Level 4

불평

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Meaning and Usage

The Korean noun '불평' means 'complaint' or 'dissatisfaction.' It is commonly used to express dissatisfaction about situations, services, or conditions. It often appears in contexts where someone voices displeasure or criticism.

Common Collocations

  • 불평하다: to complain
  • 불평을 하다: to make a complaint
  • 불평이 많다: to have many complaints
  • 불평을 듣다: to hear complaints

These collocations are frequently used in both spoken and written Korean.

Register and Nuance

'불평' is neutral in formality but often appears in everyday conversation and formal contexts alike. It can be used politely or bluntly depending on the sentence ending and context.

Usage Tips

When using '불평,' be aware that it usually implies a negative attitude. To sound constructive, pair it with suggestions or solutions rather than just expressing dissatisfaction. For example, instead of only saying 불평만 하지 말고 (don't just complain), add a positive action.

Common Mistake

Learners sometimes confuse '불평' with '불만.' While both mean dissatisfaction, '불만' often refers to a deeper or more general sense of dissatisfaction, whereas '불평' is more about vocal complaints. Use '불평' when focusing on the act of complaining.

Example Sentences

그는 회사의 복지에 대해 불평을 자주 한다.

Geuneun hoesaui bokjie daehae bulpyeongeul jaju handa.

He often complains about the company's welfare benefits.

불평만 하지 말고 해결책을 찾아보자.

Bulpyeongman haji malgo haegyeolchaekeul chajaboja.

Let's not just complain but try to find a solution.

고객의 불평을 신속하게 처리해야 한다.

Gogaegui bulpyeongeul sinsokhage cheorihaya handa.

Customer complaints must be handled promptly.