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Korean
Vocabulary
추진력

B2 noun #3,500 most common 10 min read

추진력

chujinryeok Top 3,500

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips 추진력 in 30 Seconds

Explanation 추진력 in your Level:

At the A1 level, 추진력 (chujinryeok) might be a bit difficult because it is an abstract noun. However, you can understand it by looking at its parts. 'Chu' means push, and 'ryeok' means power. So, it is 'pushing power.' Imagine you are pushing a heavy toy car. The energy you use to make it move forward is like 추진력. In simple Korean, we can think of it as '힘' (power) that makes things '가다' (go). You won't use this word to talk about simple things like eating or sleeping. You use it when you talk about big goals, like learning all the Korean alphabet in one week! If you study every day without stopping, you have 추진력. It is a very 'strong' and 'active' word. Even if you don't say it often, you will see it in books when characters are working hard to finish a big job. Just remember: Push + Forward + Power = 추진력.

For A2 learners, 추진력 is a useful word to know when describing people's personalities or work styles. You might learn words like '성격' (personality) or '장점' (strength). You can say, '제 장점은 추진력입니다' (My strength is my driving force). This means you are a person who gets things done quickly and doesn't give up. At this level, you can practice using it with the verb '있다' (to have) or '없다' (to not have). For example, '그 사람은 추진력이 있어요' (That person has driving force). You will also start to see this word in simple news stories about technology or space, like '로켓의 추진력' (the propulsion of a rocket). It's a great word to add to your vocabulary to sound more professional when talking about your hobbies or small projects you are working on.

At the B1 level, you should begin to understand the difference between 추진력 and other types of power like '체력' (physical stamina) or '능력' (ability). 추진력 is specifically about the *momentum* of a task. When you start a group project at school, the person who keeps everyone on schedule and makes sure the work gets done is providing the 추진력. You should practice using it with more complex verbs like '얻다' (to gain) or '잃다' (to lose). For example, '우리 팀은 새로운 아이디어를 얻어서 다시 추진력을 얻었어요' (Our team got a new idea and gained momentum again). This level is where you transition from seeing it as just 'power' to seeing it as 'the energy that overcomes obstacles.' It is a very common word in the Korean workplace, so if you plan to work in Korea, this is a 'must-know' term for meetings and reports.

B2 is the target level for this word. At this stage, you should be able to use 추진력 to discuss abstract social and political issues. You should understand that it's not just about a person's character, but also about the status of a policy or a movement. For instance, you might discuss how a government needs '국민의 지지' (public support) as a 추진력 to implement environmental laws. You should also be comfortable with the collocation '추진력을 발휘하다' (to exert/demonstrate driving force). At this level, you can distinguish 추진력 from '원동력' (the fundamental motive). While '원동력' is the 'why,' 추진력 is the 'how fast and how strong.' You will find this word constantly in editorials, business magazines, and documentaries. Using it correctly in your writing will significantly elevate your formal Korean proficiency.

For C1 learners, 추진력 should be a word you can use with nuanced modifiers and in complex rhetorical structures. You might talk about '집단적 추진력' (collective momentum) or '제도적 추진력' (institutional driving force). You should be able to analyze why a certain historical movement lost its 추진력 due to internal conflicts or external pressure. At this level, you can also use the word in its more technical, scientific sense when discussing physics or engineering without confusion. You might also explore the negative connotations—sometimes, too much 추진력 without '신중함' (caution) can lead to '독단' (dogmatism) or '부작용' (side effects). Being able to debate the balance between 추진력 and careful planning is a hallmark of an advanced speaker. You should also be familiar with related Hanja idioms or higher-level synonyms like '추동력' (impetus/driving force), which is even more formal.

At the C2 level, 추진력 is a tool for sophisticated discourse. You can use it to describe the macro-economic forces of a nation or the philosophical 'impetus' behind an era's art movement. You understand the subtle linguistic choice between 추진력, 추동력, and 원동력 in academic writing. You can use the word in metaphors, such as describing a person's conviction as the 추진력 that carries them through a lifetime of hardship. In a professional context, you might lead a board meeting and use this word to evaluate the feasibility of a multi-year strategic plan, discussing how to maintain 추진력 across different departments. Your grasp of the word is so complete that you can identify when it is being used as a buzzword in corporate propaganda versus when it describes a genuine organizational strength. You can also translate complex English concepts like 'socio-political impetus' or 'kinetic energy of a movement' using this term and its variants with perfect precision.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

추진력 in 30 Seconds

추진력 means 'driving force' or 'momentum' used for projects and leadership.
It comes from Hanja: Push (推) + Forward (進) + Power (力).
Commonly used with verbs like 'gain' (얻다), 'lose' (잃다), or 'exert' (발휘하다).
It is a key word for professional Korean and describing successful leaders.

