Level 3

잘살다

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Meaning and Usage

The verb '잘살다' literally means 'to live well' or 'to be well-off.' It is commonly used to describe a state of living comfortably, often implying financial stability or happiness in life.

Common Contexts

People use '잘살다' when talking about someone's lifestyle, financial success, or overall well-being. It can refer to material wealth but also to a good quality of life.

Collocations and Patterns

  • 잘살다 + 고 있다: to be currently living well (e.g., 잘살고 있다)
  • 잘살기 위해(서): for the purpose of living well
  • 잘살다 + 는 가족/사람: a family/person who lives well

Register and Nuance

'잘살다' is neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. It often carries a positive connotation, suggesting prosperity or happiness.

Common Mistakes

Learners sometimes confuse '잘살다' with just '살다' (to live). Remember that '잘살다' emphasizes the quality or condition of life, not just existence.

Example Sentences

그는 열심히 일해서 잘살고 있다.

Geuneun yeolsimhi ilhaeseo jalsalgo itda.

He works hard and is living well.

잘살기 위해서는 계획적으로 돈을 관리해야 한다.

Jalsalgi wihaeseoneun gyehoekjeogeuro doneul gwanrihaeya handa.

To live well, you need to manage your money systematically.

그 가족은 작은 집에서 잘살고 있다.

Geu gajogeun jageun jibeseo jalsalgo itda.

That family is living well in a small house.