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B2 noun #4,000 most common 12 min read

독점

dokjeom Top 4,000

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips 독점 in 30 Seconds

Explanation 독점 in your Level:

At the A1 level, you don't need to use the word '독점' (dok-jeom) yet. It is a big, difficult word. Instead, you can use simple words to say the same thing. If you want to say 'I have it all alone,' you can say '혼자' (hon-ja - alone) or '다' (da - all). For example, '내가 다 먹었어' (I ate it all). '독점' is a word adults use when they talk about big companies or when someone is being very selfish and not sharing anything. Think of it like this: if you have five candies and you don't give any to your friends, you are doing a '독점' of the candies. But for now, just remember that '독' means 'alone' and '점' means 'taking.' It's a word for taking something all for yourself.

At the A2 level, you might see '독점' (monopoly) in simple news stories or advertisements. You should know it means 'only one.' For example, if a store says '독점 판매' (dok-jeom pan-mae), it means 'Only we sell this.' You can't buy it at other stores. It comes from Hanja: 獨 (alone) and 占 (take). You might also hear it when people talk about games or toys. If one child takes all the blocks and doesn't let others play, they are '독점'ing the blocks. It's a bit more formal than saying '혼자 가져가다' (taking it alone). When you see '독점' on a TV show, it usually means 'Exclusive'—like a special story that only that TV station has.

At the B1 level, you should start using '독점' in specific contexts like business or social issues. You can use the verb form '독점하다.' For example, '그 회사가 시장을 독점하고 있어요' (That company is monopolizing the market). This level requires you to understand that '독점' isn't just about physical objects; it can be about '기회' (opportunity) or '정보' (information). You will often hear about '독점 인터뷰' (exclusive interview) in media. It's important to differentiate '독점' from '단독' (solo). '독점' often has a slightly negative feeling, like someone is being unfair by keeping everything for themselves. You should be able to understand simple articles about '독점 금지' (anti-monopoly) rules.

At the B2 level, you are expected to use '독점' (monopoly) accurately in discussions about economics, politics, and social psychology. You should understand related terms like '독점적 지위' (monopolistic position) and '독점 규제' (monopoly regulation). You should be able to explain why a monopoly might be bad for a country's economy using this word. For example, '독점은 경쟁을 줄여서 가격을 높입니다' (Monopoly reduces competition and raises prices). You should also recognize the word in literature or dramas where it describes a character's desire to '독점' someone's love or attention. At this level, you should be comfortable using '독점' in both its literal economic sense and its metaphorical social sense.

At the C1 level, you should have a deep understanding of '독점' and its legal and systemic implications. You should be able to discuss '천연 독점' (natural monopoly), '국가 독점' (state monopoly), and the '독점 규제 및 공정거래에 관한 법률' (Monopoly Regulation and Fair Trade Act). You should understand the nuance between '독점' and '과점' (oligopoly) and use the combined term '독과점' (monopoly and oligopoly) when discussing market dominance. Your usage should extend to abstract concepts like '담론의 독점' (monopoly of discourse) or '진리의 독점' (monopoly of truth). You should be able to write an essay or give a presentation on how digital platforms are creating new forms of '데이터 독점' (data monopoly) in the modern era.

At the C2 level, '독점' is a tool for precise academic and professional critique. You can analyze the '독점적 경쟁 시장' (monopolistic competition market) theory and discuss the historical impact of '재벌의 시장 독점' (market monopoly by Chaebols) on the Korean economy's structure. You should be able to use the word in high-level legal contexts, understanding how '독점' is defined by market share percentages and entry barriers. Furthermore, you can use '독점' in sophisticated literary criticism to describe the '독점적 시선' (monopolistic gaze) in a text. You should be able to debate the ethics of '지식 재산권의 독점' (monopoly of intellectual property rights) vs. the public good, using nuanced vocabulary and perfect grammatical structures.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

독점 in 30 Seconds

Dokjeom (독점) means monopoly or exclusive possession, where one entity controls a resource or market.
It is commonly used in business (market monopoly) and social contexts (monopolizing attention or conversation).
The word carries a formal tone and often implies a lack of competition or fairness.
Key combinations include 'Antitrust Law' (독점 금지법) and 'Exclusive Interview' (독점 인터뷰).

The Korean word 독점 (獨占 - Dok-jeom) is a sophisticated noun that translates primarily to 'monopoly' or 'exclusive possession.' At its linguistic core, it is composed of two Hanja characters: 獨 (독) meaning 'alone' or 'single,' and 占 (점) meaning 'to occupy' or 'to take possession of.' Together, they describe a state where one entity—be it a person, a company, or a nation—holds the entirety of a resource, market share, or even someone's attention. While it is frequently heard in the nightly news regarding economic conglomerates and fair trade commissions, its application extends far beyond the boardroom into personal relationships and social dynamics.

