Meaning and Usage
The word '어깨' refers to the shoulder, the part of the body connecting the arm to the torso. It is a common noun used in everyday conversation to talk about physical sensations, carrying things, or emotional support.
Common Collocations
- 어깨에 메다: to carry something on one's shoulder, often a bag or load.
- 어깨가 아프다: to have shoulder pain, a common expression when describing physical discomfort.
- 어깨를 토닥이다: to pat someone's shoulder, often to comfort or encourage.
Register and Politeness
'어깨' is a neutral noun and can be used in both formal and informal contexts without change.
Tips for Learners
Be careful not to confuse '어깨' with '팔' (arm). '어깨' specifically means the shoulder area, not the entire arm. When describing pain or actions involving the shoulder, use '어깨' to be precise.
Using '어깨' in expressions related to emotional support, like '어깨를 토닥이다,' shows a caring attitude and is common in spoken Korean.