이터 계층' (data hierarchy) in computing, though this is specialized terminology.

최근 경제 위기로 인해 계층 간의 격차가 더욱 벌어지고 있습니다.

In academic essays, 계층 is indispensable. You might write about '계층의 고착화' (the solidification of strata), which refers to a lack of social mobility where people stay in the same social class they were born into. This is a major topic in Korean sociology and politics. Using this word correctly signals a high level of literacy and an understanding of societal mechanics.

Common Modifiers
Words like 다양한 (diverse), 특정 (specific), and 소외된 (marginalized) frequently precede 계층.

이 정책은 특정 계층만이 아닌 모든 국민을 대상으로 합니다.

Furthermore, 계층 can be used metaphorically in literature to describe layers of meaning or consciousness, although this is less common than its sociological usage. When you hear this word in a K-drama, it often highlights the tension between characters from different backgrounds, emphasizing the invisible walls that separate them based on their social standing.

Compound Phrases
계층 이동 (social mobility), 계층 갈등 (class conflict), 계층 구조 (social structure).

사회적 계층 상승을 꿈꾸는 청년들이 많습니다.

디지털 기술의 발달은 계층 구조에 큰 변화를 가져왔습니다.

You will hear 계층 most often in formal environments. If you watch the 8 o'clock news on KBS or MBC, you'll hear it in segments about the economy, social welfare, or election analysis. Commentators use it to explain which 'strata' of voters supported which candidate. It is also a staple of Korean documentaries that explore the lives of various social groups, from the elite residents of Gangnam to the marginalized elderly living in 'jjokbang' (tiny rooms).

Media Context
News anchors often say, '모든 계층이 골고루 혜택을 받을 수 있도록...' (So that all strata can receive benefits equally...).

In the workplace, particularly in HR or marketing, you might hear about 'target strata' (타겟 계층). Marketers analyze which age and income 계층 are most likely to buy a product. In education, teachers and professors discuss 'educational strata' and how to provide equal opportunities to students from all backgrounds. This word is the backbone of any serious discussion about the 'Korean Dream' and its current status.

이번 선거에서는 젊은 계층의 투표율이 당락을 결정지었습니다.

While not a word you'd use while buying groceries, it is common in coffee shop conversations when people discuss the news or their future prospects. You might hear someone complain, '개천에서 용 나기 힘든 계층 사회가 되었다' (It has become a stratified society where it's hard for a dragon to rise from a small stream), referring to the difficulty of upward mobility. It is a word that carries the weight of societal expectations and frustrations.

Educational Setting
Used in ethics and social studies classes to discuss 'social justice' (사회 정의).

우리나라는 중산 계층이 두터워야 경제가 안정됩니다.

In tech-heavy Korea, you'll also hear it in technical seminars. 'OSI 7 계층' (OSI 7 Layers) is a standard phrase for anyone studying networking. Thus, the word bridges the gap between the soft sciences of sociology and the hard sciences of engineering, though the former is much more prevalent in general conversation.

Political Speeches
Politicians promise to bridge the '계층 간의 벽' (walls between strata).

문화적 계층 차이가 취향의 차이로 나타나기도 합니다.

저소득 계층을 위한 주택 공급이 시급한 과제입니다.

One of the most common mistakes for learners is confusing 계층 with 계급. While both can be translated as 'class,' they have different connotations. 계급 (Class/Rank) usually refers to a hierarchical rank within a structured organization (like the military) or a rigid social class (like the Marxist proletariat). 계층 is more fluid and is based on socio-economic variables. Using 계급 in a modern economic discussion might sound overly political or archaic.

Mistake: 계층 vs 계급
Incorrect: 군대 계층 (Military stratum). Correct: 군대 계급 (Military rank).

Another mistake is using 계층 to refer to a single individual. You cannot say '그 사람은 계층이다' (That person is a stratum). Instead, you must say '그 사람은 특정 계층에 속한다' (That person belongs to a specific stratum). This is because 계층 describes the category, not the person themselves. Similarly, don't confuse it with '계단' (stairs), even though they share the first Hanja character '계' (階).

상류 계층 사람들의 생활 방식은 일반인과 다를 수 있습니다.

