Meaning and Usage
"다섯" is the native Korean number for 5. It is used when counting objects, people, or indicating time in everyday conversation. Unlike Sino-Korean numbers, native Korean numbers like "다섯" are typically used for counting small quantities and age.
Common Collocations
- 다섯 개: five items (used for counting general objects)
- 다섯 시: five o'clock (telling time)
- 다섯 명: five people (counting people)
Notes
When using "다섯" with counters, the counter word follows it directly (e.g., 다섯 개, 다섯 명). Learners sometimes confuse native Korean numbers with Sino-Korean numbers (오), but "다섯" is preferred in casual speech for counting small numbers. It is polite and neutral in register.
Usage Tips
Use "다섯" when counting tangible items or people in informal and formal contexts. For example, "다섯 개의 사과" (five apples) or "다섯 명의 학생" (five students). Avoid mixing native and Sino-Korean numbers in the same phrase to keep naturalness.