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A2 adverb #700 よく出る 12分で読める

그동안

geudongan 上位700

At the A1 level, you should learn '그동안' primarily as part of a set greeting. When you meet someone you haven't seen in a few days or weeks, you say '그동안 잘 지냈어요?' (Have you been well during that time?). At this stage, don't worry too much about the grammar behind it. Just think of it as a way to say 'How have you been?' more specifically than just '안녕하세요?'. It's like adding 'all this time' to your question. You might also hear it when someone says '그동안 고마웠어요' (Thank you for everything) at the end of a class. It helps you talk about the time you spent together. Keep it simple: use it for reunions and goodbyes. It's a very polite and warm word to use with teachers and friends.

At the A2 level, you start to use '그동안' to connect your past actions to the present. You can use it to explain what you've been doing while you were away. For example, '그동안 한국어를 공부했어요' (I studied Korean during that time). It's a great way to give updates. You should also learn the difference between '그동안' (during that time) and '요즘' (these days). '그동안' needs a starting point, like the last time you saw your friend. If you went on vacation, you can use '그동안' to describe your trip when you get back. It's an adverb, so you usually put it at the beginning of your sentence. This makes your Korean sound much more connected and natural.

At the B1 level, you can use '그동안' in more complex sentences with various particles. For instance, adding the topic particle '은' (그동안은) allows you to contrast the past with the present: '그동안은 바빴지만 지금은 괜찮아요' (I was busy during that time, but I'm okay now). You can also use it as a noun with the possessive particle '의' to describe things that happened in that period, like '그동안의 노력' (the effort of that time). This is very useful for writing journals or short essays about your experiences. You should also start noticing '그동안' in media, like dramas or news, where it's used to summarize events. It helps you organize your thoughts chronologically when telling a story.

At the B2 level, you should be comfortable using '그동안' in professional and formal contexts. It's frequently used in business reports and emails to summarize progress: '그동안의 성과를 보고하겠습니다' (I will report on the achievements during this period). You should also learn its formal alternative '그간' and understand when to use it. At this level, you can use '그동안' to express more nuanced emotions, such as regret or gratitude for a long-term relationship. It's also used in debates or discussions to refer back to a period of time previously mentioned by another speaker. Your mastery of this word shows that you can handle temporal transitions smoothly in both speech and writing.

At the C1 level, you should understand the subtle rhetorical uses of '그동안'. It can be used to emphasize the weight of time or the persistence of a situation. For example, in a literary context, it might describe a long-standing historical conflict or a lifelong yearning. You should be able to distinguish it perfectly from similar terms like '그사이', '한동안', and '당분간', choosing the one that provides the exact nuance needed for your narrative. You might also encounter '그동안' in legal or academic texts where it defines a specific period of observation or evidence gathering. At this stage, your use of '그동안' should feel completely instinctive, reflecting a deep understanding of Korean temporal logic.

At the C2 level, you can appreciate the historical and linguistic evolution of '그동안'. You might explore its use in classical literature or archaic forms. You can use it to create complex, multi-layered sentences that play with time and perspective. For example, using '그동안' to frame a flashback within a story or to provide a philosophical reflection on the passage of time. You understand how it functions not just as a time marker, but as a cultural concept that emphasizes the importance of shared history and the continuity of human experience. Your command of the word allows you to use it with perfect precision in any register, from the most casual slang to the most formal academic discourse.

練習する例文メモとヒント

그동안 30秒で

Means 'during that time' or 'meanwhile' in Korean.
Used to bridge the gap between a past meeting and the present.
Essential for the common greeting 'How have you been?'.
Can be used as an adverb or a noun with particles like '의'.

The Korean word 그동안 (geu-dong-an) is a fundamental temporal adverb and noun that every learner must master to bridge the gap between past events and the present moment. At its core, it translates to "during that time," "meanwhile," "all this while," or "so far." It is composed of two distinct parts: 그 (geu), meaning "that," and 동안 (dong-an), meaning "period" or "interval." When combined, they create a powerful tool for referencing a specific block of time that has passed between a previous point of contact and the current conversation. This word is most famously used in the greeting 그동안 잘 지냈어요? (Have you been well all this time?), which is the standard way to ask how someone has been since you last saw them.

Temporal Scope: It refers to the entire duration from a past reference point up until now. It is not just a single moment, but the whole 'tunnel' of time.

그동안 정말 보고 싶었어요. (I have really missed you during all this time.)

