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A2 noun #100 가장 일반적인 10분 분량

～中

-chuu 상위 100

연습하기 예시 노트와 팁 ～中 30초 만에

설명 ～中 in your Level:

At the A1 level, you will mostly see '～中' in very simple, common words. The most important ones to learn are '仕事中' (shigoto-chū, at work) and '勉強中' (benkyō-chū, studying). You might see these on signs or use them to explain why you can't talk. At this stage, just think of it as a way to say 'I am doing [noun] right now.' You don't need to worry about complex grammar. Just remember: Noun + 中 = 'In the middle of [Noun].' It's a very useful shortcut for beginners because you don't have to conjugate verbs to the '~te iru' form yet. If someone asks 'What are you doing?', you can just say 'Benkyō-chū!' and they will understand perfectly. Also, you might see '営業中' (eigyō-chū) on shop doors, which means the shop is open. This is a great way to start reading kanji in the real world.

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At the A2 level, you start to learn the second reading: 'jū'. This is used for time and space. You will learn '一日中' (ichinichijū, all day) and '世界中' (sekaijū, all over the world). The key difference is that 'chū' is for actions, and 'jū' is for total duration or area. You will also start using '～中' with particles, like '授業中に' (jugyō-chū ni, during class). This allows you to say things like 'I fell asleep during class.' You are moving from simple labels to building more descriptive sentences. You should also be able to recognize '工事中' (kōjichū, under construction) and other common public signs. This level is about expanding the types of nouns you can attach '～中' to and understanding which reading to use based on the noun's category.

By B1, you should be comfortable with '～中' in a variety of contexts, including business and abstract situations. You will encounter words like '外出中' (gaishutsuchū, out of the office) and '話し中' (hanashichū, line busy). You will also see it used in more complex sentence structures, such as '～中である' in written Japanese, which is a formal way of saying 'is currently...'. You'll start to notice the difference between '～中' and other similar expressions like '～ているところ' or '～の間'. For example, '～中' is often used for a state that lasts for a while, whereas '～ところ' is the exact moment. You should also be able to use '～中' to describe ongoing social or economic trends, like '不況中' (fukyō-chū, during a recession), although other terms might be more common for those specific cases.

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At the B2 level, you will see '～中' used in formal reports, news, and academic writing. It often appears in compounds like '審議中' (shingichū, under deliberation) or '開発中' (kaihatsuchū, under development). You will need to understand the nuance it brings to professional communication—it sounds objective and efficient. You will also encounter more idiomatic uses and less common 'jū' readings, such as '十中八九' (jutchū-hakkyū, eight or nine times out of ten / in all likelihood). At this stage, you should be able to switch between '～中' and more formal alternatives like '～に際して' or '～の最中に' depending on the required register. You will also notice '～中' being used with abstract concepts like '思案中' (shian-chū, lost in thought).

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At the C1 level, you are expected to master the subtle nuances of '～中' in literature and high-level discourse. You will see it used to create sophisticated imagery or to describe complex states of being. For example, '沈黙中' (chinmokuchū, in the midst of silence) or '混迷中' (konmeichū, in a state of confusion). You will also be sensitive to the rhythmic qualities of using '～中' in writing to create a sense of ongoing action without the wordiness of full verbal phrases. You'll understand its use in historical contexts or specific technical fields. Your ability to use '～中' will be seamless, choosing it instinctively over other forms to achieve a specific tone or emphasis. You will also be familiar with rare or archaic compounds that use this kanji.

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At the C2 level, your understanding of '～中' is near-native. You can appreciate its role in the evolution of the Japanese language and its use in classical or highly stylized modern literature. You understand how '～中' can be used to condense complex philosophical ideas into single compounds. You are also aware of the most obscure readings and uses, including those found in legal texts or ancient documents. You can use '～中' with total precision in any register, from the most casual slang to the most formal diplomatic language. You might even use it creatively in poetry or wordplay, fully aware of the historical and cultural weight the character carries. At this level, '～中' is not just a grammar point but a versatile tool for nuanced expression.

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연습하기 예시 노트와 팁

～中 30초 만에

A suffix used to indicate an ongoing action or state.
Pronounced 'chū' for activities (e.g., in a meeting).
Pronounced 'jū' for duration or space (e.g., all day, all over).
Commonly used on signs, in business, and in daily status updates.

