This page in your language
فارسی العربية Deutsch Español Français 日本語 한국어 Português 中文 हिन्दी
B2 noun #2,000 most common 11 min read

재고

jaego
Practice it Examples Notes & Tips 재고 in 30 Seconds
Explanation 재고 in your Level:
At the A1 beginner level, learners do not need to actively use or even recognize the formal Sino-Korean word '재고'. The concept of 'reconsidering' or 'thinking again' is certainly relevant to beginners, but it is expressed using much simpler, native Korean vocabulary. At this stage, learners are taught the verb '생각하다' (to think) and the adverb '다시' (again). By combining these, beginners can easily express the idea of reconsideration by saying '다시 생각해요' (I think again) or '다시 생각해 보세요' (Please think again). These phrases are perfectly adequate for everyday situations, such as deciding what to eat, where to go, or whether to buy an item. Introducing '재고' at this level would be overwhelming and unnecessary, as it involves complex Hanja concepts and is restricted to formal registers that A1 learners are not yet expected to navigate. The focus at A1 is on building a foundational vocabulary for survival and basic communication. Therefore, while the English concept of 'reconsideration' exists, the Korean translation provided to A1 learners will always be the accessible, conversational '다시 생각하다'. Teachers and learning materials will avoid '재고' entirely to prevent confusion with the homonym '재고' (inventory), which is also too advanced for this stage. Mastery of '다시 생각하다' provides the necessary stepping stone for eventually understanding more nuanced and formal synonyms in later stages of language acquisition.
Sign up free to read full explanation
As learners progress to the A2 elementary level, their vocabulary expands to include more varied expressions of thought and decision-making, but '재고' remains largely outside their active vocabulary requirements. A2 learners are becoming more comfortable with different verb endings and polite forms (요 form and 습니다 form). They will continue to rely heavily on '다시 생각하다' but will learn to use it in slightly more complex structures, such as '다시 생각해 볼게요' (I will think about it again) or '다시 생각하는 게 좋겠어요' (It would be better to think about it again). At this level, learners might begin to encounter very basic formal situations, such as speaking to a teacher or a shop owner, but native Korean phrases are still entirely appropriate and preferred. The word '재고' might occasionally appear in reading materials designed to challenge A2 learners, perhaps in a simplified news headline or a formal notice, but they are not expected to produce it. If they do encounter it, it is usually sufficient for them to understand it passively as a formal synonym for '다시 생각하다'. The primary goal at the A2 level is to solidify conversational fluency and basic social interactions, where overly formal Sino-Korean vocabulary like '재고' can sound unnatural if used incorrectly. Therefore, the focus remains on mastering the native Korean equivalents and understanding how to apply different levels of politeness to those simpler phrases.
Sign up free to read full explanation
At the B1 intermediate level, learners experience a significant shift in their Korean language journey, moving from purely conversational language to encountering more formal, written, and professional Korean. It is at this stage that '재고' is introduced as a receptive vocabulary word. B1 learners will start reading intermediate texts, watching news broadcasts, and perhaps engaging with Korean corporate culture or formal emails. In these contexts, they will see and hear '재고하다' (to reconsider) and '재고를 요청하다' (to request reconsideration). While they might still default to '다시 생각하다' in their own speaking and writing, they must be able to comprehend '재고' when it is directed at them or when reading about it. This is also the critical stage where the distinction between '재고' (reconsideration) and '재고' (inventory) must be explicitly taught, as B1 learners are expanding their vocabulary in both business and general contexts. Teachers will emphasize that '재고' is a Sino-Korean word that elevates the formality of a sentence. Learners at this level are encouraged to start practicing '재고' in structured writing assignments, such as drafting a formal email or writing an opinion essay where they argue that a certain rule needs to be reconsidered. Understanding the register and the appropriate collocations (like '신중히 재고하다') becomes an important part of their learning process, bridging the gap between everyday chat and professional communication.
Sign up free to read full explanation
The B2 upper-intermediate level is where '재고' becomes an active and essential part of a learner's vocabulary. At this stage, learners are expected to communicate effectively in a wide range of professional, academic, and formal social settings. They must be able to express complex opinions, negotiate, and make formal requests. '재고' is the perfect tool for these tasks. B2 learners should confidently use phrases like '결정을 재고해 주시기 바랍니다' (Please reconsider the decision) in professional correspondence or '이 문제는 재고의 여지가 없습니다' (This issue has no room for reconsideration) in debates or discussions. They are expected to understand the nuanced difference between '재고' (reconsidering a decision), '검토' (reviewing details), and '고려' (taking factors into account). Using '다시 생각하다' in a formal business presentation at the B2 level would be considered a slight weakness in vocabulary range, so the active deployment of '재고' demonstrates language proficiency and cultural competence. Furthermore, B2 learners should be fully aware of the homonym issue and never confuse reconsideration with inventory in context. They will practice using '재고' with appropriate adverbs (e.g., 전면적으로, 긍정적으로) and in complex grammatical structures, such as passive forms (재고되어야 한다) or causative forms, solidifying their ability to navigate high-level Korean discourse with accuracy and appropriate tone.
At the C1 advanced level, learners possess a near-native command of formal Korean and use '재고' with high precision and rhetorical skill. They do not just use the word to make simple requests; they employ it strategically in negotiations, academic writing, and complex debates to persuade, challenge, or diplomatically push back against opposing views. A C1 learner understands the psychological weight of asking for '재고' in Korean hierarchical culture and knows exactly how to soften the request with advanced honorifics and indirect grammar patterns to avoid causing offense. They might use sophisticated expressions like '기존의 방침을 원점에서 재고할 필요성이 대두되고 있습니다' (The need to reconsider the existing policy from square one is emerging). At this level, learners are also comfortable reading advanced literature, legal documents, and political analyses where '재고' is used to discuss systemic changes, historical revisions, or judicial appeals. They can effortlessly distinguish between highly nuanced synonyms like '숙고', '반성', and '재고', choosing the exact word that fits the micro-context of their argument. The use of '재고' at the C1 level is characterized by fluidity, cultural appropriateness, and the ability to integrate the word into long, complex, and highly formal sentence structures without hesitation.
Sign up free to read full explanation
For C2 learners, who demonstrate mastery and near-native fluency, '재고' is utilized with the utmost sophistication, identical to how a highly educated native Korean speaker would use it. At this pinnacle of language proficiency, learners can manipulate the word in highly specialized fields such as law, diplomacy, advanced academia, and executive-level business. They can appreciate and produce texts where '재고' is used in abstract or philosophical contexts, such as '인간의 본성에 대한 근본적인 재고' (a fundamental reconsideration of human nature). C2 learners are adept at using '재고' in spontaneous, high-stakes verbal interactions, such as a live debate or a high-level negotiation, where they must articulate complex counter-arguments instantly. They understand the historical and etymological roots of the Hanja (再考) and can play with these roots if necessary for rhetorical effect. Furthermore, they can recognize and correct subtle misuses of the word by others, demonstrating a deep, intuitive grasp of Korean semantics and pragmatics. At the C2 level, '재고' is not just a vocabulary word; it is a precise linguistic instrument used to navigate the most demanding and nuanced communicative environments in the Korean language, reflecting a profound understanding of Korean societal structures and formal discourse.
Sign up free to read full explanation
Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

