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강도 — meaning in English: burglar

gangdo · Learn this word with quizzes, examples and more on Maspeak.

Guess the translation for strength
사랑
salang
강도
gangdo
신원
sin
항목
hangmog
커튼
keoteun
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neutral common
Usage
Native speakers use the word '강도' (gangdo) in conversations about crime or safety, often when discussing theft incidents. For example, one might say, '어제 우리 집에 강도가 들어왔다' (A burglar broke into our house yesterday) while recounting a personal experience or in a police report.
Synonyms & nuances
'강도' specifically refers to a burglar, often implying some degree of force or violence. In contrast, '도둑' (doduk) is a more general term for a thief and doesn’t necessarily denote the use of force. You would choose '강도' when emphasizing a break-in scenario versus a simple theft.
Culture
'강도' has its roots in the Chinese characters '强' (strong) and '盗' (thief), which together convey the idea of a strong thief. In South Korea, concerns about home security have made discussions about '강도' more prevalent, especially in urban areas. This word reflects societal worries about safety and the measures people take to protect their homes.
FAQ
Q.What is the difference between 강도 and 도둑?
'강도' refers specifically to a burglar who breaks into a place with the intention to steal, often implying force. In contrast, '도둑' is a broader term for a thief and can refer to anyone who steals, regardless of how they do it.
Q.How do you use 강도 in a sentence?
You can use '강도' in sentences like '강도가 잡혔다' (The burglar was caught) or '강도가 우리 집에 들어왔다' (A burglar broke into our house).
Q.Is 강도 a formal or informal word?
'강도' is considered a neutral term, suitable for both formal and informal contexts. It can be used in police reports, news articles, or casual conversations.
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