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B2 noun 10분 분량

경외심

gyeongoeisim

연습하기 예시 노트와 팁 경외심 30초 만에

설명 경외심 in your Level:

At the A1 level, '경외심' (Gyeong-oe-sim) is a very difficult word because it is abstract and formal. However, you can think of it as a 'very, very big respect.' Imagine you meet a king or see a giant mountain. You feel small, and you think, 'Wow, that is amazing and a little scary.' That feeling is '경외심.' Usually, A1 students use '좋아요' (good) or '멋있어요' (cool). But '경외심' is much stronger. It is a noun. You use it with '느껴요' (I feel). For example: '자연은 멋있어요. 나는 경외심을 느껴요.' (Nature is cool. I feel awe.) It is not a word for everyday things like pizza or shoes. It is for big things like the ocean or the stars. Don't worry if you can't use it yet; just remember it means 'Super Respect + A little Fear.'

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For A2 learners, '경외심' is a word you might see in stories or hear in serious movies. It is a noun that means 'awe.' It comes from two ideas: 'Respect' and 'Fear.' When you see something so great that you feel humble, you use this word. In A2, you are learning more about feelings. Instead of just saying 'I like it' (좋아해요), you can start to understand 'I respect it deeply' (경외심을 느껴요). You will often see it with the particle '~을/를' because it is an object. For example, '우리는 바다를 보고 경외심을 느꼈다' (We saw the sea and felt awe). It is a formal word, so you won't hear it in casual talk with friends. You will hear it when people talk about God, nature, or very famous heroes like Admiral Yi Sun-sin.

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At the B1 level, you should begin to distinguish between different types of respect. '존경' is the respect you have for a teacher or a hard worker. '경외심' is different because it includes a sense of being overwhelmed by power or greatness. This is 'reverence' or 'awe.' You should practice using it with the structure '~에 대한 경외심' (awe for/toward something). For example, '그는 대자연에 대한 경외심을 가지고 있다' (He has a sense of awe toward Mother Nature). You might also encounter the word '경외감,' which is almost the same. At this level, you can use '경외심' in writing to make your essays sound more sophisticated. Instead of saying something was 'impressive' (인상적이다), you can say it 'aroused awe' (경외심을 불러일으켰다).

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As a B2 learner, you are expected to understand the nuance of '경외심' as a blend of '敬' (respect) and '畏' (fear). This word is part of a high-register vocabulary used in literature, documentaries, and formal speeches. You should be able to use it with various verbs like '자아내다' (to evoke), '품다' (to harbor/hold), and '표하다' (to express). B2 students should also understand the cultural context: Koreans use this word to describe the 'sublime.' It is often used in discussions about environmental protection (respect for nature) or historical legacy. You should also be careful not to use it for trivial achievements. If a student gets a 100 on a test, you feel 'admiration' (감탄), not 'reverence' (경외심). Using '경외심' correctly shows that you understand the weight of Korean Hanja-based nouns.

At the C1 level, you should explore the philosophical and psychological depth of '경외심.' It is not just an emotion but a state of being that acknowledges the limits of human understanding. In C1 discourse, you might discuss how '경외심' differs from '공포' (terror) or '숭배' (worship). You should be comfortable using it in complex sentences: '인간은 우주의 무한함 앞에서 필연적으로 경외심을 느낄 수밖에 없는 존재이다' (Humans are beings who cannot help but feel awe in the face of the infinity of the universe). You should also recognize its use in classical literature and modern philosophical essays. At this level, you can also use related terms like '외경심' or '경외감' fluently, choosing the one that fits the rhythmic and stylistic needs of your sentence.

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For C2 learners, '경외심' is a tool for expressing the most profound human experiences. You should understand its etymological roots in Confucian and Buddhist traditions, where 'reverence' (敬) was a key virtue for self-cultivation. You can use '경외심' to analyze complex literary works or to engage in high-level debates about aesthetics and theology. At this level, you should be able to distinguish the subtle stylistic differences between '경외심을 자아내다,' '경외심에 사로잡히다' (to be seized by awe), and '경외심을 잃다' (to lose one's sense of awe/become hubristic). Your usage should reflect an intuitive grasp of when this word's gravity is required to elevate a piece of writing or a formal presentation to a professional or academic standard. You might also explore how the concept of '경외심' has evolved in modern Korean society compared to its traditional roots.

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경외심 30초 만에

경외심 means a deep sense of 'awe' or 'reverence,' combining intense respect with a humbling sense of fear or smallness.
It is a formal noun used for grand subjects like nature, the divine, or extraordinary human achievements and genius.
Commonly paired with verbs like '느끼다' (feel), '자아내다' (evoke), and '불러일으키다' (inspire/arouse) in formal contexts.
It differs from simple respect (존경) by adding a layer of being overwhelmed or intimidated by greatness.

The Korean noun 경외심 (Gyeong-oe-sim) is a profound and multi-layered term that translates most accurately to 'awe' or 'reverence' in English. However, to truly understand its weight, one must look at its Hanja roots: 敬 (Gyeong) meaning 'respect,' 畏 (Oe) meaning 'fear' or 'dread,' and 心 (Sim) meaning 'heart' or 'mind.' Together, they describe a state of mind where one feels a deep, overwhelming sense of respect mixed with a touch of fear or submission toward something vast, powerful, or sacred. This isn't the kind of fear you feel when facing danger; rather, it is the 'fear' of being in the presence of something so much greater than oneself that it inspires a sense of humility and wonder. In the Korean context, this word is frequently used when describing one's reaction to the grandeur of nature, the presence of a divine being, or the encounter with a person of extraordinary virtue or genius.

