Meaning and Usage
The Korean word '말기' refers to the 'end' or 'final period' of something, often used to describe the last stage of a process, condition, or period of time. It is commonly used in medical contexts to describe the terminal phase of an illness but can also apply to other situations like the final phase of a project or company status.
Common Collocations
- 말기 환자 (terminal patient): refers to a patient in the final stage of a disease.
- 말기 치료 (end-stage treatment): treatment given during the final phase.
- 말기 상황 (final situation): used to describe a critical or last phase in various contexts.
Register and Politeness
'말기' is a neutral noun and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. It is often found in written language, news reports, and medical discussions.
Usage Tips
When using '말기', it often implies urgency or seriousness because it denotes the last phase before an end. Learners should avoid confusing '말기' with '마지막' which also means 'last' but is more general and can refer to the last item or moment without the connotation of a critical final stage.