자세
jase[t͡ɕa̠sʰe̞]
The English word "stance" is translated into Korean as 자세 (jase).
The term is used to express a person's opinion, point of view or mental attitude toward a specific situation.
Meaning: opinion or point of view (noun)
What does it mean word for word?
Literally, 자세 refers to one's physical posture, attitude or stance.
Which one should you use?
While 자세 can be used for a stance, if you are discussing a person's behavioral attitude or their way of behaving toward others, the word 태도 is often a more natural choice. If you need to express a stance or perspective in a formal context, such as formal writing or a professional discussion of opinions, the term 입장 is commonly used.
How do you pronounce it?
jase
Did you know?
- While 자세 covers both physical and mental 'stance', Koreans use the word 자세히 (derived from 자세) to mean 'in detail' or 'closely'.
- The word 자세 is composed of two characters where the second, 勢, also means 'power' or 'force'. This implies that a person's 'stance' is not just a position, but a demonstration of their underlying energy or momentum.
- The word 입장, used for a formal 'stance', literally translates to 'entering a position'. It implies that a person has stepped into a specific role or situation to form their view.
Examples in context
- 저희 학교의 입장은 분명합니다.Our school's stance is clear.
- 내 태도는 확고해.My stance is firm.
- 나의 입장은 분명해.My stance is clear.
- 내 태도는 변함없어.My stance remains unchanged.
- 상황에 따라 다른 입장을 취할 수도 있어.Depending on the situation, I can take a different stance.
Example conversation
Minjun and Jieun are discussing a current issue.
- 민준 Min-jun이 문제에 대해 어떤 자세인가요?i mun-je-e dae-hae eo-tteon jase-in-ga-yo?What is your stance on this issue?
- 지은 Ji-eun저는 반대하는 자세예요.jeo-neun ban-dae-ha-neun jase-ye-yo.I take a stance of opposition.
- 민준 Min-jun지은 씨는 왜 그렇게 생각해요?ji-eun ssi-neun wae geu-reot-ge saeng-gak-hae-yo?Why do you think so, Jieun?
- 지은 Ji-eun이유를 천천히 설명해 줄게요.i-yu-reul cheon-cheon-hi seol-myeong-hae jul-ge-yo.I will explain the reasons slowly.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry 자세, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries 자세, CC BY-SA 4.0.
