Level 1

어른

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Meaning and Usage

The Korean word '어른' primarily means 'adult' or 'grown-up.' It refers to a person who is mature in age and often implies responsibility and respect. It can also mean an elder or a superior in social hierarchy.

Politeness and Respect

When using '어른,' it often carries a respectful tone, especially when referring to someone older or in a higher position. For example, children are expected to show respect to '어른들' (adults/elders).

Common Collocations

  • 어른이 되다: to become an adult, emphasizing maturity and responsibility.
  • 어른들께 인사하다: to greet elders politely.
  • 어른답다: to behave like an adult, showing maturity.

Usage Tips

'어른' is a neutral term but often used in polite or formal contexts when referring to elders. Avoid confusing it with '아이' (child). Also, '어른' can be used honorifically to refer to someone's father or a respected elder, but context is important to avoid misunderstanding.

Example Sentences

어른들은 아이들에게 존경받아야 한다.

Eoreundeureun aideurege jonggyeongbadaeya handa.

Adults should be respected by children.

어른이 되면 책임감이 커진다.

Eoreuni doemyeon chaegimgami keojinda.

When you become an adult, your sense of responsibility grows.

어른께 인사할 때는 공손하게 해야 한다.

Eoreunkke insahal ttaeneun gongsonhage haeya handa.

You should be polite when greeting an elder.