Economic Context: In business, it refers to a market structure where a single seller dominates the supply of a good or service. This is often discussed in the context of '독점 금지법' (Antitrust Law) to prevent unfair pricing and encourage competition.
Social Context: In social settings, it can describe someone 'monopolizing' a conversation (대화 독점) or a child refusing to share toys. It implies an exclusion of others from participating or benefiting.
Media Context: Journalists use '독점 인터뷰' (exclusive interview) or '독점 보도' (exclusive report) to signify that they are the only outlet with specific information.

그 회사는 시장을 독점하여 가격을 마음대로 올렸다. (That company monopolized the market and raised prices at will.)

Understanding '독점' requires recognizing the nuance between 'having something' and 'preventing others from having it.' It is a word of power and control. When a person '독점's a seat, they aren't just sitting; they are ensuring no one else can. In the Korean corporate landscape, the word is often associated with 'Chaebols' (large family-owned conglomerates) and the historical development of the Korean economy, where certain industries were intentionally granted exclusive rights to foster rapid growth. However, in modern democratic Korea, the term often carries a negative connotation of greed and the stifling of innovation. If you hear this word in a K-Drama, it might be a villainous CEO planning to take over an industry, or a jealous lover wanting to '독점' their partner's time.

그는 그녀의 사랑을 독점하고 싶어 했다. (He wanted to monopolize her love.)

Linguistically, '독점' functions as a noun but is almost always turned into a verb by adding '하다' (to do), resulting in '독점하다.' It can also be used as a modifier, '독점적' (monopolistic), to describe actions or statuses. For example, '독점적 지위' refers to a monopolistic position in a market. When you use this word, you are signaling a high level of vocabulary, moving beyond simple words like '혼자' (alone) or '가져가다' (to take). It implies a systemic or intentional exclusion. Whether you are analyzing the semiconductor industry or complaining about a friend who won't stop talking, '독점' provides the precise weight needed to describe the imbalance of possession.

이 기술은 우리 회사가 독점적으로 소유하고 있습니다. (This technology is exclusively owned by our company.)

Legal Nuance: In Korean law, '독점' is often discussed alongside '과점' (oligopoly), where a few companies control the market. The combined term '독과점' is used to describe these restrictive market practices collectively.

Using 독점 correctly requires understanding its grammatical flexibility. As a noun, it serves as the subject or object of a sentence, but its most common form is the verbalized 독점하다. Because it involves an object (the thing being monopolized), it is a transitive verb that takes the object marker ~을/를. This section explores the various syntactic structures where '독점' appears, ranging from simple declarations to complex economic analyses.

Transitive Verb Construction: [Entity] + [Object] + 을/를 + 독점하다. Example: '대기업이 시장을 독점하고 있다' (Large corporations are monopolizing the market).
Adjectival Modifier: 독점적 + [Noun]. Example: '독점적 권리' (Monopolistic/Exclusive rights). This is used to describe the nature of a right or a position.
Compound Nouns: 독점 + [Noun]. Example: '독점 판매' (Exclusive sales), '독점 계약' (Exclusive contract).

그 잡지는 유명 배우와의 독점 인터뷰를 실었다. (That magazine published an exclusive interview with a famous actor.)

In formal writing, such as business reports or academic papers, '독점' is used to describe structural issues. For instance, you might write about '정보의 독점' (monopoly of information), which refers to a situation where only a few people have access to critical data. This is often cited as a cause of social inequality. In a more casual or psychological context, one might speak of '애정 독점' (monopolizing affection), often used when describing a sibling's jealousy towards a new baby. The versatility of the word allows it to bridge the gap between hard science/economics and soft human emotions.

데이터의 독점은 민주주의에 위협이 될 수 있다. (The monopoly of data can be a threat to democracy.)

When constructing sentences, pay attention to the particles. If '독점' is the subject, use '독점이'. If it is the object, use '독점을'. If it is part of a compound noun, no particle is needed between the words. For example, '독점 규제' (monopoly regulation). In Korean news headlines, you will often see '독점' followed by '논란' (controversy), as in '공연 티켓 독점 논란' (Controversy over the monopoly of concert tickets). This specific collocation is very common when discussing ticket bots or unfair distribution practices.

그는 마이크를 독점하고 한 시간 동안 혼자 이야기했다. (He monopolized the microphone and talked by himself for an hour.)

