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B1 noun #15 가장 일반적인 12분 분량

karaoke

상위 15

At the A1 level, you can think of karaoke as a simple game where you sing songs. It is a word you might learn when talking about hobbies or things you do for fun with friends. You can say 'I like karaoke' or 'I sing karaoke.' You might see this word on a sign at a party or in a movie. It is a noun, which means it is a thing. The most important thing to know is that it involves music and singing. You don't need to worry about the history of the word yet, just that it is a fun activity people do together in a group.

For A2 learners, karaoke is described as a form of entertainment. You can use it to talk about your weekend plans. For example, 'Last Saturday, I went to a karaoke bar with my classmates.' You should know that it involves a machine and a screen with words. You can also use it as an adjective to describe things, like a 'karaoke machine' or a 'karaoke song.' At this level, you should be able to ask someone if they like karaoke or what their favorite karaoke song is. It is a very common social activity in many countries, so it is a useful word for basic social interactions.

At the B1 level, you should understand that karaoke is a specific cultural activity that originated in Japan. You can describe the process: you choose a song, the music plays without the singer's voice, and you sing the lyrics that appear on the screen. You can use more complex sentences, such as 'Even though I am not a good singer, I enjoy karaoke because it is a great way to relax.' You should also be aware of the different settings, like private rooms versus public stages. You might hear people talking about 'karaoke versions' of songs on the internet, which are useful for practicing your English through music.

B2 learners should be comfortable using karaoke in various contexts, including its metaphorical use. For instance, a critic might describe a performance as 'feeling like karaoke,' meaning it lacks originality. You should understand the social dynamics involved, such as how karaoke can be used for team-building or as a way to break the ice in new social groups. You can discuss the global popularity of karaoke and how it varies between cultures, such as the difference between Western karaoke bars and Asian KTV lounges. You should also be familiar with related terms like 'backing track' or 'instrumental version.'

At the C1 level, you can explore the nuances of karaoke as a social and psychological phenomenon. You might discuss how it allows for 'performative vulnerability' or how it serves as a form of modern-day folk music where the community participates in the creation of the experience. You should be able to use the word fluently in discussions about media, technology, and social trends. You can also analyze the etymology of the word—'empty orchestra'—and how that reflects the Japanese aesthetic of 'ma' or empty space. Your vocabulary should include collocations like 'karaoke aficionado' or 'impromptu karaoke session.'

For C2 learners, karaoke can be a subject of academic or sociological discussion. You might analyze its role in the democratization of music or its impact on the recording industry. You should be able to use the term with precision in complex arguments, perhaps discussing the 'karaoke-ization' of culture, where participation and imitation are valued over traditional expertise. You should also be aware of the most subtle connotations, such as its use in describing political or corporate mimicry. At this level, you have a deep understanding of both the literal activity and the broad cultural implications of the word across different societies.

연습하기 예시 노트와 팁

karaoke 30초 만에

Karaoke is a fun social activity where you sing along to instrumental music while reading lyrics on a screen, popular in bars and parties.
Originating in Japan, the word literally means 'empty orchestra,' referring to the absence of the original singer's voice on the backing track.
It serves as a global form of entertainment that encourages participation, social bonding, and stress relief through amateur musical performance.
The activity can take place in public venues like karaoke bars or in private rented rooms, often called KTV or noraebang in Asia.

At its core, karaoke is a participatory form of entertainment that bridges the gap between professional performance and amateur enthusiasm. The term describes an activity where individuals sing along to recorded instrumental versions of popular songs, guided by lyrics displayed on a video screen. It is not merely about the act of singing; it is a social ritual, a method of stress relief, and a cultural phenomenon that has transcended its East Asian origins to become a global staple of nightlife and domestic celebration. People use this word when discussing weekend plans, describing a specific type of bar, or referring to the technology itself, such as a karaoke machine or a mobile app designed for vocal practice.

The Social Setting: Karaoke is most commonly associated with social bonding. Whether it is a group of colleagues blowing off steam after a long work week or a family gathering where multiple generations share a microphone, the context is almost always one of shared experience. In many cultures, the ability to perform karaoke—regardless of vocal talent—is seen as a sign of being a 'good sport' and a social team player.

Even though she was incredibly shy, Sarah decided to join her coworkers for a night of karaoke to celebrate the end of the project.

