At the A1 level, '경제성' (gyeongjeseong) is a very advanced word that you likely won't use. However, you can think of it as a 'big word' for 'good price' or 'saving money.' At this stage, you focus on simple words like '싸다' (to be cheap) or '좋다' (to be good). Imagine you are buying a pencil. If the pencil is cheap and lasts a long time, a Korean adult might say it has '경제성.' You don't need to use this word yet, but if you see it in a shop or a newspaper, just remember it means 'making good use of money.' It's like saying a toy is 'worth the money.' You can start by recognizing the first part '경제' (gyeongje), which means 'economy.' Even though it's a B1 word, knowing it now will help you understand why adults talk about money so seriously!
At the A2 level, you are starting to talk about more than just basic needs. You might talk about shopping or choosing between two products. '경제성' is a noun that describes why one choice is better than another financially. For example, if you are comparing a bus and a taxi, the bus has better '경제성' because it's cheaper for the same trip. You might see this word on labels for energy-saving appliances. Look for the phrase '경제성이 있다' (to have economic feasibility). This is the most common way to use it. Instead of just saying 'It's cheap,' saying 'It has 경제성' sounds like you are thinking about the future and how much money you will save over time. It's a great word to recognize when you read advertisements or simple news clips about new products.
As a B1 learner, '경제성' is a word you should start using in your own speaking and writing, especially when discussing opinions. This level is about moving beyond 'good' and 'bad' to more specific descriptions. '경제성' allows you to talk about 'cost-effectiveness' or 'economic feasibility.' You can use it to explain your decisions: 'I chose this apartment because of its 경제성' (it's close to work and the rent is low). You should learn the common patterns like '경제성이 높다' (high feasibility) and '경제성이 떨어지다' (lacking feasibility). This word is very useful for the TOPIK exam, particularly in writing tasks where you have to compare different options or discuss environmental and social issues. It shows that you have an intermediate grasp of Hanja-based vocabulary and can discuss abstract concepts.
At the B2 level, you should be comfortable using '경제성' in professional or academic contexts. You should understand the nuance between '경제성' and similar words like '효율성' (efficiency) or '수익성' (profitability). At this level, you can participate in debates about public policy or business strategies. For example, you might argue that a new high-speed rail project is necessary for the public good, even if its '경제성' is currently low. You should also be able to use compound nouns like '경제성 분석' (economic feasibility analysis) or '경제성 평가' (economic evaluation). Your sentences should become more complex, using structures like '경제성 면에서 고려할 때...' (When considering from the perspective of economic feasibility...). This word is essential for reading editorials and watching news reports about the Korean economy and technology sectors.
For C1 learners, '경제성' is a standard part of your professional vocabulary. You should be able to discuss the intricate details of how '경제성' is calculated and how it impacts long-term planning. You will encounter this word in legal documents, high-level business proposals, and academic journals. You should understand how '경제성' intersects with concepts like '지속 가능성' (sustainability) and '기회 비용' (opportunity cost). At this level, you can use the word to critique complex systems: 'The government's focus on immediate 경제성 often overlooks long-term environmental consequences.' You should also be familiar with more obscure collocations and formal structures, such as '경제성을 담보하다' (to guarantee economic feasibility). Your use of the word should reflect a deep understanding of its Hanja roots and its role in formal Korean discourse.
At the C2 level, you use '경제성' with the same nuance and precision as a native speaker who is an expert in their field. You can navigate the subtle linguistic shifts when the word is used in different domains—from the '경제성' of a linguistic model to the '경제성' of a geopolitical strategy. You are aware of the historical evolution of the term and how it reflects South Korea's rapid economic development (the 'Miracle on the Han River'). You can use the word in sophisticated rhetorical ways, perhaps even ironically or metaphorically, to describe the 'economy' of a poem or a piece of art. Your mastery includes knowing when *not* to use it to avoid sounding overly clinical, and you can effortlessly switch between '경제성' and more poetic or archaic alternatives when the context demands a specific stylistic flair.

경제성 in 30 Seconds

  • 경제성 means 'economic feasibility' or 'cost-effectiveness,' focusing on whether an investment is worth the cost.
  • It is a formal noun commonly used in business, engineering, and news to evaluate projects and products.
  • Commonly paired with verbs like '있다' (to have), '높다' (to be high), and '분석하다' (to analyze).
  • It differs from '가성비' (casual 'value for money') by being more analytical and professional.

The word 경제성 (Gyeongjeseong) is a critical noun in the Korean language, particularly within business, technology, and environmental discussions. It is composed of three Hanja characters: 經 (경 - manage), 濟 (제 - aid/benefit), and 性 (성 - nature/quality). Together, they form a concept that translates most accurately to 'economic feasibility' or 'cost-effectiveness.' However, its meaning extends beyond just being 'cheap.' It describes the inherent quality of a project, product, or action that justifies its cost through the value or efficiency it provides. When Koreans use this word, they are assessing whether the investment of money, time, and resources is worth the final outcome. If something has high 경제성, it means it is a smart financial choice; if it lacks 경제성, it is considered wasteful or impractical regardless of its performance.

Business Context
In corporate meetings, you will often hear executives talk about '경제성을 검토하다' (reviewing economic feasibility). This means they are looking at the ROI (Return on Investment). A project might be technologically advanced, but if the production cost is too high for the market to bear, it is said to 'lack 경제성.'
Consumer Context
When buying a car, a consumer might look at fuel efficiency. A hybrid car has high 경제성 over time because even though the initial price is higher, the savings on fuel make it a better long-term value. Here, the word focuses on the efficiency of resource use.
Environmental Context
Renewable energy sources like solar power are often debated in terms of 경제성. As the technology improves and costs drop, their 경제성 increases, making them more viable alternatives to fossil fuels.