Learners also sometimes misspell it as '개층' or '계정'. '개층' is not a word, and '계정' means 'account' (like a social media account). Paying attention to the 'ㅕ' sound in '계' and the 'ㅡ' sound in '층' is essential for correct pronunciation and spelling. In speech, some people might accidentally use '계층' when they mean '세대' (generation), especially when talking about the 'younger generation' (청년층). While '청년층' is correct, just saying '청년 계층' is slightly less natural than '청년층'.

Mistake: Over-formalization
Avoid using '계층' in very casual settings, like with friends, unless you are discussing a serious topic.

부유한 계층과 가난한 계층 사이의 불평등이 심화되고 있습니다.

Finally, be careful with the word '신분' (social status). '신분' often refers to your legal or hereditary status (like 'citizen' or 'noble'), whereas 계층 is almost always about modern socio-economic grouping. Using '신분' to describe income groups is anachronistic and can make you sound like you're talking about the Joseon Dynasty.

Register Check
계층 is a 'Sino-Korean' word, making it inherently more formal than native Korean synonyms.

지식인 계층은 사회 변화를 이끄는 역할을 합니다.

다양한 계층의 사람들이 광장에 모였습니다.

To broaden your vocabulary, it's helpful to compare 계층 with its synonyms and related terms. The most direct alternative is -층 (layer/strata) used as a suffix. For example, '중산층' (middle class) or '빈곤층' (the poor). This suffix is extremely common and often replaces the full word '계층' when a specific category is already defined.

계층 vs 계급 (Class)
계층 is for statistical layering (income, education); 계급 is for power dynamics and fixed ranks (military, Marxism).

Another related word is 부류 (kind/sort/type). While 계층 is formal and sociological, 부류 is more general and can be used to categorize anything, including people's personalities or behaviors. For example, '그런 부류의 사람들' (that kind of people). It often carries a slightly negative or dismissive tone, whereas 계층 remains objective. 집단 (group) is another alternative, but it refers to any collection of people regardless of hierarchy.

그는 자신과 다른 부류의 사람들과 어울리는 것을 좋아합니다.

In more specialized contexts, you might see 서열 (order/rank). This is used when talking about a specific sequence or ranking, like '서열 1위' (ranked number one). 계층 is about layers, while 서열 is about the specific order within those layers. For example, within the 'upper stratum' (상류 계층), there might be a strict 'ranking' (서열) based on family lineage or specific net worth.

계층 vs 신분 (Status)
신분 implies a legal or birth-right status; 계층 implies an earned or economic status.

현대 사회에서는 신분 대신 경제적 계층이 중요해졌습니다.

Lastly, 등급 (grade/rating) is used for things like meat quality, product ratings, or credit scores. While you might talk about a 'credit stratum' (신용 계층), the specific rating an individual has is their 'credit grade' (신용 등급). Understanding these subtle differences will help you navigate the complexities of Korean social and technical language with precision.

Summary Table
계층: Stratum (Social) | 계급: Class (Power) | 부류: Type (General) | 등급: Grade (Rating).

모든 사회적 계층이 화합할 수 있는 길을 찾아야 합니다.

전문직 계층의 사회적 책임이 강조되고 있습니다.

How Formal Is It?

Le savais-tu ?

The character 층 (層) is the same one used for 'floor' in buildings (e.g., 1층, 2층). This makes the concept of 'social layers' very visual for Korean speakers.

Guide de prononciation

UK /kje.tɕʰɯŋ/
US /kje.tʃʰʌŋ/
The stress is equal on both syllables, though the second syllable '층' often carries more weight in formal speech.
Rime avec
관청 (Government office) 신청 (Application) 요청 (Request) 명칭 (Name/Title) 시청 (City Hall) 심청 (Character name) 결정 (Decision - approximate) 열정 (Passion - approximate)
Erreurs fréquentes
  • Pronouncing '계' as '게' (common even among natives, but '계' is standard).
  • Failing to aspirate the 'ㅊ' in '층', making it sound like '증'.
  • Using a round 'u' sound like 'choong' instead of the flat Korean 'eo/u' sound.
  • Misplacing the nasal 'ng' at the end.
  • Separating the syllables too much.

Niveau de difficulté

Lecture 4/5

Requires understanding of Hanja-based vocabulary and social concepts.

