Level 6

소유하다

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Meaning and Usage

The verb '소유하다' means 'to possess' or 'to own' something tangible or intangible, such as property, rights, or objects. It is a formal verb often used in written language, legal contexts, or formal speech.

Common Contexts

You will frequently see '소유하다' used when talking about ownership of real estate, patents, vehicles, or other assets. It emphasizes legal or official possession rather than casual holding.

Collocations and Patterns

  • 소유하다 + object: to own or possess something.
  • 재산을 소유하다: to own property or assets.
  • 권리를 소유하다: to hold rights.

Register and Politeness

'소유하다' is a formal verb and is less common in casual conversation, where verbs like '가지다' (to have) might be used instead.

Common Learner Mistake

Learners sometimes confuse '소유하다' with '가지다'. While both can mean 'to have', '소유하다' stresses legal ownership or possession, whereas '가지다' is more general and can mean simply to carry or have something temporarily.

Example Sentences

그는 여러 채의 집을 소유하고 있다.

Geuneun yeoreo chaeui jibeul soyu hago itda.

He owns several houses.

이 회사는 특허를 소유하고 있다.

I hoesa neun teukheoreul soyu hago itda.

This company holds the patent.

사람들은 자신의 재산을 소유하는 것을 중요하게 생각한다.

Saramdeureun jasinui jaesaneul soyu haneun geoseul jungyohage saenggak handa.

People consider it important to possess their own property.