At the A1 level, you just need to know that '중간고사' means 'midterm exam'. It is a noun. You can use it in very simple sentences like '중간고사가 있어요' (I have a midterm) or '중간고사가 어려워요' (The midterm is hard). At this stage, focus on recognizing the word when you hear it in a school context. You might hear a teacher say '내일 중간고사' (Midterm tomorrow). Don't worry about complex grammar yet; just link the sound 'jung-gan-go-sa' to the idea of a big test in the middle of the semester. It's helpful to know that '시험' is a more general word for 'test', and '중간고사' is a specific type of '시험'. If you are a student in Korea, this is one of the first words you will learn because it affects your daily schedule. You might also see it on a calendar. Remember that Korean nouns don't change for plural, so '중간고사' can mean one midterm or multiple midterms depending on the context. Just focus on the basic meaning and the fact that it's a very important event for students.
At the A2 level, you should be able to use '중간고사' with basic action verbs and particles. The most important phrase to learn is '중간고사를 보다', which means 'to take a midterm exam'. Notice the particle '를' because the exam is the object of the action. You can also start using time expressions, such as '중간고사 기간' (midterm period) or '중간고사 전' (before the midterm). You might say, '중간고사 전에 공부를 많이 해요' (I study a lot before the midterm). You should also be able to describe your feelings or the difficulty of the exam using adjectives like '힘들다' (to be hard/tiring) or '쉽다' (to be easy). For example, '이번 중간고사는 정말 힘들었어요' (This midterm was really tiring/hard). At this level, you are expected to understand that this word is used in school and university settings. You can also start to distinguish it from '기말고사' (final exam). If someone asks you '중간고사 잘 봤어요?', they are asking if you did well on your midterm. This is a common social question among students in Korea.
At the B1 level, you can use '중간고사' in more complex sentence structures, such as those involving reasons, intentions, or conditions. For example, '중간고사를 잘 보기 위해서 밤을 새웠어요' (I stayed up all night in order to do well on the midterm). You can also discuss the '범위' (scope/range) of the exam: '중간고사 범위가 너무 많아서 걱정이에요' (I'm worried because the midterm scope is too large). You should be comfortable using the word in conversation with teachers or classmates, asking about specific details of the exam. You might also start to use related nouns like '성적' (grade/result) or '점수' (score). For instance, '중간고사 성적이 언제 나와요?' (When do the midterm grades come out?). At this stage, you should also understand the cultural significance of the exam period in Korea, such as why students are so busy and why certain foods are given as gifts. You can use the word to explain your schedule to others: '중간고사 기간이라서 다음 주까지는 바쁠 것 같아요' (It's midterm period, so I think I'll be busy until next week).
At the B2 level, you should be able to discuss the implications of the '중간고사' on a student's overall academic standing. You can use more advanced vocabulary like '비중' (weight/proportion) or '반영되다' (to be reflected). For example, '중간고사가 기말 성적에 40% 반영돼요' (The midterm is reflected as 40% of the final grade). You can also talk about the pressure and the competitive environment using terms like '내신 관리' (managing school records) or '상대평가' (relative evaluation/grading on a curve). You might discuss the pros and cons of having such heavy exams: '중간고사가 학생들에게 너무 큰 스트레스를 준다고 생각해요' (I think midterms give students too much stress). At this level, your usage should be fluent, and you should be able to understand nuanced discussions about education policy or student life in news articles or documentaries. You can also use idiomatic expressions or more formal verbs like '치르다' (to undergo/take) instead of just '보다'. For example, '전국의 학생들이 오늘 중간고사를 치렀습니다' (Students across the country took their midterms today).
At the C1 level, you can use '중간고사' as a starting point for deep discussions about the Korean education system, social mobility, and psychological well-being. You might analyze how the '중간고사' and '기말고사' system contributes to the 'education fever' in Korea. You should be able to use academic and professional terminology, such as '학업 성취도' (academic achievement level) or '변별력' (discriminatory power - the ability of a test to distinguish between top and bottom students). For example, '이번 중간고사는 변별력이 낮아서 상위권 학생들에게 불리했어요' (This midterm had low discriminatory power, so it was disadvantageous for top-tier students). You can write essays or give presentations comparing the Korean midterm system with those of other countries, using '중간고사' as a key technical term. You should also be sensitive to the register, knowing when to use formal versus informal language when discussing exams. You can understand complex academic regulations regarding midterms, such as policies on '재시험' (retake exams) or '부정행위' (cheating/academic dishonesty).
At the C2 level, you have a near-native command of the word '중간고사' and its place within the broader socio-cultural and historical context of Korea. You can discuss the evolution of the examination system from the historical 'Gwageo' (civil service exams) to the modern '중간고사'. You can engage in high-level debates about educational reform, such as moving toward a 'free semester system' (자유학기제) where '중간고사' are eliminated to reduce student stress. You can use the word in literary or highly formal contexts, perhaps using metaphors or historical references. Your understanding includes the subtle psychological nuances—how the word '중간고사' can trigger 'exam trauma' or how it serves as a collective memory for different generations of Koreans. You can effortlessly switch between technical educational jargon and the slang used by students to describe their exam experiences. You might even analyze the linguistic structure of the word and its Hanja roots to explain its meaning to others, demonstrating a profound grasp of the language's architecture and its application in society.

중간고사 30秒で

  • 중간고사 means 'midterm exam' in Korean academic contexts.
  • It is taken twice a year, usually in April and October.
  • The word combines '중간' (middle) and '고사' (examination).
  • It is a high-stakes event that heavily influences final grades.

