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A2 noun 11 min read

격려

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips 격려 in 30 Seconds

Explanation 격려 in your Level:

At the A1 level, you don't need to use the word '격려' (encouragement) frequently in your own speech, but you should recognize it as a positive word related to helping others. At this stage, you are likely more familiar with the phrase '힘내세요!' (Him-nae-se-yo!), which means 'Cheer up!' or 'Have strength!' The word '격려' is the formal noun version of this feeling. Imagine a teacher telling a student 'Good job, keep going'—that act is '격려'. You might see it in very simple textbooks when describing what friends do for each other. For an A1 learner, the most important thing is to understand that '격려' is something good that people give to each other when they are tired or sad. You can think of it as 'giving energy' to someone's heart. It is often used with the verb '하다' (to do), so '격려를 해요' means 'I give encouragement.' Even if you don't use the word itself, knowing it exists helps you understand the supportive culture of Korea. It is a 'warm' word, often associated with smiles and kind words. In simple sentences, you might see '선생님이 격려해요' (The teacher encourages) or '친구가 격려해요' (A friend encourages). Focus on the positive feeling this word carries. It is one of the building blocks for talking about emotions and relationships in Korean. Remember that in Korea, people value supporting each other very much, and '격려' is the name for that support. If someone is having a hard time learning Korean, you can '격려' them!

At the A2 level, you should begin to incorporate '격려' into your vocabulary, especially when talking about your experiences or relationships. You might use it to describe why you were able to finish a difficult task: '친구의 격려 덕분에...' (Thanks to my friend's encouragement...). At this level, you are learning how to connect sentences and explain reasons, and '격려' is a perfect word for that. You should also be aware of the verb form '격려하다'. For example, '저는 동생을 격려해요' (I encourage my younger sibling). You can use it in simple past tense as well: '어제 친구가 저를 격려해 주었어요' (Yesterday, my friend encouraged me). Note the use of '~해 주다' here, which makes the sentence sound more natural and kind, as it implies the encouragement was a favor or a helpful act. You might also encounter this word in simple news clips or social media posts. At the A2 level, you should be able to distinguish '격려' from '칭찬' (praise). Remember: praise is for when something is already finished and successful, but '격려' is for when someone is still trying. If your friend is studying hard for a test, you give them '격려'. If they get a 100, you give them '칭찬'. Understanding this difference will help you use the word correctly in social situations. You should also practice the pronunciation, which is '경녀' (Gyeong-nyeo), not '격-려'. This nasalization is a common rule in Korean that you should start mastering at the A2 level. Using '격려' correctly will make your Korean sound more polite and thoughtful.

At the B1 level, '격려' becomes a very useful word for discussing more complex social interactions and personal growth. You should be comfortable using it in various grammatical structures, such as '격려를 아끼지 않다' (to not spare encouragement) or '격려의 메시지' (a message of encouragement). You can now use it to describe motivations in a work or school environment. For instance, '팀장님의 따뜻한 격려가 큰 힘이 되었습니다' (The team leader's warm encouragement was a great help). At this level, you should also recognize the word in more formal contexts, such as speeches, announcements, or articles. You will notice that '격려' is often used when a person in authority supports someone with less power, but it is also used among equals to build 'team spirit'. You can start using it to express deeper gratitude: '여러분의 격려와 성원에 감사드립니다' (Thank you for everyone's encouragement and support). This is a common phrase used in public speaking. You should also be able to understand the nuance of '격려' in literature or dramas, where it often serves as a turning point for a character's development. B1 learners should also be aware of the noun '격려금' (encouragement money/bonus), which is a specific cultural concept in Korea. It shows how encouragement can be expressed not just through words, but also through actions and tangible rewards. Practice using '격려' in your writing assignments when discussing topics like 'A person who influenced me' or 'How to overcome difficulties'. It adds a level of sophistication and emotional depth to your Korean that simpler words like '도움' (help) cannot provide.

At the B2 level, you should have a nuanced understanding of '격려' and be able to use it in professional and academic settings. You can discuss the psychological and social impacts of encouragement. For example, you might write an essay on 'The Role of Encouragement in Education' using terms like '격려의 심리적 효과' (the psychological effect of encouragement). You should be able to use the word in complex sentence structures, such as '좌절에 빠진 그에게 가장 필요했던 것은 비판이 아니라 진심 어린 격려였다' (What he needed most when he fell into despair was not criticism, but sincere encouragement). At this level, you should also be familiar with related Hanja-based words like '고무적이다' (to be encouraging/inspiring) and '성원' (public support). You should understand how '격려' functions within the Korean hierarchical structure. While it is usually top-down, you can use it horizontally to describe 'mutual encouragement' (상호 격려). You will also encounter '격려' in more abstract contexts, such as '격려의 박수' (applause of encouragement) or '격려사' (encouragement speech at a ceremony). You should be able to distinguish between the subtle shades of meaning when '격려' is paired with different adjectives: '아낌없는 격려' (unsparing), '뜻밖의 격려' (unexpected), '지속적인 격려' (continuous). B2 learners should also be able to handle the passive or indirect forms, like '격려를 받으며 성장하다' (to grow up receiving encouragement). Your ability to use '격려' in these diverse ways will demonstrate a high level of fluency and an understanding of Korean social etiquette.

