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B2 adverb 11 min read

마침

machim

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips 마침 in 30 Seconds

Explanation 마침 in your Level:

At the A1 level, you can think of '마침' as a special word for 'just right' or 'just then.' It is like when you are hungry and someone gives you a cookie. You can say '마침!' to show you are happy about the timing. You don't need to worry about complex grammar yet. Just remember that it goes at the beginning of the sentence when something lucky happens with timing. For example, if you are looking for a pencil and your friend gives you one, you can say '마침 잘 됐다!' which means 'That's perfect timing!' It's a very friendly word that makes people feel like they did something good for you. Even as a beginner, using this word will make you sound very polite and natural in Korean. Try to use it when you meet a friend unexpectedly or when you find something you were looking for right away. It's all about the 'lucky timing' in your daily life.

At the A2 level, you should start using '마침' to connect two ideas. It's often used when one thing is happening and then something else happens at the same time to help you. For example: 'I was going to the store, and 마침 I met my friend.' In Korean, this looks like '가게에 가는데 마침 친구를 만났어요.' Notice how '마침' comes after the first part to show that meeting the friend was a lucky coincidence. You should also learn the phrase '마침 잘 됐다,' which is used very often when something turns out well. If someone invites you to a party and you are free that day, you say '마침 잘 됐네요! 저 그날 시간 있어요.' This shows you are happy that the timing worked out. It's a great way to build better conversations and show that you are paying attention to the situation around you.

For B1 learners, '마침' becomes a tool for more nuanced communication. You should begin pairing it with the '-던 참이다' construction, which means 'was just about to.' This is a very common native pattern. For instance, '마침 전화하려던 참이었어요' means 'I was just about to call you (when you called me).' This shows a higher level of fluency because it describes your intention and the coincidence simultaneously. You should also be able to distinguish '마침' from '방금' (just now) and '우연히' (by chance). Remember that '마침' is about the *opportuneness* of the timing. You can also use it to soften requests. Instead of saying 'Do you have time?', saying '마침 시간이 되시면...' makes it sound like you're asking if they *happen* to have time, which is much more polite and less pressuring in a Korean social context.

At the B2 level, you are expected to use '마침' with precision in both speech and writing. You should understand its role as a discourse marker that frames the narrative. In a story or a report, '마침' can be used to introduce a turning point. You should also be comfortable with its more formal counterpart, '때마침,' and know when to use it (e.g., in essays or formal speeches). At this level, you should also be aware of the opposite word, '하필,' and use them correctly to contrast lucky and unlucky coincidences. You might use '마침' to describe complex situations, such as '마침 예산이 남아서 그 프로젝트를 진행할 수 있었습니다' (Fortunately, since there happened to be some budget left, we were able to proceed with the project). This demonstrates your ability to explain cause-and-effect relationships through the lens of timing and opportunity.

At the C1 level, you should appreciate the stylistic and cultural nuances of '마침.' It is not just an adverb; it's a reflection of the Korean worldview regarding harmony and destiny. You can use '마침' to create specific atmospheres in creative writing or to provide sophisticated commentary in discussions. For example, you might analyze how '마침' is used in literature to signify 'Inyeon' (fate). You should also be able to use the word in abstract contexts, such as '마침 시대적 요구와 맞물려 그 기술이 빛을 보게 되었다' (Opportunely, in tandem with the demands of the times, that technology came to light). Your usage should be seamless, using it to navigate complex social interactions where acknowledging the 'perfection' of a moment can build rapport and facilitate smoother negotiations or conflict resolutions.

For C2 learners, '마침' is handled with the mastery of a native speaker, including its use in idiomatic, archaic, or highly specialized contexts. You understand the subtle difference between '마침' and its related forms like '마침맞다' (to be just right) and can use them to describe everything from the fit of a garment to the alignment of political movements. You can use '마침' to provide meta-commentary on a conversation, perhaps noting the irony of a perfectly-timed but unexpected event. Your understanding extends to the historical development of the word and its relationship to the verb '맞다' (to fit/be correct). In high-level debates or academic writing, you use '마침' to highlight serendipitous data points or historical coincidences that shaped outcomes. At this stage, the word is an integrated part of your linguistic toolkit, used effortlessly to add flavor, politeness, and precision to your most complex thoughts.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

마침 in 30 Seconds

Used for 'perfect timing' or 'lucky coincidences' in daily Korean conversation.
Commonly paired with '-던 참이다' (was just about to) or '잘 됐다' (worked out well).
Functions as a polite social lubricant to make interactions feel more organic and welcome.
Must be distinguished from '방금' (just now), '마침내' (finally), and '하필' (unlucky timing).