In social dynamics, 그동안 serves as a linguistic 'catch-up' marker. Imagine you haven't seen a friend for three months. Everything that happened in those three months is contained within the '그동안'. It is used extensively in both spoken and written Korean, appearing in business reports to summarize progress over a quarter, in personal letters to express longing, and in news broadcasts to describe events that occurred while another event was unfolding. Unlike '요즘' (yojum), which means 'lately' or 'these days' in a general sense, 그동안 specifically anchors itself to a prior meeting or a known starting point, making it more precise in its temporal reference.

Emotional Nuance: Using this word often implies a sense of continuity and shared history between the speaker and the listener.

Furthermore, 그동안 can function as a noun when followed by particles like 의 (ui - possessive) or 에 (e - time marker), though it is most frequently used as a standalone adverbial phrase. In academic or formal settings, it might be replaced by 그간 (geugan), which is a shortened, more formal Hanja-based version. However, for 95% of daily interactions, 그동안 is the gold standard. It captures the essence of human connection over time, acknowledging that life has continued even when the two parties were apart. It is also used to wrap up projects, as in 그동안 수고하셨습니다 (Thank you for your hard work during this time), a phrase heard at the end of every drama production, business meeting, or semester.

그동안의 노력이 결실을 맺었습니다. (The efforts during that time have finally borne fruit.)

Grammar Note: It is often placed at the very beginning of a sentence to set the temporal context for the entire statement.

To truly master this word, one must understand its flexibility. It can refer to a period as short as a few hours (e.g., while someone was at the grocery store) or as long as several decades (e.g., since childhood). The '그' (that) is the key; it points to a specific 'that' which both the speaker and listener understand. If you are talking to someone you just met, you wouldn't use 그동안 because there is no shared 'that time' to refer back to. In that case, you would use '최근에' (recently) or '요즘' (these days). This distinction is what makes Korean temporal markers so rich and context-dependent.

Using 그동안 correctly involves understanding its placement and the verb tenses that typically accompany it. Because it refers to a period leading up to the present, it is most frequently paired with the past tense or the present perfect (in English terms). In Korean, this usually means verbs ending in -았/었어요 or -아/어 왔어요. For example, if you want to say you've been studying hard, you would say 그동안 열심히 공부했어요. The word acts as a temporal container for the action of studying.

Sentence Placement: Usually placed at the start of the sentence or immediately after the subject. Example: '저는 그동안...' or '그동안 저는...'

그동안 어디에 있었어요? (Where have you been all this time?)

One of the most common structures is 그동안 + [Adverb] + [Verb]. For instance, 그동안 많이 변했네요 (You've changed a lot during that time). Here, '많이' (a lot) modifies the verb '변하다' (to change), and 그동안 provides the timeframe. It can also be used to describe a state that has persisted. If someone has been sick, you might say 그동안 몸이 안 좋았어요 (I haven't been feeling well during that time). Notice how the word sets the stage before the specific information is delivered. This is a hallmark of Korean sentence structure—moving from the general context (time/place) to the specific action.

With Particles: 그동안 + 은 (Topic): '그동안은 몰랐어요' (During that time [specifically], I didn't know). The '은' adds contrast, implying that *now* I do know.

In more complex sentences, 그동안 can be used to contrast two different periods. For example: 그동안은 바빴지만, 이제는 한가해요 (I was busy during that time, but now I am free). The use of the contrastive particle -은 after 그동안 emphasizes that the period of being busy is now over. This is a very common way to transition between talking about the past and the present. It's also frequently used with the negative 안 or 못 to explain why something wasn't done: 그동안 연락을 못 해서 미안해요 (I'm sorry I couldn't contact you during that time).

그동안 쌓인 오해를 풀고 싶어요. (I want to clear up the misunderstandings that have piled up during that time.)

Formal Usage: In formal writing, '그동안' is often followed by '의' to modify a noun: '그동안의 성과' (the achievements of that period).

Finally, consider the use of 그동안 in closing remarks. When a teacher finishes a course, they might say 그동안 모두 고생 많았습니다 (Everyone worked very hard during this time). This usage is idiomatic and functions as a collective 'thank you' for the shared effort over a specific duration. It wraps up the experience and acknowledges the time investment of everyone involved. Whether you are speaking to a friend, a boss, or a large audience, 그동안 provides the necessary temporal framework to make your sentences feel natural and connected to the shared reality of your listeners.

In the real world, 그동안 is ubiquitous. You will hear it the moment you step off a plane in Korea and meet a friend, or the moment a K-drama character returns from a long journey. It is the quintessential 'reunion' word. In dramas, it's often used with high emotional stakes. A character might say 그동안 나 없이 어떻게 살았어? (How did you live without me all this time?) with tears in their eyes. This highlights the word's ability to carry significant emotional weight, representing all the hidden struggles and experiences of the period of separation.

K-Drama Context: Used during emotional reunions or when revealing a secret that was kept 'during that time'.