Core Nuance: A combination of intense admiration and a humbling realization of one's own smallness.
Emotional Spectrum: It sits between 존경 (respect) and 두려움 (fear), leaning heavily toward spiritual or intellectual wonder.

Imagine standing at the edge of the Grand Canyon or looking up at a night sky filled with millions of stars. That mixture of 'Wow, this is beautiful' and 'Wow, I am so small' is exactly what 경외심 captures. In Korean culture, which historically values hierarchy and the sublime, this word carries a heavy weight. It is rarely used for trivial things. You wouldn't feel 경외심 for a tasty meal or a nice car; you feel it for the vastness of the ocean, the complexity of the human brain, or the lifelong dedication of a saint-like figure. It is a word of high register, often found in literature, philosophy, and formal discourse.

거대한 빙하 앞에 선 탐험가는 자연에 대한 경외심으로 말을 잇지 못했다. (Standing before the massive glacier, the explorer was speechless with awe for nature.)

Furthermore, the term is often paired with the verb 느끼다 (to feel) or 자아내다 (to evoke/arouse). When an artist creates a masterpiece that transcends human capability, we say the work 'arouses awe' (경외심을 자아내다). This suggests that the feeling is not just something we choose to have, but something that is forced upon our psyche by the sheer magnitude of the object we are observing. It is an involuntary reaction to greatness. In modern Korean, while younger generations might use '대박' or '소름' for everyday surprises, 경외심 remains the gold standard for describing a truly transcendent experience.

Historically, this term was deeply rooted in religious and monarchical contexts. Subjects were expected to have 경외심 for the King, and believers for the Heavens. While the political context has changed, the psychological essence remains: it is the recognition of a power or beauty that exceeds human understanding. It is a sophisticated word that indicates the speaker possesses a level of emotional and intellectual maturity, as they are capable of recognizing and articulating the feeling of being overwhelmed by something positive yet intimidating.

그의 학문적 깊이는 동료들에게 깊은 경외심을 불러일으켰다. (The depth of his scholarship inspired deep reverence among his colleagues.)

Using 경외심 (Gyeong-oe-sim) correctly requires understanding its grammatical placement and its typical collocations. Since it is a noun, it most frequently appears as the object of a verb or as part of a descriptive phrase. The most common verb to follow it is 느끼다 (to feel). For example, "나는 우주의 광활함에 경외심을 느꼈다" (I felt awe at the vastness of the universe). Note the use of the particle ~에 (at/toward) or ~에 대한 (for/regarding) to indicate the source of the awe.

Common Verb Pairings: 경외심을 느끼다 (to feel awe), 경외심을 갖다 (to have/hold reverence), 경외심을 불러일으키다 (to arouse/inspire awe).

Another sophisticated way to use this word is with the verb 자아내다. This is often used when the subject is the object of beauty or power itself. For instance, "그 장엄한 풍경은 보는 이로 하여금 경외심을 자아냈다" (That majestic scenery evoked awe in those who saw it). Here, 자아내다 emphasizes the active role the scenery plays in pulling that emotion out of the viewer. This structure is very common in formal writing, such as travel essays, art critiques, and documentaries.

우리는 신의 섭리 앞에서 인간의 미약함을 깨닫고 경외심을 갖게 된다. (In the face of divine providence, we realize human frailty and come to have reverence.)

In more academic or formal contexts, you might see 경외심 used with 표하다 (to express). While you usually express respect (존경을 표하다), expressing 경외심 suggests a much deeper, almost spiritual level of tribute. It is also worth noting that 경외심 can be used in the negative to describe a lack of humility. A sentence like "그는 자연에 대한 경외심이 전혀 없다" (He has no awe for nature at all) implies that the person is arrogant or reckless, ignoring the power of the natural world.

When describing a person who inspires this feeling, you can use the phrase 경외심을 불러일으키는 (awe-inspiring). For example, "그는 경외심을 불러일으키는 지도자였다" (He was an awe-inspiring leader). This functions as an adjective phrase. It suggests that the leader's presence was so commanding and their character so profound that people felt a mix of intense respect and a healthy, respectful fear of their authority or wisdom. This is a very high compliment in Korean culture.

베토벤의 교향곡 9번은 들을 때마다 인간 정신의 위대함에 대한 경외심을 준다. (Beethoven's Symphony No. 9 gives a sense of awe for the greatness of the human spirit every time I hear it.)

While 경외심 (Gyeong-oe-sim) is not a word you would typically use while ordering coffee or chatting with friends about a movie, it is ubiquitous in specific high-level contexts. One of the most common places you will encounter it is in nature documentaries. When the narrator describes the vastness of the Sahara Desert, the depths of the Mariana Trench, or the violent power of a volcanic eruption, 경외심 is the go-to word to describe the intended reaction of the audience. It bridges the gap between seeing something beautiful and seeing something so powerful it could destroy you.

Context: Literature: Used to describe a protagonist's internal state when encountering the sublime or the divine.
Context: Science: Often used by scientists (like Carl Sagan in translation) to describe the feeling of studying the cosmos.

Another frequent setting is in religious or philosophical discourse. In Korean churches, temples, or in books about ethics, 경외심 is used to describe the appropriate attitude a human should have toward the Creator or the laws of the universe. It implies a lack of hubris. If you listen to a formal lecture on history or great figures like King Sejong or Admiral Yi Sun-sin, the speaker might mention that their achievements inspire 경외심. This elevates the subject from merely 'successful' to 'legendary' or 'transcendent.'