The Korean adverb 마침 (machim) is a versatile and essential term that translates most closely to 'just in time,' 'opportunely,' or 'as it happens.' It is used to describe a situation where two events coincide in a way that feels particularly lucky, convenient, or perfectly timed. Unlike the simple English 'just,' which can refer to time (just now) or quantity (just one), 마침 specifically targets the serendipity of an occurrence. It suggests that the stars have aligned, even in small, everyday ways. For instance, if you are thinking about someone and they suddenly call you, that is a classic 마침 moment. It bridges the gap between a thought or a need and the external reality that fulfills it. In Korean culture, where social harmony and 'nunchi' (situational awareness) are highly valued, using 마침 can also serve as a polite way to welcome someone or to explain why a certain action is being taken without making it seem forced or burdensome.

Temporal Precision: It marks the exact point where a need meets its solution, often used at the beginning of a sentence to set the stage for a fortunate coincidence.

Social Lubricant: By using this word, speakers can make others feel welcome, suggesting their arrival or action was not an interruption but a timely benefit.

Semantic Range: While often positive, it can also describe neutral coincidences that simply facilitate a subsequent action, such as having the right tool for a job at the exact moment it breaks.

배가 고팠는데 마침 피자가 배달 왔어요. (I was hungry, and just then the pizza was delivered.)

마침 잘 됐네요. 저도 그 이야기를 하려던 참이었어요. (That worked out perfectly. I was just about to say the same thing.)

비가 오기 시작했는데 마침 가방에 우산이 있었어요. (It started to rain, and fortunately, I happened to have an umbrella in my bag.)

마침 그때 정전이 되었어요. (Just at that moment, the power went out.)

보고 싶었는데 마침 전화를 주셨군요. (I missed you, and opportunely, you called me.)

Furthermore, 마침 can be used to describe a state that is 'just right' in terms of preparation or quantity, though this is less common than its temporal usage. In literature and drama, this word is a frequent plot device used to introduce a character or an event that resolves a conflict or changes the direction of the story. It emphasizes the feeling of 'Inyeon' (인연), the Korean concept of fate or predestined connection. By saying 마침, a speaker acknowledges that the current moment isn't just a random slice of time, but a meaningful intersection of events. This adds a layer of warmth and significance to interpersonal interactions, making the listener feel that their presence or action is valued and perfectly timed for the situation at hand.

Using 마침 effectively requires understanding its placement and the grammatical structures it often accompanies. Most commonly, it appears at the very beginning of a sentence or immediately after the subject to emphasize the timing. Because it highlights a coincidence, it is frequently paired with verbs in the past tense or with the '-던 참이다' (was just about to) construction. For example, if you are walking into a store and meet a friend you needed to talk to, you would say, '마침 잘 만났네요!' (What a coincidence to meet you here!). The word acts as an adverbial modifier for the entire situation described in the clause. It is also often used with the connective '-는데' to set a background context before the 'lucky' event is mentioned. This creates a narrative flow: 'I was doing X, and 마침 Y happened.'

With -던 참이다: This is perhaps the most natural pairing. It emphasizes that an action was already in your mind or just beginning when something else occurred to facilitate it.

With 잘 됐다: When something turns out well due to timing, '마침 잘 됐다' (That worked out perfectly) is a standard idiomatic expression used in both formal and informal settings.

Sentence Positioning: While usually at the start, it can be tucked into the sentence for a softer nuance: '저도 마침 갈 생각이었어요' (I also happened to be thinking of going).

A: 커피 한 잔 하실래요? B: 와, 마침 목이 말랐는데 고마워요. (A: Would you like a cup of coffee? B: Wow, I just happened to be thirsty, thank you.)

집에 가려는데 마침 버스가 왔어요. (I was about to go home, and just then the bus arrived.)

돈이 부족했는데 마침 주머니에서 오천 원이 나왔어요. (I was short on money, and coincidentally, I found five thousand won in my pocket.)

In more formal writing or news reporting, 마침 might be replaced by the more formal 때마침, which carries the same meaning but with a slightly more literary tone. However, in daily conversation, 마침 is ubiquitous. It’s important to note that it isn't used for planned events. You wouldn't say 마침 for a meeting that was scheduled weeks ago, unless something unexpected happened during that meeting that was perfectly timed. The essence of the word is the 'unexpected' nature of the timing. It captures the surprise and relief of a solution appearing exactly when the problem is most acute. Mastery of this word allows a learner to sound much more natural and empathetic in Korean, as it shows an appreciation for the flow of time and social interactions.

In South Korea, 마침 is a staple of daily life, appearing in everything from casual street conversations to high-stakes business negotiations and dramatic television scripts. In a typical Korean household, you might hear a mother say to her child, '마침 간식 만들었는데 먹어라' (I just happened to make some snacks, so come eat), using the word to make the offer sound effortless and welcoming. In the workplace, a colleague might approach you saying, '마침 김 대리님 찾고 있었는데 여기 계셨네요' (I was just looking for you, Manager Kim, and here you are). This usage helps to justify the approach and makes the interaction feel more organic and less like an interruption of someone's work. It is particularly common in the service industry as well; a shopkeeper might say, '마침 그 사이즈가 하나 남았네요' (We just happen to have one left in that size), creating a sense of urgency and good fortune for the customer.

