증조할머니 in 30 Seconds
- Great-grandmother in Korean is <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>증조할머니</mark>.
- <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>증조할머니</mark> refers to your grandparent's mother.
- It's a term showing respect for elders and family lineage.
- Commonly used in family discussions and when referring to ancestors.
- Korean Word
- 증조할머니 (jeung-jo-hal-meo-ni)
- English Definition
- Great-grandmother.
- CEFR Level
- A2
- Part of Speech
- Noun
In Korean culture, family relationships are very important, and there are specific terms for each generation. The term 증조할머니 refers to your grandmother's mother, or your grandfather's mother. This term is used to show respect for elders and to acknowledge the lineage of a family. While it's a specific term, it's commonly understood and used when discussing family history or referring to older relatives. For instance, when someone talks about their family tree or shares stories about their ancestors, they might mention their 증조할머니. It's a term that evokes a sense of history and connection to the past. The politeness and respect embedded in Korean family terms are also reflected in how one would address or refer to their 증조할머니. If you are fortunate enough to have a living 증조할머니, you would likely use honorifics when speaking to or about her. In conversations about family gatherings, holidays, or traditions, the presence or memory of a 증조할머니 can be a significant part of the discussion. It highlights the continuity of family and the passing down of traditions and values through generations. The word itself, 증조할머니, is composed of '증조' (jeungjo), meaning great-grandparent, and '할머니' (halmeoni), meaning grandmother. This structure clearly indicates the familial relationship. Understanding this word is essential for anyone learning about Korean kinship and family structures. It's a foundational term for discussing multiple generations within a family. For example, when a child asks about their great-grandparents, the parent might explain, 'That's your 증조할머니 over there.' The term is not just a label but carries emotional weight, representing a deep connection to one's roots. It's a word that signifies respect, love, and the enduring bond between family members across time. The use of 증조할머니 is common in everyday Korean conversations when family is the topic, whether in casual chats or more formal discussions about genealogy. It's a testament to the value placed on elders and the recognition of their role in shaping the family's history and identity. When you hear this word, it's a direct reference to that specific maternal or paternal great-grandmother, a figure who is often remembered with great fondness and respect. It's a term that bridges generations and keeps the memory of ancestors alive.
- Basic Structure
- [Possessive Pronoun/Noun] + 증조할머니 + [Verb/Description]
- Example Sentence 1
- 우리 증조할머니는 아주 오래전에 돌아가셨어요. (Uri jeung-jo-hal-meo-ni-neun a-ju o-rae-jeon-e do-ra-ga-syeo-sseo-yo.) - My great-grandmother passed away a long time ago.
- Example Sentence 2
- 사진 속에 계신 분이 제 증조할머니세요. (Sa-jin sok-e gye-sin bun-i je jeung-jo-hal-meo-ni-se-yo.) - The person in the photo is my great-grandmother.
- Example Sentence 3
- 어렸을 때 증조할머니 댁에 자주 놀러 갔어요. (Eo-ryeo-sseul ttae jeung-jo-hal-meo-ni daek-e ja-ju nol-leo gat-eo-yo.) - When I was young, I often went to visit my great-grandmother's house.
- Example Sentence 4
- 할머니께서 증조할머니에 대한 이야기를 들려주셨어요. (Hal-meo-ni-kke-seo jeung-jo-hal-meo-ni-e dae-han i-ya-gi-reul deul-lyeo-ju-syeo-sseo-yo.) - Grandmother told me stories about my great-grandmother.
- Example Sentence 5
- 제 증조할머니는 100세까지 사셨습니다. (Je jeung-jo-hal-meo-ni-neun baek-se-kka-ji sa-syeot-seum-ni-da.) - My great-grandmother lived to be 100 years old.
- Example Sentence 6
- 명절에는 돌아가신 증조할머니도 생각나요. (Myeong-jeol-e-neun do-ra-ga-sin jeung-jo-hal-meo-ni-do saeng-ga-na-yo.) - On holidays, I also think of my deceased great-grandmother.
- Example Sentence 7
- 이 앨범에는 우리 증조할머니 젊으셨을 때 사진이 있어요. (I ael-beom-e-neun u-ri jeung-jo-hal-meo-ni jeol-meu-syeo-sseul ttae sa-jin-i i-sseo-yo.) - This album has photos of my great-grandmother when she was young.
- Example Sentence 8
- 저는 증조할머니의 손맛을 잊을 수가 없어요. (Jeo-neun jeung-jo-hal-meo-ni-ui son-mat-eul i-jeul su-ga eop-seo-yo.) - I can't forget my great-grandmother's cooking.
- Example Sentence 9
- 제 증조할머니는 옛날이야기를 아주 잘 해주셨어요. (Je jeung-jo-hal-meo-ni-neun yet-nal-i-ya-gi-reul a-ju jal hae-ju-syeo-sseo-yo.) - My great-grandmother used to tell old stories very well.
- Example Sentence 10
- 가족사진에는 저와 부모님, 그리고 증조할머니까지 모두 함께 찍었어요. (Ga-jok-sa-jin-e-neun jeo-wa bu-mo-nim, geu-ri-go jeung-jo-hal-meo-ni-kka-ji mo-du ham-kke jjik-eoss-eo-yo.) - In the family photo, it was taken with me, my parents, and even my great-grandmother.
- Family Gatherings
- During holidays like Chuseok (Korean Thanksgiving) or Seollal (Lunar New Year), families often gather. Conversations might turn to relatives who are present, or those who have passed away. If a great-grandmother is alive and attending, she would be referred to as 증조할머니. Even if she is deceased, stories about her might be shared, using the term 증조할머니.
- Genealogy and Family History
- When people discuss their family tree or ancestors, the term 증조할머니 is naturally used to identify a specific ancestor. For example, someone might say, 'My 증조할머니 came from a small village in the countryside.' This context is common in documentaries, books, or personal narratives about family heritage.
