협소하다 in 30 Seconds
- 협소하다 means narrow/small in space, range, or perspective.
- Used for cramped rooms, tight roads, limited knowledge, or narrow viewpoints.
- Implies inadequacy or inconvenience due to lack of space or scope.
- Can be physical (room) or metaphorical (knowledge).
The Korean adjective 협소하다 (hyeopssohada) means 'to be narrow' or 'to be small' in terms of space, scope, or even perspective. It's a versatile word that can describe both physical limitations and abstract ones. When referring to physical spaces, it often implies a lack of room, making it feel cramped or confined. Think of a tiny apartment, a narrow alleyway, or a road that's too small for two cars to pass comfortably. However, 협소하다 isn't limited to just physical dimensions. It can also describe a limited range of knowledge, a narrow viewpoint, or a restricted scope of something. For instance, someone might have '협소한 지식' (hyeopssohan jisik), meaning 'narrow knowledge,' or a discussion might be criticized for having a '협소한 관점' (hyeopssohan gwanjeom), meaning 'a narrow perspective.' The feeling conveyed is often one of constraint, inadequacy, or a lack of breadth.
- Physical Space
- This is perhaps the most common usage. It describes places that are physically small or tight, making movement or occupancy difficult. Examples include small rooms, tight parking spaces, narrow hallways, or roads with limited width.
- Abstract Scope/Range
- Beyond physical dimensions, it can describe limitations in abstract concepts. This includes a narrow range of interests, limited knowledge, a restricted viewpoint, or a small scope of influence. It suggests a lack of breadth or variety.
- Perspective/Viewpoint
- When discussing opinions or ideas, 협소하다 can indicate a lack of openness or a limited way of thinking. It implies that someone is not considering all possibilities or is stuck in a narrow frame of reference.
- Resources/Opportunities
- It can also describe situations where resources, opportunities, or even time are limited or insufficient.
이 방은 너무 협소하다.
그의 지식은 매우 협소하다.
우리의 예산으로는 이 사업을 진행하기에 협소하다.
Using 협소하다 correctly involves understanding its nuanced meanings and applying it to appropriate contexts. As an adjective, it typically modifies a noun or is used as a predicate adjective after a verb like 이다 (ida) or 하다 (hada). Remember that Korean adjectives often conjugate before nouns using the -ㄴ/은 ending. For example, '협소한 공간' (hyeopssohan gonggan) means 'a narrow space.' When used predicatively, it often appears as '협소하다' or '협소하게 느껴지다' (hyeopssohage neukkyeojida - to feel narrow/cramped).
- Describing Physical Spaces
- This is the most straightforward use. You can describe rooms, buildings, roads, vehicles, or any physical area that is small or cramped. The implication is often that the space is insufficient for its intended purpose or for comfortable use.
- Describing Abstract Concepts (Knowledge, Viewpoint, Scope)
- Use this when discussing limitations in understanding, perspective, or the range of something. For example, a person might have a '협소한 시각' (hyeopssohan sigak - narrow perspective) on an issue, or a company might have a '협소한 시장' (hyeopssohan sijang - narrow market).
- Describing Resources or Opportunities
- This applies when talking about situations where there isn't enough of something, like time, money, or chances. For example, '기회가 협소하다' (gihoega hyeopssohada - opportunities are limited/narrow).
- Expressing Subjective Feelings
- You can use it to describe how a space feels to you. For example, '이곳은 매우 협소하게 느껴진다' (igoseun maeu hyeopssohage neukkyeojinda - this place feels very cramped).
작은 가게는 협소한 공간 때문에 손님이 불편해합니다.
그는 자신의 경험에만 근거한 협소한 시각을 가지고 있다.
연구 범위가 협소하다는 비판을 받았습니다.
좁은 길을 협소하게 운전해야 했습니다.
You'll encounter 협소하다 in a variety of real-world situations, reflecting its diverse applications. In everyday conversation, it's commonly used to describe living spaces. People might complain about their apartment being 협소하다, especially in densely populated cities like Seoul where space is at a premium. Real estate agents might use it, though perhaps more delicately, to describe smaller properties. In news reports or documentaries, it can be used to discuss urban planning issues, the limitations of infrastructure in certain areas, or even the challenges faced by small businesses operating in confined commercial spaces. For example, a news segment might discuss how 협소한 shop sizes hinder growth. Academically or in formal discussions, 협소하다 is frequently used to critique limited research scopes, narrow theoretical frameworks, or restricted viewpoints in academic papers or debates. You might hear it in a university lecture when a professor is discussing the limitations of a particular study, stating that its '연구 범위가 협소하다' (the research scope is narrow). In business contexts, it can refer to a limited market share, a restricted product line, or a narrow customer base. A company might analyze its '시장 점유율이 협소하다' (market share is narrow). Even in casual discussions about hobbies or interests, someone might admit to having '협소한 취미' (hyeopssohan chwimi - narrow hobbies), meaning they don't have a wide range of interests. The term adds a layer of formality and precision compared to simply saying 'small' or 'limited,' making it suitable for situations where a more descriptive or critical tone is desired.
- Urban Living & Real Estate
- Complaints about small apartments, cramped offices, or tight parking spaces in big cities. Real estate descriptions might subtly use it for smaller units.
- News & Social Commentary
- Discussions on urban development, infrastructure limitations, small business challenges, or social issues related to limited resources.
- Academic & Intellectual Discourse
- Critiques of research scope, theoretical frameworks, limited perspectives in academic papers, lectures, and debates.
- Business & Economics
- Analysis of market size, product diversity, limited opportunities, or narrow customer bases.
