Usage and Nuance
"쟤" is an informal, colloquial pronoun used to refer to 'that kid' or 'that person' who is not present in the conversation. It is often used among friends or in casual settings and can sound somewhat dismissive or familiar depending on tone and context.
Common Contexts
This word is typically used when talking about someone younger or a peer, often in school or social situations. It is less formal than "저 아이" or "그 아이," which are more neutral or polite.
Collocations and Patterns
- 쟤는 왜 (jyaeneun wae): Asking why that kid did something.
- 쟤가 (jyaega): Subject marker with 쟤, common in statements.
- 쟤랑 같이 (jyaerang gati): "with that kid," used when inviting or describing doing something together.
Register and Politeness
"쟤" is casual and should be avoided in formal or respectful speech. Using it in front of the person referred to can be rude.
Common Mistakes
Learners sometimes confuse "쟤" with "저" (that over there) or "그" (that), but "쟤" specifically refers to a person, usually a child or peer, and is more casual and familiar.