Meaning and Usage
The Korean verb '갚다' primarily means 'to pay back' or 'to repay,' especially in the context of returning money or debts. It can also be used metaphorically to express repaying kindness or favors.
Common Contexts
- Financial: repaying loans, debts, or borrowed money.
- Social: repaying kindness, favors, or moral debts.
Collocations and Patterns
- 돈을 갚다: to pay back money.
- 빚을 갚다: to pay off debt.
- 은혜를 갚다: to repay kindness or a favor.
Register and Politeness
'갚다' is a standard verb used in both formal and informal contexts. When speaking politely, it is conjugated accordingly (e.g., 갚아요, 갚습니다).
Common Learner Mistake
Do not confuse '갚다' with '주다' (to give). '갚다' specifically implies returning something owed, not just giving. Also, '갚다' is not used for returning physical objects like books; for that, '돌려주다' is more appropriate.