Meaning and Usage
The adjective '낡다' describes something that is old and worn out, often implying that it has been used for a long time and shows signs of wear or damage. It is commonly used for objects like clothes, books, houses, or furniture.
Common Collocations
- 낡은 옷 (old clothes): refers to clothes that are worn or outdated.
- 낡은 집 (old house): a house that is old and possibly in need of repair.
- 낡은 책 (old book): a book that has been used extensively and shows wear.
Register and Nuance
'낡다' is neutral in formality and can be used in everyday conversation as well as in writing. It does not carry a negative judgment beyond the fact that something is old or worn.
Common Mistakes
Learners sometimes confuse '낡다' with '오래되다' (to be old in terms of time). While '오래되다' focuses on the length of time, '낡다' emphasizes the physical condition of being worn or used. For example, a book can be 오래되다 but not 낡다 if it is well preserved.