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B2 noun #4,500 most common 12 min read

기저

gijeo Top 4,500

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips 기저 in 30 Seconds

Explanation 기저 in your Level:

At the A1 level, the word 기저 (gijeo) is very difficult and is not usually taught. It is a 'big word' that even many young children in Korea might not use. However, we can understand it by thinking about the 'bottom' of something. Imagine a big cake. The bottom layer that holds everything up is like the '기저'. Or imagine a house; the part under the ground that we don't see is the '기저'. At this level, you don't need to use this word. Instead, you can use simple words like 밑 (bottom) or 아래 (under). If you hear '기저 질환' on the news, just remember it means a 'sickness someone already had.' You will learn much easier words first, like '사과' (apple) or '학교' (school). This word is like a secret code for adults and experts!

At the A2 level, you are starting to learn more Chinese-character-based words (Hanja). 기저 (基底) comes from two characters: '기' (base) and '저' (bottom). While you still won't use this word in everyday chatting with friends, you might see it in a doctor's office or on a health poster. For example, if you see '기저 질환,' it's talking about an 'underlying illness.' Think of it like a hidden problem at the very bottom. Instead of '기저,' you would usually use 기초 (basics) when talking about learning Korean. '기초 한국어' is Basic Korean. '기저' is much more formal. If you want to say something is at the bottom, just use '제일 밑에' (at the very bottom). This word is good to recognize, but you don't need to worry about using it in your own sentences yet.

At the B1 level, you are moving into intermediate Korean. You are starting to read news articles and watch documentaries. You will encounter 기저 when people discuss 'the reason behind' something. For instance, if a news report talks about a social problem, they might say there is an 'underlying' feeling of anger. They would use '기저에 깔린 분노.' Here, '기저' means the foundation or the bottom layer of feelings. You should start to differentiate it from 바탕 (background/foundation). '바탕' is used for things like the background of a picture or the foundation of a personality. '기저' is more for serious, analytical topics. If you are writing a simple essay about a book, you might use '기저' to describe the main theme that is hidden beneath the story. It makes your writing sound more professional and thoughtful.

At the B2 level, you are expected to understand and use 기저 in appropriate contexts. This word is essential for discussing abstract concepts in psychology, sociology, and science. You should know common collocations like 기저 질환 (underlying disease), 기저 심리 (underlying psychology), and 기저를 이루다 (to form the basis). At this level, you understand that '기저' refers to a structural or conceptual foundation that is often not visible but is always influential. When analyzing a text, you can say, '이 논문의 기저에는...라는 가정이 있다' (At the base of this paper, there is an assumption that...). This shows you can look past the surface level of a conversation. You should also be careful not to confuse it with '기초' (which is for learning/basics) or '기점' (which is a starting point in time). Using '기저' correctly is a sign that you are reaching an advanced level of Korean fluency.

At the C1 level, you should have a nuanced command of 기저. You can use it to describe complex philosophical foundations or intricate mathematical bases. You understand its role in academic discourse as a way to identify the 'ontological' or 'logical' foundation of a theory. You might use it in a sentence like, '모더니즘의 기저에 흐르는 허무주의를 고찰해야 한다' (We must examine the nihilism flowing through the foundation of Modernism). You are also aware of its technical meanings in geology (basement rock) and mathematics (basis vectors). At this level, you can use the word to add precision and depth to your analysis, distinguishing between the 'phenomenological surface' and the 'basal structure.' Your usage should be natural, appearing in formal reports, academic debates, or high-level literary critiques without sounding forced.

At the C2 level, you possess a native-like grasp of 기저, including its most abstract and metaphorical applications. You can use it to discuss the 'sub-stratum' of consciousness or the 'foundational principles' of complex legal systems. You understand the subtle differences between '기저,' '근간,' '토대,' and '저변,' and you choose the word that perfectly fits the rhetorical context. For instance, you might use '기저' to describe the 'latent' factors in a statistical model or the 'primordial' layers of a myth. You can engage in deep philosophical discussions about the '기저적 존재' (basal existence) of things. Your ability to use this word allows you to navigate the most sophisticated intellectual environments in Korea, from high-level academic symposiums to the most demanding professional settings, with complete confidence and precision.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

기저 in 30 Seconds

기저 (gijeo) means 'base' or 'underlying foundation.'
It is a formal word used in academic, medical, and psychological contexts.
Commonly used in '기저 질환' (underlying condition) and '기저 심리' (underlying psychology).
It suggests a hidden but fundamental layer that supports or causes what is visible.

The Korean word 기저 (基底) is a sophisticated noun that refers to the fundamental bottom, the underlying foundation, or the base layer of a phenomenon, thought, or physical structure. While it literally translates to 'base' or 'foundation,' it is most frequently employed in abstract, academic, or professional contexts to describe something that exists beneath the surface, influencing the visible reality from below. In the CEFR B2 level, understanding this word is crucial for grasping complex discussions in psychology, sociology, economics, and medicine. Unlike the more common word '기초' (foundation/basics), which often refers to the beginning stages of learning or the literal base of a building, '기저' carries a nuance of being 'hidden beneath' or 'pervading the bottom layer' of a complex system.