"그동안 고마웠어." (Thanks for everything during this time.) - Often said during a breakup or a final farewell.

In the workplace, 그동안 is used in project post-mortems and performance reviews. A manager might start a meeting by saying 그동안의 진행 상황을 보고해 주세요 (Please report on the progress made during this time). It's also the standard way to say goodbye when leaving a company: 그동안 감사했습니다 (Thank you for everything during my time here). This usage is polite, professional, and expected. It shows that you value the time you spent with the team. In news broadcasts, you'll hear it when reporters summarize a series of events: 그동안 정부는 여러 대책을 내놓았습니다 (During that time, the government has proposed several measures).

Business Etiquette: Essential for concluding projects or leaving a position. It acknowledges the collective effort over time.

Social media and messaging apps like KakaoTalk are also full of 그동안. When someone hasn't posted in a while, they might start their return post with 그동안 뜸해서 죄송해요 (Sorry for being quiet/inactive lately). It acts as an apology for the silence and a transition into the new update. Similarly, in YouTube vlogs, creators often use it to summarize what happened while they weren't filming: 그동안 저는 이사를 했어요 (During that time, I moved house). It's a versatile tool for storytelling, allowing the speaker to skip over the mundane and highlight the significant events of the interval.

그동안 잘 지내셨나요? (Have you been doing well all this time?) - A common opening for emails and letters.

Digital Communication: Used to explain absences or to catch up with followers/friends on social media.

Finally, you'll hear it in sports commentary or award ceremonies. When an athlete wins after a long slump, the commentator might say 그동안의 슬럼프를 극복했습니다 (They have overcome the slump of that period). At award shows, winners often thank their fans by saying 그동안 응원해 주셔서 감사합니다 (Thank you for cheering for me all this time). In every one of these contexts, 그동안 serves to honor the duration of the effort, the wait, or the relationship, making it one of the most culturally significant time-words in the Korean language.

One of the most frequent mistakes English speakers make is confusing 그동안 with 요즘 (yojum) or 최근에 (choe-geun-e). While all three relate to the recent past, their usage is quite different. 요즘 means 'these days' and refers to a general current trend or habit. 최근에 means 'recently' and usually refers to a specific point in the near past. 그동안, however, must have a reference point. If you walk up to a total stranger and ask 그동안 잘 지냈어요?, they will be confused because there is no 'that time' (the time since you last met) to refer to. You must use 그동안 only when there is a shared past context.

Mistake 1: No Reference Point: Using '그동안' with someone you just met. Use '요즘' instead.

❌ 처음 뵙겠습니다. 그동안 잘 지냈어요? (Wrong: No shared past)
✅ 처음 뵙겠습니다. 요즘 어떻게 지내세요? (Right: General 'how are you')

Another common error is confusing 그동안 with 그때 (geu-ttae). 그때 means 'at that time' and refers to a specific moment or a point on a timeline. 그동안 refers to the duration. If you want to say "I was happy at that moment," use 그때. If you want to say "I was happy throughout that whole period," use 그동안. Mixing these up can change the meaning of your sentence from a specific memory to a general state of being. For example, 그때 바빴어요 means "I was busy then (at that specific moment)," while 그동안 바빴어요 means "I've been busy all this while."

Mistake 2: Point vs. Duration: Using '그동안' when you mean a specific point in time. '그동안' is a duration; '그때' is a point.

Learners also sometimes struggle with the particle -동안 versus the word 그동안. Remember that 동안 is a noun that needs a modifier (like '3년 동안' - for 3 years, or '방학 동안' - during vacation). 그동안 is a complete unit. You don't need to say 그 시간 동안 (during that time) because 그동안 already covers it more naturally. Using 그 시간 동안 isn't grammatically wrong, but it sounds redundant and less native. Stick to 그동안 for a smoother, more natural flow.

❌ 그 시간 동안 뭐 했어요? (Redundant)
✅ 그동안 뭐 했어요? (Natural)

Mistake 3: Redundancy: Adding '시간' (time) to '그동안'. The '동안' already implies a period of time.

Lastly, be careful with the tense. Since 그동안 covers a period up to the present, using it with a purely future tense can be tricky. You wouldn't say 그동안 갈 거예요 (I will go during that time) unless '그동안' refers to a future interval already established in the conversation (like a future vacation). Even then, it's more common to use 그사이에 (in the meantime) for future intervals. For past-to-present intervals, 그동안 is almost always paired with past or present continuous tenses. Mastering these subtle distinctions will make your Korean sound much more sophisticated and accurate.

