지지

jiji

Support,backing

TOPIK 6

Meaning and Usage

The Korean noun '지지' primarily means 'support' or 'backing,' often used in contexts like political support, emotional backing, or endorsement of ideas and decisions. It is a formal noun commonly found in news, speeches, and formal conversations.

Common Contexts

'지지' is frequently used when talking about support for candidates, policies, opinions, or personal decisions. It implies active or passive endorsement and can be used both in personal and public contexts.

Collocations and Patterns

  • 지지를 받다: to receive support; used when someone or something gains backing.
  • 지지를 얻다: to gain support; often used in political or social contexts.
  • 지지를 표명하다: to express support; formal expression often used in official statements.

Register and Nuance

'지지' is a formal noun and is appropriate in written and spoken formal contexts. It is less common in casual conversation where verbs like '응원하다' (to cheer) or '도와주다' (to help) might be preferred.

Common Mistake

Learners sometimes confuse '지지' with '지원,' which also means support but often refers to material or financial aid. '지지' focuses more on moral or ideological backing rather than tangible assistance.

Example Sentences

그 후보는 많은 사람들의 지지를 받고 있다.

Geu huboneun manheun saramdeului jijireul batgo itda.

That candidate is receiving support from many people.

친구의 결정을 지지해 주는 것이 중요하다.

Chingue gyeoljeongeul jijhae juneun geosi jungyohada.

It is important to support a friend's decision.

정치적 지지를 얻기 위해 노력하고 있다.

Jeongchijeok jijireul eotgi wihae noryeokhago itda.

They are trying hard to gain political support.