At the A1 level, '극복' (overcoming) is a bit advanced, but you can understand it as a way to say 'getting better' or 'winning over a problem.' Think of it when you are talking about something hard, like learning Korean or being afraid. You use it with '하다' to make '극복해요' (I overcome). For example, if you are scared of dogs but now you can pet one, you '극복' your fear. It’s a very positive word that shows you are strong. Even if you don't use it every day yet, knowing it helps you understand when people talk about success and being brave.
At the A2 level, you can start using '극복' to describe personal challenges. It is a noun that usually goes with the verb '하다' (극복하다). You use it when you talk about overcoming a cold (though '낫다' is more common), overcoming a bad habit, or overcoming a small fear. The important thing to remember is the structure: [Thing you overcome] + 을/를 극복하다. For example: '저는 단점을 극복하고 싶어요' (I want to overcome my weaknesses). It's a great word for writing about your goals or how you solved a problem in your life. It sounds more mature than just saying 'I won' or 'It's okay now.'
At the B1 level, you should use '극복' in more varied contexts, such as social issues or health. You might discuss how a character in a movie 'overcame their past' (과거를 극복하다) or how a country 'overcame a natural disaster' (재난을 극복하다). You will also start to see it in compound forms like '극복 의지' (the will to overcome). At this level, you should distinguish between '극복하다' and '이기다.' Use '극복하다' when the 'enemy' is a situation or a feeling, not a person. It is a key vocabulary word for the TOPIK exam and for expressing complex thoughts about resilience and growth.
At the B2 level, '극복' becomes a tool for discussing abstract concepts and societal problems. You can use it to talk about 'overcoming the generation gap' (세대 차이 극복) or 'overcoming economic inequality' (경제적 불평등 극복). You should be comfortable using it in formal writing, such as essays or reports. You might also encounter the passive-sounding but active '이겨내다' and should know when to choose the more formal Sino-Korean '극복' for academic or professional tones. Understanding the Hanja (克: overcome, 服: submit) will help you grasp the deeper nuance of making a challenge 'submit' to your efforts.
At the C1 level, you should appreciate the rhetorical power of '극복.' It is used in literature and high-level journalism to frame narratives of national identity or philosophical triumph. You will see it in phrases like '인간의 한계 극복' (overcoming human limits) in the context of space exploration or extreme sports. You should be able to use it with advanced grammatical structures like '-음으로써' (by doing) or '-기에 달렸다' (depends on). For instance, '위기를 극복하느냐 못 하느냐는 우리의 의지에 달렸다' (Whether we overcome the crisis or not depends on our will). You can also explore synonyms like '타개' or '타파' and use them with precision.
At the C2 level, '극복' is part of your sophisticated vocabulary for discussing historical movements, psychological theories, and complex socio-political dynamics. You might analyze how '극복' functions as a central theme in Korean literature, representing the 'Han' (sorrow) being transformed into 'Heung' (joy/excitement). You can use it in highly formal contexts, such as legal arguments or academic dissertations, to describe the surmounting of procedural obstacles or the resolution of theoretical contradictions. Your usage should reflect an understanding of the word's weight and its ability to inspire and mobilize, while also being able to use its derivatives and related idioms flawlessly.

극복 em 30 segundos

  • 극복 is the Korean noun for 'overcoming' or 'conquering' obstacles and internal struggles through effort.
  • It is primarily used as a verb in the form '극복하다' with negative objects like crisis or fear.
  • The word carries a formal and powerful nuance, emphasizing resilience and the process of growth.
  • Commonly heard in news, dramas, and motivational contexts regarding health, economy, and personal trauma.

The Korean word 극복 (geuk-bok) is a powerful noun that translates to 'overcoming,' 'conquest,' or 'surmounting.' It is deeply rooted in the idea of facing a significant challenge, obstacle, or internal struggle and emerging victorious through effort and resilience. Unlike simple words for 'winning,' 극복 implies a process of struggle. It is most commonly used in the form of the verb 극복하다 (to overcome).

Core Nuance
The term suggests a transition from a state of being hindered or suppressed by a difficulty to a state of mastery over it. It is not just about moving past something, but about subduing the difficulty itself.

In everyday life, Koreans use this word to describe personal growth, medical recovery, and national resilience. For example, when someone recovers from a serious illness, people might say they have 'overcome the disease' (병을 극복하다). In a psychological context, it refers to moving past trauma or fears. The word carries a heavy, respectful tone, acknowledging the hard work involved in the process.

우리는 어떤 어려움도 극복할 수 있습니다. (We can overcome any difficulty.)

Historical Context
South Korea has a history of rapid development and recovery from war and economic crises. Consequently, '극복' is a word frequently heard in political speeches and news reports to foster national unity and strength.

When you hear this word in a K-drama, it often marks a turning point in the protagonist's character arc. It represents the moment they stop being a victim of their circumstances and start taking control of their destiny. Whether it is overcoming a fear of water or overcoming a socioeconomic barrier, 극복 is the keyword for transformation. It is also frequently paired with words like '의지' (willpower) or '노력' (effort), emphasizing that overcoming is a conscious choice and a result of persistence.

그녀는 자신의 한계를 극복하고 금메달을 땄어요. (She overcame her limits and won the gold medal.)

