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B2 noun 8 min read

경제력

gyeongjeryeok
Examples 경제력 in 30 Seconds
Explanation 경제력 in your Level:
At the A1 level, '경제력' (gyeong-je-ryeok) might be a bit difficult because it is a formal word. However, you can think of it as 'having money to do things.' At this stage, you know simple words like '돈' (money) and '있다' (to have). '경제력' is just a bigger word for 'the power that comes from having money.' Imagine you want to buy a toy. If you have the money, you have the 'power' to buy it. In Korea, adults use this word when talking about jobs and houses. You don't need to use it yourself yet, but if you see '경제' (economy) and '력' (power), just remember it means someone is financially strong. It is like saying 'super money power.'
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At the A2 level, you are starting to learn more about society and work. '경제력' is a noun that combines 'economy' and 'power.' You might hear this word in simple news clips or when people talk about why someone is successful. For an A2 learner, focus on the fact that '경제력' is usually something people 'have' (갖다/있다) or 'don't have' (없다). For example, '부모님의 경제력' means 'parents' financial ability.' You might use it to explain why someone can go to a good university or travel a lot. It is more formal than just saying 'money,' so using it makes you sound like a more serious student of Korean.
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At the B1 level, you should begin to use '경제력' in your own writing and speaking, especially when discussing social issues or personal goals. You understand that '경제력' isn't just about cash; it's about stability. You can use it to talk about 'financial independence' (경제적 자립) and how '경제력' is necessary for it. You will see this word in intermediate reading passages about the Korean economy or changing family structures. You should practice pairing it with verbs like '키우다' (to grow) or '뒷받침하다' (to support). For example, '성공을 위해서는 경제력이 뒷받침되어야 한다' (To succeed, economic power must be supportive).
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At the B2 level, you are expected to understand the nuance of '경제력' compared to other words like '재력' (wealth) or '자금력' (funding). You should be able to discuss the 'economic power' of nations and how it affects global influence. You will encounter this word in editorials, documentaries, and professional discussions. At this level, you should recognize compound terms like '경제력 집중' (concentration of economic power) or '경제력 격차' (economic gap). You can use it to express complex ideas about how financial capability affects one's quality of life or a company's competitive advantage. It is a key word for any B2 learner aiming for professional fluency.
At the C1 level, you use '경제력' with precision in academic and professional contexts. You understand its implications in sociology, such as how economic power translates into political influence or social capital. You can analyze texts that discuss the 'hegemony of economic power' or the 'structural limitations of economic power' in marginalized groups. You should be comfortable using the word in debates about wealth redistribution, corporate monopolies, and international relations. Your usage should include sophisticated collocations like '경제력을 행사하다' (to exercise economic power) or '경제력의 불균형' (imbalance of economic power). You see the word as a metric of systemic influence.
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At the C2 level, '경제력' is a tool for deep philosophical and strategic analysis. You can discuss the philosophical underpinnings of economic power in a capitalist society and its relationship with human rights and ethics. You understand the historical evolution of the term from its Hanja roots to its modern neoliberal connotations. You can effortlessly switch between '경제력' and its most technical synonyms depending on the specific field (e.g., using '지불 능력' in a credit context vs '경제력' in a general socio-political context). You are capable of writing complex policy proposals or academic papers where '경제력' is a central variable in your thesis.
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Examples

경제력 in 30 Seconds

  • 경제력 (Gyeong-je-ryeok) means economic power or financial capability of a person or nation.
  • It is a formal term used in news, business, and serious social discussions about wealth.
  • Commonly paired with verbs like 'possess' (갖추다), 'grow' (키우다), and 'lose' (잃다).
  • It signifies influence and leverage gained through financial stability, not just the money itself.

The term 경제력 (Gyeong-je-ryeok) is a foundational concept in Korean society, representing far more than just having money in a bank account. It is a compound noun derived from the Hanja characters 經 (manage), 濟 (help/save), and 力 (power). Historically, '경제' (economy) comes from the phrase '경세제민' (經世濟民), which means to govern the world and save the people. Thus, 경제력 refers to the 'power to manage and sustain life through financial means.' It describes the financial capability, economic influence, or purchasing power of an individual, a family, a corporation, or even an entire nation. In a modern context, it is often used to discuss one's ability to support a lifestyle, invest in the future, or exert influence within a market or social structure.

