동료 — meaning in English: colleague

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

Guess the translation for fellow

통찰력

tongchallyeog

친구

chingu

달

dal

만

man

동료

donglyo

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neutral common

Usage

Native speakers use the word 동료 in professional settings like offices, meetings, or collaborative projects. For instance, during a team lunch, one might say, 'My 동료 and I are working on a presentation together.' It's also common to refer to 동료 in casual conversations about work experiences or achievements.

Synonyms & nuances

A close synonym for 동료 is 동반자 (dongbanja), which means 'companion' but carries a broader connotation of partnership. While 동료 specifically refers to colleagues in a work context, 동반자 may be used to describe a partner in various situations, including friendship or companionship.

Culture

The term 동료 reflects the importance of community and teamwork in Korean culture. Historically, the concept of working together as 동료 has roots in Confucian values, emphasizing harmony and mutual respect in professional relationships. This word highlights the collaborative spirit that is often celebrated in Korean workplaces.

FAQ

Q.How do you pronounce 동료?

동료 is pronounced as 'dong-lyo.' The 'dong' sounds like 'dong' in English, and 'lyo' rhymes with 'yo.' Practice saying it slowly, then gradually speed up.

Q.Can I use 동료 in informal situations?

Yes, 동료 is a neutral term, making it suitable for both formal and informal contexts. You can comfortably use it when talking about your colleagues in casual conversations.

Q.What are common mistakes when using 동료?

A common mistake is using 동료 too broadly. Remember, it specifically refers to work colleagues, so avoid using it for friends or family. In those cases, words like 친구 (chingu) for 'friend' would be more appropriate.

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Korean 2000