Level 1

얼굴

No base JSON record found for this token.

Meaning and Usage

The Korean word '얼굴' means 'face' and is used to refer to the front part of a person's head. It is a very common noun used in everyday conversation.

Common Contexts

'얼굴' is often used when talking about someone's appearance, hygiene, or presence. For example, you might describe someone's face as handsome or pretty, talk about washing your face, or mention showing your face at social gatherings.

Collocations and Patterns

  • 얼굴이 잘생기다 / 예쁘다: to have a handsome/pretty face; used to compliment appearance.
  • 얼굴을 씻다: to wash one's face; common daily routine.
  • 얼굴을 보다: literally 'to see the face,' often meaning to meet or show up.
  • 얼굴을 내밀다: to show one's face, often implying making an appearance after absence.

Register and Politeness

'얼굴' is neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. It is a basic noun suitable for all levels of speech.

Common Mistakes

Learners sometimes confuse '얼굴' with '머리' (head). Remember, '얼굴' specifically means the face, not the entire head.

Example Sentences

그 사람은 얼굴이 아주 잘생겼어요.

Geu sarameun eolguri aju jalsaenggyeosseoyo.

That person has a very handsome face.

얼굴을 씻고 나서 기분이 좋아졌어요.

Eolgureul ssitgo naseo gibuni joajyeosseoyo.

I felt better after washing my face.

회의에서 얼굴을 자주 보여 주세요.

Hoeuieseo eolgureul jaju boyeo juseyo.

Please show your face often at the meetings.