Meanings and Usage
The Korean word '다리' primarily means 'bridge' but is also commonly used to refer to 'leg' or 'foot' of a person or object. It is a versatile noun appearing in everyday conversation.
Common Contexts
- Bridge: Used when talking about structures that connect two places over water or roads.
- Leg (body part): Refers to human or animal legs, often in contexts of walking, pain, or movement.
- Leg (object part): Describes the supporting legs of furniture or other items.
Collocations and Patterns
- 다리가 아프다: to have leg pain, often after walking or standing.
- 다리가 부러지다: to have a leg broken (literal or figurative for objects).
- 다리를 놓다: literally 'to lay a bridge,' used figuratively to mean making connections or mediating.
Usage Notes
When using '다리' to mean 'leg,' it is usually clear from context whether it refers to a body part or an object part. For example, '의자의 다리' clearly means the chair's leg. Avoid confusion by providing context if needed.
In formal writing, '교량' is often used for 'bridge,' but '다리' is common in spoken Korean.
Common Mistake
Learners sometimes confuse '다리' with '발' (foot). Remember, '다리' is the whole leg, while '발' is the foot specifically.