의사 — meaning in English: doctor

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Guess the translation for doctor

시트

siteu

생일

saeng

내용

naeyong

의사

uisa

분할

bunhal

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neutral very common

Usage

Native speakers use the word 의사 when discussing healthcare matters, especially in contexts involving medical consultations or emergencies. For example, one might say, '의사가 필요해요' ('I need a doctor') when feeling unwell or during a hospital visit.

Synonyms & nuances

A close synonym is '진료사' (jinryosa), which refers more specifically to a clinician or someone who provides direct medical treatment. You would choose 의사 when referring to doctors in a broader sense, including specialists and general practitioners.

Culture

The term 의사 is derived from the Hanja 医師, where 医 (u) means 'medicine' and 師 (sa) means 'master' or 'teacher.' This reflects the high regard for doctors in Korean culture, who are often seen as pivotal figures in maintaining public health and well-being. Interestingly, the word has evolved alongside Korea's healthcare advancements, marking the journey from traditional remedies to modern medical practices.

FAQ

Q.What is the difference between 의사 and 의사선생님?

The term 의사선생님 (uisaseonsaengnim) combines 의사 with a respectful title, translating to 'Doctor' in a more formal context. You would use 의사 in casual conversation, while 의사선생님 is often used in respectful or formal contexts, especially when referring to someone's doctor.

Q.How do you pronounce 의사 correctly?

The correct pronunciation of 의사 is 'uisa', with the 'ui' pronounced as one syllable, similar to the 'wee' sound in English, and 'sa' pronounced like 'sah'. Listening to native speakers will help you master the nuances of the pronunciation.

Q.When should I use 의사 instead of 병원?

Use 의사 when referring specifically to a doctor as a person, while 병원 (byeongwon) refers to the hospital or clinic itself. For example, say '의사와 상담했어요' ('I consulted with the doctor') rather than using 병원 in this context.

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