이 닦다
이 닦다 in 30 Sekunden
- Fundamental Korean phrase for brushing teeth using the native word '이' and verb '닦다'.
- Essential for daily routine descriptions and social interactions in Korea.
- Used in various formality levels, from casual family talk to polite office culture.
- Culturally significant in Korea, where brushing after every meal is the standard norm.
The phrase 이 닦다 is the fundamental Korean expression for the daily act of brushing one's teeth. Composed of the noun 이 (tooth/teeth) and the verb 닦다 (to wipe, polish, or clean), it literally translates to 'wiping teeth.' While English speakers use 'brush,' Korean focuses on the action of cleaning a surface through friction. This expression is essential for daily life, appearing in morning routines, bedtime rituals, and uniquely in Korean culture, immediately after lunch in public settings like offices or schools.
- Literal Breakdown
- The word '이' refers to teeth in native Korean. The verb '닦다' is versatile, used for cleaning windows, polishing shoes, or mopping floors. Together, they form the standard way to describe dental hygiene.
밥을 먹은 후에 이를 닦아야 해요. (You must brush your teeth after eating.)
In Korea, the culture of dental hygiene is exceptionally rigorous. You will often see people carrying toothbrushes in their bags to use at work or university. This practice is so ingrained that most public restrooms in office buildings are equipped with shelving for toothbrushes. Using the phrase 이 닦다 is more common in casual, spoken conversation than the more formal Sino-Korean term 양치질하다, though both are used frequently. When speaking to children, parents might use the cute repetitive form 치카치카 하다 (chika-chika hada), which mimics the sound of brushing.
잠자기 전에 이를 닦았니? (Did you brush your teeth before going to sleep?)
- Cultural Context
- Korea follows the '3-3-3' rule: brush three times a day, within three minutes after eating, for at least three minutes. This makes the phrase '이 닦다' a very frequent part of daily conversation.
The verb 닦다 implies a thorough cleaning. If you just rinse your mouth with water, you would use 헹구다 (heng-gu-da) or 가글하다 (ga-geul-ha-da). Understanding the difference is key to sounding like a native speaker. In a household, a mother might shout, "빨리 가서 이 닦아!" (Go brush your teeth quickly!), highlighting its status as a core command in family life. Furthermore, as you progress to higher CEFR levels, you'll find 닦다 used metaphorically, such as '길을 닦다' (to pave a way/path), but in the context of '이', it remains strictly literal and functional.
칫솔에 치약을 짜서 이를 닦아요. (Squeeze toothpaste onto the toothbrush and brush your teeth.)
- Grammar Note
- The object marker '를' is often dropped in casual speech ('이 닦다'), but in writing or formal settings, it becomes '이를 닦다'. If using the word '이빨' (ippal - more colloquial/coarse), it becomes '이빨을 닦다'.
너무 세게 이를 닦으면 잇몸이 아파요. (If you brush your teeth too hard, your gums will hurt.)
In summary, 이 닦다 is more than just a translation; it is a gateway into Korean daily habits and social norms. Whether you are talking to a child, a friend, or explaining your routine to a doctor, this phrase is your primary tool for discussing oral hygiene. It captures the physical action and the cultural importance of maintaining a clean appearance and health in Korean society.
Using 이 닦다 correctly requires understanding Korean verb conjugation and the nuances of the object-verb relationship. As a phrase consisting of a noun and a verb, it follows standard Korean sentence structures. The most common form you will encounter is the polite present tense, 이를 닦아요, or the formal 이를 닦습니다. Because brushing teeth is a repetitive habit, it is frequently used with frequency adverbs like 자주 (often), 항상 (always), or 매일 (every day).
- Conjugation Patterns
- The verb '닦다' has a consonant stem ending in 'ㄲ'. When followed by '-아요', it becomes '닦아요'. In the past tense, it becomes '닦았어요'. For suggestions, use '닦읍시다' or '닦아요'.
저는 아침마다 꼭 이를 닦아요. (I brush my teeth every morning without fail.)
When constructing sentences, the object '이' (teeth) can take the object marker -를. However, in rapid conversation, Koreans almost always drop the particle, saying 이 닦았어? instead of 이를 닦았어?. If you want to emphasize that you are brushing *your* teeth, you don't usually need a possessive pronoun like 'my' (제/내) because the context makes it clear. Adding '제' (my) can sometimes sound redundant or overly Westernized in structure.
