Meaning and Usage
The word '그때' means 'then' or 'at that time' and is used to refer to a specific moment in the past. It helps speakers point to a particular time when something happened or was true.
Common Contexts
'그때' is often used in storytelling or recalling past events. It can describe feelings, actions, or situations that occurred at that moment.
Collocations and Patterns
- 그때 나는 (I was then) — to describe your state or location at that time.
- 그때 무슨 일이 (what happened then) — to ask about events at that time.
- 그때는 정말 (then really) — to express emotions or conditions during that time.
Register and Politeness
'그때' is neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts without change.
Common Mistakes
Learners sometimes confuse '그때' with '지금' (now) or '그것' (that thing). Remember, '그때' always refers to a point in time, not a thing or the present moment.