ssang

A pair,couple

TOPIK 4

Meaning and Usage

The Korean word '쌍' primarily means 'a pair' or 'a couple.' It is used to describe two items that naturally come together or are matched, such as shoes, gloves, or twins.

Common Collocations

  • 쌍 신발 (pair of shoes): Refers to two shoes that make a pair.
  • 쌍둥이 (twins): Used to describe twin siblings.
  • 쌍으로 (in pairs): Indicates something is in pairs or doubles.

Usage Notes

'쌍' is often used in everyday conversation when referring to paired objects or people. It can also appear in compound words like '쌍둥이' (twins). When using '쌍' with nouns, it often precedes the noun to emphasize the pair.

Common Mistakes

Learners sometimes confuse '쌍' with '짝,' which also means 'pair' but is more commonly used for matching partners or pairs in a social context. '쌍' is more physical or concrete pairs, while '짝' can imply a partner or match in a broader sense.

Example Sentences

이 쌍의 신발은 정말 편해요.

I ssang-ui sinbal-eun jeongmal pyeonhaeyo.

This pair of shoes is really comfortable.

쌍둥이 형제가 어제 집에 왔어요.

Ssangdungi hyeongje-ga eoje jib-e wasseoyo.

The twin brothers came home yesterday.

쌍으로 된 안경을 샀어요.

Ssang-euro doen angyeong-eul sass-eoyo.

I bought glasses with double lenses.