While 그동안 is the most common way to say "during that time," there are several alternatives that carry slightly different nuances or levels of formality. Understanding these will help you choose the right word for the right situation. The most direct formal alternative is 그간 (geugan). This is a contraction of 그동안 using the Hanja 間 (gan), which also means 'between' or 'interval'. You will see 그간 in news headlines, formal speeches, or literary works. It sounds more sophisticated and concise.

그동안 vs. 그간: '그동안' is the standard, everyday word. '그간' is more formal and literary, often used in professional writing.

그간의 소식을 전합니다. (I am conveying the news of the recent period.) - Formal email style.

Another similar word is 그사이 (geu-sa-i). While 그동안 focuses on the *duration* of the period, 그사이 (often shortened to 그새) focuses on the *gap* or the *interval* between two events. It is often used when something unexpected happens in a short amount of time. For example, if you left the room for five minutes and your dog ate your homework, you would say 그새(그사이에) 먹어버렸네! (He ate it in that short time!). 그동안 would feel too long and heavy for such a short interval.

그동안 vs. 그사이/그새: '그동안' is for long, significant periods. '그사이/그새' is for short intervals, often with a sense of surprise.

We also have 한동안 (han-dong-an). This means "for a while" or "for quite some time." Unlike 그동안, it doesn't necessarily point back to a specific reference point. It just describes a relatively long period. For example, 한동안 연락이 없었어요 means "There was no contact for a while." This is more general than 그동안, which would imply "no contact since we last spoke." Use 한동안 when you want to emphasize the length of time itself rather than the connection between two points in time.

한동안 비가 계속 왔어요. (It rained continuously for a while.)

그동안 vs. 한동안: '그동안' is 'during THAT time' (specific). '한동안' is 'for A while' (general length).

Finally, consider 당분간 (dang-bun-gan), which means "for the time being" or "for a while" in the *future*. While 그동안 looks backward, 당분간 looks forward. If you are going to be busy for the next few weeks, you would say 당분간 바쁠 거예요. You cannot use 그동안 here. Understanding these directional and nuanced differences is key to achieving fluency. By choosing between 그동안, 그간, 그새, 한동안, and 당분간, you can precisely communicate exactly which 'time' you are talking about.

How Formal Is It?

フォーマル

"그동안의 성원에 깊이 감사드립니다."

ニュートラル

"그동안 잘 지내셨어요?"

カジュアル

"그동안 뭐 하고 지냈어?"

Child friendly

"그동안 유치원에서 뭐 배웠어?"

スラング

"그동안 잠수 탔냐?"

豆知識

The word '동안' (dongan) is a homonym for 'baby face' (童顔), which uses different Hanja. So '그동안' could technically mean 'that baby face' in a very specific, punny context, though no one uses it that way!

発音ガイド

UK /ɡɯ.doŋ.an/

US /ɡɯ.doŋ.an/

The stress is relatively even across all three syllables, but a slight emphasis on 'dong' is common in natural speech.

韻が合う語

동안 (dongan) 공안 (gongan) 동안 (child-face - dongan) 농안 (nongan) 봉안 (bongan) 송안 (songan) 용안 (yongan) 중안 (jungan)

よくある間違い

Pronouncing 'eu' as 'oo' (like 'goo-dong-an').
Making the 'g' too aspirated (like 'k').
Separating 'dong' and 'an' too much; they should flow together.
Pronouncing 'an' like the English word 'an' (rhyming with 'can'). It should be 'ahn'.
Missing the nasal 'ng' sound.

難易度

読解 2/5

Easy to recognize as it appears frequently in early lessons and greetings.

ライティング 3/5

Requires understanding of when to use it versus '요즘' or '최근'.

スピーキング 2/5

Very natural to use once the 'How have you been' pattern is learned.

リスニング 2/5

Clearly articulated in most conversations due to its importance.

次に学ぶべきこと

前提知識

그 (that) 동안 (during) 시간 (time) 잘 (well) 지내다 (to spend time/live)

次に学ぶ

그사이 (in the meantime) 한동안 (for a while) 당분간 (for the time being) 최근 (recently) 요즘 (these days)

上級

그간 (formal 그동안) 경과 (passage of time) 지속 (duration/continuation) 공백 (hiatus/gap)

知っておくべき文法

Noun + 동안

방학 동안 (during vacation)

Verb + 는 동안

내가 자는 동안 (while I was sleeping)

Past Tense (-았/었-)

그동안 바빴어요. (I was busy during that time.)

Present Perfect (-아/어 오다)

그동안 참아왔어요. (I have been holding it back during that time.)

Possessive Particle (-의)

그동안의 노력 (The effort of that time)

レベル別の例文

그동안 잘 지냈어요?

Have you been well during that time?

Standard greeting for someone you haven't seen in a while.

