Korean word

결코

Pronunciation

Romanizationkyeolko

Meaning

  • adverbnever

Example

나는 결코 포기하지 않을 거예요.na neun kyeol ko po gi ha ji a neul kkeo ye yo

I will never give up.

Illustration for 결코 (never)

More examples

그 말을 들었을 때 나는 결코 웃을 수 없었다.keu ma reul teu reo sseul ttae na neun kyeol ko u seul ssu eop sseot tta

When I heard those words, I could never laugh.

Core concept

A door shut firmly against every possibility, leaving no chance for it to happen.

Common phrases

  • 결코 잊지 못하다kyeol ko it jji mo ta da

    can never forget

  • 결코 포기하지 않다kyeol ko po gi ha ji an ta

    never give up

Similar words

절대로cheoldaero: An adverb that firmly rules out an action or event under any circumstances.
전혀cheonhyeo: An adverb showing that not even a small amount or trace is present.
도저히tojeohi: An adverb that stresses being unable to do or accept something despite every effort.

Definition in Korean

어떤 일이나 상태가 절대 일어나지 않거나 존재하지 않음을 단호하게 표현하는 부사로, 강한 부정어와 함께 쓰인다.eo tteon i ri na sang tae ga cheol dae i reo na ji an keo na chon jae ha ji a neu meul tan ho ha ge pyo hyeon ha neun pu sa ro kang han pu jeong eo wa ham kke sseu in da

Word origin

The history of 결코 (gyeolko, "never") is not certain enough for a reliable component analysis, but its fixed form now marks strong negative emphasis.

Usage tips

  • 결코 (gyeolko, "never") often sounds firm and formal, so it fits strong statements and declarations better than casual everyday talk.

Word lists with this word