Level 3

일등

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Meaning and Usage

The word '일등' means 'first class' or 'first place' and is commonly used to indicate the highest rank, grade, or position in a competition, exam, or classification. It can refer to both literal rankings, such as in exams or contests, and quality levels, such as first-class seats or products.

Common Contexts

  • Academic or competitive rankings (e.g., exams, contests)
  • Quality or class distinctions (e.g., first-class seats on a plane)
  • Awards or prizes indicating top achievement

Collocations and Patterns

  • 일등을 차지하다: to take first place
  • 일등석: first-class seat
  • 일등 상품: first prize or top product

These collocations are frequently used in everyday conversation and formal contexts alike.

Register and Politeness

'일등' is a neutral term and can be used in both formal and informal settings without changes. It is often combined with polite verbs or expressions depending on the context.

Common Learner Mistake

Learners sometimes confuse '일등' with '첫째' (first in order or sequence) or '최고' (the best). '일등' specifically refers to ranking or grade, not just order or quality. Use '일등' when emphasizing competition or ranking.

Example Sentences

그는 시험에서 일등을 차지했다.

Geuneun siheomeseo ildeungeul chajihatda.

He took first place in the exam.

일등석 좌석은 비행기에서 가장 편안하다.

Ildeungseok jwaseogeun bihaenggieseo gajang pyeonanada.

First-class seats are the most comfortable on the airplane.

일등 상품을 받기 위해 열심히 노력했다.

Ildeung sangpumeul batgi wihae yeolsimhi noryeokhaetda.

I worked hard to receive the first prize.