그동안 고마웠어요.

Thank you for everything during this time.

Used to express gratitude for a completed period of time.

그동안 뭐 했어요?

What did you do during that time?

Simple question to ask about someone's activities during an absence.

그동안 저는 잤어요.

I slept during that time.

Simple past tense usage with the adverb.

그동안 바빴어요?

Were you busy during that time?

Common question to ask when someone hasn't contacted you.

그동안 어디 있었어요?

Where were you during that time?

Asking about location during a specific interval.

그동안 많이 먹었어요.

I ate a lot during that time.

Using an adverb '많이' with the verb.

그동안 보고 싶었어요.

I missed you during that time.

Expressing feelings about the period of separation.

그동안 한국어 공부를 많이 했어요.

I studied Korean a lot during that time.

Connecting past study to the present meeting.

그동안 날씨가 아주 좋았어요.

The weather was very good during that time.

Describing a state that persisted over a period.

그동안 가족들과 여행을 다녀왔어요.

I went on a trip with my family during that time.

Using '다녀오다' (to go and come back) to describe a completed trip.

그동안 왜 연락 안 했어요?

Why didn't you contact me during that time?

Using the negative '안' to ask about a lack of action.

그동안 친구를 못 만났어요.

I couldn't meet my friends during that time.

Using '못' to express inability to do something.

그동안 회사 일이 너무 많았어요.

There was too much work at the company during that time.

Explaining a situation using a noun phrase '회사 일'.

그동안 집에서 쉬었어요.

I rested at home during that time.

Describing a period of rest.

그동안 노래 연습을 했어요.

I practiced singing during that time.

Focusing on a specific activity during the interval.

그동안은 바빴지만 이제는 시간이 좀 있어요.

I was busy during that time, but now I have some time.

Using '그동안은' to contrast a past period with the present.

그동안의 노력이 드디어 결실을 맺었네요.

The efforts of that time have finally borne fruit.

Using '그동안의' as a possessive modifier for a noun.

그동안 제가 말한 것을 잊지 마세요.

Don't forget what I've said during this time.

Referring back to a series of statements made over time.

그동안 모은 돈으로 차를 샀어요.

I bought a car with the money I saved during that time.

Using a relative clause '모은 돈' with '그동안'.

그동안 쌓인 스트레스를 풀고 싶어요.

I want to relieve the stress that has built up during that time.

Describing the accumulation of something over a period.

그동안 무슨 일이 있었는지 다 말해줘.

Tell me everything that happened during that time.

Using an indirect question clause '무슨 일이 있었는지'.

그동안 준비한 프로젝트가 취소되었어요.

The project we prepared during that time was canceled.

Referring to a specific long-term task.

그동안 참아왔던 눈물이 터졌어요.

The tears I had been holding back during that time burst out.

Using '-아/어 오다' to show an action continuing up to a point.

그동안의 성과를 바탕으로 새로운 계획을 세웁시다.

Let's make a new plan based on the achievements of that period.

Formal business usage of '그동안의' with '바탕으로'.

그동안 우리 사회는 많은 변화를 겪어왔습니다.

During that time, our society has undergone many changes.

Using '그동안' in a sociological or historical context.

그동안 제기되었던 문제들을 하나씩 해결해 나갑시다.

Let's solve the problems that have been raised during that time one by one.

Referring to a collection of issues raised over an interval.

그동안 보내주신 성원에 깊은 감사를 드립니다.

I express my deep gratitude for the support you have sent during this time.

Highly formal expression of thanks in a speech or letter.

그동안의 공백을 메우기 위해 더 열심히 노력하겠습니다.

I will work harder to fill the gap of that period.

Using '공백' (gap/hiatus) with '그동안의'.

그동안 소홀히 했던 건강 관리에 신경을 쓰려고 해요.

I intend to pay attention to my health, which I neglected during that time.

Reflecting on past negligence over a specific duration.

그동안은 설마 했지만, 정말 이런 일이 일어날 줄은 몰랐어요.

I had my doubts during that time, but I never thought this would actually happen.

Using '설마' to express past skepticism during an interval.

그동안의 경험이 저에게 큰 자산이 되었습니다.

The experiences of that time have become a great asset to me.

Valuing the cumulative effect of time spent.

그동안의 침묵은 단순한 방관이 아니라 깊은 고뇌의 산물이었습니다.

The silence during that time was not mere indifference but the product of deep anguish.

Literary and abstract usage of '그동안의' to describe an internal state.

그동안 베일에 싸여 있던 진실이 마침내 드러나기 시작했습니다.

The truth that had been shrouded in a veil during that time has finally begun to emerge.

Using metaphorical language ('베일에 싸여 있다') with the temporal marker.

