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기대감

A2 noun 9 min read

기대감

gidaegam

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips 기대감 in 30 Seconds

Explanation 기대감 in your Level:

At the A1 level, you can think of '기대감' as a special way to say 'I am excited.' While you might first learn '좋아요' (I like it) or '기대해요' (I expect), '기대감' is a noun that describes that 'feeling' inside you. Imagine you are waiting for a birthday party. That happy feeling you have while waiting is '기대감.' In simple sentences, you can say '기대감이 있어요' (I have anticipation). It is important to know that this word is for good things. You don't use it for scary things like exams or shots at the doctor. Just remember: Happy waiting = 기대감. You might see this word on posters for new movies or cartoons. It helps you express that you are looking forward to something more than just saying 'I wait.' It is a 'big' word for a beginner, but using it will make you sound very smart! Try to use it with '커요' (is big) to say you are very excited: '기대감이 커요!'

At the A2 level, you should start using '기대감' to describe your feelings about specific events. You can use the pattern '[Event] + 에 대한 기대감' which means 'anticipation for [Event].' For example, '여행에 대한 기대감' (anticipation for the trip). This is the level where you move beyond simple verbs and start using nouns to describe complex emotions. You will often hear this word in weather reports before a holiday or in advertisements for new products. It's a great word to use when you want to explain *why* you are happy. Instead of just saying 'I'm happy,' you can say 'Because I have anticipation for tomorrow.' You should also notice that it is a noun, so it needs particles like '이/가' or '을/를.' Practice saying '기대감을 느껴요' (I feel anticipation) or '기대감이 생겼어요' (Anticipation has arisen). This shows you understand how feelings can grow or change over time.

At the B1 level, '기대감' becomes a useful tool for discussing social trends and general sentiments. You will see it frequently in news articles and social media. At this stage, you should understand that '기대감' isn't just a personal feeling; it can be a collective one. For instance, '시장 기대감' (market anticipation) or '대중의 기대감' (the public's anticipation). You can use it to talk about movies, technology, or even politics. You should also start distinguishing it from '기대' (expectation). Remember that '기대' can be a burden or a standard, while '기대감' is the emotional atmosphere. You might use verbs like '고조되다' (to be heightened) or '반영하다' (to reflect). For example, '주가에는 기대감이 반영되어 있다' (The stock price reflects the anticipation). This level requires you to use the word in more abstract contexts, moving away from just your personal feelings to the feelings of a group or a whole society.

At the B2 level, you can use '기대감' to analyze situations and express nuanced opinions. You should be comfortable using it in formal writing and debates. For example, you might discuss how '과도한 기대감' (excessive anticipation) can lead to '실망' (disappointment). You can use it to describe the psychological state of characters in a book or people in a historical event. At this level, you should be able to collocate it with sophisticated verbs like '부응하다' (to live up to), although '기대' is more common there, '기대감에 부응하다' is sometimes used to mean meeting the emotional hopes of people. You should also be able to use it in the negative by discussing the '부재' (absence) of anticipation. For instance, '신작에 대한 기대감이 예전만 못하다' (Anticipation for the new work is not what it used to be). This shows a high level of control over the word's connotation and its role in expressing comparative emotional states.

At the C1 level, '기대감' is used to explore deep psychological and philosophical themes. You will encounter it in academic papers, high-level literature, and complex editorials. You should understand its role in '희망 고문' (hope torture) or how '기대감' acts as a catalyst for social change. You can use it to describe the subtle shift in a nation's mood or the underlying tension in a narrative. At this level, you should be familiar with its use in economic theories, such as how '소비자 기대감' (consumer anticipation) influences spending patterns. You can use complex sentence structures like '기대감이 무색하게도' (to the point where the anticipation was put to shame) to describe a situation where the outcome was much worse than expected. Your usage should reflect an understanding of the word's power to influence behavior and perception, not just as a static feeling but as a dynamic force in human interaction and decision-making.

At the C2 level, your mastery of '기대감' allows you to use it with absolute precision and stylistic flair. You can use it to discuss the ontological nature of human desire or the phenomenological experience of waiting. You might use it in a speech to inspire a large audience, carefully balancing it with words like '염원' (earnest wish) or '갈망' (longing) to create a specific rhetorical effect. You understand the historical evolution of the word and how its usage in modern media differs from classical literature. You can critique how '기대감' is manufactured by marketing departments and its impact on modern psychology. Your writing uses '기대감' not just as a noun, but as a pivot point for complex arguments about future-oriented emotions. You can effortlessly switch between its professional, economic, poetic, and colloquial registers, knowing exactly which particle or verb pairing will evoke the precise shade of meaning you intend.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

기대감 in 30 Seconds

기대감 means the 'feeling of anticipation' for a positive future event.
It is a noun often used with verbs like '커지다' (grow) or '높다' (high).
Unlike '기대', it focuses on the internal emotion rather than just the fact of expecting.
It is common in economic news, entertainment buzz, and personal daily planning.