To sound more natural, remember that '독점' is a heavy word. Don't use it for trivial things like taking the last piece of kimchi (unless you are being dramatic or humorous). Use '혼자 다 먹다' for that. Reserve '독점' for situations where there is a sense of 'exclusive rights' or a 'systemic takeover.' For example, '중계권 독점' (monopoly of broadcasting rights) is a perfect use case when one TV station is the only one allowed to show the World Cup. This precision will help you sound like a native speaker who understands the weight of their words.

If you are living in Korea or consuming Korean media, you will encounter 독점 in several specific environments. It is not a word usually shouted in a busy market, but rather one discussed in quiet offices, broadcasted on news channels, or analyzed in university lecture halls. Understanding these contexts will help you recognize the word's 'flavor'—which is often one of authority, exclusivity, or sometimes, unfairness.

The Evening News (뉴스): This is the most frequent place to hear '독점.' News anchors will report on '독점 금지법 위반' (Violation of Antitrust Laws) or '대기업의 시장 독점' (Market monopoly by large corporations). It's a staple of the economic section.
Entertainment News (연예 뉴스): Whenever a celebrity has a big scandal or a wedding, a certain media outlet might claim a '독점 공개' (exclusive reveal) or '독점 포착' (exclusive capture of a moment). It implies they have the 'scoop.'
Sports Broadcasting (스포츠 중계): The phrase '독점 중계' (exclusive broadcast) is used when one channel has the sole rights to air an event like the Olympics or a major baseball game.

이번 올림픽은 SBS에서 독점 중계합니다. (This Olympics will be exclusively broadcast by SBS.)

In the business world, you will hear it during contract negotiations. If a company wants to be the only provider of a certain part to a manufacturer, they will ask for '독점 공급권' (exclusive supply rights). In startups, founders often talk about '기술 독점' (technology monopoly) as a 'moat' to protect their business from competitors. Here, the word is often positive, signifying a competitive advantage that others cannot easily replicate.

In everyday life, you might hear it in a more metaphorical sense. A parent might say to their child, '동생이랑 같이 놀아야지, 장난감을 독점하면 안 돼' (You should play with your younger sibling; you shouldn't monopolize the toys). Or in a romantic context, a friend might tease another by saying, '너 혼자 그 사람을 독점하려고 하지 마' (Don't try to keep that person all to yourself). In these cases, it's used to point out selfishness or a lack of sharing. It's also common in the phrase '인기 독점' (monopolizing popularity), used when one person in a group is getting all the attention and praise.

그 신인 배우는 올해의 신인상을 독점했다. (That rookie actor swept [monopolized] all the rookie of the year awards.)

Finally, in the digital age, '독점' is used for platform exclusivity. Netflix or Disney+ might have '독점 스트리밍' (exclusive streaming) for a particular show. If you see '독점' on a poster or a thumbnail, it means you can't find that content anywhere else. This marketing use of the word is perhaps the most common way younger generations encounter it today. It creates a sense of FOMO (Fear Of Missing Out) and highlights the value of the platform's library.

While 독점 is a powerful word, it is often misused by learners who confuse it with similar concepts of 'oneness' or 'selfishness.' Because Korean has many words derived from the Hanja 獨 (독 - alone), it's easy to pick the wrong one. This section highlights the most frequent errors and how to avoid them to ensure your Korean sounds precise and natural.

Confusing '독점' with '단독': '단독' (Dan-dok) means 'solo' or 'independent.' If you go on a trip alone, it's '단독 여행.' If you 'monopolize' the trip, it would mean you prevented anyone else from going to that destination, which is impossible. Use '독점' for resources/rights and '단독' for independent actions.
Confusing '독점' with '욕심': '욕심' (Yok-sim) is 'greed.' While '독점' often stems from greed, '독점' describes the *state* of possession, while '욕심' describes the *desire*. You can't '욕심하다' a market; you '독점하다' a market because of your '욕심'.
Overusing it for small things: Using '독점' for taking the last cookie can sound overly dramatic or like a translation error. Native speakers would use '혼자 다 먹다' or '싹쓸이하다' (to sweep up everything) for casual situations.

Incorrect: 저는 방을 독점으로 써요. (I use the room as a monopoly.)
Correct: 저는 방을 혼자 써요. (I use the room alone.)

Another common mistake involves the particle usage. Learners sometimes forget that '독점' is a noun and '독점하다' is the verb. Saying '시장이 독점이에요' (The market is a monopoly) is grammatically okay but less common than '시장이 독점화되었어요' (The market has become monopolized) or '특정 기업이 시장을 독점하고 있어요' (A specific company is monopolizing the market). The latter sounds much more professional and is the standard way to express the idea in business Korean.

