감옥 — meaning in English: prison

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Guess the translation for prison

폭동

pogdong

감옥

gam

챔피언

chaempieon

증인

jeung

면

myeon

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neutral common

Usage

Native speakers typically use the word 감옥 when discussing legal matters, crime, or punishment. For instance, in a conversation about a criminal trial, one might say, '그는 감옥에 갇혔어요' (He is imprisoned). This word is also used in news reports that cover stories about crime and justice.

Synonyms & nuances

A close synonym is '교도소' (gyodos), which specifically refers to a correctional facility or penitentiary. While 감옥 is a general term for prison, 교도소 suggests a more formal context, often tied to rehabilitation efforts rather than just punishment.

Culture

The word 감옥 has its roots in the Classical Chinese character '監獄' (jiānyù), which carries a similar meaning. In modern Korea, 감옥 reflects not just a physical space of confinement but also societal attitudes toward justice and rehabilitation, making it a significant term in discussions about human rights and prison reform.

FAQ

Q.What is the origin of the word 감옥?

The word 감옥 originates from the Classical Chinese characters that also mean prison, reflecting a rich history of legal terminology in Korea. Its usage has evolved alongside societal views on justice.

Q.How do you use 감옥 in a sentence?

You can use 감옥 in a sentence like '그녀는 감옥에서 5년을 보냈다' (She spent five years in prison). It is typically used in the context of discussing legal matters.

Q.Are there any common mistakes with the word 감옥?

A common mistake is to confuse 감옥 with 교도소; while both refer to prisons, 감옥 is more general and can refer to any prison facility, while 교도소 implies a correctional institution focusing on rehabilitation.

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