재고 in 30 Seconds

  • Means 'reconsideration' or 'rethinking' in formal contexts.
  • Formed from Hanja: 再 (재 - again) and 考 (고 - think).
  • Commonly used as a verb: 재고하다 (to reconsider).
  • Do not confuse with the homonym '재고' meaning 'inventory'.

The Korean word '재고' (jaego) is a formal noun that translates to 'reconsideration' or 'rethinking' in English. It is derived from Sino-Korean roots, specifically the Hanja characters 再 (재), which means 'again' or 're-', and 考 (고), which means 'to think', 'to consider', or 'to examine'. When combined, these characters form a word that carries the literal meaning of 'thinking again'. In practical usage, '재고' is employed when someone is asked to review a previous decision, change their mind about a specific stance, or evaluate a situation with a fresh perspective, often in light of new information or changing circumstances. This word is heavily utilized in formal, professional, academic, and diplomatic contexts rather than in casual, everyday conversation. For instance, while you might tell a friend '다시 생각해 봐' (think about it again) in a casual setting, you would use '재고해 주시기 바랍니다' (please reconsider) when addressing a business partner, a superior, or an official entity. Understanding the weight and formality of '재고' is crucial for mastering advanced Korean, as it demonstrates a speaker's ability to navigate complex social hierarchies and professional etiquette. The concept of reconsideration in Korean culture often involves a delicate balance of respect and assertiveness. Asking someone to reconsider a decision can be seen as challenging their authority or judgment, so it is typically softened with polite verb endings and honorifics. Therefore, '재고' is rarely used as a standalone command; it is almost always paired with verbs like '하다' (to do) or '요청하다' (to request) and wrapped in polite grammatical structures. Furthermore, it is essential to distinguish this word from its homonym, '재고' (在庫), which means 'inventory' or 'stock'. While they sound identical and are spelled the same in Hangul, their Hanja roots and contextual applications are entirely different. Misusing these two words is a common pitfall for intermediate learners, but paying attention to the surrounding vocabulary—such as business logistics versus decision-making processes—will quickly clarify which meaning is intended.

Hanja Breakdown
再 (재) - Again, twice, re-
Hanja Breakdown
考 (고) - Think, consider, examine
Core Concept
The formal act of reviewing a decision to potentially alter the outcome.

이 결정은 재고의 여지가 없습니다.

This decision has no room for reconsideration.

정부는 정책을 전면 재고하기로 했습니다.

The government decided to completely reconsider the policy.