Lastly, be careful with the word '독점적' (monopolistic). While it looks like an adjective, in Korean, it often functions as an adverbial noun. You should say '독점적으로 운영하다' (to operate exclusively/monopolistically) rather than just '독점적 운영하다.' Missing the '으로' can make the sentence feel clipped and unnatural. By paying attention to these small details, you can avoid the 'uncanny valley' of Korean where your words are technically correct but contextually awkward.

그 회사는 기술을 독점적으로 보유하고 있다. (The company exclusively possesses the technology.)

To truly master 독점, you must know its neighbors. In the landscape of 'ownership' and 'exclusivity,' several words offer different shades of meaning. Choosing the right one depends on whether you are talking about business, personal property, or social behavior. Here is a breakdown of the most common alternatives and how they differ from '독점'.

과점 (Oligopoly): While '독점' is one entity, '과점' (寡占) is a few entities. In Korea, the mobile carrier market (SKT, KT, LG U+) is often described as a '과점 시장' because three companies dominate it together.
전유 (Exclusive Possession): '전유' (專有) is very similar to '독점' but is often used for abstract things like '특권' (privilege) or '지식' (knowledge). '독점' feels more economic, while '전유' feels more social or philosophical.
장악 (Grip/Seizure): '장악' (掌握) means to hold something firmly in one's hand. It is more aggressive than '독점.' You '장악' power or '장악' a situation. '독점' is the state; '장악' is the act of taking control.

시장은 소수 기업에 의해 과점되어 있다. (The market is oligopolized by a few companies.)

When you want to express 'exclusivity' in a positive, high-end way, '독점' is usually too harsh. Instead, use '단독' (standalone) or '전용' (for exclusive use). For example, a 'VIP 전용 라운지' (VIP exclusive lounge) sounds welcoming and prestigious, whereas a 'VIP 독점 라운지' might sound like the VIPs are unfairly hogging the space. This subtle difference is key for business communication and marketing.

In the context of 'sweeping' or 'taking everything,' you might hear the slangier '싹쓸이' (Ssaksseuri). This is often used in sports or awards when someone wins everything. '그 선수가 금메달을 싹쓸이했다' (That athlete swept the gold medals). While '독점' could be used there too, '싹쓸이' is much more common in casual conversation and sports headlines. It carries a sense of excitement and total dominance that the more clinical '독점' lacks.

이 공원은 시민 모두의 것이지, 특정인의 전유물이 아니다. (This park belongs to all citizens, it is not the exclusive property of a specific person.)

Finally, consider '매점매석' (cornering the market/hoarding). This is a specific type of '독점' where someone buys up all of a product (like masks during a pandemic) to drive up the price. This is a criminal act and is a much more specific, negative term than the general '독점.' Knowing these distinctions allows you to choose the word that perfectly fits the legal, social, or emotional weight of the situation you are describing.

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

The character 占 (점) is also the same character used for 'fortune telling' (점치다). Historically, taking possession of a resource was sometimes seen as a fate or a sign from the heavens.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /tɔk̚.t͈jʌm/

US /tɔk̚.t͈jʌm/

The stress is slightly more on the second syllable 'jeom' due to the tensification.

Rhymes With

학점 (hak-jeom - credit/grade) 단점 (dan-jeom - weakness) 장점 (jang-jeom - strength) 득점 (deuk-jeom - scoring) 관점 (gwan-jeom - viewpoint) 초점 (cho-jeom - focus) 지점 (ji-jeom - branch/point) 정점 (jeong-jeom - peak)

Common Errors

Pronouncing 'jeom' as a soft 'j' instead of a tense 'jj'.
Releasing the 'k' in 'dok' too clearly like 'dokeu'.
Confusing the vowel 'eo' (ㅓ) with 'o' (ㅗ).
Making the 'd' sound too voiced like an English 'd'.
Pronouncing 'm' as 'n' at the end.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 4/5

Common in news and business texts, requires understanding of Hanja-based vocabulary.

Writing 4/5

Requires correct usage of transitive verb structures and particles.

Speaking 3/5

Pronunciation is straightforward but requires the tense 'jj' sound.

Listening 3/5

Often heard in formal broadcasts; easy to identify once learned.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

혼자 가지다 시장 회사 권리

Learn Next

과점 경쟁 공정거래 특허 유통

Advanced

매점매석 담합 진입장벽 카르텔 지배력

Grammar to Know

Transitive Verbs with ~을/를

시장을(object) 독점하다(verb).

Noun + 하다 to form verbs

독점 (noun) -> 독점하다 (verb).

Adverbial form ~적으로

독점적으로 (monopolistically).

Passive form ~되다

독점되다 (to be monopolized).

Compound Noun formation

독점 + 가격 = 독점가격 (monopoly price).

Examples by Level

그는 장난감을 독점했어요.

