Meaning and Usage
The verb '커지다' means 'to become bigger' or 'to grow larger.' It is commonly used to describe physical growth, such as a child or an object increasing in size, but it can also be used metaphorically for abstract things like problems or cities expanding.
Common Collocations
- '점점 커지다': to gradually become bigger, often used with changes over time.
- '빠르게 커지다': to grow rapidly, used for fast expansion.
- '문제가 커지다': a problem getting bigger, used metaphorically.
Register and Politeness
'커지다' is a neutral verb suitable for everyday conversation and writing. It is often combined with polite endings like '-어요' or '-습니다' depending on the formality.
Usage Tips
When using '커지다,' remember it focuses on the process of becoming bigger rather than the act of making something bigger (which would be '키우다'). For example, '아기가 커지다' means the baby grows naturally, while '아기를 키우다' means to raise or nurture the baby.
Avoid confusing '커지다' with '크다,' which is an adjective meaning 'big.' '커지다' is a verb indicating change in size.