사형 제도에 대한 재고가 필요합니다.

A reconsideration of the death penalty system is necessary.

그의 제안은 재고할 가치가 충분하다.

His proposal is well worth reconsidering.

우리는 그 문제를 신중히 재고하고 있습니다.

We are carefully reconsidering the issue.

Using '재고' correctly requires an understanding of its grammatical function and the specific collocations it forms. As a noun, '재고' is most frequently transformed into a verb by adding '하다', creating '재고하다' (to reconsider). This verb is transitive, meaning it requires a direct object, typically marked by the particles '을' or '를'. For example, '계획을 재고하다' means 'to reconsider the plan'. Beyond the basic verb form, '재고' appears in several fixed expressions and idiomatic phrases that are highly prevalent in formal Korean. One of the most common phrases is '재고의 여지가 없다', which translates to 'there is no room for reconsideration'. This is a strong, definitive statement used to shut down further debate or negotiation. Another frequent construction is '재고를 요청하다' (to request a reconsideration), which is the standard, polite way to ask a superior, a company, or a government body to change a decision. You will also frequently encounter the phrase '재고할 가치가 있다/없다', meaning 'it is worth / not worth reconsidering'. When constructing sentences with '재고', the tone is inherently serious and professional. Therefore, it naturally pairs with adverbs that emphasize careful thought, such as '신중히' (carefully), '심도 있게' (in-depth), '전면적으로' (completely/comprehensively), and '긍정적으로' (positively). For instance, '긍정적으로 재고해 주십시오' (Please reconsider it positively) is a standard closing remark in business proposals or appeals. It is also important to note the passive and causative forms. While '재고되다' (to be reconsidered) is grammatically correct and used when the focus is on the subject being reviewed (e.g., '그 법안은 재고되어야 한다' - The bill must be reconsidered), the active form '재고하다' is generally preferred for clarity and directness. In terms of register, '재고' belongs firmly in the '존댓말' (polite/formal language) spectrum when interacting with others. Using it in '반말' (casual language) can sound jarring or overly dramatic, akin to using highly academic English with a close friend at a bar. Instead, casual situations call for native Korean equivalents like '다시 생각해 보다'. Mastering the use of '재고' elevates your Korean from conversational to professional, allowing you to participate in debates, negotiations, and formal correspondence with confidence and cultural appropriateness.

Verb Form
재고하다 (To reconsider)
Common Phrase
재고의 여지 (Room for reconsideration)
Adverb Pairing
신중히 재고하다 (To reconsider carefully)

계약 조건을 다시 한번 재고해 주시길 부탁드립니다.

I ask that you please reconsider the contract conditions once more.

법원은 피고인의 항소를 재고하기로 결정했다.

The court decided to reconsider the defendant's appeal.

이 프로젝트는 예산 문제로 전면 재고가 불가피합니다.

A complete reconsideration of this project is inevitable due to budget issues.

그의 사퇴 의사는 재고의 여지가 없어 보인다.

His intention to resign seems to have no room for reconsideration.

고객님의 요청을 긍정적으로 재고하겠습니다.

We will positively reconsider your request.

The word '재고' is a staple of formal Korean communication and is predominantly heard and read in professional, academic, legal, and political environments. If you are watching Korean news broadcasts, you will frequently hear anchors and reporters use '재고' when discussing government policies, corporate strategies, or international relations. For example, a news segment might state that the government is 'reconsidering' (재고하고 있다) a controversial tax law due to public backlash. In the corporate world, '재고' is standard vocabulary in boardrooms, business meetings, and formal email correspondence. When a company rejects a proposal but wishes to remain polite, they might say they will 'reconsider it in the future' (추후 재고하겠습니다), or a vendor might formally ask a client to 'reconsider the pricing terms' (단가 재고를 요청드립니다). Legal dramas and courtroom settings in Korean media also heavily feature this word. Lawyers will ask judges to 'reconsider' a ruling, or a character might state that a piece of evidence leaves 'no room for reconsideration' (재고의 여지가 없다) regarding the defendant's guilt. Furthermore, '재고' is common in academic writing and debates, where scholars might argue that a long-held theory requires 'reconsideration' (재고가 필요하다) in light of new data. You will also encounter it in customer service interactions, particularly in formal written responses to complaints or appeals. If a user's account is banned and they submit an appeal, the company's automated or formal response might state that the decision is final and 'will not be reconsidered' (재고되지 않습니다). Conversely, in everyday, casual settings—such as chatting with friends at a cafe, talking to family members, or discussing weekend plans—the word '재고' is almost entirely absent. Using it in such contexts would sound unnaturally stiff, overly dramatic, or even humorous, as if you were treating a simple choice of a restaurant like a high-stakes diplomatic treaty. Understanding these contextual boundaries is vital. By paying attention to where '재고' is used in Korean dramas, news, and business contexts, learners can develop a natural intuition for its appropriate application and elevate their formal Korean proficiency.