Écriture 4/5

Needs precision to distinguish from '계급' or '부류'.

Expression orale 3/5

Pronunciation is straightforward, but usage is restricted to formal topics.

Écoute 3/5

Common in news and documentaries; easy to recognize once learned.

Quoi apprendre ensuite

Prérequis

사회 (Society) 사람 (Person) 돈 (Money) 층 (Floor/Layer) 다르다 (To be different)

Apprends ensuite

양극화 (Polarization) 불평등 (Inequality) 기득권 (Vested interests) 복지 (Welfare) 모빌리티 (Mobility/이동성)

Avancé

계층화 (Stratification) 부르주아 (Bourgeoisie) 프롤레타리아 (Proletariat) 이데올로기 (Ideology) 헤게모니 (Hegemony)

Grammaire à connaître

-별로 (By/Per)

계층별로 소득을 조사했습니다.

-에 따라 (According to)

계층에 따라 문화 생활이 다릅니다.

-간의 (Between)

계층 간의 갈등이 심각합니다.

-적 (Suffix for forming adjectives)

계층적 구조를 이해해야 합니다.

-화 (Suffix for 'become' or '-ization')

사회가 점점 계층화되고 있습니다.

Inscris-toi gratuitement pour lire l'explication complète

Exemples par niveau

1

사회에는 여러 계층이 있어요.

There are several strata in society.

계층 (noun) + 이 (subject particle) + 있어요 (to be/exist).

2

부유한 계층은 돈이 많아요.

The wealthy stratum has a lot of money.

부유한 (wealthy) modifies 계층.

3

우리는 모든 계층을 도와야 해요.

We must help all strata.

모든 (all) + 계층 (noun) + 을 (object particle).

4

아이들은 다른 계층을 배워요.

Children learn about different strata.

다른 (different) modifies 계층.

5

이 계층은 학생들입니다.

This stratum is students.

이 (this) + 계층 (stratum) + 입니다 (is).

6

저 계층은 누구예요?

Who is that stratum?

저 (that) + 계층 (stratum).

7

우리 사회의 계층은 다양해요.

The strata in our society are diverse.

우리 (our) + 사회 (society) + 의 (possessive particle).

8

계층을 나누는 기준이 뭐예요?

What is the standard for dividing strata?

나누는 (dividing) is a present participle modifying 기준.

1

상류 계층은 좋은 집에 살아요.

The upper stratum lives in nice houses.

상류 (upper stream/class) + 계층.

2

중산 계층은 보통 사람들입니다.

The middle stratum is ordinary people.

중산 (middle property/class) + 계층.

3

저소득 계층을 위한 복지가 필요해요.

Welfare for the low-income stratum is necessary.

저소득 (low income) + 계층.

4

계층마다 생각이 다를 수 있어요.

Thoughts can be different for each stratum.

-마다 (each/every) attached to 계층.

5

그녀는 전문직 계층에 속해요.

She belongs to the professional stratum.

속하다 (to belong to) is used with the particle '에'.

6

다양한 계층의 목소리를 들어야 합니다.

We must listen to the voices of various strata.

다양한 (various) + 계층 + 의 (possessive).

7

정부는 소외 계층을 돕고 있습니다.

The government is helping marginalized strata.

소외 (marginalization/alienation) + 계층.

8

계층 간의 차이를 줄여야 해요.

We must reduce the differences between strata.

간 (between) is used to show relationship between strata.

1

한국 사회의 계층 구조가 변하고 있다.

The social stratum structure of Korea is changing.

구조 (structure) is a common noun paired with 계층.

2

계층 이동의 사다리가 사라지고 있다는 비판이 있다.

There is criticism that the ladder of social mobility is disappearing.

이동 (movement/mobility) + 사다리 (ladder).

3

교육은 계층 상승의 중요한 수단입니다.

Education is an important means of upward social mobility.

상승 (rise/ascent) refers to moving up the hierarchy.

4

정보 격차는 새로운 사회적 계층을 만듭니다.

The information gap creates new social strata.

격차 (gap/disparity) often leads to stratification.

5

특정 계층만을 위한 정책은 공정하지 않다.

Policies only for a specific stratum are not fair.

특정 (specific) + 만 (only) + 을 (object particle).

6

계층 간의 갈등을 해결하는 것이 과제입니다.

