Meanings and Uses
The Korean verb '달다' has several common meanings depending on context. Primarily, it means 'to be sweet' when describing taste, such as in fruits or desserts. It also means 'to hang' or 'to attach' something physically, like hanging a picture or putting up a sign. Additionally, it can mean 'to give a name' or 'to label' someone or something.
Common Collocations
- 달다 (taste): Used to describe sweetness, e.g., '과일이 달다' (the fruit is sweet).
- ~에 달다: To hang or attach something to a place, e.g., '벽에 달다' (hang on the wall).
- 이름을 달다: To give a name, often used when naming a baby or pet.
Usage Notes
When using '달다' to describe sweetness, it is an adjective-like verb and often used with food items. When used as 'to hang' or 'to attach,' it is a transitive verb requiring an object and a location. The naming usage is less common but important in formal or literary contexts.
Common Mistakes
Learners sometimes confuse '달다' (to be sweet) with '답다' (to be like), which sound similar but have different meanings. Also, '달다' as 'to hang' should not be confused with '걸다,' which also means 'to hang' but is used in different contexts such as hanging a phone call or suspending something temporarily.