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A2 noun #9,500 le plus courant 10 min de lecture

독거노인

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Entraîne-toi Exemples Notes et astuces 독거노인 en 30 secondes

Explication 독거노인 in your Level:

At the A1 level, you don't need to use '독거노인' in your own speech, but it is good to recognize the parts of the word. '노인' (no-in) means an old person. '혼자' (hon-ja) means alone. So, a '독거노인' is an old person who lives alone. You might see this word in very basic news headlines or on signs at a community center. Think of it as 'Grandma or Grandpa living by themselves'. At this level, just remember that '노인' is about elderly people. If you want to say this simply, you can say: '할머니가 혼자 살아요' (Grandmother lives alone). This is much easier and more common for beginners. The word '독거노인' is like a big, formal label you see in books or on TV. It is not a word you use when talking to your friends about your family. Just know that when you see '독거노인', it is talking about a senior citizen who has no one else living in their house. It is a very important word in Korea because many old people live like this now.

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At the A2 level, you should be able to recognize '독거노인' as a specific social term. You might encounter it in reading passages about Korean society or in simple news clips. You should understand that this word is formal. It is made of three parts: '독' (alone), '거' (live), and '노인' (elderly). You can use it in a sentence like '독거노인을 도와야 해요' (We must help the elderly living alone). This level is where you start to distinguish between casual Korean and formal Korean. While you would say '혼자 사는 할아버지' in a story, you would see '독거노인' in a report. You should also know that this is a noun. You can add particles like -이/가 (subject) or -을/를 (object) to it. For example, '독거노인이 많아요' (There are many elderly living alone). It is an important word for understanding social welfare in Korea. You might also see it in the context of volunteering (봉사활동). Many students in Korea do volunteer work for '독거노인'.

At the B1 level, you should understand the social implications of the word '독거노인'. This isn't just a vocabulary word; it's a social issue. You should be able to discuss why the number of '독거노인' is increasing in Korea—mentioning things like '도시화' (urbanization) or '핵가족' (nuclear family). You should also be comfortable using it in more complex sentences with grammar like '-기 때문에' (because) or '-(으)며' (and/while). For example: '핵가족화가 심해지면서 독거노인이 급증하고 있습니다' (As the trend of nuclear families intensifies, the number of elderly living alone is rapidly increasing). You should also start to notice common collocations like '독거노인 지원' (support for the elderly living alone) or '독거노인 문제' (the problem of the elderly living alone). At this level, you should also be aware of the sensitivity of the word. You know it's a formal term used in sociology, news, and government, and you know not to use it when speaking directly to an elderly person.

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At the B2 level, you can use '독거노인' fluently in discussions about demographics, economics, and social welfare. You should understand the nuances between '독거노인' and similar terms like '1인 가구' or '고령자'. You can analyze the causes and effects of this social phenomenon. For instance, you might discuss how '독거노인' are at higher risk for '우울증' (depression) or '고독사' (lonely death). You should be able to read long articles or watch news reports that use this term extensively without needing a dictionary. Your sentences should be more sophisticated: '정부는 독거노인의 고립을 방지하기 위해 다양한 커뮤니티 프로그램을 운영하고 있습니다' (The government is operating various community programs to prevent the isolation of the elderly living alone). You should also understand the cultural shift from the traditional family support system to a state-led welfare system, and how '독거노인' represents the group most affected by this transition. You can also use the term in a professional or academic setting, such as a presentation on social issues.

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At the C1 level, you have a deep understanding of the historical and cultural roots of the term '독거노인'. You can discuss the word's Hanja roots (獨居老人) and how it relates to broader East Asian demographic trends. You should be able to critique government policies regarding '독거노인' and suggest improvements using advanced vocabulary like '사각지대' (blind spot), '복지 인프라' (welfare infrastructure), and '정서적 유대감' (emotional bond). You can understand the subtle emotional undertones when the word is used in literature or high-level journalism. You might explore the intersectionality of '독거노인', such as the differences between urban and rural '독거노인' or the gendered aspects (as women often live longer and are more likely to become '독거노인'). You should be able to write an essay or give a lecture on the 'Silver Crisis' in Korea, using '독거노인' as a central concept. Your understanding goes beyond the definition to the 'collective consciousness' of Korea regarding its aging population.

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At the C2 level, you possess a native-like grasp of '독거노인' and its place in the Korean lexicon. You can detect subtle biases or political leanings in how the term is used in different media outlets. You can discuss the word in the context of philosophical questions about aging, solitude, and the role of the state versus the individual. You are aware of the most recent academic research involving '독거노인' and can engage with complex data regarding this demographic. You can use the term in highly formal, legal, or poetic contexts with ease. You might also be aware of how the term is evolving; for example, how some activists are pushing for more humanizing language to replace '독거노인' in official records to reduce stigma. You can navigate the most complex social debates, such as the 'right to a dignified death' or the economic burden of an aging society, with '독거노인' as a key demographic focus. Your command of the word is indistinguishable from that of a highly educated native speaker, including an awareness of all its historical connotations and future implications.

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Entraîne-toi Exemples Notes et astuces

독거노인 en 30 secondes

Formal term for a senior living alone.
Commonly used in news and social welfare.
Highlights social isolation and elderly needs.
Derived from Hanja: Alone + Living + Elderly.

