Meaning and Usage
The Korean noun '의무' (uimu) refers to a duty or obligation that someone is expected or required to fulfill. It often appears in formal or official contexts, such as legal, social, or organizational responsibilities.
Common Contexts
'의무' is frequently used when talking about responsibilities of citizens, students, employees, or organizations. For example, voting as a citizen or following rules as a student are typical obligations.
Collocations and Patterns
- 의무를 지다: to bear or have a duty
- 의무를 다하다: to fulfill one's duty
- 법적 의무: legal obligation
- 사회적 의무: social responsibility
These collocations help express the nature or extent of the obligation.
Register and Politeness
'의무' is a formal noun and is commonly used in written language, official documents, and formal speech. It is less common in casual conversation unless discussing serious topics.
Common Mistakes
Learners sometimes confuse '의무' with '권리' (right). Remember, '의무' means what you must do, while '권리' means what you are entitled to do or have. Using them interchangeably can cause misunderstandings.