The Korean word 중간고사 (Jung-gan-go-sa) refers to a midterm examination, a pivotal event in the South Korean academic calendar that occurs twice a year. In the Korean education system, which is divided into two main semesters—the first starting in March and the second in September—the midterm exam typically takes place in late April and late October. For students, this word is synonymous with high-intensity study sessions, late nights at study cafes, and a significant amount of academic pressure. The word itself is a compound noun derived from Hanja (Chinese characters), where '중간' (中間) means 'middle' or 'intermediate' and '고사' (考試) means 'examination' or 'test'. Understanding this word is essential for anyone interacting with Korean students, teachers, or parents, as it dictates the rhythm of social and family life during these periods. During midterm week, the atmosphere in Korea shifts noticeably; libraries are packed, coffee shops are filled with students, and even some businesses adjust their schedules or offer 'cheer-up' promotions. It is not just a test; it is a seasonal milestone that marks the halfway point of an academic journey.

Academic Context
In middle schools, high schools, and universities, the midterm grade usually accounts for 30% to 40% of the final grade for a course.
Social Context
Friends often cancel plans during this time, saying '시험 기간이라 못 만나' (I can't meet because it's exam period).

내일부터 중간고사 기간이라서 도서관에 자리가 없어요.

Translation: Since the midterm exam period starts tomorrow, there are no seats in the library.

The intensity surrounding the 중간고사 is rooted in the competitive nature of Korean education. For high schoolers, these exams are building blocks for their internal school records (내신), which are crucial for university admissions. Unlike some Western systems where constant assessment is common, the Korean system heavily weights these two major exams: the midterm and the final. Consequently, the word often carries a heavy emotional weight, often associated with words like 'stress' (스트레스) and 'all-nighter' (밤샘). However, it also brings a sense of camaraderie among classmates who are 'in the trenches' together, sharing notes and caffeine drinks. When someone says they are 'preparing for 중간고사', they are signaling that they will be unavailable for leisure activities and are focused entirely on their books.

이번 중간고사 성적이 잘 나와서 기뻐요.

Translation: I am happy because my midterm exam results came out well.

Beyond the classroom, the term appears in various media. K-dramas often depict the 'exam period' to show a character's diligence or to create a high-stakes environment. In university settings, the '중간고사' period is also when 'snack trucks' (간식 마차) organized by student councils appear, handing out free food to encourage students. This cultural phenomenon makes the word more than just a technical term for a test; it is a shared cultural experience that defines the rhythm of the year for millions of people across the peninsula. Whether you are a student or not, knowing when the 중간고사 is happening helps you understand why the subways are quiet in the afternoons or why study cafes are suddenly booked solid.

Using 중간고사 correctly involves pairing it with the right verbs and particles to convey different stages of the examination process. The most common verb used with any exam, including midterms, is 보다 (to see/watch), which in this context means 'to take'. So, '중간고사를 보다' is the standard way to say 'to take a midterm exam'. If you want to say you are preparing for it, you use 준비하다 (to prepare) or 공부하다 (to study). For example, '중간고사 공부를 하고 있어요' means 'I am studying for the midterm'.

Taking the Exam
중간고사를 보다 (To take a midterm exam). Example: 내일 중간고사를 봐요.
Preparing
중간고사를 준비하다 (To prepare for midterms). Example: 이번 주말에 중간고사를 준비해야 해요.

수학 중간고사가 너무 어려웠어요.

Translation: The math midterm exam was too difficult.

When discussing the results, you might use verbs like 잘 보다 (to do well/see well) or 못 보다 (to do poorly/see poorly). A very common colloquial expression for failing or messing up an exam is 망치다 (to ruin/spoil). For instance, '중간고사를 망쳤어요' means 'I bombed my midterm'. Conversely, '중간고사를 잘 봤어요' means 'I did well on the midterm'. You can also talk about the 'period' of exams by adding 기간 (period) to form '중간고사 기간'.

드디어 중간고사가 끝났어요!

Translation: Finally, the midterm exams are over!

In more formal or academic settings, you might hear the verb 치르다, which means 'to undergo' or 'to take' (a test). This is often used in news reports or formal school announcements: '학생들이 중간고사를 치르고 있습니다' (Students are taking their midterm exams). Additionally, if you are discussing the scope of the exam—what chapters or topics will be covered—you use the word 범위 (range/scope). For example, '중간고사 범위가 어디까지예요?' (How far does the midterm exam scope go?). This variety of verbs allows you to describe every stage from the initial dread of the '범위' to the final relief when the '기간' is over.

In South Korea, you will hear 중간고사 virtually everywhere that students congregate. If you walk into a Starbucks or a local study cafe (스터디카페) during the months of April or October, the word will be buzzing in the air. Students will be discussing which subjects are the hardest or complaining about the amount of material they need to memorize. It is a word that defines the social atmosphere of these months. In universities, professors will announce the dates of the 중간고사 at the beginning of the semester, and it will be clearly marked on every syllabus. You'll also hear it on public transport—groups of students often discuss their study progress or quiz each other on the way to school.

At the University
Professors: '다음 주 수요일에 중간고사를 보겠습니다.' (We will have the midterm exam next Wednesday.)
At Home
Parents: '중간고사 공부는 잘 돼가니?' (Is your midterm studying going well?)

커피숍에 중간고사 공부하는 학생들이 많네요.

Translation: There are many students studying for midterms in the coffee shop.

Media and pop culture are also rife with this term. High school dramas like 'School 2017' or 'Sky Castle' frequently feature the intense pressure of the 중간고사 as a central plot point. In these shows, you'll see characters staying up all night, drinking energy drinks, and the word '중간고사' being treated with the gravity of a life-or-death situation. Even in variety shows, celebrities might reminisce about their school days and mention how they used to prepare for their midterms. If you follow Korean YouTubers who are students (Gong-bang-vlogs or 'study with me' videos), the title of their videos will almost certainly contain '중간고사 브이로그' (Midterm Vlog) during exam seasons.

