Meaning and Usage
The word '남녀' specifically refers to 'men and women' or 'male and female' as a pair. It is commonly used in formal or neutral contexts when discussing gender inclusivity or distinctions.
Common Contexts
You will often see '남녀' in announcements, rules, or social discussions about gender equality, participation, or discrimination. It is a compound noun combining '남' (man) and '녀' (woman).
Collocations and Patterns
- 남녀 모두 (both men and women): used to emphasize inclusivity.
- 남녀 차별 (gender discrimination): a common phrase in social justice contexts.
- 남녀 구분 없이 (without distinction between men and women): used to stress equality.
Register and Politeness
'남녀' is neutral and formal enough for official documents, news, and public announcements. It is not casual slang but is widely understood.
Common Learner Mistake
Learners sometimes confuse '남녀' with just '남자' (man) or '여자' (woman). Remember, '남녀' always refers to both genders together, not individually.