The Korean word 기대감 (Gidaegam) is a multifaceted noun that captures the psychological and emotional state of looking forward to a future event with positive interest or hope. To understand this word deeply, one must look at its morphological roots. It is composed of three Hanja characters: Gi (期 - to expect or a period), Dae (待 - to wait), and Gam (感 - feeling or sense). While the simpler word '기대' (gidae) refers to the act of expectation itself, adding '감' transforms it into the subjective 'feeling' or 'sense' of that expectation. This distinction is crucial in Korean because it emphasizes the internal emotional atmosphere of the individual or a group rather than just the logical prediction of an outcome.

Emotional Nuance: Unlike a neutral prediction, 기대감 implies a heart-fluttering or hopeful state. It is the buzz in the air before a concert starts, the excitement a child feels on Christmas Eve, or the optimistic sentiment investors feel before a major product launch. It is inherently positive or at least charged with significant interest.
Social and Economic Contexts: In Korean society, this word is frequently used in news headlines and professional settings. For instance, when a new smartphone is about to be released, journalists will write about the 'market anticipation' (시장 기대감). It describes a collective mood. If a famous director announces a new movie, the public's 'level of anticipation' (기대감의 수위) becomes a topic of discussion.

새로운 프로젝트를 시작하면서 팀원들 사이에 기대감이 가득했다.
— Translation: As we started the new project, the team members were filled with a sense of anticipation.

When using this word, Koreans often pair it with verbs like '높이다' (to raise), '고조되다' (to be heightened), or '부풀다' (to swell). For example, if you say your anticipation is 'swelling' (기대감이 부풀어 오르다), it paints a vivid picture of your heart expanding with hope. This word is less about the 'what' and more about the 'how it feels.' If you expect a package, that is '기대.' If the thought of that package makes you happy and restless, that is '기대감.'

팬들은 가수의 컴백 소식에 큰 기대감을 나타냈다.
— Translation: Fans showed great anticipation at the news of the singer's comeback.

Furthermore, '기대감' can be used in negative contexts only if the 'lack' of it is being discussed. For instance, '기대감이 전혀 없다' (There is no sense of anticipation at all) indicates a state of disappointment or boredom. It is a powerful tool for expressing the collective psyche of a group, making it a staple in marketing, psychology, and daily conversation about upcoming events like vacations, holidays, and meetings.

Mastering the usage of 기대감 involves understanding its grammatical placement as a noun and the specific particles that typically follow it. Most commonly, it acts as the subject or object of a sentence. Because it represents a 'feeling,' it often interacts with verbs of perception, increase/decrease, or existence.

The 'Subject' Pattern (기대감이 ...): When '기대감' is the subject, it is usually followed by adjectives like 크다 (to be big), 높다 (to be high), or verbs like 생기다 (to be formed/arise). Example: '내일 여행에 대한 기대감이 크다' (The anticipation for tomorrow's trip is great).
The 'Object' Pattern (...을/를 갖다/표하다): When you or someone else 'has' or 'expresses' anticipation, it becomes the object. Common verbs include 갖다 (to have), 가지다 (to possess), or 나타내다 (to show/express). Example: '사람들은 변화에 대한 기대감을 가졌다' (People had a sense of anticipation regarding the change).

그 영화의 예고편은 관객들의 기대감을 한층 높여 주었다.
— Translation: The trailer of that movie further raised the audience's sense of anticipation.

A very common construction is '[Noun/Action] + 에 대한 기대감.' This translates to 'anticipation regarding [Noun/Action].' If you want to use a verb, you must change it to a noun form using ~는 것 or ~기. For example, '합격할 것이라는 기대감' (The anticipation that I will pass). This allows you to link complex thoughts to the feeling of expectation.

우리는 성공에 대한 기대감으로 밤을 지새웠다.
— Translation: We stayed up all night with a sense of anticipation for success.

In formal settings, such as business presentations, you might hear '기대감을 고취시키다' (to inspire/encourage anticipation). This is used when a leader wants to motivate a team. In casual settings, you might simply say '기대감이 뿜뿜!' (Slang: Anticipation is bursting!). Understanding these variations helps you navigate different social strata in Korea.

You will encounter 기대감 in various domains of Korean life, ranging from the high-stakes world of finance to the emotional depth of K-Dramas. It is a word that bridges the gap between cold logic and warm emotion. Here are the primary places where this word is a frequent guest.

News and Economy: Turn on any Korean news channel like YTN or KBS, and you will hear '기대감' used to describe market trends. '금리 인하에 대한 시장의 기대감' (Market anticipation regarding interest rate cuts). In this context, it refers to the collective belief of investors that something beneficial will happen, which in turn affects stock prices.
Entertainment and Media: Before a blockbuster movie or a highly anticipated K-Drama episode airs, the term is everywhere. '역대급 기대감' (All-time high anticipation) is a common phrase used in promotional materials to build hype. Variety shows like 'Running Man' or 'Knowing Bros' often use it when introducing a special guest.