이 모델은 초기 비용은 비싸지만, 유지비가 적어 경제성이 뛰어납니다. (This model has a high initial cost, but its maintenance cost is low, so its economic efficiency is excellent.)

Furthermore, the word is frequently paired with verbs like '있다' (to have/exist), '없다' (to not have), '높다' (to be high), and '떨어지다' (to fall/be low). In academic papers, you might see it used in the context of '경제성 분석' (cost-benefit analysis). This analytical approach is what separates a simple purchase from a strategic investment. In modern Korea, where efficiency is highly valued (the 'Pali-Pali' culture), evaluating the 경제성 of every decision is a common habit among both individuals and organizations. Whether it's choosing a route for a new subway line or deciding which smartphone to buy, the underlying question is always: 'Does this make economic sense?' This word encapsulates that entire evaluation process into a single, professional-sounding noun.

태양광 발전의 경제성을 높이기 위해 정부 보조금이 지급됩니다. (Government subsidies are provided to increase the economic feasibility of solar power generation.)

Using 경제성 correctly requires understanding its role as a noun that describes a state or quality. It is most commonly used as the subject or object of a sentence involving evaluation. To master this word, one must learn the specific verbs it typically accompanies. The most basic construction is '[Subject] + 은/는 + 경제성이 있다/없다.' This is the standard way to say something is or isn't cost-effective.

Positive Evaluation
When you want to praise the efficiency of something, use '경제성이 높다' (high economic efficiency) or '경제성이 뛰어나다' (excellent economic efficiency). For example: '이 하이브리드 자동차는 경제성이 매우 높습니다' (This hybrid car has very high economic efficiency).
Negative Evaluation
Conversely, if a project is losing money or costs too much to maintain, you would say '경제성이 낮다' (low economic efficiency) or '경제성이 떨어진다' (economic efficiency is falling/lacking). Example: '오래된 기계는 수리비가 많이 들어서 경제성이 떨어집니다' (Old machines lack economic feasibility because they require high repair costs).

대량 생산을 통해 제품의 경제성을 확보했습니다. (We secured the economic feasibility of the product through mass production.)

In more formal or technical writing, '경제성' is often part of a compound noun. '경제성 분석' (Economic feasibility analysis) is perhaps the most frequent. You might also encounter '경제성 검토' (Feasibility review) or '경제성 평가' (Economic evaluation). These terms are staples in engineering, architecture, and public policy. For instance, before a new bridge is built, the government must conduct a '경제성 분석' to see if the toll revenue and time saved by citizens outweigh the construction costs.

Another nuanced use involves the particle '-면에서' (in terms of). You can say '경제성 면에서' to mean 'from an economic standpoint.' For example: '경제성 면에서 보면 이 계획은 무리가 있습니다' (From an economic standpoint, this plan is unreasonable). This allows you to isolate the financial aspect of a multi-faceted problem, acknowledging that while something might be beautiful or innovative, it fails the money test. Mastering these patterns allows you to participate in higher-level Korean conversations about society and business.

우리는 품질뿐만 아니라 경제성도 고려해야 합니다. (We must consider not only quality but also economic feasibility.)

You will encounter 경제성 in several specific environments in Korea. First and foremost is the evening news and business newspapers (like Maeil Business Newspaper or Korea Economic Daily). Reporters often use it when discussing government infrastructure projects, such as the construction of the GTX (Great Train eXpress) or new airports. If a project's '경제성' is low, it becomes a major political talking point, often leading to debates about wasting taxpayer money.

Corporate Offices
During a product development meeting at a company like Samsung or LG, engineers and marketers will debate the '경제성' of a new feature. If adding a high-end camera sensor increases the phone's price too much without attracting enough buyers, the team might decide the sensor 'lacks 경제성' and opt for a more balanced alternative.
Tech Reviews and Blogs
On YouTube channels that review gadgets or household appliances, reviewers often use '경제성' to describe 'bang for your buck' (가성비, which is a related but more casual concept). They might say, '이 세탁기는 전기료가 적게 나와서 경제성이 좋습니다' (This washing machine is economical because it uses little electricity).

정부는 신도시 건설의 경제성이 부족하다는 결론을 내렸습니다. (The government concluded that the economic feasibility of building the new city was insufficient.)

You will also hear this word in educational settings, particularly in economics or social studies classes. It is a key term in the Korean national curriculum. Students learn that 'rational choice' involves maximizing 경제성. In university-level engineering courses, students are taught that a design is not complete until its 경제성 has been proven through rigorous calculation. This word is the bridge between pure science and the reality of the marketplace.

Finally, it appears in advertisements for B2B (business-to-business) services. Logistics companies, cloud computing providers, and industrial machinery manufacturers all promise to improve their clients' 경제성. In these ads, the word implies that using their service will lead to higher profits and lower operational costs. It is a word that signals maturity and serious consideration of value, making it indispensable for anyone navigating the professional landscape in South Korea.

전문가들은 이번 투자의 경제성에 대해 긍정적인 전망을 내놓았습니다. (Experts have released a positive outlook on the economic feasibility of this investment.)

