이란
iran
as for; what is called (defining topic)
Attaches to a noun to single it out as the topic being defined or explained, often used when giving a definition -- similar to 'as for X' or 'X is...'
Form
- Attaches to
- Noun
- Other shapes
- 란
Meanings
- 1
A postpositional particle used to explain or emphasize something by specially choosing it as the topic.
어떤 대상으로 특별히 지정하여 화제로 삼아 설명하거나 강조함을 나타내는 조사.
Examples
사랑이란 서로 이해하고 아끼는 마음이에요.
Love is the feeling of understanding and cherishing each other.
말이란 ‘아’ 다르고 ‘어’ 다른 거야.
Words are such that 'ah' is different from 'uh' -- how you say something matters.
돈이란 있다가도 없는 거란다.
Money is something that comes and goes.
엄마, 속담이 뭐예요? 속담이란 오랜 세월 동안 얻은 경험과 교훈을 짧게 표현한 말이야.
Mom, what's a proverb? A proverb is a short saying that expresses the experience and lessons gained over a long time.
엄마, 속담이 뭐예요?
Mom, what's a proverb?
속담이란 오랜 세월 동안 얻은 경험과 교훈을 짧게 표현한 말이야.
A proverb is a short saying that expresses the experience and lessons gained over a long time.
Examples: 한국어기초사전, CC BY-SA 2.0 KR.
Don’t confuse with
Forms with a close meaning — a favourite source of wrong answers on TOPIK.
Quick check
1. What does ‘이란’ mean?
2. Which form means “as for; what is called (defining topic)”?