Semantic Depth: It functions as a conceptual anchor, indicating the most primal or essential level of an object or idea.
Academic Register: Frequently used in research papers to discuss the 'underlying' causes of social trends or psychological behaviors.

In daily life, you might encounter this word in the news, particularly when discussing health or the economy. A very common term is 기저 질환 (underlying disease), which refers to a pre-existing medical condition that might make a person more vulnerable to other illnesses. This term became exceptionally common during the global pandemic. Furthermore, in psychological contexts, one might speak of 기저 심리 (underlying psychology) to describe the subconscious motivations that drive a person's outward actions. It suggests that what we see on the surface is just the tip of the iceberg, and the '기저' is the massive, unseen part below the water line.

인간의 모든 행위의 기저에는 생존 본능이 자리 잡고 있다.

At the foundation of all human actions, the survival instinct is situated.

When analyzing literature or art, '기저' refers to the fundamental themes or the philosophical atmosphere that permeates the entire work. It isn't just a 'part' of the work; it is the ground upon which the entire work is built. For example, a critic might say that a certain novel has a '기저' of profound loneliness, meaning that even in its happy moments, an underlying sense of solitude is always present. In mathematics, '기저' refers to a 'basis,' a set of vectors that, in a linear combination, can represent every vector in a given vector space. This technical usage highlights the word's role as the 'building block' or 'essential element' of a system.

Structurally, '기저' is often followed by the particle '에' (at/in) and combined with verbs like '깔려 있다' (to be spread/laid out) or '흐르다' (to flow). This creates the image of something being spread out underneath or flowing beneath the surface. For instance, '불안감이 사회 기저에 깔려 있다' translates to 'A sense of anxiety is spread throughout the foundation of society.' This implies that while people might look fine on the outside, there is a pervasive, underlying tension that affects everyone. Understanding this word allows you to describe complex social and psychological landscapes with precision.

경제 위기의 기저 원인을 분석하는 것이 시급하다.

It is urgent to analyze the underlying causes of the economic crisis.

In summary, '기저' is not just a 'bottom'; it is the fundamental essence that supports and shapes everything above it. Whether you are discussing the bedrock in geology, the basis in mathematics, the underlying condition in medicine, or the core themes in philosophy, '기저' provides the vocabulary to look beneath the surface and address the root. It is a word that moves your Korean proficiency from simple descriptions to deep, analytical observation.

Using 기저 effectively requires understanding its typical phrasal patterns. Because it refers to an underlying layer, it is rarely used as a simple subject in isolation. Instead, it is almost always linked to what it is supporting or what is lying upon it. The most common grammatical structure is [Noun]의 기저에 [Verb] or 기저 [Noun].

~의 기저에 깔려 있다: To be spread at the base of something. Used for emotions or social atmospheres. Example: '공포가 그 정책의 기저에 깔려 있다' (Fear lies at the base of that policy).
기저 질환: Underlying medical condition. This is a fixed compound noun used in medical contexts.

When you want to describe a person's hidden motivations, you use '기저 심리'. For example, if someone is overly aggressive because they are actually insecure, you could say, '그의 공격적인 행동 기저에는 열등감이 있다' (At the base of his aggressive behavior, there is an inferiority complex). This usage suggests a causal link between the hidden foundation and the visible manifestation.

이 작품의 기저에는 인간 소외에 대한 비판이 흐르고 있다.

A criticism of human alienation flows through the foundation of this work.

In formal presentations or essays, '기저' is used to identify the core assumptions of a theory. You might say, '이 이론의 기저를 이루는 가설은 다음과 같습니다' (The hypothesis forming the basis of this theory is as follows). Here, '기저를 이루다' (to form the basis) is a high-level expression that shows how one idea supports another. It is much more formal and precise than saying '이 이론의 기본은' (The basic of this theory is...).

Another interesting usage is in the context of '기저 세력' (underlying forces/powers). In political or social analysis, this refers to the groups or interests that aren't visible in the front lines but exert significant influence from behind the scenes. Using '기저' in this way implies a depth of analysis, looking past the obvious actors to the foundational powers at play.

그는 기저 질환이 있어 감기에 걸려도 조심해야 한다.

Since he has an underlying condition, he must be careful even if he catches a cold.

Finally, in geological or physical descriptions, '기저' refers to the actual lowest part. '기저암' (basement rock) refers to the thick foundation of ancient metamorphic and igneous rock that forms the crust of continents. Even in this literal sense, the word maintains its character of being the 'unseen but essential' support for everything above it (the soil, the buildings, the ecosystem).

Collocation: 기저를 형성하다: To form the foundation. Used when describing how multiple factors come together to create a base level.
Collocation: 기저에 흐르는 정서: The emotion flowing underneath. Used to describe the 'vibe' or 'mood' of a community or a period in history.