이번 신곡은 티저 영상만으로도 팬들의 기대감을 폭발시켰다.
— Translation: This new song exploded fans' anticipation with just the teaser video.

In daily life, friends use it when planning a trip or a dinner. If a friend says, '그 식당 진짜 맛있대!' (I heard that restaurant is really good!), you might reply, '오, 기대감이 생기는데?' (Oh, I'm starting to feel some anticipation!). It adds a layer of emotional engagement to the conversation that the word '기대' doesn't quite reach.

백신 보급으로 일상 회복에 대한 기대감이 높아지고 있습니다.
— Translation: With the distribution of vaccines, anticipation for a return to daily life is rising.

Lastly, look for it in literature and essays. Writers use '기대감' to describe the internal world of a protagonist. It is the feeling of standing on the threshold of something new—a mixture of joy, curiosity, and sometimes a tiny bit of nervous energy. It is a very 'human' word that captures the essence of looking forward.

While 기대감 is a common word, learners often trip over its specific nuances and grammatical constraints. Because it is a composite word, using it interchangeably with its root '기대' can sometimes result in sentences that sound slightly 'off' to a native speaker.

Confusion with '기대' (Expectation): The most common mistake is using '기대감' when you mean 'expectations' in the sense of standards. For example, 'My parents have high expectations for me.' In Korean, you should use '기대' here (부모님은 나에게 기대가 크다). If you use '기대감,' it sounds like your parents have a 'feeling of anticipation' about you, which isn't exactly the same as having high standards for your performance.
Using with Negative Outcomes: '기대감' is almost exclusively for positive or interesting things. You wouldn't say 'I have anticipation for the car accident' or 'anticipation for the war.' For negative future events, use words like '우려' (worry/concern) or '걱정' (worry). Using '기대감' for a disaster would sound sarcastic or extremely strange.

❌ 부모님의 기대감이 부담스러워요. (Awkward)
✅ 부모님의 기대가 부담스러워요. (Natural)
— Note: Use '기대' for standards/pressure, '기대감' for the emotional feeling of looking forward.

Another error is the incorrect use of particles. Because it's a feeling, people often want to say '기대감을 느껴요' (I feel the sense of anticipation). While grammatically correct, native speakers more often say '기대감이 커요' (Anticipation is big) or '기대감을 갖고 있어요' (I have anticipation). '느끼다' is usually reserved for more sensory or internal psychological states like '행복을 느껴요' (I feel happiness).

❌ 시험 결과에 대한 기대감이 나빠요. (Incorrect)
✅ 시험 결과에 대한 걱정이 커요. (Correct for negative contexts)

Lastly, remember that '기대감' is a noun. Learners often forget to add the necessary particles (~이/가, ~을/를) or linking verbs. Always treat it as a distinct object or subject within your sentence structure to ensure clarity and natural flow.

To truly master Korean, you need to know which 'flavor' of anticipation you are expressing. 기대감 has several cousins that share its neighborhood but live in different houses. Understanding these synonyms will help you choose the perfect word for every situation.

설렘 (Seollem) vs. 기대감: '설렘' is the 'fluttering' or 'butterflies in the stomach' feeling. It is more romantic and visceral than '기대감.' While '기대감' can be professional (market anticipation), '설렘' is almost always personal. You feel '설렘' before a first date; you feel '기대감' before a new product launch.
고대 (Godae) vs. 기대감: '고대' (苦待) literally means 'to wait painfully' or to wait very eagerly. It is much stronger than '기대감.' It implies that you are waiting so hard it's almost difficult. You use this for things you have wanted for a very long time, like '통일' (reunification) or a long-lost friend's return.

비교:
1. 여행에 대한 기대감 (General anticipation)
2. 첫 데이트의 설렘 (Heart-fluttering excitement)
3. 소식을 고대함 (Waiting very eagerly)

Another alternative is '희망' (hope). While '기대감' is looking forward to something specific that is likely to happen, '희망' is a broader desire for something good to occur, even if it's uncertain. You might have '기대감' for a movie you know is coming out, but '희망' that the world becomes a better place.

관객들은 배우의 연기 변신에 대해 큰 기대감을 보였다.
— Translation: The audience showed great anticipation for the actor's acting transformation.

In formal reports, you might see '전망' (outlook/prospect). While '기대감' is the feeling people have about the future, '전망' is the objective analysis of what will happen. '기대감' is in the heart; '전망' is in the data. Knowing when to switch between these words will make your Korean sound incredibly natural and precise.

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

The character 'Gam' (感) is found in many Korean words describing emotions, like 'haengbok-gam' (feeling of happiness) or 'uul-gam' (feeling of depression). It acts like the English suffix '-ness' or 'sense of...'.

Pronunciation Guide

UK ɡi.dɛ̝.ɡam

US ɡi.dɛ̝.ɡam

The stress is even across all three syllables, as is typical in Korean.

