Level 4

권위

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Meaning and Usage

The Korean word '권위' (gwonwi) primarily means 'authority' or 'power,' often referring to recognized influence in a social, academic, or professional context. It can also imply 'dignity' or 'prestige,' highlighting respect earned through status or expertise.

Common Contexts

'권위' is frequently used when discussing figures who hold official or respected positions, such as professors, leaders, or institutions. It can describe both formal power and the intangible respect that comes with reputation.

Collocations and Patterns

  • 권위를 가지다: to have authority or prestige
  • 권위를 잃다: to lose authority or credibility
  • 권위를 내세우다: to assert or emphasize one's authority

These expressions help convey how authority is maintained, challenged, or demonstrated in conversation.

Register and Nuance

'권위' is a formal noun often used in written and spoken Korean when discussing social hierarchies or professional respect. It is not typically used in casual conversation unless referring to someone's status or influence.

Common Learner Mistake

Learners sometimes confuse '권위' with simple 'power' (힘) or 'influence' (영향력). While related, '권위' specifically implies recognized or legitimate authority, often backed by position or expertise, rather than just raw strength or informal influence.

Example Sentences

그 교수는 학계에서 큰 권위를 가지고 있다.

Geu gyosuneun hakgyeeseo keun gwonwireul gajigo itda.

That professor has great authority in the academic world.

권위를 내세우기보다는 서로 존중하는 태도가 중요하다.

Gwonwireul naeseugi bodaneun seoro jonjunghaneun taedoga jungyohada.

Rather than asserting authority, an attitude of mutual respect is important.

그는 권위를 잃고 신뢰도도 떨어졌다.

Geuneun gwonwireul ilko sinryeodo do tteoreojyeotda.

He lost his authority and credibility as well.