K-Dramas and Movies: Screenwriters love '마침' because it facilitates 'Deus Ex Machina' moments. A hero arrives '마침' to save the day, or a secret is '마침' overheard by the wrong person.

Variety Shows: In shows like 'Running Man' or 'I Live Alone,' cast members use '마침' to comment on the funny timing of events, often heightening the comedic effect of coincidences.

Everyday Hospitality: When visiting someone's home, the host will almost always use '마침' to describe the tea or food they are serving, even if they prepared it specifically for you, to minimize your feeling of indebtedness.

드라마 대사: "마침 잘 오셨어요. 드릴 말씀이 있었거든요." (Drama line: "You've come at just the right time. I had something to tell you.")

예능 프로그램: "마침 비가 그쳐서 촬영을 계속할 수 있겠네요!" (Variety show: "The rain just happened to stop, so we can continue filming!")

In literature, 마침 is used to describe the atmosphere or the setting in a way that feels destined. For example, a novelist might write, 'The moon 마침 emerged from behind the clouds to reveal the hidden path.' This usage is slightly more poetic and emphasizes the role of nature or fate in the human journey. In news reports, you might see it used in human-interest stories: 'A doctor 마침 was passing by and saved the collapsed citizen.' Here, it underscores the miraculous nature of the timing. Whether in the mundane or the extraordinary, 마침 is the linguistic key that Koreans use to highlight the beauty of the 'right place at the right time.' For a learner, hearing this word should signal that a meaningful coincidence is being shared, inviting you to participate in that moment of shared fortune.

One of the most frequent mistakes English speakers make when using 마침 is confusing it with other 'just' words like '방금' (just now/a moment ago) or '딱' (exactly). While '방금' refers to a very recent point in time, 마침 refers to the suitability of that time. For example, you cannot use 마침 to say 'I just ate' unless the fact that you ate is particularly relevant to what is happening right now (like someone offering you food). Another common error is using 마침 in negative contexts where '하필' (ha-pil) would be much more appropriate. 마침 usually implies a 'lucky' or 'neutral' coincidence, whereas '하필' implies an 'unlucky' or 'annoying' one. If it rains on your wedding day, you wouldn't say '마침 비가 오네요' unless you were a farmer desperately needing rain for your crops; otherwise, you would say '하필이면 오늘 비가 오네요' (Of all days, it has to rain today).

Confusion with '마침내': Despite the similar spelling, '마침내' (machim-nae) means 'finally' or 'at last' after a long wait or effort. It does not mean 'just in time.'

Using with Planned Events: Learners often use it for appointments. If you meet someone at 2 PM as scheduled, you don't say '마침 만났네요.' It must be an unplanned, opportune meeting.

Overusing as a Filler: While common, using '마침' in every sentence can make your speech sound overly dramatic. Use it only when there is a genuine sense of opportune timing.

Incorrect: 마침 숙제를 끝냈어요. (Meaning 'I just finished my homework' as a time marker - use '방금' instead.)

Incorrect: 마침 지갑을 잃어버렸어요. (Unless losing it was somehow lucky - use '하필' or just the verb.)

Another nuance is the difference between 마침 and 우연히 (by chance). 우연히 focuses on the lack of intention ('I met him by chance'), whereas 마침 focuses on the timing of that chance meeting and how it fits the current situation ('I met him just as I needed his help'). If you simply saw a celebrity on the street, 우연히 is better. If you saw that celebrity just as you were talking about them, 마침 is perfect. Understanding these subtle boundaries will prevent you from sounding like a textbook and help you communicate with the precision of a native speaker. Always ask yourself: 'Is this timing lucky or particularly useful?' If yes, 마침 is your best friend.

To truly master 마침, it helps to look at its synonyms and see where their boundaries lie. The most direct alternative is 때마침. This is essentially 마침 with the word for 'time' (때) attached to the front. It is slightly more formal and often used in writing to emphasize the temporal aspect. Another related word is 마침맞게, which is an adverbial form meaning 'suitably' or 'appropriately.' For example, 'The clothes fit 마침맞게 (perfectly).' While 마침 is about the coincidence of an event, 마침맞게 is about the fit or suitability of an object or a state. Then there are words like 마침내, which as mentioned before, should be avoided as a synonym for 'just in time' because it implies the end of a long process.

마침 vs 때마침: '마침' is the go-to for conversation. '때마침' feels a bit more descriptive and is common in novels or news reports.

마침 vs 우연히: '우연히' means 'by accident/chance' (no planning). '마침' means 'at the perfect moment' (timing focus).

마침 vs 딱: '딱' means 'exactly' or 'precisely.' You can say '딱 마침' together to mean 'exactly at that perfect moment.'

