Meaning and Usage
The Korean word '아' primarily means 'child' or 'baby'. It is commonly used in everyday conversation to refer to young children or infants.
Common Contexts
You will often hear '아' in family settings, childcare contexts, or when talking about young children in general. It is a neutral and informal term.
Collocations and Patterns
- 아기 (agi): baby — the most common compound form.
- 아를 돌보다 (areul doldobda): to take care of a baby/child — used when talking about childcare.
- 아가 울다 (aga ulda): the baby cries — a frequent expression.
Tips
Be careful not to confuse '아' with the exclamation '아!' which is used to express surprise or realization. When used as a noun, '아' always refers to a child or baby. This word is basic and polite enough for everyday use but is mostly found in informal or neutral speech rather than formal writing.