He monopolized the toys.

독점 + 했어요 (past tense of 'to do').

이 사과를 독점하지 마세요.

Don't monopolize these apples.

~하지 마세요 (Don't do...).

혼자서 독점하면 안 돼요.

You shouldn't monopolize it alone.

~하면 안 돼요 (You must not...).

동생이랑 독점하지 말고 같이 놀아.

Don't monopolize, play together with your sibling.

~하지 말고 (Don't do X, but...).

그는 인기를 독점해요.

He monopolizes the popularity.

인기 (popularity) + 를 (object marker).

우리는 독점 판매를 해요.

We do exclusive sales.

독점 판매 (compound noun).

엄마 사랑을 독점하고 싶어.

I want to monopolize Mom's love.

~하고 싶어 (I want to...).

이 자리는 제가 독점했어요.

I monopolized this seat.

제 (I - polite) + 가 (subject marker).

이 가게는 이 빵을 독점 판매해요.

This store exclusively sells this bread.

독점 판매 (Exclusive sale).

뉴스에서 독점 보도를 했어요.

The news did an exclusive report.

보도 (report).

그 회사는 시장 독점을 노리고 있다.

That company is aiming for a market monopoly.

노리고 있다 (is aiming for).

친구의 관심을 독점하고 싶나요?

Do you want to monopolize your friend's attention?

~고 싶나요? (Do you want to...?).

이 기술은 우리만 독점할 수 있어요.

Only we can monopolize this technology.

ㄹ 수 있어요 (can).

그 배우는 독점 인터뷰를 거절했다.

That actor rejected the exclusive interview.

거절했다 (rejected).

마이크를 독점하지 말고 넘겨주세요.

Don't monopolize the microphone, please pass it.

넘겨주세요 (please pass/hand over).

공원의 벤치를 독점하는 것은 무례해요.

Monopolizing a park bench is rude.

~하는 것 (the act of doing).

대기업이 시장을 독점하면 가격이 올라갑니다.

If big companies monopolize the market, prices go up.

~하면 (if).

그는 회의 시간을 혼자 독점해 버렸다.

He ended up monopolizing the meeting time all by himself.

~해 버렸다 (ended up doing/completely did).

정부가 전기를 독점적으로 공급합니다.

The government exclusively supplies electricity.

독점적으로 (exclusively/monopolistically).

이 서비스는 우리 플랫폼에서만 독점 제공됩니다.

This service is provided exclusively only on our platform.

제공됩니다 (is provided - passive).

정보의 독점은 사회적 불평등을 낳는다.

Monopoly of information gives birth to social inequality.

낳는다 (gives birth to/leads to).

그 잡지는 독점 기사를 통해 판매량을 늘렸다.

That magazine increased its sales through exclusive articles.

통해 (through).

누구도 진리를 독점할 수는 없다.

No one can monopolize the truth.

누구도 ~ 수 없다 (no one can).

그녀는 남편의 시간을 독점하려고 노력했다.

She tried to monopolize her husband's time.

려고 노력했다 (tried to...).

독점 금지법은 공정한 경쟁을 위해 필요합니다.

Antitrust laws are necessary for fair competition.

독점 금지법 (Antitrust law/Monopoly prohibition law).

특정 업체에 대한 독점 특혜 논란이 일고 있다.

A controversy over exclusive favors for a specific company is arising.

논란이 일고 있다 (controversy is arising).

그는 업계에서 독점적인 지위를 확보했다.

He secured a monopolistic position in the industry.

지위 (position/status).

방송사는 월드컵 중계권을 독점 계약했다.

The broadcaster signed an exclusive contract for World Cup rights.

중계권 (broadcasting rights).

자본의 독점은 중소기업의 성장을 방해한다.

The monopoly of capital hinders the growth of small businesses.

방해한다 (hinders/interferes).

그는 자기 의견만 옳다며 대화를 독점했다.

He monopolized the conversation, claiming only his opinion was right.

며 (while saying/claiming).

이 신약은 특정 제약사가 독점 생산한다.

This new drug is exclusively produced by a specific pharmaceutical company.

생산한다 (produces).

데이터 독점을 방지하기 위한 새로운 규제가 발표되었다.

New regulations to prevent data monopoly were announced.

방지하기 위한 (for the purpose of preventing).

플랫폼 기업들의 시장 독점력이 갈수록 비대해지고 있다.

The market monopoly power of platform companies is becoming increasingly bloated.

비대해지다 (to become bloated/enlarged).

천연 독점 산업은 국가의 엄격한 관리를 받아야 한다.

Natural monopoly industries must be strictly managed by the state.

천연 독점 (Natural monopoly).