At the C1 level, your use of '격려' should reflect a deep grasp of its cultural and philosophical implications. You can analyze how '격려' functions as a form of social capital in Korean organizations. You might discuss the difference between '격려' in a traditional Confucian context—where it emphasizes duty and perseverance—versus its use in modern psychological contexts focusing on self-esteem and individual growth. You should be able to use the word in highly formal written Korean (Munjiche), such as in editorials or academic papers. For example: '현대 사회에서 지도자의 자질 중 하나는 구성원들에게 적절한 격려를 제공함으로써 동기를 부여하는 능력이다' (In modern society, one of the qualities of a leader is the ability to motivate members by providing appropriate encouragement). You should also be familiar with idiomatic or metaphorical uses of the word. You can discuss '격려' in the context of 'Hyo' (filial piety) or 'Jeong' (affection), explaining how encouragement is a manifestation of these core Korean values. At this level, you should also be able to critique the 'over-use' of empty encouragement in corporate culture, using the word to discuss 'toxic positivity' or 'ritualistic encouragement' that lacks sincerity. Your vocabulary should include advanced synonyms and antonyms, and you should be able to explain the subtle differences between '격려', '위로', '응원', and '고무' to lower-level students. You should also be able to recognize '격려' in classical or older modern literature, where the Hanja roots might be more pronounced. Using '격려' at this level is not just about communication; it's about demonstrating a sophisticated understanding of the human spirit through the lens of the Korean language.

At the C2 level, you possess a native-like or scholarly command of the word '격려'. You can engage in high-level debates about the ethics of encouragement or its role in national identity. For instance, you could discuss how the collective '격려' of the Korean people during the 1997 financial crisis (the 'Gold-collecting campaign') was a unique cultural phenomenon. You are comfortable using '격려' in any linguistic register, from the most archaic poetic forms to the most cutting-edge business jargon. You can use the word to explore complex human emotions in creative writing, perhaps describing '격려' as a 'double-edged sword' that can either provide strength or impose a burden of expectation. You understand the historical evolution of the word and its Hanja components in depth, and can discuss how its usage has shifted from military or physical contexts to emotional and psychological ones over the centuries. In professional settings, you can draft '격려사' (encouragement speeches) for high-ranking officials that are both moving and politically astute. You can detect the slightest nuance in how '격려' is delivered—the tone of voice, the choice of honorifics, and the situational context—and interpret the underlying social message. For a C2 learner, '격려' is more than a word; it is a tool for navigating the most complex layers of Korean society and human connection. You can use it to build bridges, resolve conflicts, and inspire others, all while maintaining a perfect grasp of the linguistic and cultural subtleties that make the word so significant in the Korean language. Your mastery of '격려' is a testament to your profound integration into the Korean-speaking world.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

격려 in 30 Seconds

A noun meaning 'encouragement' or 'cheer'.
Often used in the context of supporting someone during a struggle.
Pronounced as [경녀] due to Korean nasalization rules.
Commonly paired with '하다' (to do) or '덕분에' (thanks to).

The Korean noun 격려 (Gyeong-nyeo) is a profound and essential term in Korean social dynamics, representing the act of giving heart, courage, or spirit to someone who is struggling, facing a challenge, or in need of emotional support. Etymologically rooted in Hanja, the first character 激 (Gyeok) means to stir up, surge, or excite, while the second character 勵 (Ryeo) means to exert effort or encourage. Together, they form a concept that is more active than mere sympathy; it is an intentional push to help someone find their inner strength. In Korean culture, where the collective well-being often takes precedence, providing 격려 is seen as a moral duty among friends, colleagues, and family members. It is not just about saying 'good job' after a success—which would be 칭찬 (ching-chan)—but rather about providing the fuel needed for someone to continue their journey before the goal is even reached.

The Nuance of Support: While English speakers might use 'encouragement' loosely, in Korean, 격려 carries a weight of sincerity. It often implies that the person receiving it is in a state of exhaustion or doubt. When you offer 격려, you are acknowledging their hardship and validating their effort.
Social Hierarchy and Direction: Traditionally, 격려 is most commonly directed from a person of higher status or age to someone younger or subordinate, such as a teacher to a student or a boss to an employee. However, in modern egalitarian settings, it is used horizontally among peers to foster a supportive environment.

실패한 친구에게 따뜻한 격려를 건넸습니다. (I offered warm encouragement to a friend who failed.)

In everyday life, you will encounter this word in news reports regarding leaders visiting disaster zones to 'encourage' workers, in sports commentary where fans 'encourage' a losing team, and in educational contexts where teachers provide 'encouragement' to students before a big exam. It is often paired with verbs like 하다 (to do), 보내다 (to send), or 아끼지 않다 (to not spare). This last phrase, 격려를 아끼지 않다, is particularly common and means to give encouragement generously without holding back. It suggests a deep level of care and investment in the other person's success. Understanding 격려 is key to understanding the 'Jeong' (정) or deep affection and attachment that characterizes Korean relationships.

