neutral
common
Usage
Native speakers often use the word 여성 when discussing topics related to gender, such as in academic settings, media discussions, or everyday conversations. For example, you might hear it in a news program addressing women's rights or in a casual conversation about female role models.
Synonyms & nuances
A close synonym is 여자 (yeoja), which also means 'woman' or 'female'. However, 여성 is often used in formal contexts like legal or social discussions, while 여자 might appear more in casual settings.
Culture
The word 여성 has deep cultural significance in Korea, especially as the country has seen a growing movement for women's rights and gender equality. Etymologically, 여성 combines the characters 여 (yeo), which means 'female', and 성 (seong), meaning 'nature' or 'gender', reflecting the word's roots in understanding gender identity in a cultural context.
FAQ
Q.What does 여성 mean in English?
여성 translates to 'female' in English, referring specifically to gender in various contexts such as biological or social discussions.
Q.How is 여성 used in a sentence?
You could say, '여성의 권리가 중요합니다,' which means 'The rights of women are important.' This illustrates the word's use in discussing gender issues.
Q.Are there any common mistakes when using 여성?
One common mistake is using 여성 interchangeably with 여자 in all contexts. Remember that 여성 is more formal and appropriate for discussions on gender equality, while 여자 is suitable for general or casual conversations.