Processing keyword: ~남짓 [namjit] (About, around)

Korean Grammar Point: ~남짓 [namjit] (About, around)

1. Introduction

In Korean, expressing approximate quantities is common in daily conversations. One such grammar point used to indicate "about" or "around" a certain number is ~남짓 (namjit). Understanding how to use ~남짓 will help you describe approximate amounts or durations more naturally in Korean.

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2. Core Grammar Explanation

Meaning

~남짓 is used to indicate that the amount or number mentioned is slightly more than the stated figure. It conveys the sense of "a little over," "about," or "around."

Structure

The grammar pattern is formed by attaching ~남짓 directly after a noun indicating quantity or number. Formation:

[Quantity Noun] + 남짓

Diagram

Component	Description
Quantity Noun	Number or amount
+ 남짓	Indicates "a little over"

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3. Comparative Analysis

Comparison with Similar Grammar Points

• 정도 (jeongdo): Means "approximately" or "about," used for general approximation without specifying over or under.
• 가량 (garyang): Similar to ~정도, used to indicate approximation.
• 여 (yeo): Indicates "over" or "more than" a certain number. Differences:
• ~남짓 specifically means "a little over" the stated number.
• 정도/가량 are neutral, meaning "about" or "approximately."
• ~여 means "over" or "more than," without specifying "a little."

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4. Examples in Context

Example Sentences

1. 그 회의에는 스무 명 남짓 참석했어요.
   • About twenty people attended the meeting.
2. 공연이 한 시간 남짓 늦게 시작되었어요.
   • The performance started about an hour late.
3. 저는 회사를 떠난 지 십 년 남짓 되었어요.
   • It's been a little over ten years since I left the company.
4. 그는 서른 살 남짓으로 보입니다.
   • He looks to be around thirty years old.
5. 우리는 이틀 남짓 여행을 다녀올 예정이에요.
   • We plan to go on a trip for about two days.

Formal and Informal Contexts

• Formal: 남짓 can be used in both formal and informal settings without change.
• Informal: Even in casual conversations, ~남짓 is appropriate and sounds natural.

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5. Cultural Notes

Cultural Relevance

In Korean culture, being precise can sometimes be seen as blunt or unnecessary in casual settings. Using terms like ~남짓 allows speakers to communicate approximate amounts gracefully.

Politeness and Formality

• ~남짓 itself does not alter the level of politeness.
• The overall politeness is adjusted using appropriate verb endings and honorifics.

Idiomatic Expressions

While ~남짓 is not part of an idiom, it's commonly used in combination with time expressions and quantities in everyday language.

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6. Common Mistakes and Tips

Error Analysis

• Mistake: Using ~남짓 after non-quantity nouns.
  • Incorrect: 책 남짓 읽었어요.
  • Correct: 책 한 권 남짓 읽었어요. (I read about one book.)
• Mistake: Confusing ~남짓 with ~정도 when the meaning is "a little over" rather than "approximately."
  • Remember that ~남짓 implies "slightly more than" the stated amount.

Learning Strategies

• Mnemonic Device: Think of 남짓 as "남은" (remaining) + "짓" (act), acting beyond the stated number.
• Tip: Use ~남짓 when the amount exceeds the number by a small margin.

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7. Summary and Review

Key Takeaways

• ~남짓 is used after quantity nouns to mean "a little over" or "about."
• It is suitable for both formal and informal contexts.
• ~남짓 implies the amount is slightly more than the stated figure.

Quick Recap Quiz

1. Fill in the blank with the appropriate grammar point: 하루 ___ 기다려야 해요. (We have to wait about a day.) Answer: 하루 남짓 기다려야 해요.
2. True or False: ~남짓 can be used with non-quantity nouns. Answer: False
3. Choose the correct usage: a) 사람 남짓 왔어요. b) 스무 명 남짓 왔어요. Answer: b) 스무 명 남짓 왔어요.

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By mastering ~남짓, you can express approximate amounts more naturally and understand nuances in conversations where precision is less important.

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