The Korean word 추진력 (chujinryeok) is a powerful noun that combines three Hanja characters: Chu (推) meaning 'to push,' Jin (進) meaning 'to move forward,' and Ryeok (力) meaning 'power' or 'force.' When synthesized, it literally translates to 'the power to push something forward.' In English, we often translate this as momentum, driving force, initiative, or impetus. It is a word that bridges the gap between physical physics and abstract social dynamics. While it can technically describe the physical thrust of a rocket engine, it is overwhelmingly used in modern Korean to describe the human ability to execute plans, lead projects, or maintain the speed of a social movement. When a manager says an employee has great 추진력, they aren't talking about physical strength; they are praising that person's ability to take an idea and turn it into reality without getting bogged down by obstacles.

Professional Context: In corporate environments, this word is the ultimate compliment for a leader. It implies a sense of urgency and efficiency. A project without 추진력 is one that is stalled in meetings or bureaucracy.
Political and Social Context: Politicians often use this word to describe their ability to pass laws or implement reforms. A 'strong 추진력' suggests that the politician will not be swayed by opposition and will see their promises through to the end.

그 팀장은 놀라운 추진력으로 프로젝트를 성공시켰다. (That team leader made the project a success with amazing driving force.)

Understanding the nuance of 추진력 requires looking at the Korean work culture, often characterized by the 'Palli-Palli' (hurry-hurry) spirit. In such a culture, the ability to maintain speed and overcome resistance is highly valued. It is not just about starting a task, but about the energy that keeps it going when the initial excitement fades. It is the opposite of procrastination or hesitation. If you are described as having 추진력, you are seen as a 'doer' rather than just a 'thinker.' This word is frequently paired with verbs like '얻다' (to gain), '잃다' (to lose), or '발휘하다' (to demonstrate/exert).

개혁안이 힘을 얻으려면 국민의 지지라는 추진력이 필요합니다. (For the reform proposal to gain strength, it needs the momentum of public support.)

Physical Science: In aerospace or mechanical engineering, this refers to 'propulsion' or 'thrust.' For example, a rocket's 추진력 must exceed its weight to lift off.

In summary, 추진력 is a high-frequency, high-impact word used to describe the intangible force that moves things from concept to completion. It is a vital term for anyone looking to work in a Korean professional environment or follow Korean news and politics. It encapsulates the energy of progress and the determination to overcome inertia.

Using 추진력 correctly involves understanding its role as a noun that usually functions as the object of a sentence or as a quality someone 'possesses.' It is almost never used in casual, slang-heavy conversations among friends about small things (like deciding what to eat), but rather for significant endeavors like career goals, business ventures, or social changes. To use it naturally, you should pair it with specific verbs that describe the state of this 'force.'

Common Verb Pairings: 1. 추진력을 얻다: To gain momentum. Used when a project starts getting support or funding.
2. 추진력을 잃다: To lose momentum. Used when a project stalls due to lack of interest or resources.
3. 추진력이 있다/없다: To have/not have driving force. Used to describe a person's character or a project's status.

새로운 투자 덕분에 우리 사업은 큰 추진력을 얻게 되었습니다. (Thanks to the new investment, our business has gained great momentum.)

When describing a person, 추진력 often takes adjectives like '강력한' (powerful), '남다른' (extraordinary), or '부족한' (lacking). If you want to say someone is a 'go-getter,' you might say '그는 추진력이 강한 사람이다.' This suggests they are decisive and fast-acting. In contrast, if someone is all talk and no action, you might say they 'lack 추진력.'

정부는 정책 실행을 위해 더 강한 추진력을 발휘해야 합니다. (The government must exert stronger driving force to implement the policy.)

In a more technical sense, you can use it to describe physical objects. For instance, in a science report: '연료의 연소는 로켓에 필요한 추진력을 제공한다' (The combustion of fuel provides the necessary propulsion for the rocket). However, as a language learner, you will encounter the figurative 'leadership' meaning 90% of the time. It is a key word for B2 level learners because it shows an ability to discuss abstract concepts of management and social progress.

Sentence Structure Examples: [Subject] + [추진력] + [Verb]. Example: '그의 추진력은 대단하다.' (His driving force is amazing.)
[Subject] + [추진력] + [을/를] + [Verb]. Example: '우리는 추진력을 모아야 한다.' (We must gather momentum.)

Lastly, consider the nuance of '추진' (the act of pushing forward) vs '추진력' (the power to do so). '추진' is the action, while '추진력' is the capability or energy behind it. You '추진' a project (verb form: 추진하다), but you have the '추진력' to make it happen.

