Usage of '더'
'더' is a very common adverb in Korean meaning 'more' or 'further'. It is used to indicate an increase in quantity, degree, or extent compared to something else.
Common contexts
- Asking for additional amounts: "더 주세요" (Please give me more).
- Comparing qualities or quantities: "더 좋은" (better), "더 많이" (more).
- Expressing necessity or encouragement to increase effort or amount.
Collocations and patterns
- 더 + verb/adjective: to express 'more' of an action or quality (e.g., 더 공부하다 - study more).
- 더 + noun + 보다: to compare and say 'more than' (e.g., 이것보다 더 좋다 - better than this).
Register and usage notes
'더' is neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. It is often combined with polite endings like 주세요 or 해야 해요.
Common learner mistake
Sometimes learners confuse '더' with '더욱', which is a more formal or literary synonym. Use '더' in everyday conversation for simplicity and naturalness.