Meaning and Usage
The verb '기대다' primarily means 'to lean on' or 'to rely on.' It can be used physically, such as leaning your body against something for support, or metaphorically, like relying on someone emotionally or for help.
Common Contexts
Physically, you might 기대다 on a wall, chair, or another person. Emotionally, it is often used to express dependence or trust, e.g., 기대다 on a friend during tough times.
Collocations and Patterns
- 벽에 기대다: to lean against a wall (physical support)
- 친구에게 기대다: to rely on a friend (emotional support)
- 의자에 기대다: to lean on a chair (physical posture)
Register and Politeness
'기대다' is a neutral verb and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. The level of politeness depends on the sentence ending, not the verb itself.
Common Mistakes
Learners sometimes confuse 기대다 with 기대하다 (to expect). Remember, 기대다 is about leaning or relying physically or emotionally, while 기대하다 is about expecting or anticipating something.