Level 1

수건

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Meaning and Usage

The Korean word '수건' primarily refers to a towel or handkerchief used for drying hands, face, or sweat. It is a common household item and appears frequently in daily life contexts such as after washing hands, exercising, or bathing.

Common Collocations

  • 수건을 가져오다: to bring a towel, often used when preparing for activities like sports or bathing.
  • 수건을 빨다: to wash a towel, emphasizing cleanliness.
  • 수건으로 닦다: to wipe with a towel, describing the action of drying or cleaning.

Register and Politeness

'수건' is a neutral noun used in both formal and informal contexts. It does not carry any special honorifics or humble forms.

Learner Tips

A common confusion is mixing '수건' with '손수건' (handkerchief specifically for hands or face). '수건' can be a larger towel, while '손수건' is usually smaller and often made of fabric for carrying in a pocket. Remember that '수건' is more general and can refer to bath towels or gym towels as well.

Example Sentences

운동 후에 땀을 닦으려고 수건을 가져왔어요.

Undong hue ttameul dakkeuryeogo sugeoneul gajyeowasseoyo.

I brought a towel to wipe off sweat after exercising.

수건을 깨끗하게 빨아서 다시 사용하세요.

Sugeoneul kkaekkeuthage ppalaseo dasi sayonghaseyo.

Wash the towel cleanly and use it again.

손을 닦을 때는 항상 수건을 사용하세요.

Soneul dakkul ttaeneun hangsang sugeoneul sayonghaseyo.

Always use a towel when drying your hands.