Level 2

어울리다

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Meaning and Usage

The verb '어울리다' primarily means 'to suit' or 'to be becoming.' It is commonly used to describe how well something matches or fits, such as clothes, colors, or personalities. It can also mean 'to associate with' or 'to hang out with' when referring to people.

Common Contexts

  1. Appearance and style: "그 옷이 너한테 잘 어울려" (That outfit suits you well).
  2. Social interaction: "친구들과 어울리다" means to spend time or socialize with friends.
  3. Personality and atmosphere: Describing how someone's character fits a certain mood or environment.

Collocations and Patterns

  • 어울리다 + (이/가) + 잘/못: to suit well or poorly.
  • 사람들과 어울리다: to hang out or associate with people.
  • 분위기와 어울리다: to match the atmosphere.

Register and Politeness

'어울리다' is neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. Politeness is adjusted by sentence endings rather than the verb itself.

Common Mistakes

Learners sometimes confuse '어울리다' with '맞다' (to fit) or '잘하다' (to do well). Remember, '어울리다' focuses on harmony or suitability rather than correctness or skill.

Example Sentences

그 옷이 너한테 정말 잘 어울려.

Geu ot-i neohante jeongmal jal eoulyeo.

That outfit really suits you well.

친구들과 어울려서 시간을 보내는 것을 좋아해요.

Chingudeulgwa eoullyeoseo siganeul bonaeneun geoseul joahaeyo.

I like spending time hanging out with friends.

그 사람은 분위기와 잘 어울리는 성격이에요.

Geu sarameun bunwigigwa jal eoullineun seonggyeogieyo.

That person has a personality that fits well with the atmosphere.