Societal Context
In South Korea, economic power is often seen as a prerequisite for social mobility and stability. It is a frequent topic in news reports discussing the 'economic power' of women in the workforce or the 'economic power' of the elderly population.
Individual Level
For individuals, it refers to 'financial independence' or the capacity to afford necessities and luxuries without external help. It is often used in the context of marriage, where '경제력' is considered a key factor in choosing a partner.

그는 부모님으로부터 독립할 수 있는 충분한 경제력을 갖추고 있다.

Translation: He possesses sufficient economic power to be independent from his parents.

When you hear this word, think of 'leverage.' While '돈' (money) is the currency itself, '경제력' is the power that money provides. A country might have high economic power (GDP), which allows it to influence global politics. A person might have economic power, which allows them to make choices about their education, health, and living standards. It is a formal word, used in professional settings, academic discussions, and serious social conversations.

여성의 경제력 향상은 사회 구조의 변화를 이끌어냈다.

Translation: The improvement of women's economic power has led to changes in the social structure.

The word is versatile. It can be used to describe the 'purchasing power' (구매력) of a consumer group or the 'competitive edge' of a company in the global market. Because it contains the character '力' (power), it always implies an active ability to do something or influence someone. It is not a static state of having money, but a dynamic state of being able to use it effectively.

Global Context
Used to compare the G7 nations or emerging markets. '한국의 경제력은 세계 10위권이다' (Korea's economic power is in the top 10 in the world).

기업의 경제력 집중 현상에 대한 우려가 커지고 있다.

Using 경제력 correctly requires understanding its common verb pairings. Since it is a 'power' or 'capability,' we often use verbs that describe possessing, increasing, or losing that power. The most common verb is 갖추다 (to possess/be equipped with). When you say someone '경제력을 갖추다,' it implies they have reached a level of financial stability where they are self-sufficient.

Common Verb Collocations
  • 경제력을 키우다: To grow/build economic power (often used for countries or young individuals).
  • 경제력을 잃다: To lose economic power (due to unemployment or market crashes).
  • 경제력을 과시하다: To show off one's economic power (conspicuous consumption).
  • 경제력이 뒷받침되다: To be supported by economic power (essential for starting a business).

새로운 사업을 시작하려면 탄탄한 경제력이 필수적입니다.

Translation: Solid economic power is essential to start a new business.

Grammatically, '경제력' functions as a noun. It can be the subject of a sentence (경제력이 중요하다), the object (경제력을 키워야 한다), or part of a compound noun phrase (경제력 격차 - the gap in economic power). When describing a person's attribute, you can use the possessive '의' or simply place it before a noun describing the person, though '의' is more common for clarity.

국가 간의 경제력 차이가 심화되고 있습니다.

In debate or essay writing, '경제력' is used to argue points about social equality. For example, '경제력에 따른 교육 기회의 불평등' (inequality of educational opportunities according to economic power). Here, '경제력에 따른' is a very useful pattern meaning 'depending on' or 'according to' one's financial capability.

Sentence Patterns
1. [Subject] + 은/는 + [Object] + 을/를 + 바탕으로 + [Verb]: Using economic power as a base.
2. [Noun] + 의 + 경제력: The economic power of [Noun].

그 회사는 막강한 경제력을 바탕으로 시장을 점유했다.

You will encounter 경제력 in several distinct environments, each giving the word a slightly different flavor. The most common place is the **News and Business Reports**. News anchors frequently discuss '국가 경제력' (national economic power) when comparing Korea to other OECD nations or discussing GDP growth. In this context, it is a clinical, statistical term.

News Context
"이번 분기 수출 호조로 인해 대한민국의 경제력이 한층 강화되었습니다." (Due to favorable exports this quarter, South Korea's economic power has been further strengthened.)

신흥국들의 경제력이 급격히 상승하고 있습니다.