그동안의 연구 결과를 종합해 볼 때, 이 가설은 타당성이 높습니다.

When synthesizing the research results of that period, this hypothesis has high validity.

Academic usage in the context of summarizing scientific findings.

그동안 쌓아온 신뢰가 한순간에 무너질 수도 있다는 점을 명심해야 합니다.

We must keep in mind that the trust built up during that time can collapse in an instant.

Warning about the fragility of long-term efforts.

그동안의 방황을 끝내고 이제는 제 자리를 찾은 것 같습니다.

Having ended the wandering of that period, I feel like I've finally found my place.

Using '방황' (wandering/lost) to describe a psychological period.

그동안의 노고에 보답하고자 작은 선물을 준비했습니다.

I have prepared a small gift to repay the hard work of that period.

Polite and formal way to acknowledge someone's long-term effort.

그동안의 갈등을 해소하기 위해 양측이 협상 테이블에 앉았습니다.

Both sides sat at the negotiating table to resolve the conflicts of that period.

Using '갈등' (conflict) to define the nature of the time interval.

그동안의 행적을 추적해 본 결과, 그는 무죄임이 밝혀졌습니다.

As a result of tracing his movements during that time, it was revealed that he is innocent.

Using '행적' (one's tracks/doings) in a legal or investigative context.

그동안의 세월이 무색하리만큼 그녀의 열정은 여전히 뜨거웠다.

Her passion was still so hot that it made the passing years of that time seem meaningless.

High-level literary expression using '-이 무색하다' (to be put to shame).

그동안의 역사는 억압과 투쟁의 연속이었다고 해도 과언이 아니다.

It is no exaggeration to say that the history of that period was a series of oppression and struggle.

Philosophical and historical summary using '-라고 해도 과언이 아니다'.

그동안의 모든 수고가 물거품이 되지 않도록 끝까지 최선을 다합시다.

Let's do our best until the end so that all the hard work of that time does not go to waste.

Using the idiom '물거품이 되다' (to come to nothing) with the temporal phrase.

그동안의 소회를 밝히는 그의 목소리는 가늘게 떨리고 있었다.

His voice was trembling slightly as he expressed his feelings about that period.

Using '소회' (one's thoughts/feelings) to refer to reflections on the past.

그동안의 관행에서 벗어나 새로운 패러다임을 제시해야 할 때입니다.

It is time to break away from the practices of that period and present a new paradigm.

Using '관행' (customary practice) to describe a long-standing habit.

그동안의 은혜를 어찌 다 말로 표현할 수 있겠습니까?

How can I possibly express all the kindness of that period in words?

Rhetorical question format used in highly formal and emotional speeches.

그동안의 고난이 그를 더욱 단단하게 만들었음은 자명한 사실이다.

It is a self-evident fact that the hardships of that time made him even stronger.

Using '자명한 사실' (self-evident fact) in a formal argumentative style.

그동안의 기다림 끝에 찾아온 기회는 그 무엇보다 소중했다.

The opportunity that came after the waiting of that period was more precious than anything.

Emphasizing the value of an outcome after a long duration.

よく使う組み合わせ

그동안 잘 지냈어요?

그동안 수고하셨습니다

그동안의 노력

그동안의 성과

그동안의 공백

그동안의 소식

그동안 쌓인

그동안 몰랐던

그동안 참아왔던

그동안 감사했습니다

よく使うフレーズ

그동안 뜸했어요

그동안 고생 많았어

그동안 정들었어요

그동안의 회포를 풀다

그동안 못다 한 이야기

그동안의 행보

그동안의 은혜

그동안 별일 없었지?

그동안 지켜봐 주셔서

그동안의 슬럼프

よく混同される語

그동안 vs 요즘

요즘 is 'these days' (general), 그동안 is 'during that time' (specific interval).

그동안 vs 그때

그때 is 'at that time' (a point), 그동안 is 'during that time' (a duration).

그동안 vs 최근

최근 is 'recently' (near past point), 그동안 is the whole span leading to now.

慣用句と表現

"그동안의 공이 아깝다"

It's a waste of all the effort put in during that time.

여기서 포기하면 그동안의 공이 아깝잖아요.

Neutral

"그동안의 빚을 갚다"

To repay the favors or 'debts' accumulated over time.

이제야 그동안의 빚을 갚는 기분이에요.

Metaphorical

"그동안의 울분을 토하다"

To vent the resentment built up over a long period.

그는 기자회견에서 그동안의 울분을 토해냈다.

Formal/Dramatic

"그동안의 노고를 치하하다"

To praise or commend the hard work of a period.

사장님은 직원들의 그동안의 노고를 치하하셨다.