이번 중간고사 대박 나세요!

Translation: I hope you hit the jackpot (do great) on this midterm!

Furthermore, the word appears in corporate environments occasionally. Companies that provide educational services, tutoring, or even food delivery apps will use the word in their marketing. You might see a banner saying '중간고사 응원 이벤트' (Midterm Support Event) where they offer discounts on fried chicken or pizza, recognizing that students (and their parents) are a major demographic during this time. Even if you aren't in school, the ubiquitous nature of the term means you'll encounter it in the news, on posters in the street, and in the general conversation of the public twice a year. It is a term that truly permeates Korean society.

One of the most frequent mistakes English speakers make when using 중간고사 is using the wrong verb for 'taking' an exam. In English, we say 'do an exam' or 'take an exam', but in Korean, the most natural verb is 보다 (to see). Students often mistakenly say '중간고사를 해요' (I do the midterm) or '중간고사를 가져요' (I have/take the midterm), which sounds unnatural. Remember: you 'see' the exam in Korean logic.

Incorrect Verb
Avoid: '중간고사를 했어요' (I did the midterm). Use: '중간고사를 봤어요' (I took the midterm).
Confusing with Finals
Don't confuse '중간고사' (Midterm) with '기말고사' (Final exam). '중간' means middle, '기말' means end of term.

❌ 저는 내일 중간고사를 해요. (Wrong)
✅ 저는 내일 중간고사를 봐요. (Correct)

Another common error involves the use of particles. When you are studying *for* an exam, you don't use a literal translation of 'for' like '위해'. Instead, you usually say '중간고사 공부' (midterm study) or '중간고사를 위해서 공부하다' (studying for the sake of the midterm), but the most common way is simply '중간고사 공부하다'. Also, learners sometimes forget that '중간고사' is a specific event. You can't say 'I am in midterm' like you say 'I am in class'. You must say '중간고사 기간이에요' (It is the midterm period) or '지금 중간고사를 보고 있어요' (I am taking the midterm right now).

중간고사 공부 때문에 잠을 못 잤어요.

Translation: I couldn't sleep because of studying for the midterm.

Lastly, there is a spelling confusion that sometimes occurs with the Hanja-based words. Some learners might confuse '고사' (exam) with '교사' (teacher) or '고시' (a very high-level professional exam like the bar exam). While '고시' (Go-si) is also an exam, it refers to something much more intense and career-defining than a standard school '고사'. Using '중간고시' would be incorrect and might make it sound like you are taking a national professional certification in the middle of the semester. Stick to '고사' for school-level exams.

While 중간고사 is the specific term for midterms, there are several related words that you should know to navigate the academic lexical field. The most obvious counterpart is 기말고사 (Gi-mal-go-sa), which means 'final examination'. Together, these two make up the bulk of a student's grade. If you want to speak more generally about any kind of test, you use the word 시험 (Si-hyeom). While all '중간고사' are '시험', not all '시험' are '중간고사'. '시험' can refer to a driving test, a small quiz, or a certification exam.

중간고사 vs. 기말고사
'중간' is the midterm, '기말' is the final. Both are '정기고사' (regularly scheduled exams).
중간고사 vs. 쪽지시험
'쪽지시험' (Jjok-ji-si-hyeom) is a pop quiz or a small quiz, literally a 'slip of paper test'.

이번 학기에는 중간고사 대신 과제물이 있어요.

Translation: This semester, there is an assignment instead of a midterm exam.

In some modern or alternative school settings, you might hear the term 중간평가 (Jung-gan-pyeong-ga), which means 'midterm evaluation'. This is often used when the assessment isn't a traditional sit-down written test but perhaps a project, a presentation, or a performance review. Another related term is 모의고사 (Mo-ui-go-sa), which refers to a 'mock exam' or practice test, typically used for the national university entrance exam (Suneung). While '중간고사' counts for your actual grade, a '모의고사' is just for practice.

수능을 앞두고 모의고사를 봤어요.

Translation: I took a mock exam ahead of the Suneung (CSAT).

Finally, there is 수행평가 (Su-haeng-pyeong-ga), which refers to 'performance assessment'. In many Korean middle and high schools, your final grade is a combination of the 중간고사, the 기말고사, and the 수행평가. While the '고사' terms refer to the big written exams held in the gym or classroom, the '수행평가' refers to ongoing tasks like essays, lab reports, or speaking tests. Understanding these distinctions helps you grasp the complex and multifaceted nature of the Korean grading system.

How Formal Is It?

豆知識

The term '고사' was historically used for civil service exams in ancient Korea, but today it is mostly used for formal school exams. In daily life, Koreans use '시험' much more often for general tests.

発音ガイド

UK /tɕuŋ.ɡan.ɡo.sa/
US /dʒuŋ.ɡɑn.ɡoʊ.sɑ/
In Korean, syllables generally have equal weight, but there is a slight melodic rise on the first syllable '중' and a stable tone on the rest.
韻が合う語
기말고사 (Gi-mal-go-sa) 모의고사 (Mo-ui-go-sa) 국가고사 (Guk-ga-go-sa) 수행고사 (Su-haeng-go-sa) 자격고사 (Ja-gyeok-go-sa) 입학고사 (Ip-hak-go-sa) 졸업고사 (Jol-eop-go-sa) 선발고사 (Seon-bal-go-sa)
よくある間違い
  • Pronouncing '중' as 'jung' with a hard English 'J' (it should be softer).
  • Elongating the 'a' in 'gan' too much like 'gain'.
  • Making the 'g' in 'go' too breathy (it is a plain consonant).
  • Confusing '고사' with '교사' (gyo-sa).
  • Putting heavy stress on one syllable like English 'MID-term'.