You will most frequently encounter 추진력 in formal settings, media, and professional literature. It is a staple of Korean news broadcasts, especially during segments on economics, politics, and technology. If a new law is being debated, news anchors will often ask if the current administration has enough 추진력 to pass it through the National Assembly. In business news, a CEO's 추진력 is often cited as the reason for a company's rapid expansion or successful turnaround.

이번 신제품 출시는 사장님의 강력한 추진력 덕분에 가능했습니다. (The launch of this new product was possible thanks to the CEO's strong driving force.)

In the workplace, you might hear this during performance reviews or strategy meetings. A manager might say, '우리에겐 지금 실행보다 추진력이 더 필요합니다' (We need more driving force than just execution right now), implying that the team needs to pick up the pace and overcome hurdles more aggressively. It is also a common word in self-help books and motivational speeches in Korea. Authors often write about how to develop your own internal 추진력 to achieve personal goals like learning a language or starting a diet.

Another place you'll find this word is in sports commentary. When a team that was losing starts to score and take control of the game, the commentator might say they have gained 추진력. In this context, it's very close to the English sports term 'momentum.' It describes a psychological state where success breeds more success, and the team feels unstoppable.

News Headlines: '정부, 신재생 에너지 사업에 추진력 더한다' (Government adds momentum to renewable energy projects.)
Job Interviews: '저의 가장 큰 장점은 목표를 향한 끈기 있는 추진력입니다.' (My greatest strength is my persistent driving force toward goals.)

Finally, in the context of space exploration or military technology, 추진력 is used literally. When South Korea launched its Nuri rocket, the technical discussions were filled with the word 추진력 to describe the engine's power. While this is a different domain, the core concept remains the same: the energy required to move something forward against resistance (gravity or bureaucracy).

One of the most common mistakes English speakers make when using 추진력 is confusing it with '동기' (motivation) or '에너지' (energy). While they are related, they are not interchangeable. 동기 is the *reason* you do something, whereas 추진력 is the *force* that keeps you doing it. You might have the motivation (동기) to lose weight, but if you stop going to the gym after two days, you lack the 추진력 to continue. Similarly, 에너지 is a general state of being, while 추진력 is specifically directed toward a goal or project.

Incorrect: 그 프로젝트는 좋은 동기가 없어서 중단되었다. (The project stopped because it lacked good motivation - *Incorrect if you mean the project lost its momentum*.)
Correct: 그 프로젝트는 추진력을 잃어서 중단되었다. (The project stopped because it lost its momentum.)

Another mistake is using 추진력 for small, personal daily tasks. It sounds a bit overly dramatic to say you need 추진력 to wash the dishes or go to the grocery store. For these mundane tasks, words like '의욕' (will/desire) or '기운' (energy/spirit) are more appropriate. Save 추진력 for things that involve a 'push' against a significant 'resistance' or a 'forward motion' of a larger scale.

Learners also sometimes struggle with the particles. Because 추진력 is an abstract power, it is often described as something you 'have' (있다) or 'exert' (발휘하다). You don't 'make' 추진력 (추진력을 만들다 is awkward); you 'secure' it (확보하다) or 'gain' it (얻다). Misusing the verb can make the sentence sound 'translated' rather than natural.

Confusion with '실행력' (Execution Power): 실행력 focuses on the ability to start and do a task. 추진력 focuses on the force that carries that task forward through time and obstacles. They are often used together, but 추진력 feels more like 'momentum' while 실행력 feels more like 'action-taking.'

Lastly, remember that 추진력 is a noun. You cannot say '추진력하다.' If you want to use a verb, you must use '추진하다' (to promote/push forward), but keep in mind that '추진하다' is the action, and '추진력' is the quality or force. Forgetting the '력' (power) suffix changes the meaning from the 'force' to the 'act of pushing.'

To truly master 추진력, it is helpful to compare it with its synonyms and related terms. Korean has several words that describe 'power' or 'force,' each with a specific flavor. Understanding these differences will help you choose the right word for the right context.

1. 원동력 (Wondongnyeok) - Driving Force / Motive Power: 원동력 literally means 'original moving power.' It refers to the fundamental source or cause that makes something happen. While 추진력 is the force that keeps things moving forward, 원동력 is the 'engine' or 'spark' that started it all. Example: '가족은 내 삶의 원동력이다' (Family is the driving force/motive power of my life).
2. 실행력 (Silhaengnyeok) - Execution Power: This focuses on the ability to put plans into action. A person with high 실행력 doesn't just dream; they act. 추진력 includes this but adds the nuance of maintaining that action against resistance. You might have the 실행력 to start a business, but you need 추진력 to grow it over five years.
3. 기세 (Gise) - Momentum / Spirit: 기세 is more about the 'vibe' or 'aura' of momentum, often used in sports or battles. If a team is winning and looks confident, they have a strong 기세. 추진력 is more technical and focused on the actual progress of a task.