One of the most common mistakes learners make is using 경제성 interchangeably with 경제 (economy) or 경제적 (economical). While they share the same root, their grammatical functions and nuances differ. '경제' is the system itself (e.g., '한국 경제' - the Korean economy). '경제적' is an adjective meaning 'related to the economy' or 'saving money' (e.g., '경제적인 차' - an economical car). '경제성' is the *noun* representing the *quality* of being economical. You cannot say '이 차는 경제성이다' (This car is economic feasibility); you must say '이 차는 경제성이 있다' (This car has economic feasibility).

Confusion with 효율성 (Efficiency)
Learners often confuse '경제성' with '효율성' (hyoyulseong). While related, '효율성' focuses on the ratio of output to input in a general sense (like physics or time management). '경제성' specifically focuses on the *monetary* and *resource-cost* aspect. A machine can be 'efficient' (효율적) because it works fast, but if it's too expensive to buy, it might lack '경제성.'
Misusing with People
Never use '경제성' to describe a person's character. If you want to say someone is frugal or good with money, use '경제적이다' or '검소하다.' Saying a person has '경제성' sounds like you are evaluating them as an object or a project for investment, which can be dehumanizing or just plain weird.

❌ 이 방법은 매우 경제성합니다. (This method is very economic feasibility - Grammatically incorrect)
✅ 이 방법은 경제성이 매우 높습니다. (This method has very high economic feasibility - Correct)

Another mistake is overusing it in casual conversation. '경제성' is a formal, academic, or professional term. If you are talking to a friend about buying a cheap coffee, saying '이 커피는 경제성이 좋아' (This coffee has good economic feasibility) sounds like you're reading from a textbook. In casual settings, use 가성비 (price-to-performance ratio) instead. '가성비' is the slangy, everyday cousin of '경제성.' Use '경제성' for reports, news, and business; use '가성비' for lunch and gadgets.

Lastly, be careful with the verb '경제성을 맞추다.' While it sounds like 'to match economic feasibility,' it's more natural to say '경제성을 확보하다' (to secure/ensure feasibility) or '경제성을 갖추다' (to be equipped with feasibility). Using the wrong verb can make your professional Korean sound clunky. Pay attention to how news anchors collocate this word with verbs to avoid these subtle errors.

To truly master 경제성, you should know its synonyms and how they differ in nuance. The most common alternative is 실용성 (silyongseong), meaning 'practicality' or 'utility.' While '경제성' focuses on the money and resources, '실용성' focuses on how useful something is in daily life. A giant, cheap bucket might have high 경제성 (it's cheap and big) but low 실용성 if it doesn't fit in your sink.

경제성 vs. 효율성 (Efficiency)
'효율성' is about the process—getting the most output from the least input. '경제성' is the result—is it financially worth it? A highly efficient engine (효율성) might be made of gold, making its '경제성' zero because it's too expensive to ever turn a profit.
경제성 vs. 가성비 (Price-Performance Ratio)
'가성비' (Gaseongbi) is an abbreviation of '가격 대비 성능비' (Price to performance ratio). It is the colloquial version of '경제성.' Use '가성비' when talking about a $5 meal that tastes like a $20 meal. Use '경제성' when discussing the viability of a 10-year infrastructure project.
경제성 vs. 타당성 (Feasibility)
'타당성' (Tadangseong) is a broader term meaning 'validity' or 'feasibility.' In business, '사업 타당성 조사' (Business feasibility study) includes '경제성' as one of its parts, but also looks at legal, technical, and social factors.

이 계획은 경제성은 낮지만, 공익적 가치는 높습니다. (This plan has low economic feasibility, but its value for the public interest is high.)

In some contexts, you might use 수익성 (suikseong), which means 'profitability.' The difference is subtle: '경제성' is often used for saving money or being efficient with resources (often in public or non-profit contexts), while '수익성' specifically means the ability to generate a net profit (strictly for-profit contexts). If a government builds a park, they look at '경제성' (is it a good use of tax money?), not '수익성' (will the park make money?), because parks usually don't charge admission. Understanding these distinctions will help you choose the right word for the right audience, elevating your Korean from functional to sophisticated.

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

The word '경제' (Gyeongje) is an abbreviation of the classical Chinese phrase '경세제민' (經世濟民), which means 'to govern the world and save the people.' Adding '성' (-ness) turns this grand political philosophy into a modern technical metric.

Pronunciation Guide

UK ɡjʌŋ.dʑe.sʌŋ
US ɡjʌŋ.dʑe.sʌŋ
Stress is evenly distributed in Korean, but a slight emphasis on the first syllable 'Gyeong' is common in clear speech.
Rhymes With
가능성 (ganeungseong - possibility) 효율성 (hyoyulseong - efficiency) 필요성 (pilyoseong - necessity) 중요성 (jungyoseong - importance) 일관성 (ilgwanseong - consistency) 객관성 (gaekgwanseong - objectivity) 창의성 (changuiseong - creativity) 다양성 (dayangseong - diversity)
Common Errors
  • Pronouncing 'Gyeong' as 'Gee-ong' (two syllables). It is one fluid sound.
  • Pronouncing 'Seong' like the English word 'Sung'. It should be an open 'o' sound.
  • Stress on the last syllable, which makes it sound unnatural.
  • Confusing the 'j' sound in 'je' with a hard 'z' sound.
  • Mispronouncing the 'eo' (ʌ) vowel as 'oh'.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 3/5

Common in news and labels, but requires knowledge of Hanja-based nouns.

Writing 4/5

Requires understanding of formal collocations and particle usage.

Speaking 3/5

Easy to pronounce, but knowing when to use it vs. '가성비' is tricky.