The word also encompasses the physical environment. In Western countries, this often means a 'karaoke bar' where individuals perform on a stage in front of a room full of strangers. In contrast, in many Asian countries, the 'karaoke box' or 'KTV' model is more prevalent, where private rooms are rented by groups to ensure a more intimate and less intimidating environment. This distinction is crucial for learners to understand, as the 'karaoke experience' can vary wildly depending on the geographical and cultural context. The technology involved has also evolved from bulky laserdisc players to sophisticated digital systems that can pitch-shift music to match the singer's range, further lowering the barrier to entry for the musically uninclined.

The Psychological Aspect: Psychologically, karaoke serves as a form of 'catharsis.' It allows individuals to step out of their daily personas and embody the role of a rock star or a pop diva for three to four minutes. This temporary escape is a significant reason for its enduring popularity. It is also a test of vulnerability; standing in front of others and potentially hitting a wrong note requires a level of confidence that, once exercised, can strengthen social ties through mutual laughter and support.

The bachelor party reached its peak when the groom-to-be performed a hilarious karaoke rendition of an 80s power ballad.

The Professional vs. Amateur Divide: While karaoke is primarily for amateurs, it has birthed its own subculture of 'karaoke stars'—people who take the hobby very seriously, practicing their signature songs and even entering competitions. However, the true spirit of the word remains rooted in the 'empty orchestra' concept, where the music is waiting for anyone to fill the void with their own voice, regardless of quality.

We didn't need a live band for the wedding reception because the karaoke setup provided hours of entertainment for the guests.

I downloaded a karaoke app so I could practice my favorite songs in the car during my commute.

The local pub hosts a karaoke night every Thursday, attracting a diverse crowd of singers.

Using the word karaoke correctly involves understanding its role as both a noun and an adjective. Most commonly, it follows verbs like 'sing,' 'do,' 'perform,' or 'go to.' For instance, you don't 'play' karaoke like you play a sport; rather, you 'sing' karaoke or 'go to' a karaoke bar. It is also frequently used to describe equipment or events, such as a 'karaoke machine,' 'karaoke track,' or 'karaoke party.' Understanding these collocations is key to sounding natural in English conversations.

Verb Pairings: The most common verb is 'sing.' Example: 'I love singing karaoke on Friday nights.' However, 'do' is also used informally: 'Are we doing karaoke tonight?' When referring to the venue, use 'go to': 'Let's go to that new karaoke place downtown.'

The highlight of the evening was when the CEO stood up to sing karaoke with the interns.

When using it as an adjective, it modifies the noun that follows to indicate that the item is specifically for karaoke. A 'karaoke version' of a song is one without the lead vocals. A 'karaoke lounge' is a specific type of establishment. It is important to note that 'karaoke' is usually uncountable when referring to the activity, but countable when referring to the machine or the event (e.g., 'We have two karaokes planned this month' is rare; 'We have two karaoke parties' is better). In academic or formal writing, you might describe it as 'a form of interactive entertainment' or 'vocal performance to pre-recorded tracks.'

Prepositional Usage: We use 'at' for locations: 'We were at a karaoke bar.' We use 'on' for the system: 'The lyrics are displayed on the karaoke screen.' We use 'to' for the action: 'Singing along to karaoke tracks is a great way to learn lyrics.'

She spent the whole afternoon searching for a high-quality karaoke backing track for her audition.

Describing the Experience: Adjectives often used with karaoke include 'bad,' 'enthusiastic,' 'drunken,' 'impromptu,' or 'competitive.' These help paint a picture of the atmosphere. For example, 'The bar was filled with the sound of enthusiastic, if slightly off-key, karaoke.'

The cruise ship offered nightly karaoke sessions in the main lounge for all passengers.

My neighbors hosted a karaoke marathon that lasted until three in the morning.

The restaurant installed a karaoke system to attract more customers on weeknights.

The word karaoke is ubiquitous in modern urban life. You will hear it in casual conversations among friends planning a night out, in advertisements for bars and clubs, and in the media. In movies and television shows, karaoke is a frequent plot device used to show a character's hidden talents, their willingness to embarrass themselves, or a moment of bonding between protagonists. Think of the iconic karaoke scenes in films like 'Lost in Translation' or '500 Days of Summer,' where the activity serves as a backdrop for emotional development.