아이에게 이를 닦아 주었어요. (I brushed the child's teeth for them.)
- Common Sentence Endings
- -고 싶어요 (want to): 이를 닦고 싶어요.
-기 싫어요 (dislike): 이를 닦기 싫어요.
-러 가요 (go to): 이 닦으러 화장실에 가요.
Another important aspect is the use of the honorific 치아 (chia) instead of 이 when speaking to or about elders. While you might say 이 닦아 to a friend, you would say 치아를 닦으세요 or more naturally 양치하세요 to a grandparent. The verb 닦다 can also be replaced by 양치하다 in almost any sentence to sound slightly more formal or 'correct' in a social setting. However, in the privacy of one's home, 이 닦다 is the reigning champion of expressions.
손을 씻고 나서 이를 닦으세요. (Please brush your teeth after washing your hands.)
Finally, consider the instruments used. You brush teeth *with* a toothbrush (칫솔로) and toothpaste (치약으로). These instrumental particles -로/으로 are vital for expanding your sentences. For example, "부드러운 칫솔로 이를 닦는 것이 좋아요" (It is good to brush your teeth with a soft toothbrush). This level of detail allows you to move from basic A2 sentences to more descriptive B1 level communication.
In South Korea, you will hear 이 닦다 or its variants in a surprisingly wide array of public and private settings. Unlike some Western cultures where oral hygiene is a strictly private affair, Koreans are very open about the necessity of brushing. One of the most common places to hear this is in the office restroom after lunch. Colleagues might say to each other, "이 닦으러 가실래요?" (Shall we go brush our teeth?), making it a social, routine activity.
- In the Workplace
- Post-lunch brushing is a standard Korean corporate culture. You will hear the sound of electric toothbrushes and see rows of people at the mirrors. It's considered polite to ensure your breath is fresh before afternoon meetings.
부장님, 저 이 좀 닦고 오겠습니다. (Manager, I'll go brush my teeth and come back.)
Another frequent location is the dental clinic (치과). Dentists and dental hygienists will use this phrase constantly when giving instructions. They might ask, "하루에 몇 번 이를 닦으세요?" (How many times a day do you brush your teeth?) or demonstrate the correct technique: "이렇게 구석구석 이를 닦으셔야 합니다" (You must brush every nook and cranny like this). In this professional setting, the phrase is functional and diagnostic.
치과 의사가 이를 더 열심히 닦으라고 했어요. (The dentist told me to brush my teeth more diligently.)
- In Schools
- From kindergarten through high school, students are encouraged to brush after lunch. Teachers will often lead a group 'brushing time' for younger children, where the phrase is repeated as a group instruction.
You will also encounter this word in advertisements for toothpaste and toothbrushes. Commercials on TV or YouTube often feature celebrities with blindingly white teeth, using the phrase to promise better health or a brighter smile. Phrases like "상쾌하게 이 닦으세요" (Brush your teeth refreshingly) are common marketing slogans. Understanding this word allows you to navigate these everyday media encounters with ease.
광고에서 이 치약으로 이를 닦으면 하얘진대요. (The ad says if you brush with this toothpaste, your teeth will get white.)
In summary, 이 닦다 is a ubiquitous phrase because the action itself is a visible, social, and highly valued part of Korean life. From the bathroom of a high-rise office to the simple routine of a child at home, the phrase is a constant companion in the rhythm of the Korean day.
Learning to use 이 닦다 correctly involves avoiding several common pitfalls that English speakers frequently encounter. The most frequent mistake is using the wrong verb for 'cleaning.' In English, we 'wash' our face, 'wash' our hands, and 'brush' our teeth. In Korean, these actions use distinct verbs: 씻다 (ssit-da) for washing with water, and 닦다 (dak-da) for brushing or wiping. Beginners often say "이를 씻어요," which sounds like you are just rinsing your teeth with water without a brush.
- Mistake 1: Verb Confusion
- Don't use '씻다' (wash). Always use '닦다' (wipe/brush) for teeth. '씻다' is for hands (손을 씻다) or face (세수하다).
❌ 이를 씻었어요 (Incorrect)
✅ 이를 닦았어요 (Correct)
Another error involves the noun 이빨 (ippal). While 이빨 also means teeth, it is technically used for animals. Using 이빨 for humans can sound slightly crude or overly informal. While young people use it among themselves, it's safer for learners to stick with 이 or the polite 치아. Saying "이빨을 닦으세요" to a teacher or an elder would be considered quite rude.