難易度

読解 2/5

The word is common and easy to recognize in text due to its frequent use in academic settings.

ライティング 3/5

Requires remembering four syllables and the specific Hanja-derived structure.

スピーキング 2/5

Pronunciation is straightforward with no complex sound changes.

リスニング 2/5

Easily distinguishable in conversation, especially during April and October.

次に学ぶべきこと

前提知識

학교 (School) 공부 (Study) 시험 (Test) 선생님 (Teacher) 학생 (Student)

次に学ぶ

기말고사 (Final exam) 성적표 (Report card) 장학금 (Scholarship) 방학 (Vacation) 수업 (Class)

上級

내신 성적 (Internal school grades) 학점 이수 (Earning credits) 상대평가 (Relative grading) 절대평가 (Absolute grading) 수시 모집 (Rolling admissions)

知っておくべき文法

Object Particle -를/을

중간고사'를' 봐요.

Reason Particle -때문에

중간고사 '때문에' 바빠요.

Time Expression -동안

중간고사 기간 '동안' 공부만 했어요.

Future Intent -(으)려고

중간고사를 잘 보'려고' 열심히 해요.

Polite Ending -아/어/여요

중간고사를 준비'해요'.

レベル別の例文

1

중간고사가 있어요.

I have a midterm exam.

중간고사 (noun) + 가 (subject particle) + 있어요 (verb: to have/exist).

2

내일은 중간고사예요.

Tomorrow is the midterm exam.

내일 (tomorrow) + 은 (topic particle) + 중간고사 (midterm) + 예요 (is).

3

중간고사가 어려워요.

The midterm is difficult.

어려워요 is the polite present form of 어렵다 (to be difficult).

4

중간고사 공부해요.

I am studying for the midterm.

공부해요 is the polite present form of 공부하다 (to study).

5

중간고사 화이팅!

Good luck on the midterm!

화이팅 is a common Konglish expression of encouragement.

6

이것은 중간고사 책이에요.

This is a midterm exam book.

이것 (this) + 은 (topic particle) + 책 (book) + 이에요 (is).

7

중간고사가 끝났어요.

The midterm exam is over.

끝났어요 is the past tense of 끝나다 (to end/finish).

8

중간고사 점수가 좋아요.

The midterm score is good.

점수 (score) + 가 (subject particle) + 좋아요 (is good).

1

도서관에서 중간고사를 준비해요.

I prepare for the midterm in the library.

도서관 (library) + 에서 (location particle) + 준비해요 (prepare).

2

어제 중간고사를 봤어요.

I took the midterm exam yesterday.

어제 (yesterday) + 봤어요 (past tense of 보다 - to take a test).

3

중간고사 기간에는 바빠요.

I am busy during the midterm period.

기간 (period) + 에는 (time particle) + 바빠요 (busy).

4

수학 중간고사가 제일 힘들어요.

The math midterm is the hardest.

제일 (most/best) + 힘들어요 (is hard/tiring).

5

친구와 같이 중간고사 공부를 해요.

I study for the midterm together with a friend.

친구 (friend) + 와 (with) + 같이 (together).

6

이번 중간고사를 잘 보고 싶어요.

I want to do well on this midterm.

잘 보고 (do well and) + 싶어요 (want to).

7

중간고사 점수가 어제 나왔어요.

The midterm scores came out yesterday.

나왔어요 is the past tense of 나오다 (to come out).

8

중간고사 때문에 잠을 못 잤어요.

I couldn't sleep because of the midterm.

때문에 (because of) + 못 잤어요 (couldn't sleep).

1

중간고사 범위가 너무 넓어서 걱정이에요.

I'm worried because the midterm scope is too wide.

범위 (scope) + 가 (subject particle) + 넓어서 (because it is wide).

2

중간고사를 잘 보려고 밤을 새웠어요.

I stayed up all night to do well on the midterm.

-(으)려고 (in order to) + 밤을 새우다 (to stay up all night).

3

선생님께서 중간고사 날짜를 변경하셨어요.

The teacher changed the midterm date.

변경하셨어요 is the honorific past tense of 변경하다 (to change).

4

중간고사 성적이 생각보다 잘 안 나왔어요.

The midterm grades didn't come out as well as I thought.

생각보다 (than thought) + 잘 안 나왔어요 (did not come out well).

5

이번 중간고사는 오픈북 시험이었어요.

This midterm was an open-book exam.

오픈북 시험 (open-book exam) + 이었요 (was).

6

중간고사가 끝나면 여행을 가고 싶어요.

When the midterm is over, I want to go on a trip.

-(으)면 (if/when) + 여행을 가다 (to go on a trip).

7

중간고사 준비를 위해 학원에 다녀요.

I go to a private academy to prepare for midterms.

준비를 위해 (for the sake of preparation) + 다니요 (to attend/go).

8

중간고사 기간에는 커피를 많이 마시게 돼요.

During the midterm period, I end up drinking a lot of coffee.

-게 되다 (to end up/become) expresses a change or result.

1

중간고사 비중이 커서 소홀히 할 수 없어요.

The midterm weight is large, so I can't neglect it.

비중 (weight/importance) + 소홀히 하다 (to neglect).

2

중간고사 성적이 내신에 큰 영향을 미쳐요.

Midterm grades have a big impact on school records.

영향을 미치다 (to have an influence/impact).

3

중간고사를 망치는 바람에 기분이 안 좋아요.

Because I bombed the midterm, I'm in a bad mood.

-는 바람에 (because of - usually a negative unexpected result).

4

중간고사 기간만 되면 스트레스가 쌓여요.

Whenever it's just the midterm period, stress builds up.