비교:
1. 그 프로젝트는 추진력이 필요하다 (The project needs momentum/drive.)
2. 그 프로젝트는 원동력이 필요하다 (The project needs a fundamental source of power/reason.)

In formal reports, you might also see 박차 (Bakcha), which comes from the word for 'spurs' used on a horse. The phrase '박차를 가하다' (to add spurs) means to accelerate or give a final push to something. This is very similar to '추진력을 더하다' but feels more like a sudden increase in speed at the end of a process.

For a more casual alternative, you might use '밀어붙이는 힘' (the power to push through). This is a native Korean expression that means the exact same thing as the Hanja-based 추진력 but sounds less like a textbook and more like everyday speech. For example, '그는 일을 밀어붙이는 힘이 좋다' (He has good power to push work through) is a natural way to describe someone's 추진력 in a casual office setting.

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

While the word sounds very modern and corporate, the characters 推 and 進 have been used for centuries to describe military advances and the movement of astronomical bodies.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /tɕʰu.dʑin.njʌk/

US /tɕʰu.dʑin.njʌk/

The stress is equal across syllables, but the 'nyeok' sound is slightly more emphatic in formal speech.

Rhymes With

공격 (gong-gyeok) 충격 (chung-gyeok) 능력 (neung-nyeok) 협력 (hyeop-nyeok) 노력 (no-ryeok) 기억 (gi-eok) 지역 (ji-yeok) 성적 (seong-jeok)

Common Errors

Pronouncing 'ryeok' as 'ryeok' instead of 'nyeok' (it should be [추진녁]).
Not aspirating the 'ch' in 'chu'.
Pronouncing 'jin' with a hard 'z' sound.
Making the 'eo' in 'ryeok' sound too much like 'o'.
Shortening the word to '추진' when '추진력' is required.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 4/5

Common in news and books, but requires Hanja knowledge for deep understanding.

Writing 5/5

Needs correct collocation with formal verbs to sound natural.

Speaking 4/5

Useful in professional settings; pronunciation has a nasalization rule.

Listening 4/5

Frequently heard in podcasts, news, and dramas.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

힘 계획 성공 리더 시작

Learn Next

원동력 실행력 추동력 혁신 성과

Advanced

일사천리 박차를 가하다 상보상제 유지경성

Grammar to Know

Nouns ending in consonants + 이/가 (Subject)

추진력이 좋다.

Nouns ending in consonants + 을/를 (Object)

추진력을 얻다.

N + 덕분에 (Thanks to)

그의 추진력 덕분에 성공했다.

V + 기 위해 (In order to)

추진력을 얻기 위해 노력한다.

V + 도록 (So that/Until)

추진력을 잃지 않도록 조심해.

Examples by Level

그는 추진력이 좋은 사람이에요.

He is a person with good driving force.

Using -이/가 with the noun 추진력 to describe a quality.

우리는 추진력이 필요해요.

We need driving force.

The object particle -이/가 is used with the verb 필요하다.

로켓은 추진력이 강해요.

The rocket has strong propulsion.

Adjective 강하다 (to be strong) describing the noun.

추진력이 있으면 성공해요.

If you have driving force, you succeed.

The conditional -(으)면 means 'if'.

이 차는 추진력이 없어요.

This car has no propulsion.

없다 is the opposite of 있다 (to have).

그녀는 추진력이 대단해요.

Her driving force is amazing.

대단하다 means 'to be great' or 'amazing'.

추진력을 보여주세요.

Please show your driving force.

The imperative -(으)세요 is used for requests.

추진력이 부족해요.

The driving force is lacking.

부족하다 means 'to be insufficient'.

새 팀장은 추진력이 아주 뛰어납니다.

The new team leader's driving force is very outstanding.

뛰어나다 is a more advanced way to say 'excellent'.

일을 끝내려면 추진력이 있어야 합니다.

To finish the work, you must have driving force.

-아/어야 하다 expresses necessity (must).

그 프로젝트는 추진력을 잃었습니다.

That project has lost its momentum.

잃다 means 'to lose' (past tense 잃었다).

성공의 비결은 강력한 추진력입니다.

The secret to success is powerful driving force.

비결 means 'secret' or 'key' to something.

추진력이 부족해서 계획이 늦어졌어요.

The plan was delayed because of a lack of driving force.

-아/어서 indicates a reason or cause.

그는 남다른 추진력으로 회사를 세웠다.

He founded the company with extraordinary driving force.

남다른 means 'extraordinary' or 'unusual'.

우리는 새로운 추진력을 얻어야 해요.

We need to gain new momentum.

얻다 means 'to get' or 'to gain'.

그의 추진력 덕분에 일이 빨리 끝났다.

Thanks to his driving force, the work finished quickly.