다큐멘터리 성우: "우리는 대자연의 거대함 앞에서 깊은 경외심을 느끼게 됩니다." (Documentary Narrator: "We come to feel deep awe before the vastness of Mother Nature.")

You will also find this word in news reports regarding monumental human achievements. For instance, when a space probe first landed on a comet, or when a groundbreaking medical cure is discovered, journalists might use 경외심 to describe the public's reaction to the boundary of human knowledge being pushed further. In K-Dramas, specifically those with historical (Sa-geuk) or medical themes, a younger character might express 경외심 for their mentor's skill or a king's commanding presence. It signals a turning point where the character realizes the true scale of the world they are in.

In artistic circles, 경외심 is used to describe the feeling of standing before a masterpiece. Whether it's the architecture of a cathedral or a massive sculpture, the word captures the physical and emotional response of being 'struck' by greatness. It is a word that demands silence and contemplation. If you are visiting a museum in Korea and want to express that a piece of art has truly moved you in a profound, almost scary way, using 경외심 would be much more impactful than simply saying it is 'beautiful' (예뻐요) or 'cool' (멋있어요).

전시회 도슨트: "이 작품은 인간의 고통과 희망을 동시에 담아내어 경외심을 자아냅니다." (Museum Docent: "This work captures human suffering and hope simultaneously, evoking awe.")

One of the most frequent mistakes learners make is confusing 경외심 (Gyeong-oe-sim) with simple 존경 (respect). While they are related, 존경 is a horizontal or slightly vertical feeling of admiration for someone's character or actions. You can 존경 your teacher or your parents. However, 경외심 involves a sense of being overwhelmed. You wouldn't usually say you feel 경외심 for your friend just because they are good at math. That would sound overly dramatic, as if your friend were a god-like entity. Use 존경 for people you admire, and reserve 경외심 for things that are truly monumental.

Mistake 1: Overuse: Using it for everyday impressive things (e.g., a good smartphone). Correct word: 감탄 (admiration).
Mistake 2: Confusing with Fear: Thinking it means 'scared' (공포). While it has a 'fear' component, it is a positive, respectful fear, not a desire to run away.

Another common error is failing to use the correct particles. Since 경외심 describes a feeling *toward* something, it should be paired with ~에 대한 or ~에. Some learners mistakenly use the subject particle ~이/가 in ways that sound unnatural. For instance, saying "경외심이 느껴요" is grammatically incorrect (it should be 경외심이 느껴진다 or 경외심을 느낀다). Understanding the active vs. passive nature of the feeling is key to sounding natural.

Incorrect: 나는 그 가수의 노래에 경외심을 해요. (I 'do' awe to that singer's song.)
Correct: 나는 그 가수의 실력에 경외심을 느껴요. (I feel awe at that singer's skill.)

Furthermore, learners often confuse 경외심 with 공포심 (fear). If you are watching a horror movie, you feel 공포심. If you are watching a massive storm from a safe distance and are moved by its sheer power, you might feel 경외심. The distinction lies in the 'respect' (敬) component. If there is no element of respect or admiration, it is not 경외심. It's just being scared. Using 경외심 for a scary monster would be incorrect unless that monster has a majestic or divine quality.

Lastly, avoid using it in very casual settings. If you say "이 떡볶이 맛에 경외심을 느껴요" (I feel awe at the taste of this tteokbokki), it will be taken as a joke or extreme sarcasm. It's like saying "I feel a profound sense of spiritual reverence for this spicy rice cake" in English. For food or entertainment, stick to 감탄 (admiration), 놀라움 (surprise/wonder), or 훌륭함 (excellence).

잘못된 표현: 친구의 새 신발에 경외심이 들었다. (X)
올바른 표현: 친구의 새 신발이 정말 멋져 보였다. (O)

To master 경외심 (Gyeong-oe-sim), it helps to compare it with its synonyms and near-synonyms. The most common alternative is 경외감 (Gyeong-oe-gam). The difference is subtle: ~심 refers to the 'heart/mind' or the internal state, while ~감 refers to the 'feeling' or 'sense'. In most cases, they are interchangeable, but 경외심 sounds slightly more focused on the person's character or deep-seated attitude, whereas 경외감 is the immediate sensation.

Comparison: 경외심 vs. 존경심: 존경심 (Respect) is for human virtues and social relationships. 경외심 is for things that transcend the human level.
Comparison: 경외심 vs. 숭배: 숭배 (Worship/Adoration) is an action or a religious practice. 경외심 is the internal emotion that might lead to 숭배.

Another related word is 외경 (Oe-gyeong), which is just the first two Hanja of 경외 reversed. While 외경 also means awe/reverence, it is even more formal and literary. You will mostly find it in older texts or high-level theological discussions. Then there is 감탄 (Gam-tan), which means 'admiration' or 'wonder'. This is the 'lite' version of 경외심. You feel 감탄 at a beautiful sunset; you feel 경외심 at the realization of the laws of physics that govern that sunset.

그녀는 스승의 인품에 존경심을 넘어서는 경외심을 품고 있었다. (She held a reverence for her teacher's character that went beyond mere respect.)

For a more negative or purely fearful connotation, one might use 외포 (Oe-po), which means 'fear and dread'. This lacks the 'respect' component of 경외심 and focuses on the intimidating power of something. Conversely, 흠모 (Heum-mo) means 'adoration' or 'yearning respect,' which is much softer and more affectionate than the heavy, serious 경외심. Choosing the right word depends on whether you want to emphasize the beauty, the power, the distance, or the closeness of the object.

