Usage of '언제'
'언제' is a fundamental question word used to ask about time, equivalent to 'when' in English. It is commonly used in both formal and informal contexts to inquire about the timing of events or actions.
Common Patterns
- 언제 + verb: Directly asks when an action will happen or happened.
- 언제부터 + verb: Asks since when something started.
- 언제까지 + verb: Asks until when something will continue.
Nuances and Tips
'언제' can be used alone as a question or combined with other particles to specify the time frame. It is polite and neutral, suitable for everyday conversation.
A common learner mistake is confusing '언제' with '몇 시' (what time). '언제' asks about the general time or date, while '몇 시' asks for the exact clock time.
Collocations
- 언제 출발해요? (When do you leave?) — asking about departure time.
- 언제 만날까요? (When shall we meet?) — arranging a meeting time.
- 언제부터 시작했어요? (Since when did you start?) — asking about the starting point of an action.
Using '언제' correctly helps you ask about time naturally and politely in Korean conversations.