The Japanese suffix ～中 is a versatile and essential component of the Japanese language, primarily used to indicate that an action is currently in progress or that a state exists throughout a specific period or space. Depending on its pronunciation—either chū or jū—the nuance shifts significantly, making it a critical point of study for learners transitioning from basic to intermediate proficiency. When pronounced as chū, it typically attaches to Sino-Japanese nouns (suru-verbs) to mean 'in the middle of' or 'currently doing.' For example, 仕事中 (shigoto-chū) means 'at work' or 'in the middle of working.' This usage is ubiquitous in professional settings, signage, and daily status updates. It functions similarly to the English present continuous tense but is condensed into a single noun-suffix compound. On the other hand, when pronounced as jū, it conveys the meaning of 'throughout' or 'all across.' This is commonly seen with time expressions like 一日中 (ichinichijū), meaning 'all day long,' or spatial expressions like 世界中 (sekaijū), meaning 'all over the world.'

Temporal Progress (chū): Used to indicate that a specific activity is currently occurring. It is often found on signs to inform the public of ongoing states, such as 'Under Construction' or 'In Use.'
Total Duration (jū): Used with time nouns to show that something happens without interruption during that entire period. It emphasizes the length and continuity of the action.
Spatial Coverage (jū): Used with location nouns to indicate that something applies to the entire area defined by the noun, such as a whole country or the whole world.

すみません、今、会議中ですので、後でかけ直します。(Sumimasen, ima, kaigichū desu node, ato de kakenaoshimasu.)
— Translation: Sorry, I am in the middle of a meeting right now, so I will call you back later.

Understanding the context is key to choosing the right reading. Generally, if the noun is an action (like 'study' or 'meeting'), it is chū. If the noun is a span of time or a place (like 'day', 'year', or 'room'), it is jū. This distinction is vital because mispronouncing it can lead to confusion, although context usually clarifies the speaker's intent. In Japanese culture, where politeness and efficiency are valued, using chū allows for concise communication. For instance, putting a sign that says 準備中 (junbi-chū) on a restaurant door immediately tells customers that the staff is 'in the middle of preparations' and the shop is not yet open. This brevity is a hallmark of Japanese business and public communication.

彼は一日中ゲームをしています。(Kare wa ichinichijū gēmu o shite imasu.)
— Translation: He plays games all day long.

In summary, ～中 is a high-frequency suffix that every Japanese learner must master. It bridges the gap between simple nouns and complex verbal phrases, allowing you to describe ongoing actions and total durations with ease. Whether you are looking at a 'Closed' sign, explaining why you can't talk on the phone, or describing a year-long journey, this character will be your constant companion in Japanese communication.

Using ～中 correctly involves understanding its grammatical placement and the specific nouns it can attach to. Grammatically, it functions as a suffix that transforms a noun into a state or a temporal adverb. It is attached directly to the end of the noun without any intervening particles. This simplicity is one of its greatest strengths, but it also requires learners to memorize which nouns are compatible with it.

Noun + 中 (chū): Used with action-oriented nouns (often suru-verb stems). Examples: benkyō-chū (studying), shokuji-chū (eating), denwa-chū (on the phone).
Noun + 中 (jū): Used with time or place nouns. Examples: ichinichijū (all day), ichinenjū (all year), nihonjū (all over Japan).

今、食事中ですから、テレビを消してください。(Ima, shokujichū desu kara, terebi o keshite kudasai.)
— Translation: Since we are in the middle of a meal now, please turn off the TV.

When using chū to describe an ongoing action, it often replaces the ~te iru form for brevity, especially in formal or written contexts. For example, instead of saying 'ima benkyō shite imasu,' one might say 'ima benkyō-chū desu.' This sounds slightly more objective or professional. In business emails, you might see gaishutsu-chū (out of the office) or shutchō-chū (on a business trip). These compounds are treated as na-adjectives or nouns depending on the sentence structure, often followed by desu or da.

授業中に寝てはいけません。(Jugyōchū ni nete wa ikemasen.)
— Translation: You must not sleep during class.

For the jū reading, it's important to note that it implies the entire scope. Ichinichijū isn't just 'during the day'; it is 'the whole day from start to finish.' This is why it is often used with verbs that describe continuous states or repetitive actions. If you say 'I studied all day,' ichinichijū benkyō shimashita is perfect. If you say 'I saw him during the day,' you would use hiruma ni instead. This distinction helps you express the intensity or scale of an event accurately.

