Level 4

좌우

No base JSON record found for this token.

Meanings and Usage

The Korean word '좌우' has two main meanings. First, it refers to control or influence over something, often implying that one factor or person determines the outcome or direction of a situation. Second, it literally means 'left and right,' referring to the two sides or directions.

Common Contexts

When used in the sense of control or influence, '좌우하다' is a common verb form meaning 'to control' or 'to influence.' For example, '시장을 좌우하다' means 'to control the market.' This usage is often found in formal or written contexts.

In everyday conversation, '좌우' is frequently used when giving directions or describing spatial relationships, such as '좌우를 살피다' (to look left and right).

Collocations and Patterns

  • 좌우하다: to control or influence something
  • 좌우를 살피다: to look left and right
  • 좌우가 분명하다: to be clear on both sides

Register and Nuance

'좌우' is a neutral term but can sound formal when used in the sense of control. When referring to directions, it is common and neutral in daily speech.

Common Mistakes

Learners sometimes confuse '좌우' with just '왼쪽' (left) or '오른쪽' (right). Remember, '좌우' always refers to both sides together or the concept of influence, not a single side.

Understanding these nuances will help you use '좌우' accurately in various contexts.

Example Sentences

그 회사는 시장을 좌우하는 큰 영향력을 가지고 있다.

Geu hoesa-neun sijang-eul jwa-u-haneun keun yeonghyangryeok-eul gajigo itda.

That company has great influence that controls the market.

좌우를 잘 살펴서 길을 건너세요.

Jwau-reul jal salpyeoseo gil-eul geonneoseyo.

Look carefully to the left and right before crossing the street.

그 문제는 그의 결정에 좌우된다.

Geu munje-neun geuui gyeoljeong-e jwa-u-doenda.

That issue is determined by his decision.