Korean word

자극

Pronunciation

Romanizationchageuk

Meaning

  • nounirritation

Example

이 화장품은 피부에 자극을 줄 수 있다.i hwa jang pu meun pi bu e cha geu geul chul su it tta

This cosmetic may cause skin irritation.

Illustration for 자극 (irritation)

More examples

빛은 눈에 자극을 줄 수 있다.pi cheun nu ne cha geu geul chul su it tta

Light may cause eye irritation.

Core concept

An outside touch or influence that makes the body, senses, or feelings react, sometimes unpleasantly and sometimes energizing.

Common phrases

  • 피부 자극pi bu cha geuk

    skin irritation

  • 자극을 주다cha geu geul chu da

    cause irritation

Similar words

충격chunggyeok: A sudden impact or event that causes a deep emotional shock.
영감yeonggam: A fresh idea that provides a starting point for creative work or problem solving.

Definition in Korean

감각이나 반응을 불러일으키는 외부의 작용이나 그 원인.kam ga gi na pa neung eul pul leo i reu ki neun oe bu ui cha gyong i na keu wo nin

Word origin

It is a Sino-Korean term from literary Chinese whose two characters convey piercing and forceful action, a useful reminder of an outside influence that triggers a response.

Usage tips

  • English irritation usually sounds unpleasant, but this Korean noun also covers helpful stimulation, so the surrounding context determines whether it is welcome.

Other meanings

  • stimulationnoun

Opposites

  • 진정chinjeongsoothingnoun
  • 억제eokjjeinhibitionnoun

Related words

Word lists with this word