❌ 할아버지, 이빨 닦으세요. (Rude)
✅ 할아버지, 양치하세요 or 치아를 닦으세요. (Polite)
- Mistake 2: Overusing Possessives
- English speakers often say 'I brush *my* teeth.' In Korean, saying '제 이를 닦아요' sounds repetitive. If you are the subject, it's assumed you are brushing your own teeth.
Thirdly, learners often struggle with the spelling of 닦다. The double 'ㄲ' is essential. Sometimes learners write 닥다 or 닦다 with a single 'ㄱ' when conjugating. Remember that the double consonant remains in the root: 닦아요, 닦고, 닦으니. Pronunciation-wise, the 'ㄲ' at the end of a syllable sounds like a sharp 'k' stop, but when followed by a vowel, it carries over: [다까요].
❌ 이를 다가요 (Spelling error)
✅ 이를 닦아요 (Correct)
Lastly, don't confuse 이 (tooth) with 이 (this) or the number 이 (two). Context usually solves this, but in a sentence like "이 이 닦아" (Brush this tooth), it can get confusing! Using markers like -를 or -가 helps clarify which '이' is which. For example, "이(this) 이(tooth)가 아파요" (This tooth hurts).
While 이 닦다 is the most common way to say 'brush teeth,' Korean offers several alternatives depending on the level of formality and the specific context. The most significant alternative is 양치질하다 (yang-chi-jil-ha-da), often shortened to 양치하다. This is a Sino-Korean term that is slightly more formal and is the standard term used in school, healthcare, and polite society.
- 이 닦다 vs. 양치질하다
- '이 닦다' is native Korean, more visceral and common in casual speech. '양치질하다' is Sino-Korean, used in broader social contexts and encompasses the whole process of oral cleaning, including rinsing.
점심 먹고 양치했어? (Did you 'do yangchi' [brush] after lunch?)
Another term is 치아를 세정하다 (chi-a-reul se-jeong-ha-da), which means 'to clean/sanitize teeth.' This is strictly medical or academic. You will see this on the packaging of mouthwash or dental tools. It's not something you would say to a friend, but you might read it in a health pamphlet at a hospital.
우리 아기, 치카치카 하자! (Our baby, let's do chika-chika!)
- Alternative Verbs for '닦다'
- 1. 문지르다 (mun-ji-reu-da): To rub. Used if you are rubbing your teeth with a finger or cloth.
2. 헹구다 (heng-gu-da): To rinse. Used for the water-only part of the process.
For those interested in idioms, 이를 갈다 (to grind teeth) is a common phrase meaning to be very angry or to wait for revenge, while 이를 악물다 (to clench teeth) means to endure something with great determination. These use the same noun 이 but different verbs to convey emotional states rather than hygiene. Understanding these variations helps you see how the word 이 functions across different semantic fields in Korean.
그는 복수를 위해 이를 갈고 있어요. (He is grinding his teeth [waiting for revenge].)
Finally, when talking about the *result* of brushing, you might use 깨끗하다 (to be clean) or 상쾌하다 (to be refreshing). A person who has just finished brushing might say, "아, 입안이 상쾌하다!" (Ah, the inside of my mouth is refreshing!). By learning these related words, you build a web of vocabulary that makes your Korean sound much more natural and expressive.
How Formal Is It?
Wusstest du?
Before modern toothbrushes were introduced to Korea, people used salt ('소금') and their fingers or small willow branches ('버드나무 가지') to '닦다' their teeth. This historical context is why the Sino-Korean word '양치' (willow branch) exists today.
Aussprachehilfe
- Pronouncing '닦' as 'dag' (with a voiced 'g'). It should be a sharp 'k' stop.
- Aspirating the 't' in 'ta' (making it sound like 'tha'). It should be flat.
- Merging 'i' and 'dak' into one syllable. They must remain distinct.
- Forgetting the tense nature of the 'kk' in '닦다'.
- Mispronouncing the 'i' as 'ee' in 'beet' but too long; it should be a crisp Korean 'ㅣ'.
Schwierigkeitsgrad
Very easy to read; uses basic characters and common patterns.
The double consonant 'ㄲ' in '닦다' can be tricky for beginners to remember.
Pronunciation of the 'kk' stop followed by 'd' requires some practice for smooth flow.
