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A2 adverb 9분 분량

최소

choeso

연습하기 예시 노트와 팁 최소 30초 만에

설명 최소 in your Level:

At the A1 level, you should focus on '최소' as a way to express basic numerical requirements. Think of it as the word you use when you want to say you need 'at least' a certain number of things. At this stage, you don't need to worry about complex grammar. Just remember that '최소' usually comes before a number. For example, '최소 두 개' (at least two) or '최소 한 시간' (at least one hour). You will mostly use this when talking about time, money, or shopping. It's a very helpful word for being specific about what you need. Even if your sentences are short, adding '최소' makes them much clearer. For instance, instead of just saying 'I need time,' you can say '최소 10분 필요해요' (I need at least 10 minutes). This shows a higher level of communication even at the beginning of your journey. Try to practice it with simple counters like '명' (people), '개' (items), and '원' (won). Focus on the sound: 'Choe-so.' It is a strong, distinct word. Don't confuse it with '최고' (choe-go), which means 'the best' or 'maximum.' '최소' is the bottom, '최고' is the top. By learning this pair, you can start describing ranges of things very simply. At A1, you are building the foundation of your Korean vocabulary, and '최소' is one of those essential bricks that helps you handle numbers and requirements in daily life.

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At the A2 level, you can start using '최소' in more complete sentences and begin to understand the adverbial form '최소한.' You should be able to use it to describe daily routines and requirements. For example, instead of just saying 'I sleep 8 hours,' you can say 'I sleep at least 8 hours' (저는 최소한 8시간은 자요). Notice the addition of the particle '은' after the time—this is a common way to emphasize the 'at least' meaning in natural Korean. At this level, you will encounter '최소' in contexts like meeting times, prices, and quantities. You might use it to tell a friend 'We need at least 3 people to play this game' (이 게임을 하려면 최소한 3명이 필요해요). You should also be aware of the difference between '최소' and '적어도.' While they both mean 'at least,' '최소' feels a bit more like a 'minimum requirement,' whereas '적어도' is a more general 'at least.' As an A2 learner, using '최소' correctly in restaurant settings (like 'minimum order' or '최소 주문') or when making plans will make you sound much more proficient. You are moving beyond simple labels and starting to express constraints and conditions. Practice using '최소' with verbs like '필요하다' (to be needed) and '걸리다' (to take time). This will help you describe the logistics of your life more accurately to Korean speakers.

At the B1 level, you should be comfortable using '최소' and '최소한' in a variety of social and semi-professional contexts. You are now moving beyond simple numbers into abstract concepts. For example, you can talk about '최소한의 예의' (the minimum courtesy) or '최소한의 노력' (the minimum effort). This allows you to express opinions about behavior and expectations. You should also be able to use '최소' in business-like scenarios, such as discussing '최소 비용' (minimum cost) or '최소 수량' (minimum quantity). At this stage, you should start noticing the word '최저' (lowest) and how it differs from '최소.' '최저' is for records and levels (like the lowest temperature), while '최소' is for amounts. A B1 learner should be able to explain a process or a requirement using '최소' as a boundary. For instance, 'To apply for this job, you need at least a level 4 TOPIK score' (이 일에 지원하려면 최소한 토픽 4급이 있어야 합니다). You can also use it to set conditions in negotiations: 'I can sell it for at least 50,000 won' (최소한 5만 원은 받아야겠어요). This level is about nuance—understanding that '최소' provides a logical floor to your arguments. You should also be able to use the structure '최소한 ~는 해야 한다' (You should at least do ~) to give advice or express necessity. This helps you engage in more complex conversations about responsibilities and social norms in Korea.

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At the B2 level, you should have a firm grasp of '최소' in formal, academic, and professional Korean. You can use it to discuss complex topics like '최소 임금제' (minimum wage system) or '최소한의 인간다움' (minimum humanity/decency). Your use of '최소한' as an adverb should be seamless, and you should be able to use it to qualify your statements with precision. For example, in an essay, you might write about the '최소한의 개입' (minimum intervention) of the government in the economy. At this level, you should also understand the more formal '최소한도' (minimum limit) and use it appropriately in technical contexts. You are expected to distinguish between '최소' and its more colloquial counterparts like '못해도' or '아무리 적어도' in different registers. A B2 learner can use '최소' to construct logical arguments: 'Even if we consider only the minimum impact, this policy is necessary' (최소한의 영향만 고려하더라도 이 정책은 필요합니다). You should also be aware of how '최소' interacts with other superlative expressions like '최대' (maximum) and '최적' (optimal). In professional settings, you might be asked to find the '최소 공배수' (least common multiple) or discuss '최소 비용 고효율' (minimum cost, high efficiency). This level requires you to use '최소' not just as a vocabulary word, but as a tool for categorization and logical boundary-setting in sophisticated discourse.