You will rarely hear 기저 in a casual conversation at a coffee shop or a supermarket. If you do, the speaker is likely discussing a serious topic or is someone who uses high-level vocabulary. The most common place to hear this word is in news broadcasts, particularly during the health or economy segments. When a news anchor says, '기저 질환이 있는 고령층은 특히 주의해야 합니다,' they are communicating vital health information using the formal term for 'underlying conditions.'

정부는 이번 사태의 기저에 깔린 불평등 문제를 해결하겠다고 발표했습니다.

The government announced it would solve the inequality issues lying at the base of this incident.

Another frequent setting is university lectures. Professors in the humanities or social sciences use '기저' to discuss the foundations of philosophical movements or social behaviors. A sociology professor might talk about the '기저에 흐르는 집단주의' (the underlying collectivism) in Korean society. In these contexts, the word helps to distinguish between the 'phenomenon' (what happens) and the 'basis' (why it happens).

In legal or technical documents, '기저' is used to define the starting points of a contract or the fundamental principles of a law. If you are reading a Korean contract, you might see it used to describe the '기저 사실' (underlying facts) upon which the agreement is based. Similarly, in psychological counseling, a therapist might help a client identify the '기저 신념' (core/underlying beliefs) that lead to their anxiety or depression. These are the deep-seated 'rules' the person lives by, often without realizing it.

수학 강의에서 교수는 벡터 공간의 기저를 찾는 법을 설명했다.

In the math lecture, the professor explained how to find the basis of a vector space.

Finally, you will find this word in literary criticism and art reviews. Critics use it to talk about the subtext of a movie or a painting. If a movie seems like a simple comedy but has a dark, underlying message about capitalism, a critic would say that '자본주의에 대한 냉소적인 시각이 영화의 기저에 흐르고 있다' (A cynical view of capitalism flows through the foundation of the movie). Hearing this word should trigger you to look 'deeper' than the surface level of whatever is being discussed.

Context: Medical News: '기저 질환자' (Person with an underlying condition) is a term used daily in health reports.
Context: Literary Analysis: Used to describe the 'foundation' of a writer's world-view or '세계관의 기저'.

One of the most common mistakes learners make with 기저 is confusing it with 기초 (foundation/basics). While they share the Hanja character '基' (base), their usage is quite different. '기초' is used for the literal foundation of a building or the basic levels of a subject (e.g., '기초 한국어' - Basic Korean). '기저' is much more abstract and refers to something that is *already there* underneath, often hidden or pervasive. You wouldn't say '기저 한국어' to mean 'Basic Korean'; that would sound like you are studying the 'underlying essence' of the language in a highly philosophical way.

❌ 기초 질환 (Incorrect for 'underlying disease')
✅ 기저 질환 (Correct medical term)

Another mistake is using '기저' in casual conversation where '바탕' (background/foundation) or '이유' (reason) would be more appropriate. If you are talking about why you like a certain food, saying '그 음식을 좋아하는 기저는...' sounds extremely stiff and unnatural. Use '기저' only when you are performing an analysis or discussing something in a formal or academic capacity. It is a word for 'looking deep,' not for explaining simple preferences.

Learners also struggle with the verb pairings. '기저' is often paired with '깔려 있다' (to be spread/laid out) or '이루다' (to form). A common error is using active verbs like '기저를 만들다' (to make a base) when '기저를 형성하다' (to form a foundation) or '기저가 되다' (to become the base) is preferred in formal writing. The word '기저' implies a state of being or a pre-existing condition rather than a newly constructed 'base' in many contexts.

Confusion with '근본' (Root/Fundamental): '근본' emphasizes the source or origin, whereas '기저' emphasizes the supporting layer underneath. They are close, but '기저' is more spatial/structural in its metaphor.
Overuse in Speech: Avoid using this word in daily text messages or casual chats. It marks you as overly formal or academic.

Finally, ensure you don't confuse it with '기점' (starting point). '기점' is about *time* or *location* where something starts (e.g., the starting point of a marathon). '기저' is about the *depth* or *foundation* that exists throughout or beneath something. If you say '이 사건의 기저는...' you are talking about the underlying causes. If you say '이 사건의 기점은...' you are talking about the moment it began.

❌ 우리 우정의 기저 (Too formal for 'the base of our friendship')
✅ 우리 우정의 바탕 (More natural and warm)

To truly master 기저, you must know how it compares to its synonyms. Korean has many words for 'foundation' or 'base,' and choosing the right one depends entirely on the register and the specific nuance you want to convey. The most common alternatives are 기초, 토대, 바탕, 근본, and 근간.

기초 (基礎): The most common word for 'basics' or 'foundation.' Used for education (기초 수학) or the physical base of a building. It is less abstract than '기저'.
토대 (土臺): Literally 'earth-stand.' It refers to a strong foundation upon which something is built, often used for organizations or nations. '민주주의의 토대' (the foundation of democracy).
바탕: A pure Korean word (pure-hangul). It means 'background' or 'natural disposition.' It is softer and more common in daily speech than the Hanja-based '기저'.

When comparing '기저' to 근본 (根本), think of 'root' versus 'base layer.' '근본' is the source or the essence of something's existence. If you change the '근본,' you change the thing itself. '기저' is more about the layer that supports the current state. They are often interchangeable in philosophical discussions, but '기저' feels more structural while '근본' feels more organic.