Finally, in modern slang, people often use 경이롭다 (to be wonderful/marvelous) as an adjective. While 경외심 is the noun for the feeling, 경이롭다 is the state of the thing that causes it. If something is 경이롭다, it is likely to cause 경외심. Understanding these connections helps you build a semantic web, making it easier to recall the right word in the right situation, whether you are writing a formal essay or discussing a profound experience.

자연의 경이로움은 우리에게 깊은 경외심을 심어준다. (The wonder of nature instills deep awe in us.)

How Formal Is It?

재미있는 사실

The root word '경외' (敬畏) is found in the Analects of Confucius, where a superior person (군자) is said to have three things they hold in awe: the will of Heaven, great people, and the words of the sages.

발음 가이드

UK ɡjʌŋ.we.ɕim

US ɡjʌŋ.we.ɕim

In Korean, syllables generally have equal weight, but a slight emphasis may fall on the first syllable '경'.

라임이 맞는 단어

존경심 (Jongyeongsim) 동정심 (Dongjeongsim) 애국심 (Aeguksim) 호기심 (Hogisim) 자부심 (Jabusim) 경계심 (Gyeonggyesim) 자존심 (Jajonsim) 성취심 (Seongchwisim)

자주 하는 실수

Pronouncing 'Oe' as 'oh-ee' (two syllables). It should be one smooth sound.
Over-aspirating the 'G' sound at the start.
Pronouncing 'Sim' as 'sim' (like 'simple') instead of 'seem'.
Missing the 'ng' (ㅇ) support at the end of the first syllable.
Pronouncing 'Yeo' as 'yo' (as in 'yo-yo').

난이도

독해 4/5

Requires knowledge of Hanja-based abstract nouns and is found in high-level texts.

쓰기 5/5

Difficult to use naturally without sounding overly dramatic in casual contexts.

말하기 4/5

Pronunciation is straightforward, but finding the right social context to use it is tricky.

듣기 3/5

Common in documentaries and lectures, making it easier to recognize over time.

다음에 무엇을 배울까

선수 학습

존경 (Respect) 두렵다 (To be scared) 마음 (Heart/Mind) 자연 (Nature) 느끼다 (To feel)

다음에 배울 것

숭고하다 (To be sublime) 경이롭다 (To be wonderful) 압도되다 (To be overwhelmed) 엄숙하다 (To be solemn) 신비주의 (Mysticism)

고급

외경 (Reverence) 경천애인 (Revere Heaven, Love People) 불가항력 (Force majeure) 무궁무진 (Endless) 경외지심 (Heart of awe)

알아야 할 문법

Noun + 에 대한 (Regarding/For)

그는 우주**에 대한** 경외심이 깊다.

Noun + 으로 하여금 (Making/Causing someone to...)

그 풍경은 우리**로 하여금** 경외심을 자아냈다.

Verb + 게 되다 (To come to/to happen to)

그 책을 읽고 경외심을 느끼**게 되었다**.

Noun + 을/를 금치 못하다 (Cannot help but...)

우리는 그의 천재성에 경외심**을 금치 못했다**.

Noun + 이/가 들다 (To have a feeling arise/enter)

갑자기 자연에 대한 경외심**이 들었다**.

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수준별 예문

나는 큰 산을 보고 경외심을 느껴요.

I feel awe looking at the big mountain.

Uses basic 'Noun + 을 느껴요' structure.

바다는 정말 커요. 경외심이 생겨요.

The ocean is really big. A sense of awe arises.

Uses '생겨요' to mean 'to be created/to arise'.

밤하늘의 별은 경외심을 줘요.

The stars in the night sky give a sense of awe.

Simple Subject + Object + Verb.

우리는 신에게 경외심을 가져요.

We have reverence for God.

'~에게' indicates the target of the feeling.

그림이 너무 멋져서 경외심이 들었어요.

The painting was so cool that I felt awe.

'~이 들다' is a common way to say a feeling 'entered' one's mind.

그 왕은 경외심을 받는 사람이에요.

That king is a person who receives reverence.

Passive-like structure using '받는'.

자연에 대한 경외심을 배워요.

I learn about awe for nature.

'~에 대한' means 'about' or 'for'.

선생님은 경외심이 있는 분이에요.

The teacher is someone who has (inspires) awe.

Describes a person using the noun.

거대한 폭포 앞에서 우리는 경외심을 느꼈습니다.

We felt awe in front of the huge waterfall.

Use of formal polite ending '-습니다'.

그의 훌륭한 업적은 사람들에게 경외심을 주었다.

His great achievements gave people a sense of awe.

Past tense '주었다'.

우주 비행사는 지구를 보며 경외심에 빠졌다.

The astronaut fell into awe while looking at Earth.

'~에 빠지다' means to fall into (an emotion).

작은 생명에도 경외심을 가져야 합니다.

We must have reverence even for small life.

'~어야 합니다' expresses necessity.

그 음악은 듣는 사람에게 경외심을 불러일으킨다.

That music arouses awe in the listener.

'부러일으키다' is a common collocation.

역사적인 장소에 가면 경외심이 생깁니다.

When I go to historical places, awe arises.

'~면' (if/when) conditional structure.

그녀의 용기 있는 행동은 경외심을 자아냈다.

Her courageous action evoked awe.

'자아냈다' (evoked) is a more advanced verb.

신비로운 숲은 우리에게 경외심을 가르쳐 주었다.

The mysterious forest taught us awe.

'~어 주다' auxiliary verb for benefit/action.

