Level 2

전철

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Meaning and Usage

The Korean word '전철' in this context refers to the mistakes or failures made by predecessors that one should avoid repeating. It is often used metaphorically to warn against repeating past errors.

Common Collocations

  • 전철을 밟다: to repeat the mistakes of the predecessor; used to caution against making the same errors.
  • 전철을 밟지 않다: to avoid repeating past mistakes; emphasizes careful decision-making.

Register and Nuance

This expression is commonly used in formal and informal contexts when discussing lessons learned from history or previous experiences. It carries a cautionary tone.

Learner Tips

A common mistake is confusing '전철' (predecessor's mistakes) with '전철' meaning 'subway' (same spelling but different meaning). Context is key: when talking about mistakes or lessons, it refers to the former. When discussing transportation, it means subway.

Example Sentences

그는 전철을 밟지 않기 위해 신중하게 결정했다.

Geuneun jeoncheoreul balpji anki wihae sinjunghage gyeoljeonghaetda.

He made a careful decision to avoid repeating the mistakes of his predecessor.

전철을 밟다라는 표현은 같은 실수를 반복한다는 뜻이다.

Jeoncheoreul balpda raneun pyohyeoneun gateun silsureul banbokhandaneun tteusida.

The expression 'to step on the predecessor's mistake' means to repeat the same mistake.

새로운 정책을 시행할 때 전철을 밟지 않도록 주의해야 한다.

Saeroun jeongchaekeul sihaenghal ttae jeoncheoreul balpji antorok juuihaeya handa.

When implementing a new policy, one must be careful not to repeat the mistakes of the past.