Meaning and Usage
The adjective '저렇다' describes something being 'like that' or 'such as that,' often referring to a situation, behavior, or state that is somewhat distant from the speaker or listener. It is used to point out or describe a particular manner or condition that is visible or known.
Common Contexts
'저렇다' is frequently used when commenting on someone's behavior, appearance, or a situation that the speaker wants to highlight as 'that kind' or 'such.' It often carries a nuance of slight disapproval or surprise but can be neutral depending on context.
Collocations and Patterns
- 저런 행동 (such behavior): used to describe a specific kind of behavior, often with a negative or cautionary tone.
- 저렇게 말하다 (to speak like that): describing the manner of speaking, sometimes implying it is inappropriate or problematic.
- 저렇다 하면 (if it is like that): a conditional phrase used to discuss consequences or actions based on the described state.
Register and Politeness
'저렇다' is neutral in formality and can be used in both spoken and written Korean. It is common in everyday conversation and does not carry strong politeness levels by itself.
Common Learner Mistake
Learners sometimes confuse '저렇다' with '그렇다' or '이렇다,' which mean 'like that (near listener)' and 'like this (near speaker),' respectively. Remember that '저렇다' refers to something relatively farther from both speaker and listener, often something observed or mentioned previously.