대자연의 신비로움은 인간에게 깊은 경외심을 갖게 한다.

The mystery of Mother Nature makes humans have deep awe.

Causative structure '~게 하다'.

우리는 고대의 위대한 건축물들 앞에서 경외심을 느낀다.

We feel awe in front of the great buildings of ancient times.

Plural '건축물들' and focus on historical context.

그 과학자의 발견은 온 세상에 경외심을 불러일으켰다.

The scientist's discovery inspired awe throughout the whole world.

Abstract subject '발견' and global impact.

그는 스승의 깊은 지혜에 경외심을 표했다.

He expressed reverence for his teacher's deep wisdom.

'~에 표하다' (to express toward).

예술가는 자연에 대한 경외심을 작품에 담았다.

The artist put their awe for nature into the work.

'~에 담다' (to put/contain in).

종교적인 의식은 신자들에게 경외심을 심어준다.

Religious rituals instill a sense of reverence in believers.

'심어주다' (to plant/instill).

우리는 생명의 탄생 과정에서 경외심을 느끼게 된다.

We come to feel awe during the process of the birth of life.

'~게 된다' indicates a natural transition.

그의 조용한 카리스마는 주변 사람들에게 경외심을 주었다.

His quiet charisma gave those around him a sense of awe.

Abstract noun '카리스마' paired with '경외심'.

현대인들은 자연에 대한 경외심을 잃어가고 있는 것 같다.

It seems that modern people are losing their sense of awe for nature.

'~어 가고 있다' (gradual process) + '~인 것 같다' (supposition).

칸트는 밤하늘의 별과 내면의 도덕 법칙에 대해 경외심을 가졌다.

Kant held reverence for the stars in the night sky and the moral law within.

Reference to famous philosophical thought.

그 소설은 신의 영역에 도전하는 인간의 오만과 경외심을 다룬다.

The novel deals with human arrogance and awe in challenging the divine realm.

Contrasting '오만' (arrogance) and '경외심'.

웅장한 대성당의 건축 양식은 방문객들로 하여금 경외심을 자아낸다.

The architectural style of the grand cathedral evokes awe in visitors.

'~로 하여금' (making/causing someone to do).

우리는 기술의 발전 속도에 대해 경외심과 두려움을 동시에 느낀다.

We feel both awe and fear at the speed of technological development.

Using '동시에' to show complex emotions.

그 지휘자의 손짓 하나하나가 단원들에게 경외심을 심어주었다.

Every single gesture of the conductor instilled awe in the members.

Emphasis using '하나하나'.

환경 보호는 자연에 대한 경외심에서부터 시작되어야 한다.

Environmental protection must start from a sense of awe for nature.

'~에서부터' (starting from).

그 학자의 방대한 지식은 동료들 사이에서 경외심의 대상이 되었다.

The scholar's vast knowledge became an object of awe among colleagues.

'~의 대상이 되다' (to become the object of).

인간의 유한함을 자각할 때 비로소 절대자에 대한 경외심이 싹튼다.

Only when one realizes human finitude does reverence for the Absolute sprout.

'~ㄹ 때 비로소' (only when... then) + '싹트다' (to sprout/begin).

그의 연주는 기교를 넘어 영적인 경외심을 불러일으키는 경지에 이르렀다.

His performance reached a level that inspires spiritual awe beyond mere technique.

'~을 넘어' (beyond) + '경지에 이르다' (to reach a level/realm).

진정한 리더십은 공포가 아닌 경외심을 바탕으로 형성되어야 한다.

True leadership should be formed based on reverence, not fear.

'~이 아닌' (not A) + '~을 바탕으로' (based on).

우리는 우주의 광막함 앞에서 자신의 미미함을 깨닫고 경외심에 사로잡힌다.

We realize our insignificance before the vastness of the universe and are seized by awe.

'사로잡히다' (to be seized/captured).

고전 문학은 종종 인간 본성에 대한 경외심과 연민을 동시에 불러일으킨다.

Classical literature often evokes both awe and compassion for human nature.

Complex emotional pairing: '경외심' and '연민' (compassion).

그 건축가는 자연의 순리를 거스르지 않는 설계를 통해 경외심을 표현했다.

The architect expressed reverence through a design that does not go against the laws of nature.

'~을 거스르지 않는' (not going against).

과학적 탐구는 단순히 지식을 쌓는 과정이 아니라 경외심을 확장하는 과정이다.

Scientific inquiry is not simply a process of accumulating knowledge, but of expanding awe.

'A가 아니라 B이다' structure.

전통적인 제례 의식에는 조상에 대한 깊은 경외심이 깃들어 있다.

Traditional ancestral rites are imbued with deep reverence for ancestors.

'깃들어 있다' (to be imbued/settled in).

숭고미란 인간이 감당하기 힘든 거대한 대상 앞에서 느끼는 경외심의 미학적 표현이다.

The sublime is an aesthetic expression of the awe one feels before a massive object that is hard to bear.

Academic definition of 'Sublime' (숭고미).

그 철학자는 이성으로 파악할 수 없는 물자체에 대해 외경에 가까운 경외심을 견지했다.

The philosopher maintained a reverence close to awe for the 'thing-in-itself' that cannot be grasped by reason.

Use of '물자체' (Ding an sich) and '견지하다' (to maintain/hold).

문명의 이기 속에서 현대인은 존재의 근원에 대한 경외심을 망각한 채 살아가고 있다.

Amidst the conveniences of civilization, modern people live while forgetting the awe for the source of existence.

