Meaning and Usage
The Korean word '기호' has two main meanings: it can refer to a person's taste or preference (especially in food or style), and it can also mean a symbol or sign used in various contexts such as voting, warnings, or notation.
Common Contexts
When talking about personal likes or dislikes, '기호' is often used to describe preferences in food, fashion, or hobbies. For example, "음식에 대한 기호" means "taste in food."
In formal or official contexts, '기호' frequently refers to symbols or signs, such as those used on ballots or warning labels.
Collocations and Patterns
- 기호가 다르다: to have different tastes or preferences
- 기호를 표시하다: to mark or indicate a symbol
- 위험 기호: danger symbol
- 투표 기호: voting symbol
Register and Usage Notes
'기호' is a neutral noun used in both everyday and formal language. When referring to tastes, it is often used in more formal or written contexts rather than casual speech.
Common Confusion
Learners sometimes confuse '기호' with '취향' (preference) or '맛' (taste). '기호' emphasizes a general liking or symbolic sign, while '취향' is more about personal preference and '맛' specifically refers to flavor.