Meaning and Usage
The verb '용서하다' means 'to forgive' or 'to pardon' someone for a mistake or wrongdoing. It is commonly used in both personal and formal contexts when expressing forgiveness.
Common Collocations
- 용서하다 + 죄 (to forgive a sin/crime): often used in religious or moral contexts.
- 용서하지 못하다 (to be unable to forgive): expresses strong resentment or unforgiveness.
- 용서해 주세요 (please forgive me): a polite request for forgiveness.
Register and Politeness
'용서하다' is a neutral verb and can be used in both formal and informal speech. Adding polite endings like '-요' or '-십시오' adjusts the politeness level.
Usage Tips
When using '용서하다', the object is usually the person or the fault being forgiven. Be careful not to confuse it with '사과하다' which means 'to apologize'. '용서하다' focuses on the act of forgiving, not apologizing.
Common Mistake
Learners sometimes misuse '용서하다' to mean 'to excuse' in casual contexts. Remember, '용서하다' implies a deeper moral or emotional forgiveness rather than just overlooking a minor fault.