Basic Meaning
The verb '말하다' primarily means 'to speak' or 'to say.' It is one of the most common verbs used to express verbal communication in Korean.
Usage in Conversation
'말하다' can be used to describe the act of speaking in general, expressing opinions, or conveying information. It is often used in both formal and informal contexts, but the level of politeness depends on the verb ending attached.
Common Collocations
- 말하다 + 의견 (to express an opinion): Used when sharing thoughts or ideas.
- 말하다 + 진실 (to speak the truth): Emphasizes honesty.
- 말하다 + 이야기 (to talk about a story or topic): Used in casual conversations.
Important Notes
Learners sometimes confuse '말하다' with '이야기하다,' which also means 'to talk.' '말하다' is more general and can be used for any kind of speaking, while '이야기하다' often implies a more casual or storytelling context.
Politeness
The verb stem '말하다' changes according to speech level (e.g., 말해요, 말합니다). Choose the appropriate form based on the situation.