Meaning and Usage
The verb '굳다' primarily means 'to harden' or 'to become hard.' It can describe physical objects like water freezing or concrete solidifying. Beyond the literal sense, it is often used metaphorically to describe firmness or rigidity in emotions, expressions, or attitudes.
Common Contexts
- Physical hardening: water, clay, or other materials becoming solid.
- Emotional firmness: having a strong or unyielding mind.
- Facial expressions: a stiff or tense look, often due to nervousness or seriousness.
Collocations and Patterns
- '마음이 굳다' (to have a firm mind): used when someone is determined or resolute.
- '표정이 굳다' (expression becomes stiff): describes a tense or serious facial expression.
- '물/흙이 굳다' (water/clay hardens): literal physical hardening.
Register and Usage Notes
'굳다' is a common verb used in everyday conversation and writing. It is neutral in formality and can be used in both casual and formal contexts. Be careful not to confuse '굳다' with '굳히다,' which means 'to harden something' (causative).
Common Mistake
Learners sometimes confuse '굳다' (to become hard) with '굳히다' (to make something hard). Remember, '굳다' is intransitive, focusing on the subject becoming hard, while '굳히다' is transitive, indicating an action done to something.