- Personal Anecdotes and Stories
- Individuals often share personal stories about their family members. When recounting childhood memories, a person might say, 'I remember my 증조할머니 used to make the most delicious cookies.' These stories are common in casual conversations, social media posts, or even in written memoirs.
- Talking About Elders
- When describing one's family structure or talking about older relatives, the term 증조할머니 is used to specify the generation. For instance, 'I have a grandmother, and my grandmother has a mother, who is my 증조할머니.' This is common in explanations of family relationships to others.
- Cultural Programs and Media
- In dramas, movies, or TV shows that depict Korean family life, especially those set in historical periods or focusing on multi-generational families, the term 증조할머니 will be used by characters to refer to their great-grandmothers.
- Educational Materials
- Language learning materials, textbooks, and cultural guides about Korea will often introduce kinship terms, including 증조할머니, as part of learning Korean vocabulary and understanding Korean society.
- Formal Occasions
- At events like weddings or funerals, when the family lineage is discussed or acknowledged, the term 증조할머니 might be mentioned, especially if she was a significant figure in the family's history.
- Conversations about Ancestors
- When discussing one's roots or heritage, individuals might talk about their 증조할머니's life, her occupation, or her place of origin. This is a common topic when people want to share more about their background.
- Confusing with Grandmother
- A common mistake for learners is to use 증조할머니 when they actually mean 'grandmother' (할머니 - halmeoni). While both are terms for female elders, 증조할머니 is for a generation further back. It's crucial to remember that 증조할머니 is the mother of your grandmother or grandfather.
- Incorrect Pronunciation
- The word 증조할머니 has multiple syllables and specific Korean sounds. Mispronouncing it, especially the '증' (jeung) or '조' (jo) sounds, can make it difficult for native speakers to understand. For example, saying '준조할머니' (jun-jo-hal-meo-ni) instead of '증조할머니' (jeung-jo-hal-meo-ni) would be incorrect.
- Using it for Great-Grandfather
- Another mistake is using 증조할머니 to refer to a great-grandfather. The term for a great-grandfather is '증조할아버지' (jeung-jo-ha-ra-beo-ji). The '-할머니' suffix specifically denotes a female elder. Learners must differentiate between male and female terms for great-grandparents.
- Overusing or Underusing
- Some learners might avoid using the term 증조할머니 altogether, perhaps due to pronunciation fears or uncertainty. Conversely, others might use it too frequently in contexts where a simpler term like 'grandmother' or 'elderly woman' would suffice in English, but in Korean, the specific term is expected when referring to that generation.
- Confusing with Other Grandparent Terms
- Korean has distinct terms for paternal and maternal grandparents (e.g., 친할머니 - chin-halmeoni for paternal grandmother, 외할머니 - oe-halmeoni for maternal grandmother). While 증조할머니 does not typically have such a distinction in common usage, learners might mistakenly try to create one or confuse it with other nuanced grandparent terms. The term 증조할머니 generally covers both maternal and paternal great-grandmothers.
- Ignoring Honorifics
- While 증조할머니 is the word itself, forgetting to use appropriate honorifics when speaking to or about a living 증조할머니 can be considered disrespectful in Korean culture. This is not a mistake in vocabulary but in politeness, which is closely tied to language use.
- 할머니 (halmeoni)
- This is the most common word for 'grandmother'. It refers to your parent's mother. 증조할머니 is one generation further back.
- 친할머니 (chin-halmeoni)
- This specifically means 'paternal grandmother' (your father's mother). The term 증조할머니 typically does not distinguish between paternal and maternal great-grandmothers in common usage.
- 외할머니 (oe-halmeoni)
- This specifically means 'maternal grandmother' (your mother's mother). Again, 증조할머니 serves as the general term for great-grandmother.
- 증조부모 (jeung-jo-bu-mo)
- This is the plural term for 'great-grandparents' (both male and female). 증조할머니 is the singular, female term.
- 조부모 (jo-bu-mo)
- This means 'grandparents' (both male and female). It's two generations back, whereas 증조할머니 is three generations back.
- 시할머니 (si-halmeoni)
- This refers to one's husband's grandmother. It's a term used by a wife to refer to her husband's family members. 증조할머니 is a general term for one's own great-grandmother.
- 친정할머니 (chin-jeong-halmeoni)
- This term is less common but can refer to one's own mother's mother (maternal grandmother) specifically from the perspective of one's birth family. 증조할머니 refers to the generation above that.
- 고조할머니 (go-jo-hal-meo-ni)
- This means 'great-great-grandmother'. It is one generation further back than 증조할머니. This term is less frequently used in everyday conversation due to the generational distance.
How Formal Is It?
Fun Fact
In Korean culture, the term for great-grandmother, 증조할머니, is part of a rich system of kinship terms that meticulously define relationships across multiple generations. This detailed system reflects the historical importance of lineage and family structure in Korean society, where respecting elders and understanding one's place within the family tree has always been paramount.
Pronunciation Guide
- Pronouncing '증' (jeung) too hard, making it sound like 'jung'.
- Confusing the '조' (jo) sound with a simple 'z' sound.
- Not clearly enunciating the '니' (ni) at the end, making it sound rushed.
- Omitting the initial 'ㅈ' (j) sound in '증' (jeung) and saying it like 'eung'.
- Pronouncing '머' (meo) too much like 'moh'.
Difficulty Rating
At an A2 level, learners can understand simple texts about familiar topics. Sentences containing <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>증조할머니</mark> will likely be straightforward descriptions of family relationships or personal anecdotes. Difficulty increases with complex sentence structures or abstract concepts, pushing towards B1.
Learners at A2 can write simple sentences and short texts. Using <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>증조할머니</mark> in basic sentences about family is achievable. More complex usage requires higher proficiency.
Pronouncing and using <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>증조할머니</mark> correctly in simple conversation is an A2-level goal. Fluency and natural integration into complex sentences require further practice.
Recognizing <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>증조할머니</mark> in spoken Korean at a normal pace can be challenging at A2. Slower, clearer speech or context clues are helpful.
