거울 — meaning in English: mirror

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

Guess the translation for mirror

문자열

munjayeol

거울

geoul

현실

hyeonsil

사건

sageon

시작

sijag

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neutral very common

Usage

Native speakers use the word 거울 in everyday situations, such as when getting ready in the morning or checking their appearance. You'll often hear it in beauty salons or clothing stores, where individuals might ask for a mirror to see how an outfit looks.

Synonyms & nuances

A close synonym for 거울 is 반사경 (bansagyeong), which specifically refers to a reflective surface or glass. However, 거울 is the more commonly used term in everyday conversation, especially when referring to the mirrors found in homes and public spaces.

Culture

The word 거울 reflects not only the physical object but also the concept of self-reflection in Korean culture. Mirrors have historical significance, often associated with beauty and self-awareness, and traditional mirrors were sometimes made of polished metal instead of glass, symbolizing clarity and insight.

FAQ

Q.What is the pronunciation of the word 거울?

The word 거울 is pronounced as 'geoul' in English phonetics. The 'eo' sound is similar to the 'u' in 'cup,' making it a unique sound for English speakers.

Q.Are there different types of mirrors in Korean?

Yes, there are specific terms for different types of mirrors, such as 화장 거울 (hwajang geoul) for a makeup mirror and 전신 거울 (jeonsin geoul) for a full-length mirror. Knowing these distinctions can help in various contexts.

Q.Can I use 거울 in idiomatic expressions?

While 거울 is primarily used in a literal sense, it can also appear in idiomatic expressions related to self-reflection or evaluation. Be mindful that idiomatic usage may vary, and contexts will determine the appropriateness.

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