Level 3

내려놓다

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Meaning and Usage

The verb '내려놓다' literally means 'to put down' or 'to set down' something physically. It is commonly used when placing objects down, such as bags or tools. Beyond the literal sense, it is also used metaphorically to express 'letting go' or 'giving up' something intangible, like a position, responsibility, or emotional burden.

Common Collocations

  • '짐을 내려놓다': to put down luggage or burden
  • '자리를 내려놓다': to step down from a position or role
  • '마음을 내려놓다': to let go emotionally or mentally

Register and Politeness

'내려놓다' is a neutral verb suitable for both spoken and written Korean. It can be used in formal and informal contexts depending on the sentence ending.

Learner Tips

A common confusion is mixing '내려놓다' with '놓다'. While '놓다' means 'to put', '내려놓다' emphasizes putting something down from a higher place or releasing something. Use '내려놓다' when the action involves lowering or relinquishing something physically or metaphorically.

Example Sentences

무거운 가방을 바닥에 내려놓았다.

Mugeoun gabangeul badage naeryeonohatda.

I put the heavy bag down on the floor.

그는 오랜 고민 끝에 자리를 내려놓기로 결심했다.

Geuneun oraen gom-in kkeute jarireul naeryeonohgiro gyeolsimhaetda.

After long consideration, he decided to step down from his position.

마음의 짐을 내려놓고 편안해졌다.

Maeumui jim-eul naeryeonohgo pyeonanhaejyeotda.

I put down the burden in my heart and felt relieved.