Meaning and Usage
"자세하다" means to be detailed or thorough in description or explanation. It is often used to emphasize that something is explained or presented with many specifics.
Common Contexts
You will frequently see "자세하다" in contexts like instructions, explanations, or reports where clarity and completeness are important.
Collocations and Patterns
- 자세하게 설명하다: to explain in detail
- 자세한 정보: detailed information
- 자세한 내용: detailed content
These collocations are common in both spoken and written Korean, especially in formal or semi-formal settings.
Register and Politeness
"자세하다" itself is neutral and can be used in various registers. When combined with polite endings like "-요" or "-습니다," it fits formal or polite speech.
Common Mistakes
Learners sometimes confuse "자세하다" with "자세히". "자세하다" is an adjective meaning "to be detailed," while "자세히" is an adverb meaning "in detail." For example, "자세히 설명하다" (to explain in detail) uses the adverb form.