The term 독거노인 (Dok-geo-no-in) is a compound noun that serves as a vital demographic and social descriptor in modern South Korea. Etymologically, it is rooted in Hanja: 獨 (Dok) meaning 'alone' or 'single', 居 (Geo) meaning 'to live' or 'reside', and 老人 (No-in) meaning 'elderly person'. Together, it literally translates to an 'elderly person living alone'. While it may seem like a simple statistical category, the word carries deep sociological weight in the context of Korea's rapid transition from a traditional Confucian society to a hyper-modernized one. In the past, the concept of hyodo (filial piety) meant that multi-generational households were the norm, and living alone in old age was rare and often seen as a sign of family failure. However, with urbanization and the rise of the nuclear family, the number of seniors living independently has skyrocketed, making '독거노인' a frequent topic in public discourse.

Societal Context: This term is most frequently encountered in news reports, government policy documents, and social welfare discussions. It often highlights the vulnerabilities of the elderly population, such as social isolation, economic hardship, and health issues. For instance, the government often discusses '독거노인 지원 대책' (Support measures for seniors living alone) to address the growing concern of 'Godoksa' (lonely deaths).

최근 우리 사회에서 독거노인의 고립 문제가 심각한 사회적 이슈로 떠오르고 있습니다.

Translation: Recently, the problem of isolation among the elderly living alone has emerged as a serious social issue in our society.

Furthermore, the word is often associated with the 'Silver Industry' and 'Silver Welfare'. As Korea becomes one of the fastest-aging societies in the world, the '독거노인' demographic is no longer a small minority but a significant portion of the population that dictates urban planning, healthcare resource allocation, and community building. You will see this word on posters for community centers, in headlines about heatwave safety checks, and in non-profit donation campaigns. It is a word that evokes a sense of social responsibility and the need for communal care in a changing world where traditional family structures are no longer the primary safety net for the aged.

Nuance of 'Dok' (獨): The 'Dok' in this word is the same as in 'Doksin' (single/unmarried) or 'Doknip' (independence). It emphasizes the state of being solitary, which in the case of 'dokgernoin', implies a lack of immediate household support from children or spouses.

정부는 독거노인을 위한 무료 급식 사업을 확대하기로 했습니다.

In summary, when you see '독거노인', think of the broader social fabric of Korea. It is a word that describes a person, but it also describes a situation—one that requires attention, empathy, and policy. It is a key term for anyone wanting to understand Korean social issues, news, or non-fiction literature. It reflects the intersection of tradition, modernity, and the inevitable challenges of an aging population.

Using 독거노인 correctly requires an understanding of its level of formality and the contexts in which it appears. Because it is a formal, Sino-Korean word, it is most naturally used in objective descriptions, news reports, or when discussing social issues. It functions as a noun and can be the subject, object, or part of a modifier in a sentence. Below are detailed breakdowns of its grammatical applications.

As a Subject: When '독거노인' is the subject, it often precedes verbs related to living, increasing, or needing help. Example: '독거노인이 매년 증가하고 있습니다' (The number of elderly living alone is increasing every year).

많은 독거노인들이 명절에 외로움을 느낍니다.

Many seniors living alone feel lonely during traditional holidays.

In more descriptive settings, you might use it to modify other nouns, such as '독거노인 가구' (households of elderly living alone) or '독거노인 복지' (welfare for the elderly living alone). This compounding is very common in official documents. For instance, '독거노인 실태 조사' refers to a survey on the actual living conditions of seniors living alone.

As an Object: When used as an object, it typically follows verbs like '돕다' (to help), '지원하다' (to support), or '방문하다' (to visit). Example: '우리는 주말마다 독거노인을 방문합니다' (We visit seniors living alone every weekend).

지자체는 독거노인을 대상으로 건강 검진을 실시했습니다.

In creative writing or personal essays, the word might be used to evoke a sense of pathos. However, even in these cases, it retains its formal structure. If you are writing a letter or speaking directly to such a person, you would switch to '할머니' (grandmother) or '할아버지' (grandfather) or '어르신' (esteemed elder) to maintain proper Korean etiquette and honorifics. Using the word '독거노인' in a face-to-face conversation with the person it describes is considered rude and dehumanizing, as it labels them by their social status rather than their personhood.

Common Verb Pairings: - 독거노인이 늘어나다 (Seniors living alone increase) - 독거노인을 돌보다 (To care for seniors living alone) - 독거노인에게 봉사하다 (To volunteer for seniors living alone)

그는 독거노인들을 위해 매달 기부를 하고 있습니다.

By mastering these patterns, you can discuss one of the most pressing social issues in Korea with accuracy and appropriate formality. Whether you are analyzing a news article or participating in a debate about social welfare, '독거노인' is the essential term for this demographic.

While you might not hear 독거노인 in a casual conversation between friends at a cafe, it is ubiquitous in other areas of Korean life. Understanding these contexts will help you recognize the word and grasp the emotional and social weight it carries.

The Evening News (뉴스): This is perhaps the most common place to hear the word. News anchors use it when reporting on demographics, economic statistics, or social welfare. You might hear: '독거노인 100만 명 시대...' (The era of 1 million seniors living alone...). It is often linked with topics like poverty rates or the 'lonely death' (고독사) phenomenon.

