Meaning and Usage
The adverb '항상' means 'always' or 'constantly' and is used to express that something happens all the time or regularly without exception. It is a very common word in daily conversation and writing.
Common Contexts
'항상' is often used when talking about habits, routines, or general truths. For example, "항상 아침에 커피를 마셔요" means "I always drink coffee in the morning." It can also be used to emphasize reliability or consistency, such as "그는 항상 시간을 잘 지켜요" (He always keeps time well).
Collocations and Patterns
- 항상 + verb: to express a habitual action (항상 웃다 - always smile)
- 항상 + noun + 을/를 + verb: to emphasize the subject's consistent behavior (항상 건강을 생각하다 - always think about health)
Register and Politeness
'항상' is neutral in politeness and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. It pairs naturally with polite verb endings like -요 and formal endings.
Common Mistakes
Learners sometimes confuse '항상' with '늘' or '언제나', which also mean 'always'. While similar, '항상' often stresses a stronger sense of constancy or habit. Use '항상' when you want to emphasize something happens without fail or regularly.