Furthermore, the word is used in academic and professional settings. Economists talk about 'overcoming a crisis' (위기 극복), and educators discuss 'overcoming learning gaps.' It is a versatile term that spans from the most intimate personal struggles to global systemic issues. Understanding '극복' is essential for understanding the Korean ethos of 'jeongshin' (spirit) and 'han' (unresolved grief or resentment), as '극복' is often the prescribed remedy for moving forward from pain.

Social Usage
In social media or motivational content, you will see hashtags like #위기극복 or #자기극복. It is a highly positive word that inspires hope and action.

In summary, 극복 is more than just a translation for 'overcome.' It is a cultural concept that celebrates the human spirit's ability to endure and eventually dominate the hardships that life presents. It is the bridge between a problem and its resolution through sheer willpower and perseverance.

Using 극복 correctly requires understanding its grammatical placement and the types of objects it typically takes. As a noun, it often serves as the object of a sentence or is combined with 하다 to act as a transitive verb. The most common structure is [Object] + 을/를 극복하다.

Grammatical Structure
The object of '극복하다' is almost always something negative or challenging: a crisis (위기), an obstacle (장애), a weakness (단점), or a trauma (트라우마).

Let's look at how to use it in different levels of formality. In a formal setting, such as a business presentation or a news report, you might say: '우리는 경제 위기를 극복하기 위해 노력하고 있습니다' (We are striving to overcome the economic crisis). Here, the focus is on a collective effort to solve a systemic problem. The use of the '-기 위해' (in order to) pattern is very common with 극복하다.

역경을 극복하는 과정이 중요합니다. (The process of overcoming adversity is important.)

In personal conversations, 극복 is used to describe personal growth. If you are talking to a friend about a fear of public speaking, you might say, '발표 공포증을 드디어 극복했어!' (I finally overcame my fear of presentations!). In this context, it sounds celebratory and triumphant. Notice how the past tense '했어' is used to signify a completed achievement.

Common Collocations
1. 시련을 극복하다 (Overcome an ordeal) 2. 공포를 극복하다 (Overcome fear) 3. 병마를 극복하다 (Overcome a disease/illness) 4. 편견을 극복하다 (Overcome prejudice)

Another interesting way to use 극복 is with the particle -적 to create an adjective: 극복적 (overcoming-natured/resilient), though this is less common than the verb form. More frequently, the noun form '극복' is used in compound nouns like 극복 의지 (willpower to overcome) or 극복 사례 (a case of overcoming/success story).

For learners at the A2 level, focus on the 'Object + 을/를 극복하다' pattern. It is the most natural way to express the idea. For example: '저는 가난을 극복하고 싶어요' (I want to overcome poverty). As you progress, you can use it with more complex grammar like '-아/어 내다' to emphasize the difficulty: '그는 시련을 극복해 냈습니다' (He managed to overcome the ordeal).

그들은 서로의 차이를 극복하고 친구가 되었다. (They overcame their differences and became friends.)

It's also important to note what 극복 *cannot* be used for. You don't 'overcome' a game or a single match; you 'win' (이기다). You don't 'overcome' a person; you 'defeat' them (패배시키다). 극복 is reserved for the circumstances, feelings, or conditions that stand in your way. It is a word of internal and situational victory, not interpersonal competition.

Sentence Patterns
- [Noun]의 극복 (The overcoming of [Noun]) - [Noun]을/를 극복하는 방법 (Ways to overcome [Noun]) - [Noun]을/를 극복한 사람 (A person who overcame [Noun])

By mastering these patterns, you can express deep sentiments about resilience and success in Korean. Whether you are writing a journal entry about your language learning journey or discussing social issues, 극복 will be one of your most valuable vocabulary tools.

The word 극복 (geuk-bok) is ubiquitous in Korean media and daily discourse. You will encounter it in news reports, motivational speeches, sports commentary, and even in the lyrics of popular songs. Its frequency in different domains highlights its importance in the Korean mindset of perseverance.

In the News
You will often hear news anchors say '경제 위기 극복을 위한 정부의 대책' (Government measures to overcome the economic crisis). During the COVID-19 pandemic, the phrase '코로나 극복' (Overcoming Corona) was everywhere—on banners, in public service announcements, and in news headlines.

In the world of sports, announcers use 극복 to describe an athlete's comeback. If a player was injured for a long time and then returned to win a game, the commentator might shout, '부상을 극복하고 화려하게 복귀했습니다!' (He overcame his injury and made a brilliant comeback!). This usage emphasizes the mental and physical grit required to return to top performance.

그 선수는 신체적 한계를 극복했습니다. (That athlete overcame physical limitations.)

K-dramas and movies are perhaps the best places to hear '극복' used in emotional contexts. Characters often struggle with past traumas or family scandals. A pivotal scene might involve a character saying, '나는 이 트라우마를 극복하고 싶어' (I want to overcome this trauma). It signifies a moment of self-healing and resolution. You might also hear it in romantic contexts, where a couple 'overcomes' the opposition of their parents (반대를 극복하다) or their social class differences.