덕분에 means 'thanks to' (positive cause).

리더에게 가장 필요한 덕목은 추진력입니다.

The most necessary virtue for a leader is driving force.

덕목 means 'virtue' or 'moral quality'.

정부는 경제 회복을 위한 추진력을 확보했다.

The government secured the momentum for economic recovery.

확보하다 means 'to secure' or 'to procure'.

계획만 세우지 말고 추진력을 발휘해 보세요.

Don't just make plans; try to exert some driving force.

-지 말고 means 'don't do X, but do Y'.

자금 부족으로 인해 추진력이 약해지고 있다.

The momentum is weakening due to a lack of funds.

-로 인해 means 'due to' or 'because of'.

이 사업은 초기 추진력이 매우 중요합니다.

Initial momentum is very important for this business.

초기 means 'initial' or 'early stage'.

그녀의 추진력은 팀원들에게 큰 자극이 되었다.

Her driving force became a great stimulus for the team members.

자극 means 'stimulus' or 'motivation'.

추진력을 잃지 않도록 계속 노력해야 합니다.

We must keep trying so as not to lose momentum.

-도록 means 'so that' or 'in order to'.

새로운 기술이 우리 프로젝트의 추진력이 될 것이다.

New technology will be the driving force of our project.

Future tense -(으)ㄹ 것이다.

강력한 추진력 없이는 개혁을 완수할 수 없다.

Without powerful driving force, reforms cannot be completed.

완수하다 means 'to complete' or 'to fulfill a mission'.

그 정치가는 행정적 추진력이 뛰어나다는 평가를 받는다.

That politician is evaluated as having excellent administrative driving force.

평가를 받다 means 'to be evaluated' or 'to receive an assessment'.

시장의 지지는 신제품 개발에 큰 추진력이 된다.

Market support becomes a great driving force for new product development.

지지는 (support) acts as the subject here.

추진력을 얻기 위해 대대적인 홍보를 시작했다.

To gain momentum, we started extensive promotion.

대대적인 means 'extensive' or 'large-scale'.

그의 독단적인 추진력은 때로 갈등을 일으키기도 한다.

His dogmatic driving force sometimes causes conflict.

독단적 means 'dogmatic' or 'arbitrary'.

우리는 이번 기회를 추진력 삼아 도약해야 합니다.

We must use this opportunity as momentum to take a leap forward.

삼아 means 'taking (something) as' or 'using as'.

환경 규제 강화가 친환경 산업의 추진력이 되고 있다.

Strengthening environmental regulations is becoming the driving force for eco-friendly industries.

강화 means 'strengthening' or 'reinforcement'.

그는 업무 추진력이 좋지만 세심함이 부족하다.

He has good work drive, but he lacks attention to detail.

세심함 means 'attention to detail' or 'carefulness'.

역사적 전환점에는 언제나 대중의 추진력이 있었다.

At historical turning points, there was always the driving force of the masses.

전환점 means 'turning point'.

기업의 생존은 혁신을 향한 끊임없는 추진력에 달려 있다.

A company's survival depends on its constant driving force toward innovation.

~에 달려 있다 means 'depends on'.

그 정책은 여야 합의라는 추진력을 얻지 못해 표류하고 있다.

The policy is drifting because it hasn't gained the momentum of a ruling-opposition agreement.

표류하다 literally means 'to drift' but figuratively means 'to stall/fail to progress'.

리더의 추진력이 지나치면 조직의 창의성을 해칠 수 있다.

If a leader's driving force is excessive, it can harm the organization's creativity.

해치다 means 'to harm' or 'to damage'.

이론적 토대 위에 실천적 추진력이 더해져야 변화가 일어난다.

Change occurs only when practical driving force is added to a theoretical foundation.

토대 means 'foundation' or 'basis'.

그는 냉철한 판단력과 과감한 추진력을 동시에 겸비했다.

He possesses both cool-headed judgment and bold driving force.

겸비하다 means 'to possess both' or 'to combine'.

시민사회의 추진력이 부패한 정권을 무너뜨리는 원동력이 되었다.

The driving force of civil society became the motive power that brought down the corrupt regime.

무너뜨리다 means 'to tear down' or 'to collapse'.

경제 성장의 추진력을 유지하기 위해 규제 개혁이 시급하다.

To maintain the momentum of economic growth, regulatory reform is urgent.

시급하다 means 'to be urgent' or 'to be pressing'.

구조적 모순을 타파하기 위해서는 범국가적인 추진력이 요구된다.

To break down structural contradictions, a pan-national driving force is required.

범국가적 means 'pan-national' or 'nationwide'.

그 사상가는 자신의 철학을 사회 변화의 추진력으로 승화시켰다.

That thinker sublimated his philosophy into a driving force for social change.