In the Hospitality Industry: Waitstaff and bartenders use the word constantly. You might hear, 'The karaoke starts at 9 PM,' or 'We have a private karaoke room available for your party.' In travel contexts, hotels and resorts often list karaoke as one of their amenities, especially in regions like Southeast Asia where it is a primary form of leisure.

The tour guide mentioned that the city's nightlife is famous for its high-end karaoke clubs.

In the digital age, the word has migrated to the tech world. You'll see it in app stores ('Top 10 Karaoke Apps'), on YouTube ('Karaoke version with lyrics'), and on social media platforms like TikTok, where 'karaoke challenges' often go viral. Even in professional music circles, the term is used to describe 'minus-one' tracks or instrumental accompaniments used for practice. It's also common in corporate settings during team-building retreats, where 'corporate karaoke' is used to break down hierarchical barriers and foster a sense of community among employees.

Pop Culture References: Reality TV singing competitions like 'American Idol' or 'The X Factor' often reference karaoke, sometimes disparagingly (e.g., 'That performance felt a bit like karaoke'), implying that the singer lacked original artistry. This usage highlights a different nuance of the word—one that suggests imitation rather than creation.

The judge told the contestant that while her voice was good, the performance was too karaoke and lacked personal style.

Everyday Social Planning: In group chats, you'll see messages like 'Karaoke tonight?' or 'Who's up for some karaoke?' It has become a shorthand for a specific type of fun that involves music, drinks, and social interaction.

I can't believe we spent eighty dollars on karaoke and snacks last night!

The retirement home organized a karaoke afternoon to help residents socialize and reminisce.

During the long flight, I watched a documentary about the history of karaoke in Japan.

While karaoke is a widely understood word, learners often encounter pitfalls in pronunciation, grammar, and usage. The most common mistake is pronunciation. In English, it is typically pronounced 'carry-OH-key' (/ˌkæriˈoʊki/), whereas the original Japanese pronunciation is closer to 'kah-rah-oh-keh.' Using the Japanese pronunciation in an English-speaking context might actually cause confusion, as the Anglicized version is the standard. Another frequent error is using the word as a verb (e.g., 'Let's karaoke tonight'). While this is becoming more common in informal slang, it is technically more correct to say 'Let's sing karaoke' or 'Let's go to karaoke.'

Grammatical Errors: Many learners treat 'karaoke' as a countable noun when referring to the activity. For example, saying 'I did three karaokes' is incorrect. You should say 'I sang three songs at karaoke' or 'I went to karaoke three times.' However, when referring to the machine, it is countable: 'The bar has two karaoke machines.'

Incorrect: We are going to karaoke a song. Correct: We are going to sing a karaoke song.

Another mistake is confusing 'karaoke' with 'lip-syncing.' In karaoke, you are actually singing the words yourself. In lip-syncing, you are only moving your lips to the original singer's voice. Misusing these terms can lead to misunderstandings about the nature of a performance. Additionally, some learners use 'karaoke' to describe any kind of singing along to music, but the term specifically implies the use of a backing track and displayed lyrics. Singing along to the radio in your car is just 'singing along,' not necessarily 'doing karaoke' unless you have the specific setup.

Usage Nuances: Using 'karaoke' as a pejorative (negative) adjective is common in music criticism. If someone says a concert was 'a bit karaoke,' they mean it felt unoriginal or like a cheap imitation. Learners should be aware of this negative connotation so they don't accidentally insult a professional musician.

He made the mistake of calling the live band a karaoke act, which offended the lead singer.

Preposition Pitfalls: Avoid saying 'sing in karaoke.' The correct prepositions are 'sing karaoke' (no preposition) or 'sing at a karaoke bar.' You might also 'sing along to a karaoke track.'

She practiced her solo by singing along to the karaoke version on her computer.

Don't say 'I am a karaoke'; say 'I am a karaoke fan' or 'I like karaoke.'

The sign said 'Karaoke Night,' but there was no machine, only a guy with a guitar.

While karaoke is a very specific term, there are several related words and alternatives that can help you describe similar activities or nuances. Understanding these can broaden your vocabulary and help you choose the right word for the right situation. For example, 'sing-along' is a broader term, while 'open mic' implies a different level of skill and expectation. In different cultures, specific names like 'KTV' or 'noraebang' are used, and knowing these can be very helpful when traveling or speaking with people from those regions.