この町は一年中観光客が多いです。(Kono machi wa ichinenjū kankōkyaku ga ooi desu.)
— Translation: This town has many tourists all year round.

Finally, consider the register. While ~chū is common in speech, it is extremely common in formal writing, news reports, and official documentation. It provides a way to categorize the status of a person or object succinctly. Mastering this suffix allows you to read signs, understand workplace status boards, and sound more natural in your daily Japanese interactions.

The suffix ～中 is one of those Japanese elements that you will see and hear everywhere, from the moment you step off a plane in Tokyo to the casual conversations you have with friends. Its presence is particularly strong in public spaces, the workplace, and digital communications. Understanding these contexts will help you recognize the word instantly in real-world situations.

Public Signage and Announcements: You will see 工事中 (kōjichū - under construction) on road signs, 清掃中 (seisōchū - cleaning in progress) in restrooms, and 営業中 (eigyōchū - open for business) on shop doors.
The Modern Workplace: In Japanese offices, status boards often use 外出中 (gaishutsuchū - out), 会議中 (kaigichū - in a meeting), or 休憩中 (kyūkeichū - on break) to show where employees are.
Digital and Phone Etiquette: When you call someone and they can't talk, they might send a quick text saying 運転中 (untenchū - driving) or 授業中 (jugyōchū - in class).

ただいま、営業時間外ですが、準備中の札が出ています。(Tadaima, eigyō jikangai desu ga, junbi-chū no fuda ga dete imasu.)
— Translation: It's currently outside business hours, but the 'Preparing' sign is out.

In media, news anchors frequently use ~chū to report on developing stories. You might hear 調査中 (chōsachū - under investigation) or 放送中 (hōsōchū - currently broadcasting). This usage adds a level of professional detachment and precision to the reporting. Similarly, in sports, you'll hear 試合中 (shiaichū - during the match) or 練習中 (renshūchū - during practice).

彼は世界中を旅しています。(Kare wa sekaijū o tabi shite imasu.)
— Translation: He is traveling all over the world.

Even in anime and manga, characters will use ~chū to describe their current state of mind or activity. A character might shout 修行中だ！ (Shugyō-chū da! - I'm in the middle of training!) to explain their absence. This suffix is deeply embedded in the rhythm of Japanese life, serving as a linguistic shorthand for the various states of being and doing that define our daily existence. By paying attention to these contexts, you will not only learn the word but also the cultural nuances of when and why it is used.

While ～中 is relatively straightforward, learners often encounter a few common pitfalls. These usually involve the reading (chū vs jū), the grammatical structure (using 'no'), or confusing it with similar-sounding words. Identifying these early will save you from developing bad habits.

Mistake 1: Using 'No': Learners often say 仕事の中 (shigoto no naka) when they mean 'at work.' Correct: 仕事中 (shigoto-chū). 'Naka' refers to physical interior space, not the state of an activity.
Mistake 2: Chū vs Jū Confusion: Saying 一日中 (ichinichichū) instead of ichinichijū. Remember: 'jū' is for 'throughout' (time/space), while 'chū' is for 'in the middle of' (action).
Mistake 3: Misapplying to Verbs: You cannot attach ~chū directly to a verb dictionary form. You must use the noun form (often the suru-verb stem). 食べる中 (taberu chū) is wrong; 食事中 (shokuji-chū) is correct.

❌ 私は勉強の中です。
✅ 私は勉強中です。
— Tip: Don't use 'no' when expressing 'in the middle of an activity'.

Another subtle mistake is using ~chū with nouns that don't imply an action. For example, you wouldn't say ringo-chū (in the middle of an apple). It must be an activity like shokuji (meal/eating). Also, be careful with the word naka. If you say hako no naka, you mean 'inside the box.' If you say kaigichū, you mean 'in a meeting.' Mixing these up can lead to very strange sentences!

❌ 一週間中雨でした。(Isshūkan-chū...)
✅ 一週間ずっと雨でした。 (Or isshūkan-jū...)
— Note: While 'jū' works for 'all week', 'zutto' is often more natural for weather.

Lastly, remember that ~chū is often used for temporary states. If something is a permanent condition, ~chū might not be the best fit. For example, you wouldn't say someone is 'in the middle of being a student' using gakusei-chū; you would just say gakusei desu. Use ~chū for things that have a clear beginning and end, like a task, a meeting, or a specific time period.

Japanese has several ways to express 'during' or 'while,' and choosing the right one depends on the grammar and the specific nuance you want to convey. ～中 is just one tool in your kit. Let's look at how it compares to aida, uchi ni, and nagara.

