Meaning and Usage
The verb '다루다' primarily means 'to handle,' 'to deal with,' or 'to treat.' It is used when referring to managing objects, situations, or people. The word can imply physical handling, like operating a machine, or abstract handling, such as dealing with problems or treating people.
Common Contexts
- Handling equipment or tools: "기계를 다루다" (to operate a machine).
- Managing situations or problems: "문제를 다루다" (to deal with a problem).
- Treating people or subjects: "사람을 다루다" (to treat people).
Collocations and Patterns
- 다루다 + object: direct handling or dealing with something.
- 공정하게 다루다: to treat fairly.
- 잘 다루다: to handle well.
Register and Politeness
'다루다' is a neutral verb used in both formal and informal contexts. It is common in written and spoken Korean.
Common Learner Mistake
Learners sometimes confuse '다루다' with '사용하다' (to use). '다루다' often implies skillful or careful handling, while '사용하다' simply means to use something. For example, you can '다루다' a difficult topic or a machine, but you '사용하다' a tool or device.