Rhymes With

자신감 (jasingam - confidence) 안도감 (andogam - sense of relief) 우월감 (uwolgam - superiority complex) 친밀감 (chinmilgam - sense of intimacy) 소속감 (sosokgam - sense of belonging) 불안감 (burangam - sense of anxiety) 거부감 (geobugam - sense of rejection/resistance) 만족감 (manjokgam - sense of satisfaction)

Common Errors

Pronouncing 'dae' as 'die'. It should be more like 'day' without the 'y' sound.
Making the 'g' in 'gam' too aspirated. It should be a plain, unaspirated 'g'.
Shortening the 'm' sound at the end. Make sure the 'm' is clearly closed.
Confusing the 'ae' in 'dae' with 'e'. They are very similar in modern Seoul Korean but 'ae' is slightly more open.
Pronouncing 'gi' as 'jee'. It must be a hard 'g' as in 'gift'.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 2/5

Easy to recognize in news and posters once you know the Hanja root.

Writing 3/5

Requires understanding of noun-particle-verb pairings like ~에 대한 ... 이/가 크다.

Speaking 2/5

Pronunciation is straightforward, and it's a very useful word for expressing excitement.

Listening 2/5

Commonly heard in media and daily speech; the 'gam' ending is distinctive.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

기대 (expectation) 느낌 (feeling) 마음 (heart/mind) 기다리다 (to wait) 크다 (to be big)

Learn Next

설렘 (fluttering excitement) 실망 (disappointment) 우려 (concern) 전망 (outlook) 반영하다 (to reflect)

Advanced

학수고대 (waiting eagerly) 고취시키다 (to inspire) 임계점 (critical point) 변곡점 (inflection point) 정서 (sentiment)

Grammar to Know

Noun + 에 대한 (Regarding / About)

성공에 대한 기대감 (Anticipation for success)

~는 것 (Nounizing a verb)

합격하는 것에 대한 기대감 (Anticipation of passing)

~이/가 되다 (To become)

기대감이 현실이 되다 (Anticipation becomes reality)

~으로 가득하다 (To be full of...)

기대감으로 가득한 얼굴 (A face full of anticipation)

~을/를 앞두고 (Ahead of / Before)

개학을 앞두고 기대감이 커졌다 (Anticipation grew ahead of the start of school)

Examples by Level

내일 파티에 대한 기대감이 커요.

Anticipation for tomorrow's party is big.

기대감 (noun) + 이 (subject particle) + 커요 (is big).

새 장난감에 기대감이 있어요.

I have anticipation for the new toy.

기대감 + 이 + 있어요 (there is/I have).

우리는 여행 기대감이 가득해요.

We are full of anticipation for the trip.

가득해요 means 'to be full of'.

기대감이 조금 있어요.

I have a little anticipation.

조금 means 'a little'.

선물에 대한 기대감이 높아요.

Anticipation for the gift is high.

높아요 means 'is high'.

영화 기대감이 정말 커요!

The movie anticipation is really big!

정말 is an intensifier meaning 'really'.

맛있는 음식에 기대감이 생겨요.

Anticipation for delicious food arises.

생겨요 means 'to arise' or 'to be formed'.

친구를 만날 기대감이 있어요.

I have anticipation to meet my friend.

만날 is the future modifier of '만나다' (to meet).

주말 여행에 대한 기대감으로 잠이 안 와요.

I can't sleep because of the anticipation for the weekend trip.

~으로 indicates a cause or reason.

새로운 학교 생활에 대한 기대감이 생겼어요.

A sense of anticipation for new school life has arisen.

생겼어요 is the past tense of 생기다.

그 가수의 콘서트는 기대감이 아주 높아요.

Anticipation for that singer's concert is very high.

아주 means 'very'.

우리는 우승에 대한 기대감을 가지고 있어요.

We have anticipation for winning (the championship).

가지고 있어요 means 'possessing' or 'having'.

예고편을 보니 영화에 대한 기대감이 커지네요.

Watching the trailer, my anticipation for the movie is growing.

~지네요 indicates a change in state.

생일 선물에 대한 기대감을 감출 수 없어요.

I can't hide my anticipation for the birthday gift.

감출 수 없어요 means 'cannot hide'.

방학에 대한 기대감이 학교 전체에 가득해요.

Anticipation for vacation is full throughout the school.

전체에 means 'in the whole (place)'.

맛있는 저녁 식사에 대한 기대감이 높습니다.

Anticipation for a delicious dinner is high.

높습니다 is the formal polite version of 높아요.

신제품 출시에 대한 시장의 기대감이 커지고 있습니다.

Market anticipation for the new product launch is growing.

시장의 (market's) modifies 기대감.

감독의 신작 소식에 팬들의 기대감이 고조되었다.

Fans' anticipation was heightened at the news of the director's new work.

고조되었다 means 'was heightened' or 'reached a climax'.

그는 성공에 대한 기대감으로 가득 차 보였다.

He looked full of anticipation for success.

가득 차 보였다 means 'looked full of'.

