Level 4

동기

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Meaning and Usage

The Korean word '동기' primarily means 'motive' or 'inducement' in contexts related to reasons behind actions, especially in legal or psychological discussions. However, it also commonly refers to 'colleagues who joined at the same time' in workplaces or schools.

Common Collocations

  • 동기 부여 (motivation): Refers to the act of motivating someone.
  • 범죄 동기 (criminal motive): Used in legal contexts to discuss reasons behind crimes.
  • 동기들과 함께 (with colleagues who joined at the same time): Used in social or work contexts.

Register and Usage Notes

'동기' is a neutral noun used in both formal and informal contexts. When referring to colleagues, it is often used in workplaces or schools. When discussing motives, it appears in news, reports, or academic texts.

Common Confusion

Learners sometimes confuse '동기' (motive or colleague) with '동료' which means 'colleague' or 'companion' more generally. Remember, '동기' specifically refers to people who started something simultaneously, while '동료' is broader.

Example Sentences

그의 범죄 동기를 조사하고 있습니다.

Geuui beomjoe donggireul josahago itsseumnida.

They are investigating his motive for the crime.

동기가 분명해야 행동에 의미가 있습니다.

Donggiga bunmyeonghaeya haengdong-e uimi-ga itsseumnida.

The motive must be clear for the action to have meaning.

회사에서 동기들과 함께 프로젝트를 진행하고 있어요.

Hoesaeseo donggideulgwa hamkke peurojekteureul jinhaenghago isseoyo.

I am working on a project together with my colleagues who joined the company at the same time.