Level 5

깨물다

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Meaning and Usage

The verb '깨물다' primarily means 'to bite' or 'to chomp' on something with the teeth. It often implies a deliberate or forceful bite, such as biting one's lip or clenching teeth.

Common Contexts

  • Biting food or objects: e.g., biting candy or an apple.
  • Expressing emotions: biting lips when nervous or anxious.
  • Habitual or unconscious actions: clenching or biting teeth under stress.

Collocations and Patterns

  • 입술을 깨물다: to bite one's lip, often showing nervousness or hesitation.
  • 이를 깨물다: to clench or bite one's teeth, commonly related to stress or anger.
  • 사탕을 깨물다: to bite candy, literal biting action.

Register and Politeness

'깨물다' is a standard verb used in everyday conversation and writing. It is neutral in politeness and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.

Common Learner Mistake

Learners sometimes confuse '깨물다' with '물다'. While both mean 'to bite', '깨물다' often implies a stronger or more deliberate bite, whereas '물다' is more general. Use '깨물다' when emphasizing the force or emotional context of biting.

Example Sentences

그는 긴장해서 입술을 깨물었다.

Geuneun ginjanghaeseo ipsureul kkaemureotda.

He bit his lip because he was nervous.

아이가 사탕을 깨물고 있었다.

Aiga satangeul kkaemulgo isseotda.

The child was biting a candy.

스트레스를 받을 때 이를 깨무는 습관이 있다.

Seuteureseureul badeul ttae ireul kkaemuneun seupgwan-i itda.

I have a habit of clenching my teeth when stressed.