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권한 — meaning in English: authority

gwonhan · Learn this word with quizzes, examples and more on Maspeak.

Guess the translation for authority
수치
suchi
키스
kiseu
상주
sangju
권한
gwonhan
교사
gyosa
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formal common
Usage
The word 권한 (gwonhan) is commonly used in professional settings, such as workplaces or government institutions, where discussions about power dynamics or permissions occur. For example, a manager might say, '이 직원은 이 프로젝트에 대한 권한이 없습니다' (This employee does not have the authority for this project) when clarifying roles.
Synonyms & nuances
While 권한 (gwonhan) specifically refers to 'authority' or the power to make decisions, 권리 (gwonri) means 'rights', which pertains to entitlements rather than powers. You would choose 권한 when discussing who can make decisions or take actions, while 권리 is more about what individuals are entitled to.
Culture
The term 권한 (gwonhan) has its roots in classical Chinese, reflecting the historical influence of Confucianism on Korean society, where hierarchy and authority play crucial roles. Interestingly, in contemporary Korea, discussions about 권한 often arise in the context of democratization, showcasing the ongoing evolution of power structures in a society that values collective voice.
FAQ
Q.What does the Korean word 권한 mean?
The word 권한 (gwonhan) translates to 'authority' in English, referring to the power or right to make decisions and enforce rules.
Q.How do you use 권한 in a sentence?
You can use 권한 in sentences like '그는 이 회의에서 발언할 권한이 있다' (He has the authority to speak at this meeting), demonstrating its use in formal contexts.
Q.Are there any common mistakes when using 권한?
A common mistake is confusing 권한 with 권리 (gwonri). Remember, 권한 refers to authority or power, while 권리 concerns rights or entitlements, so use them in their appropriate contexts.
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