Category: Culture & SocietyPart of speech: nounDifficulty: Intermediate

전통

/jeontong/Roman

English meaning: Tradition

Definition

A custom or belief passed down through generations.

Example

“한국은 전통을 소중히 여겨요.”

In English: “Korea values its traditions.”

Another example: “이 마을은 오래된 전통을 잘 지키고 있어요.”

Usage — When, Where & How

Sino-Korean word for tradition/a custom handed down. Somewhat formal/cultural register. 전통적 means traditional; pairs with 지키다 (to preserve) and 이어가다.

Etymology & Origin

English — Origin & History

'전통' (jeontong) is derived from the classical Chinese 传统 (chuántǒng), meaning 'tradition.' It signifies inherited cultural practices and customs in Korean society.

Common Collocations

  • 전통을 지키다
  • 전통문화
  • 오랜 전통
  • 전통을 이어가다
  • 전통 음식

Word Forms

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Word Tools

Literary Heritage

“죽는 날까지 하늘을 우러러 한 점 부끄럼이 없기를”

/Jungneun nalkkaji haneureul ureoleo han jeom bukkeurem-i eopgireul/

“Until the day I die, I wish to look up at the sky without a single shame.”

Yun Dong-ju (윤동주) · Resistance Poet · 1917–1945

Prologue (서시)

Prologue — written while resisting Japanese colonial rule; Yun died in prison at 27

“나 보기가 역겨워 가실 때에는 말없이 고이 보내 드리오리다”

/Na bogiga yeokgyeowo gasil tteae neun maleobsi goi bonaedeuriori da/

“When you leave, weary of seeing me, I will let you go quietly, without a word.”

Kim Sowol (김소월) · Lyric Poet · 1902–1934

Azalea (진달래꽃)

진달래꽃 (Azalea) — one of the most beloved poems in the Korean language

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Language information

Language
한국어
Korean
Script
Hangul
Family
Koreanic
Speakers
80M
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