It represents the absolute minimum limit in terms of quantity or degree.
Word in 30 Seconds
- Refers to the smallest possible amount or degree.
- Used to define limits or bottom-line requirements.
- Often used as '최소한' to mean 'at least'.
개요
'최소하다'는 '가장 작다'는 뜻의 한자어 '최소(最小)'에 접미사 '-하다'가 결합된 형태입니다. 어떤 상황에서든 더 이상 줄일 수 없는 한계치를 나타낼 때 사용합니다. 2) 사용 패턴: 주로 명사를 수식하거나 서술어로 사용됩니다. '최소한의 노력', '최소한으로 줄이다'와 같이 명사형인 '최소한'으로 더 자주 쓰이며, 이는 '적어도'라는 의미를 강조합니다. 3) 공통 문맥: 비용 절감, 시간 단축, 피해 방지 등 효율성을 강조하는 비즈니스나 일상 대화에서 빈번하게 등장합니다. 4) 유의어 비교: '가장 작다'와 비교하면 '최소하다'는 수량적인 측면에서의 한계점을 강조하는 느낌이 강합니다.
Examples
비용을 최소화하는 방법을 찾고 있어요.
everydayI am looking for a way to minimize costs.
피해를 최소한으로 줄여야 합니다.
formalWe must minimize the damage.
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
최소한의 예의
Minimum courtesy
시간을 최소화하다
Minimize time
Often Confused With
This is the direct opposite, meaning to maximize. Use this when you want to achieve the highest possible amount.
Grammar Patterns
How to Use It
Usage Notes
It is frequently used as a noun form '최소한' or with the suffix '-화' (to make). It is neutral in register but leans toward formal in business contexts. Use it to set a boundary for expectations.
Common Mistakes
Learners often use it as a standalone verb like '최소해요'. It is more natural to use '최소화하다' when describing an action of reducing something.
Tips
Use with nouns for emphasis
Pair it with nouns like '비용' (cost) or '시간' (time) to specify what is being minimized. This makes your request or statement much clearer.
Don't confuse with 'minimum'
While it means minimum, the Korean structure requires specific particles. Ensure you are using the correct grammar form to avoid awkward sentences.
Efficiency culture in Korea
Koreans value efficiency highly, so you will often hear this word in professional settings regarding budget or time management.
Word Origin
Derived from the Hanja characters 最 (most) and 小 (small). It combines to mean the most small degree.
Cultural Context
In Korean corporate culture, minimizing waste is a key virtue. Therefore, this word appears often in meetings and performance reviews.
Memory Tip
Think of 'Choi' (the most) + 'So' (small). The most small = minimum.
Frequently Asked Questions
3 questions최소하다는 상태를 설명하는 형용사이고, 최소한은 그 상태를 부사적으로 활용하거나 명사형으로 강조할 때 사용합니다. 일상에서는 최소한이라는 표현을 훨씬 더 자주 사용합니다.
최소하다의 반대말은 최대하다입니다. 양이나 정도가 가장 클 때 사용합니다.
어떤 비용이나 시간 등을 가능한 가장 낮은 수준까지 감소시킨다는 의미입니다. 효율성을 추구할 때 자주 쓰는 표현입니다.
Test Yourself
이번 프로젝트의 ___ 비용은 100만 원입니다.
가장 낮은 비용의 한계치를 나타내므로 최소한이 적절합니다.
Score: /1
Summary
It represents the absolute minimum limit in terms of quantity or degree.
- Refers to the smallest possible amount or degree.
- Used to define limits or bottom-line requirements.
- Often used as '최소한' to mean 'at least'.
Use with nouns for emphasis
Pair it with nouns like '비용' (cost) or '시간' (time) to specify what is being minimized. This makes your request or statement much clearer.
Don't confuse with 'minimum'
While it means minimum, the Korean structure requires specific particles. Ensure you are using the correct grammar form to avoid awkward sentences.
Efficiency culture in Korea
Koreans value efficiency highly, so you will often hear this word in professional settings regarding budget or time management.
Examples
2 of 2비용을 최소화하는 방법을 찾고 있어요.
I am looking for a way to minimize costs.
피해를 최소한으로 줄여야 합니다.
We must minimize the damage.
Related Content
This Word in Other Languages
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A2About, concerning; regarding a particular subject.
에 대한
A2Concerning or relating to; about, regarding.
~대하여
A2About, concerning, regarding.
대해서
A2Concerning or with regard to; about, regarding.
에 대해
A2About; regarding.
풍요롭다
A2To be abundant, prosperous, or rich.
관철하다
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~에 따라
B1According to, depending on; as stated by or determined by.
에 따라
A2According to; in accordance with.
에 따라
B1According to; as stated by or in conformity with.