Formal

"그동안의 한을 풀다"

To resolve the deep-seated sorrow or 'Han' of a long time.

우승을 차지하며 그동안의 한을 풀었습니다.

Cultural/Emotional

"그동안의 오해를 씻다"

To wash away (clear up) the misunderstandings of that time.

대화를 통해 그동안의 오해를 씻을 수 있었어요.

Neutral

"그동안의 정을 생각해서"

Considering the affection/bond built up over time.

그동안의 정을 생각해서 한 번만 더 도와주세요.

Personal

"그동안의 침묵을 깨다"

To break the silence of a long period (e.g., make a comeback).

그 배우는 5년 만에 그동안의 침묵을 깨고 복귀했다.

Media/Journalism

"그동안의 세월을 보상받다"

To be compensated for the years spent during that time.

그는 드디어 그동안의 세월을 보상받는 듯했다.

Literary

"그동안의 수고가 헛되다"

The hard work of that period was in vain.

계획이 무산되니 그동안의 수고가 헛되게 느껴져요.

Neutral

間違えやすい

그동안 vs 그사이

Both mean 'during that time'.

그사이 is for shorter, often unexpected intervals. 그동안 is for longer, significant durations.

그사이에 도둑이 들었어! (The thief entered in that short gap!)

그동안 vs 한동안

Both refer to a period of time.

한동안 means 'for a while' without a specific reference point. 그동안 refers back to a specific 'that time'.

한동안 비가 왔어요. (It rained for a while.)

그동안 vs 당분간

Both refer to a 'while'.

당분간 is for the future ('for the time being'). 그동안 is for the past-to-present.

당분간 여기 있을게요. (I'll be here for the time being.)

그동안 vs 잠시

Both refer to a duration.

잠시 is a very short moment ('a moment'). 그동안 is a longer period.

잠시만 기다려 주세요. (Please wait a moment.)

그동안 vs 그간

They have the same meaning.

그간 is simply a more formal, contracted Hanja version of 그동안.

그간 평안하셨습니까? (Have you been at peace during this time? - Very formal)

文型パターン

그동안 [Adjective]-았/었어요?

그동안 바빴어요?

그동안 [Noun]을/를 했어요.

그동안 운동을 했어요.

그동안은 [A]-았/었지만, 이제는 [B]-아요/어요.

그동안은 추웠지만 이제는 따뜻해요.

그동안의 [Noun]이/가 [Verb].

그동안의 노력이 결실을 맺었어요.

그동안 [Verb]-아/어 온 [Noun].

그동안 쌓아 온 신뢰.

그동안의 [Noun]을/를 뒤로하고...

그동안의 갈등을 뒤로하고 화해했다.

그동안 어디 [Verb]-았/었어요?

그동안 어디 갔다 왔어요?

그동안 [Verb]느라 고생했어요.

그동안 공부하느라 고생했어요.

語族

名詞

使い方

frequency

Extremely high in daily conversation and media.

よくある間違い

Using '그동안' with someone you just met. → 요즘 어떻게 지내세요?
You can't use 'during that time' if there is no shared 'that time'. Use '요즘' (these days) for new acquaintances.
Saying '그 시간 동안'. → 그동안
While not strictly wrong, it's redundant. '동안' already means 'period of time'. Native speakers prefer the shorter '그동안'.
Confusing '그동안' with '그때'. → 그때는 행복했어요. (I was happy at that moment.)
'그때' is for a specific point in time. '그동안' is for a duration. Don't use '그동안' if you mean a single moment.
Using '그동안' for future plans. → 당분간 바쁠 거예요.
'그동안' looks backward. For future 'for a while', use '당분간'.
Forgetting the particle '의' when modifying a noun. → 그동안의 노력
To use '그동안' as an adjective for a noun, you must add the possessive particle '의'.

ヒント

Start your updates with it

When you haven't seen someone in a while, start your sentence with '그동안' to immediately signal that you're giving an update.

Use with '의' for nouns

If you want to talk about 'the progress made during that time', say '그동안의 진행'. The '의' is crucial here.

The 'Thank You' phrase

Always use '그동안 감사했습니다' when leaving a job or finishing a project. It's a key cultural marker of gratitude.

Flow the 'ng' sound

Don't stop after 'dong'. Let the 'ng' nasal sound slide right into the 'a' of 'an' for a native-like flow.

Point vs. Duration

Remember: '그때' is a snapshot (point), '그동안' is a movie (duration). Use the right one for your story.

Learn '그간' for reading

You might not say '그간' often, but you'll see it in newspapers. Recognizing it as a formal '그동안' will help your reading comprehension.