What to Learn Next
Prerequisites
Learn Next
Advanced
Grammar to Know
Honorifics (높임말 - nopimmal)
When speaking to or about a living 증조할머니, honorific suffixes like '-시-' are added to verbs and adjectives, and specific honorific nouns might be used. Ex: '가셨어요' (went - honorific) instead of '갔어요' (went).
Possessive Particles ('의' - ui)
To show that something belongs to the great-grandmother, use the particle '의'. Ex: '증조할머니의 사진' (Great-grandmother's photo).
Subject/Object Markers (께서 - kkesyeo / 를/을 - reul/eul)
Use '께서' when the great-grandmother is the subject performing an action (honorific). Use '를/을' when she is the object. Ex: '증조할머니께서 오셨어요.' (Great-grandmother came.) vs. '저는 증조할머니를 좋아해요.' (I like great-grandmother.)
Past Tense Verb Endings
To describe past events involving the great-grandmother, use past tense endings like '-았/었/였어요'. Ex: '증조할머니는 오래 사셨어요.' (Great-grandmother lived a long time.)
Descriptive Verbs (-이다 - ida)
To identify someone as the great-grandmother, use '-입니다' or '-예요/이에요'. Ex: '이분이 제 증조할머니예요.' (This person is my great-grandmother.)
Examples by Level
할머니
Grandmother
Basic noun for grandmother.
우리 증조할머니는 100살까지 사셨어요.
My great-grandmother lived to be 100 years old.
Using the possessive '우리' (our/my) with the noun.
증조할머니 댁에 갔어요.
I went to my great-grandmother's house.
Using the noun with a location particle '댁' (house/home of an elder).
증조할머니께서 맛있는 음식을 해주셨어요.
My great-grandmother made delicious food.
Using the honorific particle '께서' (께서) with the subject.
이 사진은 제 증조할머니예요.
This photo is of my great-grandmother.
Using the descriptive verb '-예요' (is/are).
증조할머니의 옛날 이야기가 재미있어요.
My great-grandmother's old stories are interesting.
Using the possessive particle '의' (of).
증조할머니는 친절하셨어요.
My great-grandmother was kind.
Using the past tense descriptive verb '-하셨어요' (was).
명절에 증조할머니를 생각해요.
I think of my great-grandmother on holidays.
Using the noun with the object particle '를' (object marker).
증조할머니는 제게 큰 영향을 주셨어요.
My great-grandmother had a great influence on me.
Using the verb phrase '영향을 주다' (to influence).
어릴 적, 우리 집은 시골에 있었고, 주말마다 증조할머니 댁에 방문하곤 했습니다.
When I was young, my house was in the countryside, and I used to visit my great-grandmother's house every weekend.
Using '-곤 하다' for habitual past actions.
할머니께서 들려주신 증조할머니의 젊은 시절 이야기는 마치 동화 같았습니다.
The stories my grandmother told me about my great-grandmother's youth were like a fairy tale.
Using the past tense of adjectives and complex sentence structures.
돌아가신 증조할머니의 손맛을 잊지 못해, 저도 요리를 배우기 시작했습니다.
Unable to forget my deceased great-grandmother's cooking skills, I also started learning to cook.
Using '-지 못하다' (unable to) and connecting clauses.
가족 앨범을 보다가 증조할머니의 옛날 사진을 발견했는데, 지금의 저와 많이 닮았더군요.
While looking through the family album, I found an old photo of my great-grandmother, and she looked very much like me now.
Using '-다가' (while doing X, Y happened) and '-더군요' (expression of realization).
증조할머니는 항상 주변 사람들에게 따뜻한 미소를 보여주셨고, 그 모습이 제게 큰 귀감이 되었습니다.
My great-grandmother always showed a warm smile to those around her, and that image became a great example for me.
Using '-고' (and) to connect clauses and '-게 되다' (to become).
증조할머니께서 쓰시던 오래된 자수는 아직도 저희 집 거실 한편을 장식하고 있습니다.
The old embroidery that my great-grandmother used is still decorating a corner of our living room.
Using the past tense descriptive verb and passive voice implicitly.
많은 세월이 흘렀지만, 증조할머니께서 심으신 과일나무는 여전히 열매를 맺고 있습니다.
Although many years have passed, the fruit tree that my great-grandmother planted is still bearing fruit.
Using '-지만' (although) and descriptive verbs.
가끔은 증조할머니가 살아계셨다면 어떤 조언을 해주셨을까 상상해봅니다.
Sometimes I imagine what advice my great-grandmother would have given if she were alive.
Using hypothetical conditional '-다면' (if) and '-았/었을까' (would have).
제가 겪었던 가장 큰 역경 속에서도, 제 마음속 깊은 곳에는 언제나 증조할머니께서 제게 가르쳐주신 삶의 지혜가 자리하고 있었습니다.
Even in the greatest adversity I experienced, the wisdom of life that my great-grandmother taught me always resided deep within my heart.
Complex sentence structure, use of abstract nouns, and subordinate clauses.
사진 속 증조할머니의 눈빛에서 느껴지는 강인함과 온화함은, 수많은 세월의 풍파를 겪으셨음에도 불구하고 변치 않는 인간적인 면모를 보여주는 듯했습니다.
The strength and warmth felt from my great-grandmother's eyes in the photo seemed to show an unchanging human aspect, despite having weathered countless storms of time.
Sophisticated vocabulary, descriptive adjectives, and nuanced expressions.
그녀의 삶은 단순한 가족력의 일부가 아니라, 공동체에 긍정적인 영향을 미치며 후손들에게 귀감이 된 한 인간의 숭고한 여정이었습니다.
Her life was not merely a part of family history, but a noble journey of a person who positively influenced the community and served as an example to her descendants.
Abstract concepts, formal vocabulary, and complex sentence construction.
증조할머니께서 남기신 유품 중에는 당시로서는 매우 귀했던 책들이 다수 포함되어 있었는데, 이는 그녀가 지적 호기심이 왕성했던 인물이었음을 시사합니다.