Distinctive sound; usually very clear in context.
Was du als Nächstes lernen solltest
Voraussetzungen
Als Nächstes lernen
Fortgeschritten
Wichtige Grammatik
Object Marker Drop
이를 닦다 -> 이 닦다 (Common in speech).
Instrumental Particle -로
칫솔로 이를 닦다 (Brush with a toothbrush).
Sequence -고
이를 닦고 자다 (Brush and then sleep).
Reason -아서/어서
졸려서 이를 안 닦았어요 (I didn't brush because I was sleepy).
Purpose -으러
이 닦으러 가요 (Go to brush teeth).
Beispiele nach Niveau
저는 매일 이를 닦아요.
I brush my teeth every day.
Simple present tense polite form (-아요).
아침에 이 닦았어요?
Did you brush your teeth in the morning?
Past tense polite question (-았어요?).
이 닦고 자요.
Brush your teeth and then sleep.
Imperative/suggestive form in casual polite speech.
동생이 이를 닦아요.
My younger sibling brushes their teeth.
Subject marker '-이' and object marker '-를'.
치약으로 이를 닦아요.
I brush my teeth with toothpaste.
Instrumental particle '-으로'.
이 닦기 싫어요.
I don't want to brush my teeth.
Noun form '-기' + '싫어요' (dislike).
화장실에서 이 닦아요.
I brush my teeth in the bathroom.
Location particle '-에서'.
빨리 이 닦아!
Brush your teeth quickly!
Informal/Banmal imperative form.
밥을 먹은 후에 이를 닦으세요.
Please brush your teeth after eating.
'-은 후에' (after doing) and polite imperative '-으세요'.
이를 닦기 전에 손을 씻어요.
I wash my hands before brushing my teeth.
'-기 전에' (before doing).
칫솔이 없어서 이를 못 닦았어요.
I couldn't brush my teeth because I didn't have a toothbrush.
'-어서' (reason) and '못' (cannot/could not).
이를 닦는 것이 중요해요.
Brushing your teeth is important.
'-는 것' (making a verb into a noun phrase).
어제는 피곤해서 이를 안 닦고 잤어요.
Yesterday I was tired, so I went to sleep without brushing my teeth.
'-고' (and/sequence) with negation '안'.
이를 닦으러 화장실에 갔어요.
I went to the bathroom to brush my teeth.
'-으러 가다' (go in order to).
새 칫솔로 이를 닦으니까 기분이 좋아요.
I feel good because I'm brushing my teeth with a new toothbrush.
'-니까' (reason/discovery).
하루에 세 번 이를 닦아야 해요.
You must brush your teeth three times a day.
'-아야 하다' (must/have to).
충치가 생기지 않도록 이를 잘 닦으세요.
Brush your teeth well so that you don't get cavities.
'-지 않도록' (so that... not).
너무 세게 이를 닦으면 잇몸이 상할 수 있어요.
If you brush your teeth too hard, your gums can get damaged.
'-으면' (if) and '-ㄹ 수 있다' (can).
한국 사람들은 보통 점심을 먹고 나서도 이를 닦아요.
Koreans usually brush their teeth even after eating lunch.
'-고 나서' (after finishing) and '-도' (also/even).
이를 닦을 때 혀도 같이 닦는 것이 좋아요.
It is good to brush your tongue as well when brushing your teeth.
'-을 때' (when).
치과 의사가 이를 3분 동안 닦으라고 했어요.
The dentist told me to brush my teeth for three minutes.
Indirect speech imperative '-라고 하다'.
이를 닦는 습관은 어릴 때부터 길러야 합니다.
The habit of brushing teeth should be developed from a young age.
Formal ending '-습니다' and habit formation vocabulary.
전동 칫솔을 사용하면 이를 더 깨끗하게 닦을 수 있어요.
If you use an electric toothbrush, you can brush your teeth more cleanly.
Adverbial form '-게' (cleanly).
귀찮더라도 자기 전에는 꼭 이를 닦으세요.
Even if it's bothersome, make sure to brush your teeth before bed.
'-더라도' (even if).
올바른 방법으로 이를 닦는 것이 치아 건강의 기본입니다.
Brushing your teeth the right way is the basis of dental health.
Abstract noun '기본' (basis) and formal register.
그는 너무 바빠서 이를 닦을 시간조차 없었다고 핑계를 댔다.
