Meaning and Usage
The adverb '따로' means 'separately' or 'individually'. It is used when something is done apart from others or not together. It often appears in contexts involving payment, discussion, or preparation where things are handled independently.
Common Collocations
- 따로 계산하다: to pay separately, often used when friends split a bill.
- 따로 이야기하다: to talk separately, used when discussing a topic apart from the main conversation.
- 따로 준비하다: to prepare separately, indicating individual preparation.
Usage Notes
'따로' is neutral in formality and can be used in both casual and polite speech. It emphasizes separation or distinction in action or state. Learners sometimes confuse '따로' with '따뜻하게' (warmly) due to similar sounds, so focus on context.
Practical Tip
When you want to express that something is done independently or apart from others, '따로' is the natural choice. For example, when paying a restaurant bill individually, saying '따로 계산할게요' is common and polite.