Meaning and Usage
The Korean noun '욕' primarily means 'desire' or 'greed' in a neutral or negative sense, depending on context. It can refer to natural human wants or excessive greed. However, '욕' also commonly means 'swear words' or 'cursing' in everyday language, which is a different meaning not covered here but important to note.
Common Collocations
- 욕심 (yoksim): greed or strong desire, often with a negative nuance.
- 욕을 하다 (yok-eul hada): to swear or curse (different meaning).
- 욕구 (yokgu): desire or craving, often used in psychological or formal contexts.
Usage Notes
When using '욕' to mean desire, it often appears in compound words like '욕심' or '욕구'. It can express both natural desires and excessive greed. Be careful not to confuse this with the homonym '욕' meaning 'swearing'.
Common Mistakes
Learners sometimes confuse '욕' meaning desire with '욕' meaning swear words. Context usually clarifies the meaning, but be mindful especially in spoken Korean. When talking about desires, '욕심' is more commonly used than '욕' alone.
Register
'욕' as desire is neutral to slightly formal and often appears in written or formal speech, especially in compounds. The swearing meaning is informal and colloquial.