He made an excuse that he was so busy he didn't even have time to brush his teeth.
'-조차' (even/not even) and '핑계를 대다' (make an excuse).
이를 닦지 않고 방치하면 치석이 생기기 쉽습니다.
If you leave your teeth without brushing, tartar easily forms.
'-지 않고' (without doing) and '-기 쉽다' (easy to).
아이에게 스스로 이를 닦는 법을 가르치는 것은 인내심이 필요해요.
Teaching a child how to brush their teeth by themselves requires patience.
'-는 법' (how to) and '필요하다' (need).
식사 후 바로 이를 닦는 것이 좋은지 아닌지에 대해서는 의견이 갈려요.
Opinions are divided on whether it is good to brush your teeth immediately after a meal.
'-는지 아닌지' (whether or not) and '의견이 갈리다' (opinions are divided).
커피를 마신 뒤에는 입을 헹구거나 이를 닦는 것이 치아 변색을 막아줍니다.
After drinking coffee, rinsing your mouth or brushing your teeth prevents tooth discoloration.
'-거나' (or) and '막아주다' (prevent/block).
여행 중에도 이를 닦는 것을 소홀히 해서는 안 됩니다.
You must not neglect brushing your teeth even while traveling.
'-어서는 안 된다' (must not).
이를 닦을 때 피가 난다면 치주 질환을 의심해 봐야 합니다.
If your gums bleed when brushing, you should suspect periodontal disease.
'-ㄴ다면' (if - hypothetical) and '-아야 보다' (should try/examine).
이를 닦는 행위는 단순한 위생 관리를 넘어 사회적 에티켓으로 간주됩니다.
The act of brushing one's teeth is considered a social etiquette beyond simple hygiene management.
'-를 넘어' (beyond) and '간주되다' (be considered).
그는 결벽증이 있는지 수시로 화장실에 가서 이를 닦곤 했다.
He used to go to the bathroom frequently to brush his teeth, as if he had mysophobia.
'-곤 하다' (habitual action) and '수시로' (frequently).
현대인들에게 이를 닦는 시간은 오롯이 자신에게 집중하는 명상의 시간이 되기도 합니다.
For modern people, the time spent brushing teeth can also be a time of meditation, focusing entirely on oneself.
'-기도 하다' (also/sometimes) and '오롯이' (entirely).
치약의 성분이 이를 닦는 동안 치아 표면의 미세한 상처를 메워주는 역할을 합니다.
Ingredients in toothpaste play a role in filling in microscopic scratches on the tooth surface while brushing.
'-는 동안' (while) and '역할을 하다' (play a role).
어릴 적 어머니께서 이를 닦으라고 잔소리하시던 목소리가 아직도 생생합니다.
My mother's nagging voice telling me to brush my teeth as a child is still vivid.
'-던' (retrospective modifier) and '생생하다' (vivid).
이를 닦는 습관의 유무가 개인의 전반적인 건강 상태를 가늠하는 척도가 될 수 있습니다.
The presence or absence of the habit of brushing teeth can be a yardstick for gauging an individual's overall health status.
'-의 유무' (presence or absence) and '척도' (yardstick/measure).
이를 닦을 때 사용하는 물의 온도가 세정력에 미치는 영향에 대한 연구가 진행되었습니다.
Research has been conducted on the effect of water temperature used when brushing teeth on cleaning power.
'-에 미치는 영향' (influence on).
그는 이를 닦으면서 거울 속에 비친 자신의 초라한 모습을 묵묵히 응시했다.
While brushing his teeth, he silently gazed at his own shabby reflection in the mirror.
'-면서' (while) and literary style '응시했다'.
이를 닦는다는 보편적 행위 이면에는 근대 위생 관념의 확산이라는 역사적 맥락이 숨어 있습니다.
Behind the universal act of brushing teeth lies the historical context of the spread of modern hygiene concepts.
'-는다는 ... 이면에는' (behind the fact that...).
산업화 이후 설탕 소비가 급증함에 따라 이를 닦는 일은 생존을 위한 필수 과업이 되었습니다.
As sugar consumption surged following industrialization, brushing teeth became an essential task for survival.
'-함에 따라' (according to/as a result of).
이를 닦는 행위를 게을리하는 것은 자존감의 결여나 심리적 위축의 징후로 해석되기도 합니다.
Neglecting the act of brushing one's teeth is sometimes interpreted as a sign of lack of self-esteem or psychological withdrawal.