In educational settings, teachers use the word to encourage students. '어려운 수학 문제를 극복해 봅시다' (Let's overcome the difficult math problems). It frames learning not just as memorization, but as conquering challenges. Similarly, in the workplace, managers might talk about '위기 극복 경영' (Crisis-overcoming management) during tough economic times.

Cultural Slogans
Many municipal governments in Korea use '극복' in their slogans. For instance, '재난 극복, 희망의 도시' (Overcoming disaster, city of hope). It serves as a rallying cry for communities.

Finally, you will hear it in documentaries. Documentaries about nature might describe an animal 'overcoming the harsh winter' (추운 겨울을 극복하다), or a documentary about a historical figure might focus on how they 'overcame social prejudice' (사회적 편견을 극복하다). Because '극복' implies a narrative of struggle and success, it is the perfect word for storytelling.

그는 가난한 환경을 극복하고 의사가 되었습니다. (He overcame a poor environment and became a doctor.)

When you are watching Korean content, try to spot the objects that appear with '극복'. You will notice a pattern: they are almost always things that require '인내' (patience) and '끈기' (persistence). This will help you get a feel for the specific weight of the word in a sentence.

While 극복 (geuk-bok) is a common word, learners often make specific mistakes regarding its usage, nuance, and collocations. Understanding these pitfalls will help you sound more like a native speaker and avoid awkward phrasing.

Confusing with '이기다' (To Win)
This is the most frequent mistake. '이기다' is used for competitions against others (sports, games, debates). '극복하다' is used for internal or situational struggles. You don't '극복' a soccer match; you '이기다' it. However, you can '극복' the nervousness you felt during the match.

Another common error is using 극복 for minor inconveniences. '극복' is a 'heavy' word. If you just had a small headache and it went away, you wouldn't say you 'overcame' it using 극복. You would simply say '머리가 나았어요' (My head got better). Using 극복 for trivial things can sound overly dramatic or even sarcastic in Korean.

Incorrect: 저는 어제 배고픔을 극복했어요. (I overcame my hunger yesterday - sounds too dramatic unless you were starving for days.)

Learners also sometimes struggle with the particle usage. Since 극복하다 is a transitive verb, it must take the object particle '을/를'. Some learners mistakenly use '에' or '에서' because they are thinking of 'overcoming *in* a situation.' Always remember: [Difficulty]을/를 극복하다.

Misusing with People
You generally do not '극복' a person. If you have a rival, you 'beat' them (이기다) or 'surpass' them (능가하다). You only use '극복' with people if you are talking about overcoming the *influence* or *oppression* of a person, but even then, it's more common to specify the situation.

There is also a nuance difference between '극복하다' and '해결하다' (to solve). '해결하다' is for logic-based problems or conflicts (like a math problem or a dispute). '극복하다' is for things that weigh you down emotionally or physically. For example, you '해결' a misunderstanding with a friend, but you '극복' the sadness caused by the fight.

Correct: 우리는 경제적 어려움을 극복해야 합니다. (We must overcome economic difficulties.)

Finally, watch out for the spelling. Because the 'ㄱ' in '극' and 'ㅂ' in '복' are both strong consonants, some learners misspell it as '극폭' or '금복'. Ensure you maintain the '복' (submission/clothing) Hanja sound. Paying attention to these subtle differences will significantly improve your Korean proficiency and help you express resilience accurately.

Checklist for Correct Use
1. Is the challenge significant? (Yes → 극복) 2. Is it a competition against a person? (No → 극복) 3. Does it require effort/will? (Yes → 극복) 4. Are you using the '을/를' particle? (Yes → 극복)

Korean has several words that share the meaning of 'overcoming,' but each has a distinct nuance and register. Choosing the right one depends on whether you are being formal, emotional, or describing a physical act. Let's compare 극복 (geuk-bok) with its closest synonyms.

이겨내다 (I-gye-nae-da)
This is the most common native Korean alternative to the Sino-Korean '극복하다.' It literally means 'to win and come out of.' It is more emotional and personal. While '극복하다' sounds like a newspaper headline, '이겨내다' sounds like something a mother would say to her child: '힘들어도 잘 이겨내야 해' (Even if it's hard, you must overcome it well).

Another powerful synonym is 타파 (ta-pa). This word means 'to break down' or 'to abolish.' It is used for long-standing social evils, old-fashioned customs, or fixed ideas. While '극복' is about surmounting a barrier, '타파' is about smashing it. For example, '고정관념 타파' (Breaking down stereotypes).

구습을 타파하고 새로운 시대를 엽시다. (Let's break down old customs and open a new era.)

For a more physical or military sense of overcoming, we use 정복 (jeong-bok), meaning 'conquest.' You '정복' a mountain peak or a foreign land. It implies a total and complete mastery over a physical space or a very difficult task. '에베레스트 산을 정복하다' (To conquer Mt. Everest). You wouldn't use '극복' here unless you were talking about the personal struggle of climbing it, rather than the act of reaching the top.

타개 (ta-gae)
This word means 'breakthrough.' It is used almost exclusively in professional or political contexts, especially when a situation is deadlocked. '난국을 타개하다' (To break through a difficult situation). It suggests finding a new way out of a stuck position.

