Level 3

가리다

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Meaning and Usage

The Korean verb '가리다' has several related meanings centered around the idea of 'choosing,' 'distinguishing,' or 'covering.' It can mean to be selective or picky about people or things, to shield or cover something (like eyes from light), or to distinguish between options.

Common Contexts

  1. Being selective or picky: Often used when someone prefers certain people, foods, or things and avoids others. For example, children might '가리다' people by not talking to strangers.

  2. Covering or shielding: Used when physically covering something to protect or hide it, such as shielding eyes from bright light.

  3. Distinguishing or sorting: Sometimes used to mean distinguishing between different categories or types.

Collocations and Patterns

  • 사람을 가리다: to be selective about people, often implying shyness or caution.
  • 음식을 가리다: to be picky about food.
  • 눈을 가리다: to cover or shield the eyes.

Register and Usage Notes

'가리다' is a common verb used in everyday conversation. It is neutral in politeness but often appears in informal or semi-formal contexts. Learners should note that '가리다' can have both literal and figurative meanings depending on context.

Common Mistake

Learners sometimes confuse '가리다' with simply 'hide' or 'avoid.' While it can mean to cover or shield, it also strongly implies selection or preference, so context is key to understanding its nuance.

Example Sentences

그 아이는 사람을 잘 가려서 낯선 사람과는 말을 잘 하지 않는다.

Geu aineun sarameul jal garyeoseo natseon saramgwa neun mareul jal haji anhneunda.

That child is selective about people and doesn't talk well with strangers.

햇빛이 너무 강해서 눈을 가리느라 고생했다.

Haetbichi neomu ganghaeseo nuneul garineura gosaenghaetda.

The sunlight was so strong that I struggled to shield my eyes.

음식을 가리지 않고 뭐든지 잘 먹는 편이다.

Eumsigeul gariji anko mwodeunji jal meokneun pyeonida.

I don't picky about food and tend to eat anything well.