Meaning and Usage
The Korean word '선약' (seonyak) refers to a prior or previous engagement, appointment, or commitment that has been made before another event or invitation. It is commonly used to politely explain why one cannot attend a new invitation or reschedule an appointment.
Common Contexts
You will often hear '선약' in social or professional settings when someone needs to decline or postpone plans due to an existing commitment. It carries a polite and respectful tone, acknowledging the importance of the earlier arrangement.
Collocations and Patterns
- 선약이 있다: to have a prior engagement
- 선약 때문에: because of a prior engagement
- 선약이 겹치다: prior engagements overlap
These expressions help explain scheduling conflicts clearly and politely.
Usage Tips
When using '선약', it is common to follow it with an explanation or apology to maintain politeness. Avoid confusing '선약' with casual plans; it implies a confirmed and important prior commitment. This word is typically used in formal or semi-formal contexts rather than casual conversations.