긴장 — meaning in English: Nervous

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

Guess the translation for tension

과세

gwase

긴장

ginjang

면

myeon

인식

insig

연합

yeonhab

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neutral common

Usage

Native speakers use the word 긴장 (ginjang) when discussing feelings of anxiety or unease, especially before a performance or an important event. For example, someone might say they feel 긴장 before giving a speech or going for an important job interview, reflecting their nervousness in a relatable context.

Synonyms & nuances

While 긴장 implies a state of nervousness, another word, 불안 (buran), conveys a sense of unease or anxiety more generally. You might choose 긴장 when specifically referring to nervousness about an imminent event, while 불안 can be used for a broader, more persistent feeling of anxiety.

Culture

The term 긴장 derives from the combination of the characters 긴 (gin), meaning 'long' or 'tight', and 장 (jang), which relates to 'tension' or 'strain'. This evokes an interesting imagery of an emotional state where one feels stretched, much like a tight string. In Korean culture, expressing 긴장 is quite common, especially in social situations where performance is expected, demonstrating a communal understanding of anxiety.

FAQ

Q.What does 긴장 mean in English?

긴장 translates to 'nervous' in English. It describes the feeling of anxiety or apprehension often experienced before a challenging or significant event.

Q.How do you use 긴장 in a sentence?

You can use 긴장 in a sentence like, '나는 발표 전에 긴장이 됐다' which means 'I felt nervous before the presentation.'

Q.Is 긴장 used in formal situations?

Yes, 긴장 is considered a neutral term, making it suitable for both formal and informal situations. It can be used in conversations, writing, and presentations.

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