부모님의 격려 덕분에 포기하지 않았어요. (Thanks to my parents' encouragement, I didn't give up.)

Furthermore, the word reflects a specific type of communicative action. It isn't just about the feeling of being encouraged; it is the communicative act itself. When a news anchor says 'The President visited the site for 격려,' they mean he went there specifically to speak to people and boost their morale. This emphasizes the externalization of support. In a culture that can sometimes be reserved, 격려 is the bridge that allows one person to reach out and touch the spirit of another, ensuring that no one feels they are struggling alone in their endeavors.

Using 격려 correctly requires an understanding of its typical grammatical partners. As a noun, it most frequently functions as the object of a sentence, often paired with the particle ~를/을. The most basic construction is 격려를 하다 (to give encouragement). To make this more natural, Koreans often use 격려를 건네다 (to pass/offer encouragement) or 격려의 말을 전하다 (to deliver words of encouragement). These variations add a layer of poetic grace to the interaction, suggesting that the encouragement is a gift being handed over from one person to another.

Receiving Support: When you are the recipient, you use 격려를 받다 (to receive encouragement). If the encouragement was the catalyst for an action, you use the structure ~의 격려 덕분에 (thanks to the encouragement of...). This is a very common way to express gratitude in formal speeches or interviews.

그의 격려는 저에게 큰 힘이 되었습니다. (His encouragement became a great source of strength for me.)

In formal writing or business contexts, 격려 is often part of compound nouns. For example, 격려사 (Gyeong-nyeo-sa) refers to an 'encouragement speech' or 'congratulatory remarks' given at a ceremony. 격려금 (Gyeong-nyeo-geum) is 'encouragement money,' often given as a bonus to employees who have worked hard under difficult circumstances. These terms show how 격려 is institutionalized in Korean society as a formal way of recognizing and supporting effort. When you want to describe the quality of the encouragement, adjectives like 따뜻한 (warm), 진심 어린 (sincere), or 아낌없는 (unsparing) are the most frequent choices.

우리는 서로를 격려하며 끝까지 달렸습니다. (We encouraged each other and ran until the end.)

Another sophisticated way to use this word is in the pattern 격려의 박수 (Gyeong-nyeo-ui bak-su), meaning 'a round of applause for encouragement.' This is frequently heard from hosts at events when a speaker is nervous or after a performer makes a small mistake. It invites the audience to support the person despite their imperfections. This usage highlights the communal nature of 격려—it is a collective energy that can be summoned to lift an individual. Whether through words, money, or applause, the grammar of 격려 always points toward an active, positive intervention in someone else's emotional state.

You will hear 격려 in a variety of settings, ranging from the highly formal to the deeply personal. In the professional world, it is a staple of corporate communication. When a company undergoes a merger or faces a difficult quarter, the CEO might send a 'message of 격려' to all staff. This isn't just a memo; it's a strategic tool used to prevent burnout and maintain morale. In Korean dramas (K-dramas), this word often appears during pivotal moments where a mentor figure speaks to a protagonist who is about to give up. The mentor might say, 'I'm not here to criticize, I'm here to give you 격려.' This distinguishes the act from 'coaching' or 'advising,' focusing purely on the emotional boost.

Sports and Competition: In the world of Korean sports, 격려 is used by coaches during halftime or after a loss. Fans also use it to describe their support for players who are in a 'slump.' You will see banners that say 'We send you our 격려,' signifying that the fans' love is not dependent on a win.

팀원들의 격려 속에 경기가 시작되었습니다. (The match began amidst the encouragement of the teammates.)

Education is another primary domain for this word. The Korean CSAT (Suneung) period is a time when the entire nation engages in a massive act of 격려. From news segments to social media posts, people use the word to describe the support being funneled toward high school seniors. Teachers will often give 격려의 선물 (encouragement gifts) like traditional taffy or chocolate. Here, 격려 takes on a almost ritualistic quality, serving to ease the extreme pressure of the Korean educational system. In religious or community gatherings, you might hear the phrase 서로 격려합시다 (Let's encourage one another), which serves as an invitation to build a positive atmosphere.

대통령은 현장 노동자들에게 격려의 메시지를 보냈습니다. (The President sent a message of encouragement to the on-site workers.)

Lastly, in the digital age, 격려 has moved into the comments sections of social media. When someone posts about a personal struggle, like health issues or career setbacks, the comments are often referred to as 격려의 댓글 (encouragement comments). This highlights how the word has adapted to modern communication, maintaining its core function of providing a safety net of support through language. Whether it is a formal speech by a politician or a simple 'Like' and a kind word on Instagram, 격려 remains the primary term for describing the act of lifting others up.

A very common mistake for learners of Korean is confusing 격려 (Gyeong-nyeo) with 칭찬 (Ching-chan). While both are positive, they apply to different situations. 칭찬 is 'praise' or 'compliment.' You give 칭찬 when someone has already achieved something or done something well (e.g., 'You got an A! Good job!'). In contrast, 격려 is given when someone is currently trying, struggling, or has even failed. If you 'praise' someone who just failed an exam, it might sound sarcastic or confusing. Instead, you should 'encourage' (격려) them by saying, 'It's okay, you'll do better next time.' Understanding this distinction is crucial for emotional intelligence in Korean conversations.