승화시키다 means 'to sublimate' or 'to elevate to a higher level'.

기술적 특이점은 인류 문명에 전례 없는 추진력을 제공할 것이다.

The technological singularity will provide unprecedented momentum to human civilization.

전례 없는 means 'unprecedented'.

권력의 추진력이 정당성을 상실할 때 독재로 흐르기 쉽다.

When the driving force of power loses legitimacy, it is easy to slip into dictatorship.

상실하다 means 'to lose' or 'to be deprived of' (formal).

자본의 논리가 추진력을 얻으면서 인간 소외 현상이 심화되었다.

As the logic of capital gained momentum, the phenomenon of human alienation deepened.

심화되다 means 'to deepen' or 'to intensify'.

지정학적 리스크가 지역 경제의 추진력을 잠식하고 있다.

Geopolitical risks are eroding the momentum of the regional economy.

잠식하다 means 'to erode' or 'to encroach upon'.

예술적 영감은 창작 활동의 내면적 추진력으로 작용한다.

Artistic inspiration acts as the internal driving force of creative activities.

작용하다 means 'to act' or 'to function as'.

지속 가능한 발전을 위해서는 생태적 가치가 추진력의 근간이 되어야 한다.

For sustainable development, ecological values must be the basis of the driving force.

근간 means 'basis' or 'foundation'.

Synonyms

원동력 실행력 박력 기세

Antonyms

저항 정체

Common Collocations

추진력을 얻다

추진력을 잃다

추진력을 발휘하다

강력한 추진력

추진력이 부족하다

추진력이 있다

추진력을 더하다

추진력을 확보하다

남다른 추진력

업무 추진력

Common Phrases

추진력이 좋다

— To have a good ability to push things forward.

그 친구는 추진력이 정말 좋아.

추진력을 잃어버리다

— To completely lose the momentum of a task.

중간에 추진력을 잃어버리면 안 돼.

추진력이 대단하다

— To have an amazing or impressive driving force.

사장님의 추진력은 정말 대단하세요.

추진력을 실어주다

— To give support or weight to a project's momentum.

부장님이 제 기획안에 추진력을 실어주셨어요.

추진력이 약하다

— To have a weak driving force or lack initiative.

생각은 많은데 추진력이 약한 게 흠이다.

추진력이 뒷받침되다

— To have momentum supported by other factors.

기술력이 추진력을 뒷받침해주고 있다.

추진력을 강화하다

— To strengthen the momentum or driving force.

조직의 추진력을 강화할 대책을 세웠다.

추진력을 쏟다

— To pour all one's energy into pushing something forward.

모든 추진력을 이 일에 쏟아부었다.

추진력이 남다르다

— To have a driving force that stands out from others.

그의 추진력은 남다른 데가 있다.

추진력을 잃지 않다

— To not lose momentum; to keep going.

끝까지 추진력을 잃지 않는 것이 중요하다.

Often Confused With

추진력 vs 동기

Motivation is the 'why'; 추진력 is the 'how strong' and 'how fast'.

추진력 vs 에너지

Energy is general; 추진력 is specifically for moving a project forward.

추진력 vs 속도

Speed is how fast; 추진력 is the force that maintains or creates that speed.

Idioms & Expressions

"불도저 같은 추진력"

— A driving force like a bulldozer (unstoppable and aggressive).

그는 불도저 같은 추진력으로 반대를 뚫고 나갔다.

Informal/Metaphorical

"박차를 가하다"

— To spur on; to speed up a process (often used with 추진력).

신제품 개발에 박차를 가하고 있다.

Formal

"바람을 타다"

— To ride the wind (to gain easy momentum from external trends).

유행의 바람을 타고 사업이 추진력을 얻었다.

Literary

"물 들어올 때 노 젓다"

— Row when the tide is in (take advantage of momentum).

추진력을 얻었을 때 물 들어올 때 노 저어야 한다.

Colloquial

"탄력을 받다"

— To gain elasticity/momentum (very similar to 추진력을 얻다).

수출이 탄력을 받기 시작했다.

Neutral

"뒷심이 부족하다"

— To lack 'back-power' (to lose momentum at the very end).

그는 추진력은 좋지만 뒷심이 부족하다.

Neutral

"쇠뿔도 단김에 빼다"

— Pull out the bull's horn while it's hot (act with immediate drive).

추진력이 생겼을 때 쇠뿔도 단김에 빼야지.

Proverb

"천군만마를 얻다"

— To gain a thousand soldiers and ten thousand horses (to get huge support/momentum).

그의 합류로 우리는 천군만마 같은 추진력을 얻었다.

Literary/Hanja

"일사천리로 진행되다"

— To proceed like a thousand-mile river (with great speed and drive).

업무가 일사천리로 추진되고 있다.