'~한 채' (in the state of) + '문명의 이기' (conveniences of civilization).

예술의 궁극적 목적은 관객의 영혼을 흔들어 경외심이라는 심연으로 인도하는 것이다.

The ultimate purpose of art is to shake the viewer's soul and lead them into the abyss called awe.

Metaphorical use of '심연' (abyss).

그 정치가는 권력에 대한 탐욕 대신 역사의 준엄함에 대한 경외심을 선택했다.

The politician chose reverence for the sternness of history instead of greed for power.

'~ 대신' (instead of) + '역사의 준엄함' (sternness of history).

생명 공학의 비약적 발전은 우리에게 경외심과 함께 윤리적 책임이라는 난제를 안겨주었다.

The rapid development of biotechnology has presented us with the difficult problem of ethical responsibility along with awe.

'난제를 안겨주다' (to present/give a difficult problem).

그의 시는 언어의 한계를 극복하고 형언할 수 없는 존재의 신비에 대한 경외심을 노래한다.

His poetry overcomes the limits of language and sings of the reverence for the ineffable mystery of existence.

'형언할 수 없는' (ineffable/indescribable).

우리는 타자의 고통 앞에서 함부로 말하기보다 침묵 섞인 경외심을 지녀야 한다.

Before the suffering of others, we should hold a silence-mixed reverence rather than speaking carelessly.

'~보다' (rather than) + '침묵 섞인' (mixed with silence).

자주 쓰는 조합

경외심을 느끼다

경외심을 자아내다

경외심을 불러일으키다

경외심을 갖다

경외심에 사로잡히다

깊은 경외심

경외심의 대상

경외심을 표하다

경외심 어린

경외심을 심어주다

자주 쓰는 구문

자연에 대한 경외심

— Awe for nature. A standard phrase used in environmental and descriptive contexts.

자연에 대한 경외심을 잃지 말아야 합니다.

신에 대한 경외심

— Reverence for God. Used in religious or theological discussions.

신에 대한 경외심은 종교의 기본이다.

절대적인 경외심

— Absolute awe. Used when the feeling is complete and unquestionable.

그는 왕에게 절대적인 경외심을 보였다.

경외심을 자극하다

— To stimulate or trigger a sense of awe.

이 영화는 인간의 상상력을 자극하여 경외심을 느끼게 한다.

경외심을 넘어선

— Beyond awe. Used when a feeling is even more intense than reverence.

그것은 경외심을 넘어선 공포였다.

경외심을 잃다

— To lose one's sense of awe (often implying becoming arrogant).

인간이 기술을 맹신하여 경외심을 잃으면 위험하다.

경외심을 가르치다

— To teach (someone) reverence.

학교에서 생명에 대한 경외심을 가르쳐야 한다.

경외심이 들다

— To feel awe (literally, 'awe enters').

그의 헌신적인 삶을 보니 경외심이 들었다.

경외심 가득한

— Full of awe.

그녀는 경외심 가득한 목소리로 대답했다.

경외심을 고취하다

— To inspire or encourage a sense of reverence.

이 교육 프로그램은 역사에 대한 경외심을 고취한다.

자주 혼동되는 단어

경외심 vs 존경심

John-gyeong-sim is respect for people's character. Gyeong-oe-sim is awe for something much larger than oneself.

경외심 vs 공포심

Gong-po-sim is pure fear/terror. Gyeong-oe-sim must include an element of respect or admiration.

경외심 vs 호기심

Ho-gi-sim is curiosity. While both involve wonder, Gyeong-oe-sim is much more serious and humbling.

관용어 및 표현

"경외심을 금치 못하다"

— To be unable to hold back one's awe; to be completely struck by awe.

그 거대한 광경에 경외심을 금치 못했다.

Formal

"두려움과 경외심"

— Fear and awe. Often used together to describe the full spectrum of the emotion.

그는 바다의 힘에 대해 두려움과 경외심을 동시에 가지고 있다.

Neutral

"경외심의 눈으로 바라보다"

— To look at something with eyes of awe; to view something with great reverence.

아이들은 우주 비행사를 경외심의 눈으로 바라보았다.

Neutral

"경외심을 온몸으로 느끼다"

— To feel awe with one's whole body; to be deeply and physically moved by awe.

그는 산 정상에서 경외심을 온몸으로 느꼈다.

Literary

"경외심이 뼛속까지 스며들다"

— For awe to seep into one's very bones; to feel an extremely deep reverence.

그 위대한 유산 앞에서 경외심이 뼛속까지 스며드는 것 같았다.

Literary

"경외심을 자아내는 풍경"

— An awe-inspiring landscape.

히말라야는 경외심을 자아내는 풍경을 자랑한다.

Neutral

"경외심을 불러일으키는 존재"

— An awe-inspiring being/entity.

그는 우리에게 경외심을 불러일으키는 존재였다.

Neutral

"경외심에 고개를 숙이다"

— To bow one's head in awe/reverence.

우리는 그의 위대한 희생 앞에 경외심에 고개를 숙였다.

Formal

"경외심을 바탕으로 한"

— Based on a sense of awe.

자연에 대한 경외심을 바탕으로 한 건축 설계.

Formal

"경외심이 우러나오다"

— For a sense of awe to well up from within.

그의 진심 어린 행동에 경외심이 우러나왔다.

Neutral

혼동하기 쉬운

경외심 vs 경외감

They look and sound almost identical.

경외심 (Sim) focuses on the internal heart/mind state. 경외감 (Gam) focuses on the external sensation or feeling. They are 95% interchangeable.