Confusion with 위로 (Wi-ro): Another point of confusion is 위로, which means 'comfort' or 'consolation.' While 격려 is forward-looking and motivational, 위로 is backward-looking and focuses on healing the pain of the past. You 위로 someone who is grieving, but you 격려 someone who needs the strength to move forward.

잘못된 사용: 성공한 사람에게 격려를 했습니다. (Incorrect: I encouraged the person who succeeded—Praise is better here.)

Grammatically, learners often struggle with the particle usage when 격려 is used as a verb (격려하다). Some learners mistakenly use the dative particle ~에게 (to) because in English we say 'give encouragement *to* someone.' However, in Korean, 격려하다 is a transitive verb that takes the object particle ~를/을. You 'encourage someone' (누구를 격려하다), you don't 'do encouragement to someone' in that specific verb form. If you use the noun form 격려를 하다, then you can use ~에게 (e.g., 친구에게 격려를 했어요).

올바른 사용: 선생님이 학생을 격려해 주셨습니다. (Correct: The teacher encouraged the student.)

Lastly, learners sometimes use 격려 in contexts that are too casual or where 'fighting' (화이팅) would be more appropriate. 격려 is a somewhat 'heavy' or formal noun. In a casual text message to a friend, saying 'I am sending you 격려' might sound a bit like a textbook or a formal speech. In those cases, using phrases like '힘내!' (Cheer up/Have strength!) or '응원할게!' (I'll be rooting for you!) is much more natural. Save 격려 for when you are describing the act of support itself or when you want to sound sincere and serious about the help you are providing.

To truly master 격려, it is helpful to compare it with its synonyms and related terms. Korean has a rich vocabulary for emotional support, and choosing the right word depends on the specific context and the goal of your communication. The most closely related word is 응원 (Eung-won). While 격려 is about providing emotional strength through words and empathy, 응원 is about 'rooting' or 'cheering.' 응원 is what you do at a soccer game or when a friend is starting a new business. It is high-energy and focuses on the 'team' aspect of support. 격려, on the other hand, is often more quiet, personal, and deep.

격려 vs. 위로 (Consolation): As mentioned before, 위로 focuses on sadness. If someone's pet passes away, you give 위로. If someone is sad because they didn't get a job but they need to keep applying, you give 격려. 격려 has a 'keep going' vibe, whereas 위로 has a 'rest and heal' vibe.
격려 vs. 지지 (Support/Backing): 지지 is more ideological or structural. You 'support' (지지) a political candidate or a specific policy. It implies agreement with their stance. 격려 doesn't necessarily require agreement; it just requires a desire to see the other person succeed emotionally.

비교: '힘내' (Casual) vs '격려의 말' (Formal/Sincere).

Another interesting alternative is 고무 (Go-mu). This is a more academic or literary term meaning 'inspiration' or 'encouragement' that leads to a specific action. For example, 'The general's speech 고무-ed the soldiers to fight harder.' It is much stronger and more formal than 격려. Then there is 성원 (Seong-won), which is often used in formal settings to mean 'support and encouragement from the public.' When a celebrity wins an award, they might say, 'Thank you for your 성원.' This refers to the collective 'cheering energy' of many people.

그의 말은 나를 격려하기에 충분했습니다. (His words were enough to encourage me.)

In summary, while 격려 is the standard, versatile word for encouragement, knowing these alternatives allows you to be more precise. Use 칭찬 for achievements, 위로 for sorrow, 응원 for cheering, and 격려 for that beautiful middle ground where someone just needs a little bit of 'heart-stirring' to keep their spirits high. Each of these words reflects a different facet of the Korean emotional landscape, and mastering them will make your Korean sound much more empathetic and natural.

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

The character 激 (Gyeok) is also used in words like 'Gyeok-dong' (turbulent) and 'Gyeok-ryeol' (fierce), showing the 'stirring' or 'surging' energy behind encouragement.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /kjʌŋ.njʌ/

US /kjʌŋ.njʌ/

The stress is generally even, but the first syllable '격' (pronounced as '경') has a slightly higher pitch in some dialects.

Rhymes With

염려 (Yeom-nyeo - worry) 고려 (Go-ryeo - consideration) 반려 (Ban-ryeo - companion) 수려 (Su-ryeo - excellence) 장려 (Jang-nyeo - encouragement/promotion) 우려 (U-ryeo - concern) 수수료 (Su-su-ryo - fee) 음료 (Eum-nyo - beverage)

Common Errors

Pronouncing it as 'Gyeok-ryeo' with a hard 'k' and 'r' stop.
Confusing the 'ㄹ' sound with an English 'L' sound.
Forgetting the nasalization rule entirely.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 2/5

The word is common in news and books, but the Hanja roots and nasalization require some study.

Writing 3/5

Using it with the correct particles and collocations (like '아끼지 않다') takes practice.