비가 오는데 때마침 택시가 나타났다. (It was raining, and just at that moment, a taxi appeared. - Literary/Formal)

길에서 우연히 초등학교 친구를 만났어요. (I met an elementary school friend by chance on the street. - Focus on the accident, not the timing.)

In some cases, you might use 안 그래도 (even without that/I was already...) as a functional alternative. For example, if someone asks if you want to eat, you could say '안 그래도 배고팠어요' (I was already hungry anyway). This overlaps with 마침, but 마침 emphasizes the external event (the offer) while 안 그래도 emphasizes your internal state. Choosing between these words depends on what you want to highlight. If you want to celebrate the coincidence, go with 마침. If you want to say you were already on the same page, 안 그래도 works well. By diversifying your vocabulary with these alternatives, you can express the nuances of timing and fate with much greater clarity and cultural resonance.

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

While '마침' looks like it comes from '마치다' (to finish), its functional soul is closer to '맞다' (to fit). It's like a linguistic puzzle piece that finally clicks into place.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /ma.tɕʰim/

US /mɑ.tʃɪm/

The stress is slightly more on the first syllable 'ma', but Korean is generally a syllable-timed language.

Rhymes With

아침 (achim - morning) 마침 (machim - just in time) 가르침 (gareuchim - teaching) 침 (chim - needle/saliva) 기침 (gichim - cough) 받침 (batchim - support/final consonant) 넘침 (neomchim - overflowing) 그침 (geuchim - stopping)

Common Errors

Pronouncing 'chim' like 'team' (missing the 'ch' sound).
Over-aspirating the 'm' at the end.
Lengthening the 'a' too much so it sounds like 'ma-ah-chim'.
Confusing the 'ch' with a soft 'j' sound.
Pronouncing it too slowly; it's usually a quick, snappy adverb.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 2/5

Easy to recognize in text as it often starts a sentence or clause.

Writing 4/5

Requires understanding which grammar patterns (like -던 참이다) it pairs with naturally.

Speaking 3/5

Timing the word correctly in conversation is key to sounding natural.

Listening 2/5

Very common and usually pronounced clearly.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

맞다 (to fit/be correct) 때 (time) 잘 (well) 오다 (to come) 만나다 (to meet)

Learn Next

마침내 (finally) 하필 (unlucky timing) 공교롭게 (coincidentally) 우연히 (by chance) 안 그래도 (anyway/already)

Advanced

시의적절 (timeliness) 부합하다 (to coincide/match) 적기 (the right time) 천운 (heavenly luck) 기연 (a strange/lucky connection)

Grammar to Know

V-(으)려던 참이다

마침 밥을 먹으려던 참이었어요.

V-(으)려는데

나가려는데 마침 비가 오네요.

N-이라(서)

마침 주말이라 사람이 많아요.

V-길래

마침 세일하길래 샀어요.

A/V-ㄴ/은/는데

심심했는데 마침 잘 됐다.

Examples by Level

마침 잘 왔어요.

You came at just the right time.

마침 (adverb) + 잘 (well) + 왔어요 (came).

마침 배가 고파요.

I happen to be hungry right now.

마침 is used here to show the current feeling fits the situation.

마침 친구를 만났어요.

I just happened to meet a friend.

Past tense '만났어요' shows the meeting already happened opportunely.

마침 돈이 있어요.

I happen to have money.

Used to show having money is useful at this exact moment.

마침 비가 그쳤어요.

The rain just happened to stop.

Focuses on the lucky timing of the rain stopping.

마침 버스가 왔어요.

The bus just happened to arrive.

Describes a convenient coincidence.

마침 여기 있었네요.

You happened to be here.

Used when finding someone unexpectedly but opportunely.

마침 세일 중이에요.

It happens to be on sale.

Connects the sale to the person's interest.

마침 잘 됐네요. 저도 가고 싶었어요.

That worked out great. I wanted to go too.

마침 잘 됐다 is a common set phrase for 'perfect timing'.

가방에 마침 우산이 있었어요.

I happened to have an umbrella in my bag.

Placed after the subject '가방에' for emphasis.

마침 그때 전화가 왔어요.

Just then, the phone rang.

마침 그때 is 'just at that time'.

배가 고팠는데 마침 피자가 왔어요.

I was hungry, and just then the pizza arrived.

Uses -는데 to provide background for the '마침' event.

마침 제가 찾던 책이에요.

This is just the book I was looking for.

Connects the object to a previous search/need.

심심했는데 마침 친구가 전화했어요.

I was bored, and just then a friend called.

Similar to the pizza example, uses -는데 for context.

마침 시간이 있어서 도와줄 수 있어요.

I happen to have time, so I can help you.

Uses '마침' to make the offer of help sound easy.

마침 주머니에 사탕이 하나 있었어요.

I happened to have one candy in my pocket.

Emphasizes the lucky find of a small item.

마침 전화하려던 참이었어요.