그 정책은 경제 성장의 토대가 되었다. (Strong construction metaphor)
그 현상의 기저에는 불안감이 있다. (Underlying layer metaphor)

Another high-level word is 근간 (根幹), which literally means 'root and trunk.' This refers to the core pillar or the backbone of something. If '기저' is the floor, '근간' is the structural frame. For example, '헌법은 국가의 근간이다' (The constitution is the backbone of the nation). You wouldn't usually use '기저' here because the constitution isn't just 'underneath'; it is the main structure.

In specialized fields like mathematics, there is no alternative to '기저' (basis). Using '기초' or '바탕' in a linear algebra class would be factually incorrect. This demonstrates how '기저' has a very specific, technical definition that its synonyms lack. Similarly, in medicine, '기저 질환' is a fixed term; replacing it with '기초 질환' would sound unprofessional and confusing to a doctor. Choosing between these words requires a keen sense of the 'domain' (medicine, math, daily life, politics) you are operating in.

저변 (底邊): Meaning 'base' or 'breadth.' Often used in '저변 확대' (expanding the base/reach) of a sport or culture. It focuses on the width of the foundation rather than the depth.

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

The character '基' (gi) means 'foundation' and is also found in '기독교' (Christianity), which was used to phonetically translate 'Christ' (Gi-dok).

Pronunciation Guide

UK ɡi.dʑʌ

US ɡi.dʒʌ

In Korean, syllables generally have equal stress, but there is a slight natural fall in pitch on the second syllable.

Rhymes With

기어 (gieo - crawling) 지저 (jijeo - chirping) 비저 (bijeo - nasal mucus) 시저 (sijeo - Caesar) 리저 (rijeo - leisure, rare) 미저 (mijeo - not yet decided) 희저 (huijeo - stirring, rare) 의저 (uijeo - formal clothes, rare)

Common Errors

Pronouncing '기' as '키' (aspirated 'k'). It should be a plain 'g/k' sound.
Pronouncing '저' as '조' (jo). Ensure the 'eo' (ㅓ) sound is open.
Confusing it with '기저귀' (gijeogwi - diaper).
Confusing it with '기초' (gicho - basics).
Pronouncing the 'j' sound too strongly like 'ch'.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 4/5

Common in news and books, but requires knowledge of Hanja-based academic terms.

Writing 5/5

Hard to use naturally without sounding overly formal or using the wrong collocation.

Speaking 5/5

Rarely used in casual speech; usually reserved for presentations or serious debates.

Listening 4/5

Easy to recognize once learned, but sounds like other words (기초, 기점).

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

기초 (Basics) 바탕 (Background) 밑 (Bottom) 원인 (Cause) 질환 (Disease)

Learn Next

근간 (Backbone) 토대 (Foundation) 저변 (Base/Breadth) 잠재적 (Potential/Latent) 본질 (Essence)

Advanced

존재론 (Ontology) 구조주의 (Structuralism) 무의식 (Unconscious) 상관관계 (Correlation)

Grammar to Know

~에 깔려 있다 (To be spread/laid out in...)

바닥에 카펫이 깔려 있다. (Literal) vs. 사회 기저에 불만이 깔려 있다. (Metaphorical)

~를 기저로 하다 (To be based on...)

이 영화는 실화를 기저로 하고 있다.

~의 기저를 이루다 (To form the basis of...)

신뢰는 우정의 기저를 이룬다.

~에 흐르다 (To flow in/through...)

그의 음악 기저에는 슬픔이 흐른다.

~적 (Suffix to make an adjective)

기저적 (Foundational/Basal)

Examples by Level

집의 밑에 기저가 있어요.

There is a foundation under the house.

A1 learners would usually just say '밑' (bottom).

이것은 기저 질환이에요.

This is an underlying disease.

'기저 질환' is a fixed term even beginners might hear.

기저는 제일 아래 부분이에요.

The 'gijeo' is the very bottom part.

Simple definition using '제일' (most/first).

기저에 무엇이 있어요?

What is at the base?

Using the particle '에' for location.

산의 기저는 넓어요.

The base of the mountain is wide.

Describing a physical base.

기저가 튼튼해요.

The foundation is strong.

Using the adjective '튼튼하다' (to be strong).

우리는 기저를 봐요.

We look at the base.

Simple subject-object-verb structure.

기저에 물이 있어요.

There is water at the base.

Using '있다' to show existence.

그는 기저 질환이 있어서 병원에 갔어요.

He went to the hospital because he has an underlying condition.

Using '-어서' to show reason.

이 건물의 기저를 확인하세요.

Please check the foundation of this building.

Using the imperative '-으세요'.

모든 일에는 기저 원인이 있어요.

Every matter has an underlying cause.

'기저 원인' means underlying cause.

바다 기저에는 많은 생물이 살아요.

Many creatures live at the bottom of the sea.

'바다 기저' refers to the seabed/ocean floor.

그의 생각 기저에는 사랑이 있어요.