Speaking 3/5

The nasalization [경녀] is a common hurdle for beginners.

Listening 2/5

Easy to recognize once you know the [경녀] pronunciation.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

칭찬 (Praise) 응원 (Cheer) 힘 (Strength) 말 (Word) 주다 (Give)

Learn Next

고무 (Inspiration) 지지 (Support) 위로 (Comfort) 사기 (Morale) 원동력 (Driving force)

Advanced

고무적이다 (To be encouraging) 성원 (Public support) 후원 (Sponsorship)

Grammar to Know

Nasalization (비음화)

격려 is pronounced [경녀].

~ 덕분에 (Thanks to)

선생님의 격려 덕분에 합격했어요.

~를 아끼지 않다 (Not spare)

격려를 아끼지 않았습니다.

~해 주다 (Do for someone)

친구를 격려해 주었어요.

~의 (Possessive/Descriptive)

격려의 말, 격려의 박수.

Examples by Level

친구가 저를 격려해요.

My friend encourages me.

'격려해요' is the present tense of '격려하다'.

선생님의 격려가 좋아요.

I like the teacher's encouragement.

'격려' is used as a noun here.

엄마, 격려해 주세요!

Mom, please encourage me!

'~해 주세요' is used to ask for a favor.

우리는 친구를 격려합니다.

We encourage our friend.

Formal ending '~합니다'.

격려의 말을 들었어요.

I heard words of encouragement.

'격려의 말' means 'words of encouragement'.

따뜻한 격려가 필요해요.

I need warm encouragement.

'따뜻한' (warm) often describes '격려'.

그는 나를 격려했다.

He encouraged me.

Past tense '격려했다'.

서로 격려해요.

Let's encourage each other.

'서로' means 'each other'.

친구의 격려 덕분에 힘이 났어요.

Thanks to my friend's encouragement, I gained strength.

'~ 덕분에' means 'thanks to'.

실패했지만 선생님이 격려해 주셨어요.

I failed, but the teacher encouraged me.

'~해 주다' indicates the action was done for the speaker's benefit.

격려의 메시지를 보냈습니다.

I sent a message of encouragement.

'보냈습니다' is the formal past tense of '보내다'.

우리는 서로를 격려하며 공부해요.

We encourage each other while studying.

'~하며' means 'while doing'.

그의 격려는 저에게 큰 도움이 되었어요.

His encouragement was a big help to me.

'도움이 되다' means 'to be a help'.

아버지는 항상 저를 격려해 주십니다.

My father always encourages me.

'~해 주십니다' uses the honorific '~시-'.

격려를 받으면 기분이 좋아져요.

When I receive encouragement, I feel better.

'~하면' means 'if' or 'when'.

힘든 친구에게 격려를 해 주세요.

Please give encouragement to a friend who is having a hard time.

'힘든' describes someone going through a hard time.

부장님께서 팀원들에게 격려금을 주셨습니다.

The manager gave encouragement money to the team members.

'격려금' is a specific term for a bonus given to boost morale.

그의 진심 어린 격려가 나를 다시 일어서게 했다.

His sincere encouragement made me stand up again.

'~게 하다' is a causative structure (made me...).

우리는 아낌없는 격려와 박수를 보냈습니다.

We sent unsparing encouragement and applause.

'아낌없는' means 'unsparing' or 'generous'.

격려의 말을 아끼지 않는 리더가 되고 싶어요.

I want to be a leader who doesn't spare words of encouragement.

'~를 아끼지 않다' means to do something generously.

여러분의 격려 덕분에 무사히 마칠 수 있었습니다.

Thanks to your encouragement, I was able to finish safely.

'무사히' means 'safely' or 'without issues'.

선생님은 학생들의 열정을 격려하셨습니다.

The teacher encouraged the students' passion.

Honorific form '격려하셨습니다'.

서로 격려하며 어려움을 극복합시다.

Let's overcome difficulties by encouraging each other.

'극복합시다' means 'let's overcome'.

격려를 받으니 자신감이 생겼어요.

Since I received encouragement, I gained confidence.

'자신감이 생기다' means 'to gain confidence'.

대통령은 재난 현장을 방문하여 주민들을 격려했다.

The President visited the disaster site and encouraged the residents.

'방문하여' is a formal way to say 'visit and'.

그의 격려사는 많은 사람들에게 감동을 주었습니다.

His encouragement speech moved many people.

'격려사' is a formal noun for an encouragement speech.

지속적인 격려는 아이의 성장에 긍정적인 영향을 미칩니다.

Continuous encouragement has a positive impact on a child's growth.

'영향을 미치다' means 'to have an influence/impact'.

실패를 두려워하지 않도록 격려하는 것이 중요합니다.

It is important to encourage so that they are not afraid of failure.

'~하도록' means 'so that' or 'in order to'.

우리는 서로의 꿈을 격려하며 함께 성장해 왔다.

We have grown together, encouraging each other's dreams.

'~해 오다' indicates an action continuing from the past.

뜻밖의 격려에 그녀는 눈물을 흘리고 말았다.