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At the C1 level, your understanding of '최소' reaches a near-native depth, allowing you to use it in nuanced, idiomatic, and highly formal ways. You can appreciate the philosophical implications of '최소한의 것' (the minimal things/minimalism) and discuss them fluently. You are capable of using '최소' in legal or highly technical prose where every word matters. For instance, you might analyze '최소 침습 수술' (minimally invasive surgery) or '최소한의 증거' (minimum evidence) in a legal case. At this level, you can use '최소한' to add a layer of rhetorical emphasis or to soften a demand politely. You understand the subtle social weight of accusing someone of not meeting the '최소한의 도리' (minimum moral duty). Your ability to switch between '최소,' '적어도,' and '최저' is instinctive, based on the specific register and emotional tone of the conversation. You can also use '최소' in complex grammatical constructions involving hypothetical situations, such as '최소한의 가능성이라도 있다면' (if there is even the slightest/minimum possibility). A C1 learner can engage in deep cultural discussions about how the concept of 'the minimum' varies between cultures, such as the minimum personal space or minimum social obligations in Korea versus the West. You are no longer just using the word; you are using it to navigate the subtle undercurrents of Korean thought and logic.

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At the C2 level, you possess a masterly command of '최소' and all its related forms, using them with the precision of a native speaker in any professional or academic field. You can effortlessly use '최소' in literary contexts to convey subtle meanings or in high-level policy discussions regarding '최소한의 사회적 안전망' (the minimum social safety net). You are familiar with rare or highly specialized terms like '최소 자승법' (least squares method) in statistics or '최소 작용의 원리' (principle of least action) in physics. Your use of the word is indistinguishable from a native speaker's, including the ability to use it ironically or for specific stylistic effects in creative writing. You can interpret the historical evolution of terms involving '최소' in Korean law and society. At this stage, you don't just know the word; you understand its place within the entire Sino-Korean lexical system. You can explain the nuances between '최소' and other '최-' words to others. Whether you are delivering a keynote speech, writing a doctoral thesis, or negotiating a high-stakes international treaty, you use '최소' to define boundaries with absolute clarity and rhetorical power. You understand that '최소' is not just a limit, but a foundational concept that defines the very edges of possibility and necessity in the Korean linguistic world.

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최소 30초 만에

최소 means 'minimum' or 'at least' and sets the bottom limit of a quantity or requirement.
It is a Sino-Korean word combining 'most' (최) and 'small' (소), creating a superlative for smallness.
Commonly used as '최소한' (adverb) to mean 'at least' in daily conversation and formal requirements.
It is the direct opposite of '최대' (maximum) and is essential for discussing costs, time, and rules.

The Korean word 최소 (最小) is a fundamental term used to denote the absolute lowest limit, the smallest amount, or the baseline requirement for a given situation. Derived from Sino-Korean roots, it combines '최' (最 - meaning 'most' or 'extreme') and '소' (少 - meaning 'small' or 'few'), literally translating to 'the most small.' In English, it is most commonly translated as 'minimum' or 'at least'. This word is indispensable in both formal and informal contexts, as it helps speakers define boundaries and expectations. Whether you are discussing the minimum wage (최소 임금), the minimum amount of sleep required for health, or the least amount of effort needed to pass an exam, '최소' provides the quantitative floor for your statement.

Noun Usage: As a noun, '최소' refers to the minimum quantity itself. For example, '최소 인원' means the minimum number of people required for an event.
Adverbial Usage: When used as '최소한' (최소 + 한/limit), it functions as an adverb meaning 'at least' or 'at the very least,' emphasizing that the following number or state is the absolute bottom threshold.

성공하려면 최소한 매일 연습해야 해요. (To succeed, you must practice at least every day.)

In Korean culture, where precision in social standing and expectations is valued, '최소' is often used to establish '최소한의 예의' (the minimum courtesy). This refers to the basic level of politeness one must show to others, regardless of their relationship. If someone says you lack '최소한의 예의,' it is a significant criticism, implying you have fallen below the societal floor of acceptable behavior. Furthermore, in the fast-paced 'Pali-Pali' (hurry-hurry) culture of Korea, '최소' is frequently used in business to discuss '최소 비용' (minimum cost) and '최소 시간' (minimum time), reflecting a constant drive for efficiency and optimization. Understanding this word allows you to navigate the logical and quantitative aspects of Korean life, from reading product labels to negotiating contracts or simply planning a meet-up with friends.

이 프로젝트는 최소 3명이 필요합니다. (This project requires at least 3 people.)

Using 최소 correctly involves understanding its placement and the particles that often accompany it. Because it can function as both a noun and an adverbial root, its role changes depending on the sentence structure. When used as a noun, it often modifies another noun directly, such as '최소 수량' (minimum quantity) or '최소 점수' (minimum score). In these cases, it acts like an adjective in English, defining the lower bound of the noun it precedes.

