Level 2

씹다

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Meanings and Usage

The verb '씹다' primarily means 'to chew,' used literally when talking about eating food. It is a common verb in everyday conversation related to meals and digestion.

Besides the literal meaning, '씹다' is also used colloquially to mean 'to speak badly of someone' or 'to ignore someone's words.' This figurative use is informal and often appears in casual speech or slang contexts.

Common Collocations

  • '음식을 씹다' (to chew food): the basic literal use.
  • '뒤에서 씹다' (to talk badly behind someone's back): used when criticizing or gossiping.
  • '말을 씹다' (to ignore someone's words): implies not responding or dismissing what someone said.

Register and Usage Notes

The literal use is neutral and appropriate in all settings. The figurative use is informal and can be rude or offensive depending on context, so it is best used among close friends or in casual situations.

Common Learner Mistake

Learners sometimes confuse the figurative use with the literal one and may use '씹다' in formal contexts when criticizing someone, which can sound too harsh or inappropriate. Remember to adjust your language depending on the social setting.

Example Sentences

음식을 천천히 씹으면서 먹어야 소화가 잘 돼요.

Eumsigeul cheoncheonhi ssibeumyeonseo meogeoya sohwaga jal dwaeyo.

You should eat by chewing food slowly for better digestion.

그 사람에 대해 뒤에서 씹지 마세요.

Geu sarame daehae dwieseo ssipji maseyo.

Don’t speak badly about that person behind their back.

친구가 내 말을 씹어서 기분이 나빴어요.

Chinguga nae mareul ssibeoseo gibuni nappasseoyo.

I felt bad because my friend ignored what I said.