Among the belongings left by my great-grandmother were many books that were very rare at the time, suggesting she was a person with great intellectual curiosity.
Use of formal vocabulary, inferential language, and passive constructions.
시간이 흘러 역사의 변곡점을 여러 차례 겪었음에도 불구하고, 증조할머니께서 뿌리내리신 가치관은 우리 가족의 정신적 지주 역할을 굳건히 수행하고 있습니다.
Despite having gone through several turning points in history over time, the values that my great-grandmother instilled continue to firmly serve as the spiritual backbone of our family.
Metaphorical language, advanced vocabulary, and complex sentence structures.
그녀의 삶의 궤적을 따라가다 보면, 단순한 개인의 서사를 넘어 시대의 흐름과 그 속에서 한 인간이 어떻게 의미를 찾아가는지에 대한 깊은 통찰을 얻게 됩니다.
Following the trajectory of her life, one gains deep insight not just into an individual's narrative, but into the flow of the era and how a person finds meaning within it.
Abstract nouns, philosophical concepts, and complex sentence patterns.
증조할머니께서는 근검절약 정신을 몸소 실천하시며, 자녀들에게는 물론이고 주변 이웃들에게도 긍정적인 영향을 끼치셨습니다.
My great-grandmother personally practiced the spirit of frugality and diligence, positively influencing not only her children but also her neighbors.
Formal vocabulary, idiomatic expressions, and extended descriptions of influence.
그녀의 이야기는 단순히 과거의 한 인물을 조명하는 것을 넘어, 현재를 살아가는 우리에게도 시대를 초월하는 보편적인 교훈을 전달해 줍니다.
Her story goes beyond simply illuminating a figure from the past; it conveys universal lessons that transcend time to us living in the present.
Abstract concepts, comparative language, and emphasis on timeless lessons.
증조할머니께서 사셨던 시대는 격변의 연속이었음에도 불구하고, 그녀는 특유의 강인함과 지혜로 가족을 이끌며 숱한 난관을 극복해내셨습니다.
Despite the era in which my great-grandmother lived being a series of upheavals, she led her family with her unique strength and wisdom, overcoming numerous difficulties.
Advanced vocabulary, complex sentence structures with multiple clauses, and nuanced expressions of resilience.
그녀의 삶은 단순한 생존을 넘어, 당대 사회의 통념에 도전하며 새로운 가치를 창출하려는 숭고한 의지의 발현이었다고 평가할 수 있습니다.
Her life can be evaluated as a manifestation of a noble will to challenge the conventions of the society of her time and create new values, beyond mere survival.
Abstract and philosophical language, complex sentence construction, and evaluative statements.
증조할머니께서 남기신 회고록에는 당시 사회상을 엿볼 수 있는 생생한 기록들이 담겨 있어, 역사 연구에 귀중한 자료로 활용될 수 있습니다.
Her memoirs contain vivid records that offer a glimpse into the social conditions of the time, and can be utilized as valuable material for historical research.
Formal vocabulary, sophisticated sentence structures, and discussion of academic value.
그녀의 정신적 유산은 시대를 초월하여 우리 가족의 정체성을 형성하는 데 지대한 영향을 미쳤으며, 이는 단순한 혈연 이상의 깊은 유대감을 의미합니다.
Her spiritual legacy has profoundly influenced the formation of our family's identity, transcending time, which signifies a deep bond beyond mere kinship.
Abstract concepts, formal and literary language, and emphasis on profound influence.
증조할머니의 삶의 궤적은 개인의 서사를 넘어, 한 시대의 역사적 흐름과 그 속에서 개인이 어떻게 의미를 부여하고 실현해 나가는지에 대한 심오한 질문을 던집니다.
The trajectory of my great-grandmother's life, beyond an individual's narrative, poses profound questions about the historical currents of an era and how individuals imbue and realize meaning within them.
Philosophical and abstract language, complex sentence structures, and thematic depth.
그녀의 삶에서 발견되는 근검절약과 봉사의 미덕은, 물질적 풍요를 추구하는 현대 사회에 시사하는 바가 크며, 진정한 행복의 의미를 되새기게 합니다.
The virtues of frugality and service found in her life hold significant implications for modern society, which pursues material abundance, and prompt us to reconsider the meaning of true happiness.
Societal commentary, abstract virtues, and complex sentence structures with comparative elements.
증조할머니께서 심으신 작은 씨앗 하나가 수십 년의 세월을 거쳐 거목으로 성장하여, 우리 가족의 정신적 기반이 되었다는 사실은 경이롭기 그지없습니다.
The fact that a single small seed planted by my great-grandmother grew into a mighty tree over decades, becoming the spiritual foundation of our family, is nothing short of miraculous.
Metaphorical language, complex sentence structures emphasizing a fact, and strong expressions of wonder.
그녀의 삶은 단순히 과거의 유물이 아니라, 현재와 미래를 잇는 살아있는 유산으로서, 우리에게 끊임없이 영감을 제공하고 있습니다.
Her life is not merely an artifact of the past, but a living legacy connecting the present and the future, continuously providing us with inspiration.
Figurative language, abstract concepts of legacy and inspiration, and complex sentence structures.
증조할머니의 생애는 당대 사회의 복잡한 정치적, 경제적 격랑 속에서도 흔들리지 않는 내면의 견고함과, 숭고한 인간애를 바탕으로 가족 공동체를 보존하고 발전시킨 위대한 서사입니다.
My great-grandmother's life is a grand narrative that, even amidst the complex political and economic turbulence of her time, preserved and developed her family community based on an unshakeable inner fortitude and noble humanism.
Highly sophisticated vocabulary, complex sentence structure with multiple subordinate clauses, and abstract concepts of historical context and personal resilience.
그녀가 남긴 지혜의 정수는 단순히 윤리적 가르침을 넘어, 시대적 제약을 극복하고 개인의 잠재력을 최대한 발현시키고자 했던 실천적 의지의 결정체라 할 수 있습니다.