Karaoke vs. Sing-along: A 'sing-along' is usually a group activity where everyone sings together, often led by a performer or a recording. Karaoke is typically an individual or small group performance where one person takes the lead while others watch. Sing-alongs are common in schools or at community events, whereas karaoke is a staple of nightlife.

The children's movie screening was a 'sing-along' event, which is different from a karaoke session.

Another alternative is 'open mic.' An open mic night at a club or cafe allows anyone to perform, but it usually involves live instruments or original material, and the audience expects a certain level of talent. Karaoke, by contrast, relies on pre-recorded tracks and is generally more forgiving of poor singing. 'Lip-syncing' is another related term, but as mentioned before, it involves no actual singing. In recent years, 'carpool karaoke' has become a popular term thanks to late-night television, referring specifically to singing along to the radio while driving.

Comparison Table

Karaoke: Pre-recorded backing tracks, lyrics on screen, amateur focus.
Open Mic: Live performance, often original music, higher skill expectation.
Sing-along: Group participation, often informal, no solo focus.
Lip-sync: Moving lips to a vocal track, no actual singing involved.

Instead of a standard karaoke bar, they went to an open mic night to hear local songwriters.

Formal Alternatives: In more formal or technical contexts, you might use phrases like 'vocal accompaniment to recorded media' or 'interactive musical entertainment.' However, these are rarely used in everyday speech.

The resort offers various forms of interactive musical entertainment, including karaoke and dance lessons.

The 'noraebang' culture in Seoul is quite different from the karaoke bars in London.

We didn't do karaoke; we just had a sing-along around the campfire with a guitar.

How Formal Is It?

격식체

중립

비격식체

Child friendly

속어

재미있는 사실

The inventor of the first karaoke machine, Daisuke Inoue, did not patent his invention and therefore did not make much money from it, though he later received an Ig Nobel Peace Prize for 'providing an entirely new way for people to learn to tolerate each other.'

발음 가이드

UK /ˌkærɪˈəʊki/

US /ˌkæriˈoʊki/

The primary stress is on the third syllable: ka-ra-O-ke.

라임이 맞는 단어

okey-dokey smoky poky croaky folky low-key holy slowly

자주 하는 실수

Pronouncing it as 'ka-RA-o-ke' (stressing the second syllable).
Pronouncing it as 'ka-ra-oke' (two syllables).
Using the Japanese 'keh' sound at the end instead of the English 'key' sound.
Mumbling the 'ra' syllable.
Confusing the 'o' sound with an 'ah' sound.

난이도

독해 2/5

The word is easy to recognize as it is used globally.

쓰기 3/5

The spelling can be tricky (the 'a' and 'o' placement).

말하기 3/5

The English pronunciation differs from the Japanese original.

듣기 2/5

It is usually pronounced clearly in most contexts.

다음에 무엇을 배울까

선수 학습

sing music song machine screen

다음에 배울 것

performance instrumental lyrics rhythm melody

고급

catharsis participatory democratization etymology appropriation

알아야 할 문법

Gerunds as subjects

Singing karaoke is my favorite way to spend a Saturday night.

Compound nouns

The karaoke machine was broken, so we had to sing acapella.

Prepositions of place

We were at the karaoke bar until midnight.

Adjectives modifying nouns

She chose a popular karaoke track for her performance.

Zero article with activities

I love karaoke.

수준별 예문

I like to sing karaoke.

J'aime chanter au karaoké.

Subject + verb + object.

Is there karaoke at the party?

Y a-t-il un karaoké à la fête ?

Question form with 'is there'.

We sing karaoke on Friday.

Nous chantons au karaoké le vendredi.

Present simple for habits.

This is a karaoke machine.

C'est une machine de karaoké.

Demonstrative pronoun + 'is'.

He is good at karaoke.

Il est doué pour le karaoké.

Adjective phrase 'good at'.

Do you want to do karaoke?

Veux-tu faire du karaoké ?

Question with 'do you want'.

The karaoke is fun.

Le karaoké est amusant.

Noun + 'is' + adjective.

I have a karaoke app.

J'ai une application de karaoké.

Possessive 'have'.

We went to a karaoke bar last night.

Nous sommes allés dans un bar karaoké hier soir.

Past simple of 'go'.

She chose a very difficult karaoke song.

Elle a choisi une chanson de karaoké très difficile.

Adjective 'difficult' modifying 'song'.

My favorite hobby is singing karaoke.

Mon passe-temps favori est de chanter au karaoké.