At the base of his thoughts, there is love.

Using '기저에는' to introduce a hidden feeling.

기저가 흔들리면 위험해요.

If the foundation shakes, it is dangerous.

Using '-면' for a conditional statement.

이 계획의 기저는 무엇입니까?

What is the basis of this plan?

Formal question ending '-습니까'.

기저 부분을 더 깊게 파세요.

Dig the base part deeper.

Adverb '깊게' (deeply) modifying '파다' (dig).

사회 기저에 깔린 불안감을 해소해야 합니다.

We must resolve the anxiety spread throughout the foundation of society.

'기저에 깔린' is a very common idiomatic expression.

이 영화의 기저에는 슬픈 이야기가 있어요.

There is a sad story at the foundation of this movie.

Using '기저' to describe subtext.

그는 기저 질환 때문에 백신을 맞기 전 상담을 받았다.

Because of an underlying condition, he received a consultation before getting the vaccine.

Using '때문에' to show cause.

성공의 기저에는 끊임없는 노력이 숨어 있다.

Endless effort is hidden at the base of success.

Using '숨어 있다' (to be hidden).

이 이론의 기저를 이해하는 것이 중요합니다.

It is important to understand the basis of this theory.

Nominalizing the verb '이해하다' into '이해하는 것'.

갈등의 기저에는 서로에 대한 오해가 있었다.

At the base of the conflict, there was a misunderstanding of each other.

Using '서로에 대한' (toward each other).

작가는 작품의 기저에 인간의 존엄성을 강조했다.

The author emphasized human dignity at the foundation of the work.

Using '강조하다' (to emphasize).

기저 심리를 분석하면 행동의 이유를 알 수 있다.

If you analyze the underlying psychology, you can know the reason for the behavior.

Using '-면' and '-을 수 있다'.

그의 발언 기저에는 정치적 의도가 다분히 깔려 있다.

There are clearly political intentions lying at the base of his remarks.

'다분히' (highly/greatly) adds emphasis to the underlying state.

현대 철학의 기저를 이루는 사상은 무엇인가?

What is the thought that forms the basis of modern philosophy?

'기저를 이루다' is a formal way to say 'form the basis'.

기저 질환이 있는 환자들은 감염병에 더 취약할 수밖에 없다.

Patients with underlying diseases cannot help but be more vulnerable to infectious diseases.

'-을 수밖에 없다' (cannot help but...).

이 현상의 기저에 흐르는 경제적 논리를 파악해야 한다.

We must grasp the economic logic flowing through the foundation of this phenomenon.

'기저에 흐르다' suggests a pervasive but unseen influence.

문화적 차이가 갈등의 기저를 형성하고 있다.

Cultural differences are forming the foundation of the conflict.

'형성하다' (to form) is a formal verb for 'to make'.

그 소설은 전후 사회의 기저에 깔린 허무주의를 잘 묘사했다.

The novel well-depicted the nihilism spread through the foundation of post-war society.

'묘사하다' (to depict) is a B2-level descriptive verb.

모든 생명 활동의 기저에는 복잡한 화학 반응이 있다.

At the base of all life activities, there are complex chemical reactions.

Using '기저에는' to describe scientific foundations.

수학에서 기저란 벡터 공간을 생성하는 선형 독립인 벡터들의 집합이다.

In mathematics, a basis is a set of linearly independent vectors that span a vector space.

Academic definition using the '-이란' (as for...) structure.

서구 문명의 기저에는 기독교적 가치관이 깊게 뿌리 박혀 있다.

Christian values are deeply rooted at the foundation of Western civilization.

'뿌리 박혀 있다' (to be rooted) is a strong metaphorical pairing with '기저'.

그 정책의 기저에 깔린 공리주의적 발상은 비판의 대상이 되었다.

The utilitarian idea lying at the base of that policy became an object of criticism.

'공리주의적' (utilitarian) is C1-level academic vocabulary.

인간 소외 현상은 자본주의 사회의 기저에서 발생하는 필연적 결과인가?

Is the phenomenon of human alienation an inevitable result arising from the foundation of capitalist society?

'필연적' (inevitable) and '소외' (alienation) are high-level terms.

그 학자는 언어의 기저 구조가 모든 인간에게 보편적이라고 주장했다.

The scholar argued that the underlying structure of language is universal to all humans.

'기저 구조' (underlying/deep structure) is a term from linguistics (Chomsky).

법치주의의 기저를 흔드는 행위는 결코 용납될 수 없다.

Acts that shake the foundation of the rule of law can never be tolerated.

'용납되다' (to be tolerated) is a formal passive verb.

예술가는 일상의 기저에 숨겨진 진실을 포착해내는 사람이다.

An artist is someone who captures the truth hidden at the base of everyday life.

'포착해내다' (to capture/detect) shows advanced verb compounding.

그 데이터의 기저에 있는 상관관계를 분석하는 것이 논문의 핵심이다.

Analyzing the correlations at the base of that data is the core of the thesis.

'상관관계' (correlation) is essential for C1 research contexts.

집단 무의식은 인류 전체의 정신적 기저를 형성한다.