Solving conflicts between strata is the task.

갈등 (conflict) is a very frequent pairing with 계층.

7

부모의 경제력이 자녀의 계층을 결정하기도 한다.

Parents' economic power sometimes determines the child's stratum.

결정하다 (to determine/decide).

8

우리나라는 중산 계층이 두터워야 합니다.

In our country, the middle stratum must be thick (large).

두텁다 (to be thick/solid) describes a large population group.

1

최근 경제 위기로 인해 계층 양극화가 심화되고 있습니다.

Due to the recent economic crisis, social stratification is intensifying.

양극화 (polarization) + 심화되다 (to intensify).

2

이 소설은 다양한 계층의 인간 군상을 묘사하고 있다.

This novel depicts a variety of human figures from different strata.

인간 군상 (group of people/humanity) + 묘사하다 (to depict).

3

사회적 계층에 따라 언어 사용 습관이 다를 수 있다.

Language usage habits can vary according to social stratum.

-에 따라 (according to) shows the basis of the difference.

4

정부는 취약 계층을 위한 일자리 창출에 힘쓰고 있다.

The government is striving to create jobs for vulnerable strata.

취약 (vulnerable/weak) + 계층.

5

계층의 고착화는 사회의 역동성을 떨어뜨립니다.

The solidification of strata reduces social dynamism.

고착화 (solidification/fixation) + 역동성 (dynamism).

6

문화 자본은 계층을 구분 짓는 중요한 요소 중 하나이다.

Cultural capital is one of the important factors that distinguish strata.

구분 짓다 (to distinguish/demarcate).

7

소득 계층별로 소비 패턴이 확연히 차이 납니다.

Consumption patterns differ significantly by income stratum.

-별로 (by/per) + 확연히 (clearly/distinctly).

8

디지털 소외 계층을 위한 교육 프로그램이 마련되었습니다.

Educational programs for the digitally marginalized strata have been prepared.

마련되다 (to be prepared/arranged).

1

베버는 계급, 계층, 그리고 권력을 사회 불평등의 세 가지 축으로 보았다.

Weber saw class, status, and power as the three axes of social inequality.

Academic sentence using sociological terminology.

2

계층 간의 심리적 거리감을 좁히는 것이 사회 통합의 핵심이다.

Narrowing the psychological distance between strata is the core of social integration.

거리감 (sense of distance) + 사회 통합 (social integration).

3

신자유주의 정책이 계층 구조의 재편에 미친 영향을 분석해야 한다.

The impact of neoliberal policies on the reorganization of the social structure must be analyzed.

재편 (reorganization) + 미친 영향 (influence exerted).

4

부의 대물림은 계층의 폐쇄성을 강화하는 결과를 초래한다.

The inheritance of wealth results in strengthening the closed nature of social strata.

부의 대물림 (inheritance of wealth) + 폐쇄성 (closedness).

5

지배 계층의 이데올로기는 사회 전반에 큰 영향력을 행사한다.

The ideology of the ruling stratum exerts great influence throughout society.

지배 (ruling/dominant) + 행사하다 (to exert/exercise).

6

계층적 위계질서가 엄격한 조직에서는 창의성이 발휘되기 어렵다.

It is difficult for creativity to be displayed in an organization with a strict hierarchical order.

위계질서 (hierarchical order) + 발휘되다 (to be displayed/manifested).

7

다문화 가정은 우리 사회의 새로운 소외 계층으로 전락할 위험이 있다.

Multicultural families are at risk of falling into a new marginalized stratum in our society.

전락하다 (to fall into a degraded state) + 위험 (risk).

8

계층론적 관점에서 볼 때, 교육은 불평등을 재생산하는 기제가 될 수도 있다.

From a stratification perspective, education can also be a mechanism that reproduces inequality.

-적 관점 (perspective) + 재생산 (reproduction) + 기제 (mechanism).

1

사회 계층화 현상은 인류 역사의 보편적인 특징 중 하나로 간주된다.

The phenomenon of social stratification is regarded as one of the universal characteristics of human history.

보편적인 (universal) + 간주된다 (to be regarded/considered).

2

계층 간의 이동성이 저하될수록 사회적 갈등의 폭발 가능성은 커진다.

