본능 — meaning in English: Instinct

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Guess the translation for instinct

엔티티

entiti

수상

susang

고문

gomun

본능

bonneung

새

sae

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neutral common

Usage

Native speakers often use '본능' in discussions about human behavior, such as in psychology or during casual conversations about animal behavior. For example, when talking about why people might react a certain way in stressful situations, they might say, '그건 본능이야' (That's instinct).

Synonyms & nuances

A close synonym is '습관' (habit), but '본능' emphasizes innate, instinctual behaviors rather than learned ones. You would choose '본능' when discussing automatic responses to stimuli, while '습관' would be more about repeated actions formed over time.

Culture

'본능' traces its roots back to the classical Chinese character 本能 (běn néng), which emphasizes innate abilities. This concept is significant in Korean culture, reflecting a deep understanding of human nature and the belief that certain traits are inherent rather than learned, often showcased in the arts and literature.

FAQ

Q.What is the meaning of 본능 in English?

'본능' translates to 'instinct' in English, referring to an innate behavior or response that does not require conscious thought.

Q.Can 본능 be used in a sentence?

Yes, you can say, '그것은 본능에 의한 행동이다,' which means 'That behavior is driven by instinct.'

Q.Are there any common mistakes when using 본능?

A common mistake is to confuse '본능' with '감정' (emotion). While emotions can influence actions, '본능' refers specifically to instinctual, unlearned responses.

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