Meaning and Usage
The verb '지키다' primarily means 'to protect' or 'to keep' something such as promises, rules, or people. It is commonly used in everyday conversation to express the act of maintaining or safeguarding something important.
Common Collocations
- 약속을 지키다: to keep a promise
- 규칙을 지키다: to follow rules
- 시간을 지키다: to be punctual (literally 'keep time')
- 가족을 지키다: to protect one's family
These collocations show that '지키다' often relates to responsibility and reliability.
Register and Politeness
'지키다' is a standard verb used in both formal and informal contexts. The politeness level depends on the verb ending attached, not the verb itself.
Common Mistakes
Learners sometimes confuse '지키다' with '보호하다' (to protect) which is more formal and often used for physical protection or legal protection. '지키다' is more versatile and used in broader contexts including abstract concepts like promises or rules.
Use '지키다' when emphasizing personal responsibility or commitment.