Gerund 'singing' as a subject complement.

Can we rent a private karaoke room?

Pouvons-nous louer une salle de karaoké privée ?

Modal verb 'can' for requests.

The karaoke screen shows the lyrics.

L'écran de karaoké affiche les paroles.

Present simple for facts.

I am too shy to do karaoke.

Je suis trop timide pour faire du karaoké.

'Too' + adjective + 'to' + verb.

They host a karaoke night every Tuesday.

Ils organisent une soirée karaoké tous les mardis.

Frequency adverb 'every'.

The karaoke music was very loud.

La musique du karaoké était très forte.

Past simple 'was' + adjective.

Karaoke is a great way to practice your English pronunciation.

Le karaoké est un excellent moyen de pratiquer votre prononciation anglaise.

Gerund phrase as a subject.

I prefer private karaoke rooms to singing on a stage.

Je préfère les salles de karaoké privées à chanter sur une scène.

Verb 'prefer' with 'to'.

The karaoke version of the song doesn't have any vocals.

La version karaoké de la chanson n'a pas de voix.

Negative present simple.

We had a lot of fun at the karaoke party despite our bad singing.

Nous nous sommes beaucoup amusés à la fête karaoké malgré notre chant médiocre.

Preposition 'despite'.

You should try karaoke if you want to overcome your stage fright.

Tu devrais essayer le karaoké si tu veux surmonter ton trac.

Conditional sentence type 1.

The restaurant provides a karaoke system for special events.

Le restaurant fournit un système de karaoké pour les événements spéciaux.

Present simple with 'provides'.

I've been practicing this karaoke song for weeks.

Je m'entraîne sur cette chanson de karaoké depuis des semaines.

Present perfect continuous.

Karaoke originated in Japan in the 1970s.

Le karaoké est né au Japon dans les années 1970.

Past simple for historical facts.

The karaoke bar was so crowded that we had to wait an hour for a song.

Le bar karaoké était si bondé que nous avons dû attendre une heure pour une chanson.

'So' + adjective + 'that' clause.

Karaoke has become a global phenomenon, enjoyed by people of all ages.

Le karaoké est devenu un phénomène mondial, apprécié par des personnes de tous âges.

Present perfect with a participle phrase.

He gave a surprisingly professional karaoke performance at the wedding.

Il a fait une performance de karaoké étonnamment professionnelle au mariage.

Adverb 'surprisingly' modifying an adjective.

Many people find karaoke to be an effective form of stress relief.

Beaucoup de gens trouvent que le karaoké est une forme efficace de soulagement du stress.

Verb 'find' + object + infinitive.

The movie features a hilarious scene where the main characters bond over karaoke.

Le film présente une scène hilarante où les personnages principaux se lient autour d'un karaoké.

Relative clause starting with 'where'.

I'm looking for a karaoke track that includes backing vocals.

Je cherche une piste de karaoké qui inclut des chœurs.

Present continuous with a relative clause.

Karaoke technology has evolved significantly since the days of laserdiscs.

La technologie du karaoké a considérablement évolué depuis l'époque des laserdiscs.

Present perfect with 'since'.

The judge criticized the singer for having a 'karaoke style' rather than a unique voice.

Le juge a critiqué la chanteuse pour avoir un 'style karaoké' plutôt qu'une voix unique.

Gerund after a preposition.

The cultural significance of karaoke in East Asia cannot be overstated.

L'importance culturelle du karaoké en Asie de l'Est ne saurait être surestimée.

Passive voice with a modal.

Karaoke serves as a democratic space where anyone can be a star for a few minutes.

Le karaoké sert d'espace démocratique où n'importe qui peut être une star pendant quelques minutes.

Metaphorical use of 'democratic space'.

The sheer variety of karaoke apps available today has revolutionized the way we practice music.

La grande variété d'applications de karaoké disponibles aujourd'hui a révolutionné notre façon de pratiquer la musique.

Noun phrase as a complex subject.

Despite its reputation for being amateurish, karaoke requires a certain level of social courage.

Malgré sa réputation d'être amateur, le karaoké exige un certain courage social.

Concessive clause with 'despite'.

The etymology of 'karaoke'—meaning 'empty orchestra'—perfectly encapsulates its essence.

L'étymologie de 'karaoké' — qui signifie 'orchestre vide' — résume parfaitement son essence.

Appositive phrase for explanation.