경외심을 품다 (Hold awe in heart) vs. 경외감을 느끼다 (Feel a sense of awe).

경외심 vs 감탄

Both express being impressed.

감탄 is general admiration for something good or clever. 경외심 is a deep, spiritual-level reaction to something overwhelming.

요리 솜씨에 감탄하다 (Admire cooking) vs. 신의 섭리에 경외심을 느끼다 (Feel awe at divine providence).

경외심 vs 숭배

Both involve high regard.

숭배 is the action of worshiping. 경외심 is the emotion that leads to that worship.

그는 영웅을 숭배한다 (He worships the hero) vs. 그는 영웅에게 경외심을 느낀다 (He feels awe toward the hero).

경외심 vs 경이

Both relate to wonder.

경이 is often used as a noun for a 'marvel' or 'miracle' (the thing itself). 경외심 is the 'awe' (the human reaction).

자연의 경이 (The marvel of nature) vs. 자연에 대한 경외심 (Awe toward nature).

경외심 vs 외경

It is the root of the word.

외경 is a more formal, literary, and slightly archaic noun. 경외심 is the standard modern term for the feeling.

외경의 대상 (Object of reverence) vs. 경외심을 느끼다 (Feel awe).

문장 패턴

[N]을 보고 경외심을 느꼈어요.

바다를 보고 경외심을 느꼈어요.

[N]에 대한 경외심을 갖게 되었다.

자연에 대한 경외심을 갖게 되었다.

[N]은 보는 이로 하여금 경외심을 자아낸다.

그 산은 보는 이로 하여금 경외심을 자아낸다.

[N]에 대해 경외심을 표하다.

그의 업적에 대해 경외심을 표하다.

[N] 앞에서 경외심에 사로잡히다.

우주의 광활함 앞에서 경외심에 사로잡히다.

경외심을 불러일으키는 [N].

경외심을 불러일으키는 지도자.

[N]이라는 심연의 경외심.

존재라는 심연의 경외심.

[N]에 외경에 가까운 경외심을 지니다.

진리에 외경에 가까운 경외심을 지니다.

어휘 가족

명사

경외 (Gyeong-oe) - Awe/Reverence

경외감 (Gyeong-oe-gam) - Sense of awe

외경 (Oe-gyeong) - Reverence

경외자 (Gyeong-oe-ja) - One who reveres

동사

경외하다 (Gyeong-oe-hada) - To revere/to hold in awe

형용사

경외스럽다 (Gyeong-oe-seureopda) - To be awe-inspiring/venerable

사용법

frequency

Medium-Low in daily speech, High in formal media and literature.

자주 하는 실수

Using '경외심' for friends. → 존경심 (Respect) or 친근감 (Closeness).
'경외심' implies a huge distance between you and the object. Using it for a friend sounds like you are scared of them or think they are a god.
Saying '경외심을 해요'. → 경외심을 느껴요 or 경외심을 가져요.
You don't 'do' (하다) awe; you 'feel' (느끼다) or 'have' (가지다) it. This is a common error with abstract nouns.
Confusing it with '경계심' (Gyeong-gye-sim). → 경외심 (Awe) vs. 경계심 (Wary/Caution).
They sound similar, but '경계심' is being suspicious or on guard against danger. '경외심' is about respect.
Using it for a scary movie. → 공포심 (Fear) or 무서움 (Scared).
A horror movie monster doesn't deserve 'respect' (敬), so '경외심' is the wrong word unless the monster is a majestic dragon or deity.
Using it in a very casual text message. → 와 대박! or 진짜 멋지다!
'경외심' is too formal for texting about a cool photo. It makes you sound like a textbook or a 19th-century poet.

팁

Save it for the Big Stuff

Only use '경외심' for things that are truly grand. If you use it for a good sandwich, people will think you're joking. Use it for the ocean, the stars, or a life-changing piece of art.

Use the Right Particles

Always remember the target of your awe needs '~에' or '~에 대한'. For example: '자연**에 대한** 경외심'. This connects the feeling to the source correctly.

Respect + Fear

If you only feel respect, use '존경'. If you only feel fear, use '두려움'. If you feel both because something is so much bigger than you, use '경외심'.

Formal Writing Hero

In essays (TOPIK writing), '경외심' is a high-scoring word. It shows you have a sophisticated vocabulary and can discuss abstract emotions.

Related Adjective

Learn '경이롭다' (to be wonderful/marvelous) alongside '경외심'. They often appear together. '경이로운 자연' (Marvelous nature) causes '경외심' (Awe).

Documentary Key

When watching Korean nature documentaries, listen for this word. It's almost guaranteed to appear when they show a wide shot of a mountain or the sea.

Ancestral Context

In discussions about Korean tradition, '경외심' is often used regarding ancestors or 'Haneul' (Heaven). It shows a very traditional, polite mindset.

Pronunciation Tip

The 'Oe' in 'Gyeong-oe-sim' is the hardest part. Practice saying it as one sound, like the 'e' in 'pet' but with rounded lips. Don't say 'oh-ee'.

Sim vs Gam

If you forget '경외심', try '경외감'. They are almost always the same. 'Sim' is heart, 'Gam' is feeling. Both are perfectly fine in formal settings.

The 'Sim' Rule

Many Korean words for emotions end in 'Sim' (心 - heart). 존경심, 호기심, 자부심. Grouping them together makes it easier to remember that they all describe a 'state of heart'.

암기하기

기억법

Think of 'Gyeong' as 'Grand' and 'Oe' as 'Oh!'. Your 'Sim' (heart) says 'Oh!' at something 'Grand'. Gyeong-oe-sim.

