Meaning and Usage
The Korean word '땀' means 'sweat' or 'perspiration'. It is a common noun used to describe the moisture that appears on the skin when a person is hot, nervous, or physically active.
Common Contexts
You will often hear '땀' in everyday situations related to exercise, heat, or hard work. For example, after running or during a hot day, people talk about '땀' to express how much they sweat.
Collocations and Patterns
- 땀을 흘리다: to sweat (literally 'to shed sweat'), used to describe the act of sweating.
- 땀을 닦다: to wipe sweat, often with a towel or handkerchief.
- 땀을 많이 흘리다: to sweat a lot, emphasizing the amount of sweat.
Register and Politeness
'땀' is a neutral noun and can be used in both formal and informal contexts without change.
Common Mistakes
Learners sometimes confuse '땀' with '눈물' (tears) because both are bodily fluids. Remember, '땀' is sweat, usually associated with heat or effort, while '눈물' is related to emotions.