I was just about to call you.

마침 + V-(으)려던 참이다 (was just about to do V).

마침 잘 오셨습니다. 회의를 시작하려던 참이었거든요.

You've come at the perfect time. We were just about to start the meeting.

Formal ending '-습니다' combined with '-던 참이다'.

마침 그 근처에 갈 일이 있어서 들를게요.

I happen to have some business near there, so I'll stop by.

Using '마침' to make a visit sound convenient rather than a chore.

돈이 필요했는데 마침 월급이 들어왔어요.

I needed money, and opportunely, my salary was deposited.

Connects a financial need with a timely solution.

마침 오늘이 제 생일이에요.

As it happens, today is my birthday.

Used to share a coincidence during a conversation.

마침 어제 그 영화를 봤는데 정말 재미있더라고요.

I happened to see that movie yesterday, and it was really fun.

Uses '마침' to join a conversation about a specific topic.

마침 자리가 하나 비어 있어서 앉을 수 있었어요.

There happened to be one empty seat, so I could sit down.

Describes a lucky break in a crowded situation.

마침 비가 그치길래 산책을 나갔어요.

The rain happened to stop, so I went out for a walk.

'-길래' shows the reason based on the '마침' event.

마침 점심시간이라 식당들이 붐비네요.

Since it happens to be lunchtime, the restaurants are crowded.

마침 + N-이라 (since it is N) shows situational timing.

마침내 성공했지만, 마침 그때 몸이 안 좋아졌어요.

I finally succeeded, but just then my health declined.

Contrasts '마침내' (finally) with '마침' (just then).

마침 제가 그 분야의 전문가를 알고 있습니다.

As it happens, I know an expert in that field.

Used in a formal context to offer a timely solution.

때마침 기차가 도착해서 지각을 면할 수 있었어요.

The train arrived just in time, so I was able to avoid being late.

Uses '때마침' for a more formal or descriptive tone.

마침 그 소식을 듣고 깜짝 놀랐습니다.

I happened to hear that news and was very surprised.

Focuses on the timing of receiving information.

마침 우리 팀에 빈자리가 생겨서 당신을 추천하고 싶어요.

A vacancy just happened to open up in our team, so I want to recommend you.

Uses '마침' to frame a recommendation as an opportune moment.

마침 날씨가 좋아서 야외 행사를 진행하기로 했습니다.

Since the weather happened to be good, we decided to proceed with the outdoor event.

Explains a decision based on fortunate timing.

마침 주머니에 잔돈이 있어서 버스를 탈 수 있었어요.

I happened to have some change in my pocket, so I could take the bus.

Emphasizes the utility of a small, timely resource.

그의 제안은 마침 회사가 변화를 모색하던 시점과 맞아떨어졌다.

His proposal opportunely coincided with the point when the company was seeking change.

Advanced usage showing alignment of abstract concepts.

마침 불어온 바람 덕분에 산불 진화가 수월해졌다.

Thanks to the wind that happened to blow, extinguishing the forest fire became easier.

Describes natural phenomena aiding a human effort.

마침 그 자리에 있었던 목격자의 진술이 결정적인 증거가 되었다.

The statement of the witness who happened to be there became decisive evidence.

Focuses on the legal significance of a coincidental presence.

새로운 정책은 마침 경제 위기가 닥친 상황에서 큰 힘이 되었다.

The new policy was a great help as it happened to be introduced during an economic crisis.

Discusses policy impact in the context of timing.

마침 떨어지는 낙엽을 보며 인생의 덧없음을 느꼈다.

Looking at the falling leaves that happened to drop, I felt the transience of life.

Literary usage connecting a moment in nature to an internal state.

마침 그가 던진 농담이 무거운 분위기를 반전시켰다.

The joke he happened to tell shifted the heavy atmosphere.

Describes a social shift caused by timely action.

마침내 도달한 정상에서 마침 일출을 볼 수 있었다.

At the summit I finally reached, I happened to be able to see the sunrise.

Expertly combines '마침내' (end of effort) with '마침' (lucky timing).

마침 그 기술의 특허가 만료되어 누구나 사용할 수 있게 되었다.

As it happens, the patent for that technology expired, making it available for everyone.

Formal usage in a legal or technical context.

작가의 의도는 마침 시대적 담론과 맞물려 거대한 사회적 반향을 일으켰다.

The author's intention opportunely meshed with the discourse of the times, causing a huge social resonance.

High-level analysis of cultural and historical alignment.

마침 쏟아지는 폭포수 아래서 그는 깨달음을 얻었다고 회고했다.

He reminisced that he gained enlightenment under the waterfall that happened to be cascading down.

Philosophical usage in a narrative/memoir context.

그의 실수는 마침 상대방의 허점을 찌르는 신의 한 수가 되었다.

His mistake opportunely became a 'move of God' that struck the opponent's weak point.

Paradoxical usage where a negative act has a positive, timely result.

