Meaning and Usage
The verb '걱정하다' means 'to worry' or 'to be anxious' about something. It is commonly used in everyday conversation to express concern over people, events, or outcomes.
Common Contexts
You will often hear '걱정하다' when talking about health, exams, relationships, or future uncertainties. It can be used both formally and informally, but the polite ending '-요' is typical in most situations.
Collocations and Patterns
- 걱정하다 + 에 대해 (to worry about something specific)
- 너무 걱정하다 (to worry too much)
- 걱정하지 마세요 (please don't worry) – a common comforting phrase
Usage Tips
When using '걱정하다', the object of worry is often marked with '에 대해' or directly followed by the noun without a particle. Avoid confusing '걱정하다' with '근심하다', which is more formal and literary. '걱정하다' is the everyday, natural choice.
Common Mistake
Learners sometimes omit the polite ending or use it inappropriately. Remember to adjust politeness according to the situation, for example, '걱정하지 마' is informal, while '걱정하지 마세요' is polite and appropriate in most contexts.