As mobility between strata decreases, the possibility of social conflict explosion increases.

-ㄹ수록 (the more... the more...) grammar structure.

3

포스트모던 사회에서는 소비 취향이 계층을 규정하는 핵심 지표가 된다.

In postmodern society, consumption tastes become the key indicator defining social strata.

규정하다 (to define/stipulate) + 지표 (indicator).

4

계층 구조의 유연성을 확보하는 것은 국가 경쟁력 강화의 필수 요건이다.

Securing the flexibility of the social structure is an essential requirement for strengthening national competitiveness.

유연성 (flexibility) + 확보하다 (to secure).

5

지식 정보화 사회에서의 계층 분화는 과거와는 다른 양상을 띤다.

Stratification in the knowledge-information society takes on a different aspect than in the past.

분화 (differentiation) + 양상을 띠다 (to take on an aspect).

6

엘리트 계층의 충원 방식은 그 사회의 개방성을 측정하는 척도가 된다.

The method of recruiting the elite stratum serves as a measure of the society's openness.

충원 (recruitment/filling a vacancy) + 척도 (scale/measure).

7

하층 계층의 생존권 보장은 민주주의 사회가 지향해야 할 기본 가치이다.

Guaranteeing the right to survival for the lower stratum is a basic value that a democratic society should aim for.

생존권 (right to survival) + 지향하다 (to aim for/pursue).

8

계층 간의 위화감을 조성하는 행위는 공동체의 결속력을 저해한다.

Actions that create a sense of incompatibility between strata hinder the cohesion of the community.

위화감 (sense of disharmony/incompatibility) + 저해하다 (to hinder/obstruct).

Synonymes

계급 부류 층 사회층

Collocations courantes

사회 계층
소득 계층
계층 이동
소외 계층
상류 계층
계층 갈등
계층 구조
특정 계층
계층별
지배 계층

Phrases Courantes

계층의 고착화

— The state where social strata become fixed and hard to change.

계층의 고착화는 청년들에게 절망감을 줍니다.

계층 간 격차

— The gap or disparity between different social strata.

계층 간 격차를 줄이는 것이 정부의 목표입니다.

중산 계층

— The middle class or middle stratum of society.

중산 계층이 튼튼해야 나라가 안정됩니다.

취약 계층

— Vulnerable or underprivileged groups in society.

겨울철에는 취약 계층에 대한 관심이 더 필요합니다.

계층 상승

— Moving up to a higher social stratum.

그는 노력 끝에 계층 상승에 성공했다.

계층 하락

— Falling to a lower social stratum.

사업 실패로 인해 계층 하락을 경험했다.

정보 계층

— Strata divided by the ability to access and use information.

정보 계층 간의 불평등을 해소해야 합니다.

문화적 계층

— Strata divided by cultural tastes and education.

문화적 계층에 따라 여가 활동이 달라집니다.

계층 재생산

— The process where social status is passed from parents to children.

교육이 계층 재생산의 수단이 되어서는 안 된다.

계층 의식

— The awareness of which social stratum one belongs to.

사람들은 각자 다른 계층 의식을 가지고 있다.

Souvent confondu avec

계층 vs 계급

계급 refers to rigid rank (military) or power class (Marxism), while 계층 is statistical and fluid.

계층 vs 신분

신분 implies legal or hereditary status (noble vs. commoner), whereas 계층 is socio-economic.

계층 vs 부류

부류 is a general 'kind' or 'type' and can be used informally or negatively.

Expressions idiomatiques

"개천에서 용 난다"

— A dragon rises from a small stream. It refers to someone from a low 계층 succeeding greatly.

요즘 세상에 개천에서 용 나기는 정말 힘들다.

Common
"금수저 흙수저"

— Gold spoon and dirt spoon. Refers to the 계층 one is born into.

그는 전형적인 금수저 계층에 속한다.

Slang/Modern
"그들만의 리그"

— A league of their own. Refers to activities exclusive to a high 계층.

그 파티는 상류 계층들만의 리그였다.

Colloquial
"사다리 걷어차기"

— Kicking away the ladder. When a higher 계층 prevents others from rising.

기득권의 사다리 걷어차기가 계층 이동을 막고 있다.

Political/Economic
"보이지 않는 벽"

— An invisible wall. The social barriers between different 계층.

