Basic Meaning
The verb '놓다' primarily means 'to put' or 'to place' something somewhere physically. It is one of the most common verbs used when talking about setting objects down.
Extended Uses
Besides the literal meaning, '놓다' is also used figuratively to mean 'to let go' or 'to release' something intangible, such as worries or hands. This usage often appears in everyday conversation to express relief or freedom from something.
Common Collocations
- 책을 놓다: to put down a book
- 손을 놓다: to let go of a hand or stop doing something
- 걱정을 놓다: to let go of worries
Usage Notes
'놓다' is an informal verb and can be used in various speech levels by conjugating appropriately. It is often confused with '두다' which also means 'to put,' but '두다' implies leaving something in place for a while, whereas '놓다' focuses on the act of placing or releasing.
When using '놓다' figuratively, it often implies a positive action of freeing oneself from something burdensome.