오늘 뉴스에서 독거노인의 생활고에 대한 보도가 나왔습니다.

Today on the news, there was a report about the hardships of seniors living alone.

Public service announcements (PSAs) are another major source. During extreme weather—such as the freezing winters or the humid 'jangma' (monsoon) summers—the government broadcasts messages urging citizens to check on their neighbors, specifically mentioning '독거노인'. You will hear these announcements over loudspeakers in apartment complexes or rural villages.

Documentaries and Dramas (다큐멘터리 & 드라마): Documentaries like 'Human Theater' (인간극장) often feature the lives of '독거노인' to highlight human resilience or social neglect. In K-dramas, a character might volunteer at a center for '독거노인', or a storyline might revolve around a protagonist caring for an elderly neighbor who has no family.

이 다큐멘터리는 시골의 독거노인들의 일상을 담고 있습니다.

In university settings or social work environments, the word is used as a technical term. Students of sociology or social welfare will use it constantly when discussing '노인 복지' (elderly welfare). You might also hear it in political speeches, as politicians often promise better support systems for '독거노인' during election cycles.

Volunteer Circles (봉사활동): If you join a volunteer group in Korea, you will frequently hear this word. Groups often organize '연탄 배달' (briquette delivery) or '도시락 배달' (lunchbox delivery) specifically targeting '독거노인' in low-income neighborhoods like 'Daldongne' (moon villages).

이번 주말에 독거노인을 위한 도시락 배달 봉사가 있어요.

By recognizing the word in these specific environments, you start to see the 'social map' of Korea—where the elderly fit into the modern narrative and how the society views its responsibility toward its most isolated members.

Learning a nuanced word like 독거노인 involves more than just knowing its definition; it involves knowing when not to use it and how to distinguish it from similar terms. Here are the most common pitfalls English speakers encounter.

Mistake 1: Using it in Direct Address: As mentioned before, never call someone a '독거노인' to their face. It is an administrative label, not a title. If you are talking to an elderly person who lives alone, use '어르신' (Eoreusin - esteemed elder), '할머니' (Halmeoni - grandmother), or '할아버지' (Harabeoji - grandfather). Saying '안녕하세요, 독거노인님' would be incredibly awkward and offensive.

Wrong: 독거노인님, 식사하셨어요? Right: 어르신, 식사하셨어요?

A second common mistake is confusing '독거노인' with '홀몸노인' (Hol-mom-no-in). While they both refer to seniors living alone, '홀몸노인' is a more native Korean-based expression that emphasizes the person having no family at all (no children, no siblings), whereas '독거노인' simply describes the current living arrangement (they might have children, but they live separately). Using '홀몸노인' suggests a deeper level of absolute solitude.

Mistake 2: Overusing it in Casual Settings: If you are telling a friend about your neighbor, using '독거노인' might sound too much like a news report. Instead, say '옆집에 할머니 혼자 사셔' (The grandma next door lives alone). Reserve '독거노인' for when you are discussing the topic as a social phenomenon or in a formal report.

Casual: 우리 할머니는 혼자 사세요. Formal: 저희 할머니는 독거노인이십니다. (Only in a formal interview or survey context).

Finally, avoid using it to describe people who are not 'old' by societal standards. In Korea, this term is generally applied to those over 65. If a 50-year-old lives alone, they are simply part of a '1인 가구' (one-person household), not a '독거노인'. Using the term for someone younger can be seen as an insult to their age or health.

Summary of Misuse: - Direct Address: Don't use it as a title. - Context: Don't use it in casual chat about friends/family. - Age: Don't use it for middle-aged people living alone. - Synonyms: Don't confuse it with '홀몸노인' (no family vs. living alone).

그분은 독거노인이지만 자녀들과는 자주 연락합니다. (Correct usage: lives alone but has family).

To truly understand 독거노인, it is helpful to compare it with other terms that describe living situations or the elderly. Korean has a rich vocabulary for these nuances, reflecting its complex social hierarchy and family values.

독거노인 vs. 홀몸노인: 독거노인 (Dok-geo-no-in): Focuses on the physical act of living alone. They might have children who live in another city. 홀몸노인 (Hol-mom-no-in): Focuses on the lack of any family support. 'Hol-mom' implies having only one's own body to rely on. It sounds more tragic and isolated.

그분은 자식이 없어서 홀몸노인으로 불립니다.

Another modern alternative is 1인 가구 노인 (Elderly in a one-person household). This is a more contemporary, statistically-focused term that aligns with the broader trend of '1인 가구' (single-person households) across all age groups. It feels less 'heavy' than '독거노인' and is often used in modern urban sociology.

독거노인 vs. 고령자: 노인 (No-in): The traditional word for elderly. Some find it slightly dated or blunt. 고령자 (Go-ryeong-ja): Literally 'person of high age'. This is the preferred term in modern law and official policy (e.g., 고령자 고용법 - Employment law for the elderly). It sounds more respectful and clinical.

정부는 고령자를 위한 일자리 창출에 힘쓰고 있습니다.

