Level 6

석

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Meaning and Usage

The Korean word '석' primarily means 'seat' or 'a place to sit.' It is often used in formal or official contexts, such as in meetings, transportation, or events where seating arrangements matter.

Common Collocations

  • 회의석 (conference seat): used in business or formal meetings.
  • 기차석 (train seat): refers to seats on a train, often related to reservations.
  • 지정석 (assigned seat): a seat assigned to a person.

Additional Usage

Interestingly, '석' can also be used as a counter for months when combined with numbers, e.g., '석 달' means 'three months.' This usage is less common but important to recognize.

Register and Politeness

'석' is neutral in politeness but tends to appear in formal or written language rather than casual speech.

Common Mistakes

Learners sometimes confuse '석' with '석' meaning 'stone' (also pronounced 'seok') due to homophony. Context is key to distinguishing these meanings. When you see '석' related to seating or time periods, it refers to 'seat' or 'month(s).' When related to geology or materials, it means 'stone.'

Example Sentences

회의석에 앉아 중요한 발표를 들었다.

Hoeuiseoge anja jungyohan balpyo reul deureotda.

I sat in the conference seat and listened to an important presentation.

기차석 예약은 미리 해야 한다.

Gichaseok yeyak eun miri haeya handa.

Train seat reservations must be made in advance.

석 달 동안 열심히 공부했다.

Seok dal dongan yeolsimhi gongbuhaetda.

I studied hard for three months.