The essence of the wisdom she left behind can be said to be a crystallization of practical will, which aimed to overcome temporal constraints and fully realize individual potential, going beyond mere ethical teachings.
Abstract nouns, philosophical concepts, complex sentence structures with emphasis on essence and manifestation.
증조할머니의 삶의 궤적을 거시적으로 조망할 때, 개인의 서사를 넘어 한 시대의 사회경제적 변동과 그 속에서 개인이 어떻게 주체적으로 의미를 구성하고 삶의 방향을 설정하는지에 대한 심오한 성찰을 제공합니다.
When viewing the trajectory of my great-grandmother's life macroscopically, it offers profound reflections on the socioeconomic fluctuations of an era beyond an individual's narrative, and how individuals subjectively construct meaning and set life's direction within them.
Academic and philosophical language, complex sentence structures with emphasis on perspective and subjective construction of meaning.
그녀의 회고록에 나타난 필체와 어조는, 당시의 시대정신과 개인의 내면세계를 섬세하게 포착하고 있어, 단순한 역사적 기록을 넘어 문학적 가치 또한 지닌다고 평가받습니다.
The handwriting and tone appearing in her memoirs delicately capture the spirit of the age and the individual's inner world of that time, and are thus evaluated as possessing literary value beyond mere historical records.
Literary analysis, sophisticated vocabulary related to writing and emotion, and complex sentence structures.
증조할머니께서 실천하신 근검절약과 공동체 의식은, 현대 사회의 개인주의적 성향과 물질만능주의에 대한 강력한 반증이자, 진정한 행복의 근원을 탐색하는 데 있어 시대를 초월하는 지침을 제시합니다.
The frugality and community spirit practiced by my great-grandmother serve as a powerful counter-argument to the individualistic tendencies and materialism of modern society, and offer timeless guidance in exploring the source of true happiness.
Societal critique, abstract concepts, complex sentence structures with comparative and argumentative elements.
그녀의 삶에서 발현된 끈질긴 생명력과 긍정성은, 인간 존재의 본질적인 고뇌와 희망이 어떻게 상호작용하며 삶의 의미를 창출하는지에 대한 철학적 탐구의 중요한 단서를 제공합니다.
The persistent vitality and positivity manifested in her life provide important clues for philosophical inquiry into how the fundamental anguish and hope of human existence interact to create the meaning of life.
Philosophical concepts, abstract nouns, and complex sentence structures emphasizing interaction and creation of meaning.
증조할머니께서 후손들에게 남기신 정신적 유산은, 단순한 과거의 회상이 아니라, 현재의 삶을 풍요롭게 하고 미래를 개척하는 데 필요한 지혜와 용기를 부여하는 살아있는 동력입니다.
The spiritual legacy my great-grandmother left for her descendants is not merely a recollection of the past, but a living driving force that enriches present life and bestows the wisdom and courage necessary to forge the future.
Metaphorical language, abstract concepts of legacy and motivation, and complex sentence structures emphasizing continuous impact.
그녀의 삶의 여정은, 인간이 마주하는 필연적인 고난 속에서도 어떻게 자신만의 고유한 가치를 창조하고, 타인과의 관계 속에서 깊은 유대감을 형성하며, 궁극적으로는 인간 존재의 존엄성을 실현해 나갈 수 있는지에 대한 웅변적인 증거를 제시합니다.
Her life's journey presents eloquent evidence of how, even amidst the inevitable hardships humans face, one can create their own unique value, form deep bonds in relationships with others, and ultimately realize the dignity of human existence.
Abstract concepts of existence, value creation, and human dignity, utilizing complex sentence structures and eloquent language.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
— My great-grandmother. This is a common way to refer to one's own great-grandmother, showing a sense of belonging and familiarity.
우리 증조할머니는 옛날에 약방을 하셨어요. (My great-grandmother used to run a pharmacy in the past.)
— My great-grandmother's house. This phrase is used when referring to the place where the great-grandmother lives or lived. It often evokes warm memories.
어릴 적, 증조할머니 댁 마당에서 뛰어놀던 기억이 생생해요. (I vividly remember playing in the yard of my great-grandmother's house when I was young.)
— My great-grandmother (as the subject, with honorifics). This is used when the great-grandmother is performing an action, and it shows respect.
증조할머니께서 저를 위해 뜨개질을 해주셨어요. (My great-grandmother knitted for me.)
— My great-grandmother's cooking skills. This phrase refers to the delicious food prepared by the great-grandmother, often associated with nostalgia and fond memories.
아무도 증조할머니의 손맛을 잊지 못해요. (No one can forget my great-grandmother's cooking.)
— Like my great-grandmother. This is used for comparison, often when someone exhibits similar qualities or behaviors to their great-grandmother.
그녀는 증조할머니처럼 마음이 넓어요. (She has a broad mind, like her great-grandmother.)
— My great-grandmother's teachings. This refers to the lessons or advice passed down by the great-grandmother, which have had a lasting impact.
증조할머니의 가르침 덕분에 지금의 제가 있을 수 있었어요. (Thanks to my great-grandmother's teachings, I am who I am today.)
— My deceased great-grandmother. This phrase is used when referring to a great-grandmother who has passed away, often in a context of remembrance or respect.
돌아가신 증조할머니의 제사를 지내기로 했습니다. (We decided to perform the ancestral rites for my deceased great-grandmother.)
— My great-grandmother's old stories. This refers to the tales and anecdotes shared by the great-grandmother, often about the past.
증조할머니의 옛날 이야기는 언제 들어도 흥미로워요. (My great-grandmother's old stories are always interesting to listen to.)
— My great-grandmother (formal, as subject). Similar to '증조할머니께서', this is a respectful way to refer to her when she is the subject of a sentence.
증조할머니께서는 늘 겸손하셨습니다. (My great-grandmother was always humble.)