Finally, there is 재가노인 (Jae-ga-no-in). This refers to elderly people who stay in their own homes rather than in nursing homes (yoyangwon). While many '독거노인' are '재가노인', the latter term is specifically used in social work to distinguish between home-based care and institutional care.

Comparison Table: - 독거노인: Living alone (administrative focus) - 홀몸노인: No family (emotional/vulnerability focus) - 어르신: Respectful title (interpersonal focus) - 고령자: Senior citizen (legal/policy focus)

Choosing the right word depends on your audience and your goal. If you are writing a research paper, '독거노인' is perfect. If you are volunteering, '어르신' is the way to go. If you are reading a news article, you will see '독거노인' and '고령자' used interchangeably to describe the aging population.

How Formal Is It?

Le savais-tu ?

The 'Dok' (獨) in 독거노인 is the same character used for 'Dokdo', the island that stands alone in the East Sea.

Guide de prononciation

UK /dɒk.ɡʌ.noʊ.ɪn/

US /dɑk.ɡʌ.noʊ.ɪn/

The stress is relatively even across syllables, typical of Korean, but the 'No' in 'No-in' often carries a slight emphasis.

Rime avec

초인 (Cho-in - Superman) 거인 (Geo-in - Giant) 외인 (Oe-in - Outsider) 폐인 (Pye-in - Ruined person) 부인 (Bu-in - Wife) 시인 (Si-in - Poet) 개인 (Gae-in - Individual) 증인 (Jeung-in - Witness)

Erreurs fréquentes

Pronouncing 'geo' like the English 'geo' in 'geography'. In Korean, it is a single vowel sound.
Merging 'no-in' into a single syllable. It must be two distinct sounds.
Making the 'k' in 'dok' too aspirated. It should be a crisp, unreleased stop.
Confusing 'no-in' with 'nong-in' (deaf person).
Mispronouncing the 'o' sounds as 'ow'. They are pure 'o' sounds.

Niveau de difficulté

Lecture 3/5

Easy to recognize in texts once the Hanja components are known.

Écriture 4/5

Requires correct spelling of the three Hanja-based syllables.

Expression orale 4/5

Pronunciation of 'geo' and 'no-in' needs care for natural flow.

Écoute 3/5

Very common in news, making it easy to practice listening.

Quoi apprendre ensuite

Prérequis

노인 (Elderly) 혼자 (Alone) 살다 (To live) 집 (House) 가족 (Family)

Apprends ensuite

고독사 (Lonely death) 사회복지 (Social welfare) 고령화 사회 (Aging society) 부양하다 (To support/provide for) 안부 (Well-being/Safety)

Avancé

인구 통계 (Demographics) 기초연금 (Basic pension) 노인 소외 (Elderly alienation) 실버 산업 (Silver industry) 세대 갈등 (Generational conflict)

Grammaire à connaître

-을/를 대상으로 (Targeted at/For)

독거노인을 대상으로 조사를 실시했습니다.

-에 의하면 (According to)

뉴스에 의하면 독거노인이 늘고 있습니다.

-기 위해서 (In order to)

독거노인을 돕기 위해서 기부했습니다.

-아/어지다 (To become/get)

독거노인 문제가 심각해지고 있습니다.

-ㄹ 뿐만 아니라 (Not only... but also)

그는 독거노인일 뿐만 아니라 몸도 아픕니다.

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Exemples par niveau

우리 할머니는 독거노인입니다.

My grandmother is an elderly person living alone.

A1 usage of the simple 'N은 N입니다' structure.

독거노인을 도와주세요.

Please help the elderly living alone.

Using the object marker -을.

혼자 사는 노인이 많아요.

There are many elderly people living alone.

A simpler way to express the concept of '독거노인'.

이분은 독거노인이에요.

This person is an elderly living alone.

Using the polite ending -이에요.

독거노인에게 밥을 줘요.

Give food to the elderly living alone.

Using the dative particle -에게 (to).

독거노인은 외로워요.

Elderly living alone are lonely.

Simple adjective usage.

우리 마을에 독거노인이 있어요.

There is an elderly person living alone in our village.

Using '있다' to show existence.

독거노인을 위한 선물이에요.

It is a gift for the elderly living alone.

Using '-을 위한' (for).

독거노인이 매년 늘고 있습니다.

The number of elderly living alone is increasing every year.

Using the present progressive form -고 있다.

정부는 독거노인에게 돈을 줍니다.

The government gives money to the elderly living alone.

Simple subject-object-verb structure.

독거노인들은 친구가 필요합니다.

Seniors living alone need friends.

Using the plural marker -들.

겨울에는 독거노인이 더 힘듭니다.

In winter, it's harder for seniors living alone.

Using the comparative '더' (more).

독거노인 지원 센터에 갔어요.

I went to the support center for seniors living alone.

Noun compounding: 독거노인 + 지원 + 센터.

우리는 독거노인 집에 방문했습니다.

We visited the house of a senior living alone.

Past tense -았습니다.

독거노인을 위한 봉사활동을 해요.

I do volunteer work for seniors living alone.

Combining nouns with '봉사활동'.

그 할아버지는 독거노인입니다.

That grandfather is an elderly living alone.

Formal ending -입니다.