Listening 3/5

Frequently heard in news; context usually makes it clear.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

경제 (Economy) 돈 (Money) 비싸다 (Expensive) 싸다 (Cheap) 성질 (Nature/Quality)

Learn Next

효율성 (Efficiency) 타당성 (Feasibility) 수익성 (Profitability) 가성비 (Value for money) 합리적 (Rational)

Advanced

기회 비용 (Opportunity cost) 한계 효용 (Marginal utility) 규모의 경제 (Economies of scale)

Grammar to Know

Noun + -성 (-ness/-ity)

가능성 (Possibility), 중요성 (Importance)

Noun + 면에서 (In terms of)

가격 면에서 (In terms of price)

Noun-modifying Adjective + Noun

높은 경제성 (High economic feasibility)

Noun + -적 (Turns noun into adjective)

경제적 (Economical)

Noun + -성 + 을/를 + Verb

경제성을 높이다 (Increase economic feasibility)

Examples by Level

1

이 차는 경제성이 좋아요.

This car has good economic efficiency.

Noun + 이/가 + 좋아요 (Basic descriptive sentence).

2

경제성이 뭐예요?

What is '경제성'?

Question form using '뭐예요'.

3

그것은 경제성이 없어요.

That doesn't have economic feasibility.

Negative existence '없어요'.

4

경제성이 중요해요.

Economic efficiency is important.

Adjective '중요해요' used with a noun subject.

5

이 집은 경제성이 있습니다.

This house has economic feasibility.

Formal ending '-습니다'.

6

우리는 경제성을 생각해요.

We think about economic efficiency.

Object marker '을/를' with the verb '생각하다'.

7

경제성이 높은 물건을 사요.

I buy things with high economic efficiency.

Noun-modifying form '높은' before '물건'.

8

경제성 때문에 이 제품을 골랐어요.

I chose this product because of its economic efficiency.

'-때문에' meaning 'because of'.

1

전기차는 경제성 면에서 유리합니다.

Electric cars are advantageous in terms of economic feasibility.

'-면에서' meaning 'in terms of'.

2

이 계획은 경제성이 떨어집니다.

This plan lacks economic feasibility.

Verb '떨어지다' used to mean 'to be lacking' or 'to fall'.

3

경제성을 고려해서 결정하세요.

Please decide considering the economic feasibility.

'-아서/어서' indicating a reason or sequence.

4

새로운 기술은 경제성이 뛰어납니다.

The new technology has excellent economic efficiency.

Adjective '뛰어나다' meaning 'excellent'.

5

중고차를 사는 것이 경제성이 더 높아요.

Buying a used car has higher economic feasibility.

'-는 것' to turn a verb phrase into a noun.

6

경제성이 있는 투자를 하고 싶어요.

I want to make an investment that has economic feasibility.

'-고 싶다' expressing desire.

7

그 사업은 경제성이 부족합니다.

That business lacks economic feasibility.

Adjective '부족하다' meaning 'insufficient'.

8

경제성을 따져보는 것이 중요합니다.

It is important to weigh the economic feasibility.

'-아/어 보다' meaning 'to try doing' or 'to examine'.

1

기업들은 신제품의 경제성을 철저히 검토합니다.

Companies thoroughly review the economic feasibility of new products.

Adverb '철저히' (thoroughly) modifying '검토하다'.

2

이 공법은 공사 기간을 단축하여 경제성을 높였습니다.

This construction method increased economic efficiency by shortening the construction period.

'-하여' (shortened form of -하여서) showing means/method.

3

환경 보호와 경제성을 동시에 만족시키기는 어렵습니다.

It is difficult to satisfy both environmental protection and economic feasibility at the same time.

'-기는 어렵다' meaning 'it is difficult to...'.

4

태양광 발전은 초기 비용이 많이 들지만 경제성이 좋습니다.

Solar power generation has high initial costs but good economic feasibility.

'-지만' meaning 'but'.

5

경제성이 없다는 이유로 프로젝트가 중단되었습니다.

The project was halted on the grounds that it lacked economic feasibility.

'-는다는 이유로' meaning 'on the grounds/reason that...'.

6

정부는 이 도로 건설의 경제성을 다시 평가하기로 했습니다.

The government decided to re-evaluate the economic feasibility of this road construction.

'-기로 하다' meaning 'to decide to'.

7

소비자들은 가격뿐만 아니라 경제성도 꼼꼼히 따집니다.

Consumers meticulously weigh not only the price but also the economic feasibility.

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

8

이 기계는 에너지 소비가 적어 경제성 면에서 우수합니다.

This machine is excellent in terms of economic efficiency due to its low energy consumption.

'-아/어' as a causal connective.

1

전문가들은 해당 사업의 경제성 분석 보고서를 제출했습니다.

Experts submitted an economic feasibility analysis report for the project in question.

Compound noun '경제성 분석 보고서'.

2

원자재 가격 상승으로 인해 제품의 경제성이 악화되었습니다.

The economic feasibility of the product deteriorated due to rising raw material prices.

'-로 인해' meaning 'due to' or 'caused by'.

3

우리는 기술적 타당성과 경제성을 모두 확보해야 합니다.

We must secure both technical validity and economic feasibility.

'-아/어 야 하다' expressing obligation.

4

대중교통 확충은 경제성보다는 복지 차원에서 접근해야 합니다.

Expanding public transportation should be approached from a welfare perspective rather than economic feasibility.

'-보다는' meaning 'rather than'.

5

경제성을 극대화하기 위해 공정 과정을 개선했습니다.

We improved the manufacturing process to maximize economic efficiency.

'-기 위해' meaning 'in order to'.

