Level 1

끝내다

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Meaning and Usage

The verb '끝내다' means 'to finish' or 'to bring something to an end.' It is a transitive verb, so it requires an object that is being finished or ended. This word is commonly used in everyday conversation to talk about completing tasks, events, or activities.

Common Collocations

  • 끝내다 + object: to finish something (e.g., 숙제를 끝내다 - to finish homework)
  • 빨리 끝내다: to finish quickly
  • 끝내야 하다: must finish

Register and Politeness

'끝내다' is neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts when conjugated appropriately. It is often combined with polite endings like '-요' or formal endings like '-합니다.'

Usage Tips

When using '끝내다,' make sure to specify what is being finished. A common mistake is to omit the object, which can make the sentence unclear. For example, instead of saying '끝냈어요,' say '숙제를 끝냈어요' to clarify what was finished.

This verb is different from '끝나다,' which is intransitive and means 'something ends' by itself without an agent.

Example Sentences

숙제를 끝내고 나서 친구와 놀았어요.

Sukjereul kkeutnaego naseo chingueun nolasseoyo.

I finished my homework and then played with my friend.

회의를 빨리 끝내야 해요.

Hoeuireul ppalli kkeutnaeya haeyo.

We need to finish the meeting quickly.

이 일을 오늘 안에 끝내야 합니다.

I ireul oneul ane kkeutnaeya hamnida.

This work must be finished by today.