— My great-grandmother's influence. This refers to the impact or effect that the great-grandmother had on others or on the family.
그녀의 삶에는 증조할머니의 영향이 깊게 배어 있었습니다. (Her life was deeply imbued with her great-grandmother's influence.)
Often Confused With
This is the most common confusion. 증조할머니 is one generation further back than '할머니'.
This is the male counterpart. 증조할머니 specifically refers to a female great-grandparent.
These specify maternal and paternal grandmothers, respectively. 증조할머니 generally refers to either maternal or paternal great-grandmother without this distinction in common use.
Idioms & Expressions
— It takes three generations to accumulate enough virtue to meet each other. This idiom is sometimes used to express the rarity and good fortune of having multiple generations of a family together, including a great-grandmother.
증조할머니와 손주가 함께 있는 모습을 보니, 정말 삼대가 덕을 쌓아야 만날 수 있다는 말이 맞는 것 같아요. (Seeing my great-grandmother and grandchild together, I feel the saying that it takes three generations to accumulate enough virtue to meet is true.)
— Resembling a pasqueflower. The pasqueflower (할미꽃 - halmikot) is often associated with elderly women, particularly grandmothers and great-grandmothers, due to its appearance. This is a descriptive phrase.
증조할머니의 흰 머리카락은 할미꽃 닮은 모습이었어요. (My great-grandmother's white hair looked like a pasqueflower.)
— Traces of time. This phrase is often used to describe the physical appearance of elders, including great-grandmothers, reflecting their long lives and experiences.
증조할머니의 얼굴에는 세월의 흔적이 깊게 새겨져 있었지만, 그 눈빛은 여전히 빛났습니다. (The traces of time were deeply etched on my great-grandmother's face, but her eyes still shone.)
— Someone one thinks of during holidays. This phrase is often used for deceased relatives, including great-grandmothers, as holidays are times for family remembrance.
돌아가신 증조할머니는 명절 때면 늘 가장 먼저 생각나는 분이세요. (My deceased great-grandmother is the first person I always think of during holidays.)
— The cute antics of grandchildren. This is something a great-grandmother would enjoy witnessing, highlighting the generational joy.
증조할머니는 손주들의 재롱을 보며 함박웃음을 지으셨습니다. (My great-grandmother smiled broadly watching her grandchildren's cute antics.)
— A bundle of old stories. This metaphor describes someone, often an elder like a great-grandmother, who has many stories from the past to tell.
증조할머니는 옛날 이야기 보따리를 푸셔서 저희를 즐겁게 해주셨어요. (My great-grandmother opened her bundle of old stories and entertained us.)
— Wisdom of life. This is often attributed to elders who have lived long lives, such as great-grandmothers, and who share their accumulated knowledge.
증조할머니께서 들려주신 인생의 지혜는 제게 큰 가르침이 되었습니다. (The wisdom of life that my great-grandmother shared became a great lesson for me.)
— A tree with deep roots. This metaphor is used to describe a family or an individual with a strong foundation and history, often referring to the elders like great-grandmothers as the source of this strength.
우리 가족은 증조할머니로부터 뿌리 깊은 나무처럼 든든하게 이어져 왔습니다. (Our family has been steadily connected like a tree with deep roots, starting from my great-grandmother.)
— A warm embrace/bosom. This phrase evokes feelings of comfort and love, often associated with elderly family members like great-grandmothers.
증조할머니의 따뜻한 품에 안기면 모든 걱정이 사라지는 것 같았어요. (When I was held in my great-grandmother's warm embrace, all my worries seemed to disappear.)
— Full of affection/warmth. This describes someone who is very loving and caring, a trait often associated with elderly women like great-grandmothers.
증조할머니는 정말 정이 많으셔서 누구에게나 친절하셨어요. (My great-grandmother was truly full of affection and was kind to everyone.)
Easily Confused
Both refer to elderly female relatives within the grandparent generation.
<mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>증조할머니</mark> is the mother of your grandmother or grandfather (great-grandmother), while '할머니' is your parent's mother (grandmother). <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>증조할머니</mark> is two generations removed from you, whereas '할머니' is one generation removed.
My grandmother (할머니) is alive, and my great-grandmother (증조할머니) passed away long ago.
Both share the '증조' prefix indicating the great-grandparent generation.
<mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>증조할머니</mark> refers specifically to a female great-grandparent, whereas '증조할아버지' refers to a male great-grandparent.
My great-grandmother (증조할머니) was a talented cook, and my great-grandfather (증조할아버지) was a skilled carpenter.
Both relate to grandparents.
'조부모' is a general term for grandparents (both paternal and maternal grandparents combined), representing two generations back from you. <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>증조할머니</mark> refers to a great-grandmother, three generations back.
We visited our grandparents (조부모) last week. My great-grandmother (증조할머니) always told us stories.
Both use the '-할머니' suffix and indicate a distant ancestor.
<mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>증조할머니</mark> means great-grandmother (three generations back). '고조할머니' means great-great-grandmother (four generations back).
We have a photo of our great-grandmother (증조할머니), and our great-great-grandmother (고조할머니) is only known through family records.
Both refer to a grandmother figure within the family context.
<mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>증조할머니</mark> is your own direct great-grandmother. '시할머니' is specifically your husband's grandmother, used from the wife's perspective.
My great-grandmother (증조할머니) lived a long life. My husband's great-grandmother (시할머니) was a very respected woman.
Sentence Patterns
Subject + <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>증조할머니</mark> + Verb/Adjective.
우리 <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>증조할머니</mark>는 친절하셨어요.
Possessive + <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>증조할머니</mark> + Noun.
제 <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>증조할머니</mark>의 집은 시골에 있어요.
<mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>증조할머니</mark>께서 + Verb.
<mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>증조할머니</mark>께서 노래를 불러주셨어요.
Noun + <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>증조할머니</mark> + 입니다/예요.
이 사진 속의 할머니는 제 <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>증조할머니</mark>예요.
