Meaning and Usage
The Korean word '사' primarily means the number four (4). It is used in counting, dates, and numbering sequences. It is a Sino-Korean numeral derived from Chinese characters.
Common Contexts
- Counting objects: 사 + counter (e.g., 사과 four apples)
- Dates and months: 사월 (April, the fourth month)
- Numbering rooms, floors, or items: 사번 (number four), 사층 (fourth floor)
Collocations and Patterns
- 사과 (apple) — often used in examples to count four apples.
- 사월 — the fourth month of the year.
- 사번 방 — room number four.
Notes
- '사' is a formal Sino-Korean number and is often combined with counters.
- It is different from native Korean numbers (넷, 네 개) but both are used depending on context.
- Learners sometimes confuse '사' with the native Korean number '네' (four). Use '사' with Sino-Korean counters and '네' with native Korean counters.
Understanding when to use '사' versus native Korean numbers is key to natural Korean counting.