Level 4

저절로

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Meaning and Usage

The adverb '저절로' means 'by itself' or 'naturally without deliberate effort.' It describes actions or changes that happen automatically or spontaneously without external force or conscious intention.

Common Contexts

You often see '저절로' used when talking about things that happen without human intervention, such as doors closing, plants growing, or habits forming. It can also describe involuntary reactions, like smiling or moving to music.

Collocations and Patterns

  • 저절로 닫히다: to close by itself (used for doors, windows, etc.)
  • 저절로 생기다: to arise naturally
  • 저절로 움직이다: to move on its own
  • 저절로 되다: to become something naturally

Register and Nuance

'저절로' is neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. It emphasizes the natural or automatic nature of an event or action.

Common Learner Mistake

Learners sometimes confuse '저절로' with '스스로,' which also means 'by oneself.' However, '스스로' emphasizes the subject's own will or effort, while '저절로' highlights that something happens automatically without conscious control.

Example Sentences

문을 닫지 않아도 저절로 닫힌다.

Muneul datji anhaedo jeojeolro daldinda.

Even if you don't close the door, it closes by itself.

노래를 들으면 저절로 몸이 움직인다.

Noraereul deureumyeon jeojeolro momi umjiginda.

When you listen to music, your body moves on its own.

열심히 공부하면 실력이 저절로 늘 것이다.

Yeolsimhi gongbuhamyeon sillyeogi jeojeolro neul geosida.

If you study hard, your skills will improve naturally.