그 정치인은 권력을 독점하기 위해 헌법을 개정했다.

The politician revised the constitution to monopolize power.

개정했다 (revised/amended).

지식의 독점은 인류의 발전을 저해하는 요소가 될 수 있다.

The monopoly of knowledge can be a factor that hinders human progress.

저해하다 (to hinder/impede).

해당 기업은 독과점 규제 위반으로 막대한 과징금을 물게 되었다.

The company was forced to pay a huge fine for violating monopoly and oligopoly regulations.

과징금을 물다 (to pay a fine/penalty).

문화적 독점은 다양성을 해치고 창의성을 말살한다.

Cultural monopoly harms diversity and obliterates creativity.

말살하다 (to obliterate/annihilate).

그 학자는 특정 학설이 학계를 독점하는 것에 우려를 표했다.

The scholar expressed concern about a specific theory monopolizing the academic world.

우려를 표했다 (expressed concern).

특허권은 일정 기간 동안 기술의 독점적 사용을 보장한다.

Patents guarantee the exclusive use of technology for a certain period.

보장한다 (guarantees).

시장 지배적 사업자의 독점적 지위 남용은 엄단해야 할 사회악이다.

The abuse of a monopolistic position by a market-dominant player is a social evil that must be strictly punished.

엄단하다 (to punish strictly).

디지털 경제 체제하에서 데이터 독점은 새로운 형태의 진입 장벽을 형성한다.

Under the digital economic system, data monopoly forms a new type of entry barrier.

진입 장벽 (entry barrier).

그 작가는 언어의 독점이 어떻게 사고의 자유를 억압하는지 묘사했다.

The author depicted how the monopoly of language oppresses the freedom of thought.

묘사했다 (depicted/described).

효율성의 논리로 정당화되는 독점은 종종 소비자 후생을 저해하는 결과를 초래한다.

Monopoly justified by the logic of efficiency often results in hindering consumer welfare.

초래하다 (to cause/bring about).

수직적 통합을 통한 시장 독점은 경쟁 질서를 근본적으로 왜곡할 위험이 있다.

Market monopoly through vertical integration risks fundamentally distorting the order of competition.

왜곡하다 (to distort).

역사적으로 소금이나 철과 같은 필수재의 국가 독점은 재정 확보의 주요 수단이었다.

Historically, state monopoly of essential goods such as salt or iron was a major means of securing finances.

필수재 (essential goods).

알고리즘에 의한 정보 독점은 확증 편향을 심화시키고 공론장을 위축시킨다.

Information monopoly by algorithms deepens confirmation bias and shrinks the public sphere.

위축시키다 (to shrink/wither).

그 철학자는 자아의 독점적 욕망이 타자와의 관계를 어떻게 파괴하는지 분석했다.

The philosopher analyzed how the monopolistic desire of the ego destroys relationships with others.

타자 (the 'other' in philosophy).

Synonyms

전매 장악 전유 독차지

Antonyms

경쟁 공유 분할

Common Collocations

시장을 독점하다

독점 금지법

독점 인터뷰

독점적 지위

독점 공급

대화 독점

Common Phrases

독점 공개

— Exclusively revealed for the first time.

신곡의 뮤직비디오를 독점 공개합니다.

독점 보도

— A report that only one news outlet has.

ABC 뉴스의 독점 보도입니다.

독점 자본

— Capital held by a monopoly.

독점 자본의 횡포를 막아야 한다.

독점 체제

— A system dominated by one entity.

시장의 독점 체제가 무너졌다.

독점권

— The right to have a monopoly.

그는 판매 독점권을 얻었다.

독점욕

— The desire to possess something exclusively (often in love).

그녀는 독점욕이 강한 편이다.

독점 상품

— A product sold only by one place.

이것은 우리 백화점 독점 상품입니다.

독점 규제

— Regulating a monopoly.

정부는 독점 규제를 강화했다.

독점 판매점

— An exclusive dealership.

이곳은 해당 브랜드의 독점 판매점이다.

독점 행사

— An event held exclusively for a certain group.

회원들을 위한 독점 행사입니다.

Often Confused With

독점 vs 단독

Means 'solo' or 'alone'. Use for one person doing something, not necessarily excluding others from a market.

독점 vs 전유

Means 'exclusive possession'. More common for abstract things like 'privilege' or 'knowledge'.

독점 vs 욕심

Means 'greed'. It is the feeling/desire, while '독점' is the action/state.

Idioms & Expressions

"독불장군"

— Someone who acts alone and ignores others' opinions.

그는 독불장군처럼 시장을 독점하려 한다.

Common

"다 된 밥에 재 뿌리기"

— To spoil something that is almost finished (often when someone tries to monopolize the credit).