- Personal Reflections & Hobbies
- Self-awareness about having limited interests or a narrow focus in personal pursuits.
서울의 좁은 골목길은 차량 통행에 협소하다.
그의 주장은 지나치게 협소한 근거 위에 세워졌다.
이 연구는 협소한 범위 때문에 일반화하기 어렵다.
Learners of Korean might make a few common mistakes when using 협소하다. One frequent error is confusing it with 좁다 (jopda), which also means 'narrow' or 'small.' While there's overlap, 협소하다 often implies a more significant lack of space or scope, sometimes to the point of being inconvenient or inadequate. Using 협소하다 for something that is just slightly small might sound overly dramatic or critical. For example, saying a large room is 협소하다 would be incorrect. Conversely, using 좁다 when a stronger sense of inadequacy is intended might not fully convey the meaning. Another mistake is incorrect grammatical conjugation. Remember that when 협소하다 modifies a noun, it becomes 협소한. Forgetting the -ㄴ ending is a common oversight. For instance, saying '협소 공간' instead of '협소한 공간' would be grammatically incorrect. Using the adverbial form 협소하게 (hyeopssohage) incorrectly is also possible. It should be used to describe how an action is performed or how something appears, not as a direct adjective for a noun. For example, saying '협소하게 방' (hyeopssohage bang) is wrong; it should be '협소한 방' (hyeopssohan bang). Finally, applying 협소하다 to abstract concepts without sufficient context can be confusing. While it *can* be used for viewpoints or knowledge, it's important to ensure the context makes this metaphorical usage clear. Overusing it metaphorically can make speech sound unnatural or overly academic. For instance, simply saying '그의 생각은 협소하다' (his thoughts are narrow) is correct, but if the context isn't clear, it might be misunderstood.
- Confusing with 좁다 (jopda)
- 협소하다 implies a more pronounced lack of space or scope, often suggesting inadequacy or inconvenience, whereas 좁다 is a more general term for narrowness or smallness. Using 협소하다 for minor smallness can sound exaggerated.
- Incorrect Adjective Form
- Forgetting to add the -ㄴ ending when modifying a noun. It must be 협소한 (hyeopssohan) before a noun, not just 협소.
- Misusing the Adverbial Form
- Using 협소하게 (hyeopssohage) to modify a noun directly. It should be used to describe an action or state, e.g., '협소하게 느껴지다' (to feel cramped).
- Overusing Metaphorical Meanings
- Applying 협소하다 to abstract concepts without clear context can lead to ambiguity or sound overly formal or critical in casual conversation.
Mistake: 이 방은 좁다. (Correct if just generally small, but 협소하다 if uncomfortably so)
Correct: 이 방은 매우 협소하다. (This room is very cramped/inadequately small.)
Mistake: 우리는 협소 공간에 살고 있다. (Grammatically incorrect)
Correct: 우리는 협소한 공간에 살고 있다. (We are living in a cramped space.)
Mistake: 그들은 협소하게 생각한다. (Incorrect adverb usage)
Correct: 그들은 협소한 생각(관점)을 가지고 있다. (They have narrow thoughts/perspectives.)
Understanding words similar to 협소하다 will help you choose the most precise term for your needs. The most common alternative is 좁다 (jopda). As mentioned, 좁다 is a general term for 'narrow' or 'small' and can apply to both physical dimensions and abstract concepts. However, 협소하다 often carries a stronger connotation of inadequacy, inconvenience, or a lack of sufficient space or scope. If a room is just a bit narrow, 좁다 is sufficient. If it's so small that it's difficult to move around or use effectively, 협소하다 is more appropriate. Another related term is 작다 (jakda), meaning 'small.' While 작다 can overlap with 좁다 and 협소하다 in describing physical size, it doesn't inherently imply narrowness or a lack of scope in the same way. A small box might be 작다, but not necessarily 협소하다 unless its smallness makes it functionally limited. For abstract concepts, 제한적이다 (jehanjeogida), meaning 'to be limited,' is a good alternative. If someone has a '협소한 지식' (narrow knowledge), you could also say they have '제한적인 지식' (limited knowledge). 제한적이다 focuses more on the boundary or restriction itself, while 협소하다 emphasizes the smallness or narrowness resulting from those limitations. In terms of perspective, 편협하다 (pyeonhyeopada) is a strong synonym for a narrow or prejudiced viewpoint. It specifically refers to a closed-minded or intolerant way of thinking, which is a specific type of 'narrow perspective' that 협소하다 can encompass. Let's compare them:
- 좁다 (jopda)
- Meaning: Narrow, small (general).
Usage: Can be used for physical spaces (e.g., 좁은 길 - narrow road) and abstract concepts (e.g., 좁은 마음 - narrow heart/mind).
Nuance: More common and less formal than 협소하다. Doesn't always imply inadequacy. - 작다 (jakda)
- Meaning: Small (general size).
Usage: Primarily for physical size (e.g., 작은 집 - small house). Can be used metaphorically but less commonly for scope.
Nuance: Focuses on overall size rather than narrowness or a limited range. - 제한적이다 (jehanjeogida)
- Meaning: Limited, restricted.
Usage: Excellent for abstract concepts like knowledge, scope, or opportunities (e.g., 제한적인 기회 - limited opportunities).
Nuance: Emphasizes the existence of boundaries or restrictions. - 편협하다 (pyeonhyeopada)
- Meaning: Narrow-minded, prejudiced, intolerant.
Usage: Specifically for viewpoints, attitudes, or ways of thinking (e.g., 편협한 사고방식 - narrow-minded way of thinking).
Nuance: Carries a negative moral judgment about closed-mindedness.
이 길은 좁다.