Karaoke bars often act as a 'third place' for social interaction outside of work and home.

Les bars karaoké servent souvent de 'troisième lieu' pour l'interaction sociale en dehors du travail et de la maison.

Sociological term 'third place'.

Her karaoke rendition of the classic ballad was so moving that it silenced the entire room.

Son interprétation au karaoké de la ballade classique était si émouvante qu'elle a fait taire toute la salle.

Result clause with 'so... that'.

The rise of 'carpool karaoke' highlights our innate desire to share musical experiences.

L'essor du 'karaoké en voiture' souligne notre désir inné de partager des expériences musicales.

Abstract noun 'desire' with an infinitive.

Karaoke has permeated global pop culture to the extent that it is now a universal social lubricant.

Le karaoké a imprégné la culture pop mondiale à tel point qu'il est désormais un lubrifiant social universel.

Complex sentence with 'to the extent that'.

The transition from analog to digital karaoke systems mirrors the broader shifts in media consumption.

La transition des systèmes de karaoké analogiques aux systèmes numériques reflète les changements plus larges dans la consommation des médias.

Parallel structure 'from... to'.

One might argue that karaoke is a form of postmodern art, built entirely on appropriation and performance.

On pourrait soutenir que le karaoké est une forme d'art postmoderne, entièrement construite sur l'appropriation et la performance.

Subjunctive mood 'one might argue'.

The psychological catharsis provided by a late-night karaoke session is a fascinating subject for study.

La catharsis psychologique procurée par une séance de karaoké tard dans la nuit est un sujet d'étude fascinant.

Passive participle phrase 'provided by'.

In some corporate cultures, karaoke is an indispensable tool for fostering egalitarianism among staff.

Dans certaines cultures d'entreprise, le karaoké est un outil indispensable pour favoriser l'égalitarisme au sein du personnel.

Adjective 'indispensable' with a gerund phrase.

The subtle distinction between a 'karaoke singer' and a 'vocalist' lies in the presence of original interpretation.

La distinction subtile entre un 'chanteur de karaoké' et un 'vocaliste' réside dans la présence d'une interprétation originale.

Noun phrase as a subject with a relative clause.

Karaoke's enduring popularity suggests that the human impulse to perform is stronger than the fear of ridicule.

La popularité durable du karaoké suggère que l'impulsion humaine de performer est plus forte que la peur du ridicule.

Comparative structure 'stronger than'.

The commercialization of karaoke has led to a plethora of niche markets, from high-end lounges to mobile apps.

La commercialisation du karaoké a conduit à une pléthore de marchés de niche, des salons haut de gamme aux applications mobiles.

Present perfect with 'led to'.

자주 쓰는 조합

sing karaoke

karaoke bar

karaoke machine

karaoke night

karaoke version

private karaoke room

karaoke track

karaoke party

do karaoke

karaoke contest

자주 쓰는 구문

karaoke star

karaoke king/queen

karaoke-style

go karaoke

karaoke classic

karaoke setup

karaoke lounge

karaoke duet

karaoke app

karaoke enthusiast

자주 혼동되는 단어

karaoke vs lip-sync

Lip-syncing involves no actual singing, while karaoke requires the person to sing.

karaoke vs sing-along

A sing-along is usually a group activity, whereas karaoke is often a solo performance.

karaoke vs open mic

Open mic usually involves live instruments and original songs, unlike karaoke's backing tracks.

관용어 및 표현

"sing your heart out"

To sing with great passion and energy, often at karaoke.

She sang her heart out at the karaoke bar.

informal

"steal the show"

To be the most impressive performer in a group.

His karaoke performance really stole the show.

neutral

"break the ice"

To do something to make people feel more relaxed in a social setting.

Karaoke is a great way to break the ice.

neutral

"face the music"

To accept the consequences of your actions (often used jokingly after a bad performance).

After that terrible singing, I had to face the music.

informal

"hit the high notes"

To reach the difficult parts of a song successfully.

He struggled to hit the high notes during karaoke.

neutral

"off-key"

Singing the wrong notes; out of tune.

Most of the karaoke was a bit off-key but fun.

neutral

"take the stage"

To go up and begin a performance.

It was finally my turn to take the stage for karaoke.

neutral

"belt out"

To sing a song loudly and forcefully.

She belted out a power ballad at the party.

informal

"mic hog"

Someone who refuses to give up the microphone to others.