독거노인의 고독사가 사회적 문제가 되고 있습니다.

The lonely death of the elderly living alone is becoming a social problem.

Using the possessive marker -의.

많은 독거노인들이 경제적으로 어렵게 살고 있습니다.

Many elderly living alone are living in economic hardship.

Adverbial form '어렵게' (difficultly/hardly).

독거노인을 위한 반찬 배달 서비스를 시작했습니다.

A side-dish delivery service for the elderly living alone has started.

Using the causative/passive '시작했습니다'.

가족이 없어서 독거노인이 되는 경우가 많습니다.

There are many cases where people become elderly living alone because they have no family.

Using '-아/어서' for reason.

독거노인의 건강을 확인하기 위해 전화를 합니다.

We call to check the health of seniors living alone.

Using '-(으)기 위해' (in order to).

독거노인 가구가 전체의 20%를 넘었습니다.

Households of elderly living alone have exceeded 20% of the total.

Using '넘다' (to exceed).

지자체는 독거노인 돌봄 서비스를 강화하고 있습니다.

Local governments are strengthening care services for seniors living alone.

Using '강화하다' (to strengthen).

독거노인들이 모여서 식사할 수 있는 곳이 생겼습니다.

A place has been created where seniors living alone can gather and eat.

Using '-(으)ㄹ 수 있는' (that can).

급격한 고령화로 인해 독거노인의 비율이 높아지고 있습니다.

Due to rapid aging, the proportion of elderly living alone is rising.

Using '-(으)로 인해' (due to).

독거노인을 위한 맞춤형 복지 정책이 필요합니다.

Tailored welfare policies for the elderly living alone are necessary.

Using the modifier '맞춤형' (tailored).

독거노인의 심리적 소외감을 해소하기 위한 노력이 중요합니다.

Efforts to resolve the psychological alienation of the elderly living alone are important.

Using '해소하다' (to resolve/relieve).

정보기술을 활용해 독거노인의 안전을 관리하고 있습니다.

Information technology is being used to manage the safety of seniors living alone.

Using '활용해' (utilizing).

독거노인 문제는 개인의 문제가 아니라 사회 전체의 문제입니다.

The problem of the elderly living alone is not an individual problem but a problem for society as a whole.

Using 'A-이/가 아니라 B' (Not A but B).

농촌 지역의 독거노인들은 의료 서비스 접근성이 낮습니다.

Seniors living alone in rural areas have low accessibility to medical services.

Using '접근성' (accessibility).

독거노인의 주거 환경을 개선하는 사업이 진행 중입니다.

A project to improve the living environment of the elderly living alone is underway.

Using '-는 중이다' (in the middle of).

독거노인들이 사회로부터 단절되지 않도록 해야 합니다.

We must ensure that seniors living alone are not disconnected from society.

Using '-지 않도록' (so that ... not).

독거노인의 빈곤 문제는 한국 사회의 어두운 단면을 보여줍니다.

The poverty of the elderly living alone shows a dark side of Korean society.

Using '단면' (cross-section/aspect).

독거노인을 대상으로 한 인공지능 돌봄 인형이 보급되고 있습니다.

AI care dolls targeted at the elderly living alone are being distributed.

Using '보급되다' (to be distributed/disseminated).

독거노인의 고립은 우울증과 인지 능력 저하로 이어질 수 있습니다.

Isolation of the elderly living alone can lead to depression and cognitive decline.

Using '-(으)로 이어지다' (to lead to).

지역 공동체가 독거노인의 안전망 역할을 수행해야 합니다.

The local community must perform the role of a safety net for the elderly living alone.

Using '역할을 수행하다' (to perform a role).

독거노인의 삶의 질을 높이기 위한 다각적인 접근이 요구됩니다.

A multilateral approach is required to improve the quality of life for the elderly living alone.

Using '다각적인' (multilateral/many-sided).

독거노인의 고독사를 예방하기 위한 조례가 제정되었습니다.

An ordinance was enacted to prevent the lonely deaths of seniors living alone.

Using '제정되다' (to be enacted).

현대 사회에서 독거노인은 복지 사각지대에 놓이기 쉽습니다.

In modern society, the elderly living alone are easily placed in the blind spots of welfare.

Using '사각지대' (blind spot).

독거노인의 정서적 안정을 위해 반려식물 키우기를 권장합니다.

Growing companion plants is recommended for the emotional stability of seniors living alone.

Using '권장하다' (to recommend/encourage).

독거노인 담론은 한국의 효 사상과 근대적 가치관의 충돌을 시사합니다.

The discourse on the elderly living alone suggests a conflict between Korea's filial piety and modern values.

Using '담론' (discourse) and '시사하다' (to suggest/imply).

독거노인의 증가는 인구 구조의 변화에 따른 필연적인 결과입니다.

The increase in the elderly living alone is an inevitable result of changes in the population structure.

Using '필연적인' (inevitable).

독거노인에 대한 사회적 낙인을 제거하고 포용적인 정책을 펼쳐야 합니다.

We must remove the social stigma against the elderly living alone and implement inclusive policies.

Using '사회적 낙인' (social stigma).

독거노인의 고독은 단순히 물리적 단절을 넘어 실존적 위기를 초래합니다.