시각적 연상

Imagine a tiny hiker standing at the base of a mountain that touches the clouds. The hiker's eyes are wide (respect) and they are slightly trembling (fear).

Word Web

Nature God Universe Respect Fear Humble Sublime Greatness

챌린지

Try to describe the last time you saw something truly massive (like a skyscraper or the ocean) using the word '경외심을 느꼈다'.

어원

Derived from Sino-Korean (Hanja) roots. 敬 (Gyeong) meaning 'to respect' or 'to honor' and 畏 (Oe) meaning 'to fear' or 'to be in awe of.' The final 心 (Sim) means 'heart' or 'mind.'

원래 의미: The state of heart that respects and fears simultaneously.

Sino-Korean

문화적 맥락

Used in religious contexts; ensure respectful usage when referring to different faiths.

Similar to the concept of 'The Sublime' in English Romantic literature (Wordsworth, Burke).

Kant's 'Critique of Practical Reason' (often translated into Korean using this word). Nature documentaries by David Attenborough (subtitled with '경외심'). Korean historical dramas (Sageuk) describing the King's authority.

실생활에서 연습하기

실제 사용 상황

Observing Nature

자연의 위대함에 경외심을 느끼다
웅장한 광경이 경외심을 자아내다
끝없는 바다 앞에서 경외심이 들다
경외심을 불러일으키는 산맥

Religion and Spirituality

신의 존재에 대한 경외심
경외심을 가지고 기도하다
성스러운 장소에서의 경외심
절대자에게 경외심을 표하다

Art and Music

거장의 작품에 경외심을 느끼다
음악이 주는 깊은 경외심
경외심 어린 시선으로 감상하다
예술적 성취에 대한 경외심

Science and Discovery

우주의 광활함에 대한 경외심
과학적 발견이 주는 경외심
인간 뇌의 복잡성에 대한 경외심
경외심을 가지고 탐구하다

Historical Figures

위인의 삶에 대한 경외심
그의 업적은 경외심을 자아낸다
역사적 유산 앞에서의 경외심
존경을 넘어선 경외심

대화 시작하기

"대자연의 풍경을 보고 경외심을 느껴본 적이 있나요? (Have you ever felt awe looking at a landscape of Mother Nature?)"

"어떤 사람이 당신에게 경외심을 불러일으키나요? (What kind of person inspires awe in you?)"

"우주의 사진을 볼 때 경외심이 드나요, 아니면 무섭나요? (When you see photos of the universe, do you feel awe or are you scared?)"

"예술 작품 앞에서 경외심을 느껴본 경험이 있나요? (Have you ever experienced feeling awe in front of a work of art?)"

"현대 사회에서 우리가 경외심을 잃어가고 있다고 생각하시나요? (Do you think we are losing our sense of awe in modern society?)"

일기 주제

최근에 나를 가장 작게 만들었던, 즉 경외심을 느끼게 했던 순간에 대해 써보세요. (Write about a moment recently that made you feel the smallest—that is, a moment you felt awe.)

만약 당신이 경외심을 불러일으키는 건축물을 짓는다면, 어떤 모습일까요? (If you were to build an awe-inspiring building, what would it look like?)

'존경'과 '경외심'의 차이를 자신의 경험을 바탕으로 설명해보세요. (Explain the difference between 'respect' and 'awe' based on your own experience.)

자연에 대한 경외심이 환경 보호에 어떤 역할을 할 수 있을까요? (What role can awe for nature play in environmental protection?)

과학의 발전이 세상의 신비와 경외심을 줄인다고 생각하나요, 아니면 늘린다고 생각하나요? (Do you think the development of science decreases or increases the mystery and awe of the world?)

자주 묻는 질문

10 질문

Technically, you can if you want to say their talent is god-like, but it sounds very extreme. Usually, fans use '존경' (respect) or '팬심' (fan heart). Using '경외심' implies they are a transcendent being that scares you a little with their greatness.

The difference is very small. '심' (心) means heart/mind, suggesting a deep-seated attitude. '감' (感) means feeling/sense, suggesting an immediate emotional response. In 99% of cases, you can use either.

It is generally positive because it involves 'respect' (敬). However, it has a heavy, serious tone because of the 'fear' (畏) component. It’s not 'happy-positive,' but 'solemn-positive.'

You can use the phrase '경외심을 불러일으키는' (arousing awe) or the adjective '경외스러운' (awe-inspiring/venerable). For example, '경외심을 불러일으키는 광경' (An awe-inspiring sight).

No, it's quite rare in casual talk. You'll hear it in documentaries, news about space or nature, religious settings, or when people are discussing deep art and philosophy.

Usually, no. If something is just powerful and scary but not respectable (like a monster or a disaster), you would use '공포' (fear) or '경악' (horror). '경외심' requires a sense of majesty or virtue.

The most common and natural verb is '느끼다' (to feel). For formal writing, '자아내다' (to evoke) or '불러일으키다' (to inspire) are excellent choices.

Yes: 敬 (Respect) + 畏 (Fear) + 心 (Heart). Knowing these helps you understand why the word feels so heavy and serious.

Yes, you can say '경외심을 갖고 있다' (I am holding/having awe) or '경외심을 품고 있다' (I am harboring/holding awe in my heart).

It is similar to 'wonder' when 'wonder' means 'awe.' However, 'wonder' can also mean 'curiosity' (I wonder why), which '경외심' does not cover. It is closer to 'reverence' or 'veneration.'

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