소설 — meaning in English: novel

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

Guess the translation for novel

행성

haengseong

존경

jongyeong

모자

moja

소설

soseol

산

san

Skip this question

🎓

Learn Korean for free

Quizzes, examples, audio & daily challenges. No password needed — just your email.

Start learning →

Already have an account? Log in

neutral common

Usage

Native speakers often use the word 소설 when discussing literature, particularly in book clubs or classrooms. You might hear it in casual conversations about favorite authors or while recommending a good read to a friend.

Synonyms & nuances

A close synonym for 소설 is 이야기 (iyagi), which means 'story,' but 이야기 can refer to any tale, while 소설 specifically denotes a written work of fiction. You would choose 소설 when talking about a book-length narrative as opposed to a simple anecdote.

Culture

The term 소설 has roots in the Chinese characters 設 (set) and 叟 (so), which together convey the idea of storytelling. In South Korea, novels have played a significant role in shaping modern literature, influencing both film and television, especially with the rise of webtoons and adaptations.

FAQ

Q.What is the meaning of 소설?

소설 translates to 'novel' in English and refers specifically to a long fictional narrative. It's commonly used in discussions about literature.

Q.How do you use 소설 in a sentence?

You can use 소설 in a sentence like: '나는 새로운 소설을 읽고 있어요,' meaning 'I am reading a new novel.' This helps illustrate its context in everyday conversation.

Q.Are there any common mistakes when using 소설?

One common mistake is confusing 소설 with 시 (si), which means 'poem.' While both are forms of literature, they represent very different styles and structures.

Learn korean with Maspeak →

Korean 2000