The loneliness of the elderly living alone causes an existential crisis beyond mere physical disconnection.

Using '초래하다' (to bring about/cause).

독거노인 복지는 시혜적 차원을 넘어 기본적 권리로 인식되어야 합니다.

Welfare for the elderly living alone should be recognized as a basic right beyond a charitable dimension.

Using '시혜적' (charitable/beneficent).

독거노인의 주거 빈곤은 젠트리피케이션과 맞물려 더욱 악화되고 있습니다.

The housing poverty of the elderly living alone is worsening in connection with gentrification.

Using '맞물려' (in connection with/interlocked).

독거노인을 위한 공동체 주택은 새로운 대안적 주거 형태를 제시합니다.

Community housing for the elderly living alone presents a new alternative housing form.

Using '대안적' (alternative).

독거노인의 디지털 소외를 해결하기 위한 리터러시 교육이 시급합니다.

Literacy education to resolve the digital alienation of the elderly living alone is urgent.

Using '시급하다' (to be urgent).

Collocations courantes

독거노인 지원

독거노인 증가

독거노인 보호

독거노인 가구

독거노인 돌봄

독거노인 방문

독거노인 실태

독거노인 소외

독거노인 빈곤

독거노인 봉사

Phrases Courantes

독거노인 돌보미

— A social worker or volunteer who specifically looks after the elderly living alone.

독거노인 돌보미가 매일 어르신의 안부를 묻습니다.

독거노인 전수 조사

— A complete survey of all elderly living alone in a certain area.

시는 독거노인 전수 조사를 실시하기로 했습니다.

독거노인 응급 안전 서비스

— Emergency safety services (like sensors) provided to seniors living alone.

응급 안전 서비스 덕분에 독거노인이 구조되었습니다.

독거노인 공동 생활

— A program where multiple seniors living alone stay together to prevent isolation.

독거노인 공동 생활 가정이 인기를 끌고 있습니다.

독거노인 생활 관리사

— A professional job title for someone who manages the daily needs of seniors living alone.

생활 관리사가 독거노인의 집을 정기적으로 방문합니다.

독거노인 식사 배달

— Meal delivery services specifically for seniors who cannot cook for themselves.

독거노인 식사 배달 봉사자가 부족한 상황입니다.

독거노인 안부 확인

— Checking in on the well-being of a senior living alone.

폭설이 내리자 독거노인 안부 확인이 시작되었습니다.

독거노인 주거 지원

— Housing assistance provided by the government for seniors living alone.

독거노인 주거 지원을 위해 임대 주택을 공급합니다.

독거노인 고독사 예방

— Prevention of lonely deaths among seniors living alone.

고독사 예방을 위해 독거노인 관리를 강화합니다.

독거노인 문화 활동

— Cultural or recreational programs designed for seniors living alone.

독거노인 문화 활동 프로그램에 참여하는 분들이 늘었습니다.

Souvent confondu avec

독거노인 vs 독거

Just means 'living alone' but can apply to any age. '독거노인' specifically adds the 'elderly' part.

독거노인 vs 노숙인

Means 'homeless person'. While some 독거노인 are poor, they have a home. Don't confuse the two.

독거노인 vs 고아

Means 'orphan'. This is for children, whereas '독거노인' is for the elderly.

Expressions idiomatiques

"독거노인의 고독"

— Refers to the profound loneliness felt by seniors living without family.

독거노인의 고독은 말로 다 표현할 수 없습니다.

Literary

"자식 있어도 독거노인"

— A phrase used to describe the irony of having children who don't visit or care for their parents.

자식이 셋이나 있어도 결국 독거노인이 되었네요.

Colloquial/Sad

"독거노인 100만 시대"

— A journalistic phrase highlighting the massive scale of the phenomenon.

독거노인 100만 시대를 맞아 사회적 안전망이 필요합니다.

Journalistic

"홀로 남겨진 노인"

— A more poetic way to describe the state of being a 독거노인.

홀로 남겨진 노인들의 눈물을 닦아주어야 합니다.

Poetic

"사회로부터 잊혀진 독거노인"

— Refers to those who are neglected and forgotten by the community.

우리는 사회로부터 잊혀진 독거노인들에게 관심을 가져야 합니다.

Rhetorical

"독거노인의 겨울나기"

— Specifically refers to the struggle of seniors living alone to survive the cold winter.

독거노인의 겨울나기를 돕기 위해 연탄을 배달합니다.

Common

"벽과 대화하는 독거노인"

— A vivid description of extreme isolation where the senior has no one to talk to.

벽과 대화하는 독거노인이 없도록 말동무가 되어주세요.

Descriptive

"독거노인의 빈 자리"

— Refers to the social or familial void left by an isolated senior's absence.

그 독거노인의 빈 자리는 이웃들이 채워주었습니다.

Sentimental

"등 굽은 독거노인"

— A stereotypical visual description emphasizing frailty and solitude.

등 굽은 독거노인이 무거운 짐을 들고 가고 있었습니다.

Descriptive

"창살 없는 감옥에 사는 독거노인"

— Metaphor for seniors who are housebound and alone, feeling trapped.

그들에게 집은 창살 없는 감옥이나 마찬가지입니다.