The collective unconscious forms the mental foundation of all humanity.

'집단 무의식' (collective unconscious) is a Jungian psychological term.

존재론적 기저에 대한 탐구는 철학의 가장 오래된 과제 중 하나이다.

The inquiry into the ontological foundation is one of the oldest tasks of philosophy.

'존재론적' (ontological) is a C2-level philosophical term.

시장의 기저에 흐르는 보이지 않는 손의 원리를 재해석할 필요가 있다.

There is a need to reinterpret the principle of the 'invisible hand' flowing through the foundation of the market.

Combining Adam Smith's metaphor with '기저에 흐르는'.

그의 문학 세계는 유년 시절의 트라우마를 기저로 하여 구축되었다.

His literary world was constructed with childhood trauma as its foundation.

'~를 기저로 하여' (with ... as the foundation) is a sophisticated structure.

신자유주의적 통치성의 기저에는 자기 책임의 원리가 깔려 있다.

At the base of neoliberal governmentality, the principle of self-responsibility is situated.

Political science terminology ('통치성' - governmentality).

언어적 기표의 기저에 도사린 기의의 불확정성을 논하다.

Discussing the indeterminacy of the signified lurking beneath the linguistic signifier.

Semiotics terminology ('기표' - signifier, '기의' - signified).

이 건축물은 암반 기저 위에 세워져 지진에도 매우 견고하다.

This building is built on a bedrock foundation, making it very sturdy even against earthquakes.

'암반 기저' (bedrock foundation) is a technical geological term.

인간의 인지적 기저를 탐구하는 뇌과학의 발전이 눈부시다.

The development of neuroscience exploring the cognitive foundation of humans is dazzling.

'인지적' (cognitive) and '눈부시다' (dazzling/remarkable).

역사적 기저를 무시한 채 현재의 현상만을 분석하는 것은 위험하다.

It is dangerous to analyze only current phenomena while ignoring the historical foundation.

'~한 채' (while in the state of...) expressing a simultaneous condition.

Synonyms

기초 바탕 근본

Antonyms

표면 외형

Common Collocations

기저 질환

기저 심리

기저에 깔려 있다

기저를 이루다

기저에 흐르다

기저 원인

기저 사실

기저 세력

기저암

기저 벡터

Common Phrases

기저에 깔리다

— To lie at the base or foundation of something, usually an emotion or social atmosphere.

그의 말에는 항상 유머가 기저에 깔려 있다.

기저를 형성하다

— To form the foundation or basis of a situation or theory.

여러 요인이 복합적으로 작용하여 문제의 기저를 형성했다.

기저에 잠재되어 있다

— To be latent or hidden at the foundation.

갈등의 씨앗이 기저에 잠재되어 있었다.

기저가 튼튼하다

— To have a strong foundation (can be literal or metaphorical).

이 회사는 재무 기저가 튼튼하다.

기저를 다지다

— To strengthen or solidify the foundation.

새로운 사업의 기저를 다지는 시기이다.

기저로부터의 변화

— A change from the very foundation/bottom up.

사회 기저로부터의 변화가 필요하다.

기저에 뿌리 박다

— To be deeply rooted in the foundation.

전통이 우리 삶의 기저에 뿌리 박혀 있다.

기저를 흔들다

— To shake the foundation of something.

이 스캔들은 정권의 기저를 흔들었다.

기저를 분석하다

— To analyze the underlying basis of something.

범죄의 기저를 분석하여 예방책을 세우다.

기저가 되다

— To become the base or foundation.

그의 경험이 성공의 기저가 되었다.

Often Confused With

기저 vs 기초 (基礎)

기초 is for learning basics or building foundations; 기저 is for underlying, often hidden, layers.

기저 vs 기점 (起點)

기점 is a starting point in time or space; 기저 is a structural base.

기저 vs 기반 (基盤)

기반 is a platform or base for activity; 기저 is more about the layer underneath.

Idioms & Expressions

"기저에 깔린 생각"

— The thought lying at the base. Refers to a person's true, hidden intention.

그의 친절함 기저에 깔린 생각을 알 수가 없다.

Neutral

"기저를 꿰뚫어 보다"

— To see through to the foundation. To understand the hidden truth of a matter.

그는 사건의 기저를 꿰뚫어 보는 통찰력이 있다.

Formal

"기저가 허약하다"

— To have a weak foundation. Used for systems or ideas that lack support.

그 이론은 논리적 기저가 허약하다.

Formal

"기저를 무너뜨리다"

— To destroy the foundation. To invalidate the core of an argument or system.

새로운 증거가 그의 주장의 기저를 무너뜨렸다.

Formal

"기저에 흐르는 정서"

— The emotion flowing at the base. The general mood of a work or group.

한국인의 기저에 흐르는 정서 중 하나는 '정'이다.

Neutral

"기저를 이루는 가치"

— The values forming the basis. The core principles of a person or group.

우리 회사의 기저를 이루는 가치는 정직이다.

Formal

"기저를 탐구하다"

— To explore the foundation. To research the deep causes of something.