Context 1
Business Meetings and Negotiations
Context 2
News Broadcasts and Political Commentary
Context 3
Legal and Official Documents

야당은 여당의 예산안 통과를 재고하라고 촉구했다.

The opposition party urged the ruling party to reconsider the passage of the budget bill.

회사 측은 노조의 요구를 재고할 뜻이 없음을 분명히 했다.

The company made it clear that it has no intention of reconsidering the union's demands.

이 논문은 기존의 역사적 관점을 재고하게 만든다.

This paper makes us reconsider existing historical perspectives.

귀하의 지원서를 신중히 검토하였으나, 불합격 결정을 재고하기는 어렵습니다.

We have carefully reviewed your application, but it is difficult to reconsider the rejection decision.

재판장님, 부디 이 증거를 바탕으로 판결을 재고해 주십시오.

Your Honor, please reconsider the verdict based on this evidence.

When learning and using the word '재고', Korean learners frequently encounter a few specific pitfalls. The most prominent and potentially embarrassing mistake is confusing '재고' (再考 - reconsideration) with its exact homonym '재고' (在庫 - inventory/stock). Because they are pronounced and spelled identically in Hangul, the distinction relies entirely on context and the verbs they pair with. For example, '재고가 없다' can mean 'there is no room for reconsideration' (if discussing a decision) OR 'there is no inventory/stock' (if discussing a product in a store). A learner might try to say 'Please reconsider' in a retail setting and accidentally say something that sounds like 'Please do the inventory'. To avoid this, remember that 'reconsideration' pairs with verbs like '하다' (to do), '요청하다' (to request), and '여지가 없다' (no room for), while 'inventory' pairs with '남다' (to remain), '떨어지다' (to run out), '정리하다' (to clear out), and '파악하다' (to check). Another common mistake is a register mismatch. Learners who discover '재고' might overuse it in casual conversations to sound advanced. Saying '우리 저녁 메뉴를 재고하자' (Let's reconsider our dinner menu) to a friend sounds incredibly awkward and robotic. In such cases, '다시 생각하자' or '다른 거 먹을까?' is the natural choice. '재고' must be reserved for formal, serious, or professional contexts. Grammatically, a frequent error is using incorrect particles. Since '재고하다' is a transitive verb, it requires the object particle '을/를' (e.g., 결정을 재고하다). Some learners mistakenly use '에 대해' (about) directly with the verb without making it a noun phrase first. While '결정에 대해 재고하다' is understandable, '결정을 재고하다' is more direct and natural. If you want to use '에 대해', it is better paired with '다시 생각하다' (결정에 대해 다시 생각하다). Finally, learners sometimes mispronounce the word by overly stressing the second syllable, making it sound like a question. The pronunciation should be smooth and flat, typical of standard Seoul Korean for Sino-Korean nouns. By being mindful of the homonym issue, respecting the formal register, and using the correct grammatical particles, learners can effectively integrate '재고' into their advanced vocabulary repertoire without making these common errors.

Mistake 1
Confusing it with 'Inventory' (在庫)
Mistake 2
Using it in casual, everyday conversations
Mistake 3
Using incorrect grammatical particles (e.g., missing 을/를)

Incorrect: 친구야, 우리 영화 보는 거 재고하자. (Too formal)

Correction: 친구야, 우리 영화 보는 거 다시 생각해 보자.

Incorrect: 식당에 김치 재고해 주세요. (Confusing reconsideration with inventory)

Correction: 식당에 김치 다시 생각해 주세요. (If you mean reconsider the kimchi choice)

Incorrect: 그 문제에 재고해 주세요. (Missing proper particle)

Correction: 그 문제를 재고해 주세요.

Incorrect: 나는 내 인생을 재고하고 있어. (Slightly unnatural for personal reflection)

Correction: 나는 내 인생을 되돌아보고 있어. (Reflecting on life)

Incorrect: 재고가 떨어졌으니 재고합시다. (Using both meanings confusingly)

Correction: 재고(inventory)가 떨어졌으니 계획을 재고(reconsider)합시다.