6

수익성이 보장되지 않으면 경제성이 있다고 보기 어렵습니다.

It is hard to say it has economic feasibility if profitability is not guaranteed.

'-지 않으면' (if not) and '-기 어렵다' (hard to).

7

이번 신도시 개발 계획은 경제성 논란에 휩싸였습니다.

This new city development plan was engulfed in a controversy over its economic feasibility.

Passive expression '휩싸이다' (to be engulfed/surrounded).

8

규모의 경제를 실현함으로써 제품의 경제성을 높일 수 있습니다.

By realizing economies of scale, we can increase the economic feasibility of the product.

'-함으로써' meaning 'by doing' or 'through'.

1

해당 프로젝트는 경제성 평가 결과 부적격 판정을 받았습니다.

The project was judged ineligible as a result of the economic feasibility evaluation.

Formal noun-based sentence structure.

2

단순한 비용 절감을 넘어 장기적인 경제성을 도모해야 합니다.

We must strive for long-term economic feasibility beyond simple cost reduction.

'-를 넘어' meaning 'beyond' or 'surpassing'.

3

정부는 경제성 논리에만 매몰되어 사회적 가치를 간과해서는 안 됩니다.

The government should not overlook social values by being buried only in the logic of economic feasibility.

'-해서는 안 된다' meaning 'must not'.

4

수소 에너지의 경제성을 확보하는 것이 탄소 중립의 핵심 과제입니다.

Securing the economic feasibility of hydrogen energy is a key task for carbon neutrality.

Noun phrase subject with '핵심 과제' (key task).

5

민간 투자 사업의 경우 경제성 확보가 최우선 순위로 꼽힙니다.

In the case of private investment projects, securing economic feasibility is considered the top priority.

'-로 꼽히다' meaning 'to be counted/considered as'.

6

예비타당성 조사에서 경제성 수치가 기준치에 미달했습니다.

The economic feasibility figures fell short of the threshold in the preliminary feasibility study.

Technical term '예비타당성 조사' (pre-feasibility study).

7

기술 혁신은 생산 단가를 낮추어 경제성을 획기적으로 개선합니다.

Technological innovation drastically improves economic feasibility by lowering production costs.

Adverb '획기적으로' (drastically/groundbreakingly).

8

경제성만을 강조하다 보면 삶의 질이 저하될 우려가 있습니다.

If one emphasizes only economic feasibility, there is a risk that the quality of life may deteriorate.

'-다 보면' (if one keeps doing) and '-을 우려가 있다' (there is a risk).

1

거시경제적 관점에서 경제성을 논하는 것은 다층적인 분석을 요합니다.

Discussing economic feasibility from a macroeconomic perspective requires multi-layered analysis.

Formal verb '요하다' (to require).

2

자본의 논리에 따른 경제성 평가는 종종 인본주의적 가치와 충돌합니다.

Economic feasibility evaluations based on the logic of capital often clash with humanistic values.

Abstract academic phrasing.

3

해당 인프라 구축의 경제성은 미래 세대의 편익까지 고려하여 산정되어야 합니다.

The economic feasibility of building said infrastructure should be calculated considering even the benefits to future generations.

Passive '산정되어야 하다' (must be calculated).

4

지정학적 리스크는 공급망의 경제성을 저해하는 주요 요인으로 작용합니다.

Geopolitical risks act as a major factor hindering the economic feasibility of supply chains.

'-로 작용하다' (to act/function as).

5

포스트 코로나 시대의 경제성은 단순 효율성을 넘어선 회복탄력성을 포함합니다.

Economic feasibility in the post-pandemic era includes resilience that goes beyond simple efficiency.

Concept of '회복탄력성' (resilience).

6

공공재의 경제성을 평가할 때는 비시장적 가치의 화폐화 과정이 수반됩니다.

Evaluating the economic feasibility of public goods involves the process of monetizing non-market values.

Technical term '화폐화' (monetization).

7

혁신적 비즈니스 모델은 기존 시장의 경제성 패러다임을 근본적으로 뒤흔듭니다.

Innovative business models fundamentally shake the economic feasibility paradigm of existing markets.

Metaphorical verb '뒤흔들다' (to shake up).

8

경제성 분석의 객관성을 담보하기 위해 독립적인 기구의 검증이 필수적입니다.

Verification by an independent body is essential to guarantee the objectivity of economic feasibility analysis.

'-을 담보하다' (to guarantee/secure).

Synonyms

Antonyms

비경제성 낭비

Common Collocations

경제성이 있다
경제성이 높다
경제성이 떨어지다
경제성을 검토하다
경제성 분석
경제성을 확보하다
경제성 평가
경제성을 갖추다
경제성 면에서
경제성 논리

Common Phrases

경제성이 없다

— To be not worth the cost; to be economically unfeasible.

그 사업은 경제성이 없어서 포기했다.

경제성이 뛰어나다

— To be exceptionally cost-effective or efficient.

이 엔진은 경제성이 뛰어납니다.

경제성을 따지다

— To calculate or weigh the economic benefits vs. costs.

너무 경제성만 따지지 마세요.

경제성을 고려하다

— To take economic feasibility into account when making a decision.

우리는 경제성을 고려하여 재료를 선택했다.

경제성을 높이다

— To improve the cost-effectiveness of something.

기술 개발을 통해 경제성을 높여야 합니다.

경제성이 부족하다

— To have insufficient economic feasibility.

예산에 비해 경제성이 부족하다는 지적이 있다.

경제성 분석 보고서

— A formal document analyzing the feasibility of a project.

