Meaning and Usage
The verb '메우다' primarily means 'to fill' or 'to plug' a gap, hole, or vacancy. It is commonly used when talking about physically filling spaces such as holes or cracks, but also metaphorically to fill abstract gaps like time or positions.
Common Collocations
- 구멍을 메우다: to fill a hole
- 빈자리를 메우다: to fill a vacancy
- 시간을 메우다: to fill time
These collocations show how '메우다' can be used both literally and figuratively.
Register and Politeness
'메우다' is a standard verb used in everyday speech and writing. It is neutral in politeness and can be combined with polite endings as needed.
Common Mistakes
Learners sometimes confuse '메우다' with '채우다' (to fill). While both can mean 'to fill,' '메우다' often implies filling a gap or hole to close it, whereas '채우다' can be used more broadly for filling containers or abstract concepts. Pay attention to context to choose the right verb.