기초
gicho[kit͡ɕʰo̞]
The English phrase basics is translated into Korean as 기초 (gicho).
기초 refers to the fundamental facts or skills that are necessary to understand a subject.
How do you pronounce it?
gicho
Did you know?
- The word 기초 is used in Korean skincare to describe the 'basic' routine, such as toner and lotion, which is applied before any specialized treatments.
- While 기초 is the standard for basics, Koreans use the English loanword 'basic' (written as 베이직) specifically when talking about minimalist fashion or simple clothing colors.
- There is a common Korean expression about 'strengthening the basics' (기초를 다지다), which literally means 'to pack down the foundation' like tamping earth for a house.
Examples in context
- 이해하지 못해요I don't understand.
- 사랑해요I love you.
- 이거 얼마예요?How much is this?
- 기초가 중요해요.gicho-ga jung-yo-hae-yo.The basics are important.
- 기초부터 다시 배워야 해요.gicho-bu-teo da-si bae-wo-ya hae-yo.I need to learn again from the basics.
- 이 책은 기초를 다루고 있어요.i chaek-eun gicho-reul da-ru-go iss-eo-yo.This book covers the basics.
Example conversation
Minjun and Subin are talking about learning a new language.
- 민준 Min-jun수빈 씨, 외국어 공부 시작했어요?Subin ssi, oegugeo gongbu sijakhaesseoyo?Subin, did you start studying a foreign language?
- 수빈 Su-bin네, 그런데 기초가 너무 어려워요.ne, geureonde gichoga neomu eoryeowoyo.Yes, but the basics are too difficult.
- 민준 Min-jun제가 기초 공부를 도와줄까요?jega gicho gongbureul dowajulkkayo?Shall I help you with the basic study?
- 수빈 Su-bin정말요? 그러면 정말 고맙겠어요!jeongmalyo? geureomyeon jeongmal gomapgesseoyo!Really? I would be so grateful!
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry 기초, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