철학자는 인간 존재의 기저를 탐구한다.

Academic

"기저를 확인하다"

— To verify the foundation. To check the starting facts or physical base.

공사를 시작하기 전에 기저를 확인해야 한다.

Technical

"기저에 자리 잡다"

— To be situated at the base. To become a permanent underlying feature.

불신이 두 사람의 관계 기저에 자리 잡았다.

Neutral

"기저를 공유하다"

— To share the same foundation. To have the same basic assumptions or background.

두 작가는 같은 문화적 기저를 공유하고 있다.

Formal

Easily Confused

기저 vs 기저귀 (Diaper)

Sounds very similar.

기저귀 is a diaper for babies. 기저 is a foundation. They are unrelated.

아기에게 기저귀를 갈아주다 vs. 사회의 기저를 분석하다.

기저 vs 기초 (Basics)

Both start with '기' and mean foundation.

기초 is for the 'start' or 'basics' of something. 기저 is the 'underlying layer'. You learn '기초 한국어', not '기저 한국어'.

기초가 부족하다 vs. 기저 질환이 있다.

기저 vs 기지 (Base/Wit)

Starts with '기'.

기지 can mean a military base (군사 기지) or wit/cleverness (기지를 발휘하다). 기저 is a conceptual foundation.

공군 기지 vs. 기저 심리.

기저 vs 기저 (Basal) vs. 기초 (Basic)

Translation overlap.

In medicine, '기저' is 'basal' or 'underlying'. In education, '기초' is 'basic'.

기저 세포 (Basal cell) vs. 기초 교육 (Basic education).

기저 vs 근본 (Root)

Synonyms.

근본 is the 'root' or 'essence'. 기저 is the 'base layer'. 근본 is more organic; 기저 is more structural.

근본적인 해결책 vs. 기저에 깔린 감정.

Sentence Patterns

[Noun]의 기저에는 [Emotion/Idea]이/가 깔려 있다.

이 정책의 기저에는 불신이 깔려 있다.

[Noun]은/는 [Noun]의 기저를 이룬다.

수학은 공학의 기저를 이룬다.

[Noun]의 기저에 흐르는 [Emotion]을/를 포착하다.

작가는 사회 기저에 흐르는 냉소를 포착했다.

[Noun]을/를 기저로 하여 [Action/Result].

그는 자신의 경험을 기저로 하여 소설을 썼다.

기저 질환으로 인해 [Health Issue].

기저 질환으로 인해 면역력이 약해졌다.

기저적 존재론에 대한 [Academic Action].

기저적 존재론에 대한 철학적 고찰이 필요하다.

기저 심리를 파악하는 것이 [Importance].

고객의 기저 심리를 파악하는 것이 마케팅의 핵심이다.

기저를 흔드는 [Negative Action].

국가의 기저를 흔드는 부패를 척결해야 한다.

Word Family

Nouns

기저 (Base/Foundation)

기초 (Basics)

기반 (Base/Platform)

기점 (Starting point)

Verbs

기저하다 (To be based on - rare, usually '기저를 이루다' is used)

Adjectives

기저적 (Basal/Foundational)

바탕

토대

근본

근간

저변

How to Use It

frequency

High in specific domains (News, Medicine, Academia), Low in daily conversation.

Common Mistakes

Using '기저' for 'Basic Korean'. → 기초 한국어
'기저' is for underlying foundations, not for the introductory stage of learning. '기초' is the correct word for 'basic' in education.
Saying '기저 질환' in a casual chat about a cold. → 그냥 감기예요 / 원래 몸이 좀 약해요
'기저 질환' is a formal medical term. Using it in a casual chat with friends about a simple cold sounds too serious and stiff.
Confusing '기저' with '기점'. → 사건의 기점 (Starting point of the event)
'기점' is about *when* or *where* something starts. '기저' is about the *underlying layer* of why it happens.
Using '기저' to mean the 'bottom' of a bag. → 가방 바닥
'기저' is for structural or conceptual bases. For everyday objects like bags or boxes, use '바닥' (bottom/floor).
Misspelling as '기재'. → 기저
'기재' means 'to write down' or 'to record'. Make sure to use 'ㅓ' for the foundation.

Tips

Use with '깔려 있다'

The most natural way to use '기저' for emotions or social issues is with '깔려 있다'. For example: '그의 농담 기저에는 슬픔이 깔려 있다' (At the base of his joke, sadness is spread).

Learn '기저 질환'

This is the most common real-world use of the word today. If you know this term, you will understand a lot of Korean news about health and safety.

Don't use for 'Basics'

If you are talking about learning the basics of a hobby or language, never use '기저'. Always use '기초' (e.g., 기초 요리, 기초 한국어).

Think of an Ocean

The waves on top are the events, but the '기저' is the deep ocean floor that determines how the waves move. Use '기저' when you want to talk about that deep level.

Thesis Writing

If you are writing a paper in Korean, using '기저를 이루다' (to form the basis) will make your argument sound much more sophisticated than using '기본이다'.

