Level 5

사전

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Meaning and Usage

The Korean word '사전' primarily means 'preliminary' or 'beforehand.' It is often used to describe actions or preparations done in advance to ensure smooth progress or better outcomes.

Common Contexts

You will frequently encounter '사전' in contexts related to preparation, reservations, or research. For example, '사전 준비' (preliminary preparation), '사전 예약' (advance reservation), and '사전 조사' (prior research) are common collocations.

Register and Politeness

'사전' is a neutral noun and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. It is often combined with other nouns or verbs to form compound expressions.

Common Collocations

  • 사전 준비: preliminary preparation, used when emphasizing thoroughness before an event or task.
  • 사전 예약: advance reservation, common in service industries like hotels or restaurants.
  • 사전 조사: prior research, used in academic or professional settings.

Learner Tips

A common mistake is confusing '사전' with '사전' meaning 'dictionary' (same spelling but different meaning). Context will clarify which meaning is intended. When used as 'preliminary,' it usually appears in compound nouns related to preparation or planning.

Example Sentences

사전 준비가 철저해야 행사가 잘 진행됩니다.

Sajeon junbiga cheoljeohaeya haengsaga jal jinhaengdoemnida.

Thorough preliminary preparation is necessary for the event to go well.

사전 예약을 하면 할인 혜택을 받을 수 있습니다.

Sajeon yeyageul hamyeon halin hyetaekeul badeul su itsseumnida.

If you make a reservation in advance, you can get a discount.

사전 조사 없이 발표를 준비하는 것은 위험합니다.

Sajeon josa eopsi balpyo reul junbihaneun geoseun wihyeomhapnida.

Preparing a presentation without prior research is risky.