Meaning and Usage
The verb '흐르다' primarily means 'to flow' or 'to stream,' often used to describe liquids like water or tears moving continuously. It can also be used metaphorically to describe the passage of time or emotions.
Common Contexts
- Natural phenomena: rivers, streams, rainwater
- Human emotions: tears flowing
- Abstract concepts: time flowing or passing
Collocations and Patterns
- 강물이 흐르다 (river flows): describing natural water movement
- 시간이 흐르다 (time flows): expressing the passage of time
- 눈물이 흐르다 (tears flow): describing crying or emotional expression
Usage Notes
'흐르다' is an intransitive verb, so it does not take a direct object. It is often used in both formal and informal contexts. Learners should not confuse it with '흘리다,' which is a transitive verb meaning 'to let flow' or 'to spill.' For example, '눈물을 흘리다' means 'to shed tears,' whereas '눈물이 흐르다' means 'tears flow' naturally.
Common Mistake
Avoid using '흐르다' transitively. Instead, use '흘리다' when you want to express causing something to flow or spill.