경제성 분석 보고서를 작성해 주세요.

경제성 수치

— The numerical data representing economic feasibility.

경제성 수치가 예상보다 낮게 나왔다.

경제성 위주

— Focusing primarily on economic feasibility.

경제성 위주의 정책은 비판을 받기도 한다.

경제성 검증

— The process of verifying if something is truly cost-effective.

철저한 경제성 검증이 필요합니다.

Often Confused With

경제성 vs 경제 (Economy)

Economy is the system; 경제성 is the quality of efficiency within it.

경제성 vs 경제적 (Economical)

An adjective meaning 'saving money'; 경제성 is the noun form.

경제성 vs 효율성 (Efficiency)

Efficiency is general; 경제성 is specifically about money/resources.

Idioms & Expressions

"수지타산이 맞다"

— To have the income and expenses balance out favorably; to be worth the effort/money.

이 일은 수지타산이 잘 맞아요.

Common
"본전을 뽑다"

— To get one's money's worth; to recover the initial cost.

이 옷은 많이 입어서 본전을 뽑았어요.

Informal
"배보다 배꼽이 더 크다"

— The 'belly button' is bigger than the 'belly'; used when side costs exceed the main cost.

수리비가 더 나와서 배보다 배꼽이 더 커요.

Colloquial
"가성비 갑"

— The 'king' of price-performance ratio; extremely good value.

이 편의점 도시락은 가성비 갑이에요.

Slang
"밑 빠진 독에 물 붓기"

— Pouring water into a jar with a broken bottom; a hopeless waste of resources.

경제성 없는 사업에 투자하는 건 밑 빠진 독에 물 붓기다.

Common
"싼 게 비지떡"

— Cheap things are just bean-curd dregs; you get what you pay for (low quality).

너무 싼 것만 찾다가 싼 게 비지떡이라는 걸 깨달았다.

Common
"돈값을 하다"

— To be worth the price paid.

이 비싼 카메라는 정말 돈값을 하네요.

Informal
"계산기를 두드리다"

— To 'tap the calculator'; to carefully weigh the financial pros and cons.

그는 투자를 하기 전에 한참 계산기를 두드렸다.

Metaphorical
"남는 장사"

— A 'profitable business'; a deal where one gains more than they spent.

이건 정말 남는 장사예요.

Informal
"허리띠를 졸라매다"

— To tighten one's belt; to be frugal to improve personal '경제성'.

경제성이 떨어지는 시기에는 허리띠를 졸라매야 한다.

Common

Easily Confused

경제성 vs 수익성

Both involve money.

수익성 is about making a profit; 경제성 is about general cost-effectiveness (saving or earning).

공공 도서관은 수익성은 없지만 경제성은 있을 수 있다.

경제성 vs 가성비

Both mean 'good value.'

가성비 is casual and subjective; 경제성 is formal and analytical.

이 점심은 가성비가 좋다. (Casual) / 이 프로젝트는 경제성이 높다. (Formal)

경제성 vs 타당성

Both are used in feasibility studies.

타당성 includes legal and technical aspects; 경제성 is just the financial part.

사업 타당성 조사에는 경제성 분석이 포함된다.

경제성 vs 실용성

Both relate to being 'good' choices.

실용성 is about being useful; 경제성 is about being worth the money.

이 가방은 실용성은 좋지만 경제성은 낮다 (비싸다).

경제성 vs 절약

Both involve saving.

절약 is the act of saving; 경제성 is the quality that allows for saving.

경제성이 높은 전구를 쓰면 에너지가 절약된다.

Sentence Patterns

A2

[Subject]은/는 경제성이 좋아요.

이 차는 경제성이 좋아요.

B1

[Subject]은/는 경제성이 높아서 인기가 많아요.

이 제품은 경제성이 높아서 인기가 많아요.

B1

경제성 면에서 보면 [Subject]이/가 더 나아요.

경제성 면에서 보면 이 방법이 더 나아요.

B2

[Subject]의 경제성을 분석할 필요가 있습니다.

이 사업의 경제성을 분석할 필요가 있습니다.

B2

경제성이 떨어진다는 지적이 있습니다.

그 계획은 경제성이 떨어진다는 지적이 있습니다.

C1

경제성 확보를 최우선 과제로 삼아야 합니다.

우리는 경제성 확보를 최우선 과제로 삼아야 합니다.

C1

경제성 논리에 매몰되어서는 안 됩니다.

정부는 경제성 논리에 매몰되어서는 안 됩니다.

C2

경제성 평가의 객관성을 담보하기 위해...

경제성 평가의 객관성을 담보하기 위해 외부 감사를 받았습니다.

Word Family

Nouns

경제 (economy)
경제학 (economics)
경제학자 (economist)
경제인 (businessman)

Verbs

경제하다 (to economize - rare, usually '절약하다' is used)

Adjectives

경제적이다 (to be economical/economic)

Related

가성비 (cost-effectiveness)
효율 (efficiency)
수익 (profit)
비용 (cost)
타당성 (feasibility)

How to Use It

frequency

Very common in professional and media contexts; moderately common in serious daily discussions.

Common Mistakes
  • 이 방법은 매우 경제성해요. 이 방법은 경제성이 매우 높아요.

    경제성 is a noun, not a 하-verb. You cannot conjugate it directly.

  • 그 사람은 경제성이 있어요. 그 사람은 경제적이에요. (or) 그 사람은 검소해요.

    Don't use 경제성 to describe human personality; it sounds like you are evaluating a person's price tag.

