배우 — meaning in English: Actor

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

Guess the translation for actor

목적

mogjeog

배우

baeu

캐리어

kaelieo

홈

hom

오염

oyeom

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neutral very common

Usage

Native speakers use the word 배우 in contexts like casual conversations about movies, television shows, or theater, often discussing popular figures in the industry. For instance, one might say, '그 배우 정말 멋있어요,' meaning 'That actor is really cool,' when admiring a performance or discussing a recent film.

Synonyms & nuances

A close synonym is 연기자 (yeongi-ja), which also means 'actor.' However, 배우 is more commonly used in everyday speech, while 연기자 may sound a bit more formal or literary. You would use 배우 when casually discussing someone’s role in entertainment and 연기자 when referring to their profession in a more serious context.

Culture

The word 배우 is derived from the Chinese characters 演員 (yeonywon), which also means 'actor' in Chinese. In South Korea, the entertainment industry has seen a massive boom, making 배우 not just a job title but a symbol of fame and influence in modern culture. Many 배우 are celebrated not only for their acting skills but also for their impact on fashion and social trends.

FAQ

Q.What is the pronunciation of 배우?

배우 is pronounced as 'baeu.' It’s important to listen to native speakers to grasp the correct intonation, as pronunciation can affect meaning.

Q.Can 배우 refer to both male and female actors?

Yes, 배우 is a gender-neutral term in Korean. It can refer to both male and female actors without any changes to the word.

Q.Is 배우 used in formal contexts?

배우 is primarily used in neutral or informal contexts. In formal settings, you might encounter 연기자 instead, especially in written or official discussions about the acting profession.

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