Meaning and Usage
The Korean noun '복수' primarily means 'revenge' or 'vengeance.' It refers to the act of retaliating against someone who has caused harm or offense. This word is often used in serious or emotional contexts, such as stories, movies, or personal conflicts.
Common Collocations
- 복수를 다짐하다: to vow revenge
- 복수를 하다: to take revenge
- 복수심: the feeling or desire for revenge
These collocations highlight how '복수' is commonly paired with verbs or nouns that express intention or emotion.
Register and Nuance
'복수' is a formal noun and is used in both spoken and written Korean. It carries a strong emotional weight and is not used lightly. When discussing revenge in casual conversation, people might use simpler expressions, but '복수' remains the standard term.
Common Confusion
A common mistake is confusing '복수' with '보복,' which also means retaliation but is more formal and often used in legal or political contexts. '복수' is more personal and emotional, while '보복' implies official or systematic retaliation.
Understanding '복수' helps learners express complex emotions related to justice and personal grievance in Korean.