걱정 vs 우려
Korean word comparison
Listen to 걱정
Listen to 우려
| 걱정 | 우려 |
|---|---|
geot-JEONG noun | u-ryeo noun |
| worry; concern | a concern or apprehension, often about a possible negative outcome |
How they differ
우려 is more formal and often sounds like a measured concern about a risk, problem, or future consequence. 걱정 is broader and more everyday, covering personal worry, anxiety, and concern in casual conversation.
When to use each
When to use 걱정: Use 걱정 when you are talking about worry in everyday life, including personal feelings or informal conversation.
When to use 우려: Use 우려 when you want to sound more formal or when referring to a serious, often public or practical risk.
Side-by-side examples
- 아이 때문에 걱정이 많아요.
(I'm very worried about my child.) - 사고 우려가 있어 통행이 통제되었습니다.
(Traffic was restricted due to concerns about an accident.)
Register & nuance: 우려 is more formal and is common in news, reports, and official speech, while 걱정 is more neutral and conversational.