Usage of '덜'
The adverb '덜' is used to express a smaller degree or an incomplete state compared to something else. It often modifies adjectives or verbs to indicate 'less' or 'not fully'.
Common contexts
You will frequently hear '덜' in everyday conversation when talking about quantities, intensity, or states, such as '덜 맵다' (less spicy) or '덜 피곤하다' (less tired).
Collocations and patterns
- 덜 + adjective/verb: to express a reduced degree (e.g., 덜 춥다 - less cold)
- 덜 + 되다: to indicate something is incomplete or insufficient (e.g., 준비가 덜 되다 - preparation is incomplete)
Register and nuance
'덜' is neutral and commonly used in both formal and informal speech. It helps soften statements by implying a comparative or partial state rather than an absolute one.
Common learner mistake
Learners sometimes confuse '덜' with '덜어내다' (to remove or scoop out). Remember, '덜' alone is an adverb indicating degree, not an action verb.