두 사람 사이에는 보이지 않는 계층의 벽이 있었다.

Literary
"끼리끼리 논다"

— Birds of a feather flock together. Often used for people of the same 계층.

비슷한 계층의 사람들끼리끼리 노는 경향이 있다.

Informal
"그 나물에 그 밥"

— The same side dish and the same rice. Used when things/people in a group are all the same.

그 계층 사람들은 다 그 나물에 그 밥이다.

Idiomatic/Negative
"하늘과 땅 차이"

— Difference between heaven and earth. Used for the huge gap between 계층.

두 계층의 생활 수준은 하늘과 땅 차이다.

Common
"우물 안 개구리"

— A frog in a well. Someone who only knows their own small 계층.

자신의 계층만 아는 사람은 우물 안 개구리가 되기 쉽다.

Common
"그림의 떡"

— A rice cake in a picture. Something a lower 계층 can see but never have.

고급 아파트는 서민 계층에게 그림의 떡이다.

Common

Facile à confondre

계층 vs 계단

Both start with '계' (stairs).

계단 is a physical set of stairs; 계층 is a conceptual social layer.

계단을 올라가서 상류 계층 사람들을 만났다.

계층 vs 계정

Similar spelling and sound.

계정 means an account (bank, social media); 계층 means a stratum.

내 계정에 로그인해서 계층 간 격차에 대한 기사를 읽었다.

계층 vs 계절

Both start with '계'.

계절 means season (spring, summer); 계층 means stratum.

추운 계절에는 빈곤 계층이 더 힘들다.

계층 vs 계획

Both start with '계'.

계획 means a plan; 계층 means a stratum.

정부는 취약 계층을 위한 지원 계획을 세웠다.

계층 vs 기층

Similar sounding second syllable.

기층 refers to the base or foundation layer, often in a physical or metaphorical sense.

사회의 기층을 이루는 사람들의 삶을 들여다보다.

Structures de phrases

A2

사회에는 [Noun] 계층이 있다.

사회에는 다양한 계층이 있다.

B1

[Noun] 계층을 돕기 위해 [Action].

소외 계층을 돕기 위해 기부를 합니다.

B2

계층 간의 [Noun]가 심화되고 있다.

계층 간의 격차가 심화되고 있다.

B2

[Noun]는 계층 이동의 [Noun]이다.

교육은 계층 이동의 사다리이다.

C1

계층의 [Noun]화가 사회적 문제로 대두되다.

계층의 고착화가 사회적 문제로 대두되고 있다.

C1

[Noun]적 관점에서 계층을 분석하다.

사회학적 관점에서 계층을 분석하다.

C2

계층 간 위화감을 조성하는 [Noun].

계층 간 위화감을 조성하는 과소비 행태.

C2

계층 구조의 유연성을 확보하다.

정부는 계층 구조의 유연성을 확보하기 위해 노력 중이다.

Famille de mots

Noms

계층화 (Stratification)
계층론 (Stratification theory)
계층성 (Stratified nature)
계층구조 (Hierarchical structure)

Verbes

계층화하다 (To stratify)
계층화되다 (To be stratified)

Adjectifs

계층적 (Hierarchical/Stratified)

Apparenté

계급 (Class)
서열 (Rank)
층위 (Level/Layer)
신분 (Status)
격차 (Gap)
Inscris-toi gratuitement pour voir tous les exemples

Comment l'utiliser

frequency

Very high in academic, journalistic, and formal contexts. Low in casual daily speech.

Erreurs courantes
  • Using '계층' for a single person. → 그는 상류 계층에 속한다.

    계층 is a category, not a person. You must say someone 'belongs to' a stratum.

  • Confusing '계층' with '계급' in the military. → 군대 계급 (Military rank).

    For formal organizational ranks like the army, '계급' is the correct term.

  • Misspelling as '개층'. → 계층.

    The first syllable is '계' (gye), not '개' (gae).

  • Using '계층' for physical stairs. → 계단.

    Even though '계' means stairs, '계층' is only for conceptual layers.

  • Using '계층' for age groups. → 연령대 / 세대.

    While '청년층' works, '연령대' is usually better for age groups unless you're talking about their social status.

