Level 5

육체적

yukchejeok

Corporeal, of the flesh

TOPIK 5

Meaning and Usage

The adjective '육체적' specifically relates to the physical or bodily aspect of something, often contrasting with mental or emotional aspects. It is commonly used in contexts involving health, labor, pain, or physical conditions.

Common Collocations

  • 육체적 노동 (physical labor): Refers to work requiring bodily effort.
  • 육체적 고통 (physical pain): Describes pain felt in the body.
  • 육체적 건강 (physical health): Pertains to the condition of the body.

Register and Nuance

'육체적' is a formal adjective often used in written and spoken Korean, especially in academic, medical, or professional contexts. It is not typically used in casual conversation where simpler words like '몸의' (of the body) might appear.

Learner Tips

A common confusion is mixing '육체적' with '정신적' (mental). Remember that '육체적' strictly refers to the body or physical aspects, so use it when emphasizing tangible, bodily conditions or actions.

Using '육체적' correctly helps convey precise meaning about physicality in various contexts, from health discussions to describing types of work or pain.

Example Sentences

육체적 노동은 체력을 많이 필요로 한다.

Yukchejeok nodongeun cheryeoge manhi piryoro handa.

Physical labor requires a lot of strength.

그는 육체적 고통을 견디기 힘들어했다.

Geuneun yukchejeok gotongeul gyeondigi himdeureohaetda.

He found it hard to endure physical pain.

운동은 육체적 건강뿐만 아니라 정신 건강에도 좋다.

Undongeun yukchejeok geongangppunman anira jeongsin geongangedo jota.

Exercise is good not only for physical health but also for mental health.