'-로 해석되다' (be interpreted as).
치아를 닦는 도구의 진화는 인류가 자신의 신체를 제어하고 관리해 온 방식을 극명하게 보여줍니다.
The evolution of tools for brushing teeth clearly demonstrates the ways in which humanity has controlled and managed its own body.
'-해 온 방식' (the way one has been doing).
이를 닦는 동안 흐르는 물을 잠그는 사소한 실천이 수자원 보호라는 거시적 담론과 연결됩니다.
The minor practice of turning off the tap while brushing teeth connects with the macro-discourse of water resource protection.
'-라는 거시적 담론' (a macro-discourse called...).
그는 이를 닦으며 하루의 번뇌를 씻어내듯 매 순간의 동작에 정성을 다했다.
As if washing away the day's worries while brushing his teeth, he put his heart into every movement.
'-듯' (as if).
이를 닦는 행위의 정례화는 근대적 주체를 형성하는 훈육의 과정 중 하나로 분석될 수 있습니다.
The regularization of the act of brushing teeth can be analyzed as one of the disciplinary processes forming the modern subject.
'-의 정례화' (regularization of).
이를 닦는 소리만이 적막한 욕실 안을 가득 채우며 그의 고독을 심화시켰다.
Only the sound of brushing teeth filled the silent bathroom, deepening his solitude.
'-만이' (only) and literary personification.
Häufige Kollokationen
Häufige Phrasen
— Did you brush your teeth? A common question from parents to children.
너 자기 전에 이 닦았어?
— Go brush your teeth and come back.
입 냄새 나니까 이 닦고 와.
— Brushing time/Time to brush teeth.
자, 이제 이 닦는 시간이야!
— I'm too lazy to brush my teeth.
오늘은 너무 피곤해서 이 닦기 귀찮아.
— To forget to brush one's teeth.
너무 바빠서 이 닦는 걸 잊어버렸어요.
— To brush one's teeth well/thoroughly.
이를 잘 닦아야 치과에 안 가요.
— To brush one's teeth carelessly or quickly.
이를 대충 닦으면 충치가 생겨요.
— To brush someone else's teeth (usually a child or pet).
엄마가 아이의 이를 닦아 주었어요.
— To tell someone to brush their teeth.
선생님이 아이들에게 이를 닦으라고 했어요.
— To be in the middle of brushing one's teeth.
지금 이 닦는 중이라 전화를 못 받아요.
Wird oft verwechselt mit
Used for washing with water (hands, face). Never use for teeth.
Used for washing clothes or sucking. Not for teeth.
Used for cleaning a room or building. Too broad for teeth.
Redewendungen & Ausdrücke
— To grind one's teeth (literally or figuratively as in seeking revenge).
그는 원수에게 복수하기 위해 이를 갈고 있다.
Common— To clench one's teeth (to endure pain or show determination).
그는 고통을 참고 이를 악물며 달렸다.
Common— If you don't have teeth, use your gums (make do with what you have).
장비가 부족하지만 이가 없으면 잇몸으로라도 해야지.
Proverb— A toothless tiger (someone who has lost their power).
그 독재자도 이제는 이 빠진 호랑이 신세다.
Metaphor— Like a painful tooth falling out (feeling great relief after a problem is solved).
어려운 숙제를 끝내니 앓던 이가 빠진 것 같아요.
Common— Lip service (sweet talk that isn't sincere).
그의 칭찬은 그냥 입에 발린 소리일 뿐이야.
Common— An eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth.
복수는 복수를 낳는다. 눈에는 눈, 이에는 이 방식은 옳지 않아.
Proverb— Teeth are sensitive/chilled (often used for cold food or metaphorically for fear).
아이스크림을 먹었더니 이가 시려요.
Common— To show one's teeth (to show hostility or reveal one's true colors).
그는 마침내 본색을 확인하며 이를 드러냈다.
Literary— To have a small appetite or be a picky eater (related to mouth/teeth area).
우리 아이는 입이 짧아서 걱정이에요.
CommonLeicht verwechselbar
Means tooth, this, number two, or a subject marker.
Context and particles distinguish them. '이를 닦다' clearly refers to teeth.
이(this) 이(tooth)가 아파요.
Similar starting sounds.
'닦다' is to clean; '닥치다' is to shut up (rude) or to approach.
