Meaning and Usage
The verb '도망치다' means 'to run away' or 'to escape.' It is commonly used when someone physically flees from a place or situation, often to avoid danger, responsibility, or punishment.
Common Contexts
You will often hear '도망치다' in contexts involving crime, conflict, or difficult situations where someone tries to avoid facing consequences. It can be used literally (running away from police) or figuratively (avoiding problems).
Collocations and Patterns
- 도망치다 + 에서/부터: to escape from a place or person (e.g., 경찰에서 도망치다 - run away from the police)
- 도망치지 말다: a common negative command meaning 'don't run away' or 'don't avoid'
- 책임을 도망치다: to escape responsibility
Register and Nuance
'도망치다' is neutral in formality and can be used in both spoken and written Korean. It often carries a negative connotation, implying avoidance or cowardice.
Common Mistakes
Learners sometimes confuse '도망치다' with '도망가다' which also means 'to run away.' While similar, '도망치다' emphasizes the act of escaping, often from a threat, whereas '도망가다' focuses more on the movement away. Use '도망치다' when highlighting the escape aspect.