Meaning and Usage
The verb '합격하다' specifically means 'to pass an exam' or 'to succeed in a test or qualification.' It is commonly used in educational and professional contexts when someone successfully meets the requirements of an examination.
Common Contexts
You will often hear '합격하다' in relation to school entrance exams, job qualification tests, driver's license exams, and other official assessments. It implies a positive outcome after evaluation.
Collocations and Patterns
- 합격하다 + 시험 (to pass an exam): The most common collocation.
- 합격 통지서 (passing notification): The official document confirming success.
- 합격자 발표 (announcement of successful candidates): Used when results are announced.
Register and Politeness
'합격하다' is neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. When speaking politely, it is often combined with polite endings like '-었어요' or '-습니다.'
Common Mistakes
Learners sometimes confuse '합격하다' with '통과하다,' which also means 'to pass.' However, '통과하다' is more general and can refer to passing through places or stages, while '합격하다' is specifically about passing exams or qualifications.