Meanings and Usage
The Korean word '거리' primarily means 'distance' but is also commonly used to refer to a 'street' or 'road'. It is a versatile noun that appears in both literal and everyday contexts.
Common Contexts
- Distance: Used to describe the physical space between two points, such as between places or objects.
- Street or Road: Refers to a public road or area where people walk or vehicles pass.
Collocations and Patterns
- 거리 사이 (distance between): Used to specify the space separating two things.
- 거리가 멀다/가깝다 (distance is far/close): Common expressions to describe how far or near something is.
- 거리에서 (on the street): Indicates location where an action takes place.
Usage Notes
When using '거리' to mean 'street', it often appears in place names or descriptions of urban areas. When referring to 'distance', it is usually quantifiable and can be measured. Learners sometimes confuse '거리' with '길' (road/path), but '길' is more general for any path, while '거리' often implies a street in a city or a measurable distance.
Politeness and Register
'거리' is a neutral noun and can be used in both formal and informal contexts without change.