Meaning and Usage
The Korean word '실수' primarily means 'a mistake' or 'an error.' It is commonly used in both everyday and formal contexts to refer to errors made by people, whether in work, speech, or actions.
Common Collocations
- 실수를 하다: to make a mistake
- 실수를 인정하다: to admit a mistake
- 실수로: by mistake, accidentally
These collocations are very frequent and useful for expressing common situations involving errors.
Nuances and Register
'실수' is a neutral noun and can be used in polite or casual speech depending on the sentence ending. It often implies an unintentional error rather than a deliberate wrongdoing.
Common Learner Mistake
Learners sometimes confuse '실수' with '잘못,' which also means 'fault' or 'mistake.' '실수' usually refers to accidental errors, while '잘못' can imply moral fault or blame. Use '실수' when emphasizing an unintentional mistake.
Practical Tips
When talking about mistakes in daily life or work, using '실수' with verbs like '하다' (to do) or '인정하다' (to admit) will sound natural and clear. Also, '실수로' is a handy adverbial phrase to express that something happened unintentionally.