neutral
very common
Usage
Native speakers often use the word 사람들 (salamdeul) in everyday conversations to refer to groups of individuals. For instance, you might hear it during a discussion about a community event, such as '많은 사람들 (manheun salamdeul)' meaning 'many people' attending a festival or a meeting.
Synonyms & nuances
A close synonym is 인류 (inryu), which means 'humankind.' However, 사람들 (salamdeul) is more casual and commonly used in day-to-day conversations, while 인류 (inryu) may appear in academic or philosophical contexts.
Culture
The word 사람들 (salamdeul) is derived from 사람 (salam), meaning 'person,' with the suffix 들 (deul) indicating plurality. This linguistic structure reflects the Korean language's tendency to form nouns in a way that emphasizes community and social interaction, which is a significant aspect of Korean culture.
FAQ
Q.What does 사람들 mean in English?
사람들 (salamdeul) translates to 'people' in English. It's used to refer to a group or community of individuals.
Q.How do you pronounce 사람들?
It is pronounced as 'salamdeul', with emphasis on the first syllable 'sala' and a soft 'deul' at the end.
Q.Can you use 사람들 in a formal context?
Yes, 사람들 (salamdeul) can be used in both formal and informal contexts, making it a versatile word for conversations about groups of individuals.