Meaning and Usage
The verb '아끼다' primarily means to cherish, to spare, or to save. It is commonly used when talking about saving money, time, or resources, but also expresses emotional value such as cherishing relationships or moments.
Common Contexts
- Saving money or resources: 아끼다 is often used to describe careful spending or saving.
- Valuing time or relationships: It can express not wanting to waste or lose precious time or bonds.
Collocations and Patterns
- 돈을 아끼다: to save money
- 시간을 아끼다: to spare or value time
- 아끼지 않다: to not spare (often used to encourage giving or spending freely)
Register and Nuance
'아끼다' is neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. It conveys a positive attitude toward saving or valuing something.
Common Mistake
Learners sometimes confuse '아끼다' with '아프다' (to hurt) due to similar sounds. Remember '아끼다' relates to saving or cherishing, not pain.