Another major arena is **Social Discussions and Relationship Advice**. In Korea, there is a very pragmatic view of marriage and dating. You will often hear people talk about '배우자의 경제력' (a spouse's economic power). This isn't just about being greedy; it's about the ability to maintain a household and raise children in a competitive society. On TV talk shows or in online forums like Nate Pann or Blind, users debate whether '경제력' is the most important factor in a successful marriage.

요즘은 남녀 모두 상대방의 경제력을 중요하게 생각합니다.

You will also hear it in **Legal and Policy Debates**. When discussing welfare, the government often uses the term '경제력' to determine eligibility. For example, '경제력이 없는 노인층' (the elderly who lack economic power). In this sense, it acts as a measure of vulnerability. If someone lacks economic power, they are considered in need of state support.

Workplace Context
In a corporate meeting, a manager might talk about the '경제력' of a potential partner company to ensure they can handle a large project contract.

그 중소기업은 기술력은 좋지만 경제력이 부족하여 홍보에 어려움을 겪고 있다.

While 경제력 is a straightforward noun, learners often make a few subtle mistakes in its application. The most common error is confusing it with the simple word for 'money' (돈) or 'wealth' (재산). While related, they are not interchangeable in formal Korean.

Mistake 1: Using '경제력' for pocket money
You wouldn't say "나 경제력이 없어" (I don't have economic power) when you just forgot your wallet at a cafe. In that case, use "돈이 없어" (I don't have money). '경제력' refers to your overall financial standing or long-term capability.

Incorrect: 오늘 점심 살 경제력이 없어요. (I don't have the economic power to buy lunch today.)

Correct: 오늘 점심 살 돈이 없어요. (I don't have money to buy lunch today.)

Another mistake is confusing 경제력 with 경제 (economy). '경제' is the system itself, while '경제력' is the power within that system. You can improve the 'economy' (경제를 살리다), but you increase your 'economic power' (경제력을 키우다).

Learners also sometimes struggle with the level of formality. '경제력' is a B2/C1 level word. Using it in a very casual, slang-heavy conversation might sound slightly stiff or overly dramatic unless you are being intentionally ironic. For example, if you are talking to a close friend about being broke, '거지' (beggar/broke) or '돈이 하나도 없다' is more natural than discussing your lack of '경제력'.

Mistake 2: Subject/Verb Disagreement
Don't say '경제력이 높다' (Economic power is high) as often as '경제력이 크다' (Economic power is large/great) or '경제력이 강하다' (Economic power is strong). While '높다' is sometimes used for levels, '강하다' and '막강하다' are the more natural descriptors for 'power'.

그는 막강한 경제력을 가졌지만 매우 검소하다. (He has immense economic power but is very frugal.)

To truly master Korean, you must understand the subtle differences between 경제력 and its synonyms. Depending on the focus—whether it's cash flow, total assets, or national strength—the word you choose will change.

재력 (財力)
This focuses specifically on 'wealth' or 'fortune.' If someone is a multi-millionaire, you talk about their '재력.' While '경제력' can include things like a steady high income or creditworthiness, '재력' usually implies accumulated assets.
자금력 (資金力)
This is 'funding power' or 'capital power.' It is used almost exclusively in business. A company might have high '자금력' to acquire another company. It's about 'liquid' cash available for a specific purpose.

그 사업가는 대단한 재력가로 알려져 있다. (That businessman is known as a person of great wealth.)

When discussing countries, you might use 국력 (national power). Economic power is a subset of national power, which also includes military and cultural influence (soft power). If you want to focus on the 'buying' aspect, use 구매력 (purchasing power). This is common in marketing to describe how much a certain demographic can spend.

중산층의 구매력이 감소하면서 내수 시장이 위축되었다.

In a casual setting, people might just say '돈이 많다' (has a lot of money) or '능력 있다' (is capable). Interestingly, '능력' (capability) is often used as a euphemism for '경제력' in dating contexts. If someone says, "그 사람은 능력이 좋아," they often mean the person has a high-paying job and strong economic power.

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Examples by Level

1

그는 경제력이 있어요.

He has economic power (financial ability).

Simple Subject + Object + Verb structure.