To fully grasp the nuance of '재고', it is highly beneficial to compare it with other similar words in the Korean language that relate to thinking, reviewing, and considering. The most direct, native Korean equivalent is '다시 생각하다' (to think again). This phrase is universally understood and can be used in almost any context, from the most casual chat to moderately formal situations. However, it lacks the authoritative and highly professional polish of '재고'. Another closely related Sino-Korean word is '검토' (檢討), which means 'review' or 'examination'. While '재고' implies changing a decision that has already been made or leaning towards a different outcome, '검토' simply means looking over something carefully to check for errors, feasibility, or details. For example, you '검토' a contract before signing it, but you '재고' signing the contract if you find a bad clause. '고려' (考慮) is another essential synonym, meaning 'consideration'. You use '고려하다' when taking various factors into account before making an initial decision. It is proactive, whereas '재고' is reactive (re-considering). '숙고' (熟考) means 'deep deliberation' or 'careful thought'. It emphasizes the depth and duration of the thinking process rather than the act of changing a mind. You might engage in '숙고' before making a major life choice. '반성' (反省) is sometimes confused with reconsideration, but it specifically means 'self-reflection' or 'repentance', usually regarding a mistake or bad behavior. You '반성' your own faults, but you '재고' a business strategy. Finally, '회고' (回顧) means 'looking back' or 'reminiscing' about the past, heavily used in literature and memoirs, and has nothing to do with changing decisions. By understanding these subtle distinctions, learners can choose the exact right word for their intended meaning. Use '고려' for initial factoring, '검토' for detailed review, '숙고' for deep pondering, '다시 생각하다' for casual rethinking, and reserve '재고' for the formal request or act of reversing or altering a previously established stance or decision.

다시 생각하다
To think again (Native Korean, casual/neutral)
검토 (檢討)
Review, examination (Checking details)
고려 (考慮)
Consideration (Taking factors into account initially)

서류를 꼼꼼히 검토해 주세요. (Review the document)

Please review the documents thoroughly.

여러 가지 조건을 고려하여 결정했습니다. (Considered conditions)

I made the decision considering various conditions.

오랜 숙고 끝에 이직을 결심했다. (Deep deliberation)

After long deliberation, I decided to change jobs.

자신의 잘못을 깊이 반성하고 있습니다. (Self-reflection/Repentance)

He is deeply reflecting on his mistakes.

그냥 다시 생각해 보는 게 어때? (Casual rethinking)

Why don't you just think about it again?

How Formal Is It?

Difficulty Rating

Grammar to Know

~기/음 에 따라 (As/According to) - Often used to explain why reconsideration is needed.

~아/어야 하다 (Must/Have to) - Used to express the necessity of reconsideration.

~지 말고 (Instead of doing) - Used to suggest reconsidering instead of outright rejecting.

Passive voice (되다) - 재고되다 (to be reconsidered).

Causative voice (게 하다) - 재고하게 하다 (to make someone reconsider).

Sign up free to read full explanation

Examples by Level

1

다시 생각해 보세요.

Please think again. (Instead of 재고)

Uses native verb 생각하다 + 아/어 보세요 (try doing).

2

저는 다시 생각해요.

I am thinking again.

Basic present tense 요 form.

3

그거 다시 생각할까요?

Shall we think about that again?

Uses ~(으)ㄹ까요 for suggesting/asking opinion.

4

다시 생각하고 싶어요.

I want to think again.

Uses ~고 싶다 (want to).

5

내일 다시 생각합시다.

Let's think again tomorrow.

Uses ~ㅂ시다 for formal suggestion.

6

다시 생각했어요.

I thought about it again.

Past tense 았/었어요.

7

다시 생각하지 마세요.

Please don't think about it again.

Negative command ~지 마세요.

8

우리는 다시 생각해야 해요.

We have to think again.

Obligation ~아/어야 하다.

1

이 문제는 다시 생각하는 게 좋겠어요.

It would be better to think about this problem again.

Uses ~는 게 좋겠다 (it is better to).

2

시간이 없으니까 나중에 다시 생각해 볼게요.

Since there is no time, I will think about it again later.

Uses ~(으)니까 (because) and ~아/어 보다 (try).

3

결정하기 전에 다시 한번 생각해 보세요.

Before deciding, please think about it once again.

Uses ~기 전에 (before doing).

4

다시 생각했지만 마음이 바뀌지 않았어요.

I thought about it again, but my mind didn't change.

Uses ~지만 (but).

5

그 계획을 다시 생각하기로 했어요.

We decided to think about that plan again.

Uses ~기로 하다 (decide to).

6

다시 생각하면 할수록 어려워요.

The more I think about it again, the harder it is.

Uses ~(으)면 ~(으)ㄹ수록 (the more... the more).

7

아마 다시 생각해야 할 거예요.

You will probably have to think again.

Uses ~(으)ㄹ 거예요 (probability/future).

8

다시 생각해서 내일 알려 줄게요.

I will think about it again and let you know tomorrow.

Uses ~아/어서 (sequential action).

1

회사에서 그 제안을 재고하고 있습니다.

The company is reconsidering the proposal.

Introduction of 재고하다 with ~고 있다 (present progressive).

2

사장님께 결정을 재고해 달라고 부탁했어요.

I asked the boss to reconsider the decision.

Uses ~아/어 달라고 부탁하다 (ask someone to do something).

3

이 가격은 재고할 필요가 있습니다.

This price needs to be reconsidered.

Uses ~(으)ㄹ 필요가 있다 (need to).

4

재고해 보았지만, 원래 계획대로 진행하겠습니다.

I reconsidered it, but we will proceed as originally planned.

Uses ~아/어 보았지만 (tried doing but).

