Level 1

누나

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Meaning and Usage

The word '누나' is used by males to refer to their older sister or a slightly older female they are close to. It is a familiar and affectionate term, often used in family and friendly contexts.

Social Context

'누나' is specifically used by males when addressing or talking about an older female sibling or a close older female friend. Females do not use '누나' to refer to their older sisters; they use '언니' instead.

Common Collocations

  • 누나가: subject marker with 누나, e.g., 누나가 요리해요 (Older sister cooks).
  • 내 누나: my older sister.
  • 누나랑: with older sister.
  • 누나, ~할래?: casual invitation or question to an older sister or close older female.

Tips

Be careful not to confuse '누나' with '언니'. '누나' is only used by males. Using '누나' when you are female can sound unnatural. Also, '누나' can be used affectionately for a close older female friend, not just biological sisters.

Example Sentences

내 누나는 대학생이에요.

Nae nuna neun daehaksaeng-ieyo.

My older sister is a college student.

누나, 오늘 저녁 같이 먹을래요?

Nuna, oneul jeonyeok gachi meogeullae-yo?

Older sister, do you want to eat dinner together today?

남동생이 누나를 많이 좋아해요.

Namdongsaeng-i nunareul mani joahaeyo.

The younger brother likes his older sister a lot.