이 방은 너무 협소하다.
그의 지식은 제한적이다.
그는 편협한 사고방식을 가지고 있다.
How Formal Is It?
Fun Fact
The Hanja characters 狹 (hyeop) and 小 (so) directly convey the core meaning of being physically confined or limited in scope. This etymology clearly illustrates why the word is used for both physical spaces and abstract limitations, as 'smallness' and 'narrowness' can apply metaphorically.
Pronunciation Guide
- Pronouncing the 'p' as aspirated (like in 'pie'). It should be unaspirated.
- Mismatched vowel sounds, especially the 'o' sound.
- Not aspirating the initial 'h' or the 'h' in 'ha'.
Difficulty Rating
Understanding '협소하다' in reading requires distinguishing between physical and metaphorical uses. Context is key. Recognizing its nuance compared to '좁다' is important for comprehension.
Correctly using '협소하다' in writing involves choosing the right context (physical vs. abstract) and applying the correct grammatical forms (협소한, 협소하게). Avoiding overuse and ensuring it's not confused with '좁다' are crucial.
Speaking fluently with '협소하다' requires confidence in its meaning and usage. Pronunciation and choosing appropriate situations to use it without sounding unnatural are key challenges.
Distinguishing '협소하다' from similar words like '좁다' in spoken Korean depends heavily on the context and intonation. Recognizing the implied negativity or inadequacy is important for full comprehension.
What to Learn Next
Prerequisites
Learn Next
Advanced
Grammar to Know
Adjective + -ㄴ/은/는 + Noun
협소한 공간 (cramped space). The adjective '협소하다' takes the '-ㄴ' ending to modify the noun '공간'.
Adjective + -게 + Verb
방이 협소하게 느껴진다. (The room feels cramped.) '협소하다' functions adverbially with '-게' to modify '느껴진다'.
Noun + 이/가 + Noun + 보다 + Adjective
이 방이 저 방보다 협소하다. (This room is more cramped than that room.) Comparative structure using '-보다'.
Noun + 때문에 + Adjective
공간이 좁기 때문에 협소하다. (It is cramped because the space is narrow.) Expressing cause and effect.
Adjective + -지만 + Clause
이 방은 협소하지만, 아늑하게 꾸몄어요. (This room is cramped, but I decorated it cozily.) Concessive clause using '-지만'.
Examples by Level
이 집은 작아요.
This house is small.
작다 (jakda) - to be small. Basic adjective usage.
길이 좁아요.
The road is narrow.
좁다 (jopda) - to be narrow. Basic adjective usage.
공간이 부족해요.
There is not enough space.
부족하다 (bujokada) - to be insufficient/lack. Used to express lack of space.
옷이 작아요.
The clothes are small.
작다 (jakda) - to be small. Applied to clothing size.
이 의자는 불편해요.
This chair is uncomfortable.
불편하다 (bulpyeonhada) - to be uncomfortable. Often a result of small/narrow spaces.
책상이 작아요.
The desk is small.
작다 (jakda) - to be small. Describing an object's size.
주차 공간이 없어요.
There is no parking space.
없다 (eopda) - to not exist/be absent. Can imply lack of space.
이 방은 너무 작아요.
This room is too small.
작다 (jakda) - to be small. Used with '너무' (neomu - too) for emphasis.
우리 집 거실은 좀 좁아요.
Our living room is a bit narrow.
좁다 (jopda) - to be narrow. Used for rooms. '좀' (jom) softens the statement.
이 차는 뒷좌석이 좁아서 불편해요.
This car's back seat is narrow, so it's uncomfortable.
좁아서 (jobaseo) - because it is narrow. Connects cause and effect.
좁은 골목길을 지나갔어요.
We passed through a narrow alley.
좁은 (jobeun) - adjective form of 좁다. Modifies '골목길' (golmokgil - alley).
그 사람의 생각은 너무 작아요.
That person's way of thinking is too small-minded.
작다 (jakda) - to be small. Used metaphorically for mindset.
이 공간은 사용하기에 너무 작아요.
This space is too small to use.
사용하기에 (sayonghagie) - to use. Expresses the purpose for which the space is too small.
작은 가게라서 물건이 많지 않아요.
Because it's a small shop, there aren't many items.
많지 않아요 (manchi anayo) - not many. Consequence of a small shop.
이 복도는 매우 좁아요.
This hallway is very narrow.
매우 (maeu) - very. Intensifier for 좁다.
그의 취미는 아주 제한적이에요.
His hobbies are very limited.
제한적이다 (jehanjeogida) - to be limited. Used for abstract scope.
이 아파트는 방이 너무 협소해서 불편해요.
This apartment's rooms are too narrow/cramped, so it's uncomfortable.
협소하다 (hyeopssohada) - to be narrow/cramped. Used for living spaces implying discomfort.
그의 지식은 매우 협소한 편이다.
His knowledge tends to be very narrow.
협소한 편이다 (hyeopssohan pyeonida) - tends to be narrow. Softens the statement.
좁은 길에서는 차 두 대가 동시에 지나가기 어렵습니다.
It is difficult for two cars to pass at the same time on a narrow road.
지나가기 어렵습니다 (jinagagi eoryeopseumnida) - difficult to pass. Consequence of a narrow road.
이 연구는 너무 협소한 범위에 국한되었다.
This research was limited to too narrow a scope.
국한되다 (gukhandoeda) - to be limited/confined. Used with scope.
그는 자신의 경험만을 바탕으로 한 협소한 시각을 가지고 있다.
He has a narrow perspective based solely on his own experience.
시각 (sigak) - perspective/viewpoint. '협소한 시각' is a common phrase.
