Level 3

평생

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Meaning and Usage

The word '평생' means 'a lifetime' or 'throughout one's life.' It is used to describe something that lasts or is relevant for the entire duration of a person's life. It often appears in contexts related to long-term commitment, memories, or experiences.

Common Collocations

  • 평생을 바치다: to devote one's life to something
  • 평생 잊지 못하다: to never forget for a lifetime
  • 평생 친구: lifelong friend

These collocations emphasize the enduring or permanent nature of the subject.

Register and Nuance

'평생' is neutral in formality and can be used in both spoken and written Korean. It conveys a strong sense of duration and emotional weight, often used in sentimental or serious contexts.

Learner Tips

A common mistake is confusing '평생' with 단순히 '오래' (long time). '평생' specifically refers to the entire life span, not just a long period. Use '평생' when you want to emphasize the whole life duration rather than just a lengthy time.

Example Sentences

그는 평생을 교육에 바쳤다.

Geuneun pyeongsaengeul gyoyuge bachyeotda.

He devoted his whole life to education.

평생 잊지 못할 경험이었다.

Pyeongsaeng itji mothal gyeongheomieotda.

It was an experience I will never forget for my entire life.

평생 친구를 만나는 것은 쉽지 않다.

Pyeongsaeng chingureul mannaneun geoseun swipji anta.

Meeting a lifelong friend is not easy.