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조각 — meaning in English: piece

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Guess the translation for sculpture
채널
chaeneol
조각
jogag
자금 조달
jageum jodal
이미지
imiji
세기
segi
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neutral common
Usage
Native speakers commonly use 조각 in everyday conversations when referring to physical pieces of something, like food or art. For example, you might hear it when someone is serving a piece of cake or discussing fragments of pottery at an exhibition.
Synonyms & nuances
A close synonym is '부분' (bubun), which means 'part.' However, 조각 emphasizes a physical segment or slice, while 부분 can refer to any segment of a whole, be it physical or abstract. You would choose 조각 when discussing something tangible, like a slice of pizza, rather than a conceptual part of a project.
Culture
The word 조각 comes from the Chinese character '雕刻', meaning to carve or sculpt. In Korean culture, pieces of art, especially traditional crafts, are highly valued, and the word 조각 reflects this appreciation for detail and craftsmanship. It's fascinating to note that 조각 is often used in phrases like '조각보', referring to patchwork fabric, highlighting the cultural significance of piecing together various elements.
FAQ
Q.What does 조각 mean in English?
조각 translates to 'piece' in English, often used to refer to a portion of something, whether it's food, art, or physical objects.
Q.Can you use 조각 for abstract concepts?
While 조각 typically refers to physical objects, it can sometimes be used metaphorically in phrases. However, for abstract ideas, words like '부분' (bubun) or '항목' (hangmok) are more appropriate.
Q.Are there any common phrases with 조각?
Yes! A common phrase is '조각 케이크' (jogak keikeu), meaning 'piece of cake.' This phrase is often used in social settings when discussing desserts.
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