소규모 사업장은 종종 공간이 협소하다는 문제를 겪는다.
Small-scale businesses often face the problem of having cramped space.
문제를 겪는다 (munjereul gyeokneunda) - to face a problem. Contextualizing the issue of cramped space.
우리의 예산으로는 이 프로젝트를 진행하기에 너무 협소합니다.
Our budget is too small to proceed with this project.
예산 (yesan) - budget. '협소하다' applied to financial resources.
그의 의견은 편협하다는 비판을 받았다.
His opinion received criticism for being narrow-minded.
편협하다 (pyeonhyeopada) - to be narrow-minded. A stronger, more critical term for viewpoints.
도시 계획에서 주거 공간의 협소함은 심각한 문제로 대두되고 있다.
The narrowness/cramped nature of residential space is emerging as a serious problem in urban planning.
협소함 (hyeopssoham) - noun form of 협소하다. 'The narrowness/crampedness'. 대두되다 (daedudoeda) - to emerge/arise.
그의 학문적 탐구는 지나치게 협소한 주제에만 집중되어 있다.
His academic inquiry is excessively focused on only a narrow topic.
학문적 탐구 (hakmunjeok tamgu) - academic inquiry. 집중되다 (jipjungdoeda) - to be focused.
이 좁은 도로는 대형 차량의 통행에 매우 비효율적이다.
This narrow road is very inefficient for the passage of large vehicles.
대형 차량 (daehyeong charyang) - large vehicles. 비효율적이다 (bihyoyuljeogida) - to be inefficient.
문화적 이해의 부족은 종종 편협한 시각으로 이어진다.
A lack of cultural understanding often leads to a narrow-minded perspective.
문화적 이해 (munhwajeok ihae) - cultural understanding. 이어지다 (ieojida) - to lead to/continue.
현실적인 제약 때문에 우리의 활동 범위는 상당히 협소할 수밖에 없다.
Due to practical constraints, our scope of activities inevitably has to be quite narrow.
현실적인 제약 (hyeonsiljeogin jeyak) - practical constraints. ~ㄹ 수밖에 없다 (l subakke eopda) - cannot help but/inevitably.
그는 자신의 의견만이 옳다고 믿는 협소한 사고방식을 버려야 한다.
He must abandon his narrow way of thinking that only his opinion is correct.
사고방식 (sagobangsik) - way of thinking/mindset. 버리다 (beorida) - to abandon.
이 공장 설비는 최신 기술을 수용하기에는 너무 협소하게 설계되었다.
This factory equipment was designed too narrowly to accommodate the latest technology.
설비 (seolbi) - equipment/facility. 수용하다 (suyonghada) - to accommodate/accept.
제한된 자원은 우리가 할 수 있는 일의 범위를 협소하게 만들었다.
Limited resources have made the scope of what we can do narrow.
자원 (jawon) - resources. 만들었다 (mandeureotda) - made. '범위를 협소하게 만들다' - to make the scope narrow.
그의 분석은 특정 경제 모델에 지나치게 의존하여 그 범위가 협소하다는 비판을 피할 수 없었다.
His analysis, overly reliant on a specific economic model, could not avoid criticism for its narrow scope.
의존하다 (uijonhada) - to rely on. ~다는 비판을 피할 수 없었다 (~daneun bipaneul pihal su eopseotda) - could not avoid criticism that...
현대 사회는 개인의 자유를 보장하지만, 때로는 사회적 규범이 사고의 폭을 협소하게 만들기도 한다.
Modern society guarantees individual freedom, but sometimes social norms can narrow the breadth of thought.
사고의 폭 (sagoui pok) - breadth of thought. ~게 만들기도 한다 (~ge mandeulgido handa) - also makes it...
이 좁은 공간에서 효율적인 동선을 확보하기 위한 건축 설계는 고도의 기술을 요구한다.
Architectural design to secure efficient movement in this narrow space requires advanced technology.
동선 (dongseon) - movement path/flow. 확보하다 (hwakbohda) - to secure/ensure. 고도의 기술 (godoui gisul) - advanced technology.
역사적 사건에 대한 편협한 해석은 종종 집단 간의 갈등을 심화시킨다.
Narrow interpretations of historical events often deepen conflicts between groups.
해석 (haeseok) - interpretation. 집단 간의 갈등 (jipdan ganui galdeung) - conflict between groups. 심화시키다 (simhwashikida) - to deepen.
새로운 기술의 도입은 기존의 협소한 업무 방식을 근본적으로 변화시킬 잠재력을 지닌다.
The introduction of new technology has the potential to fundamentally change existing narrow work practices.
업무 방식 (eommu bangsik) - work practices. 근본적으로 (geunbonjeogeuro) - fundamentally. 잠재력 (jamjaeryeok) - potential.
그는 예술에 대한 자신의 협소한 이해를 인정하고, 더 넓은 시야를 가지려 노력하고 있다.
He acknowledges his narrow understanding of art and is striving to gain a broader perspective.
이해 (ihae) - understanding. 인정하다 (injeonghada) - to acknowledge. 넓은 시야 (neolbeun siya) - broad perspective/view.
정치적 담론에서 특정 이데올로기에 대한 맹목적인 충성은 사고의 지평을 협소하게 만들 위험이 있다.
Blind loyalty to a specific ideology in political discourse carries the risk of narrowing the horizon of thought.
정치적 담론 (jeongchijeok damnon) - political discourse. 맹목적인 충성 (maengmokjeogin chungseong) - blind loyalty. 지평 (jipyeong) - horizon.
제한된 정보와 협소한 분석 틀은 잘못된 결론으로 이어질 가능성이 높다.