There is also 승리 (seung-ri), which means 'victory.' While '극복' is the process and the result of surmounting a challenge, '승리' is the state of having won. You can '극복' a weakness to achieve '승리' in a competition. They are related but describe different aspects of success.

결국 우리는 역경을 딛고 승리했습니다. (In the end, we stepped over adversity and achieved victory.)

Finally, consider 견디다 (gyeon-di-da), meaning 'to endure.' Sometimes overcoming something just means enduring it until it passes. If the situation is something you cannot change but must survive, '견디다' is more appropriate. '극복' implies a more active, transformative victory than mere endurance.

Summary Table
- 극복: General/Formal overcoming - 이겨내다: Personal/Warm overcoming - 타파: Breaking down social barriers - 정복: Conquering physical goals - 타개: Finding a breakthrough in a deadlock

How Formal Is It?

Curiosidade

The character 服 (bok) also means 'clothes'. In ancient contexts, it implied making an enemy wear your clothes as a sign of submission, which evolved into the general meaning of overcoming or subduing.

Guia de pronúncia

UK /ɡɯk.pɔk/
US /ɡʊk.boʊk/
In Korean, stress is generally even across syllables, but the 'p' sound created by the liaison of 'k' and 'b' makes the 'b' sound slightly more tense.
Rima com
축복 (blessing) 정복 (conquest) 왕복 (round trip) 복복 (double luck) 북북 (tearing sound) 훅훅 (puffing sound) 쿡쿡 (poking sound) 툭툭 (tapping sound)
Erros comuns
  • Pronouncing 'geuk' as 'gook' (like soup).
  • Softening the final 'k' too much.
  • Changing 'bok' to 'pock' due to the preceding 'k' sound.

Nível de dificuldade

Leitura 2/5

The word is common in news and books, making it easy to recognize once learned.

Escrita 3/5

Requires knowledge of the correct objects and particles to use naturally.

Expressão oral 2/5

Pronunciation is straightforward, but it can sound too formal for casual chat.

Audição 2/5

Frequently heard in media, so it's easy to pick up.

O que aprender depois

Pré-requisitos

어렵다 이기다 문제 노력 성공

Aprenda a seguir

타개하다 타파하다 역경 시련 좌절

Avançado

전화위복 고진감래 칠전팔기 승화시키다

Gramática essencial

-아/어 내다

그는 결국 역경을 극복해 냈다. (He finally managed to overcome the adversity.)

-기 위해(서)

위기를 극복하기 위해 노력하자. (Let's work hard to overcome the crisis.)

-(으)ㅁ으로써

한계를 극복함으로써 성장했다. (Grew by overcoming limits.)

-(으)려고

공포를 극복하려고 연습했다. (Practiced to overcome fear.)

-아야/어야 하다

우리는 이 시련을 극복해야 한다. (We must overcome this ordeal.)

Exemplos por nível

1

저는 공포를 극복해요.

I overcome fear.

Noun + 을/를 + 극복해요 (Present tense)

2

어려움을 극복하세요!

Overcome the difficulty!

-세요 is an imperative ending.

3

우리는 가난을 극복했어요.

We overcame poverty.

Past tense -했어요.

4

단점을 극복하고 싶어요.

I want to overcome my weaknesses.

-고 싶어요 expresses desire.

5

슬픔을 극복해요.

I overcome sadness.

Standard polite present tense.

6

장애를 극복한 사람이에요.

He is a person who overcame a disability.

Noun-modifying form -ㄴ.

7

병을 극복합시다!

Let's overcome the illness!

-읍시다/ㅂ시다 means 'let's'.

8

위기를 극복하자.

Let's overcome the crisis.

Informal 'let's' form -자.

1

매일 연습해서 한계를 극복했어요.

I overcame my limits by practicing every day.

-아서/어서 indicates cause or method.

2

그는 부상을 극복하고 다시 뛰기 시작했다.

He overcame his injury and started running again.

-고 connects two actions.

3

시험 공포증을 어떻게 극복할까요?

How shall we overcome exam phobia?

-ㄹ/을까요 asks for a suggestion.

4

우리는 서로의 차이를 극복해야 해요.

We must overcome our differences.

-아야/어야 해요 expresses obligation.

5

그녀는 가난을 극복한 성공한 사업가예요.

She is a successful businesswoman who overcame poverty.

Noun-modifying past tense.

6

트라우마를 극복하는 것은 쉽지 않아요.

Overcoming trauma is not easy.

-는 것 turns a verb into a noun phrase.

7

의지로 시련을 극복할 수 있습니다.

You can overcome ordeals with willpower.

-ㄹ/을 수 있다 expresses ability.

8

어려운 환경을 극복하고 공부했어요.

I studied while overcoming a difficult environment.

-고 connects the overcoming and the studying.

1

경제 위기를 극복하기 위해 모두가 노력했습니다.

Everyone worked hard to overcome the economic crisis.

-기 위해 means 'in order to'.

2

그 영화는 역경을 극복하는 감동적인 이야기예요.

That movie is a touching story about overcoming adversity.

Modifying 'story'.

3

자신의 단점을 극복하면 더 성장할 수 있어요.

If you overcome your weaknesses, you can grow more.

-(으)면 expresses a condition.

4

그는 술 중독을 극복하고 새 삶을 살고 있다.