Direct Noun Modification: 최소 + Noun: '최소 인원' (minimum number of people), '최소 비용' (minimum cost).
Adverbial Form: 최소한 + Verb/Clause: '최소한 8시간은 자야 해요' (You should sleep at least 8 hours).

One of the most common patterns is [Number/Amount] + 최소 or 최소 + [Number/Amount]. For example, '최소 10분' (minimum 10 minutes). When you want to emphasize the requirement, you add the particle '은/는' to make it '최소한은' or more commonly use '최소한' before the amount. In conversational Korean, you might hear people drop the '한' and just say '최소 5천 원은 있어야 해' (You need at least 5,000 won).

이 가방은 최소 10만 원이에요. (This bag is at least 100,000 won.)

In more complex grammatical structures, '최소' can be used with the particle '으로' to mean 'at a minimum.' For instance, '최소한으로 줄이다' means 'to reduce to a minimum.' This is very common in technical or administrative writing. When comparing things, '최소' is the opposite of '최대' (maximum). Just as '최대' sets the ceiling, '최소' sets the floor. If you are describing a range, you would use both: '최소 5명에서 최대 10명' (from a minimum of 5 to a maximum of 10 people).

우리는 최소한의 장비로 산에 올라갔다. (We went up the mountain with the minimum equipment.)

The word 최소 is ubiquitous in Korean daily life, but the context determines whether it sounds technical or conversational. In the workplace, you will hear it constantly during planning meetings. Managers might ask for the '최소 제작 기간' (minimum production period) or discuss the '최소 주문 수량' (Minimum Order Quantity - MOQ). If you are shopping online in Korea, you will frequently see the term '최소 구매 금액' (minimum purchase amount) required for free shipping. This is a practical application that every learner living in Korea will encounter almost daily.

In the Kitchen: Recipes might say '최소 30분 동안 재워두세요' (Marinate for at least 30 minutes).
In News and Media: Economic reports often discuss '최소 임금' (minimum wage) or '최소 성장률' (minimum growth rate).

In social settings, the adverbial form '최소한' is used to express personal standards or moral baselines. If a friend is late, you might say, '최소한 늦는다고 연락은 해줘야지' (At the very least, you should have contacted me to say you'd be late). Here, '최소한' carries a tone of reproach, suggesting that the other person failed to meet the bare minimum of social expectation. This usage is common in K-Dramas during scenes of conflict or emotional confrontation, where characters argue about what they 'at least' deserve from one another.

그 영화는 최소 세 번은 봐야 이해가 돼요. (You have to watch that movie at least three times to understand it.)

You will also hear '최소' in health and fitness contexts. Personal trainers often set '최소 목표' (minimum goals) for their clients. A common phrase is '하루에 최소 만 보 걷기' (walking at least 10,000 steps a day). In schools and universities, students worry about '최소 학점' (minimum credits) needed to graduate or keep a scholarship. Because Korean society is highly structured around standards and tiers, '최소' serves as the linguistic marker for the entry point of every tier, making it a vital word for anyone trying to understand the requirements of Korean life.

For English speakers, the biggest challenge with 최소 is distinguishing it from its synonyms and using the correct particle. A common mistake is using '최소' when '적어도' would be more natural, or confusing it with '최저'. While they all relate to 'least' or 'minimum,' their nuances differ significantly. '최소' is objective and numerical. '적어도' is more subjective and often expresses a sense of relief or a personal evaluation of a situation.

최소 vs. 최저: '최저' (Lowest) is used for levels, records, or rankings (e.g., 최저 기온 - lowest temperature), whereas '최소' (Minimum) is used for quantities and amounts (e.g., 최소 수량 - minimum quantity).
최소 vs. 적어도: '적어도' is often used at the beginning of a sentence to mean 'at least' in a more conversational way, while '최소' is more rigid.

Another common error is the misplacement of '최소한.' Learners often try to translate 'at least' word-for-word and put it at the end of a phrase, whereas in Korean, it almost always precedes the quantity it modifies. For example, saying '사과 3개 최소한' is incorrect; it should be '최소한 사과 3개.' Additionally, learners sometimes forget that '최소' can be a noun. You cannot say '그것은 최소이다' (It is minimum) in the same way you do in English; you would more likely say '그것이 최소한이다' (That is the minimum) or use a more specific noun like '최소량' (minimum amount).

Incorrect: 기온이 최소예요.
Correct: 기온이 최저예요. (The temperature is at its lowest.)

Finally, be careful with the nuance of '최소한의.' Using the possessive particle '의' turns it into an adjective meaning 'minimal' or 'the bare minimum.' If you use this when you simply meant 'at least' as an adverb, the sentence might sound overly formal or emphasize the 'bareness' of the amount too much. For instance, '최소한의 노력' (the bare minimum effort) sounds quite different from '최소한 노력을 했다' (I at least made an effort). The former suggests the effort was insufficient or just barely enough, while the latter is a neutral statement about the act of trying.