Limited information and a narrow analytical framework are highly likely to lead to incorrect conclusions.
분석 틀 (bunseok teul) - analytical framework. 잘못된 결론 (jalmotdoen gyeollon) - incorrect conclusion.
그의 저작은 당대의 사회적, 문화적 맥락에 대한 협소한 이해를 바탕으로 하고 있어, 후대의 평가에 있어 한계가 드러난다.
His work, based on a narrow understanding of the social and cultural context of his time, reveals limitations in later evaluations.
저작 (jeojak) - work (literary/academic). 맥락 (maengnak) - context. 후대의 평가 (hudaeui pyeongga) - later evaluations. 한계 (hangye) - limitation.
기술 발전이 가속화되면서, 과거의 협소한 사고방식으로는 새로운 문제에 효과적으로 대처하기 어렵게 되었다.
As technological advancement accelerates, it has become difficult to effectively cope with new problems using past narrow ways of thinking.
가속화되다 (gasokhwaedoeda) - to be accelerated. 대처하다 (daecheohada) - to cope with/deal with.
좁은 시장의 한계를 극복하기 위해, 기업은 혁신적인 제품 개발과 함께 새로운 시장 개척에 힘써야 한다.
To overcome the limitations of a narrow market, companies must strive for new market development along with innovative product development.
한계를 극복하다 (hangyereul geukbokhada) - to overcome limitations. 시장 개척 (sijang gaecheok) - market development.
협소한 관점에서 특정 사건을 바라보는 것은 복잡한 현실을 단순화하여 오해를 불러일으킬 소지가 다분하다.
Viewing a specific event from a narrow perspective has a high potential to oversimplify complex realities and cause misunderstandings.
관점 (gwanjeom) - perspective. 단순화하다 (dansunhwahada) - to simplify. 오해 (ohae) - misunderstanding. 소지가 다분하다 (sojiga dabeunhada) - highly likely/has ample possibility.
인간의 인지 능력은 본질적으로 제한적이며, 따라서 세상을 협소하게 인식할 수밖에 없는 근본적인 한계가 존재한다.
Human cognitive abilities are inherently limited, thus there exists a fundamental limitation where we inevitably perceive the world narrowly.
인지 능력 (inji neungnyeok) - cognitive ability. 본질적으로 (bonjiljeogeuro) - inherently. 인식하다 (insikhada) - to perceive.
편협한 민족주의는 종종 타문화에 대한 배척으로 이어지며, 국제 사회의 화합을 저해하는 요인이 된다.
Narrow nationalism often leads to the rejection of other cultures, becoming a factor that hinders harmony in the international community.
민족주의 (minjokjuui) - nationalism. 배척 (baecheok) - rejection/ostracism. 화합 (hwahap) - harmony. 저해하다 (jeohaehada) - to hinder.
그의 논지는 협소한 이론적 틀에 갇혀 있어, 현실의 복잡다단한 양상을 충분히 포괄하지 못한다.
His argument is trapped within a narrow theoretical framework, failing to sufficiently encompass the complex and varied aspects of reality.
논지 (nonji) - argument/thesis. 갇히다 (gachida) - to be trapped. 복잡다단하다 (bokjapdadanhada) - complex and varied. 포괄하다 (pogwalhada) - to encompass/include.
좁은 의미의 성공만을 추구하는 태도는 삶의 풍요로움을 간과하게 만들 수 있다.
An attitude that pursues success only in a narrow sense can lead to overlooking the richness of life.
추구하다 (chuguhada) - to pursue. 풍요로움 (pungyoroum) - richness/abundance. 간과하다 (gangwahada) - to overlook.
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
— To be too narrow/cramped/limited.
이 방은 너무 협소해서 가구가 몇 개 들어가지 않아요. (This room is too cramped, so only a few pieces of furniture fit.)
— To be very narrow/cramped/limited.
그의 지식은 매우 협소해서 깊이 있는 대화를 나누기 어렵습니다. (His knowledge is very narrow, making it difficult to have an in-depth conversation.)
— To be a bit narrow/cramped/limited.
주차 공간이 좀 협소해서 운전하기 힘들었어요. (The parking space was a bit cramped, so it was difficult to drive.)
— To be narrow/cramped/limited compared to ~.
이전 집에 비해 지금 집은 공간이 협소하다. (Compared to the previous house, the current house has cramped space.)
— In a narrow/cramped space.
협소한 공간에서 많은 사람들이 모여 있었다. (Many people were gathered in the cramped space.)
— Narrow thinking.
협소한 생각 때문에 발전이 더디다. (Development is slow due to narrow thinking.)
— Narrow scope.
협소한 범위의 연구로는 큰 성과를 기대하기 어렵다. (It is difficult to expect great results from research with a narrow scope.)
— Narrow vision/perspective.
협소한 시야로 세상을 보면 많은 것을 놓치게 된다. (If you look at the world with a narrow vision, you will miss many things.)
— To feel cramped/narrow.
이 작은 방이 나에게는 너무 협소하게 느껴진다. (This small room feels too cramped to me.)
— To feel the narrowness/crampedness.
비좁은 방에서 협소함을 느꼈다. (I felt the crampedness in the narrow room.)
Often Confused With
While both mean 'narrow' or 'small', '협소하다' often implies a stronger sense of inadequacy, inconvenience, or discomfort due to the lack of space or scope. '좁다' is more general.
'작다' means 'small' in general size. '협소하다' specifically implies narrowness or a lack of breadth, not just overall smallness. A small object might not be '협소하다' unless its size is functionally limiting.