  • 경제성을 사다. 경제성을 확보하다.

    You don't 'buy' economic feasibility; you 'secure' or 'ensure' it.

  • 경제은 중요해요. 경제성은 중요해요. (or) 경제가 중요해요.

    Learners often drop the '성' when they mean 'feasibility' or use '경제' when they mean 'efficiency.'

  • 가성비와 경제성은 완전히 같아요. 가성비는 일상어이고, 경제성은 전문 용어예요.

    They are similar but have different registers. Using '경제성' for a cup of coffee sounds overly formal.

Tips

Use with '있다/없다'

The easiest way to use this word is with '있다' (has) or '없다' (doesn't have). It's the most natural structure for daily use.

Hanja Hint

Remember the '성' (性) at the end. It always indicates a 'quality' or 'nature' of something, like 'possibility' or 'creativity'.

Business Presentations

When presenting a new idea at work, always include a slide on '경제성 분석.' It shows you are thinking about the company's bottom line.

Long-term vs. Short-term

경제성 usually implies a long-term view. A cheap item might be '싸다' (short-term), but an item with '경제성' is a good investment (long-term).

Particle Match

Use the particle '면에서' (in the aspect of) to say 'In terms of economic feasibility...' (경제성 면에서...).

TOPIK Writing

If the prompt asks you to compare two options, use '경제성' as one of your comparison points to get a higher score.

News Keywords

When you hear '경제성,' get ready to hear numbers and percentages. It's a signal that data is coming.

Korean Values

Koreans value '실속' (substance/actual profit). '경제성' is the formal word for finding that substance in a deal.

Don't Overuse

If you've already used '경제성' twice in a paragraph, switch to '수익성' or '효율성' to keep your writing varied.

The 'E' Word

Just associate 'Gyeong-je' with 'Economy' and 'Seong' with 'Status.' Economic Status!

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of 'Gyeong-je' as 'Gyeong-ju' (a race). In the race of money, the 'Seong' (star) is the one who is most efficient. So, Gyeongjeseong is the 'star of the money race'—the most cost-effective choice.

Visual Association

Imagine a balance scale. On one side is a small pile of coins (low cost), and on the other side is a huge, shiny diamond (high value). The scale is perfectly balanced. That balance is '경제성.'

Word Web

Economy Efficiency Money Feasibility Analysis Business Value Resources

Challenge

Try to find one item in your room that has 'high 경제성' (you use it every day and it was cheap) and one that has 'low 경제성' (it was expensive but you never use it). Explain why using the word '경제성'.

Word Origin

From the Hanja 經濟性. 經 (경) means to pass through or manage; 濟 (제) means to cross a river or aid; 性 (성) means nature or quality.

Original meaning: The nature of managing and aiding (the world/resources).

Sino-Korean (Hanja-derived).

Cultural Context

Be careful when using '경제성' to discuss social welfare or art, as it can sound cold or overly capitalistic if used without acknowledging human value.

In English, we often say 'bang for your buck' or 'cost-effective.' '경제성' is slightly more formal, similar to 'economic viability' in a business report.

The 4-Major Rivers Project (4대강 사업) - A major Korean infrastructure project often debated for its '경제성'. K-TX (Korea Train eXpress) - Often cited as a success in terms of national '경제성'. The movie 'Parasite' - Indirectly touches on the '경제성' of human labor in a capitalist society.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Buying a Car

  • 연비가 좋아서 경제성이 높아요.
  • 유지비 면에서 경제성이 있어요.
  • 경제성을 생각하면 이 모델이죠.
  • 초기 비용보다 경제성이 중요해요.

Business Meeting

  • 경제성 분석 결과가 어떻게 나왔나요?
  • 경제성이 없으면 사업을 접어야 합니다.
  • 경제성을 확보하는 방안을 찾아보세요.
  • 기술력은 좋지만 경제성이 관건입니다.

Environmental Discussion

  • 재생 에너지의 경제성이 좋아지고 있어요.
  • 환경과 경제성을 동시에 잡아야 합니다.
  • 경제성 논리로만 접근하면 안 됩니다.
  • 장기적인 경제성을 따져봐야 해요.

Home Appliances

  • 에너지 효율 등급이 높아야 경제성이 좋아요.
  • 경제성이 뛰어난 세탁기를 추천해 주세요.
  • 전기료를 아껴주니 경제성이 있네요.
  • 비싸더라도 경제성을 따지면 이게 나아요.

Government Projects

  • 예비타당성 조사에서 경제성이 입증되었습니다.
  • 경제성 부족으로 공사가 지연되고 있어요.
  • 국민의 세금이므로 경제성이 중요합니다.
  • 경제성 평가 기준을 강화해야 합니다.

Conversation Starters

"새로 나온 전기차의 경제성에 대해 어떻게 생각하세요?"

"물건을 살 때 브랜드보다 경제성을 더 중요하게 보시나요?"

"태양광 패널을 설치하는 것이 경제성이 있을까요?"

"요즘 물가가 너무 올라서 모든 일의 경제성을 따지게 돼요."

"회사에서 추진하는 새 프로젝트의 경제성 분석이 끝났나요?"

Journal Prompts

최근에 산 물건 중에서 경제성이 가장 좋았던 것은 무엇인가요? 그 이유는?

만약 내가 회사를 운영한다면, 경제성과 환경 보호 중 무엇을 더 우선시할까요?

우리 동네에 새로운 도서관을 짓는 것이 경제성 면에서 어떤 장점이 있을까요?

나의 소비 습관을 경제성 관점에서 평가해 본다면?