～中 (chū) vs. 間 (aida): Chū focuses on the state of being in progress. Aida focuses on the time interval between two points. Use aida when you want to say 'while X was happening, Y happened.'
～中 (chū) vs. うちに (uchi ni): Uchi ni implies 'while the current state lasts (before it changes).' Chū is more neutral and just describes the current state.
～中 (chū) vs. ～ながら (nagara): Nagara is used for two simultaneous actions performed by the same person (e.g., eating while walking). Chū is a state of being (e.g., I am in the middle of eating).

食事中に電話が鳴った。(Shokujichū ni denwa ga natta.)
— vs. 食べている間に (Tabete iru aida ni) — Both are similar, but 'chū' is more concise.

Another alternative is ~te iru tokoro. This is very similar to ~chū but is used with verbs and emphasizes the exact moment of the action. If someone catches you right as you are about to eat, you'd say ima taberu tokoro desu. If you are already eating, shokujichū desu is more common for status, while tabete iru tokoro desu is more common for description.

テレビを見ながらご飯を食べる。(Terebi o minagara gohan o taberu.)
— Translation: Eat a meal while watching TV. (Simultaneous actions)

In formal documents, you might also see ~sai (at the time of) or ~ni saishite (on the occasion of). These are much more formal than ~chū and are usually reserved for ceremonies or official procedures. For the A2-B1 learner, focusing on the difference between chū and aida is the most productive path forward. By understanding these subtle differences, you can choose the word that best fits the situation and sound more like a native speaker.

How Formal Is It?

재미있는 사실

The kanji for 'China' (中国) literally means 'Middle Kingdom,' reflecting the historical view of China as the center of the world.

발음 가이드

UK tʃuː / dʒuː

US tʃu / dʒu

The stress is usually even, but the vowel 'u' is long (indicated by the macron).

라임이 맞는 단어

Jū (Ten) Kyū (Nine) Ryū (Dragon) Shū (Week) Kyū (Sudden) Gyū (Beef) Nyū (Milk) Hyū (Whistle)

자주 하는 실수

Pronouncing 'chū' as 'chu' (short vowel).
Confusing 'chū' and 'jū' readings.
Pronouncing 'jū' as 'zu'.
Applying the 'naka' reading to suffixes.
Failing to elongate the 'u' sound.

난이도

독해 2/5

The kanji is simple, but remembering the two readings (chū vs jū) takes practice.

쓰기 1/5

The kanji 中 is one of the first taught and very easy to write.

말하기 3/5

Choosing the right reading and avoiding 'no' requires conscious effort.

듣기 2/5

Usually clear from context, but 'chū' and 'jū' can sound similar in fast speech.

다음에 무엇을 배울까

선수 학습

中 (Inside) 仕事勉強一日世界

다음에 배울 것

～の間 (aida) ～うちに (uchi ni) ～ながら (nagara) 最中 (saichū)

고급

審議中執筆中模索中十中八九

알아야 할 문법

Noun + 中 (chū) for action nouns.

勉強中、仕事中、電話中

Noun + 中 (jū) for time/space nouns.

一日中、世界中、一年中

No 'no' particle between noun and suffix.

× 仕事の中 ○ 仕事中

Use 'ni' for events during the state.

授業中に地震があった。

Can modify nouns with 'no'.

工事中の道路

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수준별 예문

今、仕事中（しごとちゅう）です。

I am at work now.

Noun + chū indicates an ongoing action.

田中さんは勉強中（べんきょうちゅう）です。

Mr. Tanaka is studying.

Used to describe someone's current activity.

あ、営業中（えいぎょうちゅう）の看板（かんばん）があります。

Oh, there is an 'Open' sign.

Commonly seen on business signs.

電話中（でんわちゅう）ですから、静（しず）かにしてください。

I'm on the phone, so please be quiet.

Used to explain why one is unavailable.

食事中（しょくじちゅう）に話（はな）さないでください。

Please don't talk while eating.

Noun + chū + ni means 'during' the activity.

今、準備中（じゅんびちゅう）です。

We are currently preparing.

Often used for shops not yet ready to serve.

練習中（れんしゅうちゅう）にけがをしました。

I got injured during practice.

Indicates something happened during the period of practice.

会議中（かいぎちゅう）は携帯（けいたい）を使（つか）えません。

You cannot use mobile phones during the meeting.