This means 'limited' or 'restricted'. It's a good synonym for abstract uses of '협소하다' (like knowledge or scope), focusing on the boundary rather than the smallness itself.
Idioms & Expressions
— Literally 'passing through a needle's eye'. This idiom describes succeeding in something extremely difficult, often due to severely limited opportunities or space, similar to how one might feel in a '협소한' situation.
그는 수많은 경쟁자들을 제치고 겨우 합격했는데, 마치 바늘구멍 통과하기 같았다.
Informal/Neutral— A small, natural spring. While not directly related to '협소하다', it evokes a sense of smallness and limitedness in a natural setting. It can be used metaphorically to describe a small, but pure source of something.
그의 작은 가게는 동네 사람들에게는 옹달샘 같은 존재였다.
Figurative/Literary— Literally 'all four sides are blocked'. This idiom describes being in a hopeless or inescapable situation, often due to a lack of options or space, which can be a consequence of a '협소한' environment or circumstances.
그는 빚에 쪼들려 사방이 막힌 상황이었다.
Neutral— Literally 'no room to step'. This idiom describes a place that is extremely crowded and has no space, directly relating to the feeling of being in a '협소한' space.
명절 기차역은 발 디딜 틈이 없을 정도로 붐볐다.
Informal/Neutral— A frog in a well. This idiom describes someone with a very limited worldview or perspective, similar to someone with '협소한 시각' or '편협한 사고방식'. They only know their small world and are unaware of the larger reality.
그는 세상 물정 모르고 우물 안 개구리처럼 살고 있다.
Figurative/InformalEasily Confused
Both words describe a lack of space or size.
좁다 is a general term for 'narrow' or 'small'. 협소하다 implies a more significant lack of space or scope, often to the point of being inconvenient, uncomfortable, or inadequate. For example, a narrow road is '좁은 길', but a room that's too small to live in comfortably might be described as '협소하다'.
이 골목은 <strong>좁다</strong>. (This alley is narrow.) vs. 이 방은 너무 <strong>협소하다</strong>. (This room is too cramped/inadequately small.)
Both relate to size.
작다 means 'small' in general size. 협소하다 specifically means 'narrow' or 'cramped', implying a lack of breadth or adequate space. A small desk is '작은 책상', but if it's so narrow that you can't place items comfortably, it might be considered '협소하다'. 협소하다 often carries a negative connotation of insufficiency.
이 집은 <strong>작다</strong>. (This house is small.) vs. 이 집은 너무 <strong>협소하다</strong>. (This house is too cramped/inadequately small.)
Both can describe limited scope or range.
제한적이다 means 'limited' or 'restricted'. It focuses on the existence of boundaries. 협소하다 emphasizes the narrowness or smallness resulting from those limitations, often implying inadequacy. For example, '제한적인 기회' (limited opportunities) is similar to '협소한 기회' (narrow opportunities), but 협소하다 might suggest the opportunities are too few to be practical.
그의 지식은 <strong>제한적이다</strong>. (His knowledge is limited.) vs. 그의 지식은 <strong>협소하다</strong>. (His knowledge is narrow/limited, implying it's not enough.)
Both relate to narrowness, especially in perspective.
편협하다 specifically means 'narrow-minded', 'prejudiced', or 'intolerant'. It carries a strong negative moral judgment about closed-mindedness. 협소하다 is broader and can refer to physical narrowness, limited scope, or a general narrow perspective without necessarily implying prejudice.
그는 <strong>협소한</strong> 관점을 가지고 있다. (He has a narrow perspective.) vs. 그는 <strong>편협한</strong> 사고방식을 가지고 있다. (He has a narrow-minded way of thinking, implying prejudice.)
Both describe a cramped or tight space.
비좁다 is a more informal and often more emphatic term for 'cramped' or 'tightly packed'. It's similar to 협소하다 in conveying discomfort due to lack of space, but it's generally more colloquial and less formal. 협소하다 can be used in more formal or abstract contexts.
지하철이 너무 <strong>비좁다</strong>. (The subway is too cramped.) vs. 이 회의실은 <strong>협소하다</strong>. (This meeting room is cramped/inadequately small.)
Sentence Patterns
Noun + 이/가 + 좀 + 협소하다.
제 방이 좀 <strong>협소해요</strong>. (My room is a bit cramped.)
Noun + 은/는 + 너무 + 협소하다.
이 사무실은 너무 <strong>협소합니다</strong>. (This office is too cramped.)
협소한 + Noun + 때문에 + Consequence.
<strong>협소한</strong> 공간 때문에 불편해요. (It's inconvenient because of the cramped space.)
Noun + 은/는 + 협소한 + Noun + 으로/로 + 여겨지다/간주되다.
그의 주장은 <strong>협소한</strong> 관점으로 여겨진다. (His argument is considered a narrow perspective.)
Noun + 은/는 + 협소하다는 + 비판을 + 받다/받았다.
연구 범위가 <strong>협소하다는</strong> 비판을 받았습니다. (It received criticism for having a narrow scope.)
Noun + 의 + 협소함은 + Problem.
주거 공간의 <strong>협소함은</strong> 심각한 문제입니다. (The crampedness of residential space is a serious problem.)
Noun + 은/는 + 협소한 + Noun + 을/를 + 초래하다/야기하다.
<strong>협소한</strong> 사고방식은 발전을 저해한다. (Narrow ways of thinking hinder development.)
Noun + 은/는 + 협소한 + Noun + 의 + 한계를 + 드러내다.
그의 분석은 <strong>협소한</strong> 이론적 틀의 한계를 드러낸다. (His analysis reveals the limitations of a narrow theoretical framework.)