She ended up shedding tears at the unexpected encouragement.

'~고 말았다' indicates an unintended or final result.

동료들의 따뜻한 격려가 큰 위안이 되었습니다.

The warm encouragement of my colleagues was a great comfort.

'위안' means 'comfort' or 'solace'.

그는 후배들을 격려하기 위해 직접 경기장을 찾았다.

He visited the stadium in person to encourage his juniors.

'~하기 위해' means 'in order to'.

지도자의 진심 어린 격려는 조직의 사기를 높이는 데 필수적이다.

A leader's sincere encouragement is essential for boosting organizational morale.

'사기' means 'morale'.

비판보다는 격려를 통해 긍정적인 변화를 이끌어내야 합니다.

We must lead positive change through encouragement rather than criticism.

'~를 통해' means 'through' or 'via'.

그녀는 고난 속에서도 타인을 격려하는 숭고한 정신을 보여주었다.

She showed a noble spirit of encouraging others even amidst hardships.

'숭고한' means 'noble' or 'sublime'.

격려의 박수는 때로 백 마디 말보다 더 큰 힘을 발휘한다.

A round of applause for encouragement sometimes exerts more power than a hundred words.

'발휘하다' means 'to exert' or 'to display (a power/ability)'.

우리는 서로를 격려하며 공생의 가치를 실현해 나가야 한다.

We must realize the value of coexistence by encouraging each other.

'공생' means 'coexistence'.

학부모들의 아낌없는 격려와 성원이 학교 발전의 원동력이 되었다.

The unsparing encouragement and support of parents became the driving force for the school's development.

'원동력' means 'driving force' or 'impetus'.

그의 삶은 절망에 빠진 이들에게 큰 격려와 희망이 되고 있다.

His life is becoming a great encouragement and hope for those in despair.

'절망' means 'despair'.

정부는 중소기업을 격려하기 위한 다양한 지원책을 마련했다.

The government prepared various support measures to encourage small and medium-sized enterprises.

'지원책' means 'support measures'.

격려는 인간의 내면적 잠재력을 일깨우는 가장 강력한 심리적 기제 중 하나이다.

Encouragement is one of the most powerful psychological mechanisms for awakening human inner potential.

'기제' means 'mechanism'.

진정한 격려란 타인의 고통에 공감하고 그가 스스로 일어설 수 있도록 돕는 숭고한 행위이다.

True encouragement is a noble act of empathizing with another's pain and helping them stand on their own.

'공감' means 'empathy'.

역사 속 위대한 인물들은 대중의 격려와 지지를 바탕으로 시대의 난관을 극복해 왔다.

Great figures in history have overcome the difficulties of their times based on the encouragement and support of the public.

'~를 바탕으로' means 'based on'.

격려의 언어는 메마른 영혼에 내리는 단비와 같이 생명력을 불어넣는다.

The language of encouragement breathes vitality into a parched soul, like sweet rain falling on dry land.

'단비' is a poetic word for 'timely rain' or 'sweet rain'.

공동체의 연대 의식은 서로에 대한 따뜻한 격려를 통해 더욱 공고해진다.

The sense of solidarity in a community becomes more solid through warm encouragement for one another.

'공고해지다' means 'to become solid/firm'.

격려가 결여된 비판은 성장이 아닌 위축을 초래할 뿐이다.

Criticism lacking encouragement only results in shrinking/contraction rather than growth.

'결여되다' means 'to be lacking'.

그의 철학은 타인에 대한 무조건적인 격려와 존중을 핵심 가치로 삼고 있다.

His philosophy takes unconditional encouragement and respect for others as its core values.

'~를 핵심 가치로 삼다' means 'to take ~ as a core value'.

우리는 격려의 문화를 확산시켜 보다 따뜻한 사회를 만들어가야 할 책무가 있다.

We have a duty to create a warmer society by spreading a culture of encouragement.

'책무' means 'duty' or 'obligation'.

Common Collocations

따뜻한 격려

격려를 보내다

격려를 받다

격려의 말

격려의 박수

격려를 아끼지 않다

격려금

격려사

진심 어린 격려

서로 격려하다

Common Phrases

격려를 아끼지 않겠습니다

— I will provide unsparing encouragement. Often used by leaders to show commitment.

여러분의 도전에 격려를 아끼지 않겠습니다.

격려 덕분에

— Thanks to the encouragement. Used to express gratitude for support.

선생님의 격려 덕분에 합격했습니다.

격려의 메시지

— A message of encouragement. Common in digital communication.

친구들에게 격려의 메시지를 받았다.

격려가 되다

— To be encouraging or to become a source of encouragement.

당신의 말은 저에게 큰 격려가 됩니다.

격려를 부탁하다

— To ask for encouragement. Used when one is feeling nervous.

새로운 출발을 하는 저에게 격려를 부탁드립니다.

격려와 지지

— Encouragement and support. A very common formal pairing.

가족의 격려와 지지가 큰 힘이 되었어요.

격려 차원에서

— From the perspective of / for the purpose of encouragement.

격려 차원에서 보너스를 지급했습니다.