5

고객님의 요청을 신중하게 재고하겠습니다.

We will carefully reconsider your request.

Uses adverb 신중하게 (carefully).

6

그 문제는 재고의 여지가 없다고 들었습니다.

I heard that there is no room for reconsideration on that issue.

Uses idiom 재고의 여지가 없다 and ~다고 듣다 (heard that).

7

상황이 바뀌어서 계획을 재고해야 합니다.

The situation has changed, so we must reconsider the plan.

Uses ~아/어서 (because) and ~아/어야 하다 (must).

8

재고를 요청하는 이메일을 보냈습니다.

I sent an email requesting reconsideration.

Uses noun form 재고 with 요청하다 (request).

1

정부는 부동산 정책을 전면 재고하기로 발표했습니다.

The government announced it decided to completely reconsider the real estate policy.

Uses 전면 (completely) and ~기로 발표하다 (announce decision to).

2

위원회의 결정은 재고의 여지가 전혀 없습니다.

The committee's decision has absolutely no room for reconsideration.

Emphasizes with 전혀 (absolutely not).

3

부디 저희의 입장을 긍정적으로 재고해 주시기 바랍니다.

Please, we hope you will positively reconsider our position.

Highly formal request using 부디 and ~기 바랍니다.

4

새로운 증거가 발견되어 사건을 재고할 수밖에 없었다.

New evidence was found, so there was no choice but to reconsider the case.

Uses ~(으)ㄹ 수밖에 없다 (have no choice but to).

5

그 방안은 현실성이 부족하여 재고 대상에서 제외되었습니다.

That plan lacked feasibility and was excluded from the targets for reconsideration.

Uses 재고 대상 (target of reconsideration).

6

상대방의 제안을 무조건 거절하지 말고 일단 재고해 봅시다.

Let's not unconditionally reject the other party's proposal, but reconsider it for now.

Uses ~지 말고 (instead of doing) and 일단 (for now).

7

예산 삭감 문제에 대해 경영진에 재고를 촉구했습니다.

We urged the management to reconsider the budget cut issue.

Uses ~에 대해 (about) and 촉구하다 (urge).

8

기존의 마케팅 전략을 원점에서 재고해야 할 시점입니다.

It is time to reconsider the existing marketing strategy from square one.

Uses 원점에서 (from square one) and ~(으)ㄹ 시점이다 (time to).

1

해당 법안의 위헌 소지가 제기됨에 따라, 국회는 입법을 재고해야 한다는 압박을 받고 있다.

As concerns about the unconstitutionality of the bill have been raised, the National Assembly is under pressure to reconsider the legislation.

Advanced structure ~기/음 에 따라 (as/according to).

2

단기적인 이익에 급급하여 장기적인 비전을 훼손하는 결정은 반드시 재고되어야 마땅하다.

A decision that undermines the long-term vision by focusing only on short-term profits must rightfully be reconsidered.

Uses passive 재고되다 and ~아/어야 마땅하다 (it is right/proper that).

3

노사 양측은 파업이라는 극단적인 선택을 피하기 위해 협상안을 심도 있게 재고 중이다.

Both labor and management are deeply reconsidering the negotiation proposal to avoid the extreme choice of a strike.

Uses 심도 있게 (in-depth).

4

역사적 사실에 대한 새로운 해석이 등장하면서, 학계는 기존의 정설을 재고하는 작업에 착수했다.

With the emergence of new interpretations of historical facts, academia has begun the work of reconsidering established theories.

Uses ~는 작업에 착수하다 (begin the work of).

5

피고인 측 변호인은 1심 판결의 부당성을 지적하며 항소심 재판부에 엄격한 재고를 요청하였다.

The defendant's lawyer pointed out the unfairness of the first trial's verdict and requested a strict reconsideration from the appellate court.

Highly formal legal vocabulary (항소심, 부당성).

6

환경 단체들은 정부의 원전 확대 정책이 시대착오적이라며 즉각적인 재고를 강력히 요구하고 나섰다.

Environmental groups strongly demanded immediate reconsideration, calling the government's policy to expand nuclear power plants anachronistic.

Uses ~라며 (saying that) and ~고 나서다 (step forward to do).

7

이러한 외교적 마찰은 양국 관계의 근본적인 틀을 재고하게 만드는 계기가 될 것이다.

Such diplomatic friction will serve as an opportunity to make us reconsider the fundamental framework of bilateral relations.

Uses ~게 만들다 (make someone do) and 계기가 되다 (serve as an opportunity).

8

경영 악화로 인해 당초 계획했던 대규모 투자는 전면 재고가 불가피한 실정입니다.

Due to the worsening management situation, a complete reconsideration of the originally planned large-scale investment is inevitable.

Uses ~가 불가피한 실정이다 (it is an inevitable situation).

1

본 위원회는 사안의 중대성을 감안하여, 기각되었던 안건을 이례적으로 재고하기로 합의를 도출하였습니다.