-기만 하면 (whenever/only if) + 쌓이다 (to be piled up).

5

이번 중간고사는 변별력이 꽤 높았던 것 같아요.

I think this midterm had quite high discriminatory power.

변별력 (ability to distinguish between student levels).

6

중간고사를 앞두고 컨디션 조절이 중요해요.

Ahead of the midterm, managing your condition is important.

앞두고 (ahead of) + 컨디션 조절 (condition management).

7

중간고사 답안지를 제출하기 전에 다시 확인했어요.

I checked the midterm answer sheet again before submitting it.

답안지 (answer sheet) + 제출하기 전에 (before submitting).

8

중간고사 결과에 대해 부모님과 상담했어요.

I consulted with my parents about the midterm results.

결과에 대해 (about the results) + 상담하다 (to consult).

1

중간고사는 학생의 학업 성취도를 평가하는 지표입니다.

The midterm is an indicator for evaluating a student's academic achievement.

학업 성취도 (academic achievement) + 지표 (indicator).

2

중간고사를 폐지하자는 의견이 분분합니다.

Opinions on whether to abolish midterms are divided.

폐지하다 (to abolish) + 의견이 분분하다 (opinions are divided).

3

중간고사 기간의 과도한 경쟁은 청소년의 정신 건강에 해롭습니다.

Excessive competition during midterms is harmful to adolescent mental health.

과도한 경쟁 (excessive competition) + 해롭다 (to be harmful).

4

중간고사 문항 중 오류가 발견되어 재시험을 치르게 되었습니다.

An error was found in a midterm question, so a retake was held.

문항 (question/item) + 오류 (error) + 재시험 (retake).

5

중간고사 성적 이의 신청 기간은 다음 주까지입니다.

The period for appealing midterm grades is until next week.

이의 신청 (filing an objection/appeal).

6

중간고사는 단순한 암기력을 넘어 사고력을 측정해야 합니다.

Midterms should measure thinking skills beyond simple memorization.

암기력 (memorization) + 사고력 (thinking skills).

7

중간고사 성적의 하락은 학습 동기 부여에 부정적일 수 있습니다.

A drop in midterm grades can be negative for learning motivation.

하락 (drop/fall) + 동기 부여 (motivation).

8

중간고사를 통해 자신의 취약점을 파악하는 것이 중요합니다.

It is important to identify one's weaknesses through midterms.

취약점 (weak point) + 파악하다 (to grasp/identify).

1

중간고사의 사회적 위상은 한국의 교육열을 단적으로 보여줍니다.

The social status of midterms clearly demonstrates Korea's education fever.

사회적 위상 (social status) + 단적으로 (plainly/directly).

2

중간고사라는 제도적 장치가 학생들을 서열화한다는 비판이 있습니다.

There is criticism that the institutional mechanism of midterms ranks students.

제도적 장치 (institutional mechanism) + 서열화하다 (to rank).

3

중간고사 기간의 정적은 한국 사회가 교육에 부여하는 가치를 함축합니다.

The silence during midterms implies the value Korean society places on education.

정적 (silence) + 함축하다 (to imply/connote).

4

중간고사는 공교육 체제 내에서 객관적인 평가의 척도로 기능합니다.

Midterms function as a yardstick for objective evaluation within the public education system.

척도 (yardstick/measure) + 기능하다 (to function).

5

중간고사 성적에 일희일비하기보다 장기적인 학습 계획이 필요합니다.

Long-term learning plans are needed rather than swinging between joy and sorrow over midterm grades.

일희일비하다 (to alternate between joy and grief).

6

중간고사는 지식의 습득 과정을 점검하는 성찰의 기회가 되어야 합니다.

Midterms should be an opportunity for reflection to check the process of knowledge acquisition.

습득 (acquisition) + 성찰 (reflection).

7

중간고사 문항의 타당성과 신뢰성을 확보하는 것은 교육자의 책무입니다.

Ensuring the validity and reliability of midterm questions is an educator's responsibility.

타당성 (validity) + 신뢰성 (reliability) + 책무 (duty).

8

중간고사가 초래하는 심리적 기제에 대한 다각적인 연구가 진행 중입니다.

Multifaceted research on the psychological mechanisms caused by midterms is underway.

초래하다 (to cause/bring about) + 기제 (mechanism).

よく使う組み合わせ

중간고사를 보다
중간고사 기간
중간고사를 준비하다
중간고사 범위
중간고사를 망치다
중간고사 성적
중간고사 공부
중간고사 대박
중간고사를 치르다
중간고사 휴강

よく使うフレーズ

중간고사 잘 봐!

— Good luck on your midterm! This is the standard way to encourage someone taking the test.

내일 시험이지? 중간고사 잘 봐!

중간고사 끝났다!

— The midterm is over! Used to express relief and excitement when the exam period finishes.

와, 드디어 중간고사 끝났다! 이제 놀자!

중간고사 공부 중

— Currently studying for midterms. Often used as a status message or caption.

지금 중간고사 공부 중이라 전화를 못 받아요.

중간고사 범위 확인

— Checking the midterm scope. A common action students take before starting to study.

게시판에서 중간고사 범위를 확인하세요.

중간고사 간식

— Midterm snacks. Refers to food given to students to encourage them during exam week.

학교에서 중간고사 간식을 나눠줬어요.

중간고사 시간표

— Midterm exam schedule. The specific dates and times for each subject's test.

중간고사 시간표가 아직 안 나왔어요.

중간고사 대비

— Preparation/Countermeasure for midterms. Often used in Hagwon marketing.

중간고사 대비 특강을 신청했어요.

중간고사 점수

— Midterm score. The numerical result of the examination.

중간고사 점수가 몇 점이에요?