그는 다 된 프로젝트를 독점하려다 망쳤다.

Common

"욕심이 끝이 없다"

— Greed has no end (often said of monopolists).

그 기업의 독점을 보니 욕심이 끝이 없다.

Common

"제 논에 물 대기"

— To act only in one's own interest (like redirecting all water to one's own field).

그는 독점 계약으로 제 논에 물 대기를 하고 있다.

Proverb

"우물 안 개구리"

— A frog in a well (someone who thinks they are the best because they monopolize a small area).

작은 시장을 독점한다고 자만하는 것은 우물 안 개구리다.

Proverb

"배보다 배꼽이 더 크다"

— The belly button is bigger than the belly (when the cost of maintaining a monopoly is higher than the profit).

독점권을 유지하는 비용이 더 커서 배보다 배꼽이 더 크다.

Common

"산 넘어 산"

— Mountain after mountain (the difficulties of breaking a monopoly).

독점 구조를 깨는 것은 산 넘어 산이다.

Common

"그림의 떡"

— A rice cake in a picture (something you can't have because someone else monopolizes it).

그 기술은 독점되어 우리에게는 그림의 떡이다.

Common

"밑 빠진 독에 물 붓기"

— Pouring water into a bottomless pot (trying to compete with a monopoly without enough resources).

그 거대 기업의 독점에 대항하는 것은 밑 빠진 독에 물 붓기다.

Common

"꿩 먹고 알 먹고"

— Eating the pheasant and its eggs (monopolizing all benefits of a deal).

그는 독점 계약으로 꿩 먹고 알 먹고 했다.

Common

Easily Confused

독점 vs 독점 (Monopoly)

Sounds like other 'Dok' words.

'Dok' means alone, 'Jeom' means occupy. It's about taking over a market or resource.

시장을 독점하다.

독점 vs 과점 (Oligopoly)

Both relate to market control.

'Dok' is ONE entity; 'Gwa' is A FEW entities.

통신 시장은 3사의 과점 체제다.

독점 vs 매점 (Hoarding)

Both involve taking everything.

'Maejeom' is specifically buying up goods to manipulate price; 'Dokjeom' is the general state of monopoly.

마스크 매점매석 금지.

독점 vs 단독 (Solo)

Both involve being alone.

'Dandok' is neutral and refers to a single actor; 'Dokjeom' implies exclusion of others.

단독 공연 (Solo concert).

독점 vs 전매 (Monopoly Sale)

Very similar meanings.

'Jeonmae' is specifically about selling rights, often government-granted.

인삼 전매권.

Sentence Patterns

N을/를 독점해요

장난감을 독점해요.

N이/가 시장을 독점하고 있다

그 회사가 시장을 독점하고 있다.

독점 N

독점 인터뷰를 봤어요.

N의 독점적 지위

그 기업의 독점적 지위가 흔들린다.

N을/를 독점적으로 공급하다

약품을 독점적으로 공급하다.

독점 금지법 위반으로 N

독점 금지법 위반으로 조사를 받다.

N에 의한 정보 독점

정부에 의한 정보 독점이 심각하다.

N의 독점적 소유권 행사는...

지식의 독점적 소유권 행사는 공익에 반한다.

Word Family

Nouns

독점자 (monopolist)

독점권 (monopoly rights)

독점력 (monopoly power)

독점체 (monopoly entity)

Verbs

독점하다 (to monopolize)

독점되다 (to be monopolized)

Adjectives

독점적 (monopolistic)

과점 (oligopoly)

독과점 (monopoly and oligopoly)

경쟁 (competition)

배타적 (exclusive)

시장 (market)

How to Use It

frequency

High in news, business, and formal education; Medium in daily conversation.

Common Mistakes

저는 방을 독점해요. → 저는 방을 혼자 써요.
Using '독점' for simply using a room alone sounds too formal and aggressive.
시장이 독점하고 있어요. → 시장이 독점되어 있어요.
The market is the *thing* being monopolized, so use the passive '되다'.
독점 인터뷰를 했어요 (by the celebrity). → 단독 인터뷰를 했어요.
A celebrity 'gives' a solo interview (단독), while the media 'has' the monopoly (독점).
독점의 욕심. → 독점욕.
In Korean, 'desire for monopoly' is usually the compound word '독점욕'.
그는 사탕을 독점적으로 먹었다. → 그는 사탕을 혼자 다 먹었다.
'독점적으로' is too technical for eating candy.

Tips

Business Writing

When writing a business plan, use '독점적 경쟁 우위' to describe your unique selling point.

Social Etiquette

Avoid '독점'ing the talk time in a Korean 'hoesik' (company dinner); let the seniors speak first.