이번 경기는 양 팀 팬들의 기대감이 대단합니다.

The anticipation from fans of both teams for this match is great.

대단합니다 means 'is great' or 'is incredible'.

결과에 대한 기대감이 너무 크면 실망도 클 수 있어요.

If anticipation for the result is too big, disappointment can also be big.

~면 (if) creates a conditional sentence.

정부는 경제 회복에 대한 기대감을 나타냈습니다.

The government expressed anticipation for economic recovery.

나타냈습니다 means 'expressed' or 'showed'.

사람들은 새로운 기술에 대한 기대감을 갖고 있습니다.

People have anticipation for new technology.

갖고 있습니다 is a common way to say 'to have'.

기대감이 전혀 없는 상태에서 영화를 봤는데 정말 좋았어요.

I watched the movie with no anticipation at all, and it was really good.

전혀 없는 상태 means 'a state of having none at all'.

기업의 실적 발표를 앞두고 투자자들의 기대감이 높아졌다.

Investors' anticipation rose ahead of the company's earnings announcement.

~을 앞두고 means 'ahead of' or 'with (an event) approaching'.

이번 정책이 실효성이 있을지에 대한 기대감이 엇갈리고 있다.

Anticipation regarding whether this policy will be effective is mixed.

엇갈리고 있다 means 'to be mixed' or 'to diverge'.

그 배우의 연기 변신에 대한 기대감이 한층 고조되고 있습니다.

Anticipation for the actor's acting transformation is being further heightened.

한층 means 'even more' or 'further'.

과도한 기대감은 때로 객관적인 판단을 흐리게 만듭니다.

Excessive anticipation sometimes clouds objective judgment.

흐리게 만듭니다 means 'makes (something) blurry/cloudy'.

우리는 이번 협상이 평화를 가져올 것이라는 기대감을 가졌습니다.

We had the anticipation that this negotiation would bring peace.

~라는 기대감 means 'the anticipation that...'.

소비자들의 기대감을 충족시키기 위해 기업들은 노력하고 있다.

Companies are striving to satisfy consumers' sense of anticipation.

충족시키기 위해 means 'in order to satisfy'.

기대감이 실망으로 바뀌는 순간은 언제나 고통스럽다.

The moment anticipation turns into disappointment is always painful.

~로 바뀌는 means 'changing into'.

그의 복귀 소식은 업계 전체의 기대감을 불러일으켰다.

The news of his return sparked anticipation throughout the industry.

불러일으켰다 means 'sparked' or 'aroused'.

예술적 성취에 대한 기대감이 창작의 원동력이 되기도 한다.

Anticipation of artistic achievement sometimes becomes the driving force of creation.

원동력 means 'driving force' or 'impetus'.

사회적 변화에 대한 막연한 기대감만으로는 부족하다.

Vague anticipation of social change alone is not enough.

막연한 means 'vague' or 'hazy'.

기대감이 무색하게도 결과는 참담한 실패로 끝났다.

To the point where the anticipation was put to shame, the result ended in a disastrous failure.

무색하게도 is an idiom meaning 'making (something) lose color/shameful'.

대중의 기대감을 교묘하게 이용하는 마케팅 전략이 늘고 있다.

Marketing strategies that subtly exploit the public's anticipation are increasing.

교묘하게 means 'artfully' or 'subtly/cunningly'.

작가는 소설 속에서 인물들의 미묘한 기대감을 섬세하게 묘사했다.

The author delicately described the subtle anticipation of the characters in the novel.

섬세하게 묘사했다 means 'described delicately'.

우리는 미래에 대한 기대감과 불안감을 동시에 느끼며 살아간다.

We live our lives feeling both anticipation and anxiety for the future at the same time.

동시에 means 'simultaneously'.

그 정책은 국민들의 기대감에 부응하지 못하고 폐기되었다.

The policy was scrapped after failing to live up to the citizens' anticipation.

부응하지 못하고 means 'failing to live up to'.

과학 기술의 발전은 영생에 대한 인간의 기대감을 자극한다.

The development of science and technology stimulates humans' anticipation for eternal life.

자극한다 means 'stimulates' or 'provokes'.

기대감의 본질은 부재하는 미래를 현재로 끌어당기는 심리적 기제에 있다.

The essence of anticipation lies in the psychological mechanism of pulling an absent future into the present.

심리적 기제 means 'psychological mechanism'.

혁명 전야의 기대감은 때로 이성적인 판단을 압도하는 광기로 변질된다.

The anticipation on the eve of a revolution sometimes deteriorates into madness that overwhelms rational judgment.

압도하는 means 'overwhelming' or 'dominating'.

그 철학자는 인간을 '기대감의 노예'라고 정의하며 실존의 허무를 논했다.

The philosopher discussed the futility of existence, defining humans as 'slaves of anticipation'.

실존의 허무 means 'the futility/nothingness of existence'.

집단적 기대감이 임계점에 도달했을 때 사회는 거대한 변곡점을 맞이한다.