To truly master 최소, you must understand the landscape of words that surround it. Korean has several ways to express 'minimum' or 'at least,' each with a specific flavor. The most common alternative is 적어도. While '최소' feels mathematical or official, '적어도' feels human and evaluative. If you say '적어도 밥은 먹었어,' you are saying 'At least I ate,' implying that while other things might be bad, this one good thing happened. You wouldn't typically use '최소' in that specific emotional context.

최저 (Lowest): Focuses on the lowest point in a range or record. Used for temperature, rankings, and prices.
최소한도 (Minimum Limit): A more formal version of '최소,' often used in legal or technical documents to define a strict limit.
못해도 (At the very least / Even at the worst): A colloquial expression used when estimating. '못해도 한 시간은 걸려요' (It will take at least an hour, even if things go poorly).

Another interesting comparison is with 최소한의 vs. 최저한의. Both mean 'the minimum,' but '최저한의' is often used in the context of '최저한의 생활' (the minimum standard of living), a social welfare term. If you are talking about the minimum requirements for a job, you might use '최소 자격 요건' (minimum qualification requirements). For learners, the rule of thumb is: use '최소' for numbers and quantities, '최저' for records and rankings, and '적어도' for general conversation where you want to sound more natural and less like a textbook.

비교:
1. 최소 5만 원 (Minimum 50,000 won - Objective)
2. 적어도 5만 원 (At least 50,000 won - Conversational/Subjective)

In academic writing, you might also see the term 극소 (the infinitesimal or the absolute smallest). This is much more extreme than '최소' and is reserved for science or mathematics. On the other end of the spectrum, when you want to say 'no less than' (which is a way of saying 'at least' while emphasizing that the amount is actually quite large), you use the particle '~나/~이나' with the number. For example, '10명이나 왔어요' (As many as 10 people came / No less than 10 people came). This is a great contrast to '최소,' which focuses on the floor, while '~이나' focuses on the surprising height of the number.

How Formal Is It?

재미있는 사실

The character '최' (最) is the same one used in '최고' (choe-go), which means 'the best' or 'the highest.' It's like saying 'the most small' vs 'the most high.'

발음 가이드

UK /tɕʰwe̞.so/

US /tʃweɪ.soʊ/

In Korean, stress is generally even across syllables, but the first syllable '최' (choe) is slightly more emphasized due to the aspirated consonant.

라임이 맞는 단어

최고 (choe-go) 최초 (choe-cho) 해소 (hae-so) 미소 (mi-so) 청소 (cheong-so) 주소 (ju-so) 취소 (chwi-so) 요소 (yo-so)

자주 하는 실수

Pronouncing '최' as 'cho-ee' (two syllables) instead of one.
Confusing the sound with '취' (chwi) in '취소' (cancellation).
Making the 's' in '소' too soft; it should be a clear, unvoiced 's'.
Over-emphasizing the 'o' sound into a long English 'oh'.
Failing to aspirate the 'ch' in '최'.

난이도

독해 2/5

The Hanja characters are common, and the word appears frequently in signs and menus.

쓰기 3/5

Requires understanding of when to use '최소' vs '최소한' and where to place them in a sentence.

말하기 2/5

Pronunciation is straightforward, but natural usage requires practice with particles like '은/는'.

듣기 2/5

Easily recognizable in speech, though it can be confused with '취소' (cancellation) if not careful.

다음에 무엇을 배울까

선수 학습

가장 (most) 작다 (small) 필요하다 (to need) 정도 (about/degree) 숫자 (numbers)

다음에 배울 것

최대 (maximum) 최저 (lowest) 최고 (highest) 한도 (limit) 기준 (standard)

고급

최소화 (minimization) 임금 (wage) 사양 (specifications) 개입 (intervention) 합의 (consensus)

알아야 할 문법

~은/는 (Contrastive Particle)

최소한 10분은 기다려야 해요. (You have to wait at least 10 minutes.)

~라도 (At least / Even if only)

최소한 인사라도 하세요. (At least say hello.)

~부터 (From)

최소 2명부터 예약 가능합니다. (Reservations are possible from at least 2 people.)

~의 (Possessive Particle)

최소한의 예의가 필요합니다. (Minimum courtesy is needed.)

~으로 (Direction/Method)

피해를 최소한으로 줄여야 합니다. (We must reduce damage to a minimum.)

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수준별 예문

최소 한 개 주세요.

Please give me at least one.

최소 (at least) + 한 개 (one item).

최소 10분 기다리세요.

Please wait at least 10 minutes.

최소 + time duration.

학생이 최소 5명 있어요.

There are at least 5 students.

최소 + number + counter (명).

최소 2,000원이에요.

It is at least 2,000 won.

최소 + amount of money.

물을 최소 세 컵 마셔요.

Drink at least three cups of water.

최소 + number + counter (컵).

