한자어(han-ja-eo, hanjaeo)
Words in Korean that are derived from Chinese characters.
When to use
academic vocabulary, technical terms, word analysis
The nuance
한자어 refers to words derived from Chinese characters, used as vocabulary units, often in academic or technical contexts.
한자(han-ja, hanja)
The Chinese characters themselves as a writing system.
When to use
writing system, individual characters, calligraphy, character reading
The nuance
한자 refers to the characters themselves as a writing system, used at the character level, when referring to the script.
한자말(han-ja-mal, hanjamal)
Words of Chinese origin used mainly in everyday Korean vocabulary.
When to use
daily vocabulary, familiar words, general conversation
The nuance
한자말 refers to Chinese-derived words used commonly in daily life, encompassing a broader and more familiar set than 한자어.