Meaning and Usage
The Korean word '계기' (gyegi) primarily means a 'chance,' 'opportunity,' or a significant 'moment' that triggers a change or a new start. It is often used to describe an event or circumstance that motivates someone to take action or change their life.
Common Contexts
'계기' is frequently used in personal stories, conversations about life changes, or when explaining why someone started a new habit or career. It carries a slightly formal tone but is common in both spoken and written Korean.
Collocations and Patterns
- '계기가 되다' (to become a chance/opportunity): Used to express that something serves as a trigger or turning point.
- '계기로 삼다' (to take as an opportunity): Indicates using an event as a reason or motivation to do something.
- '계기를 놓치다' (to miss the chance): Expresses missing an important opportunity.
Nuances and Tips
When using '계기,' speakers imply that the event or moment is significant enough to cause a change or start something new. It is not used for casual or everyday moments but for meaningful turning points.
A common learner mistake is confusing '계기' with simple '기회' (opportunity). While both can mean opportunity, '계기' emphasizes the triggering event or cause, often with a sense of a turning point, whereas '기회' is more general.
Use '계기' when you want to highlight the cause or reason behind a change or new beginning.