Noun + <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>증조할머니</mark> + 의 + Noun + -(으)ㄴ/는 + Verb.
증조할머니의 옛날이야기는 언제 들어도 재미있어요.
Subject + <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>증조할머니</mark> + 처럼 + Adjective.
그녀는 <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>증조할머니</mark>처럼 현명해요.
Clause 1 + -(으)므로 / -(으)니까 + <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>증조할머니</mark> + Verb.
증조할머니께서 오래 사셨으므로, 많은 이야기를 들을 수 있었어요.
Noun + <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>증조할머니</mark> + 와/과 + Noun + -(으)ㄴ/는 + Verb.
할머니와 <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>증조할머니</mark>의 차례를 지냈습니다.
Word Family
Nouns
Related
How to Use It
Medium. While not used in every conversation, it's common when discussing family history, elders, or specific ancestors.
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Using '할머니' instead of '증조할머니'.
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증조할머니
This is a common error for learners. '할머니' means grandmother, while <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>증조할머니</mark> specifically refers to a great-grandmother, who is your grandmother's mother or grandfather's mother. It's a different generation.
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Mispronouncing the '증' (jeung) sound.
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증조할머니
The '증' sound is often mispronounced. It's a soft 'j' sound followed by 'uhng'. Practicing with native speaker audio is recommended. Saying it like 'jung' or 'eung' is incorrect.
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Using '증조할머니' for a great-grandfather.
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증조할아버지
The suffix '-할머니' specifically denotes a female elder. For a male great-grandparent, the correct term is '증조할아버지' (jeung-jo-ha-ra-beo-ji).
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Confusing the generational distance.
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증조할머니 (3 generations back)
Learners might confuse <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>증조할머니</mark> (great-grandmother) with '조부모' (grandparents - 2 generations back) or '고조할머니' (great-great-grandmother - 4 generations back). It's important to remember the specific number of generations.
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Forgetting honorifics when speaking about a living 증조할머니.
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Using honorific speech
While <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>증조할머니</mark> is the word, failing to use honorific speech (like adding '-시-' to verbs) when referring to a living great-grandmother can be seen as disrespectful in Korean culture. This is more a grammatical/cultural error than a vocabulary one, but crucial for proper usage.
Tips
Mastering the 'Jeung' Sound
The initial sound '증' (jeung) in 증조할머니 can be tricky. It's a combination of a 'j' sound (like in 'judge') followed by 'uhng'. Practice saying 'judge-uhng' quickly to get close. Listen to native speakers and mimic them.
Respect for Elders
Remember that Korean culture places a high value on respecting elders. When referring to a living 증조할머니, always use honorifics and polite language. This is a crucial aspect of using the term correctly in social situations.
Visual Association
Create a vivid mental image. Imagine a very old, wise woman with a long history, perhaps sitting under a large, ancient tree representing her deep roots in the family. Associate this image with the sound 'jeung-jo-hal-meo-ni'.
Distinguishing Generations
Always be clear about the generational difference. '할머니' is grandmother, '증조할머니' is great-grandmother. Ensure you're using the correct term for the specific ancestor you're referring to to avoid confusion.
Learning Related Terms
To fully understand 증조할머니, also learn '증조할아버지' (great-grandfather), '할머니' (grandmother), and '할아버지' (grandfather). This will build a stronger foundation in Korean kinship vocabulary.
Sentence Construction
Practice using 증조할머니 in simple sentences. Try describing what she was like, where she lived, or a memory you have of her. For example: '우리 증조할머니는 요리를 잘하셨어요.' (My great-grandmother was good at cooking.)
Family Conversations
Listen to how native speakers discuss their families. Pay attention to when and how they use terms like 증조할머니. This will provide natural examples of its usage.
Breaking Down the Word
Understand that 증조 means 'great-grandparent generation' and '할머니' means 'grandmother'. This breakdown helps in remembering the meaning and structure.
Avoiding Mispronunciation
Be careful not to confuse the '증' sound with 'jung' or the '조' sound with a simple 'z'. Accurate pronunciation is key for clear communication.
Generational Connection
Think of 증조할머니 as representing a deep connection to your family's past. She is a symbol of heritage and the continuity of life.
Memorize It
Mnemonic
Think of 'JUNGLE' (증) where many 'grandmothers' (할머니) live. Your 'great' (증) grandmothers live in the 'JUNGLE' of family history. Or, imagine a 'JUNGLE' gym where you have to climb many levels to reach your 'great' (증) 'grandmother' (할머니).
Visual Association
Picture a very old, wise woman wearing traditional Korean attire, perhaps sitting in a rocking chair with a quilt. She has a gentle smile and her hair is white. She represents the deep roots of your family tree. Associate her with the sound 'jeung-jo-hal-meo-ni'.
Word Web
Challenge
Try to say 증조할머니 three times fast, then explain what it means to a friend or family member without using the English word 'great-grandmother'.
Word Origin
The word 증조할머니 is a compound word derived from Korean roots. It clearly breaks down into its constituent parts, reflecting the familial relationship it signifies. The term '증조' (jeungjo) refers to the generation of great-grandparents, while '할머니' (halmeoni) means grandmother. Thus, literally, it means 'great-grandmother'. This structure is consistent with how many Korean kinship terms are formed, by combining generational prefixes with basic familial roles.
Original meaning: Great-grandmother.
KoreanicCultural Context
When referring to a living 증조할머니, it is crucial to use honorific language in Korean. This shows deep respect. If the great-grandmother has passed away, referring to her respectfully as '돌아가신 증조할머니' (deceased great-grandmother) is appropriate.
In English-speaking cultures, 'great-grandmother' is the direct equivalent. While the concept of respecting elders exists, the detailed, multi-generational kinship system found in Korea is less pronounced in everyday English conversation.
Practice in Real Life
Real-World Contexts
Talking about family members and relationships.
- 우리 가족은...
- 제 할머니는...
- 증조할머니께서...
- 몇 대째 내려오는...