Word Family
Nouns
Adjectives
Related
How to Use It
Medium
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Using '협소하다' when '좁다' is sufficient.
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Use '협소하다' when the smallness implies inadequacy or discomfort, not just general narrowness.
'협소하다' carries a stronger sense of being uncomfortably or functionally limited due to size. For everyday narrowness, '좁다' is often more appropriate and less intense.
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Forgetting the '-ㄴ' in the adjective form.
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Always use '협소한' before a noun.
Korean adjectives modifying nouns require specific endings. '협소하다' becomes '협소한' when directly preceding a noun (e.g., '협소한 공간').
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Using '협소하게' to modify a noun.
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Use '협소하게' adverbially, or '협소한' adjectivally.
'협소하게' modifies verbs or describes feelings ('협소하게 느껴지다'), while '협소한' modifies nouns ('협소한 방').
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Confusing '협소하다' with '편협하다' for abstract concepts.
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'협소하다' refers to limited scope/knowledge; '편협하다' refers to narrow-mindedness/prejudice.
While both imply narrowness, '편협하다' carries a strong negative judgment about intolerance or prejudice, whereas '협소하다' is more about a lack of breadth or information.
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Overusing '협소하다' in casual conversation.
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Use '좁다' or '작다' for general smallness in informal settings.
'협소하다' can sound overly formal or critical in casual talk if '좁다' or '작다' would suffice. Reserve it for situations where the inadequacy is a key point.
Tips
Distinguish from 좁다
Remember that while 좁다 is a general term for 'narrow', 협소하다 often carries a stronger implication of inadequacy or inconvenience due to the lack of space or scope. Think of it as 'uncomfortably narrow' or 'insufficiently small'.
Adjective and Adverb Forms
Master the forms: '협소한' (hyeopssohan) modifies nouns (e.g., 협소한 공간), and '협소하게' (hyeopssohage) modifies verbs or describes feelings (e.g., 협소하게 느껴지다).
Beyond Physical Space
Don't limit '협소하다' to just rooms and roads. It's very useful for abstract concepts like knowledge, perspectives, or opportunities, signifying a lack of breadth or variety.
Aspirated 'H'
Pay attention to the aspirated 'h' sound at the beginning of '협소하다' and in the '하' syllable. Also, ensure the 'p' sound is unaspirated.
Know Your Opposites
Understanding antonyms like '넓다' (wide/spacious) and '풍부하다' (abundant/rich) helps solidify the meaning of '협소하다' by contrasting it with its opposite concepts.
Build Phrases
Learn common phrases like '협소한 공간', '협소한 지식', and '협소한 시각'. These fixed expressions are frequently used and will help you sound more natural.
Urban Living
In Korea, especially in cities, space is often limited. Understanding this cultural context helps explain why '협소하다' is such a relevant and frequently used term for describing living conditions.
Describe Your Surroundings
Try describing different places and concepts around you using '협소하다' and its related words. This active practice is key to internalizing the vocabulary.
Choose the Right Word
When describing something small or limited, consider if '좁다', '작다', '제한적이다', or '협소하다' fits best based on the degree of inadequacy or the context (physical vs. abstract).
Grammar Check
Be careful not to forget the '-ㄴ' in '협소한' when modifying a noun, and don't use '협소하게' to modify a noun directly. Double-check your sentence structure.
Memorize It
Mnemonic
Imagine a 'hip' (협) person trying to fit into a 'so' (소) small car. They are squished and uncomfortable because the car is '협소하다'. The 'hip' person is trying to be cool but the car's narrowness makes it impossible.
Visual Association
Picture a very tiny apartment with furniture crammed together, leaving almost no walking space. Or imagine trying to read a book with extremely narrow margins, making it hard to see the text clearly.
Word Web
Challenge
Try to describe five different situations in your daily life where you encounter or could use the word '협소하다'. Focus on both physical spaces and abstract concepts.
Word Origin
The word '협소하다' is derived from Chinese characters. '협 (hyeop)' comes from 狹 (narrow, cramped) and '소 (so)' comes from 小 (small). Together, 狹小 (hyeopsso) literally means 'narrow and small'. The verb ending '-하다' is added to form the adjective '협소하다'.
Original meaning: Narrow and small.
Sino-Korean (derived from Chinese characters)Cultural Context
When using '협소하다' to describe physical spaces, be mindful of the context. While it's a common descriptive term, in certain situations, it might sound critical or negative, especially if the listener is sensitive about their living or working conditions. For abstract concepts like knowledge or perspective, it's often used in a critical or analytical manner.
In English-speaking contexts, terms like 'cramped,' 'confined,' 'limited,' 'restricted,' 'narrow,' and 'small' are used. 'Cramped' and 'confined' often carry a similar negative connotation of discomfort due to lack of space as '협소하다' does for physical spaces. 'Limited' and 'restricted' are good translations for abstract uses like scope or knowledge. 'Narrow-minded' is a direct equivalent for the negative connotation of '편협하다'.
Practice in Real Life
Real-World Contexts
Describing one's living space.
- 우리 집은 너무 협소해요.
- 방이 협소해서 가구를 많이 놓을 수 없어요.
- 좁은 공간이지만 아늑하게 꾸몄어요.
Discussing knowledge or expertise.
- 그의 지식은 협소하다.
- 더 넓은 분야를 공부해야겠다.
- 제한적인 정보만으로는 부족하다.
Critiquing a perspective or viewpoint.
- 협소한 시각으로 문제를 바라보지 마세요.
- 좀 더 개방적인 태도를 가지세요.
- 그의 의견은 편협하다.
Describing infrastructure or urban planning.
- 도로가 협소해서 교통 체증이 심하다.