격려를 건네다

— To offer or hand over encouragement.

그는 웃으며 따뜻한 격려를 건넸다.

격려가 필요하다

— To need encouragement.

지금 우리에게는 비판보다 격려가 필요합니다.

격려 속에

— Amidst encouragement. Used to describe an environment.

그는 많은 이들의 격려 속에 은퇴했다.

Often Confused With

격려 vs 칭찬

Praise is for success; 격려 is for effort/struggle.

격려 vs 위로

Comfort is for sadness; 격려 is for moving forward.

격려 vs 응원

Cheering is for energy/competition; 격려 is for emotional strength.

Idioms & Expressions

"용기를 북돋우다"

— To boost someone's courage. A common way to describe the act of 격려.

선생님은 항상 학생들의 용기를 북돋워 주신다.

Neutral

"어깨를 다독이다"

— To pat someone on the shoulder. A physical gesture representing encouragement.

아버지는 아무 말 없이 내 어깨를 다독여 주셨다.

Neutral

"힘을 실어주다"

— To give strength to someone or support their cause.

동료들이 제 계획에 힘을 실어주었습니다.

Neutral

"등을 밀어주다"

— To push someone's back (metaphorically), helping them move forward.

친구의 격려가 내 등을 밀어주었다.

Neutral

"기운을 내다"

— To cheer up or gather one's spirits. The goal of 격려.

격려를 듣고 다시 기운을 냈어요.

Neutral

"박수를 보내다"

— To send applause. Used to show support and encouragement.

그녀의 용기 있는 행동에 박수를 보냅니다.

Neutral

"손을 내밀다"

— To reach out a hand. Often implies offering help and encouragement.

어려운 이웃에게 먼저 손을 내밀어 봅시다.

Neutral

"마음을 얻다"

— To win someone's heart. Often done through sincere encouragement.

그는 따뜻한 격려로 팀원들의 마음을 얻었다.

Neutral

"불을 지피다"

— To light a fire (metaphorically). To inspire or encourage passion.

그의 연설은 내 꿈에 불을 지폈다.

Literary

"함께 걷다"

— To walk together. Symbolizes continuous support and encouragement.

우리는 힘든 시기를 함께 걸으며 서로를 격려했다.

Poetic

Easily Confused

격려 vs 장려

Both involve encouragement.

장려 is more about 'promoting' or 'encouraging' a certain behavior or policy (e.g., encouraging saving money).

정부는 저축을 장려하고 있습니다.

격려 vs 고무

Both mean to inspire.

고무 is much more formal and usually leads to a specific, often heroic, action.

그의 용기는 시민들을 고무시켰다.

격려 vs 지지

Both involve support.

지지 is about backing an idea or a person's position, whereas 격려 is about emotional support.

우리는 그의 계획을 지지합니다.

격려 vs 후원

Both involve backing.

후원 usually implies financial or official sponsorship.

그 화가는 기업의 후원을 받았다.

격려 vs 협력

Both involve working together.

협력 is 'cooperation,' which is a mutual action, while 격려 can be one-way.

두 회사는 기술 협력을 하기로 했다.

Sentence Patterns

N이/가 N을 격려해요.

친구가 저를 격려해요.

N의 격려 덕분에 V.

엄마의 격려 덕분에 힘이 나요.

N에게 격려의 말을 전하다.

동생에게 격려의 말을 전했어요.

N을 격려해 주다.

선생님이 학생을 격려해 주셨어요.

N에 격려를 아끼지 않다.

그는 후배에게 격려를 아끼지 않았다.

N의 격려 속에 V.

많은 사람들의 격려 속에 출발했습니다.

N은 N의 원동력이 되다.

격려는 성장의 원동력이 됩니다.

N을 바탕으로 N을 격려하다.

공감을 바탕으로 타인을 격려해야 한다.

Word Family

Nouns

격려사 (Encouragement speech)

격려금 (Encouragement money)

격려자 (Encourager)

Verbs

격려하다 (To encourage)

격려받다 (To be encouraged)

Adjectives

격려적인 (Encouraging)

응원 (Cheering)

위로 (Comfort)

고무 (Inspiration)

지지 (Support)

성원 (Public support)

How to Use It

frequency

Very high in formal, educational, and supportive contexts.

Common Mistakes

Pronouncing it as Gyeok-ryeo. → Gyeong-nyeo.
Korean phonology rules require nasalization in this consonant cluster.
Using '격려' for a successful achievement. → 칭찬 (Praise).
'격려' is for the process/struggle; '칭찬' is for the result.
Using '격려' with a superior incorrectly. → 감사 (Thanks) or 응원 (Rooting).
'격려' can sometimes sound like it's coming from a position of authority.
Using '격려' when someone is deeply grieving. → 위로 (Comfort).
'격려' might feel too 'pushy' for someone who just needs to grieve.
Confusing '격려' with '장려'. → 격려 (for people), 장려 (for policies/actions).
'장려' is used for promoting things like 'saving' or 'reading'.

Tips

The Power of 'Fighting!'

