세계
segye
world
세계는 넓고 할 일은 많다.
The world is vast and there's much to do.
formal
The planet Earth; the planet on which humans live.
세계는 다양한 문화를 가지고 있다.
The world has diverse cultures.
formal
A particular sphere of human activity, experience, or knowledge.
예술의 세계에 발을 들여놓다.
To step into the world of art.
Pro Tip
Distinguish between '세계' and '지구'
'세계' refers to the planet Earth as a whole or a sphere of activity, while '지구' specifically means 'Earth' as a celestial body. For example, '지구 온난화' (global warming) uses '지구', not '세계'.
Word Origin
From Middle Korean 세게 (sege) 'world', derived from Old Korean 세 (se) 'world' + 계 (gye) 'boundary' or 'realm'.
Usage Notes
Used in both literal (planet Earth) and figurative (sphere of activity) senses. Common in formal contexts like news, education, and diplomacy.
Word Breakdown
세
world
root계
boundary/realm
suffix한영사전