Meaning and Usage
The verb '비우다' primarily means 'to empty' or 'to vacate.' It is used when physically removing contents from a space or container, such as emptying a room or a trash can. It can also be used metaphorically, for example, to empty one's mind or heart of worries.
Common Contexts
- Physical spaces: rooms, containers, bags
- Emotional or mental states: clearing worries or thoughts
Collocations and Patterns
- 방을 비우다 (to vacate a room): used when moving or cleaning
- 쓰레기통을 비우다 (to empty the trash can): common household task
- 마음을 비우다 (to empty one's mind/heart): used in emotional or spiritual contexts
Register and Politeness
'비우다' is a standard verb used in both formal and informal contexts. Politeness is adjusted by sentence endings, not the verb stem itself.
Common Mistakes
Learners sometimes confuse '비우다' with '비다' (to be empty). Remember, '비우다' is an active verb meaning 'to make empty,' while '비다' describes the state of being empty.