중간고사 대체 과제

— Midterm replacement assignment. An essay or project given instead of a written test.

이 과목은 중간고사 대체 과제가 있어요.

중간고사 만점

— Perfect score on the midterm. Getting 100% on the test.

그는 이번 중간고사에서 만점을 받았어요.

よく混同される語

중간고사 vs 기말고사

Final exam. People often mix them up because they sound similar, but '중간' is the first major test of the term.

중간고사 vs 모의고사

Mock exam. These don't count for your actual school grade, whereas midterms do.

중간고사 vs 수능

The national university entrance exam. This is a one-time huge event, while midterms happen every semester.

慣用句と表現

"벼락치기"

— Cramming for an exam. Literally 'lightning strike', implying a sudden, intense effort at the last minute.

중간고사를 위해 어젯밤에 벼락치기를 했어요.

Informal
"멘붕 (멘탈 붕괴)"

— Mental breakdown. Often used when a student sees a very difficult question on a midterm.

중간고사 문제가 너무 어려워서 멘붕이 왔어요.

Slang
"밤을 새우다"

— To stay up all night. A very common activity during the midterm period.

중간고사 공부하느라 밤을 새웠어요.

Neutral
"떡하니 붙다"

— To pass a test easily or firmly. Derived from the tradition of eating sticky rice cakes (Tteok) to make knowledge 'stick'.

중간고사 잘 보고 원하는 등급에 떡하니 붙으세요!

Informal
"미역국을 먹다"

— To fail an exam. Because seaweed soup is slippery, knowledge is said to 'slip' away.

이번 중간고사에서 미역국을 먹으면 안 돼요.

Informal
"찍다"

— To guess an answer on a multiple-choice test. Literally 'to dot' or 'to poke'.

모르는 문제는 그냥 찍었어요.

Informal
"코피 터지게 공부하다"

— To study until one gets a nosebleed. Implies studying extremely hard.

중간고사 1등을 하려고 코피 터지게 공부했어요.

Colloquial
"학점 괴물"

— GPA monster. A student who gets perfect grades on every midterm and final.

그 친구는 중간고사도 다 맞은 학점 괴물이에요.

Slang
"시험 기간 모드"

— Exam period mode. Being in a focused, no-fun state of mind for midterms.

이제 중간고사니까 시험 기간 모드로 들어갑니다.

Informal
"정줄 놓다 (정신줄 놓다)"

— To lose one's mind/sanity. Often used after a very long midterm study session.

중간고사 공부를 너무 많이 해서 정줄을 놓았어요.

Slang

間違えやすい

중간고사 vs 교사

Sounds similar to '고사'.

교사 (Gyo-sa) means 'teacher' or 'school building'. 고사 (Go-sa) means 'exam'.

선생님은 훌륭한 교사입니다. (The teacher is a great teacher.)

중간고사 vs 고시

Both refer to exams.

고시 (Go-si) is for high-level professional or civil service exams (like the bar exam). 고사 (Go-sa) is for regular school exams.

그는 사법 고시를 준비해요. (He is preparing for the bar exam.)

중간고사 vs 중간에

Contains the same first two syllables.

중간에 (Jung-gan-e) is an adverbial phrase meaning 'in the middle of' or 'halfway through'.

영화 중간에 나갔어요. (I left in the middle of the movie.)

중간고사 vs 기말

It is the opposite part of the pair.

기말 (Gi-mal) refers to the end of the term. 중간 (Jung-gan) refers to the middle.

기말 과제가 많아요. (There are many final assignments.)

중간고사 vs 시험

It is a broader category.

시험 (Si-hyeom) is any test. 중간고사 is specifically the midterm.

운전 면허 시험을 봐요. (I'm taking a driver's license test.)

文型パターン

A1

[Subject] + 중간고사가 있다

저는 중간고사가 있어요.

A2

[Time] + 중간고사를 보다

내일 중간고사를 봐요.

B1

중간고사 때문에 [Result]

중간고사 때문에 잠을 못 잤어요.

B2

중간고사 [Noun] + -이/가 중요하다

중간고사 성적이 중요해요.

C1

중간고사를 통해 [Action]

중간고사를 통해 실력을 확인해요.

C2

중간고사가 [Abstract Noun] + -로 작용하다

중간고사가 큰 부담으로 작용해요.

Mixed

중간고사 끝나고 [Plan]

중간고사 끝나고 영화 보자.

Mixed

이번 중간고사는 [Adjective]

이번 중간고사는 정말 쉬웠어요.

語族

名詞

중간 (Middle)
고사 (Examination)
시험 (Test)
평가 (Evaluation)
성적 (Grade)

動詞

시험보다 (To take a test)
평가하다 (To evaluate)
준비하다 (To prepare)
공부하다 (To study)

形容詞

중간의 (Middle/Intermediate)
시험적인 (Experimental/Tentative)

関連

기말고사 (Final exam)
내신 (School records)
학점 (Credit/GPA)
수능 (CSAT)
도서관 (Library)

使い方

frequency

Very high during the months of April, May, October, and November.

よくある間違い
  • Using '중간고사를 해요' for taking the exam. 중간고사를 봐요.

    In Korean, you 'see' a test, you don't 'do' it.

  • Spelling it as '중간교사'. 중간고사.

    '교사' means teacher. '고사' means exam.

  • Confusing '중간고사' with '수능'. 중간고사 is midterm; 수능 is the college entrance exam.

    Midterms happen twice a year; the CSAT (Suneung) happens once in a lifetime (usually).

  • Using '중간고사' for a 5-minute quiz. 쪽지시험.

    '중간고사' refers to the major, scheduled exam period.

  • Using the 'for' particle '위해' incorrectly. 중간고사 공부를 해요.