Sets a rule for the duration of the meeting.

昨日（きのう）は一日中（いちにちじゅう）雨（あめ）でした。

It rained all day yesterday.

Time noun + jū means 'throughout'.

世界中（せかいじゅう）に友達（ともだち）がほしいです。

I want friends all over the world.

Place noun + jū means 'all over'.

一年中（いちねんじゅう）この島（しま）は暑（あつ）いです。

This island is hot all year round.

Indicates a constant state throughout the year.

授業中（じゅぎょうちゅう）に寝（ね）てしまいました。

I accidentally fell asleep during class.

Action noun + chū + ni.

日本中（にほんじゅう）を旅行（りょこう）したいです。

I want to travel all over Japan.

Spatial 'jū' usage.

今、工事中（こうじちゅう）で通（とお）れません。

It's under construction now, so you can't pass.

Common public notice.

彼女（かのじょ）は一晩中（ひとばんじゅう）泣（な）いていました。

She was crying all night long.

Emphasis on the entire night.

休み中（やすみちゅう）はずっと家にいました。

I was at home the whole time during the holiday.

Refers to the duration of the break.

社長（しゃちょう）はただいま外出中（がいしゅつちゅう）です。

The president is currently out of the office.

Formal business expression.

その事件（じけん）は現在（げんざい）調査中（ちょうさちゅう）です。

That incident is currently under investigation.

Used in news and official reports.

話し中（はなしちゅう）だったので、メールを送（おく）りました。

The line was busy, so I sent an email.

Specifically refers to being on a phone call.

彼（かれ）は今（いま）、考（かんが）え中（ちゅう）です。

He is currently thinking.

Can be used with abstract action nouns.

放送中（ほうそうちゅう）の番組（ばんぐみ）はとても人気（にんき）があります。

The program currently being broadcast is very popular.

Modifying a noun with a 'chū' compound.

このアプリは開発中（かいはつちゅう）のプロトタイプです。

This app is a prototype under development.

Indicates a project in progress.

旅行中（りょこうちゅう）に財布（さいふ）を盗（ぬす）まれました。

I had my wallet stolen while I was traveling.

Passive voice combined with 'chū ni'.

学校中（がっこうじゅう）にその噂（うわさ）が広（ひろ）まりました。

That rumor spread throughout the whole school.

Spatial 'jū' applied to a building/institution.

新（あたら）しい法案（ほうあん）は現在（げんざい）審議中（しんぎちゅう）です。

The new bill is currently under deliberation.

Formal political/legal context.

十中八九（じっちゅうはっく）、彼（かれ）が勝（か）つだろう。

In all likelihood, he will win.

Idiomatic expression meaning '8 or 9 out of 10'.

その計画（けいかく）は実行中（じっこうちゅう）の段階（だんかい）にあります。

The plan is in the implementation stage.

Describing a phase of a process.

町中（まちじゅう）が祭（まつ）りの雰囲気（ふんいき）に包（つつ）まれています。

The whole town is wrapped in a festival atmosphere.

Spatial 'jū' with an emotional/atmospheric context.

彼は思案中（しあんちゅう）で、誰（だれ）の言葉（ことば）も耳（みみ）に入（はい）らない。

He is deep in thought and doesn't hear anyone's words.

Literary/formal word for 'thinking'.

使用中（しようちゅう）の器具（きぐ）には触（ふ）れないでください。

Please do not touch the equipment currently in use.

Safety instruction.

彼（かれ）の行方（ゆくえ）は依然（いぜん）として捜索中（そうさくちゅう）です。

His whereabouts are still under search.

Used in police or emergency contexts.

年中無休（ねんじゅうむきゅう）で営業（えいぎょう）しております。

We are open all year round without holidays.

Common business compound.

プロジェクトは混迷（こんめい）を極（きわ）め、現在（げんざい）調整中（ちょうせいちゅう）だ。

The project is extremely chaotic and currently undergoing adjustment.

High-level business/management context.

その作家（さっか）は新作（しんさく）を執筆中（しっぴつちゅう）である。

The author is currently writing a new work.

Specific term for writing professionally.

宇宙（うちゅう）の謎（なぞ）は、今（いま）もなお解明中（かいめいちゅう）である。

The mysteries of the universe are still being unraveled.

Academic/scientific context.

彼女（かのじょ）は喪中（もちゅう）につき、年始（ねんし）の挨拶（あいさつ）を控（ひか）えた。

As she was in mourning, she refrained from New Year's greetings.

