Basic Meaning
"일곱" is the native Korean number for seven. It is used when counting objects, people, or time in everyday conversation.
Usage in Time and Age
You often hear "일곱" when telling time (e.g., 일곱 시 = seven o'clock) or stating someone's age (일곱 살 = seven years old).
Counting People and Objects
When counting people or items, "일곱" is combined with counters like 명 (people) or 개 (things). For example, 일곱 명 means "seven people."
Common Collocations
- 일곱 시: seven o'clock, used to specify time.
- 일곱 살: seven years old, used to describe age.
- 일곱 명: seven people, used when counting people.
Tips
Be careful not to confuse "일곱" with Sino-Korean "칠" which also means seven but is used in different contexts such as dates or phone numbers. "일곱" is preferred in native counting and informal speech.