Meanings and Usage
The Korean word '검사' has several related meanings depending on context. Primarily, it refers to a 'public prosecutor,' a legal official who prosecutes criminal cases. However, it also means 'inspection' or 'examination' in contexts like medical checkups or security screenings.
Common Contexts
Legal: When talking about law and court, '검사' means a prosecutor. For example, '검사로 일하다' means 'to work as a prosecutor.'
Medical: In hospitals or clinics, '검사' refers to tests or examinations, such as '건강 검사' (health checkup).
Security: At places like airports or event entrances, '검사' means inspection or screening, e.g., '가방 검사' (bag inspection).
Collocations and Patterns
- 검사하다: to inspect or examine (used with objects like documents, bags, or health).
- 건강 검사: health examination.
- 가방 검사: bag inspection.
- 검사 결과: test or inspection results.
- 검사로 일하다: to work as a prosecutor.
Register and Politeness
'검사' is a neutral noun used in formal and informal contexts. When referring to a prosecutor, it is a professional title and used respectfully. For medical or security inspections, it is a common noun.
Common Confusion
Learners sometimes confuse '검사' as only meaning 'prosecutor.' Remember it also frequently means 'inspection' or 'test' in everyday contexts. Pay attention to the surrounding words to understand the intended meaning.