Ways to say it
| Korean | Romanization (Wiktionary) | IPA |
|---|---|---|
| 생각 | saenggak | [sʰɛŋɡa̠k̚] (SK Standard, Seoul, narrow) [sʰe̞ŋɡa̠k̚] (SK Standard, Seoul, narrow) |
| 사고 | sago | [ˈsʰa̠(ː)ɡo̞] (SK Standard, Seoul, narrow) [sʰa̠ɡo̞] (SK Standard, Seoul, narrow) |
| 고려 | goryeo | [ko̞ɾjʌ̹] (SK Standard, Seoul, narrow) |
| 사색 | sasaek | [sʰa̠sʰɛk̚] (SK Standard, Seoul, narrow) [sʰa̠sʰe̞k̚] (SK Standard, Seoul, narrow) |
The word refers to a representation created in the mind. While 생각 is the most common and versatile word for 'thought' or 'idea' in everyday conversation, you may encounter other forms depending on the context. To use 'thought' as a verb (to think), you typically use the verb form 생각하다.
Which one should you use?
생각 is the most common, versatile word for 'thought' or 'idea' used in everyday conversation. 사고 refers to the cognitive process of reasoning or logical thinking, often used in academic or technical contexts. 고려 is used when 'thought' means the act of considering or taking something into account. Finally, 사색 refers specifically to deep, quiet or philosophical contemplation.
How does it change in a sentence?
The phrase 생각이 나다 is used when a thought or memory spontaneously occurs to you.
How do you pronounce it?
saenggak
Did you know?
- The word 고려 can mean 'consideration' or refer to Goryeo, the ancient dynasty from which the English name 'Korea' is derived.
- The word 사고 can mean 'logical reasoning' or 'thinking', but it is also the exact same word used for a 'traffic accident' or 'incident'.
- The word 사색 has a double meaning. While it usually refers to 'philosophical contemplation', it can also describe the 'pale color' of a dead person's skin.
Examples in context
- 그건 내 생각이 아니다.That isn't what I thought.This sentence uses 생각 to express a thought.Tatoeba #11115068 by intertime, translation #7200411 by CK
- 네가 날 싫어한다고 생각했어.I thought you hated me.Tatoeba #8363539 by Eunhee, translation #2162647 by Hybrid
- 탐은 이것에 대해 생각을 해봤다.Tom gave it some thought.Tatoeba #4042387 by intratech, translation #2644933 by CK
- 제 생각에 그것은 좋은 생각입니다.In my opinion, that is a good thought/idea.
- 나는 너의 생각을 이해해.I understand your thoughts.
- 너의 의견에 동의하지 않아.I don't agree with your thoughts/opinion.
- 27 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Ji-eun and Min-jun are discussing a new project idea.
- 지은 Ji-eun민준 씨, 이 계획에 대한 생각은 어때요?Minjun ssi, i gyehoek-e daehan saenggak-eun eottaeyo?Min-jun, what are your thoughts on this plan?
- 민준 Min-jun제 생각에는 조금 위험한 것 같아요.Je saenggak-e-neun jogeum wiheomhan geot gat-ayo.In my thought, I think it's a bit dangerous.
- 지은 Ji-eun그렇게 생각하시는군요.Geureoke saenggak-hasineungunyo.I see that is your thought.
- 민준 Min-jun네, 다시 한번 생각해보는 게 좋겠어요.Ne, dasi hanbeon saenggak-haeboneun ge jokess-eoyo.Yes, I think it would be better to think about it again.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “thought” translations and entries 생각, 사고, 고려, 사색, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