He overcame alcohol addiction and is living a new life.

Ongoing state -고 있다.

5

외국어 공부의 어려움을 어떻게 극복하셨나요?

How did you overcome the difficulties of studying a foreign language?

Honorific -시- used in a question.

6

차별을 극복하는 것은 사회 전체의 과제입니다.

Overcoming discrimination is a task for the whole society.

Subjective noun phrase.

7

실패를 극복해야 진정한 성공을 얻을 수 있다.

You must overcome failure to achieve true success.

Conditional obligation.

8

그녀의 용기가 두려움을 극복하게 했다.

Her courage made it possible to overcome fear.

-게 하다 is a causative form.

1

정부는 인플레이션을 극복하기 위한 대책을 발표했다.

The government announced measures to overcome inflation.

Formal written style.

2

세대 간의 갈등을 극복하려면 대화가 필요합니다.

To overcome conflict between generations, dialogue is necessary.

-(으)려면 means 'if you intend to'.

3

그는 신체적 장애를 극복하고 세계적인 피아니스트가 되었다.

He overcame his physical disability and became a world-class pianist.

Resultative -게 되었다.

4

편견을 극복하는 과정에서 많은 것을 배웠습니다.

I learned a lot in the process of overcoming prejudice.

-는 과정에서 means 'in the process of'.

5

우리는 이 난국을 반드시 극복해 낼 것입니다.

We will surely manage to overcome this difficult situation.

-아/어 내다 emphasizes successful completion of a hard task.

6

과거의 아픔을 극복하는 데는 시간이 걸립니다.

It takes time to overcome the pain of the past.

-는 데는 means 'in the act of/for the purpose of'.

7

기술적 한계를 극복함으로써 신제품 개발에 성공했다.

By overcoming technical limitations, they succeeded in developing a new product.

-(으)ㅁ으로써 means 'by means of'.

8

그의 성공은 불우한 환경을 극복한 결과이다.

His success is the result of overcoming a disadvantaged environment.

Equative sentence structure.

1

인간은 끊임없이 자연의 제약을 극복하며 발전해 왔다.

Humans have developed by constantly overcoming the constraints of nature.

-며 indicates simultaneous action; -아/어 오다 indicates past to present.

2

이 소설은 주인공이 내면의 모순을 극복하는 과정을 치밀하게 묘사한다.

This novel meticulously depicts the process of the protagonist overcoming their inner contradictions.

Literary description style.

3

구조적인 사회 문제를 극복하기 위해서는 제도적 개선이 시급하다.

Institutional improvements are urgent to overcome structural social problems.

Formal argumentative style.

4

죽음에 대한 공포를 극복하는 것이 철학의 궁극적 목표 중 하나다.

Overcoming the fear of death is one of the ultimate goals of philosophy.

Abstract academic statement.

5

그 기업은 파산 위기를 극복하고 업계 1위로 도약했다.

The company overcame the risk of bankruptcy and leaped to the top of the industry.

Business success narrative.

6

언어의 장벽을 극복하는 것은 문화적 이해의 시작이다.

Overcoming the language barrier is the beginning of cultural understanding.

Gerund subject.

7

그는 열등감을 극복함으로써 자신감을 회복할 수 있었다.

By overcoming his inferiority complex, he was able to regain his self-confidence.

Instrumental noun form.

8

우리는 집단 이기주의를 극복하고 공익을 우선시해야 한다.

We must overcome collective egoism and prioritize the public interest.

Societal imperative.

1

역사란 끊임없는 도전과 그에 따른 극복의 기록이다.

History is a record of constant challenges and the subsequent overcoming of them.

Definitive philosophical statement.

2

현대 사회가 직면한 기후 위기는 전 지구적 협력 없이는 극복 불가능하다.

The climate crisis facing modern society is impossible to overcome without global cooperation.

Complex negative construction (불가능하다).

3

작가는 고통을 예술로 승화시킴으로써 생의 허무를 극복하고자 했다.

The writer intended to overcome the futility of life by sublimating pain into art.

-고자 하다 expresses a formal intention.

4

민주주의는 수많은 탄압과 시련을 극복하며 정착되어 왔다.

Democracy has been established by overcoming numerous oppressions and ordeals.

Historical process description.

5

트라우마의 완전한 극복이란 망각이 아니라 수용을 의미한다.

Complete overcoming of trauma means acceptance, not forgetting.

Defining a concept through contrast.

6

그 철학자는 신체적 고통을 정신적 의지로 극복하는 초인적 면모를 보였다.

The philosopher showed a superhuman side by overcoming physical pain with mental will.

Biographical analysis.

7

경제적 양극화라는 시대적 난제를 극복하기 위한 다각적인 접근이 요구된다.

A multi-faceted approach is required to overcome the timely challenge of economic polarization.

Policy recommendation style.

8

인간 소외 현상을 극복하기 위해서는 공동체 의식의 회복이 선행되어야 한다.

To overcome the phenomenon of human alienation, the restoration of community spirit must come first.

Sociological thesis statement.

Colocações comuns

위기를 극복하다
장애를 극복하다
트라우마를 극복하다
단점을 극복하다
역경을 극복하다
공포를 극복하다
시련을 극복하다
한계를 극복하다
가난을 극복하다
질병을 극복하다

Frases Comuns

극복 의지

— The strong will or determination to overcome something.