2

경제력이 중요해요.

Economic power is important.

The particle '-이' marks the subject.

3

우리 가족은 경제력이 좋아요.

My family has good economic power.

Using '좋다' to describe the level of power.

4

그녀는 경제력을 원해요.

She wants economic power.

Object marker '-를' is used.

5

경제력이 없으면 힘들어요.

It is hard if you don't have economic power.

'-으면' means 'if'.

6

친구의 경제력이 부러워요.

I envy my friend's economic power.

Possessive particle '-의'.

7

돈은 경제력의 일부예요.

Money is a part of economic power.

'-예요' is the polite 'to be' ending.

8

공부해서 경제력을 키워요.

Study and grow your economic power.

'-어서' shows the reason or sequence.

1

좋은 직업은 경제력을 줍니다.

A good job gives economic power.

The verb '주다' (to give) is used.

2

그 나라는 경제력이 매우 커요.

That country's economic power is very large.

Adverb '매우' modifies the adjective '크다'.

3

부모님의 경제력 덕분에 유학을 갔어요.

I went to study abroad thanks to my parents' economic power.

'-덕분에' means 'thanks to'.

4

결혼할 때 경제력도 확인해요.

They also check economic power when getting married.

'-도' means 'also'.

5

경제력을 갖추는 것은 어렵습니다.

Possessing economic power is difficult.

'-는 것' turns the verb phrase into a noun.

6

그는 경제력을 잃고 슬퍼했어요.

He lost his economic power and was sad.

'-고' connects two actions/states.

7

회사는 경제력을 키우기 위해 노력해요.

The company works hard to grow its economic power.

'-기 위해' means 'in order to'.

8

당신은 경제력이 충분합니까?

Do you have enough economic power?

Formal question ending '-습니까?'

1

경제력이 뒷받침되어야 꿈을 이룰 수 있다.

Economic power must be supportive to achieve dreams.

'-어야' indicates a necessary condition.

2

여성들의 경제력이 높아지면서 사회가 변하고 있다.

As women's economic power increases, society is changing.

'-면서' indicates simultaneous actions.

3

그 배우는 연기력뿐만 아니라 경제력도 상당하다.

That actor has considerable economic power as well as acting skills.

'-뿐만 아니라' means 'not only... but also'.

4

청년들의 경제력을 강화하기 위한 정책이 필요하다.

Policies are needed to strengthen the economic power of young people.

'-기 위한' modifies the following noun.

5

경제력 격차를 줄이는 것이 정부의 과제이다.

Reducing the gap in economic power is the government's task.

Compound noun '경제력 격차'.

6

그는 자신의 경제력을 과시하는 것을 좋아한다.

He likes to show off his economic power.

The verb '과시하다' means 'to show off'.

7

충분한 경제력이 없으면 독립하기 힘들다.

It is hard to be independent without sufficient economic power.

'-기 힘들다' means 'to be difficult to do'.

8

경제력을 회복하기 위해 저축을 시작했다.

I started saving to recover my economic power.

The verb '회복하다' means 'to recover'.

1

이 나라는 막강한 경제력을 바탕으로 외교적 영향력을 행사한다.

This country exercises diplomatic influence based on its immense economic power.

'-을 바탕으로' means 'based on'.

2

대기업의 경제력 집중은 중소기업의 성장을 저해할 수 있다.

The concentration of economic power in large corporations can hinder the growth of small businesses.

The verb '저해하다' means 'to hinder'.

3

개인의 경제력이 삶의 질을 결정하는 중요한 요소가 되었다.

An individual's economic power has become an important factor determining quality of life.

'-는 요소' means 'a factor that...'.

4

노후 대책을 위해 젊을 때부터 경제력을 쌓아야 한다.

One must build economic power from a young age for retirement planning.

'-아/어야 한다' expresses obligation.

5

그 회사는 뛰어난 기술력과 경제력을 동시에 갖추고 있다.

The company possesses both excellent technical skills and economic power.

Using '동시에' for 'at the same time'.

6

경제력이 뒷받침되지 않은 계획은 실패하기 쉽다.

Plans not backed by economic power are easy to fail.