Formal/Hanja

"고삐를 죄다"

— To tighten the reins (to increase control and drive).

프로젝트 완성을 위해 고삐를 죄고 추진력을 높였다.

Neutral

Easily Confused

추진력 vs 원동력

Both mean 'driving force.'

원동력 is the fundamental source/engine. 추진력 is the momentum/impetus of the process.

가족은 나의 원동력이고, 열정은 나의 추진력이다.

추진력 vs 실행력

Both involve doing things.

실행력 is the power to start and act. 추진력 is the power to keep pushing forward through time.

그는 실행력은 좋지만 추진력이 부족해 금방 포기한다.

추진력 vs 추동력

Very similar meaning.

추동력 is more formal/academic and often used for social or economic forces.

시장 경제의 추동력은 경쟁에서 나온다.

추진력 vs 저력

Both are types of power.

저력 is hidden, accumulated strength. 추진력 is active, forward-moving strength.

그 팀은 위기 상황에서 저력과 추진력을 모두 보여주었다.

추진력 vs 의지

Both involve the mind.

의지 is the 'will' or 'determination.' 추진력 is the 'action-oriented force' resulting from that will.

강한 의지가 있어야 강력한 추진력이 생긴다.

Sentence Patterns

[Person]은/는 추진력이 좋아요.

민수 씨는 추진력이 좋아요.

[Project]이/가 추진력을 얻었습니다.

우리 사업이 추진력을 얻었습니다.

추진력을 잃지 않으려면 [Action]해야 해요.

추진력을 잃지 않으려면 계속 공부해야 해요.

[Subject]의 추진력 덕분에 [Result]했다.

팀장님의 추진력 덕분에 계약을 따냈다.

[Subject]은/는 추진력을 발휘하여 [Action]했다.

정부는 추진력을 발휘하여 법안을 통과시켰다.

[Subject]에 추진력을 더하기 위해 [Action]이 시급하다.

수출에 추진력을 더하기 위해 규제 완화가 시급하다.

[Subject]은/는 [A]와 추진력을 동시에 갖췄다.

그는 유연함과 추진력을 동시에 갖췄다.

[Concept]이/가 추진력의 근간이 되어 [Result]를 낳았다.

시민 정신이 추진력의 근간이 되어 민주화를 낳았다.

Word Family

Nouns

추진 (promotion/push)

추진체 (propellant/thruster)

추진기 (propeller)

추진위원 (promotion committee member)

Verbs

추진하다 (to promote/push forward)

추진되다 (to be promoted/pushed forward)

Adjectives

추진력 있는 (having driving force)

추진적인 (promotional/driving)

동력

원동력

실행력

추동력

압력

How to Use It

frequency

Very high in business and political discourse.

Common Mistakes

Using '추진력' for physical strength. → 체력 (stamina) or 힘 (strength).
추진력 is for 'propelling' a project or task, not for lifting weights at the gym.
Saying '추진력을 만들다'. → 추진력을 확보하다 or 추진력을 얻다.
In Korean, you 'secure' or 'gain' momentum rather than 'making' it like a physical object.
Pronouncing it as 'Chu-jin-ryeok'. → Chu-jin-nyeok [추진녁].
Korean phonological rules require nasalization here. 'n' + 'r' becomes 'n' + 'n'.
Using it for minor daily tasks. → 의욕 (will/desire) or 기운 (energy).
추진력 sounds too grand for things like cleaning your room or going to the store.
Confusing it with '동기' (motivation). → 추진력 (momentum/drive).
Motivation is why you start; 추진력 is the power that keeps you moving forward.

Tips

Think of a Rocket

Visualizing a rocket helps you remember that 추진력 is about 'forward' and 'upward' force. It's not just moving; it's moving with power.

Collocation is Key

Don't just learn the word. Learn '추진력을 얻다' (gain) and '추진력을 잃다' (lose). These are the most common ways you'll hear it.

Office Compliment

If you want to impress a Korean boss, tell them they have great 추진력. It’s one of the highest compliments for a leader.

Balance it out

Remember that while 추진력 is good, in advanced Korean, it's often discussed alongside '신중함' (caution) to show you are a balanced thinker.

The Nasal N

Practice saying [추진녁]. If you say [추진력] with a rolling 'r' or a clear 'l', it will sound unnatural to Korean ears.

Resume Power

Use this word when writing your 'Self-Introduction' (자기소개서) for Korean companies. It shows you are an active worker.

News Keywords

Listen for this word in news about '정부 정책' (government policy). It's used to describe if the policy is actually moving forward or just talk.

Analyze Hanja

Whenever you see '력' (力) at the end of a word, you know it's a type of 'power' or 'ability.' This helps you guess other words like '기억력' (memory) or '상상력' (imagination).

