Level 3

대하다

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Meaning and Usage

The verb '대하다' primarily means 'to face' or 'to deal with' someone or something. It is often used to describe how one treats or approaches a person, situation, or problem. The word carries a nuance of attitude or manner in interaction.

Common Contexts

  • Treating people: 존중해서 대하다 (treat with respect), 친절하게 대하다 (treat kindly)
  • Facing problems or situations seriously: 문제에 대해 대하다 (deal with a problem)
  • Interpersonal relationships: 상대방을 대하는 태도 (attitude toward the other person)

Collocations and Patterns

  • 사람을 대하다: to treat a person
  • 문제에 대하다: to face or deal with a problem
  • ~에 대해 대하다: to respond or react to something

Register and Politeness

'대하다' is a neutral verb used in both formal and informal contexts depending on the sentence ending. It is common in spoken and written Korean.

Common Mistakes

Learners sometimes confuse '대하다' with '대답하다' (to answer). Remember, '대하다' focuses on how you treat or face something, not just responding verbally.

Example Sentences

사람을 존중해서 대해야 합니다.

Saram-eul jonjunghae-seo daehaya hamnida.

You should treat people with respect.

그 문제에 대해 진지하게 대하고 있어요.

Geu munje-e daehae jinji-hage daeha-go isseoyo.

He is dealing with that problem seriously.

고객을 친절하게 대하는 것이 중요합니다.

Gogaeg-eul chinjeolhage daehaneun geosi jung-yohamnida.

It is important to treat customers kindly.