Meaning and Usage
The Korean word '양심' means 'conscience'—the inner sense of right and wrong that guides a person's behavior. It is often used to describe moral awareness or ethical responsibility.
Common Contexts
'양심' is frequently used in everyday conversation when discussing honesty, guilt, or moral decisions. For example, people might say '양심에 따라 행동하다' (act according to one's conscience) or talk about '양심의 가책' (feelings of guilt).
Collocations and Patterns
- 양심에 따라 (according to conscience): used when someone acts based on their moral judgment.
- 양심이 있다/없다 (to have/no conscience): describes whether someone is honest or not.
- 양심의 가책 (pangs of conscience): refers to feelings of guilt or remorse.
Register and Nuance
'양심' is a neutral noun used in both formal and informal contexts. It carries a serious tone related to ethics and morality. When used, it implies the speaker expects moral integrity or is reflecting on ethical behavior.
Common Mistakes
Learners sometimes confuse '양심' with '심장' (heart) or '정신' (mind/spirit). Remember, '양심' specifically refers to conscience or moral sense, not emotions or mental state in general.