생명
생명은 소중히 여겨야 한다.
Life must be cherished.
The condition that distinguishes animals and plants from inorganic matter, including the capacity for growth, reproduction, functional activity, and continual change preceding death.
생명은 신비로운 현상이다.
Life is a mysterious phenomenon.
Commonly used in philosophical, scientific, and literary contexts to refer to the essence of living organisms.
A living being; an organism.
이 지구에는 수많은 생명체가 살고 있다.
Numerous living beings inhabit this Earth.
Often used in biological or ecological discussions.
A source of vitality or strength; the inner essence of a person or thing.
그의 음악은 그의 생명을 담고 있다.
His music embodies his very life.
Used metaphorically to describe the core essence or driving force behind something.
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Formal vs. Informal Usage
Use '생명' in formal writing, speeches, or scientific contexts. For casual conversation, '삶' (life) or '목숨' (life/livelihood) are more common. For example, '생명을 소중히 하다' (to cherish life) sounds formal, while '삶을 즐기다' (to enjoy life) is casual.
Gold Rule
Avoid Redundancy with '삶'
While '생명' and '삶' can sometimes overlap in meaning, '삶' is more about the experience of living, whereas '생명' emphasizes the biological or philosophical essence of being alive. For example, '삶의 질' (quality of life) uses '삶,' not '생명.'
Word Origin
From Middle Korean 생므 (< Old Korean *saŋmi), composed of 생 (saeng, 'to live') + 명 (myeong, 'life, destiny'). The character 生 (생) represents 'life' or 'to be born,' while 命 (명) denotes 'fate' or 'destiny,' reflecting the traditional Korean view of life as a predetermined essence.
Usage Notes
생명 is a formal term often used in philosophical, scientific, or literary contexts. In everyday speech, the more colloquial '삶' (life) or '목숨' (life/livelihood) may be preferred. The word carries a sense of reverence or sacredness in many contexts, such as in discussions about the sanctity of life.