When collective anticipation reaches a critical point, society faces a massive inflection point.

임계점 means 'critical point' or 'threshold'.

작품에 내재된 기대감의 상실은 포스트모더니즘 문학의 핵심적 정서이다.

The loss of anticipation inherent in a work is a core sentiment of postmodern literature.

내재된 means 'inherent' or 'immanent'.

우리는 자본주의가 조장하는 허구적 기대감 속에서 끊임없이 소비를 강요당한다.

We are constantly forced to consume within the fictional anticipation fostered by capitalism.

조장하는 means 'fostering' or 'encouraging (usually something negative)'.

기대감은 인간이 시간의 유한성을 극복하기 위해 발명한 가장 강력한 환상이다.

Anticipation is the most powerful illusion humans invented to overcome the finitude of time.

유한성 means 'finitude' or 'limitedness'.

정치적 수사학은 대중의 기대감을 자양분 삼아 성장하며, 때로 독배가 되어 돌아온다.

Political rhetoric grows by feeding on the public's anticipation, and sometimes returns as a poisoned chalice.

자양분 삼아 means 'using as nourishment'.

Common Collocations

기대감을 높이다

기대감이 크다

기대감을 갖다

기대감이 사라지다

기대감이 고조되다

기대감을 반영하다

기대감이 부풀다

기대감을 나타내다

기대감을 심어주다

기대감이 엇갈리다

Common Phrases

기대감 뿜뿜

— Slang for 'overflowing with anticipation.' Used on social media.

오늘 데이트 기대감 뿜뿜!

기대감 제로

— Zero anticipation. Used when someone is not interested at all.

그 영화는 기대감 제로야.

막연한 기대감

— Vague or groundless anticipation. Waiting for something without a clear reason.

막연한 기대감은 위험할 수 있어요.

기대감에 부풀어

— Being swollen with anticipation. Describes an excited state.

기대감에 부풀어 공항으로 향했다.

기대감 상승

— Rising anticipation. Often used in news headlines.

신곡 티저 공개 후 기대감 상승.

기대감 폭발

— Exploding anticipation. Used when hype reaches a maximum.

라인업 공개에 팬들 기대감 폭발.

기대감을 꺾다

— To break or dampen someone's anticipation.

나쁜 소식이 그의 기대감을 꺾었다.

반신반의하면서도 기대감

— Having anticipation despite being half-doubtful.

반신반의하면서도 기대감이 생기네요.

기대감 속에

— Amidst anticipation. Used to describe the atmosphere of an event.

축제는 큰 기대감 속에 시작되었다.

기대감 충만

— Full of anticipation. A more formal way to say 'full of'.

새해를 맞는 기대감 충만한 모습.

Often Confused With

기대감 vs 기대

'기대' is the act of expecting or a standard. '기대감' is the emotional feeling of that expectation.

기대감 vs 예상

'예상' is a logical prediction based on data. '기대감' is a hopeful feeling.

기대감 vs 설렘

'설렘' is specifically the fluttering, nervous excitement, often romantic. '기대감' is broader and more general.

Idioms & Expressions

"기대감이 하늘을 찌르다"

— Anticipation is piercing the sky. Meaning it is extremely high.

월드컵 결승전을 앞두고 기대감이 하늘을 찔렀다.

Colloquial

"김칫국부터 마시다"

— To drink the kimchi soup first. This means to get ahead of oneself with anticipation before the main event (the rice) is served.

아직 합격도 안 했는데 김칫국부터 마시지 마.

Informal

"눈을 반짝이며 기다리다"

— To wait with sparkling eyes. Implies a high level of 기대감.

아이들은 선물을 눈을 반짝이며 기다렸다.

Descriptive

"목을 길게 빼고 기다리다"

— To wait with one's neck stretched out. Waiting very eagerly.

그는 그녀가 오기를 목을 길게 빼고 기다렸다.

Colloquial

"손꼽아 기다리다"

— To wait while counting on one's fingers. Waiting with great anticipation.

우리는 방학을 손꼽아 기다리고 있다.

Common

"가슴이 두근거리다"

— One's heart is pounding. The physical sensation of 기대감.

발표를 앞두고 가슴이 두근거렸다.

Neutral

"기대감에 찬 눈빛"

— Eyes filled with anticipation.

그녀는 기대감에 찬 눈빛으로 나를 보았다.

Literary

"학수고대하다"

— To wait as a crane waits (with a long neck). Very formal idiom for high anticipation.

여러분의 방문을 학수고대하고 있습니다.

Formal

"설레는 마음으로"

— With a fluttering heart. Often used interchangeably with 기대감.

설레는 마음으로 편지를 열었다.

Neutral

"기대감이 무르익다"

— Anticipation is ripe. Meaning it has reached the perfect moment.

개막을 앞두고 축제 분위기와 기대감이 무르익었다.

Journalistic

Easily Confused

기대감 vs 기대 (Gidae)

They share the same root and basic meaning.

