Level 5

겉모습

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Meaning and Usage

The word '겉모습' refers to the external appearance or outward look of a person, object, or place. It is often used when contrasting what is visible on the outside with what lies beneath or inside.

Common Contexts

'겉모습' is frequently used in everyday conversation to discuss appearances, especially when implying that appearances can be deceiving or do not tell the whole story.

Collocations and Patterns

  • 겉모습만 보다: to look only at the appearance, often implying superficial judgment.
  • 겉모습과 다르다: to be different from the appearance, used to highlight contrast.
  • 겉모습은 ~지만: the appearance is ~ but..., used to introduce a contrast between appearance and reality.

Register and Nuance

This word is neutral in formality and can be used in both spoken and written Korean. It carries a slightly cautionary nuance, reminding listeners not to rely solely on appearances.

Common Mistakes

Learners sometimes confuse '겉모습' with '외모' (appearance, especially physical looks). '외모' focuses more on physical attractiveness or features, while '겉모습' is broader, including general outward appearance or condition.

Example Sentences

사람은 겉모습만 보고 판단해서는 안 된다.

Saram-eun geotmoseup-man bogo pandanhaeseo-neun an doenda.

You shouldn't judge a person just by their appearance.

이 집은 겉모습은 낡았지만 내부는 아주 깨끗하다.

I jip-eun geotmoseup-eun nalk-assjiman naebu-neun aju kkaekkeuthada.

This house looks old on the outside, but the inside is very clean.

겉모습과 달리 그는 매우 친절한 사람이다.

Geotmoseup-gwa dalli geuneun maeu chinjeolhan saram-ida.

Contrary to his appearance, he is a very kind person.