Level 4

소음

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Meaning and Usage

The Korean word '소음' (soeum) refers to unwanted or disturbing noise, often considered unpleasant or disruptive. It is commonly used in contexts involving environmental noise, such as construction, traffic, or loud sounds that interfere with daily activities.

Common Collocations

  • 소음 때문에 (because of noise): Used to explain a problem caused by noise.
  • 소음이 심하다 (noise is severe): Describes a high level of noise.
  • 소음을 줄이다 (reduce noise): Refers to actions taken to lower noise levels.

Register and Politeness

'소음' is a neutral noun and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. It is often found in news reports, complaints, and everyday conversation.

Usage Tips

When using '소음', speakers usually imply that the noise is bothersome or disruptive. It is often paired with verbs like '줄이다' (to reduce), '없애다' (to eliminate), or '참다' (to endure).

A common learner mistake is confusing '소음' with '소리' (sound). '소리' is a neutral term for any sound, while '소음' specifically refers to unpleasant or unwanted noise.

Example Sentences

공사 현장 근처에 살면 소음 때문에 잠을 잘 수 없어요.

Gongsa hyeonjang geuncheoe salmyeon soeum ttaemune jameul jal su eopseoyo.

If you live near a construction site, you can't sleep because of the noise.

이 소음은 집중하는 데 방해가 돼요.

I soeumeun jipjunghaneun de banghaega dwaeyo.

This noise interferes with concentrating.

소음을 줄이기 위해 창문을 닫아 주세요.

Soeumeul jurigi wihae changmuneul dada juseyo.

Please close the window to reduce the noise.