Meaning and Usage
The verb '들리다' primarily means 'to be heard' or 'to be audible.' It is often used when something can be heard by the listener, either clearly or faintly. It is a passive form related to the verb '듣다' (to listen).
Common Contexts
- Describing sounds that reach the ear naturally, like voices, music, or noises.
- Expressing that someone's words or feelings are perceived or understood emotionally.
- Used in everyday conversation to indicate whether something is audible or not.
Collocations and Patterns
- '소리가 들리다' (a sound is heard): the most common collocation to talk about hearing sounds.
- '잘 들리다' (to be heard well): used to express clarity of sound.
- '들리지 않다' (not be heard): to indicate inaudibility.
Register and Politeness
'들리다' is neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. It is often found in spoken and written Korean.
Common Learner Mistake
Learners sometimes confuse '들리다' with '듣다.' Remember, '듣다' is an active verb meaning 'to listen,' while '들리다' is passive, meaning 'to be heard.' Use '들리다' when focusing on the sound reaching the ear, not the act of listening.