Astuces

Use with -별

Add '-별' to categorize things: '계층별' means 'by stratum'. It's great for data analysis.

Avoid '계급' for Money

When talking about wealth, '계층' is more neutral. '계급' sounds like you're talking about a revolution or the army.

Think of a Building

The '층' in '계층' is the same '층' in '1층' (1st floor). Society is just a multi-story building.

Pair with '이동'

The phrase '계층 이동' (social mobility) is one of the most common ways you'll see this word.

Don't confuse with '계정'

Check the last vowel. '계정' (account) ends in '정', '계층' (stratum) ends in '층'.

Connect to 'Spoons'

The 'Gold Spoon' (금수저) talk is all about the '계층' someone is born into.

Professionalism

Using '계층' in a speech or essay makes you sound much more educated than using '사람들'.

News Keyword

This is a 'news keyword'. If you hear it, the topic is likely economics, welfare, or politics.

IT Context

If you are in IT, remember '계층' for 'layers' in software or networking.

As a Modifier

You can use '계층 간' (between strata) to show how groups interact.

Mémorise-le

Moyen mnémotechnique

Think of a building (층) with a staircase (계). Society is a 'stair-floor' building where people live on different levels.

Association visuelle

Imagine a pyramid made of different colored layers. Each color is a different '계층' in society.

Word Web

사회 (Society) 소득 (Income) 구조 (Structure) 이동 (Mobility) 갈등 (Conflict) 상류 (Upper) 하류 (Lower) 중산 (Middle)

Défi

Try to write three sentences about your country's social '계층' using the words '다양한' (various), '격차' (gap), and '이동' (mobility).

Origine du mot

From Sino-Korean (Hanja) roots: 階 (계) and 層 (층). 階 means 'stairs' or 'rank', and 層 means 'floor' or 'layer'. Together, they literally mean 'stair-layer'.

Sens originel : A sequence of steps or layers, originally used for physical structures like stairs or multi-story buildings.

Sino-Korean (Hanja-based vocabulary).

Contexte culturel

Be careful when discussing someone's '계층' directly; it can be seen as judgmental or elitist. Use it for general social analysis rather than personal labels.

While English speakers often just say 'class,' Korean distinguishes between '계급' (power-based class) and '계층' (statistically-based stratum).

The movie 'Parasite' (기생충) is a masterpiece exploring the '계층' divide in Korea. The drama 'Sky Castle' focuses on the elite '계층' and their obsession with education. The drama 'Squid Game' highlights the desperation of the lowest '계층'.

Pratique dans la vie réelle

Contextes réels

News/Politics

  • 소득 계층 간 격차
  • 서민 계층 지원
  • 계층 갈등 해소
  • 지배 계층의 책임

Education/Sociology

  • 계층 이동의 사다리
  • 사회 계층화 현상
  • 교육과 계층 상승
  • 계층의 고착화

Marketing/Business

  • 타겟 계층 분석
  • 고소득 계층 겨냥
  • 계층별 소비 성향
  • 신흥 부유 계층

Software/Tech

  • 네트워크 7 계층
  • 데이터 계층 구조
  • 애플리케이션 계층
  • 계층적 아키텍처

Literature/Movies

  • 계층 간의 비극
  • 신분을 숨긴 계층
  • 계층의 벽을 넘다
  • 인간 군상과 계층

Amorces de conversation

"한국 사회에서 계층 이동이 가능하다고 생각하시나요?"

"요즘 뉴스에서 말하는 '소외 계층'은 누구를 의미할까요?"

"교육이 계층 상승의 유일한 방법일까요?"

"영화 '기생충'에서 보여준 계층 갈등에 대해 어떻게 생각하세요?"

"기술의 발전이 새로운 사회 계층을 만든다고 보시나요?"

Sujets d'écriture

내가 속한 사회 계층은 나의 가치관에 어떤 영향을 미쳤는가?

우리나라의 계층 격차를 줄이기 위해 가장 필요한 정책은 무엇인가?

계층 이동의 사다리가 사라진 사회에서 청년들은 어떤 꿈을 꿔야 하는가?

돈 이외에 계층을 결정하는 중요한 요소는 무엇이라고 생각하는가?

내가 만약 다른 계층에서 태어났다면 나의 삶은 어떻게 달라졌을까?