    While '중간고사를 위해' is grammatically possible, '중간고사 공부' is much more natural for 'studying for midterms'.

ヒント

Use the right particle

Always use '를' when taking the exam. '중간고사를 봐요' is the correct way to express the action of taking the test.

Caffeine Culture

During midterm season, expect 'Study Cafes' to be full. It's a great time to see how hard Korean students work.

Wishing Luck

Tell your Korean friends '중간고사 화이팅!' to show your support. They will appreciate the encouragement during a stressful time.

Learn the Pair

Always learn '중간고사' and '기말고사' together. They are the two main pillars of the academic year.

Plan Ahead

If you are in Korea, plan your library visits or cafe study sessions early during '중간고사 기간' because space becomes limited.

Not for Quizzes

Don't use '중간고사' for small weekly quizzes. Use '쪽지시험' for those smaller, less formal assessments.

Identify the Season

If you hear everyone saying '중간고사' in April, you know it's exam season. It's a great environmental cue.

Hanja Roots

Remembering that '중간' means 'middle' will help you remember many other words like '중간 단계' (middle stage).

Forgive Absences

If your Korean language exchange partner is slow to reply in late October, they are likely busy with '중간고사'.

The 'See' Logic

Think of taking an exam as 'seeing' the questions. This will help you remember to use the verb '보다'.

暗記しよう

記憶術

Think of 'Jung' as 'Junction' (middle point), 'Gan' as 'Gap' (the gap between semesters), and 'Go-Sa' as 'Go Study' (because you have to go study for the exam!).

視覚的連想

Visualize a calendar with a big red 'X' right in the middle of the months of April and October, with a student surrounded by piles of books.

Word Web

School April/October Stress Coffee Grades Library Pencil Final Exam

チャレンジ

Try to use the word '중간고사' three times today: once when talking about your schedule, once when talking about a friend, and once in a question.

語源

The word is composed of two Hanja terms: 中間 (중간 - Jung-gan) and 考試 (고사 - Go-sa). 中 means 'middle', 間 means 'between', 考 means 'to examine', and 試 means 'to test'.

元の意味: Examination held in the middle of a term.

Sino-Korean (Hanja-derived).

文化的な背景

Be sensitive when asking about midterm results; in Korea, grades can be a very private and stressful topic. Only ask close friends.

While Western schools also have midterms, the social pressure and the 'all-night' culture in Korea are often much more pronounced and centralized around specific weeks.

The drama 'Sky Castle' depicts the extreme lengths parents go to for midterm success. Many K-pop idols post 'Exam Support' videos for fans during midterm season. The webtoon 'True Beauty' shows characters balancing social life and midterms.

実生活で練習する

実際の使用場面

At a University Library

  • 빈 자리 있어요?
  • 중간고사 공부 중이에요?
  • 커피 좀 마실까요?
  • 몇 시까지 공부할 거예요?

Talking to a Teacher

  • 중간고사가 언제예요?
  • 범위가 어디까지예요?
  • 시험이 어려울까요?
  • 힌트 좀 주실 수 있어요?

At a Study Cafe

  • 중간고사 기간이라 자리가 없네요.
  • 충전기 빌릴 수 있을까요?
  • 조용히 해 주세요.
  • 간식 좀 먹을까요?

Texting a Friend

  • 중간고사 잘 봐!
  • 공부 다 했어?
  • 나 하나도 안 했어.
  • 끝나고 맛있는 거 먹자!

Checking Results

  • 점수 확인했어?
  • 성적 잘 나왔어?
  • 평균이 몇 점이야?
  • 기말고사 때 잘하면 돼.

会話のきっかけ

"이번 중간고사 준비는 잘 돼가고 있어요?"

"중간고사 범위가 너무 많지 않아요?"

"중간고사 끝나면 뭐 하고 싶어요?"

"어떤 과목 중간고사가 제일 걱정돼요?"

"보통 중간고사 공부는 어디서 하세요?"

日記のテーマ

이번 중간고사를 준비하면서 가장 힘들었던 점은 무엇인가요?

중간고사가 끝난 후의 기분을 자세히 묘사해 보세요.

내가 만약 선생님이라면 중간고사 문제를 어떻게 내고 싶나요?

중간고사 기간 동안의 나의 하루 일과를 적어 보세요.

성적보다 중요한 것은 무엇이라고 생각하는지 중간고사와 관련지어 써 보세요.

よくある質問

10 問

In the first semester, midterms usually happen in late April. In the second semester, they occur in late October. However, specific dates vary by school.

Recently, many elementary schools in Korea have abolished formal midterms and finals to reduce stress, opting for ongoing performance assessments instead.

The term is used, but the educational structure and specific vocabulary for exams can differ. '시험' is universally understood.

The most common verb is '보다' (to see/take). You should say '중간고사를 보다'.

Most do, but some classes might replace the midterm with a large project or essay, known as '대체 과제'.

In Korean culture, it can be sensitive. It's better to ask 'How did it go?' (잘 봤어요?) rather than 'What was your score?' (몇 점이에요?).

You can say '중간고사 공부를 하다' or '중간고사를 준비하다'.

It's a way of wishing someone great success on their midterm. '대박' means 'jackpot' or 'awesome success'.

Usually, you need a medical certificate to get a 'recognized absence' (인정결석), and your grade might be calculated based on your final exam score.

Not officially, but the weekend after midterms is usually a time for students to rest and have fun before regular classes resume.

自分をテスト 180 問

writing

Write 'I am studying for the midterm' in Korean.

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

正解! おしい! 正解:
writing

Write 'The midterm was difficult' in Korean.

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

正解! おしい! 正解:
writing

Write 'When is the midterm?' in Korean.

