Level 3

주인공

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Meaning and Usage

The word '주인공' refers to the main character or hero in a story, movie, novel, or any narrative. It is used to describe the person around whom the plot revolves.

Common Contexts

You will often hear '주인공' in discussions about films, books, dramas, and real-life situations where someone is considered the central figure.

Collocations and Patterns

  • 주인공 역할 (main character role): Refers to the role of the protagonist in a play or movie.
  • 주인공이 되다 (to become the main character): Used metaphorically to mean taking the lead or being the focus.
  • 주인공으로 등장하다 (to appear as the main character): Describes someone appearing in a story or event as the central figure.

Register and Nuance

'주인공' is a neutral term used in both formal and informal contexts. It is not limited to fictional stories but can also describe real-life situations where someone plays a leading role.

Common Mistakes

Learners sometimes confuse '주인공' with '영웅' (hero in a more heroic or valorous sense). While '영웅' emphasizes bravery or heroism, '주인공' simply means the main character, regardless of their traits.

Example Sentences

이 영화의 주인공은 용감한 소년입니다.

I yeonghwaui juingongeun yonggamhan sonyeonimnida.

The hero of this movie is a brave boy.

소설에서 주인공이 겪는 갈등이 매우 흥미롭다.

Soseoleseo juingongi gyeokneun galdeungi maeu heungmiropda.

The conflicts the protagonist experiences in the novel are very interesting.

그는 항상 자신의 인생에서 주인공이 되고 싶어 한다.

Geuneun hangsang jasinui insaengeseo juingongi doego sipeo handa.

He always wants to be the main character in his own life.