Metaphorical

Facile à confondre

독거노인 vs 홀몸노인

Both mean elderly living alone.

'독거노인' is the official term for living arrangement. '홀몸노인' implies they have absolutely no family anywhere.

그는 독거노인이지만 주말마다 아들이 찾아온다. (He is a dokgernoin but his son visits.)

독거노인 vs 독신자

Both mean living alone/single.

'독신자' is usually for younger or middle-aged people choosing to be single. '독거노인' is for seniors.

그는 결혼을 안 한 독신자다.

독거노인 vs 고령자

Both refer to old people.

'고령자' is a general term for seniors. '독거노인' is a specific subset who live alone.

지하철은 고령자에게 무료입니다.

독거노인 vs 어르신

Both refer to old people.

'어르신' is an honorific title used in speaking. '독거노인' is a descriptive noun used in writing.

어르신, 이쪽에 앉으세요.

독거노인 vs 1인 가구

Both involve living alone.

'1인 가구' is the general term for a one-person household of any age. '독거노인' is specific to the elderly.

요즘은 1인 가구가 대세입니다.

Structures de phrases

N은 독거노인입니다.

그분은 독거노인입니다.

독거노인을 V-고 싶어요.

독거노인을 돕고 싶어요.

독거노인이 늘어나는 이유는 N 때문입니다.

독거노인이 늘어나는 이유는 핵가족화 때문입니다.

독거노인을 위한 N이/가 마련되어야 합니다.

독거노인을 위한 대책이 마련되어야 합니다.

독거노인의 N은/는 사회적 문제로 대두되고 있습니다.

독거노인의 고립은 사회적 문제로 대두되고 있습니다.

독거노인 담론을 통해 N을/를 재조명할 수 있습니다.

독거노인 담론을 통해 가족의 의미를 재조명할 수 있습니다.

독거노인에게 N을/를 배달합니다.

독거노인에게 도시락을 배달합니다.

우리 동네에는 독거노인이 많아요.

Famille de mots

Noms

노인 (Elderly person)

고령 (High age)

독신 (Single life)

거주 (Residence)

Verbes

독거하다 (To live alone - rarely used alone)

거주하다 (To reside)

늙다 (To grow old)

Adjectifs

노쇠하다 (To be infirm with age)

고독하다 (To be lonely)

Apparenté

고독사 (Lonely death)

실버타운 (Silver town/Retirement home)

경로당 (Senior center)

효도 (Filial piety)

노령연금 (Old-age pension)

Inscris-toi gratuitement pour voir tous les exemples

Comment l'utiliser

frequency

Extremely high in news, government, and social welfare contexts.

Erreurs courantes

Calling an elderly person '독거노인' to their face. → Calling them '어르신' or '할머니/할아버지'.
Labeling someone by their administrative status is impersonal and can be seen as rude. '어르신' is the respectful title.
Spelling it as '독고노인'. → 독거노인
People often confuse it with '독고' (as in the surname Dokgo), but the correct Hanja for living is 'Geo' (居).
Using it for a young person living alone. → 1인 가구 or 자취생.
The '노인' part specifically means elderly. Using it for a young person is factually wrong and might sound like a joke about them being old.
Thinking it means 'homeless'. → 노숙인 (Homeless).
A '독거노인' has a home but lives alone. Confusing the two can lead to serious misunderstandings in social discussions.
Using it in a very casual, lighthearted story. → 혼자 사시는 할머니.
The word has a heavy, formal, and slightly tragic nuance. It doesn't fit in a lighthearted or funny story.

Astuces

Formal Contexts Only

Use '독거노인' in your Korean essays or when discussing news. It shows you have a high-level, academic vocabulary. Avoid it in casual chats about your own family to sound more natural.

Polite Alternatives

When volunteering or meeting seniors, always use '어르신' (Eoreusin). It is the most respectful way to address or refer to an elderly person in their presence.

Noun Compounding

'독거노인' is almost always followed by other nouns like '문제' (problem), '지원' (support), or '가구' (household). Learn these as set phrases.

Social Sensitivity

Understand that this word carries a sense of sadness in Korea. It represents a loss of traditional family values. Use it with empathy when discussing social issues.

News Keywords

If you hear '독거노인' on the news, the next words will likely be '빈곤' (poverty), '고립' (isolation), or '복지' (welfare). This helps you predict the topic.

Spelling Check

Remember the middle syllable is '거' (to live), not '고'. It's 'Dok-GEO-no-in'. 'Geo' as in 'Geoju' (residence).

Hanja Power

Learning the Hanja 獨 (Dok - Alone) will help you understand other words like 독신 (single) and 독학 (self-study). It's a very productive root!

Syllable Clarity

Don't drop the 'in' at the end. 'No-in' (老人) means elderly person. If you just say 'Dok-geo-no', it makes no sense.

Global Perspective

Compare '독거노인' with the situation in your own country. Is there a similar formal term? This helps you internalize the word's function.

Look for Statistics

When reading Korean news, look for charts. They often have '독거노인' as a category in the legend. It's a great way to see the word in action.

Mémorise-le

Moyen mnémotechnique

Think of 'DOCK' (Dok) where a single boat stays, 'GO' (Geo) as in 'where do they live?', and 'NO-IN' as in 'No-one in' the house with them. DOCK-GO-NO-IN.