환자의 극복 의지가 가장 중요합니다.

위기 극복

— Overcoming a crisis (often used in news and politics).

위기 극복을 위해 단결합시다.

자기 극복

— Self-overcoming; mastering oneself or one's weaknesses.

진정한 승리는 자기 극복에서 옵니다.

한계 극복

— Overcoming one's limits.

이 훈련은 한계 극복을 목표로 한다.

극복 사례

— A case study or example of overcoming a challenge.

성공적인 극복 사례를 소개합니다.

트라우마 극복

— Overcoming trauma.

트라우마 극복을 위한 상담을 받았다.

차별 극복

— Overcoming discrimination.

우리는 사회적 차별 극복을 위해 싸운다.

슬럼프 극복

— Overcoming a slump or a period of poor performance.

운동 선수가 슬럼프 극복에 성공했다.

공포 극복

— Overcoming fear.

그녀는 고소 공포 극복에 도전했다.

장애 극복

— Overcoming a disability or an obstacle.

장애 극복 상을 수상했다.

Frequentemente confundido com

극복 vs 이기다

Used for winning a game or competition against a person. 극복 is for obstacles.

극복 vs 해결하다

Used for solving a logical problem. 극복 is for surmounting a hardship.

극복 vs 견디다

Used for enduring a situation without necessarily changing it. 극복 implies victory over it.

Expressões idiomáticas

"산 넘어 산"

— One obstacle after another; even after overcoming one, another appears.

위기를 극복했더니 또 문제가 생겼다. 정말 산 넘어 산이다.

Neutral
"고진감래 (苦盡甘來)"

— Sweetness comes after bitterness; success follows hardship.

시련을 극복하면 고진감래의 순간이 올 것이다.

Formal/Literary
"칠전팔기 (七顚八起)"

— Falling seven times and getting up eight; persistence in overcoming.

그는 칠전팔기의 정신으로 가난을 극복했다.

Neutral/Motivational
"전화위복 (轉禍爲福)"

— Turning a misfortune into a blessing; overcoming a crisis to find success.

이번 위기 극복이 전화위복의 계기가 되었다.

Formal
"비 온 뒤에 땅이 굳어진다"

— The ground hardens after the rain; overcoming a struggle makes you stronger.

시련을 극복했으니 우리 사이는 비 온 뒤 땅이 굳어지듯 더 단단해질 거야.

Informal/Neutral
"천신만고 (千辛萬苦)"

— Countless hardships; used to describe the difficulty of overcoming.

그는 천신만고 끝에 장애를 극복했다.

Formal
"불굴의 의지"

— Indomitable will; the spirit needed to overcome anything.

그녀는 불굴의 의지로 병마를 극복했다.

Formal/Literary
"어둠이 깊을수록 별은 더 빛난다"

— The darker the night, the brighter the stars; overcoming deep hardship leads to great glory.

지금의 고난을 극복하면 더 빛나는 미래가 올 거예요.

Literary
"시련은 있어도 실패는 없다"

— There are ordeals, but no failure (as long as you keep overcoming).

그는 시련은 있어도 실패는 없다는 믿음으로 위기를 극복했다.

Motivational
"역경을 딛고 일어서다"

— To step over adversity and stand up; a vivid way to say 'overcome.'

그 선수는 역경을 딛고 일어서서 금메달을 목에 걸었다.

Neutral/Journalistic

Fácil de confundir

극복 vs 복종 (bok-jong)

Shares the 'bok' character.

Bok-jong means 'obedience/submission' to a person. Geuk-bok means making a situation submit to you.

명령에 복종하다 vs 위기를 극복하다

극복 vs 정복 (jeong-bok)

Shares the 'bok' character and similar meaning.

Jeong-bok is for physical conquest (mountains, lands). Geuk-bok is for abstract obstacles.

산 정복 vs 공포 극복

극복 vs 행복 (haeng-bok)

Shares the 'bok' character.

Haeng-bok means happiness. The 'bok' here is 'blessing', not 'submission'.

행복한 삶 vs 시련 극복

극복 vs 항복 (hang-bok)

Shares the 'bok' character.

Hang-bok means 'surrender'. It is the opposite of overcoming.

적에게 항복하다 vs 위기를 극복하다

극복 vs 회복 (hoe-bok)

Shares the 'bok' character.

Hoe-bok means 'recovery' (returning to a previous good state). Geuk-bok is the act of overcoming the illness to reach that state.

건강 회복 vs 질병 극복

Padrões de frases

A1

N을/를 극복해요.

공포를 극복해요.

A2

N을/를 극복하고 싶어요.

단점을 극복하고 싶어요.

B1

N을/를 극복하기 위해 V.

위기를 극복하기 위해 노력해요.

B1

N을/를 극복한 후에 V.

병을 극복한 후에 여행을 갔어요.

B2

N을/를 극복해 내다.

역경을 결국 극복해 냈습니다.

B2

N의 극복이 중요하다.

트라우마의 극복이 중요합니다.

C1

N을/를 극복함으로써 V.