Cultural term for the period after a death.

身辺（しんぺん）を整理中（せいりちゅう）のため、しばらく連絡（れんらく）が取（と）れません。

I am currently organizing my personal affairs, so I won't be reachable for a while.

Vague but formal way to describe personal transitions.

犯人（はんにんにん）は逃走中（とうそうちゅう）であり、警戒（けいかい）が必要（ひつよう）だ。

The criminal is on the run, and caution is necessary.

Standard phrase in crime reporting.

日本（にほん）は高度経済成長（こうどけいざいせいちょう）の真（ま）っ只中（ただなか）にあった。

Japan was in the very midst of high economic growth.

Using 'tadanaka' for 'in the very middle of'.

その寺院（じいん）は改修中（かいしゅうしゅう）で、中（なか）に入（はい）ることはできなかった。

The temple was under renovation, so we couldn't go inside.

Formal term for renovation.

万物流転（ばんぶつるてん）の理（ことわり）の中（なか）に、我々（われわれ）は生（い）きている。

We live within the principle that all things are in flux.

Philosophical use of 'naka' as a conceptual space.

混迷（こんめい）を深（ふか）める政局（せいきょく）は、依然（いぜん）として出口（でぐち）を模索中（もさくちゅう）だ。

The political situation, deepening in confusion, is still searching for a way out.

Metaphorical use in high-level political analysis.

伝統（でんとう）と革新（かくしん）が相克（そうこく）する中（なか）、新（あたら）しい文化（ぶんか）が芽生（めば）える。

Amidst the conflict between tradition and innovation, a new culture sprouts.

Describing a complex social dynamic.

彼（かれ）の理論（りろん）は、学会（がっかい）において現在（げんざい）も検証中（けんしょうちゅう）である。

His theory is still undergoing verification within the academic community.

Formal academic verification process.

絶滅（ぜつめつ）の危機（きき）に瀕（ひん）する中（なか）、保護活動（ほごかつどう）が急（いそ）がれている。

In the midst of facing the danger of extinction, conservation efforts are being rushed.

Describing a critical situation.

激動（げきどう）の時代（じだい）を生き抜（ぬ）く中（なか）で、彼（かれ）は強（つよ）さを身（み）につけた。

Through living in a turbulent era, he acquired strength.

Using 'naka de' to show personal growth through a period.

その古文書（こもんじょ）は、専門家（せんもんか）によって解読中（かいどくちゅう）だ。

The ancient document is currently being deciphered by experts.

Technical term for deciphering.

深淵（しんえん）をのぞく時（とき）、深淵（しんえん）もまたこちらをのぞいているのだという言葉（ことば）を反芻中（はんすうちゅう）だ。

I am currently ruminating on the words: 'When you look into the abyss, the abyss also looks into you.'

Ruminating (hansū-chū) on a philosophical quote.

자주 쓰는 조합

仕事中

一日中

世界中

会議中

勉強中

食事中

準備中

営業中

工事中

一年中

자주 쓰는 구문

お話し中

— The phone line is busy. Used by automated operators.

お話し中ですので、後ほどおかけ直しください。

外出中

— Currently out of the office or home.

父は今、外出中です。

休暇中

— On vacation or holiday.

彼は現在、休暇中です。

放送中

— Currently on air or being broadcast.

この番組は生放送中だ。

発売中

— Currently on sale.

新製品は絶賛発売中だ。

募集中

— Currently recruiting or seeking.

アルバイト募集中です。

連載中

— Currently being serialized (in a magazine).

この漫画は雑誌で連載中だ。

展示中

— Currently on display.

有名な絵画が展示中だ。

修理中

— Under repair.

エレベーターは修理中だ。

検討中

— Under consideration.

その案は現在検討中だ。

자주 혼동되는 단어

～中 vs 中 (naka)

Means 'inside' a physical space. Requires the particle 'no'.

～中 vs 最中 (saichū)

Emphasizes the 'peak' or 'exact middle' of an action.

～中 vs 間 (aida)

Refers to the time interval between two points.

관용어 및 표현

"十中八九"

— Eight or nine times out of ten; in all likelihood.

十中八九、彼は来ないだろう。

Neutral

"年中無休"

— Open every day of the year; no holidays.

あのコンビニは年中無休だ。

Business

"意中"

— In one's mind; one's heart's desire (often regarding a person).

