Level 4

자극

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Meaning and Usage

The Korean noun '자극' primarily means 'stimulus' or 'stimulation.' It can refer to physical stimuli, such as sensory inputs, or metaphorical stimuli like motivation or emotional triggers.

Common Contexts

  1. Physical or sensory stimulation: For example, spicy or strong flavors can be described as '자극적인 음식' (stimulating food).
  2. Emotional or psychological stimulation: Movies, music, or experiences that provoke feelings or thoughts.
  3. Motivational stimulus: Challenges or events that encourage someone to act or improve.

Collocations and Patterns

  • 자극적인 음식: spicy or stimulating food, often with a slightly negative nuance regarding health.
  • 감정을 자극하다: to stimulate emotions.
  • 자극을 받다: to receive stimulation or motivation.

Register and Usage Notes

'자극' is a neutral noun used in both formal and informal contexts. When combined with '-적' as in '자극적,' it becomes an adjective meaning 'stimulating' or 'provocative.'

Common Learner Mistake

Learners sometimes confuse '자극' with '자극하다' (the verb form meaning 'to stimulate'). Remember that '자극' is a noun, so it needs appropriate particles or verbs to form sentences.

Use '자극' when talking about something that causes a reaction or motivation, whether physical, emotional, or psychological.

Example Sentences

이 영화는 감정을 자극하는 장면이 많다.

I yeonghwaneun gamjeongeul jageukhaneun jangmyeoni manhda.

This movie has many scenes that stimulate emotions.

자극적인 음식은 위에 좋지 않을 수 있다.

Jageukjeogin eumsik eun wie joji aneul su itda.

Spicy (stimulating) food can be bad for the stomach.

그는 새로운 도전을 통해 자극을 받았다.

Geuneun saeroun dojeoneul tonghae jageugeul badasda.

He was stimulated (motivated) by the new challenge.