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고양이 — meaning in English: cat

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

Guess the translation for cat
발표
balpyo
ki
고양이
goyang
트럭
teuleog
자본
jabon
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informal very common
Usage
Native speakers use the word 고양이 (goyang) in various everyday situations, such as when discussing pets or referring to cats in casual conversations. For example, you might hear someone say, '내 고양이가 매우 귀여워요' (My cat is very cute) while chatting with friends at home or at a pet store.
Synonyms & nuances
A close synonym is feline (고양이과, goyangigwa), which refers to the family of cats but is more technical. You would use 고양이 (goyang) in everyday conversation, while 고양이과 (goyangigwa) might be used in scientific discussions about animal classifications.
Culture
The word 고양이 (goyang) has interesting roots, tracing back to Middle Korean. Cats have a special place in Korean culture, often symbolizing good fortune and protection against evil spirits. In recent years, cats have become increasingly popular as pets in South Korea, leading to a flourishing cat café culture where people can enjoy the company of these furry friends.
FAQ
Q.How do you say 'cat' in Korean?
The word for 'cat' in Korean is 고양이 (goyang). It's commonly used in everyday conversation when referring to these beloved pets.
Q.What is the plural of 고양이?
In Korean, the plural form is often implied through context, so you would still use 고양이 (goyang) to refer to multiple cats. For clarity, you might specify by saying '고양이들' (goyangideul) to explicitly indicate 'cats.'
Q.Are there any common phrases with the word 고양이?
Yes! A common phrase is '고양이를 키우다' (goyangireul kiuda), which means 'to raise a cat.' This phrase can come up in discussions about pet ownership.
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