Meaning and Usage
The Korean word '강도' primarily means 'intensity' or 'strength' in contexts like natural phenomena, physical effort, or abstract concepts. However, it also commonly refers to a 'robber' or 'robbery' in a criminal context. This dual meaning is important to recognize to avoid confusion.
Common Contexts
- Natural phenomena: describing the strength of earthquakes, storms, or other forces.
- Physical activity: indicating how hard or intense an exercise or effort is.
- Crime: referring to a person who commits robbery or the act of robbery itself.
Collocations and Patterns
- 강도 높다: to have high intensity (used for earthquakes, emotions, etc.)
- 강도 조절하다: to adjust intensity (common in exercise or work)
- 강도 사건: robbery case (used in news or police reports)
- 강도를 당하다: to be robbed (passive expression)
Register and Politeness
'강도' is a neutral noun used in both formal and informal contexts. When referring to a criminal, it is a standard term used in news, police reports, and everyday conversation.
Common Learner Mistake
Learners sometimes confuse '강도' only with 'intensity' and miss its meaning as 'robber.' Context is key. For example, '강도를 만나다' means 'to encounter a robber,' not 'to meet intensity.' Always consider the surrounding words to understand the intended meaning.