Expressing Longing

Pair '그동안' with '보고 싶었어요' (I missed you) to show that you were thinking of the person the whole time you were apart.

Contrast with '은'

Use '그동안은' when you want to say 'During that time [it was like this], but now [it's like this]'.

Contextual Clues

If you hear '그동안', look for the reference point in the conversation. It will tell you exactly how far back the speaker is looking.

Don't use with strangers

Avoid using '그동안' with people you've just met. Use '요즘' or '최근' instead to avoid confusion.

暗記しよう

記憶術

Think of 'Geu' (That) + 'Dong-an' (During). 'That-During'. It's everything that happened *during that* gap since we last met.

視覚的連想

Imagine a bridge connecting two islands. One island is 'Last Time' and the other is 'Now'. The bridge itself is '그동안'.

Word Web

Time Duration Past Present Greeting Update Interval History

チャレンジ

Try to use '그동안' in three different ways today: as a greeting, to explain a past action, and to say thank you for a period of time.

語源

A compound of the native Korean demonstrative '그' (that) and the noun '동안' (period/interval). '동안' itself comes from the Hanja '同' (same/together) and '間' (between), though it is now treated as a native-like noun.

元の意味： The space or time between 'that' specific point and the present.

Koreanic

文化的な背景

There are no major sensitivities, but using it with someone you meet daily might sound a bit dramatic or sarcastic, as if you haven't seen them in years.

English speakers often just say 'How have you been?' or 'Recently...', but '그동안' is more specific about the interval of absence.

The phrase '그동안 수고하셨습니다' is famously used at the end of every K-drama behind-the-scenes clip. Many K-pop songs use '그동안' in lyrics about missing a lover during a breakup. Variety shows like 'Infinite Challenge' often used it when members returned from hiatus.

実生活で練習する

実際の使用場面

Reunions

그동안 잘 지냈어요?
그동안 보고 싶었어요.
그동안 많이 변했네요.
그동안 어떻게 지냈어?

Work/Projects

그동안 수고하셨습니다.
그동안의 진행 상황입니다.
그동안의 성과를 보고합니다.
그동안 고생 많으셨어요.

Apologies

그동안 연락 못 해서 미안해요.
그동안 뜸해서 죄송합니다.
그동안 신경 못 써서 미안해.
그동안 바빠서 이제야 연락해요.

Summarizing

그동안 저는 이사를 했어요.
그동안 많은 일이 있었어요.
그동안 공부만 했어요.
그동안 아팠어요.

Farewells

그동안 감사했습니다.
그동안 즐거웠어요.
그동안 정들었는데 아쉽네요.
그동안 많이 배웠습니다.

会話のきっかけ

"그동안 어떻게 지내셨는지 궁금해요."

"그동안 한국어 공부는 얼마나 했어요?"

"그동안 본 영화 중에 뭐가 제일 재미있었어요?"

"그동안 여행 다녀온 곳 중에 추천할 만한 곳이 있나요?"

"그동안 제가 없는 사이에 별일 없었죠?"

日記のテーマ

그동안 내가 이룬 가장 큰 성과는 무엇인가요?

그동안 친구와 연락하지 못한 이유는 무엇이었나요?

그동안의 내 생활에서 바꾸고 싶은 점은 무엇인가요?

그동안 배운 한국어 표현들 중에서 가장 유용한 것은 무엇인가요?

그동안 나를 가장 행복하게 했던 순간은 언제였나요?

よくある質問

10 問

Generally, no. '그동안' refers to a period that has already started or passed. For future durations, use '당분간' (for the time being) or '그사이에' (in the meantime).

'그간' is a formal, shortened version of '그동안'. You'll see it in business emails or news, while '그동안' is used in everyday speech.

It can be both. As an adverb, it stands alone (그동안 바빴어요). As a noun, it takes particles (그동안의 성과).

Yes, but it's redundant. '그동안' already means 'during that time'. '그 시간 동안' sounds like 'during that time time'.

The most natural way is '그동안 잘 지냈어요?' or '그동안 어떻게 지냈어요?'.

Yes, in contexts where two things are happening at once. '저는 요리를 했고, 그동안 남편은 청소를 했어요.' (I cooked, and meanwhile, my husband cleaned.)

Usually, yes, because it refers to a period that has occurred. However, it can be used with present continuous to show an ongoing state: '그동안 계속 기다리고 있어요' (I've been waiting all this time).

The word itself is neutral. The politeness comes from the sentence ending (e.g., -요 or -습니다).

It's unusual. It implies a significant gap. If you saw them yesterday, '그동안' might sound like you're being dramatic about the 24-hour separation.

There isn't a single word, but '앞으로' (from now on) or '당분간' (for the near future) represent the opposite temporal direction.