Passive form '뒷받침되지 않은'.

7

소비자들의 경제력이 약화되면서 시장이 침체되었다.

The market stagnated as consumers' economic power weakened.

'-아/어지면서' shows a gradual change.

8

국가 경제력을 공정하게 분배하는 것이 사회적 정의이다.

Fairly distributing national economic power is social justice.

'-는 것' as a subject.

1

경제력의 편중은 사회적 갈등을 야기하는 주요 원인 중 하나이다.

The concentration of economic power is one of the main causes of social conflict.

The noun '편중' means 'biased distribution/concentration'.

2

지식 정보 사회에서는 정보가 곧 경제력이 된다.

In an information-based society, information itself becomes economic power.

'곧' emphasizes that the two things are equivalent.

3

그 기업은 압도적인 경제력을 동원하여 경쟁사를 인수했다.

The company mobilized its overwhelming economic power to acquire a competitor.

The verb '동원하다' means 'to mobilize'.

4

경제력이 정치적 권력으로 전이되는 과정을 분석해야 한다.

We must analyze the process by which economic power is transferred into political power.

The verb '전이되다' means 'to be transferred/shifted'.

5

신흥 경제국들의 경제력 신장은 기존 국제 질서에 도전하고 있다.

The growth of economic power in emerging economies is challenging the existing international order.

The noun '신장' means 'expansion/growth'.

6

무형 자산이 기업의 핵심적인 경제력으로 부상하고 있다.

Intangible assets are emerging as a core economic power for companies.

The verb '부상하다' means 'to emerge/rise to the surface'.

7

가계의 경제력 회복이 내수 진작의 관건이다.

The recovery of household economic power is the key to boosting domestic demand.

The noun '관건' means 'key/critical factor'.

8

경제력의 우위를 점하기 위한 국가 간의 경쟁이 치열하다.

Competition between nations to occupy the superior position of economic power is fierce.

The phrase '우위를 점하다' means 'to occupy a superior position'.

1

경제력은 단순한 부의 축적을 넘어, 존재의 양식을 규정하는 기제로 작용한다.

Economic power goes beyond simple accumulation of wealth and acts as a mechanism that defines the mode of existence.

The noun '기제' means 'mechanism'.

2

자본주의 체제하에서 경제력의 비대칭성은 필연적인 구조적 모순을 내포한다.

Under the capitalist system, the asymmetry of economic power implies inevitable structural contradictions.

The verb '내포하다' means 'to imply/contain'.

3

국가적 경제력의 쇠퇴는 지정학적 리스크를 증폭시키는 도화선이 될 수 있다.

The decline of national economic power can be a fuse that amplifies geopolitical risks.

The noun '도화선' means 'fuse/trigger'.

4

경제력의 정당성은 그것이 사회적 공익에 기여할 때 비로소 확보된다.

The legitimacy of economic power is only secured when it contributes to the social public interest.

'비로소' means 'only then' or 'for the first time'.

5

현대 사회에서 경제력은 신분제의 변형된 형태로 기능한다는 비판이 존재한다.

There is criticism that in modern society, economic power functions as a modified form of the caste system.

The phrase '변형된 형태' means 'modified form'.

6

글로벌 플랫폼 기업들의 경제력 팽창은 국가의 규제 권력을 무력화하고 있다.

The expansion of economic power of global platform companies is neutralizing the regulatory power of the state.

The verb '무력화하다' means 'to neutralize/render powerless'.

7

문화적 역량과 경제력의 결합은 한 나라의 소프트 파워를 극대화한다.

The combination of cultural capability and economic power maximizes a country's soft power.

The verb '극대화하다' means 'to maximize'.

8

경제력의 향방이 미래 신산업의 주도권을 결정짓는 척도가 될 것이다.

The direction of economic power will be the yardstick that determines leadership in future new industries.

The noun '척도' means 'yardstick/measure'.

Synonyms

재력 자금력 구매력

Antonyms

무능력 빈곤

Common Collocations

경제력을 갖추다
경제력을 키우다
경제력이 뒷받침되다
경제력을 상실하다
경제력을 과시하다
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