기대 is the general noun for 'expectation.' You can have 'high expectations' (standards) using 기대. 기대감 is the 'feeling' or 'sense' of looking forward to something. You use 기대감 when focusing on the emotion.

부모님의 기대 (Parents' expectations/standards) vs. 내일 소풍에 대한 기대감 (The feeling of looking forward to tomorrow's picnic).

기대감 vs 희망 (Huimang)

Both involve looking toward a positive future.

희망 is 'hope' in a general sense, often for things that are uncertain. 기대감 is for specific events that are likely to happen.

평화를 희망해요 (I hope for peace) vs. 신작 영화에 대한 기대감 (Anticipation for the new movie).

기대감 vs 예상 (Yesang)

Both involve the future.

예상 is a cold, logical prediction or forecast. 기대감 is a warm, emotional anticipation.

날씨 예상 (Weather forecast) vs. 휴가에 대한 기대감 (Anticipation for the vacation).

기대감 vs 설렘 (Seollem)

Both are positive feelings about the future.

설렘 is more visceral—butterflies in the stomach. 기대감 is more of a mental state of looking forward.

첫 사랑의 설렘 (The flutter of first love) vs. 시장의 기대감 (Market anticipation).

기대감 vs 우려 (Uryeo)

Both are 'feelings' about the future.

우려 is the opposite of 기대감. It is concern or worry about something bad happening.

전쟁에 대한 우려 (Concern about war) vs. 축제에 대한 기대감 (Anticipation for the festival).

Sentence Patterns

[Noun] 기대감이 있어요.

선물 기대감이 있어요.

[Noun]에 대한 기대감이 커요.

여행에 대한 기대감이 커요.

[Event]을/를 앞두고 기대감이 고조되다.

공연을 앞두고 기대감이 고조되었다.

[Noun]이/가 기대감을 높여 주다.

예고편이 기대감을 높여 주었다.

기대감이 무색하게도 [Negative Result].

기대감이 무색하게도 경기는 졌다.

기대감은 [Abstract Concept]의 원동력이다.

기대감은 인류 발전의 원동력이다.

Neutral

기대감을 감출 수 없다.

기쁨과 기대감을 감출 수 없었다.

Business

시장의 기대감을 반영하다.

신제품은 시장의 기대감을 반영했다.

Word Family

Nouns

기대 (expectation)

기대치 (expected value/standard)

기대주 (a person on whom expectations are placed/rising star)

Verbs

기대하다 (to expect/look forward to)

Adjectives

기대되는 (expected/anticipated)

설렘 (excitement)

희망 (hope)

전망 (outlook)

예상 (prediction)

고대 (eager waiting)

How to Use It

frequency

Highly frequent in media, intermediate in daily speech.

Common Mistakes

Using '기대감' for standards/pressure. → 부모님의 기대가 커요.
When parents expect you to do well, that's '기대' (expectation/standard), not '기대감' (the feeling of anticipation).
Using it for negative events. → 태풍에 대한 우려가 커요.
You cannot have 'anticipation' for a typhoon; you have 'concern' (우려).
Saying '기대감해요'. → 기대해요 or 기대감을 느껴요.
'기대감' is a noun and cannot be turned into a '하다' verb directly. Use the verb '기대하다' instead.
Using '기대감' for simple predictions. → 내일 비가 올 것으로 예상됩니다.
If you are just predicting rain, use '예상' (prediction). '기대감' implies you want the rain and are excited for it.
Confusing with '설렘'. → 첫 데이트의 설렘.
While similar, '설렘' is more romantic and physical (heart-fluttering). '기대감' is more general and mental.

Tips

Pair with '에 대한'

Always specify what you are anticipating by using the pattern '[Noun]에 대한 기대감'. This makes your sentences clearer and more professional.

Emotion vs. Logic

Remember that '기대감' is an emotion. Use it when you want to talk about how people feel, not just what they think will happen.

Social Media Hype

If you see '기대감 폭발' on a YouTube thumbnail, it means the hype is extremely high. Use this phrase when talking about trending topics.

Subject-Verb Agreement

Commonly used with adjectives of size or height: '크다' (big) and '높다' (high). Avoid using '좋다' (good) directly with '기대감'.

Business News

In economic contexts, it translates well to 'sentiment.' '시장 기대감' is 'market sentiment' or 'market anticipation.'

Descriptive Power

In a journal, write '기대감으로 가슴이 벅차올랐다' (My heart was full with anticipation) to sound more poetic.

Teaser Videos

Watch K-pop or movie teasers and look for the word in the comments. You'll see it used hundreds of times!

Related Roots

Learn other 'Gam' words like '자신감' (confidence) or '행복감' (happiness) to expand your emotional vocabulary easily.

Tone Matters

Since '기대감' is usually positive, say it with an upbeat or curious tone of voice.

Don't use for 'Worry'

Never use '기대감' for things you are afraid of. It will sound like you are happy that something bad is coming.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of 'Gidae' as 'Key-Dae' (The Key to the Day). You are waiting for the 'Key' to unlock a great 'Day.' The 'Gam' is the 'Feeling' you have while holding that key.

