Level 4

자매

No base JSON record found for this token.

Meaning and Usage

The Korean word '자매' primarily means 'sisters,' referring to female siblings. It is commonly used to describe the relationship between two or more sisters in a family.

Extended Usage

Besides family, '자매' is also used metaphorically in business or organizations to describe 'sister companies' or 'sister organizations' that have a close relationship or partnership.

Common Collocations

  • 자매 사이: relationship between sisters
  • 자매 회사: sister company
  • 자매 결연: sisterhood alliance (often used in social or cultural contexts)

Register and Politeness

'자매' is a neutral term and can be used in both formal and informal contexts without any change in formality.

Learner Tips

A common confusion is mixing '자매' with '형제' (siblings including brothers). Remember, '자매' is exclusively for female siblings, while '형제' refers to brothers or siblings in general. Use '자매' when specifically talking about sisters to be precise.

Example Sentences

그들은 자매 사이가 아주 좋다.

Geudeureun jamae sai ga aju jota.

They have a very good relationship as sisters.

자매가 함께 여행을 갔다.

Jamae ga hamkke yeohaeng eul gatda.

The sisters went on a trip together.

그 회사는 자매 회사와 협력하고 있다.

Geu hoesa neun jamae hoesa wa hyeobryeok hago itda.

That company is cooperating with its sister company.