Meaning and Usage
The word '고속도로' refers to a high-speed road designed for fast traffic, typically without traffic lights or intersections, similar to a freeway or expressway. It is commonly used in everyday conversation when talking about travel, traffic conditions, or directions.
Common Contexts
You will often hear '고속도로' when discussing travel plans, traffic jams, or rest stops. For example, mentioning '고속도로 휴게소' refers to rest areas along the highway where drivers can take breaks.
Collocations and Patterns
- 고속도로 휴게소: highway rest area, a common stop for food and rest.
- 고속도로 통행료: highway toll fee, the charge for using the highway.
- 고속도로를 타다: to get on the highway, used when entering the highway.
Register and Politeness
'고속도로' is a neutral noun used in both formal and informal contexts. It is appropriate in daily conversation, news reports, and written texts.
Learner Tips
A common confusion is mixing '고속도로' with '일반도로' (regular road). Remember, '고속도로' implies a controlled-access highway designed for faster travel without traffic lights. Use it when emphasizing speed and long-distance travel by car.