시간 — meaning in English: time

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Guess the translation for hour

도움

doum

불꽃

bulkkoch

시

시스템

siseutem

시간

sigan

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neutral very common

Usage

Native speakers often use the word '시간' in daily conversations when discussing their schedule or plans. For example, a student might ask a friend, '몇 시에 만날까?' (What time should we meet?), indicating practical scenarios in school or social settings.

Synonyms & nuances

A close synonym is '때' (ttae), which translates to 'moment' or 'time' in a more specific context. While '시간' refers broadly to the concept of time, '때' emphasizes particular instances or occasions, making it ideal for phrases like '그때' (at that time).

Culture

'시간' is derived from the Sino-Korean word '時' (si), which means 'time' or 'moment.' In Korean culture, time management is deeply valued, and expressions related to time are often used in business and academic settings, reflecting the importance placed on punctuality and efficiency.

FAQ

Q.How do you say 'what time is it?' in Korean?

'What time is it?' in Korean is '지금 몇 시예요?' (jigeum myeot siyeyo?). This is a common way to inquire about the current time in casual conversations.

Q.Can '시간' be used in formal writing?

Yes, '시간' is appropriate for both spoken and written contexts, including formal writing. It is versatile and widely accepted in various registers.

Q.What are some common phrases with '시간'?

Common phrases include '시간이 없다' (I don’t have time) and '시간이 걸리다' (It takes time). These idiomatic expressions are frequently used in everyday speech.

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