Meaning and Usage
"마라톤" refers to the long-distance running race of 42.195 kilometers, commonly known as a marathon. It is often used in sports contexts but can also metaphorically describe any long, challenging task.
Common Collocations
- 마라톤 대회 (marathon race): the event or competition itself.
- 마라톤 완주 (completing a marathon): emphasizes finishing the race.
- 마라톤 연습 (marathon training): the practice needed to prepare.
Usage Notes
When Koreans say "마라톤," they usually mean the official race or training for it. It is a loanword from English and is pronounced similarly. In casual conversation, "마라톤" can also describe something that takes a long time or requires endurance, like a "marathon meeting" (마라톤 회의).
Common Mistakes
Learners sometimes confuse "마라톤" with shorter running events or use it to mean any running. Remember, "마라톤" specifically refers to the 42.195 km race or metaphorically to long, endurance-demanding activities.