Level 4

살아남다

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Meaning and Usage

The verb '살아남다' means 'to survive' or 'to remain alive' in various contexts, from literal survival in nature to figurative survival in competitive situations.

Common Contexts

  • Literal survival: surviving harsh environments, disasters, or accidents.
  • Figurative survival: enduring tough social, economic, or professional conditions.

Collocations and Patterns

  • 살아남다 + 에서 (place): to survive in a certain place or environment.
  • 살아남다 + 으려면: used to express conditions necessary to survive.
  • 살아남다 + 까지: emphasizing survival until a certain point.

Register and Politeness

This verb is neutral and commonly used in both spoken and written Korean. It can appear in formal and informal contexts depending on the sentence ending.

Common Learner Mistake

Learners sometimes confuse '살아남다' with '살다' (to live). '살아남다' emphasizes surviving through difficulties or threats, not just living normally. Use '살아남다' when highlighting endurance or survival against odds.

Example Sentences

그는 어려운 환경에서도 끝까지 살아남았다.

Geuneun eoryeoun hwangyeongeseodo kkeutkkaji salanamassda.

He survived until the end even in difficult conditions.

이 동물은 극한의 추위 속에서도 살아남을 수 있다.

I dongmureun geukhanui chuwi sogeseodo salanameul su itda.

This animal can survive even in extreme cold.

경쟁이 치열한 시장에서 살아남으려면 끊임없이 노력해야 한다.

Gyeongjaengi chiyeolhan sijangeseo salanameuryeomyeon kkeunimeopsi noryeokhaeya handa.

To survive in a fiercely competitive market, you must constantly make efforts.