Level 2

목소리

No base JSON record found for this token.

Meaning and Usage

The Korean word '목소리' (moksori) primarily means 'voice' or 'sound of the voice.' It refers to the sound produced when a person speaks or sings. This word is commonly used in everyday conversation to describe someone's vocal tone, volume, or quality.

Common Contexts

  • Describing the tone or quality of a person's voice (e.g., soft, loud, clear).
  • Talking about hearing someone's voice, especially over the phone or in person.
  • Expressing emotions or impressions related to how a voice sounds.

Collocations and Patterns

  • 목소리가 크다: to have a loud voice; often used when someone speaks loudly or wants to be heard.
  • 목소리가 부드럽다: to have a soft or gentle voice; used to describe pleasant vocal tones.
  • 목소리를 내다: to raise one's voice or express an opinion; can be literal or figurative.

Register and Politeness

'목소리' is a neutral noun and can be used in both formal and informal contexts without change. It is polite and appropriate for everyday conversation.

Common Mistakes

Learners sometimes confuse '목소리' with '소리' (sound) in general. Remember, '목소리' specifically refers to the human voice, while '소리' can mean any sound.

Example Sentences

그 사람은 목소리가 아주 부드러워요.

Geu sarameun moksoriga aju budeureowoyo.

That person has a very soft voice.

목소리가 크면 주목을 받기 쉽다.

Moksoriga keumyeon jumogeul batgi swipda.

If your voice is loud, it’s easy to get attention.

전화로 목소리를 들으니 반갑네요.

Jeonhwaro moksorireul deureuni bangapneyo.

It’s nice to hear your voice on the phone.