Meaning and Usage
The adjective '길다' primarily means 'to be long' in terms of physical length or duration. It is commonly used to describe objects, distances, or periods of time that extend beyond the usual or expected length.
Common Collocations
- 길다 + noun (e.g., 머리, 시간, 거리): Describes something physically or temporally long.
- 너무 길다: Emphasizes that something is excessively long.
- 길게 말하다: To speak at length.
Usage Notes
'길다' is a descriptive verb (adjective) and conjugates accordingly. It is often contrasted with '짧다' (to be short). When using '길다' to describe time, it implies that the duration feels extended, which can carry a positive or negative nuance depending on context.
Common Mistakes
Learners sometimes confuse '길다' with verbs that mean 'to take long' (e.g., 시간이 오래 걸리다). Remember, '길다' describes the state or quality of length, not the action of taking time.
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'길다' is neutral and used in both formal and informal contexts without change.