최소 두 번 읽으세요.

Read it at least twice.

최소 + number + counter (번).

버스가 최소 5분 뒤에 와요.

The bus comes in at least 5 minutes.

최소 + time + 뒤 (after).

최소 사과 세 개가 필요해요.

I need at least three apples.

최소 + noun + number + counter.

하루에 최소 8시간은 자야 해요.

You should sleep at least 8 hours a day.

최소 + time + 은/는 (for emphasis).

이 가방은 최소 5만 원은 할 거예요.

This bag will cost at least 50,000 won.

최소 + money + 은/는 + 할 거예요 (guess).

최소한 일주일에 세 번은 운동해요.

I exercise at least three times a week.

최소한 (at least) as an adverb.

시험 공부를 최소 한 달은 해야 해요.

You have to study for the exam for at least a month.

최소 + duration + 은/는.

여기는 최소 2명부터 예약 가능해요.

Reservations here are possible from at least 2 people.

최소 + number + 부터 (from).

최소한 늦는다고 전화는 해줘.

At least call me to say you're late.

최소한 as an adverb expressing a baseline expectation.

비타민을 최소 매일 하나씩 드세요.

Take at least one vitamin every day.

최소 + frequency + 하나씩 (one by one).

최소 수량을 확인해 보세요.

Please check the minimum quantity.

최소 (noun) + 수량 (quantity).

성공하려면 최소한의 노력은 필요합니다.

To succeed, a minimum effort is necessary.

최소한의 (minimal/minimum) as an adjective.

최소 비용으로 최대 효과를 내고 싶어요.

I want to achieve the maximum effect with minimum cost.

최소 비용 (minimum cost) vs 최대 효과 (maximum effect).

그것은 최소한의 예의도 없는 행동이에요.

That is behavior without even the minimum courtesy.

최소한의 예의 (minimum courtesy).

최소 주문 금액이 2만 원입니다.

The minimum order amount is 20,000 won.

최소 주문 금액 (minimum order amount).

최소한 제가 할 수 있는 일은 다 했어요.

I've done at least everything I could do.

최소한 as an adverb qualifying the whole clause.

최소 인원이 모이지 않아 행사가 취소됐어요.

The event was canceled because the minimum number of people didn't gather.

최소 인원 (minimum number of people).

최소한 며칠 동안은 쉬어야 할 것 같아요.

I think I should rest for at least a few days.

최소한 + duration + 동안은.

이 제품의 최소 보증 기간은 1년입니다.

The minimum warranty period for this product is one year.

최소 보증 기간 (minimum warranty period).

정부는 최소 임금을 인상하기로 결정했다.

The government decided to raise the minimum wage.

최소 임금 (minimum wage) - often '최저 임금' is used too.

우리는 최소한의 장비만 챙겨서 떠났다.

We left with only the minimum equipment.

최소한의 장비 (minimum equipment).

이 문제는 최소 30분은 고민해봐야 합니다.

You should think about this problem for at least 30 minutes.

최소 + time + 은/는 + 고민하다.

최소한의 생활비를 벌기 위해 아르바이트를 해요.

I work part-time to earn minimum living expenses.

최소한의 생활비 (minimum living expenses).

최소한의 개입으로 문제를 해결하려고 노력했다.

They tried to solve the problem with minimum intervention.

최소한의 개입 (minimum intervention).

이 요건은 최소한의 자격 기준일 뿐입니다.

These requirements are just the minimum qualification standards.

최소한의 자격 기준 (minimum qualification standards).

최소한의 정보만 제공하는 것이 안전합니다.

It is safe to provide only the minimum information.

최소한의 정보 (minimum information).

그 영화는 최소한의 대사로 감정을 전달한다.

That movie conveys emotions with minimal dialogue.

최소한의 대사 (minimal dialogue).

민주주의는 최소한의 사회적 합의가 필요하다.

Democracy requires a minimum social consensus.

최소한의 사회적 합의 (minimum social consensus).

최소 침습 수술은 회복 기간이 매우 짧습니다.

Minimally invasive surgery has a very short recovery period.

최소 침습 수술 (minimally invasive surgery).

최소한의 도덕적 양심도 없는 사람 같군요.

You seem like a person without even the minimum moral conscience.

최소한의 도덕적 양심 (minimum moral conscience).

최소한의 가능성이라도 있다면 포기하지 않겠다.

If there is even the slightest possibility, I will not give up.

최소한의 가능성 (minimum/slightest possibility).

이 설계는 최소한의 공간 낭비도 허용하지 않는다.

This design does not allow for even the minimum waste of space.

최소한의 공간 낭비 (minimum waste of space).

최소한의 증거도 없이 사람을 의심하면 안 된다.

You shouldn't suspect someone without even minimum evidence.

최소한의 증거 (minimum evidence).

그는 최소한의 말로 최대한의 의미를 담아냈다.