Visual Association

Imagine a child standing on their tiptoes (waiting) looking at a big, colorful present. The 'aura' around the child is the '기대감'.

Word Web

기대 (Expectation) 감정 (Emotion) 미래 (Future) 희망 (Hope) 기다림 (Waiting) 설렘 (Flutter) 시장 (Market) 반응 (Reaction)

Challenge

Try to use '기대감' in a sentence about your next meal. Then, try to use it about your next vacation. Notice how the 'size' of the feeling changes.

Word Origin

The word is a Sino-Korean compound. 'Gi' (期) means a set time or to hope. 'Dae' (待) means to wait. 'Gam' (感) means feeling or emotion.

Original meaning: The original meaning literally translates to 'the feeling of waiting for a set time or event.'

Sino-Korean (Hanja-based).

Cultural Context

There are no major sensitivities, but avoid using it for tragic events unless you are being intentionally ironic.

In English, we often just say 'I'm excited' or 'There's a lot of hype.' '기대감' covers both 'anticipation' and 'hype' depending on the context.

News headlines about Samsung's new Galaxy phones often use '기대감 고조' (Anticipation heightened). K-Drama 'Crash Landing on You' fans often spoke of their '기대감' for the final episode. Economic reports from the Bank of Korea frequently mention '소비자 기대감' (Consumer anticipation).

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Before a big holiday or vacation.

여행 기대감
기대감이 커요
기대감으로 잠이 안 와요
기대감이 부풀어요

Discussing a new movie or song.

신곡 기대감
기대감을 높이다
역대급 기대감
기대감 폭발

Financial or business news.

시장 기대감
기대감을 반영하다
경제 회복 기대감
기대감이 고조되다

Starting a new job or school.

새로운 시작에 대한 기대감
기대감이 생기다
기대감을 갖다
기대감 가득

Waiting for news or results.

합격 기대감
기대감 속에 기다리다
기대감이 엇갈리다
막연한 기대감

Conversation Starters

"이번 주말 여행에 대한 기대감이 어때요? (How is your anticipation for the trip this weekend?)"

"새로 나온 영화 예고편 봤어요? 기대감이 정말 크네요! (Did you see the new movie trailer? The anticipation is really big!)"

"새로운 프로젝트 시작하는데 기대감이 좀 있으신가요? (We're starting a new project; do you have some anticipation?)"

"요즘 시장 기대감이 높아지고 있는데 어떻게 생각하세요? (Market anticipation is rising lately; what do you think?)"

"방학이 다가오니까 기대감이 생기지 않아요? (Since vacation is approaching, don't you feel some anticipation?)"

Journal Prompts

오늘 나를 가장 기대감 있게 만든 일은 무엇인가요? (What was the thing that gave you the most anticipation today?)

내가 지금까지 살면서 가장 큰 기대감을 느꼈던 순간은 언제인가요? (When was the moment in your life you felt the greatest anticipation?)

기대감이 실망으로 바뀌었던 경험에 대해 써보세요. (Write about an experience where anticipation turned into disappointment.)

미래의 나에게 어떤 기대감을 가지고 있나요? (What kind of anticipation do you have for your future self?)

기대감이 우리 삶에서 왜 중요하다고 생각하나요? (Why do you think anticipation is important in our lives?)

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

Generally, no. '기대감' implies a positive or interesting outlook. If you are worried about something bad, use '우려' (concern) or '걱정' (worry). For example, you wouldn't say '기대감 for the typhoon' unless you were a storm chaser who was excited about it.

Think of '기대' as the noun 'expectation' (the concept) and '기대감' as the 'sense of anticipation' (the feeling). You use '기대' for things like 'meeting expectations' (기대에 부응하다). You use '기대감' for 'I feel a sense of excitement' (기대감이 생기다).

It is neutral to formal. It's very common in news and business, but you can also use it in casual conversation. It sounds a bit more polished than just saying '기대돼요' (I'm excited).

If you mean standards (like for a student), say '기대가 커요.' If you mean you are very excited about something, you can say '기대감이 커요.'

Yes, it means 'I feel a sense of anticipation.' It's grammatically correct and used, though '기대감이 커요' or '기대감을 갖고 있어요' are slightly more common.

Common verbs include 높이다 (raise), 고조되다 (be heightened), 생기다 (arise), 사라지다 (disappear), and 나타내다 (express).

Use '기대감이' when it's the subject (e.g., '기대감이 커요') and '기대감을' when it's the object (e.g., '기대감을 가져요').

Absolutely! It's one of the most common words used to describe fans' feelings before a comeback or a new album release.

Yes, it comes from 期 (Gi), 待 (Dae), and 感 (Gam). Knowing these can help you understand other related words like '감정' (emotion) or '대기' (waiting).

No, that's very casual slang! Stick to '기대감이 큽니다' or '기대하고 있습니다' in professional settings.