시간 — meaning in English: time

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

Guess the translation for duration

교육 과정

gyoyug gwajeong

자존심

jajonsim

해상도

haesangdo

사임

saim

시간

sigan

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neutral very common

Usage

Native speakers use the word 시간 (sigan) in various everyday situations, such as scheduling a meeting or discussing plans for the day. For example, someone might say, '시간이 있나요?' (Do you have time?) when trying to set up a lunch date.

Synonyms & nuances

A closely related term is '때' (tte), which can also mean 'time' but is often used to refer to a particular moment or occasion. Use 시간 (sigan) when discussing duration or general concepts of time, while 때 (tte) is more about specific instances.

Culture

The word 시간 (sigan) has roots in ancient concepts of time, reflecting not just the measurement of seconds and minutes but also the cultural significance of timing in Korean society. Punctuality is highly valued, and the phrase '정확한 시간' (jeonghwakhan sigan), meaning 'exact time,' emphasizes the importance of being on time in both personal and professional contexts.

FAQ

Q.What is the meaning of 시간 in English?

시간 (sigan) translates to 'time' in English. It refers to the concept of time as a measurable period during which events occur.

Q.How do you use 시간 in a sentence?

You can use 시간 in sentences like, '지금 시간이 있어요?' (Do you have time now?) or '시간이 너무 빨리 가요.' (Time goes by too quickly.)

Q.Are there any common mistakes when using 시간?

A common mistake is using 시간을 (siganeul) incorrectly with verbs that imply specific instances rather than duration. For example, saying '나는 시간을 보냈다' (I spent time) is correct, but using it with '때' (tte) instead of '시간' can confuse the meaning.

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