Level 4

일기

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Meaning and Usage

The Korean word '일기' primarily means 'diary' or 'journal'. It refers to a personal record where one writes daily experiences, thoughts, or feelings. This word is commonly used in everyday conversation, especially when talking about personal habits or emotional expression.

Common Contexts

People often use '일기' when discussing routines like writing before bed or reflecting on their day. It can also be used in educational settings where students are asked to keep a diary for language practice.

Collocations and Patterns

  • 일기를 쓰다: to write a diary; the most common collocation.
  • 일기를 읽다: to read a diary; used when reviewing past entries.
  • 일기장: diary book or notebook; the physical object.

Register and Politeness

'일기' is a neutral noun and can be used in both formal and informal contexts without change.

Common Mistakes

Learners sometimes confuse '일기' with '일기예보' (weather forecast). Remember, '일기' alone means diary, while '일기예보' refers to weather reports.

Example Sentences

매일 밤 자기 전에 일기를 써요.

Maeil bam jagi jeone ilgireul sseoyo.

I write in my diary every night before going to bed.

일기를 쓰면 자신의 감정을 정리하는 데 도움이 돼요.

Ilgireul sseumyeon jasinui gamjeongeul jeongrihaneun de doumi dwaeyo.

Writing a diary helps organize your feelings.

오늘 일기를 읽어 보니 어제 일이 생각났어요.

Oneul ilgireul ilgeo boni eoje iri saenggangnasseoyo.

Reading today's diary reminded me of what happened yesterday.