Sharing personal stories and memories.
- 어렸을 때...
- 기억나요...
- 그때는...
- 증조할머니의 손맛...
Discussing family history and genealogy.
- 우리 집안은...
- 조상 중에...
- 몇 년 전에...
- 족보를 보면...
Expressing respect for elders.
- 존경합니다.
- 감사합니다.
- 오래 사세요.
- 항상 건강하세요.
Describing physical appearance or characteristics.
- 머리가 하얘요.
- 주름이 많아요.
- 눈빛이 따뜻해요.
- 인자해 보이세요.
Conversation Starters
"Do you know who your great-grandmother was?"
"What stories do you know about your great-grandmother?"
"If your great-grandmother were alive today, what would you ask her?"
"How important is it to you to know about your great-grandparents?"
"What is one thing you admire about your great-grandmother (or the idea of one)?"
Journal Prompts
Write about a memory you have of your great-grandmother, or imagine what it would be like to meet her.
Describe the role of elders in your family or culture. How does this compare to the role of a <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>증조할머니</mark> in Korean culture?
If you could ask your great-grandmother one question about her life, what would it be and why?
Reflect on the concept of legacy. What kind of legacy do you think your great-grandmother would have wanted to leave?
Imagine you are writing a letter to your great-grandmother. What would you say?
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questionsThe difference lies in the generation. '할머니' (halmeoni) means grandmother, referring to your parent's mother. 증조할머니 (jeung-jo-hal-meo-ni) means great-grandmother, which is the mother of your grandmother or grandfather. So, 증조할머니 is two generations further back than '할머니'.
In common everyday Korean, 증조할머니 is used for both maternal and paternal great-grandmothers. While there are specific terms for maternal ('외할머니') and paternal ('친할머니') grandmothers, this distinction is not typically made for great-grandmothers in casual speech. For a more formal or historical context, one might use '증조모' (jeung-jo-mo), but 증조할머니 remains the most common and understood term.
The pronunciation is approximately 'jeung-jo-hal-meo-ni'. Break it down: 'jeung' (like 'j' in judge + 'uhng'), 'jo' (like 'choh'), 'hal' (like 'hall'), 'meo' (short 'uh' sound), 'ni' (like 'nee'). The stress is relatively even, with a slight emphasis on 'jeung' and 'halmeo'.
You would use 증조할머니 when referring to your great-grandmother. This is common in discussions about family history, when sharing memories of older relatives, or when explaining your family tree. If the great-grandmother is alive, you would use honorific language when speaking to or about her.
증조할머니 is a neutral term. It is respectful and appropriate for most situations when referring to a great-grandmother. For very formal situations or in writing, '증조모' (jeung-jo-mo) might be used, but 증조할머니 is widely understood and used.
'증조' (jeungjo) is a prefix in Korean kinship terms that signifies the 'great-grandparent' generation. It is used before '할머니' (grandmother) to make 증조할머니 (great-grandmother) and before '할아버지' (grandfather) to make '증조할아버지' (great-grandfather).
No, if you are referring to your husband's great-grandmother, you would typically use the term '시증조할머니' (si-jeung-jo-hal-meo-ni), or more commonly, your husband would refer to her as his 증조할머니, and you would refer to her in relation to him. 증조할머니 is for your own direct ancestor.
A 증조할머니 is three generations back from you. You are generation 1, your parents are generation 2, your grandparents are generation 3, and your great-grandparents are generation 4.
Korean nouns don't typically have strict plural forms, especially for specific individuals. If you need to refer to multiple great-grandmothers (which is unlikely unless discussing different family branches), you might say '증조할머니들' (jeung-jo-hal-meo-ni-deul), but it's more common to use context or specific phrasing. For a single great-grandmother, it remains 증조할머니.
While not directly using 증조할머니, idioms related to elders, long lives, and family history might be associated. For example, '삼대가 덕을 쌓아야 만난다' (It takes three generations to accumulate virtue to meet) can imply the rarity of seeing multiple generations together, including a great-grandmother. Phrases describing '세월의 흔적' (traces of time) on an elder's face are also relevant.
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Summary
The Korean word for great-grandmother is <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>증조할머니</mark> (jeung-jo-hal-meo-ni). It is used to refer to your grandmother's mother or your grandfather's mother, emphasizing respect for elders and family history.
- Great-grandmother in Korean is <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>증조할머니</mark>.
- <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>증조할머니</mark> refers to your grandparent's mother.
- It's a term showing respect for elders and family lineage.
- Commonly used in family discussions and when referring to ancestors.
Mastering the 'Jeung' Sound
The initial sound '증' (jeung) in 증조할머니 can be tricky. It's a combination of a 'j' sound (like in 'judge') followed by 'uhng'. Practice saying 'judge-uhng' quickly to get close. Listen to native speakers and mimic them.
Respect for Elders
Remember that Korean culture places a high value on respecting elders. When referring to a living 증조할머니, always use honorifics and polite language. This is a crucial aspect of using the term correctly in social situations.
Visual Association
Create a vivid mental image. Imagine a very old, wise woman with a long history, perhaps sitting under a large, ancient tree representing her deep roots in the family. Associate this image with the sound 'jeung-jo-hal-meo-ni'.
Distinguishing Generations
Always be clear about the generational difference. '할머니' is grandmother, '증조할머니' is great-grandmother. Ensure you're using the correct term for the specific ancestor you're referring to to avoid confusion.
Related Content
This Word in Other Languages
More family words
백일
A2100th day celebration (of a baby).
환갑
A260th birthday celebration.
칠순
A270th birthday celebration.
팔순
A280th birthday celebration.
알아주다
B1To recognize/understand (feelings); to acknowledge someone's thoughts or efforts.
입양아
A2Adopted child; a child legally taken into another family.
양녀
B1Adopted daughter.
입양
A2Adoption; legally taking another's child as one's own.
귀여워하다
A2To adore, to find cute, to cherish.
정답다
A2To be affectionate; to be friendly.