Don't be a mic hog; let someone else sing!

slang

"stage fright"

Nervousness before performing in front of an audience.

I had stage fright, so I didn't do karaoke.

neutral

혼동하기 쉬운

karaoke vs videoke

It is a similar term used in the Philippines.

Videoke usually refers to the machine itself or the specific Philippine style of karaoke.

They have a videoke machine in their backyard.

karaoke vs KTV

It is the common term in China and Taiwan.

KTV stands for Karaoke Television and specifically refers to private room venues.

We spent five hours at the KTV.

karaoke vs noraebang

It is the Korean term for karaoke.

It literally means 'singing room' and refers to the private room culture in Korea.

Noraebangs are everywhere in Seoul.

karaoke vs playback

It refers to recorded music.

Playback is a general term, while karaoke is a specific activity using playback.

The singer used a playback track during the concert.

karaoke vs acapella

It involves singing.

Acapella is singing without any instrumental music, which is the opposite of karaoke.

The choir sang the song acapella.

문장 패턴

I like [noun].

I like karaoke.

Let's go to [place].

Let's go to a karaoke bar.

I enjoy [gerund] because [reason].

I enjoy singing karaoke because it makes me happy.

It was so [adj] that [result].

The karaoke was so loud that I couldn't hear my friends.

Despite [noun], [clause].

Despite my shyness, I decided to sing karaoke.

[Noun] serves as [noun].

Karaoke serves as a social bridge between cultures.

The [noun] of [noun] mirrors [noun].

The evolution of karaoke mirrors the rise of digital media.

One might argue that [clause].

One might argue that karaoke is the ultimate form of amateur art.

어휘 가족

명사

동사

형용사

사용법

frequency

Very common in social and entertainment contexts.

자주 하는 실수

I am playing karaoke. → I am singing karaoke.
You 'play' a musical instrument, but you 'sing' karaoke.
Let's go to a karaoke. → Let's go to a karaoke bar.
'Karaoke' is the activity; you need to add 'bar' or 'club' to describe the place.
He is a good karaoke. → He is good at karaoke.
You cannot be 'a karaoke'; you are 'good at' the activity.
I sang five karaokes. → I sang five karaoke songs.
Karaoke is uncountable when referring to the activity. Use 'songs' to count them.
The music was karaoke. → The music was a karaoke track.
Use 'track' or 'version' to describe the specific recording.

팁

The English 'Key'

Remember that in English, the last syllable sounds like the word 'key.' This is the easiest way to sound like a native speaker when saying 'karaoke.'

Be a Good Audience

Even if someone is a terrible singer, always clap and cheer. Karaoke is about social harmony and having a good time together, not judging talent.

Practice Lyrics

Use karaoke apps to practice the lyrics of your favorite English songs. It's a fun way to improve your reading speed and vocabulary retention.

Empty Orchestra

Remembering the meaning 'empty orchestra' can help you remember that karaoke always involves a backing track without the main voice.

Noun or Adjective?

Notice how 'karaoke' can describe a place (karaoke bar), a thing (karaoke machine), or the activity itself. This versatility is common for many hobby-related words.

Signature Song

Learn the phrase 'signature song.' This is the one song you are best at and always choose to sing when you go to karaoke.

Asian Context

If you are in Asia, look for signs that say 'KTV' or 'Noraebang.' These are the local words for karaoke and will help you find the best spots.

Mic Technique

When singing, hold the microphone close to your mouth but not touching it. This ensures the karaoke machine picks up your voice clearly over the music.

Duets are Easier

If you are nervous, ask a friend to sing a duet with you. It's much less intimidating than standing on the karaoke stage alone!

Check the 'A's

There are two 'a's in karaoke. K-A-R-A-O-K-E. Think of the word 'karate' which also starts with 'kara' to help you remember the first part.

암기하기

기억법

Think of a 'Kara' (a girl's name) who is 'OK' at singing. Kara-OK-e. She's not great, she's just OK, which is perfect for karaoke!

시각적 연상

Imagine a TV screen with big blue letters and a bouncing yellow ball jumping over the words as a person holds a shiny silver microphone.

Word Web

Music Singing Microphone Lyrics Screen Bar Party Japan

챌린지

Try to find a karaoke version of your favorite English song on YouTube and sing it all the way through without stopping.