He captured the maximum meaning with minimum words.

최소한의 말 (minimum words) vs 최대한의 의미 (maximum meaning).

최소한의 학문적 엄밀성은 지켜야 합니다.

Minimum academic rigor must be maintained.

최소한의 학문적 엄밀성 (minimum academic rigor).

최소 작용의 원리는 물리학의 핵심적인 개념이다.

The principle of least action is a core concept in physics.

최소 작용의 원리 (Principle of least action).

최소 자승법을 사용하여 데이터의 오차를 줄였다.

The error in the data was reduced using the least squares method.

최소 자승법 (Least squares method).

법률은 최소한의 도덕이라는 말이 있습니다.

There is a saying that law is the minimum of morality.

Philosophical usage of '최소한의 도덕'.

그 작가는 최소한의 묘사로 인물의 내면을 꿰뚫는다.

The author pierces through the character's inner self with minimal description.

Literary usage of '최소한의 묘사'.

최소한의 사회적 안전망 확충이 시급한 과제다.

Expanding the minimum social safety net is an urgent task.

최소한의 사회적 안전망 (minimum social safety net).

최소한의 개입 원칙은 행정법의 중요한 원리다.

The principle of minimum intervention is an important principle of administrative law.

최소한의 개입 원칙 (Principle of minimum intervention).

최소한의 품위를 유지하는 것이 인간의 마지막 도리다.

Maintaining minimum dignity is the final duty of a human being.

최소한의 품위 (minimum dignity).

최소한의 생물학적 생존을 넘어 삶의 질을 논해야 한다.

We must discuss the quality of life beyond minimum biological survival.

최소한의 생물학적 생존 (minimum biological survival).

자주 쓰는 조합

최소 수량

최소 비용

최소 인원

최소 시간

최소 금액

최소 단위

최소 점수

최소 폭

최소 사양

최소 기준

자주 쓰는 구문

최소한의 예의

— The basic level of politeness expected in social interactions.

인사는 최소한의 예의입니다.

최소 주문

— The minimum order required, usually in restaurants or for delivery.

여기는 최소 주문이 2인분부터예요.

최소 임금

— The minimum wage set by law.

내년에 최소 임금이 오른대요.

최소한으로

— To a minimum or as little as possible.

짐을 최소한으로 줄이세요.

최소 사양

— Minimum specifications required for software or hardware.

컴퓨터가 최소 사양에 못 미쳐요.

최소한의 도리

— The minimum moral duty or obligation one should fulfill.

부모님께 연락하는 것이 최소한의 도리다.

최소한의 장치

— The minimum measures or devices needed for safety or function.

안전을 위한 최소한의 장치를 마련했다.

최소한의 노력

— The bare minimum effort put into a task.

최소한의 노력도 하지 않으면 성공할 수 없다.

최소한의 생활

— A minimum standard of living or basic survival.

최소한의 생활을 보장해야 한다.

최소한의 정보

— The bare minimum information required for a process.

최소한의 정보만 입력해 주세요.

자주 혼동되는 단어

최소 vs 취소 (chwi-so)

Means 'cancellation'. The first vowel is different (oe vs wi).

최소 vs 최고 (choe-go)

Means 'the best' or 'maximum'. It is the opposite of '최소' in terms of value.

최소 vs 최저 (choe-jeo)

Means 'lowest'. Used for levels and records, while '최소' is for amounts.

관용어 및 표현

"최소한의 예의도 없다"

— To be extremely rude or lack basic manners.

그 사람은 최소한의 예의도 없어요.

Informal/Neutral

"최소한의 도리도 못 하다"

— To fail to perform even the most basic duty expected of a person.

자식으로서 최소한의 도리도 못 했어요.

Neutral/Emotional

"최소한으로 줄이다"

— To cut something down to the absolute bare essentials.

지출을 최소한으로 줄여야 해요.

Neutral

"최소한의 인간성"

— The bare minimum of humanity or decency.

그건 최소한의 인간성도 버린 짓이다.

Formal/Strong

"최소한의 밥값은 하다"

— Literally 'to do at least the price of one's meal,' meaning to do enough work to justify being there.

회사에서 최소한의 밥값은 해야지.

Informal/Slangy

"최소한의 성의"

— A minimum show of sincerity or effort.

최소한의 성의라도 보여주세요.

Neutral

"최소한의 자존심"

— The bare minimum of self-respect one maintains.

최소한의 자존심은 지키고 싶다.

Neutral

"최소한의 방어"

— The minimum defense or protection against something.

최소한의 방어 수단은 필요합니다.

Neutral

"최소한의 공정성"

— The minimum level of fairness required in a situation.

최소한의 공정성은 보장되어야 한다.

Formal

"최소한의 양심"

— The bare minimum of conscience.

최소한의 양심이 있다면 그럴 수 없다.