미래의 에너지원으로서 수소 에너지의 경제성에 대한 나의 생각은?

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

No. Something can be very expensive but have high '경제성' if it lasts forever or saves money in the long run (like a high-quality solar panel). Conversely, something cheap that breaks immediately has low '경제성'.

No, that would be very strange. To describe a person who is good with money, use '경제적이다' or '검소하다' (frugal).

Use '가성비' when talking about food, clothes, or personal gadgets with friends. Use '경제성' in essays, work meetings, or when discussing serious investments.

You can say '경제적이다' (adjective) or '경제성이 있다' (noun phrase). '경제성이 높다' is also very common.

It means something is losing its economic value or is no longer worth the cost, often due to high maintenance or low output.

Yes, especially in engineering and applied sciences where researchers must prove that their new invention can be produced at a reasonable cost.

It is a 'Cost-Benefit Analysis.' It's a formal process of adding up all the costs and comparing them to the benefits of a project.

Usually, '효율성' (efficiency) is better for time. '경제성' almost always implies a monetary or resource-based value.

Yes, it means 'uneconomical nature' or 'lack of feasibility,' but it is less common than just saying '경제성이 없다'.

Very common. It appears frequently in Level 4-6 reading and writing sections, particularly in topics related to the environment, technology, and society.

Test Yourself 180 questions

writing

Translate to Korean: 'This car has high economic feasibility.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

Use '경제성 면에서' in a sentence about public transport.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

Translate to English: '경제성이 없어서 프로젝트가 중단되었다.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

Write a sentence using '경제성 분석'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

Translate: 'We must improve the economic feasibility of solar energy.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

Write a sentence using '경제성이 떨어지다'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

Translate: 'Cost-effectiveness is important when buying a house.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

Combine '경제성' and '확보하다' into a sentence.

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Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

Translate: 'From an economic standpoint, this plan is bad.'

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Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

Write a short paragraph (2 sentences) about why you chose your phone using '경제성'.

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Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

Translate: 'The government is reviewing the economic feasibility of the new bridge.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

Use '경제성이 뛰어나다' in a sentence about a new technology.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

Translate: 'Is there any economic feasibility in this investment?'

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writing

Write a sentence using '비경제성'.

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writing

Translate: 'The report shows high economic feasibility.'

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writing

Use '경제성' to compare a bus and a taxi.

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writing

Translate: 'We need to consider economic feasibility along with quality.'

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Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
writing

Write a sentence about 'energy efficiency' (에너지 효율) and '경제성'.

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writing

Translate: 'The project was judged unfeasible.'

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writing

Write a sentence using '경제성 논리'.

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Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Explain why you think public transportation has high '경제성'.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Describe a product you own that has high '경제성'.

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speaking

Discuss the difference between '가성비' and '경제성'.

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speaking

How can a company improve the '경제성' of its products?

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Why is '경제성 분석' important for the government?

Read this aloud:

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speaking

If you were a CEO, would you prioritize '경제성' or 'innovation'?

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Is it always good to choose the option with the highest '경제성'?

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Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Do you think solar energy has enough '경제성' today?

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speaking

What happens if a project's '경제성' falls during construction?

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speaking

Use '경제성' in a sentence about your favorite hobby.

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Talk about a time you bought something with low '경제성'.

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Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

How does '경제성' relate to environmental protection?

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speaking

Pronounce '경제성 분석' clearly.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Ask a colleague if they have reviewed the economic feasibility.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say 'This plan lacks economic feasibility' in formal Korean.

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Why do Koreans use '가성비' so much in daily life?

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Describe a '비경제적' habit you want to change.

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speaking

Is '경제성' more important than 'brand name'?

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speaking

Explain why electricity-saving appliances have high '경제성'.

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Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Summarize the meaning of '경제성' in your own words.

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Listen to this sentence: '이 사업은 경제성이 낮아서 승인되지 않았습니다.' Why was the project not approved?

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Listen: '경제성 분석 결과, 수익이 비용보다 두 배 많습니다.' What is the ratio of benefit to cost?

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Listen: '가장 경제성이 높은 제품은 A 모델입니다.' Which model is the most cost-effective?

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Listen: '경제성 면에서 보면 이사 가는 것이 유리합니다.' Is it better to move or stay?

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Listen: '태양광 발전의 경제성을 높이기 위해 기술 개발이 필요합니다.' What is needed to improve solar power's feasibility?

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Listen: '비경제적인 소비는 가계에 부담을 줍니다.' What kind of spending puts a burden on the household?

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Listen: '정부는 경제성 논리에 따라 사업을 축소했습니다.' Why did the government downsize the project?

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Listen: '오래된 에어컨은 경제성이 떨어지니 교체하는 게 좋습니다.' Why should the old air conditioner be replaced?

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Listen: '경제성 평가가 진행 중입니다.' What is currently happening?

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Listen: '경제성을 확보하기 위해 대량 구매를 했습니다.' Why did they buy in bulk?

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Listen: '수리비가 차 값보다 많이 나오면 경제성이 없어요.' When does a car lose its economic feasibility?

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Listen: '우리는 경제성과 품질 사이에서 고민하고 있습니다.' What two things are they choosing between?

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Listen: '이 기계는 경제성이 뛰어나서 공장에 도입되었습니다.' Why was the machine introduced to the factory?

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Listen: '경제성 분석 보고서를 내일까지 제출하세요.' When is the report due?

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Listen: '경제성이 있다는 사실이 증명되었습니다.' What was proven?

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:

/ 180 correct

Perfect score!

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