意中の人がいる。

Literary

"眼中にない"

— Not even in one's sight; to care nothing for.

ライバルなんて眼中にない。

Informal

"胸中"

— In one's heart; one's inner feelings.

複雑な胸中を明かす。

Formal

"渦中"

— In the whirlpool; in the middle of a controversy or trouble.

事件の渦中にいる。

Formal

"喪中"

— In mourning (period after a relative's death).

今年は喪中なので年賀状は出しません。

Cultural

"脳中"

— In one's brain/mind.

脳中に刻み込む。

Formal

"腹中"

— In one's belly; one's true intentions.

腹中を探り合う。

Idiomatic

"心中"

— Double suicide; also 'in one's heart'.

心中お察しします (I sympathize with your feelings).

Formal/Specific

혼동하기 쉬운

～中 vs 中 (naka)

Same kanji, different reading and meaning.

'Naka' is for physical interior (box, room). 'Chū' is for states/actions.

箱の中 (hako no naka) vs. 仕事中 (shigoto-chū)

～中 vs 最中 (saichū)

Similar meaning 'in the middle of'.

'Saichū' is more emphatic and often used for interruptions.

食事の最中に電話が鳴った。

～中 vs 間 (aida)

Both mean 'during'.

'Aida' is a noun for a time span; 'chū' is a suffix for a state.

寝ている間に (aida ni) vs. 授業中に (jugyō-chū ni)

～中 vs うちに (uchi ni)

Both mean 'while'.

'Uchi ni' has a 'before things change' nuance.

若いうちに (while young) vs. 仕事中に (during work)

～中 vs ながら (nagara)

Both mean 'while'.

'Nagara' is for multitasking by one person.

食べながら歩く (walk while eating) vs. 食事中 (in the middle of a meal)

문장 패턴

今、[Noun]中（ちゅう）です。

今、仕事中です。

[Noun]中（ちゅう）に[Action]。

食事中にテレビを見ます。

[Time]中（じゅう）[Action]。

一日中勉強しました。

[Place]中（じゅう）に[Noun]がある。

世界中に友達がいます。

ただいま、[Noun]中（ちゅう）でございます。

ただいま、外出中でございます。

[Noun]中（ちゅう）の[Noun]。

放送中の番組

[Noun]は現在、[Noun]中（ちゅう）だ。

犯人は現在、逃走中だ。

[Noun]につき、[Action]を控える。

喪中につき、挨拶を控える。

어휘 가족

명사

中心 (Center)

中身 (Contents)

中立 (Neutrality)

동사

中断する (To interrupt)

中止する (To cancel)

형용사

中くらいの (Medium-sized)

中途半端な (Half-baked)

사용법

frequency

Extremely high in all domains of Japanese life.

자주 하는 실수

勉強の中 (benkyō no naka) → 勉強中 (benkyō-chū)
You don't need 'no' when using 'chū' as a suffix for 'during'.
一日中 (ichinichichū) → 一日中 (ichinichijū)
Time nouns take the 'jū' reading, not 'chū'.
食べる中 (taberu chū) → 食事中 (shokuji-chū)
'Chū' attaches to nouns, not verb dictionary forms.
世界中 (sekai-chū) → 世界中 (sekai-jū)
Place nouns take the 'jū' reading.
仕事中にある (shigoto-chū ni aru) → 仕事中だ (shigoto-chū da)
To say someone 'is' in the middle of work, use 'da' or 'desu', not 'ni aru'.

팁

No 'No' Particle

Remember that '～中' is a suffix. It sticks directly to the noun. Never say 'benkyō no chū'.

Long Vowels Matter

Make sure to stretch the 'u' sound. 'Chū' and 'jū' are long vowels. Shortening them changes the meaning.

Identify the Noun Type

If the noun is an activity, read it as 'chū'. If it's a time or place, read it as 'jū'.

Learn Suru-Verbs

Most 'chū' words come from suru-verbs. Learning those will help you use 'chū' more effectively.

Signage is Key

Pay attention to signs in Japan. '工事中', '準備中', and '営業中' are everywhere!

Polite Excuses

Use 'shigoto-chū' or 'kaigichū' as a quick, polite way to say you are busy.

Business Status

In business emails, 'gaishutsuchū' (out) and 'shutchōchū' (on a trip) are standard terms.

Context Clues

If you hear 'ichinichi...', expect 'jū'. If you hear 'shigoto...', expect 'chū'.