Considering the gravity of the matter, this committee has reached an agreement to exceptionally reconsider the dismissed agenda.

Executive/official register using 감안하여, 이례적으로, 합의를 도출하다.

2

인류세의 도래는 우리가 자연을 대상화해 온 근대적 이분법을 근원적으로 재고할 것을 촉구하는 철학적 명령이다.

The advent of the Anthropocene is a philosophical imperative urging us to fundamentally reconsider the modern dichotomy that has objectified nature.

Highly academic/philosophical vocabulary (인류세, 대상화, 이분법).

3

국제 사회의 제재에도 불구하고 도발을 감행하는 행태는, 기존의 대북 유화책에 대한 전면적 재고를 요한다.

The behavior of carrying out provocations despite international sanctions requires a comprehensive reconsideration of the existing appeasement policy towards North Korea.

Diplomatic/political register (도발을 감행하다, 유화책).

4

대법원은 하급심의 법리 오해를 지적하며, 판례의 변경 가능성까지 열어두고 본 사건을 파기환송하여 재고토록 하였다.

The Supreme Court pointed out the lower court's misunderstanding of legal principles and remanded the case to be reconsidered, even leaving open the possibility of changing precedents.

Advanced legal terminology (법리 오해, 파기환송, 재고토록 하다).

5

자본주의의 구조적 모순이 극에 달한 현시점에서, 복지 국가의 모델은 단순한 수정을 넘어 패러다임 자체의 재고를 필요로 한다.

At this point where the structural contradictions of capitalism have reached their peak, the welfare state model requires a reconsideration of the paradigm itself, beyond mere modification.

Sociological/economic analysis register.

6

해당 조약의 비준은 국가 주권의 일부를 양도하는 중차대한 문제이므로, 국민적 합의를 바탕으로 한 신중한 재고가 선행되어야 한다.

Since the ratification of the treaty is a crucial matter of ceding a part of national sovereignty, careful reconsideration based on national consensus must precede it.

Uses 중차대한 (crucial) and 선행되어야 한다 (must precede).

7

인공지능의 급격한 발전은 노동의 가치와 인간의 존재 의의에 대한 인문학적 재고를 강제하고 있다.

The rapid development of artificial intelligence is forcing a humanistic reconsideration of the value of labor and the significance of human existence.

Uses 인문학적 (humanistic) and 강제하다 (force).

8

과거의 성공 방정식에 매몰되어 혁신을 도외시한다면, 기업의 존립 기반 자체가 재고의 도마 위에 오를 것이다.

If a company neglects innovation by being buried in past success formulas, the very foundation of its existence will be put on the chopping block of reconsideration.

Uses metaphor 재고의 도마 위에 오르다 (put on the chopping block of reconsideration).

Synonyms

숙고 검토 반추 수정 고려

Antonyms

확정 강행

Common Collocations

재고하다
재고를 요청하다
재고의 여지
신중히 재고하다
전면 재고
재고를 촉구하다
긍정적으로 재고하다
재고 대상
원점에서 재고하다
재고가 필요하다

Common Phrases

재고의 여지가 없다
긍정적으로 재고해 주시기 바랍니다
전면 재고하기로 결정했다
재고를 거듭하다
재고할 가치가 있다
재고를 촉구하는 바입니다
재고 대상에서 제외되다
원점에서 재고하다
심도 있는 재고
즉각적인 재고

Often Confused With

재고 vs 재고 (在庫) - Inventory. (Homonym)

재고 vs 검토 (檢討) - Review. ( 검토 is checking for errors; 재고 is rethinking a decision.)

재고 vs 고려 (考慮) - Consideration. ( 고려 is the initial thought process; 재고 is the secondary thought process.)

Idioms & Expressions

"재고의 도마 위에 오르다"
"재고의 여지를 남기다"
"재고를 거듭하다"
"원점에서 재고하다"
"백지상태에서 재고하다"
"재고를 불허하다"
"재고를 촉구하다"
"재고를 당부하다"
"재고를 거부하다"
"재고를 약속하다"

Easily Confused

재고 vs

재고 vs

재고 vs

재고 vs

재고 vs

Sentence Patterns

Sign up free to see all examples

How to Use It

nuance

Implies a formal, structured review process rather than just a fleeting second thought.

homonyms

재고 (在庫) - Inventory/Stock. This is the most critical usage note. Context is everything.

colloquial alternatives

다시 생각하다, 맘을 바꾸다.

Common Mistakes
  • Using '재고' to mean 'inventory' in a sentence structured for 'reconsideration'.
  • Saying '재고해' to a friend instead of '다시 생각해'.
  • Using '에 대해' instead of '을/를' directly before the verb '재고하다'.
  • Confusing '재고' (reconsideration) with '제고' (enhancement/boosting).
  • Using '재고하다' when '검토하다' (review) is the more appropriate action for checking a document.