한계를 극복함으로써 성공했다.

C2

N을/를 극복하고자 하다.

난국을 극복하고자 대책을 세웠다.

Família de palavras

Substantivos

극복 (Overcoming)
극복자 (Overcomer)
극복기 (Story of overcoming)

Verbos

극복하다 (To overcome)
극복되다 (To be overcome)

Adjetivos

극복적 (Overcoming-natured)

Relacionado

승리 (Victory)
성공 (Success)
인내 (Patience)
의지 (Will)
회복 (Recovery)

Como usar

frequency

Very high in formal contexts, news, and motivational speaking.

Erros comuns
  • 시험을 극복했다 시험에 합격했다 / 시험을 잘 봤다

    You don't 'overcome' an exam unless it was a major psychological trauma. You 'pass' it.

  • 친구를 극복했다 친구를 이겼다

    You don't 'overcome' a person in a competition; you 'beat' them.

  • 배고픔을 극복했다 배고픔을 참았다

    For temporary physical urges, '참다' (endure/hold back) is more natural than the heavy '극복하다'.

  • 위기에 극복했다 위기를 극복했다

    The verb 극복하다 takes the object particle '을/를', not the location particle '에'.

  • 게임을 극복했다 게임을 이겼다

    Winning a game is '이기다'. '극복' would only apply if you had a gaming addiction and quit.

Dicas

Choose the right object

Only use 극복 with words that represent a challenge, like 위기 (crisis), 장애 (obstacle), or 공포 (fear).

Use in formal writing

극복 is perfect for TOPIK essays or business reports to show a high level of vocabulary.

Combine with -아/어 내다

Using '극복해 내다' adds the nuance that you succeeded despite great difficulty.

Understand the 'Will'

In Korea, 극복 emphasizes '의지' (willpower). It's often seen as a character-building exercise.

Encouraging others

Saying '잘 극복하시길 바랍니다' is a very polite and strong way to wish someone well through a tough time.

News keywords

When you hear '극복' on the news, pay attention—it usually means a solution is being discussed.

Not just 'winning'

Remember that 극복 is about the journey through the hardship as much as the result.

The 'Bok' of Submission

Remember that 'Bok' means making the problem submit to you.

Compound nouns

Use compound nouns like '위기극복' to sound more concise in formal writing.

Synonym check

If the situation is physical, consider '정복'; if it's social, consider '타파'.

Memorize

Mnemônico

Think of 'Geuk' as a 'Goat' and 'Bok' as a 'Box'. A goat leaping over a huge box to get to the grass. Overcoming the box!

Associação visual

Imagine a person standing on top of a giant mountain labeled 'CRISIS', holding a flag of victory.

Word Web

위기 장애 트라우마 극복 성장 성공 의지 노력

Desafio

Write down three things you want to '극복' this year and share them in Korean.

Origem da palavra

Derived from the Hanja characters 克 (극) and 服 (복).

Significado original: 克 (to overcome/subdue) + 服 (to submit/wear). Together, it means making a difficulty submit to one's will.

Sino-Korean (Hanja)

Contexto cultural

Be careful when using '극복' for disabilities; some people prefer '공존' (coexistence) or '적응' (adaptation) rather than the implication that a disability is something that must be 'conquered' like an enemy.

In English, 'overcome' is often used religiously (e.g., 'We Shall Overcome'), but in Korean, '극복' is equally common in secular, government, and personal contexts.

The song '상록수' (Evergreen Tree) often sung in times of crisis to inspire '극복'. The 'Gold Collecting Movement' (금모으기 운동) as a historical '극복' event. Para-athletes in Korea are often described as '극복의 아이콘' (Icons of Overcoming).

Pratique na vida real

Contextos reais

Health/Medical

  • 병을 극복하다
  • 암을 극복하다
  • 우울증을 극복하다
  • 부상을 극복하다

Business/Economy

  • 위기를 극복하다
  • 적자를 극복하다
  • 파산을 극복하다
  • 경쟁을 극복하다

Psychology

  • 트라우마를 극복하다
  • 공포를 극복하다
  • 콤플렉스를 극복하다
  • 슬픔을 극복하다

Social Issues

  • 차별을 극복하다
  • 편견을 극복하다
  • 가난을 극복하다
  • 장벽을 극복하다

Personal Growth

  • 한계를 극복하다
  • 단점을 극복하다
  • 게으름을 극복하다
  • 유혹을 극복하다

Iniciadores de conversa

"최근에 극복한 가장 큰 어려움은 무엇인가요? (What is the biggest difficulty you've overcome recently?)"

"한국어를 배우면서 어떤 어려움을 극복하셨나요? (What difficulties have you overcome while learning Korean?)"

"발표 공포증을 극복하는 좋은 방법이 있을까요? (Are there good ways to overcome public speaking phobia?)"

"우리가 기후 위기를 극복할 수 있다고 생각하세요? (Do you think we can overcome the climate crisis?)"

"슬럼프를 극복하기 위해 보통 무엇을 하시나요? (What do you usually do to overcome a slump?)"

Temas para diário

내가 과거에 극복했던 큰 시련에 대해 써보세요. 어떻게 극복했나요? (Write about a big ordeal you overcame in the past. How did you overcome it?)