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

正解! おしい! 正解:
writing

Write 'I took the midterm yesterday' in Korean.

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

正解! おしい! 正解:
writing

Write 'Good luck on the midterm!' in Korean.

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

正解! おしい! 正解:
writing

Write 'The midterm is over' in Korean.

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

正解! おしい! 正解:
writing

Write 'I got a good grade on the midterm' in Korean.

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

正解! おしい! 正解:
writing

Write 'I'm busy because of the midterm' in Korean.

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

正解! おしい! 正解:
writing

Write 'What is the midterm scope?' in Korean.

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正解! おしい! 正解:
writing

Write 'I stay up all night for the midterm' in Korean.

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正解! おしい! 正解:
writing

Write 'There is a math midterm tomorrow' in Korean.

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

正解! おしい! 正解:
writing

Write 'I am preparing for the midterm in the library' in Korean.

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

正解! おしい! 正解:
writing

Write 'I messed up the midterm' in Korean.

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

正解! おしい! 正解:
writing

Write 'Is the midterm hard?' in Korean.

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

正解! おしい! 正解:
writing

Write 'I want a perfect score on the midterm' in Korean.

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

正解! おしい! 正解:
writing

Write 'Finally, midterms are finished' in Korean.

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

正解! おしい! 正解:
writing

Write 'Don't worry about the midterm' in Korean.

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

正解! おしい! 正解:
writing

Write 'The midterm counts for 40%' in Korean.

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

正解! おしい! 正解:
writing

Write 'I'm at a study cafe for midterms' in Korean.

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

正解! おしい! 正解:
writing

Write 'Let's eat after the midterm' in Korean.

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

正解! おしい! 正解:
speaking

Pronounce '중간고사' clearly.

Read this aloud:

正解! おしい! 正解:
speaking

How do you say 'I have a midterm'?

Read this aloud:

正解! おしい! 正解:
speaking

Say 'Good luck on the midterm' to a friend.

Read this aloud:

正解! おしい! 正解:
speaking

Ask 'When is the midterm?'

Read this aloud:

正解! おしい! 正解:
speaking

Say 'The midterm was easy.'

Read this aloud:

正解! おしい! 正解:
speaking

Say 'I am studying for the midterm.'

Read this aloud:

正解! おしい! 正解:
speaking

Ask 'Did you do well on the midterm?'

Read this aloud:

正解! おしい! 正解:
speaking

Say 'I'm tired because of the midterm.'

Read this aloud:

正解! おしい! 正解:
speaking

Say 'The midterm is finished!'

Read this aloud:

正解! おしい! 正解:
speaking

Ask 'What is the midterm scope?'

Read this aloud:

正解! おしい! 正解:
speaking

Say 'I'm going to the library for midterms.'

Read this aloud:

正解! おしい! 正解:
speaking

Say 'I bombed the midterm.'

Read this aloud:

正解! おしい! 正解:
speaking

Say 'I want to get a 100 on the midterm.'

Read this aloud:

正解! おしい! 正解:
speaking

Say 'Midterms are really stressful.'

Read this aloud:

正解! おしい! 正解:
speaking

Say 'Let's study together for midterms.'

Read this aloud:

正解! おしい! 正解:
speaking

Say 'The midterm schedule came out.'

Read this aloud:

正解! おしい! 正解:
speaking

Say 'I have three midterms next week.'

Read this aloud:

正解! おしい! 正解:
speaking

Say 'I'm preparing for the midterm.'

Read this aloud:

正解! おしい! 正解:
speaking

Say 'Don't worry about the midterm.'

Read this aloud:

正解! おしい! 正解:
speaking

Say 'I'm happy the midterm is over.'

Read this aloud:

正解! おしい! 正解:
listening

Listen to the word: 중간고사. What is it?

正解! おしい! 正解:
正解! おしい! 正解:
listening

Listen: '내일 중간고사 봐요.' When is the exam?

正解! おしい! 正解:
正解! おしい! 正解:
listening

Listen: '중간고사 잘 봤어?' What is the person asking?

正解! おしい! 正解:
正解! おしい! 正解:
listening

Listen: '중간고사 기간이에요.' What period is it?

正解! おしい! 正解:
正解! おしい! 正解:
listening

Listen: '중간고사가 너무 어려워요.' How is the exam?

正解! おしい! 正解:
正解! おしい! 正解:
listening

Listen: '중간고사 공부하러 가요.' Where is the person likely going?

正解! おしい! 正解:
正解! おしい! 正解:
listening

Listen: '중간고사 끝났어!' How does the person feel?

正解! おしい! 正解:
正解! おしい! 正解:
listening

Listen: '수학 중간고사 망쳤어.' Which subject did they bomb?

正解! おしい! 正解:
正解! おしい! 正解:
listening

Listen: '중간고사 범위 확인해.' What should you check?

正解! おしい! 正解:
正解! おしい! 正解:
listening

Listen: '이번 중간고사는 4월에 봐요.' In which month is the exam?

正解! おしい! 正解:
正解! おしい! 正解:
listening

Listen: '중간고사 성적이 나왔어.' What came out?

正解! おしい! 正解:
正解! おしい! 正解:
listening

Listen: '중간고사 화이팅!' What is the speaker doing?

正解! おしい! 正解:
正解! おしい! 正解:
listening

Listen: '중간고사 때문에 밤샜어.' Why did they stay up?

正解! おしい! 正解:
正解! おしい! 正解:
listening

Listen: '중간고사 대신 과제해.' What are they doing instead of a test?

正解! おしい! 正解:
正解! おしい! 正解:
listening

Listen: '중간고사 시간표 봤어?' What are they asking about?

正解! おしい! 正解:
正解! おしい! 正解:

/ 180 correct

Perfect score!

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