- 이 지역은 공공 공간이 부족하다.
- 주차 공간이 매우 협소하다.
Talking about business or market limitations.
- 우리의 시장은 협소하다.
- 새로운 시장을 개척해야 한다.
- 협소한 예산으로는 사업 확장이 어렵다.
Conversation Starters
"Have you ever felt like your living space was too '협소하다' (cramped)? How did you deal with it?"
"When discussing a topic, have you ever realized your own knowledge was '협소하다' (limited)? What did you do to learn more?"
"Do you think people today tend to have '협소한 시각' (narrow perspectives) on certain issues? Why or why not?"
"Imagine you have to design a functional space in a very '협소한' (narrow) area. What challenges would you face?"
"How can one avoid having '협소한 사고방식' (narrow ways of thinking) in a rapidly changing world?"
Journal Prompts
Describe a place you've been to that felt particularly '협소하다' (cramped). How did the lack of space affect your experience or feelings?
Reflect on a time when you encountered information or a viewpoint that challenged your previously '협소한' (limited) understanding of a subject. What was that experience like?
Consider a situation where you felt limited by '협소한' (narrow) resources (like time or budget). How did you adapt or what compromises did you have to make?
Think about a common societal issue. Do you believe '협소한 시각' (narrow perspectives) contribute to the problem? If so, how can people broaden their views?
Write about a skill or hobby you have. How would you describe the scope of your engagement with it? Is it '협소하다' (narrow), or is it broad and extensive?
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questionsWhile both mean 'narrow' or 'small', '협소하다' often implies a greater degree of inadequacy, inconvenience, or discomfort due to the lack of space or scope. '좁다' is a more general term. For example, a narrow road is '좁은 길', but a room that is uncomfortably small to live in might be described as '협소하다'. In abstract terms, '협소하다' can suggest a limitation that makes something impractical, whereas '좁다' might simply describe a limited range without such strong implications.
Yes, absolutely. '협소하다' is frequently used to describe abstract concepts such as knowledge ('협소한 지식'), perspective ('협소한 시각'), scope ('협소한 범위'), or even resources ('협소한 예산'). In these cases, it signifies a lack of breadth, variety, or sufficiency.
For physical spaces, '좁다' is generally neutral and very common. '비좁다' is more informal and emphatic for 'cramped'. '협소하다' can be used in both neutral and somewhat formal contexts, especially when emphasizing inadequacy. For abstract concepts, '제한적이다' (limited) is a formal alternative, while '편협하다' (narrow-minded) is specific and negative.
When '협소하다' modifies a noun directly, you use the adjective form '협소한' (hyeopssohan). For example, '협소한 공간' (cramped space), '협소한 시각' (narrow perspective), '협소한 도로' (narrow road).
The adverb form is '협소하게' (hyeopssohage). It's used to describe how an action is performed or how something appears or feels. For example, '방이 협소하게 느껴진다' (The room feels cramped), or '협소하게 설계된 건물' (a building designed narrowly/crampedly).
Use '작다' for general smallness. Use '협소하다' when the smallness implies a lack of adequate space, making it inconvenient, uncomfortable, or functionally limited. For instance, a small toy car is '작은 장난감 자동차', but a tiny workshop that hinders productivity might be '협소한 작업실'.
The most direct opposite is '넓다' (neolda), meaning 'wide' or 'spacious'. For abstract concepts, opposites include '넓은' (broad/wide, e.g., 넓은 시야 - broad perspective), '풍부하다' (pungbuhada - abundant/rich), and '개방적이다' (gaebangjeogida - open-minded).
While less common than for space or scope, '협소하다' can sometimes be used metaphorically for time if it implies a severely limited or insufficient amount, making it difficult to accomplish tasks. However, '부족하다' (to lack/be insufficient) or '짧다' (to be short) are more direct for time.
It often carries a negative connotation because it implies inadequacy or inconvenience. However, in neutral descriptions, it simply states a fact about the size or scope. The negativity is usually implied by the context or by adding intensifiers like '너무' (too).
Yes, idioms like '바늘구멍 통과하기' (passing through a needle's eye) describe succeeding despite severe limitations, similar to overcoming '협소한' circumstances. '우물 안 개구리' (frog in a well) describes a limited perspective, akin to '협소한 시각'.
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Summary
협소하다 describes something that is uncomfortably small or limited, whether it's a physical space like a room or an abstract concept like knowledge or perspective. It implies a degree of inadequacy or inconvenience.
- 협소하다 means narrow/small in space, range, or perspective.
- Used for cramped rooms, tight roads, limited knowledge, or narrow viewpoints.
- Implies inadequacy or inconvenience due to lack of space or scope.
- Can be physical (room) or metaphorical (knowledge).
Distinguish from 좁다
Remember that while 좁다 is a general term for 'narrow', 협소하다 often carries a stronger implication of inadequacy or inconvenience due to the lack of space or scope. Think of it as 'uncomfortably narrow' or 'insufficiently small'.
Adjective and Adverb Forms
Master the forms: '협소한' (hyeopssohan) modifies nouns (e.g., 협소한 공간), and '협소하게' (hyeopssohage) modifies verbs or describes feelings (e.g., 협소하게 느껴지다).
Beyond Physical Space
Don't limit '협소하다' to just rooms and roads. It's very useful for abstract concepts like knowledge, perspectives, or opportunities, signifying a lack of breadth or variety.
Aspirated 'H'
Pay attention to the aspirated 'h' sound at the beginning of '협소하다' and in the '하' syllable. Also, ensure the 'p' sound is unaspirated.
Example
주차 공간이 너무 협소해서 불편하다.