올해 꼭 극복하고 싶은 자신의 단점 세 가지를 적어보세요. (Write down three of your weaknesses you want to overcome this year.)

사회적 편견을 극복한 사람의 이야기를 읽고 느낀 점을 써보세요. (Write your feelings after reading a story about someone who overcame social prejudice.)

위기 극복을 위해 가장 필요한 덕목은 무엇이라고 생각하나요? (What virtue do you think is most necessary for overcoming a crisis?)

한국어 공부의 정체기를 극복하기 위한 나만의 계획을 세워보세요. (Make your own plan to overcome a plateau in your Korean studies.)

Perguntas frequentes

10 perguntas

You can, but it sounds dramatic. For a simple cold, '낫다' (to get better) is more natural. Use '극복' for serious illnesses like cancer or long-term chronic conditions.

They mean the same thing, but '극복' is Sino-Korean and more formal. '이겨내다' is native Korean and sounds more emotional and personal. You'll see '극복' in news and '이겨내다' in songs or letters.

It is a noun. To use it as a verb, you add '하다' to get '극복하다'.

Generally, no. You '이기다' (win against) or '능가하다' (surpass) a person. You '극복' the situation or the feelings caused by that person.

You use '자기 극복' (ja-gi geuk-bok). It's a common term in philosophy and self-help.

No, use '풀다' (solve) or '해결하다' (resolve). '극복' is for the struggle, not the technical solution.

Both are correct. '극복하다' is more common as a combined verb. '극복을 하다' emphasizes the noun 'overcoming'.

Always use the object particle '을/를'. For example: '위기를 극복하다'.

Yes, '극복되다' means 'to be overcome.' For example: '그의 장애는 의지로 극복되었다' (His disability was overcome by willpower).

No, you only overcome negative things or challenges. You don't 'overcome' a vacation or a gift.

Teste-se 200 perguntas

writing

Write a sentence using '극복하다' and '위기'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

How do you say 'I want to overcome my fear' in Korean?

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Write a sentence about overcoming a physical limit.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Translate: 'He overcame poverty and became successful.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Write a sentence using '-기 위해' and '극복하다'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Use '극복해 내다' in a sentence about a difficult task.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Translate: 'Overcoming prejudice is important.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Write a short diary entry (2 sentences) about overcoming a bad habit.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Translate: 'We can overcome anything with willpower.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Describe a time you overcame a challenge in 3 sentences.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Translate: 'The government announced measures for crisis overcoming.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Write a sentence using '극복' as a noun.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Translate: 'She overcame the language barrier through practice.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Write a motivational slogan using '극복'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Translate: 'The process of overcoming trauma takes time.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Use '극복함으로써' in a sentence.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Translate: 'They overcame their differences and became friends.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Write a sentence about overcoming a slump in sports.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Translate: 'I hope you overcome your sadness soon.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Write a formal sentence about overcoming a national disaster.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Say 'I overcame my fear' in Korean.

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Say 'Let's overcome the crisis together' formally.

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Say 'It is not easy to overcome trauma'.

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Encourage someone: 'You can overcome this ordeal!'.

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Say 'I want to overcome my weaknesses'.

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Say 'He managed to overcome the injury'.

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Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Ask: 'How did you overcome the language barrier?'.

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Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Say 'We must overcome our differences'.

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Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Say 'Success follows overcoming failure'.

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speaking

Say 'I'm trying to overcome my laziness'.

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speaking

Say 'The patient's will to overcome is strong'.

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speaking

Say 'We overcame the economic crisis'.

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speaking

Say 'Let's overcome the slump together!'.

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Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Say 'She is a person who overcame poverty'.

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Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Say 'I finally overcame my presentation fear'.

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Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Say 'Overcoming limits is a great challenge'.

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speaking

Say 'I believe we can overcome this situation'.

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speaking

Say 'The process of overcoming is more important than the result'.

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Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Say 'I will overcome any obstacle'.

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Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Say 'Through effort, we overcame everything'.

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
listening

Listen to the word: '극복'. What does it mean?

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
listening

Listen to the phrase: '위기를 극복하다'. What are they doing?

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
listening

Listen to: '한계를 극복했어요'. Did they succeed?

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
listening

Listen to: '트라우마 극복이 필요해요'. What is needed?

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Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
listening

Listen to: '장애를 극복한 사람'. Who is being described?

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
listening

Listen to: '단점을 극복하고 싶어요'. What is the speaker's desire?

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Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
listening

Listen to: '병마를 극복했습니다'. What happened?

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Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
listening

Listen to: '경제 위기 극복 대책'. What is the topic?

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Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
listening

Listen to: '공포를 극복하세요'. Is this a command or a question?

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Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
listening

Listen to: '역경을 극복한 과정'. What is being discussed?

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Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
listening

Listen to: '어려움을 극복합시다'. What is the suggestion?

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
listening

Listen to: '의지로 극복했어요'. How was it overcome?

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
listening

Listen to: '차이를 극복하고 친구가 되다'. What happened after overcoming differences?

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
listening

Listen to: '슬럼프를 극복하는 법'. What is being explained?

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
listening

Listen to: '과거를 극복해야 해요'. What must be done?

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:

/ 200 correct

Perfect score!

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