Level 5

수수께끼

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Meaning and Usage

The word '수수께끼' refers to a riddle or puzzle, often something mysterious or difficult to understand. It is commonly used in both literal and figurative contexts.

Common Contexts

  1. Literal riddles or brain teasers, especially popular in children's games or educational settings.
  2. Figurative use to describe something or someone mysterious or puzzling.

Collocations and Patterns

  • 수수께끼를 풀다: to solve a riddle or puzzle.
  • 수수께끼 같다: to be like a mystery, describing something puzzling.
  • 수수께끼를 내다: to pose or give a riddle.

Register and Nuance

'수수께끼' is a neutral noun suitable for everyday conversation and writing. It is neither formal nor informal but fits well in casual and educational contexts.

Common Learner Mistake

Learners sometimes confuse '수수께끼' with '문제' (problem or question). While '문제' can be any question or problem, '수수께끼' specifically implies a riddle or something mysterious that requires clever thinking to solve.

Example Sentences

어린이들이 수수께끼를 풀면서 즐거워했다.

Eorinideuri susukkekkireul pulmyeonseo jeulgeowohatda.

The children enjoyed solving the riddles.

그의 행동은 마치 수수께끼 같다.

Geuui haengdong eun machi susukkekki gatda.

His behavior is like a mystery.

수수께끼를 내서 친구들과 함께 맞히는 게임을 했다.

Susukkekkireul naeseo chingudeulgwa hamkke matchineun geimeul haetta.

We played a game where we gave riddles and guessed them with friends.