Level 3

챙기다

No base JSON record found for this token.

Meaning and Usage

The verb '챙기다' is commonly used in Korean to express taking care of someone or something, or preparing and packing necessary items. It can mean to look after a person’s well-being or to make sure you have everything you need before leaving.

Common Contexts

  • Preparing belongings before travel or going out (e.g., 챙기다 + 물건).
  • Taking care of family or friends (e.g., 가족을 챙기다).
  • Reminding someone to bring or not forget important things (e.g., 지갑을 챙기다).

Collocations and Patterns

  • 물건을 챙기다: to pack or prepare items.
  • 가족을 챙기다: to take care of family.
  • ~을 꼭 챙기다: to make sure to bring or take something.

Register and Nuance

'챙기다' is an informal to neutral verb used in everyday conversation. It conveys a sense of attentiveness and responsibility. It is often used when reminding or encouraging someone to be careful or prepared.

Common Mistakes

Learners sometimes confuse '챙기다' with simply '가지다' (to have or carry). However, '챙기다' implies a deliberate action of preparation or care, not just possession. Use '챙기다' when emphasizing the act of making sure something is ready or someone is cared for.

Example Sentences

여행 갈 때 필요한 물건을 모두 챙겼어요.

Yeohaeng gal ttae piryohan mulgeoneul modu chaenggyeosseoyo.

I packed all the necessary items for the trip.

엄마가 항상 가족을 잘 챙겨 주셔서 고마워요.

Eommaga hangsang gajogeul jal chaenggyeo jusyeoseo gomawoyo.

Thank you, Mom, for always taking good care of the family.

출근할 때 지갑과 휴대폰을 꼭 챙기세요.

Chulgeunhal ttae jigapgwa hyudaepon-eul kkok chaenggiseoyo.

Make sure to take your wallet and phone when you go to work.