Neutral/Strong

혼동하기 쉬운

최소 vs 최저

Both mean 'lowest' or 'minimum'.

Use '최저' for levels like temperature or ranking. Use '최소' for quantities like numbers or amounts.

최저 기온 (lowest temp) vs 최소 수량 (min quantity).

최소 vs 적어도

Both translate to 'at least' in English.

'적어도' is more conversational and subjective. '최소' is more objective and used in business or math.

적어도 밥은 먹어 (At least eat) vs 최소 3명 필요 (Min 3 people needed).

최소 vs 기껏해야

Both deal with small limits.

'기껏해야' means 'at most' or 'only,' suggesting the amount is small. '최소' means 'at least,' setting the floor.

기껏해야 5명 왔어 (Only 5 came) vs 최소 5명 와야 돼 (At least 5 must come).

최소 vs 못해도

Both mean 'at least' in estimations.

'못해도' is more colloquial and implies 'even at the worst case.' '최소' is more neutral.

못해도 1시간 걸려 (At least/worst case 1 hour).

최소 vs 작다

Both relate to smallness.

'작다' is an adjective meaning 'small' in size. '최소' is a superlative noun/adverb meaning 'the smallest amount.'

작은 사과 (small apple) vs 최소 한 개 (at least one).

문장 패턴

최소 [Number] [Counter] 주세요.

최소 한 개 주세요.

최소한 [Number] [Counter]은/는 [Verb]아야/어야 해요.

최소한 8시간은 자야 해요.

최소한의 [Noun]은/는 필요합니다.

최소한의 노력은 필요합니다.

최소 [Noun]이/가 [Number] [Counter]입니다.

최소 주문 금액이 2만 원입니다.

[Noun]을/를 최소한으로 [Verb]다.

비용을 최소한으로 줄이다.

최소한의 [Noun]도 없이 [Verb].

최소한의 증거도 없이 의심하다.

최소한 ~라도 해야 한다.

최소한 연락이라도 해야 한다.

최소 [Noun]의 원리/법칙.

최소 작용의 원리.

어휘 가족

명사

최소 (minimum)

최소한 (at least)

최소량 (minimum amount)

최소치 (minimum value)

최소한도 (minimum limit)

동사

최소화하다 (to minimize)

형용사

최소한의 (minimal/minimum)

사용법

frequency

Extremely high in business, shopping, and setting rules.

자주 하는 실수

Using '최소' for temperature. → 최저 기온
'최소' is for quantity, '최저' is for levels/records.
Saying '사과 3개 최소' instead of '최소 사과 3개'. → 최소 사과 3개
The modifier must come before the noun/number.
Confusing '최소' (minimum) with '취소' (cancel). → 최소
Check the vowels carefully; 'oe' vs 'wi'.
Using '최소' to mean 'at most'. → 최대 / 기껏해야
'최소' always refers to the bottom limit.
Using '최소' in emotional contexts like 'At least you're safe'. → 적어도 / 그래도
'최소' is too mathematical for emotional relief.

팁

Placement is Key

Always put '최소' before the number. '최소 5개' is correct, not '5개 최소'.

Subjective vs Objective

Use '적어도' when you want to sound sympathetic or conversational. Use '최소' when you are stating a rule or a fact.

Particle Pairing

Pair '최소' with the particle '은/는' for a more natural emphasis on the limit.

Learn the Antonym

Always learn '최소' (minimum) with '최대' (maximum) to describe ranges easily.

Moral Baselines

Use '최소한의 도리' or '최소한의 예의' to discuss basic human expectations in Korea.

MOQ

In trade, '최소 주문 수량' is the standard term for Minimum Order Quantity.

System Requirements

Look for '최소 사양' on software boxes to see if your computer can run the program.

Aspiration

Make sure to puff out air when saying the 'ch' in '최소' to distinguish it from other sounds.

Adjective Form

Use '최소한의' when you need an adjective to modify a noun (e.g., minimal effort).

Delivery Minimums

Always check the '최소 주문 금액' before ordering food in Korea to avoid surprises.

암기하기

기억법

Think of 'Choe' as 'Top' and 'So' as 'Small'. So 'Choe-So' is the 'Top Smallest' or the 'Absolute Minimum'.

시각적 연상

Imagine a floor or a baseline. '최소' is the line that something cannot fall below.

Word Web

최소 (Minimum) 최대 (Maximum) 최소한 (At least) 최소한의 예의 (Min. courtesy) 최소 임금 (Min. wage) 최소 수량 (Min. quantity) 최소화 (Minimization) 적어도 (At least)

챌린지

Try to use '최소' three times today: once when talking about time, once when talking about money, and once when talking about a requirement.

어원

The word is of Sino-Korean origin, composed of two Hanja characters. It has been used in the Korean language for centuries to denote mathematical and quantitative minimums.

원래 의미: 最 (Choe) means 'most' or 'extreme,' and 少 (So) means 'small' or 'few.' Together, they signify 'the smallest' or 'the minimum.'

