회의 — meaning in English: conference

Usage

Native speakers often use '회의' when discussing business matters, particularly in formal settings like corporate meetings or conferences. For instance, during a project update, a manager might say, '다음 주에 회의가 있습니다,' meaning 'We have a conference next week.'

Synonyms & nuances

'회의' is often used interchangeably with '모임' (moim, meaning 'gathering'), but '회의' specifically denotes a more formal meeting with a specific agenda, while '모임' can refer to any casual get-together. You'd choose '회의' when you want to emphasize the structured nature of the discussion.

Culture

'회의' has roots in classical Chinese, reflecting the historical influence of Confucianism on Korean society, where group discussions and consensus-building are valued. Interestingly, the concept of '회의' is deeply embedded in Korean business culture, often emphasizing hierarchy and respect, which can lead to lengthy discussions to ensure everyone’s voice is heard before making a decision.

FAQ