마침 불어닥친 혁명의 불길은 낡은 체제를 순식간에 집어삼켰다.

The flames of revolution that happened to break out swallowed the old regime in an instant.

Metaphorical usage in historical or political commentary.

마침 우연의 일치가 겹쳐지며 사건은 예상치 못한 방향으로 흘러갔다.

As coincidences happened to overlap, the incident flowed in an unexpected direction.

Describes the complexity of multiple coincidences.

마침 그가 남긴 유작이 현대 미술의 새로운 지평을 열었다는 평가를 받는다.

It is evaluated that his posthumous work, which happened to be left behind, opened a new horizon for modern art.

Formal art criticism using '마침' for historical significance.

마침 적절한 시기에 투입된 자본이 고사 위기의 기업을 살려냈다.

The capital injected at just the right time saved the company from the brink of collapse.

Business context describing critical timing.

마침 그 교수의 강연은 과학계의 해묵은 논쟁에 종지부를 찍었다.

The professor's lecture opportunely put an end to the long-standing debate in the scientific community.

Describes an event that resolves a long-term issue through timing.

Common Collocations

마침 잘 됐다

마침 그때

마침 잘 오셨어요

마침 -던 참이다

마침 -길래

딱 마침

마침 일치하다

마침 떨어지다

마침 비가 오다

마침 자리가 나다

Common Phrases

마침 잘 만났네

— What a coincidence to meet you here. Used when you see someone you needed to talk to.

어, 마침 잘 만났네! 너한테 물어볼 게 있었어.

마침 다행이다

— It's lucky that it happened this way. Expresses relief at a timely event.

우산이 있었어? 마침 다행이다.

마침 생각나다

— To happen to remember something just now. Used to introduce a new topic.

마침 생각난 건데, 내일 시간 돼?

마침 필요하다

— To happen to need something that just appeared. Expresses gratitude.

이거 마침 필요했는데 고마워요.

마침내

— Note: This is a separate word meaning 'finally.' Do not confuse with '마침'.

마침내 꿈을 이루었다.

마침맞은 때

— The opportune moment. A slightly more formal way to describe a perfect time.

마침맞은 때에 도움을 주셨습니다.

마침 가는 길에

— As I happen to be on my way. Used to offer a ride or a favor.

마침 가는 길에 제가 데려다 드릴게요.

마침 비어 있다

— To happen to be empty/available. Used for seats, rooms, or schedules.

마침 회의실이 비어 있네요.

마침 준비되다

— To happen to be ready. Often used by hosts or service staff.

식사가 마침 준비되었습니다.

마침 알고 있다

— To happen to know. Used to offer information in a conversation.

제가 마침 그 맛집을 알고 있어요.

Often Confused With

마침 vs 마침내

Means 'finally' (after effort). '마침' is 'just in time' (by chance).

마침 vs 방금

Means 'a moment ago' (time only). '마침' implies the timing was 'right' or 'opportune'.

마침 vs 딱

Means 'exactly.' While they can be used together, '딱' focuses on precision while '마침' focuses on the event.

Idioms & Expressions

"마침 잘 됐다"

— That worked out perfectly. Used in almost any positive coincidental situation.

마침 잘 됐네요. 저도 그 영화 보고 싶었어요.

Neutral

"가는 날이 장날"

— Literally 'the day you go is market day.' Used when you go somewhere and something unexpected happens (can be good or bad, but often used like '마침').

친구 보러 갔는데 마침 생일이었어. 가는 날이 장날이라더니!

Idiomatic/Proverb

"마침맞게 떨어지다"

— To fit perfectly or to run out at the exact right time.

퍼즐 조각이 마침맞게 떨어졌다.

Neutral

"마침 톱니바퀴가 맞물리듯"

— Like gears meshing perfectly. Used for situations where everything aligns perfectly.

모든 계획이 마침 톱니바퀴가 맞물리듯 진행되었다.

Literary

"마침 손에 잡히다"

— To happen to have something within reach or to be able to handle something easily.

마침 손에 잡히는 대로 도구를 챙겼다.

Neutral

"마침 눈에 띄다"

— To happen to catch one's eye. Used for finding something by chance.

서점에 갔다가 마침 눈에 띄는 책을 샀어요.

Neutral

"마침 발걸음을 돌리다"

— To happen to turn one's steps back just as something occurred.

마침 발걸음을 돌리는데 그를 만났다.

Literary

"마침 무릎을 치다"

— To slap one's knee in a 'eureka' moment that happens opportunely.

해결책이 생각나 마침 무릎을 쳤다.

Metaphorical

"마침 입맛이 돌다"

— To happen to get an appetite just as food is served.

마침 입맛이 도는데 고기 냄새가 났다.

Casual

"마침 운이 따르다"

— To happen to be followed by luck.

이번 시험에는 마침 운이 따랐던 것 같아요.