Don't Overuse

Don't use it for small things like 'I have the drive to eat lunch.' Use it for 'I have the drive to finish this report by 5 PM.'

Mnemonic Story

Create a story about a leader named 'Mr. Chu' who 'Jin-ned' (joined) the 'Ryeok' (force) to save his company.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of a 'CHOO-CHOO' train. It needs 'JIN' (energy) and 'RYEOK' (power) to keep pushing forward on the tracks.

Visual Association

Imagine a rocket booster firing. That fire is the '추진력' that pushes the heavy metal into space.

Word Web

Leader Rocket Project Speed Power Action Success Momentum

Challenge

Try to describe a time you showed '추진력' in your life. Use the phrase '추진력을 발휘하다' in a sentence.

Word Origin

Derived from Hanja (Sino-Korean) characters. It is a combination of three distinct roots used to form a compound noun.

Original meaning: 推 (Push) + 進 (Move Forward) + 力 (Power/Force).

Sino-Korean (Hanja-based)

Cultural Context

None. This is a positive, professional word.

In English, we might use 'drive' or 'hustle,' but '추진력' sounds more professional and focused on the project's progress than the person's ego.

Used frequently in the drama 'Misaeng' to describe corporate life. A key term in the movie 'The Admiral: Roaring Currents' regarding naval strategy. Commonly used by Samsung and Hyundai CEOs in New Year's addresses.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Business Meetings

추진력을 높입시다.
추진력이 필요합니다.
추진력을 얻었습니다.
추진력을 발휘합시다.

Job Interviews

저의 장점은 추진력입니다.
추진력 있게 일하겠습니다.
남다른 추진력을 가졌습니다.
추진력으로 성과를 냈습니다.

News/Politics

정부의 추진력이 시험대에 올랐다.
추진력을 상실한 정책.
강력한 추진력을 약속했다.
국민적 추진력을 모으다.

Science/Physics

로켓의 추진력 원리.
강한 추진력을 내다.
추진력이 부족한 엔진.
추진력을 계산하다.

Personal Growth

나만의 추진력을 찾자.
추진력을 유지하는 법.
추진력이 생겼어.
추진력을 잃지 마.

Conversation Starters

"그 프로젝트는 요즘 추진력을 좀 얻고 있나요?"

"새로 오신 부장님 추진력이 정말 대단하지 않아요?"

"일을 끝까지 해내는 추진력을 키우려면 어떻게 해야 할까요?"

"추진력이 강한 리더와 꼼꼼한 리더 중 누가 더 좋으세요?"

"요즘 제 삶에 추진력이 좀 부족한 것 같아요. 조언해 주실 수 있나요?"

Journal Prompts

내가 살면서 가장 큰 추진력을 발휘했던 순간은 언제였나? 그 결과는 어떠했는가?

추진력과 세심함 사이에서 균형을 잡는 것이 왜 중요한지 써보세요.

현재 내가 추진력을 잃고 있는 일이 있다면, 그 원인은 무엇이고 어떻게 다시 시작할 수 있을까?

내가 생각하는 이상적인 리더의 추진력은 어떤 모습인가?

추진력을 얻기 위해 나에게 가장 필요한 '원동력'은 무엇인가?

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

Technically, you can use it in physics to describe propulsion, but for a car's 'acceleration' or 'power,' Koreans usually use words like '가속력' (acceleration) or '출력' (output/power). '추진력' sounds more like a rocket or a boat.

It is grammatically correct, but Koreans almost always say '추진력이 부족하다' (lacks drive) or '추진력이 약하다' (weak drive) instead of '나쁘다' (bad).

There isn't one perfect opposite word, but '정체' (stagnation) or '무력감' (helplessness) are often used in contexts where 추진력 is missing. '저항' (resistance) is what 추진력 has to overcome.

Say something like '저는 목표가 정해지면 끝까지 밀어붙이는 추진력을 가지고 있습니다' (Once a goal is set, I have the driving force to push it through to the end).

Usually, yes. However, if someone is 'too' driven and ignores others' opinions, it can be described as '독단적인 추진력' (dogmatic/arbitrary drive), which has a negative nuance.

No, it is only a noun. You must use it with verbs like '있다,' '얻다,' or '발휘하다.' The related verb is '추진하다' (to promote/push forward).

추진 is the act of pushing a plan forward. 추진력 is the power or capability to do that act. You '추진' a project using your '추진력'.

Yes! If you are studying very hard for an exam and making great progress, you can say '공부에 추진력이 붙었다' (My studies have gained momentum).

Extremely common in newspapers, office environments, and any talk about goals and leadership. It's a key word for intermediate-advanced learners.

Because of the 'n' in 'jin' (진), the 'r' in 'ryeok' (력) changes to an 'n' sound. So it sounds like 'chujin-nyeok' [추진녁].