Particle Check

Remember: '시장을 독점하다' (transitive) but '시장이 독점되다' (passive).

Hanja Power

Learning 'Dok' (alone) helps you learn 'Dok-sin' (single person) and 'Dok-chul' (stand out).

News Keywords

If you hear '독점' on the news, the next word is often '규제' (regulation) or '논란' (controversy).

Natural Flow

In casual settings, use '혼자 다 해먹다' instead of '독점하다' for a more native feel.

Streaming Apps

Look for the label '독점' on apps like Wavve or Tving to find exclusive Korean content.

Contracts

Always check for '독점 공급' clauses in business contracts to ensure you aren't restricted.

Visual Cue

Visualize the 'Monopoly' board game man wearing a Korean 'Gat' (hat).

Economics Exam

Know the difference between '독점' and '과점' for TOPIK II level 5-6 reading passages.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Imagine a 'DOK' (dock) where only one ship is allowed to 'JEOM' (jump) and park. It's a 'DOK-JEOM' (monopoly) of the pier.

Visual Association

A giant octopus (the company) wrapping all its tentacles around a single globe (the market), leaving no room for others.

Word Web

Market Power Alone Exclusive Antitrust Chaebol Price Control

Challenge

Try to find one news article today in Korean that uses the word '독점' and write down the context (e.g., business, sports, or entertainment).

Word Origin

Derived from Sino-Korean (Hanja). 獨 (독) means 'alone, single, solitary.' 占 (점) means 'to occupy, to take, to divine.' It entered the Korean language through classical Chinese texts where it described the exclusive possession of land or resources.

Original meaning: To occupy a space or resource alone.

Sino-Korean

Cultural Context

Avoid using '독점' to describe nationalized services like healthcare in a negative way, as it can sound politically charged.

In the US and UK, 'Monopoly' is also the name of a famous board game. In Korea, the game is called 'Blue Marble' (부루마불), but the concept of '독점' remains the same.

Monopoly Regulation and Fair Trade Act (Korea) Sherman Antitrust Act (US) Exclusive interviews in 'Entertainment Weekly' style shows.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Business News

독점 금지법 위반
시장 독점력
독점적 지위 남용
기업 결합

Legal Documents

독점적 권리 부여
독점 계약 체결
배타적 독점권
법적 규제

Social Situations

대화 독점 금지
관심 독점
장난감 독점
시간 독점

Media/Journalism

독점 보도
독점 인터뷰
독점 공개
중계권 독점

Academic Economics

자연 독점
독점 가격 형성
소비자 후생 감소
시장 실패

Conversation Starters

"어떤 회사가 시장을 독점하는 것이 경제에 좋다고 생각하세요?"

"친구들 사이에서 대화를 독점하는 사람을 보면 어떻게 하시나요?"

"한국의 재벌 구조와 시장 독점에 대해 들어본 적이 있나요?"

"넷플릭스의 독점 콘텐츠 중에서 가장 좋아하는 것은 무엇인가요?"

"만약 당신이 어떤 기술을 독점할 수 있다면, 무엇을 선택하시겠습니까?"

Journal Prompts

오늘 내가 무언가를 독점하려고 했던 순간이 있었는지 생각하며 써보세요.

정부가 특정 산업의 독점을 규제해야 하는 이유에 대해 당신의 의견을 적어보세요.

정보의 독점이 우리 사회에 미치는 긍정적, 부정적 영향에 대해 논해 보세요.

내가 사랑하는 사람의 시간을 독점하고 싶은 욕구에 대해 솔직하게 써보세요.

독점 인터뷰를 하고 싶은 유명인이 있다면 누구이며, 어떤 질문을 하고 싶은지 써보세요.

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

'독점' is more formal and used in business or news. '독차지' is more native Korean (pure Korean) and used in daily life, like 'taking all the love' or 'taking all the food'.

No, use '혼자' or '단독' for being alone. '독점' is only used when someone is taking *something* (a resource, a market, attention) for themselves and preventing others from having it.

It is '독점 금지법' (Dok-jeom Geum-ji-beop).

Usually, yes, in economic and social contexts. However, in business, having a '독점적 기술' (monopolistic technology) is seen as a great competitive strength.

It means an 'exclusive interview' that only one news outlet or magazine has the right to publish.

It is 獨 (alone) and 占 (occupy).

Yes, by adding '하다' to make '독점하다'.

The most direct opposite in economics is '경쟁' (competition) or '공유' (sharing).

Yes, large Korean conglomerates (Chaebols) are often discussed in the context of market monopoly in Korea.

Because it follows the 'k' sound in 'dok', the 'j' becomes tense, pronounced like 'jj' as in 'jam'.