Neutral

Easily Confused

마침 vs 하필

Both describe coincidences.

'마침' is for positive or neutral timing. '하필' is specifically for unlucky or annoying timing.

마침 비가 그쳤어요 (Good) vs 하필 비가 오네요 (Bad).

마침 vs 우연히

Both involve chance.

'우연히' emphasizes the lack of intention. '마침' emphasizes that the timing was perfect for the situation.

우연히 만났어요 (By chance) vs 마침 만났어요 (Just in time).

마침 vs 갑자기

Both can describe unexpected events.

'갑자기' means 'suddenly' (speed/surprise). '마침' means 'opportunely' (timing/fit).

갑자기 비가 왔어요 (Sudden) vs 마침 우산이 있었어요 (Opportune).

마침 vs 때맞춰

Very similar meaning.

'때맞춰' is more of an adverbial phrase 'in time for,' while '마침' is a standalone adverb 'just in time.'

제때 맞춰 오셨네요 (You arrived on time).

마침 vs 마침맞다

Same root.

'마침맞다' is an adjective meaning 'to be just right/fitting.' '마침' is an adverb.

크기가 마침맞아요 (The size is just right).

Sentence Patterns

마침 잘 [Verb]았/었어요.

마침 잘 왔어요.

[Sentence 1] + 는데 마침 [Sentence 2]

공부하는데 마침 친구가 왔어요.

마침 [Verb]-(으)려던 참이었어요.

마침 전화하려던 참이었어요.

마침 [Noun]-(이)라(서) [Result]

마침 방학이라 여행을 갔어요.

마침 [Verb]-ㄴ/은/는 덕분에 [Result]

마침 비가 그친 덕분에 행사를 마쳤다.

때마침 [Event]가 발생하여 [Result]

때마침 사고가 발생하여 길이 막혔다.

마침 [Abstract Concept]와 맞물려 [Result]

마침 시대적 요구와 맞물려 성공했다.

마침 [Event]가 종지부를 찍다

마침 그의 등장이 논쟁에 종지부를 찍었다.

Word Family

Nouns

맞춤 (customization/fitting)

Verbs

맞다 (to fit/to be correct)

마치다 (to finish - related etymologically but distinct in usage)

Adjectives

마침맞다 (to be just right/fitting)

딱 (exactly)

마침표 (period/full stop)

맞춤법 (orthography/spelling)

안성맞춤 (perfect fit)

공교롭다 (to be coincidental)

How to Use It

frequency

Extremely high in daily speech, literature, and media.

Common Mistakes

Using '마침' for 'finally'. → 마침내
You worked hard and finally passed the test. Use '마침내 합격했어요,' not '마침.' '마침' is for lucky timing, not the end of a long effort.
Using '마침' for 'just now' (time only). → 방금
If you just ate a sandwich 1 minute ago, say '방금 먹었어요.' Only use '마침' if someone just offered you a second sandwich and you're explaining why you're full.
Using '마침' for bad coincidences. → 하필
If you lose your wallet on your birthday, say '하필 생일에 지갑을...' Using '마침' here would sound like you are happy you lost it.
Using '마침' for planned meetings. → 시간 맞춰서
If you meet at 3 PM as agreed, don't say '마침 만났네요.' It sounds like you met by accident. Say '시간 맞춰 잘 오셨네요.'
Confusing '마침' with '아침'. → 마침 / 아침
They sound similar but '아침' is morning (noun) and '마침' is an adverb. Don't say '마침 먹었어요' when you mean 'I ate breakfast.'

Tips

Use it to be a better guest

When someone offers you something, say '마침 배고팠는데 고마워요' (I happened to be hungry, thank you). It makes their offer seem even more thoughtful.

Master the '-던 참이다' combo

This is the most 'native' way to use the word. It perfectly captures that moment when your thoughts and reality meet.

Contrast with '하필'

To truly understand '마침,' you must also learn its opposite, '하필.' This helps you categorize coincidences as good or bad.

Avoid awkwardness

If you walk into a room and feel like you're interrupting, say '마침 근처에 왔다가...' (I happened to be nearby...). It justifies your presence.

Use for narrative flow

In stories, use '마침' to transition between a character's need and a solution. It keeps the plot moving naturally.

Identify turning points

In dramas, when you hear '마침,' pay attention! Something important and unexpected is about to happen.

Placement matters

Keep '마침' near the start of the clause. If you bury it too deep, the sense of 'immediate coincidence' is lost.

Not just for time

While usually about time, it can also refer to a 'fitting' amount or state. But start with time first!

The 'Inyeon' connection

Remember that '마침' reflects the belief that things happen for a reason. Using it adds a touch of Korean sentiment to your speech.

Daily check

At the end of each day, think of one '마침' moment and write it in your journal. '마침 비가 안 왔다' or '마침 친구를 만났다'.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of 'MA-CHIM' as 'MATCH-HIM'. The situation 'MATCHES' the timing perfectly, like finding him just when you needed him.