Sino-Korean (Hanja)

문화적 맥락

Be careful when telling someone they lack '최소한의 예의' as it is a very strong personal criticism.

In English, 'at least' can sometimes sound positive ('at least you tried'), but in Korean, '최소' is often more objective or demanding of a requirement.

The 'Minimum Wage' (최저 임금) debates in Korean news. Minimalism (미니멀리즘) trends in Korean interior design often use the term '최소한의 것'. K-Dramas often feature characters arguing about '최소한의 예의' (minimum courtesy).

실생활에서 연습하기

실제 사용 상황

Shopping & Delivery

최소 주문 금액이 얼마예요? (What is the minimum order amount?)
최소 수량은 5개입니다. (The minimum quantity is 5.)
배달 최소 금액을 확인하세요. (Check the minimum delivery amount.)
최소한 3일은 걸려요. (It takes at least 3 days.)

Health & Fitness

하루 최소 8시간 자요. (Sleep at least 8 hours a day.)
최소 주 3회 운동하세요. (Exercise at least 3 times a week.)
물을 최소 2리터 마시세요. (Drink at least 2 liters of water.)
최소 목표를 정하세요. (Set a minimum goal.)

Business & Planning

최소 비용으로 준비합시다. (Let's prepare with minimum cost.)
최소 인원이 몇 명이죠? (What is the minimum number of people?)
최소 제작 기간은 일주일입니다. (Minimum production period is one week.)
최소한의 리스크로 진행합시다. (Let's proceed with minimum risk.)

Social Situations

최소한의 예의를 지켜주세요. (Please show minimum courtesy.)
최소한 늦는다고 말해줘. (At least tell me you're late.)
최소한의 성의는 보여야지. (You should show at least some sincerity.)
최소한 인사라도 하세요. (At least say hello.)

Academic & Exams

합격 최소 점수가 몇 점이에요? (What is the minimum passing score?)
최소 한 달은 공부해야 해요. (You need to study for at least a month.)
최소 5페이지를 써야 합니다. (You must write at least 5 pages.)
최소 출석 일수를 확인하세요. (Check the minimum attendance days.)

대화 시작하기

"하루에 최소한 몇 시간 정도 주무세요? (At least how many hours do you sleep a day?)"

"한국어를 배우는 데 최소한 얼마나 걸릴까요? (At least how long will it take to learn Korean?)"

"여행할 때 최소한의 짐만 챙기시는 편인가요? (Do you tend to pack only the minimum amount of luggage when traveling?)"

"이 근처에서 배달 시키려면 최소 주문 금액이 얼마예요? (What's the minimum order amount for delivery around here?)"

"친구 사이에 최소한의 예의는 무엇이라고 생각하세요? (What do you think is the minimum courtesy between friends?)"

일기 주제

내가 매일 최소한으로 꼭 해야 하는 일 세 가지는 무엇인가? (What are the three things I must do at a minimum every day?)

최소한의 비용으로 가장 행복했던 기억에 대해 써보세요. (Write about your happiest memory that cost the minimum amount of money.)

내가 생각하는 '최소한의 예의'에 대해 정의해 보세요. (Try to define what you consider 'minimum courtesy.')

미니멀리즘(최소한의 삶)에 대해 어떻게 생각하는지 적어보세요. (Write about what you think of minimalism/minimum living.)

목표를 달성하기 위해 필요한 최소한의 노력은 무엇인가? (What is the minimum effort needed to achieve your goal?)

자주 묻는 질문

10 질문

Use '최소' as a noun modifier (e.g., '최소 수량'). Use '최소한' as an adverb before a number or verb (e.g., '최소한 3개'). In casual speech, '최소' is often used as a shorthand for '최소한'.

It is neutral but leans towards formal or objective contexts. In very casual speech with friends, people often use '적어도' or '못해도' instead.

Yes, but you must use the counter '명' or '분'. For example, '최소 10명' (at least 10 people). You can also say '최소 인원' (minimum number of people).

'최저' is for levels/records (lowest temperature, lowest score). '최소' is for quantities/amounts (minimum quantity, minimum cost).

You use the verb '최소화하다'. For example, '비용을 최소화하다' (to minimize costs).

Yes, in Korean, the modifier '최소' or '최소한' almost always precedes the number or the noun it is qualifying.

Yes, it is very common. It refers to the basic level of manners required in society. Using it shows you understand Korean social values.

No, '최소' always means 'at least' or 'minimum.' '최대' or '기껏해야' is used for 'at most'.

Both '최소 임금' and '최저 임금' are used, but '최저 임금' is the official legal term used by the government.

It sounds a bit unnatural. Better to say '그게 최소한이에요' (That is the minimum) or '그게 최소 수량이에요' (That is the minimum quantity).

무료 가입하고 팁과 노트 보기