Meaning and Usage
The verb '숨다' means 'to hide' or 'to be in hiding.' It is used when someone or something intentionally conceals themselves from others, often to avoid being seen or found.
Common Contexts
You will often hear '숨다' in everyday situations like children playing hide-and-seek, animals hiding, or people avoiding someone or something. It is a basic verb but very useful for describing physical hiding.
Collocations and Patterns
- '숨다 + 장소' (e.g., 숲속에 숨다): to hide in a place
- '숨다 + 이유' (e.g., 경찰을 피해 숨다): to hide to avoid something
- '잘 숨다': to hide well
Register and Usage Notes
'숨다' is a standard verb used in both spoken and written Korean. It is neutral in politeness and can be used in casual and formal contexts with appropriate endings.
Common Mistakes
Learners sometimes confuse '숨다' with '감추다' (to hide something). Remember, '숨다' is used when the subject hides themselves, while '감추다' is used when hiding an object or information.