Level 2

등

deung

A light

TOPIK 2

Core Meanings

The Korean word '등' primarily means 'back' or 'spine' when referring to the human body. It is commonly used in everyday conversation to describe parts of the body or to talk about carrying something on one's back.

Light and Lamp

Another important meaning of '등' is 'light' or 'lamp'. This usage appears in words like '등불' (lamp) or '가로등' (streetlight). It is often used when talking about turning on or off lights.

Common Collocations

  • '등을 지다': to carry on the back, often used when talking about backpacks or burdens.
  • '등산': hiking or mountain climbing, where '등' relates to climbing or the back.
  • '가로등 켜다': to turn on the streetlight.

Usage Notes

'등' is a versatile noun that can appear in many compound words. When used alone, context usually clarifies whether it means 'back' or 'light'. For example, '등을 긁다' means 'to scratch one's back', while '등을 켜다' means 'to turn on the light'.

Common Mistake

Learners sometimes confuse '등' with '등급' (grade or rank) or '등' as a suffix meaning 'etc.'. Remember that as a standalone noun, '등' usually means 'back' or 'light', and context is key to understanding its meaning.

Example Sentences

그는 등에 무거운 가방을 메고 있었다.

Geuneun deunge mugeoun gabangeul mego isseotda.

He was carrying a heavy bag on his back.

밤에 등불을 켜고 책을 읽었다.

Bame deungbureul kyeogo chaeg-eul ilg-eotda.

I turned on the light at night and read a book.

등산할 때는 등산화와 등산용 배낭이 필요하다.

Deungsanhal ttaeneun deungsanhwa wa deungsanyong baenangi piryohada.

When hiking, hiking boots and a hiking backpack are necessary.