Listen for the Hanja

Recognizing '기' (base) and '저' (bottom) helps you guess the meaning of other related words like '기반' or '저변'.

Formal Debates

In a debate, use '기저' to point out the hidden assumptions in your opponent's argument. '상대방 주장의 기저에는...라는 잘못된 가정이 있습니다.'

Contextual Clues

If you see '기저' in a math book, it's 'basis'. In a geology book, it's 'bedrock'. In a novel, it's 'subtext'. Always check the subject matter.

Social Sensitivity

Using '기저' shows you are looking for deep meanings, which is valued in Korean social and academic culture.

Visual Link

Visualize the word '기저' written on the very bottom line of a notebook. It is the foundation for everything else written above.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of 'GI' (Giant) + 'JEO' (Joe). Imagine a Giant named Joe who lives under the floor. He is the 'GI-JEO' (foundation) of the house.

Visual Association

Imagine an iceberg. The small part above water is the '표면' (surface), and the massive part underwater is the '기저' (foundation).

Word Web

기저 질환 (Medical) 기저 심리 (Psychology) 기저 벡터 (Math) 기저암 (Geology) 기저에 깔리다 (Abstract) 기저를 이루다 (Formal) 기저 구조 (Linguistics) 기저 사실 (Legal)

Challenge

Write a sentence using '기저' to describe why you chose to learn Korean, focusing on your deep, underlying motivation.

Word Origin

Borrowed from Middle Chinese 基底 (kjij tej). It is a Sino-Korean word (Hanja).

Original meaning: The physical bottom or base of a structure.

Sino-Korean (Chinese characters)

Cultural Context

When discussing '기저 질환' (underlying diseases), be sensitive as it often refers to serious health conditions or the vulnerability of the elderly.

In English, we often use 'underlying' or 'foundation.' '기저' matches the formal tone of 'underlying' perfectly.

Found in many Korean translations of Sigmund Freud's works regarding the '기저 심리' (subconscious/underlying psychology). Used in Korean academic translations of Noam Chomsky's 'Deep Structure' (기저 구조). Commonly appearing in Korean news reports regarding public health and economic 'fundamentals'.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Medical / Health News

기저 질환이 있다
기저 질환자
기저 상태 확인
기저 원인 치료

Psychology / Counseling

기저 심리 분석
기저에 깔린 불안
기저 신념 수정
기저의 욕구

Academic Writing / Research

이론의 기저를 이루다
현상의 기저 분석
기저 가설 설정
논리적 기저

Art / Literary Criticism

작품 기저의 주제
기저에 흐르는 정서
문화적 기저
사상적 기저

Mathematics / Science

기저 벡터 구하기
기저암 조사
물질의 기저 상태
기저층 관찰

Conversation Starters

"최근 뉴스에서 '기저 질환'이라는 말을 자주 듣는데, 정확히 무슨 뜻인가요?"

"이 영화의 기저에 깔린 메시지가 무엇이라고 생각하세요?"

"우리 사회의 갈등 기저에는 어떤 문제가 있다고 보십니까?"

"당신의 열정 기저에는 어떤 동기가 있나요?"

"이 이론의 논리적 기저가 무엇인지 설명해 주실 수 있나요?"

Journal Prompts

내가 가진 가장 큰 두려움의 기저에는 무엇이 있는지 분석해 보자.

한국 사회의 기저에 흐르는 가장 큰 에너지는 무엇이라고 생각하는가?

내가 인생에서 중요하게 생각하는 가치들의 기저를 이루는 경험은 무엇인가?

최근에 읽은 책이나 본 영화의 기저에 깔린 주제에 대해 써 보자.

나의 건강 상태와 기저 질환(있다면)에 대해 기록하고 관리 계획을 세워 보자.

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

Not always, but it usually implies something that is not the main focus or is situated beneath the surface. In mathematics or geology, it refers to a literal, visible base, but in social contexts, it almost always refers to hidden factors.

Yes, but '기초' or '토대' is much more common for physical buildings. '기저' sounds very technical or academic in that context, perhaps used by a structural engineer.

It refers to a chronic or pre-existing medical condition, such as diabetes, hypertension, or asthma, that exists before a new illness (like a virus) occurs. It is an 'underlying' health issue.

Yes, it frequently appears in TOPIK II (Intermediate/Advanced) reading and listening sections, especially in articles about psychology, society, or science.

Technically '기저하다' exists, but it is extremely rare. Almost everyone uses the noun form '기저' with verbs like '이루다', '되다', or '깔리다'.

You can say '기저 원인' or '근본적인 원인'. '기저 원인' sounds slightly more technical/analytical.

'바탕' is a native Korean word and sounds more natural in daily speech. '기저' is a Hanja-based word and sounds more formal and professional.

No. '기저귀' is a native Korean word. The similarity in sound is purely coincidental. Don't tell your boss he has a '기저 질환' if you mean he's acting like a baby!

In linear algebra, '기저' (basis) is a set of linearly independent vectors that can represent every vector in a space. It's the 'building blocks' of that space.

Associate '기' with 'Ground' and '저' with 'Just below'. It's the layer just below the ground level.