Tips

Context is King

Always double-check if the situation is formal enough for '재고'. If you are wearing sweatpants, you probably shouldn't be using this word.

Transitive Verb

Remember to use '을/를' before '재고하다'. It needs an object. What are you reconsidering?

Homonym Alert

'재고' (Inventory) is a very common word in retail. Don't ask a shop clerk to 'reconsider' their shoes when you mean to ask if they have 'inventory'.

Pair with '긍정적으로'

In business emails, always ask them to reconsider 'positively' (긍정적으로). It is the standard polite formula.

Learn '재고의 여지'

Memorize the phrase '재고의 여지가 없다' (no room for reconsideration). It makes you sound incredibly fluent and authoritative.

재고 vs 검토

You '검토' (review) a document, but you '재고' (reconsider) a decision. Keep these distinct in your mind.

Flat Tone

Keep your intonation flat. Standard Korean doesn't have heavy pitch accents on Sino-Korean nouns like this.

Formal Emails

Use '재고를 요청드립니다' as a formal noun phrase rather than the direct verb '재고해 주세요' for maximum politeness in writing.

News Vocabulary

Watch Korean political news. You will hear '전면 재고' (complete reconsideration) almost every time a policy fails.

Hanja Power

Remember the '재' (再) means 'again'. You will see it in words like 재활용 (recycle) and 재시작 (restart).

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Imagine a judge saying 'JAE (재) GO (고) back and think again!' JAE-GO means to go back and reconsider.

Word Origin

Sino-Korean

Cultural Context

Formal/Professional

Standard Korean, universally understood across all regions.

Highly formal. Used primarily in 하십시오체 (formal polite) or written forms.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Conversation Starters

"최근에 정부의 정책 중 재고되어야 한다고 생각하는 것이 있나요?"

"회사에서 내린 결정에 대해 재고를 요청해 본 경험이 있습니까?"

"어떤 상황에서 '재고의 여지가 없다'고 단호하게 말할 수 있을까요?"

"과거의 결정을 재고해서 더 좋은 결과를 얻은 적이 있나요?"

"사형 제도에 대한 재고가 필요하다고 생각하십니까?"

Journal Prompts

Write about a time you had to formally ask someone to reconsider a decision.

Discuss a historical event where a leader's failure to reconsider led to disaster.

Argue for or against the reconsideration of a specific school or workplace rule.

Explain the difference between '재고' (reconsideration) and '재고' (inventory) with examples.

Describe a personal belief you recently reconsidered and why.

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

No, it is highly unnatural to use '재고' with friends. It is a formal Sino-Korean word reserved for professional, academic, or official contexts. With friends, you should use '다시 생각하다' (to think again). Using '재고' in casual conversation sounds overly dramatic or robotic.

You must look at the context and the verbs used with the word. If it is paired with verbs like '하다' (to do), '요청하다' (to request), or '여지가 없다' (no room for), it means reconsideration. If it is paired with '남다' (to remain), '떨어지다' (to run out), or '파악하다' (to check), it means inventory. Also, the setting (an office vs. a warehouse) is a major clue.

'재고하다' is a transitive verb. This means it requires a direct object to act upon. You must use the object particles '을' or '를' with the noun you are reconsidering. For example, '결정을 재고하다' (to reconsider the decision).

The most polite and standard way in a formal setting, such as a business email, is '긍정적으로 재고해 주시기 바랍니다' (Please positively reconsider it) or '다시 한번 재고를 부탁드립니다' (I ask for your reconsideration once again). This softens the request and shows respect.

This is a very common idiom that translates literally to 'there is no room for reconsideration'. It is used to express that a decision is final, absolute, and will not be changed under any circumstances. It is a strong, definitive statement.

Generally, no. '재고' is used for formal decisions, policies, contracts, or rulings. For personal life choices, like reconsidering moving to a new city or breaking up with someone, it is more natural to use '다시 생각하다' or '숙고하다' (to deliberate deeply).

'검토' (review) means to look over something carefully to check for details, errors, or feasibility, usually before a final decision is made (e.g., reviewing a contract). '재고' (reconsideration) means to rethink a decision that has already been made, usually with the intent or possibility of changing it.

It is pronounced exactly as it is written: [재고] (jae-go). Both syllables should be relatively short and flat. Do not put a heavy stress on the second syllable, or it might sound unnatural.

The Hanja roots are 再 (재), which means 'again' or 're-', and 考 (고), which means 'to think', 'to consider', or 'to examine'. Together, they literally mean 'to think again'.

Yes, the passive form is '재고되다' (to be reconsidered). It is often used when the focus is on the policy or decision rather than the person making it. For example, '그 법안은 재고되어야 한다' (That bill must be reconsidered).

Sign up free for tips & notes

Test Yourself 180 questions

/ 180 correct

Perfect score!

Sign up free to practice

Related Content

Was this helpful?

Comments (0)

Login to Comment
No comments yet. Be the first to share your thoughts!