Level 6

차

No base JSON record found for this token.

Meaning and Usage

The Korean noun '차' primarily means 'difference' or 'gap' and is used to describe distinctions between quantities, qualities, times, or conditions. It is a common word in both formal and informal contexts.

Common Collocations

  • 시간 차 (time difference): Used when referring to differences in time, such as time zones or delays.
  • 온도 차 (temperature difference): Describes the difference in temperature between two places or times.
  • 가격 차 (price difference): Refers to the difference in cost between items.

Usage Notes

'차' often appears in expressions comparing two things or situations. It can be used with counters or nouns to specify the type of difference. Be careful not to confuse '차' (difference) with '차' (car), which is a homonym but different in meaning and context.

Common Mistake

Learners sometimes confuse '차' meaning 'difference' with '차' meaning 'car' (車). Context usually clarifies the meaning, but when speaking or writing, pay attention to the surrounding words to avoid misunderstanding.

Example Sentences

두 사람 사이에는 큰 차이가 있다.

Du saram sai-eneun keun chaiga itda.

There is a big difference between the two people.

시간 차 때문에 약속에 늦었다.

Sigan cha ttaemune yaksoge neut-eotda.

I was late for the appointment because of the time difference.

온도 차가 크면 감기에 걸리기 쉽다.

Ondo chaga keumyeon gamgie geolligi swipda.

If the temperature difference is big, it’s easy to catch a cold.