Meanings and Usage
The Korean verb '달리다' primarily means 'to hang' or 'to be suspended,' but it also commonly means 'to run.' These meanings are distinct but frequently encountered in everyday conversation.
Hanging or Being Suspended
When '달리다' is used to describe something hanging, it often refers to objects like pictures, decorations, or signs. For example, '벽에 그림이 달려 있어요' means 'There is a picture hanging on the wall.' This usage emphasizes the state of being attached or suspended.
Running
'달리다' is also a common verb for 'to run.' It is used in contexts like exercise, sports, or movement. For example, '그는 매일 아침 공원에서 달려요' means 'He runs in the park every morning.' This usage is straightforward and very common.
Other Uses
'달리다' can also describe something being attached or affected, such as a virus on a computer ('컴퓨터에 바이러스가 달려서'). This figurative use implies something is 'stuck on' or 'attached' causing an effect.
Common Collocations
- '벽에 달리다': to hang on the wall, used for pictures or decorations.
- '공원에서 달리다': to run in the park, common for exercise.
- '바이러스가 달리다': a virus is attached or infecting, used in tech contexts.
Register and Politeness
'달리다' is a standard verb used in everyday speech and writing. It is neutral in politeness and can be conjugated formally or informally depending on context.
Learner Tips
A common confusion is mixing the meanings of '달리다' as 'to hang' and 'to run.' Context usually clarifies the meaning, but remember that when talking about movement, it means 'to run,' and when talking about objects, it means 'to hang.' Avoid translating literally without context.