어원

The word 'karaoke' comes from the Japanese language, specifically from two shortened words: 'kara' and 'oke'. It was coined in the 1970s as the technology became popular in Japanese bars.

원래 의미: 'Kara' means 'empty' and 'oke' is short for 'okesutora', which means 'orchestra'. Thus, it literally means 'empty orchestra'.

Japanese (Japonic language family).

문화적 맥락

While karaoke is for everyone, be mindful that in some cultures, taking it too seriously or being 'too good' can sometimes be seen as against the spirit of amateur fun. Always encourage others and never mock a bad singer.

In the UK and US, karaoke is often seen as a fun, slightly embarrassing activity done after a few drinks. It is very popular for birthday parties and office events.

The 'Carpool Karaoke' segment on The Late Late Show with James Corden. The movie 'Lost in Translation' featuring Bill Murray singing karaoke in Tokyo. The 'Karaoke' episode of the TV show 'Glee'.

실생활에서 연습하기

실제 사용 상황

At a bar

What's on the karaoke list?
Is it my turn yet?
Do you want to sing a duet?
I'm too nervous to go up.

Planning a party

Should we rent a karaoke machine?
I'll make a karaoke playlist.
Does anyone have a microphone?
The theme is karaoke.

Talking about hobbies

I go to karaoke every weekend.
My signature song is 'Bohemian Rhapsody'.
I'm not a good singer, but I love karaoke.
I have a karaoke app on my phone.

In a music store

Do you sell karaoke systems?
Where are the karaoke CDs?
I need a microphone for my karaoke setup.
Is this compatible with karaoke software?

Traveling in Asia

Where is the nearest KTV?
How much is a private karaoke room?
Do you have English songs?
Let's go to a noraebang.

대화 시작하기

"What is your absolute favorite song to sing at karaoke?"

"Do you prefer singing karaoke in a private room or on a stage in front of people?"

"Have you ever had a really embarrassing or funny experience while doing karaoke?"

"If you had to pick a karaoke duet partner, who would it be and what song would you sing?"

"Do you think karaoke is a good way to practice learning a new language?"

일기 주제

Describe the first time you ever sang karaoke. How did you feel before, during, and after the performance?

Write about why you think karaoke is so popular all around the world. What human need does it satisfy?

If you were to host the perfect karaoke party, what would it look like? Describe the music, the food, and the guests.

Do you believe that anyone can enjoy karaoke, or do you need to be a good singer to have fun? Explain your view.

How has technology changed the way people experience karaoke compared to thirty years ago?

자주 묻는 질문

10 질문

The word karaoke is a Japanese portmanteau. 'Kara' comes from 'karappo' meaning empty, and 'oke' is short for 'okesutora' meaning orchestra. So, it literally means 'empty orchestra.' This refers to the music playing without a lead singer.

Yes, karaoke originated in Japan in the early 1970s. It was created to allow people to sing along to popular songs in bars without needing a live band. It has since become a global phenomenon.

In English, the most common pronunciation is 'carry-OH-key' (/ˌkæriˈoʊki/). This is different from the original Japanese pronunciation, which is 'kah-rah-oh-keh.' In English-speaking countries, the Anglicized version is standard.

Informally, yes. You might hear someone say, 'Let's karaoke tonight!' However, in more formal or standard English, it is better to use it as a noun with a verb like 'sing' or 'do,' as in 'Let's sing karaoke.'

A karaoke bar usually has a central stage where people sing in front of the whole room. KTV (common in Asia) refers to private rooms that you rent with a group of friends so you only sing in front of people you know.

A karaoke version is a recording of a song that has the lead vocals removed. It usually still includes the instruments and sometimes the background singers, allowing you to sing the main part yourself.

Absolutely! Singing karaoke helps with pronunciation, rhythm, and learning new vocabulary. Because the lyrics are displayed on the screen in sync with the music, it reinforces the connection between written and spoken words.

Not at all! The spirit of karaoke is about having fun and participating, not about being a professional. In fact, some of the most popular karaoke performances are the ones that are funny or enthusiastic rather than perfect.

Classic karaoke songs include 'I Will Survive' by Gloria Gaynor, 'Don't Stop Believin'' by Journey, and 'Bohemian Rhapsody' by Queen. These are songs that many people know and can sing along to.

At minimum, you need a way to play the music (like a phone or computer), a screen to see the lyrics, and a microphone. Many people buy all-in-one karaoke machines that include speakers and lights for a better experience.