Visual Association

Imagine a key sliding perfectly into a lock at the exact moment you were worried about being locked out.

Word Web

Timing Coincidence Luck Opportunity Just Fitting Serendipity Harmony

Challenge

Try to use '마침' at least three times today: once when you see a friend, once when you find something you lost, and once when you start a task just as someone mentions it.

Word Origin

Derived from the native Korean root related to '맞다' (to fit, to be right) and '마치다' (to finish, to complete). It suggests that a situation has 'fitted' into a specific time slot perfectly.

Original meaning: The original meaning was centered around the idea of a 'fitting' or 'completion' of an event in a timely manner.

Native Korean (Pure Korean word).

Cultural Context

There are no major taboos, but using '마침' for a tragic event (like a death) would be extremely insensitive unless the timing was somehow helpful, which is rare. Use '하필' for negative coincidences.

English speakers often use 'coincidentally' or 'it just so happens,' but '마침' is much more common in daily Korean than these phrases are in English.

Frequently used in K-Drama titles or key lines where characters meet by 'destiny'. Common in traditional Korean storytelling (Pansori) to introduce a lucky twist. Used in Korean news headlines to describe 'miracle' rescues or timely discoveries.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Unexpected Meetings

마침 잘 만났네요.
여기서 마침 뵙네요.
마침 연락하려던 참이었어요.
마침 지나가는 길이었어요.

Offering Help/Food

마침 간식이 좀 있어요.
마침 제가 시간이 돼요.
마침 남는 게 하나 있어요.
마침 차를 끓였는데 드실래요?

Solving a Problem

마침 우산이 있네요.
마침 돈이 딱 맞춰 있어요.
마침 해결책이 생각났어요.
마침 그 근처에 살아요.

Agreeing with a Suggestion

마침 저도 그러고 싶었어요.
마침 잘 됐네요.
마침 그 생각을 하고 있었어요.
마침 딱이네요.

Shopping/Service

마침 세일 기간이에요.
마침 재고가 하나 남았어요.
마침 사이즈가 맞네요.
마침 신제품이 나왔어요.

Conversation Starters

"마침 잘 오셨어요! 저희 방금 맛있는 거 먹으려고 했는데 같이 드실래요?"

"혹시 마침 오늘 저녁에 시간 되세요? 영화 티켓이 두 장 생겼거든요."

"아, 마침 잘 만났다! 너한테 빌린 책 돌려주려고 가져왔어."

"마침 그 이야기를 하려던 참이었는데, 어떻게 아셨어요?"

"마침 근처에 왔다가 생각나서 들렀는데, 바쁘신 건 아니죠?"

Journal Prompts

오늘 하루 중 '마침'이라고 느꼈던 순간이 있었나요? 그 상황을 자세히 적어보세요.

누군가에게 '마침 잘 오셨어요'라고 말해본 적이 있나요? 어떤 기분이었나요?

인생에서 가장 '마침' 운이 좋았던 기억은 무엇인가요? (예: 마침 버스가 와서 지각을 안 함)

'마침'과 '하필'의 차이를 생각하며, 운이 좋았던 일과 안 좋았던 일을 비교해서 써보세요.

만약 내가 필요할 때 '마침' 나타나는 마법의 물건이 있다면 무엇일까요?

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

Generally, no. '마침' implies the timing was useful or lucky. If it's a bad coincidence, use '하필' or '공교롭게도.' For example, if you miss the bus, don't say '마침 버스를 놓쳤어요' unless missing it somehow helped you (e.g., you avoided an accident).

It is neutral and can be used in both formal and informal settings. However, in very formal writing like a news report or a novel, '때마침' is often preferred for its descriptive weight.

This is a big one! '마침' means 'just in time' (coincidence). '마침내' means 'finally' or 'at last' (after a long wait or effort). They are not interchangeable. '마침내 성공했다' (Finally succeeded) vs '마침 그가 왔다' (He arrived just in time).

No, '마침' is an adverb that usually comes at the beginning of a clause or before the verb. It does not function as a sentence-ending particle.

Not always. It can be neutral, simply meaning that two things happened at once. '마침 그때 전기가 나갔어요' (Just then the power went out). It's more about 'opportune timing' than pure luck.

Use the pattern '마침 -(으)려던 참이다.' For example, '마침 나가려던 참이었어요' (I was just about to head out).

Yes! '딱 마침' is a very common way to say 'exactly at that perfect moment.' It adds emphasis to the coincidence.

No, they are etymologically different. '아침' comes from an old word for 'start/bright,' while '마침' comes from roots meaning 'to fit/match' or 'to finish'.

No. If you had an appointment, '마침' sounds strange. Use it only for unplanned, lucky timing.

Because it's a very positive, polite way to acknowledge that a situation has turned out perfectly for everyone involved. It's used multiple times a day by most Koreans.