Meaning and Usage
The verb '저지르다' primarily means 'to commit' or 'to do' something wrong or negative, such as a crime, mistake, or fault. It is often used in contexts involving errors, crimes, or misdeeds.
Common Contexts
- Crimes: 범죄를 저지르다 (commit a crime)
- Mistakes: 실수를 저지르다 (make a mistake)
- Other faults or misdeeds
Register and Politeness
'저지르다' is a standard verb used in both spoken and written Korean. It is neutral in formality but often appears in formal contexts when discussing crimes or serious mistakes.
Common Collocations
- 실수를 저지르다: to make a mistake
- 범죄를 저지르다: to commit a crime
- 잘못을 저지르다: to commit a fault
Learner Tips
A common confusion is mixing '저지르다' with more neutral verbs like '하다' (to do). '저지르다' specifically implies a negative or wrongful action, so avoid using it for neutral or positive actions. For example, you wouldn't say '저지르다' for doing homework or cooking.
Understanding this nuance will help you use '저지르다' appropriately in conversations about mistakes or crimes.