While '격려' is the formal word, the most common everyday act of encouragement is shouting 'Fighting!' (화이팅!). Use this for casual energy.

Particle Precision

Remember: 누구를 격려하다 (Encourage someone) VS 누구에게 격려를 하다 (Give encouragement to someone).

Nasalization Master

Practice words like '격려' [경녀] and '학력' [항녁] together to master the nasalization rule.

Formal Letters

When writing to a teacher, always include a line about how their '격려' helped you.

Mutual Support

In Korean group culture, '서로 격려하는 것' (encouraging each other) is considered a key trait of a good team.

Morale Boosting

If you are a manager, using the word '격려' in your emails can help build a positive rapport with your Korean staff.

Drama Clichés

In K-dramas, look for the 'mentor' scene. They will almost always use the word '격려' or '위로'.

Synonym Shades

Learn '응원', '위로', and '격려' as a set to understand the full spectrum of Korean support.

Gyeong-nyeo

Think of 'Gyeong' (Respect) + 'Nyeo' (Near). You show respect by staying near someone to encourage them.

Daily Challenge

Find one person today and give them a '격려의 말' (word of encouragement).

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of 'Gyeong' as 'Great' and 'Nyeo' as 'Near'. Great encouragement brings people near to their goals.

Visual Association

Imagine a coach patting a tired runner's back and pointing toward the finish line.

Word Web

Support Courage Heart Push Spirit Help Kindness Strength

Challenge

Try to use '격려' in a sentence today when talking about someone you admire or someone you helped.

Word Origin

Derived from Hanja (Sino-Korean characters). 激 (격) + 勵 (려).

Original meaning: To stir up (激) and strive/exert effort (勵).

Sino-Korean

Cultural Context

Be careful not to '격려' a superior in a way that sounds like you are looking down on them. Use honorifics like '격려해 주셔서 감사합니다' when receiving it from a boss.

In English, 'encouragement' can be quite casual. In Korean, '격려' is slightly more formal and sincere, often implying a deeper emotional connection or a specific situation of struggle.

Many K-pop songs use the theme of '격려' to support fans (e.g., BTS's 'Magic Shop'). Historical figures like Admiral Yi Sun-sin are often described as giving '격려' to their soldiers. Traditional Korean proverbs often emphasize the power of a single word of support.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Workplace

부장님의 격려
격려금을 받다
서로 격려하는 분위기
격려의 이메일

School

선생님의 격려
격려의 박수
친구를 격려하다
격려의 선물

Sports

팀원들의 격려
팬들의 격려
격려를 보내다
패배 후의 격려

Family

부모님의 격려
따뜻한 격려
격려 덕분에
가족의 격려

Digital/Social Media

격려의 댓글
격려의 메시지
격려를 전하다
온라인 격려

Conversation Starters

"요즘 격려가 필요한 일이 있나요? (Is there anything you need encouragement for lately?)"

"누구의 격려가 가장 힘이 되었나요? (Whose encouragement was the most helpful?)"

"어떻게 친구를 격려해 주는 편인가요? (How do you usually encourage your friends?)"

"격려의 말을 들으면 어떤 기분이 드나요? (How do you feel when you hear words of encouragement?)"

"최근에 누구를 격려해 준 적이 있나요? (Have you encouraged anyone recently?)"

Journal Prompts

오늘 나를 격려해 준 사람에 대해 써 보세요. (Write about someone who encouraged you today.)

내가 다른 사람에게 격려를 건넸던 경험을 적어 보세요. (Write about an experience where you offered encouragement to someone else.)

격려가 왜 중요하다고 생각하는지 설명해 보세요. (Explain why you think encouragement is important.)

'격려의 힘'이라는 주제로 짧은 글을 써 보세요. (Write a short piece on the theme 'The Power of Encouragement'.)

내가 나 자신에게 해주고 싶은 격려의 말은 무엇인가요? (What words of encouragement do you want to say to yourself?)

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

While the word '격려' itself is a bit formal, the act it describes is universal. In casual speech, people might say '힘을 주다' (give strength), but they use '격려' in writing or when being very sincere.

It is pronounced [경녀]. The 'ㄱ' at the end of the first syllable changes to 'ㅇ' because of the 'ㄹ' in the next syllable, and the 'ㄹ' changes to 'ㄴ'.

It is a bit risky. Usually, '격려' flows from a higher status to a lower one. For a boss, it's better to say '항상 응원하고 있습니다' (I'm always rooting for you) or '감사합니다'.

It is 'encouragement money'—a bonus given to employees or individuals to boost their morale, especially during hard times.

'응원' is like cheering at a game (loud, energetic). '격려' is like a heartfelt talk (deep, supportive).

Yes, you can say '셀프 격려' (self-encouragement) or '나 자신을 격려하다'.

Yes, it often appears in reading comprehension texts about leadership, education, or social harmony.

'따뜻한' (warm), '아낌없는' (unsparing), '진심 어린' (sincere), '지속적인' (continuous).

Rarely, but sometimes 'empty encouragement' can be seen as a burden. However, the word itself is almost always positive.

'격려해 주셔서 진심으로 감사드립니다.'