Meaning and Usage
'더욱' is an adverb used to emphasize an increase or intensification of a state or action. It often translates as 'more', 'even more', or 'further' in English. It is commonly used in both spoken and written Korean to express that something is happening to a greater degree than before.
Common Contexts
You will frequently see '더욱' in contexts where a change or improvement is highlighted, such as emotions, weather, effort, or caution. It is often paired with adjectives or verbs to strengthen their meaning.
Collocations and Patterns
- 더욱 + adjective/verb: to intensify the quality or action (e.g., 더욱 중요하다 - to be even more important)
- 더욱 신중하게 (more carefully): used when emphasizing carefulness
- 더욱 노력하다 (to try harder): emphasizing increased effort
Register and Politeness
'더욱' is neutral and can be used in formal and informal contexts. It fits well in polite speech and writing.
Common Mistakes
Learners sometimes confuse '더욱' with '더' which also means 'more'. '더욱' tends to be more formal and emphatic, so use '더욱' when you want to stress a stronger degree or a more serious tone.