Korean word

지식인

Pronunciation

Romanizationchisigin

Meaning

  • nounintellectual

Example

그는 지식인으로서 사회 문제에 관심이 많다.keu neun chi si gi neu ro seo sa hoe mun je e kwan si mi man ta

As an intellectual, he is very interested in social issues.

Illustration for 지식인 (intellectual)

More examples

그 토론회에는 지식인들이 많이 참석했다.keu to ron hoe e neun chi si gin deu ri ma ni cham seo kaet tta

Many intellectuals attended the discussion forum.

Core concept

A person whose broad knowledge and learning shape how they understand society and ideas.

Common phrases

  • 지식인으로서chi si gi neu ro seo

    as an intellectual

  • 유명한 지식인yu myeong han chi si gin

    famous intellectual

  • 지식인층chi si gin cheung

    intellectual class

Similar words

전문가cheonmunga: A person with advanced knowledge or skill in a particular field who can give practical help.
학자hakjja: A professional researcher who studies a field and adds to its body of knowledge.
지성인chiseongin: A well-educated person who uses reason to form and express views on social issues.
인텔리intelli: A casual term for a person with plenty of knowledge and education.

Definition in Korean

지식이나 정보를 많이 알고 있거나 학식이 있는 사람을 가리키는 명사chi si gi na cheong bo reul ma ni al go it kkeo na hak ssi gi in neun sa ra meul ka ri ki neun myeong sa

Word origin

The Sino-Korean compound combines 지식 (jisi, "knowledge") with 인 (gin, "person"), directly linking the word to a knowledgeable, learned person.

Usage tips

  • In public writing and discussion, this word usually sounds more formal than a casual way to call someone well read or smart.

Opposites

  • 무식자musikjjaignorant personnoun

Related words

  • 지식chisikknowledgenoun
  • 지식층chisikcheungintellectual classnoun
  • 지식사회chisikssahoeknowledge societynoun

Word lists with this word