Association visuelle

Imagine an old person (노인) sitting on a solitary chair in an empty room (독거).

Word Web

노인 (Elderly) 혼자 (Alone) 가족 (Family) 복지 (Welfare) 고독 (Loneliness) 지원 (Support) 정부 (Government) 사회 (Society)

Défi

Try to find one news article today that uses the word '독거노인' and summarize the main problem it describes.

Origine du mot

The word is a Sino-Korean compound. It combines 'Dok' (alone), 'Geo' (living), and 'Noin' (elderly person). This structure is typical for formal and administrative Korean vocabulary.

Sens originel : A person of advanced age residing in solitude.

Sino-Korean (Hanja-based).

Contexte culturel

Use with care. It is a social label, not a personal identifier. Always prefer '어르신' when interacting with individuals.

In English, we might say 'seniors living alone' or 'isolated elderly'. The Korean term feels slightly more clinical and is used more frequently as a specific social category.

The documentary 'My Love, Don't Cross That River' touches on the themes of elderly life and solitude. The film 'Poetry' (시) depicts the life of an elderly woman facing isolation. Numerous Korean news specials titled 'The Reality of Dokgernoin'.

Pratique dans la vie réelle

Contextes réels

News Report

독거노인 급증
생활고를 겪는
대책 마련 시급
조사 결과

Volunteer Work

도시락 배달
말동무 봉사
집수리 지원
안부 전화

Government Office

복지 대상자
지원금 신청
방문 상담
현황 파악

Documentary

홀로 지내는
자식들의 빈자리
쓸쓸한 일상
이웃의 관심

Sociology Class

핵가족화 현상
부양 의식 변화
사회적 고립
복지 사각지대

Amorces de conversation

"요즘 한국에 독거노인이 정말 많아진 것 같아요. (It seems there are really many elderly living alone in Korea lately.)"

"독거노인을 돕기 위해 어떤 활동을 할 수 있을까요? (What activities can we do to help the elderly living alone?)"

"뉴스에서 독거노인 문제를 봤는데 정말 안타까웠어요. (I saw the problem of elderly living alone on the news and it was so sad.)"

"우리 동네에도 독거노인 분들이 꽤 계시는 것 같아요. (I think there are quite a few elderly living alone in our neighborhood too.)"

"정부가 독거노인을 위해 더 많은 지원을 해야 한다고 생각하세요? (Do you think the government should provide more support for the elderly living alone?)"

Sujets d'écriture

Write about a time you saw an elderly person living alone. How did it make you feel? (독거노인을 본 적이 있나요? 그때 어떤 기분이 들었나요?)

What are the benefits and drawbacks of living alone in old age? (노년에 혼자 사는 것의 장점과 단점은 무엇일까요?)

If you were a social worker, how would you help the '독거노인' in your area? (당신이 사회복지사라면 지역의 독거노인들을 어떻게 돕겠습니까?)

How has the concept of family changed in your country compared to Korea? (당신의 나라와 한국의 가족 개념은 어떻게 다른가요?)

Describe a dream community that supports its elderly members perfectly. (노인들을 완벽하게 지원하는 꿈의 공동체를 묘사해 보세요.)

Questions fréquentes

10 questions

It is a neutral, formal word used in reports and news. However, it is not used as a polite way to address someone directly. In a direct conversation, you should use '어르신' or '할머니/할아버지' instead. Using '독거노인' to a person's face can sound cold or like you are labeling them as a social problem.

In South Korea, '노인' (elderly) usually refers to people aged 65 and older. Therefore, a '독거노인' is typically someone 65 or older who lives alone. If someone is 50 and lives alone, they are just called a '1인 가구' (one-person household).

The '독' (獨) comes from the Hanja for 'alone'. It is the same character used in '독립' (independence) and '독신' (single). It emphasizes that the person is residing without any other household members.

No, '독거노인' refers to people who have a place to live (residence) but live there alone. A homeless person is called '노숙인' in Korean. While some seniors living alone may be poor, they are not necessarily homeless.

You can use it if you are describing her situation in a very formal context, like an interview or a medical form. But in casual conversation, you would just say '우리 할머니는 혼자 사셔요' (My grandmother lives alone).

'Godoksa' (고독사) means 'lonely death'. It is a tragic phenomenon often associated with '독거노인' who pass away alone and are not discovered for a long time. The government uses the term '독거노인' when creating policies to prevent 'Godoksa'.

Yes, the number is increasing rapidly due to the aging population and the breakdown of the traditional extended family. It is one of the most significant social issues in Korea today, often discussed in relation to the 'Silver Crisis'.

The Korean government and various NGOs provide lunchbox deliveries, safety check-ins (via phone or home visits), heating subsidies in winter, and community center programs to help them stay socially connected.

'독거노인' is much more common in official, news, and academic contexts. '홀몸노인' is used more in emotional storytelling or to emphasize that the person has no family members at all.

Pronounce it as [dok-kko-no-in]. The 'k' sound at the end of 'dok' often makes the 'g' in 'geo' sound slightly stronger, like a 'k'. Make sure to pronounce all four syllables clearly without rushing.

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