Level 5

소변

sobyeon

Number one, urination

TOPIK 5

Meaning and Usage

The word '소변' specifically refers to urine or the act of urination in a medical or everyday context. It is a formal term often used in health-related conversations, medical examinations, or polite speech about bodily functions.

Common Contexts

You will frequently encounter '소변' in hospitals or clinics, especially when discussing tests or symptoms. It is also used in polite requests or advice related to going to the bathroom.

Collocations and Patterns

  • 소변 검사 (urine test): a common medical examination.
  • 소변을 참다 (to hold urine): used when someone is trying not to urinate.
  • 소변 색깔 (urine color): often discussed in health contexts.

Register and Politeness

'소변' is more formal and polite compared to colloquial terms like '오줌'. It is appropriate in formal speech, medical settings, and polite conversation.

Common Mistakes

Learners sometimes confuse '소변' with '오줌', which is more casual and childlike. Use '소변' in formal or medical contexts to sound natural and respectful.

Example Sentences

소변을 참지 말고 화장실에 가세요.

Sobyeoneul chamji malgo hwajangsil-e gaseyo.

Don't hold your urine; go to the bathroom.

의사는 소변 검사를 통해 건강 상태를 확인했다.

Uisaneun sobyeon geomsa-reul tonghae geongang sangtaereul hwakinhaetda.

The doctor checked the health condition through a urine test.

소변 색깔이 이상하면 병원에 가는 것이 좋다.

Sobyeon saekkkal-i isanghamyeon byeongwon-e ganeun geosi jota.

If the color of your urine is unusual, it's better to go to the hospital.