형제 — meaning in English: brother

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

Guess the translation for brother

배경

baegyeong

곤충

gonchung

바구니

baguni

형제

hyeongje

세계

segye

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informal very common

Usage

Native Korean speakers often use the word 형제 (hyeongje) in family gatherings, casual conversations, or when speaking about their relationships with siblings. For example, during a family dinner, one might say, '형제와 함께 시간을 보내는 것이 좋아요,' which translates to 'I enjoy spending time with my brother.' It’s commonly used among friends when discussing their siblings as well.

Synonyms & nuances

A close synonym is 오빠 (oppa) when referring to an older brother, specifically for females. While 형제 (hyeongje) is more general and can refer to brothers in a broader sense, 오빠 carries a nuance of affection and respect, often used by younger sisters.

Culture

The word 형제 (hyeongje) reflects the strong familial bonds in Korean culture, where family hierarchy and respect are key values. Interestingly, the term is also used to denote a deeper sense of camaraderie among male friends, emphasizing loyalty and support, akin to 'brotherhood' in English. The affection associated with this word beautifully illustrates the importance of relationships in Korean society.

FAQ

Q.What does 형제 (hyeongje) mean in English?

형제 (hyeongje) translates to 'brother' in English. It refers to a male sibling and is commonly used in both formal and informal contexts in Korea.

Q.How do I use 형제 (hyeongje) in a sentence?

You can use 형제 (hyeongje) in sentences like, '저의 형제는 매우 친절해요,' which means 'My brother is very kind.' It's a versatile term for discussing your relationship with male siblings.

Q.Are there any common mistakes with 형제 (hyeongje)?

A common mistake is confusing 형제 (hyeongje) with 친구 (chingu), which means 'friend.' While both indicate close relationships, 형제 specifically refers to siblings, so using it incorrectly can lead to misunderstandings.

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