Questions fréquentes

10 questions

Mostly, yes. However, Korean has two words for class: '계급' (rigid/power-based) and '계층' (fluid/statistical). '계층' is the more common way to talk about income groups today.

You can't call an individual a '계층'. You must say they 'belong to' (속하다) a certain '계층'. For example, '그는 상류 계층에 속한다'.

It is grammatically correct, but usually '계층' is used alone as a collective noun. '다양한 계층' (various strata) is more common than '다양한 계층들'.

'중산층' is a compound word using the suffix '-층'. It is the most common way to say 'middle class'. '중산 계층' is slightly more formal and analytical.

Rarely. Usually, '층' is used for physical floors or layers. '계층' is almost exclusively for abstract hierarchies or social strata.

Yes, it is used in computer science for 'layers' in an architecture, like the 'OSI 7 layers' (OSI 7 계층).

It means 'marginalized strata' or 'underprivileged groups' who are left out of social or economic benefits.

No, it's a basic term learned in school, but it's considered a 'high-level' word because it deals with social concepts.

Pronounce '계' (gye) and '층' (cheung) with an aspirated 'ch'. Make sure not to say '증' (jeung).

Because Korea values social success and education highly, and many people feel that the 'ladder' (사다리) to move up is becoming harder to climb.

Inscris-toi gratuitement pour les astuces et notes

Teste-toi 200 questions

writing

Write a sentence using '사회 계층'.

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

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Translate: 'He belongs to the upper class.'

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

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Describe 'middle class' in Korean using '계층'.

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

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Write a sentence about 'social mobility'.

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

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Explain 'marginalized groups' in Korean.

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

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Write a sentence using '계층별'.

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

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Translate: 'Education is a ladder for social mobility.'

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

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Write about 'income gap' using '계층'.

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

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Explain 'ruling class' in Korean.

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

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Write a sentence using '계층 구조'.

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

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Translate: 'We should listen to various strata.'

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

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Write about 'vulnerable groups' and 'welfare'.

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

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Write a sentence with '계층 갈등'.

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

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Use '고착화' and '계층' in one sentence.

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

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Translate: 'Digital divide creates new strata.'

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

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Write a sentence using '전문직 계층'.

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

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Explain 'upward mobility' in Korean.

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

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Write about 'cultural strata'.

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

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Translate: 'The government supports the low-income strata.'

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

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Write a short paragraph about social strata (3 sentences).

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

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Pronounce correctly: 계층

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Pronounce correctly: 사회 계층

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Pronounce correctly: 소외 계층

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Pronounce correctly: 계층 이동

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Pronounce correctly: 계층 간 격차

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Say: 'There are many strata in society.'

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Say: 'We should help marginalized groups.'

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Say: 'Education is important for upward mobility.'

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Say: 'Conflict between strata is a problem.'

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Say: 'The middle class is stable.'

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Say: 'Income strata are divided.'

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Say: 'Social mobility is decreasing.'

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Say: 'Everyone wants to rise up.'

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Say: 'The gap is getting wider.'

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Say: 'Vulnerable groups need support.'

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Explain '계층' in simple Korean.

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Talk about 'Parasite' movie and strata.

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Say: 'Specific strata get benefits.'

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Say: 'Hierarchical structure is rigid.'

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Say: 'Listen to various voices.'

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
listening

Listen and write the word: 계층

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
listening

Listen and write: 사회 계층

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
listening

Listen and write: 계층 이동

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
listening

Listen and write: 소외 계층

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
listening

Listen and write: 계층 간 격차

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
listening

Listen and write: 중산 계층

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
listening

Listen and write: 저소득 계층

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
listening

Listen and write: 상류 계층

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
listening

Listen and write: 계층 상승

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
listening

Listen and write: 계층 갈등

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
listening

Listen and write: 계층 구조

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
listening

Listen and write: 특정 계층

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
listening

Listen and write: 취약 계층

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
listening

Listen and write: 계층별

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
listening

Listen and write: 계층의 고착화

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :

/ 200 correct

Perfect score!

Inscris-toi gratuitement pour t'entraîner

Contenu associé

C'tait utile ?

Commentaires (0)

Connectez-vous pour Commenter
Pas encore de commentaires. Soyez le premier à partager vos idées !