Meanings and Usage
The Korean word '소매' primarily means 'sleeve'—the part of a garment that covers the arm. It is commonly used when talking about clothing, tailoring, or fashion. For example, you might describe the length or style of a shirt's sleeves.
Secondly, '소매' also means 'retail sale' or 'retail business.' This usage appears in contexts related to commerce, especially when distinguishing between wholesale (도매) and retail (소매).
Common Collocations
- 소매가 길다/짧다: describes sleeve length (long/short sleeves)
- 소매치기: pickpocket (literally 'sleeve thief')
- 소매점: retail store
- 소매 판매: retail sales
Notes on Usage
When using '소매' to mean 'sleeve,' it is a neutral term appropriate in both casual and formal contexts. However, when referring to retail, it is often used in business or economic discussions.
A common confusion for learners is mixing '소매' (retail) with '도매' (wholesale). Remember, '소매' is retail, the sale to individual consumers, while '도매' is wholesale, selling in bulk to retailers.
Also, '소매치기' is a fixed compound meaning 'pickpocket,' which is unrelated to retail but derived from the idea of stealing from someone's sleeve or pocket area.