걱정하다 vs 우려하다
Korean word comparison
Listen to 걱정하다
Listen to 우려하다
| 걱정하다 | 우려하다 |
|---|---|
/guhk-JUHNG-hah-dah/ verb | /u-ryeo-hada/ verb |
| to worry; to be concerned or anxious about something or someone | to be apprehensive or to express concern about a possible negative outcome or risk |
How they differ
우려하다 emphasizes concern about potential risks or adverse outcomes and is often used in formal, analytical, or official contexts; 걱정하다 is more personal and emotional. 우려하다 is frequently used in reports, news, and statements about likely consequences.
When to use each
When to use 걱정하다: Use 걱정하다 when expressing personal feelings of anxiety or when speaking informally.
When to use 우려하다: Use 우려하다 to discuss anticipated problems, risks, or to make a formal statement of concern (e.g., in news, reports, or official remarks).
Side-by-side examples
- 시민들은 교통 혼잡 때문에 걱정하고 있다.
(Citizens are worried about the traffic congestion.) - 정부는 이번 조치가 물가 상승을 초래할 우려가 있다고 밝혔다.
(The government stated that there is a concern that this measure could cause a rise in prices.)
Register & nuance: 우려하다 is more formal and often used in official, journalistic, or technical language compared with 걱정하다.