The Loading Bar

Visualize 'chū' as a loading bar for an action. It's not finished yet!

Total Area

Use 'jū' with 'sekai' or 'nihon' to talk about things happening everywhere in those places.

암기하기

기억법

Think of the line in the middle of the box in the kanji 中. It's 'in the middle' of an action (chū) or 'going through' a whole day (jū).

시각적 연상

Imagine a 'Loading' bar. That bar is 'chū' (in progress). Now imagine a calendar with every day circled. That is 'jū' (throughout).

Word Web

Inside Middle During Throughout Center In progress All over Status

챌린지

Try to label your current status using 'chū' every hour today (e.g., 'Lunch-chū', 'Study-chū').

어원

The kanji 中 (middle) is a pictograph of a line passing through the center of a circle or square, representing the concept of 'center' or 'middle'.

원래 의미: The center or middle of something.

Sino-Japanese (On-yomi).

문화적 맥락

Be careful with '喪中' (mochū), as it relates to death and mourning rituals.

In English, we use 'in', 'at', 'during', or 'all' (e.g., 'at work', 'all day'). Japanese condenses these into one suffix.

The anime 'Run for Money' (Tōsōchū) is a famous game show. The song 'Sekaijū no Dare yori mo Kitto'. Business signs like 'Eigyōchū'.

실생활에서 연습하기

실제 사용 상황

At a Shop

営業中ですか？
準備中の看板が出ています。
年中無休のお店です。
ただいま休憩中です。

At the Office

田中さんは会議中です。
外出中の札をかけます。
仕事中に電話をしないでください。
プロジェクトは進行中です。

On the Street

この先は工事中です。
パトカーが追跡中です。
世界中の料理が食べられます。
町中がお祭りです。

At School

授業中に寝ないでください。
試験中は静かにしてください。
休み中に宿題をします。
彼は勉強中です。

On the Phone

今、話し中です。
運転中なので後でかけます。
食事中なので失礼します。
ただいま留守中です。

대화 시작하기

"今、お仕事中（しごとちゅう）ですか？ (Are you at work right now?)"

"一日中（いちにちじゅう）何（なに）をしていましたか？ (What were you doing all day?)"

"世界中（せかいじゅう）でどこに一番（いちばん）行（い）きたいですか？ (Where in the whole world do you want to go most?)"

"授業中（じゅぎょうちゅう）に寝（ね）たことがありますか？ (Have you ever slept during class?)"

"今、何（なに）か勉強中（べんきょうちゅう）のことはありますか？ (Is there anything you are currently studying?)"

일기 주제

今日（きょう）、一日中（いちにちじゅう）感（かん）じていたことを書（か）いてください。 (Write about what you felt all day today.)

今（いま）、あなたが「～中（ちゅう）」の状態（じょうたい）にあることを３つ挙（あ）げてください。 (List three things you are currently 'in the middle of'.)

世界中（せかいじゅう）の人（ひと）に伝（つた）えたいメッセージは何（なん）ですか？ (What message do you want to tell people all over the world?)

仕事中（しごとちゅう）や勉強中（べんきょうちゅう）に一番（いちばん）困（こま）ることは何（なん）ですか？ (What is the most troublesome thing during work or study?)

一年中（いちねんじゅう）楽（たの）しめる趣味（しゅみ）について書（か）いてください。 (Write about a hobby you can enjoy all year round.)

자주 묻는 질문

10 질문

Use 'chū' for actions (studying, working) and 'jū' for time periods (day, year) or locations (world, country). Think of 'chū' as 'in progress' and 'jū' as 'throughout'.

No, it must be an action-oriented noun (like suru-verb stems) or a specific time/place noun. You can't say 'apple-chū'!

It is always 'shigoto-chū'. You do not use the particle 'no' when using it as a suffix for 'during'.

'Kaigichū' is a state (I am in a meeting). 'Kaigi no aida' is a time period (During the time the meeting was happening).

It is written as 中, which looks like a box with a line through the middle.

It is neutral and can be used in both formal and informal settings depending on what follows it (e.g., 'da' vs 'desu').

Not directly. You must use the noun form of the verb. For example, use 'shokuji' (meal) instead of 'taberu' (eat).

It means 'Open for Business'. You will see this on many shop doors in Japan.

No, it means 'all day long' (from morning to night).

It is pronounced 'nihon-jū' and means 'all over Japan'.

무료 가입하고 팁과 노트 보기