입 닦아 (Clean your mouth) vs 입 닥쳐 (Shut up).
Both mean teeth.
'이' is for humans; '이빨' is for animals or very informal/rough speech.
사람은 이, 호랑이는 이빨.
Similar sounds.
'양치' is brushing teeth; '양치기' is a shepherd.
양치질을 해요 vs 양치기 소년.
Both involve cleaning.
'닦다' involves friction/wiping; '씻다' involves rinsing/washing with water.
창문을 닦다 vs 손을 씻다.
Satzmuster
[Subject]은/는 [Time]에 이를 닦아요.
저는 아침에 이를 닦아요.
이 닦으러 가요.
지금 이 닦으러 가요.
[Action] 후에 이를 닦으세요.
밥을 먹은 후에 이를 닦으세요.
이를 닦기 전에 [Action].
이를 닦기 전에 손을 씻어요.
이를 잘 닦아야 [Result].
이를 잘 닦아야 충치가 안 생겨요.
너무 [Adverb]하게 이를 닦으면 안 돼요.
너무 세게 이를 닦으면 안 돼요.
이를 닦는 것은 [Noun]의 기본이다.
이를 닦는 것은 위생의 기본이다.
이를 닦으면서 [Action/Thought].
이를 닦으면서 하루 계획을 세워요.
Wortfamilie
Substantive
Verben
Adjektive
Verwandt
So verwendest du es
Extremely High (Daily use)
-
이를 씻다
→
이를 닦다
You use '닦다' (wipe/polish) for teeth, not '씻다' (wash with water).
-
이를 닥다
→
이를 닦다
Spelling error: the root must have the double consonant 'ㄲ'.
-
이빨을 닦으세요 (to a teacher)
→
양치하세요
'이빨' is too informal/crude for a superior. Use '양치' or '치아'.
-
제 이를 닦아요
→
이를 닦아요
In Korean, possessives like 'my' (제) are usually omitted when the context is clear.
-
이를 닦어
→
이를 닦아
Conjugation error: '닦' contains the vowel 'ㅏ', so it must be followed by '아', not '어'.
Tipps
Carry a Travel Kit
If you are in Korea, carry a small toothbrush kit in your bag. You'll fit right in when you go to brush your teeth after lunch at a restaurant or office.
Particle Choice
In casual speech, drop the marker: '이 닦았어?'. In writing, use '이를 닦다'. This small change makes you sound much more like a native speaker.
The 'kk' Stop
Make sure the 'ㄲ' in '닦' is a sharp, clean stop. Don't let any air out. This 'tense' sound is what distinguishes it from '닥'.
Learn the Instruments
Don't just learn '이 닦다'. Learn '칫솔' (brush) and '치약' (paste) together. They are almost always used in the same context.
Morning and Night
Use this phrase to practice time markers: '아침에 이 닦아요' and '밤에 이 닦아요'. It's a great way to build simple routine sentences.
Polite Suggestions
When suggesting to an elder to brush, use '양치하세요' instead of '이 닦으세요'. It sounds more refined and respectful.
Dental Visits
If you go to a dentist in Korea, they will use '치아' (chia). Knowing this word will help you understand their instructions better.
Emotional Teeth
Remember '이를 갈다' (grinding teeth). If someone says this, they aren't talking about hygiene; they are very angry!
The Double Consonant
Always write '닦다' with two 'ㄱ's. It's one of those words that teachers look at to check a student's basic spelling proficiency.
TV Ads
Watch Korean toothpaste commercials. They repeat '이 닦다' and '양치' constantly. It's great listening practice for A1-A2 levels.
Einprägen
Eselsbrücke
Think of 'I' (my) teeth. 'I' (이) need to 'Dak' (닦 - like 'dock'ing a ship for cleaning) my teeth.
Visuelle Assoziation
Imagine a giant toothbrush 'polishing' (닦다) a giant tooth (이) until it sparkles.
Word Web
Herausforderung
Try to say '이를 닦아요' every time you enter your bathroom today. If you have a roommate, ask them '이 닦았어요?'
Wortherkunft
The word '이' is a native Korean noun for teeth, dating back to Middle Korean. The verb '닦다' is also a native Korean word meaning to wipe or polish, originally referring to the action of cleaning a surface to make it shine.
Ursprüngliche Bedeutung: Wiping or polishing the teeth to keep them clean.
Native Korean (Altaic/Koreanic)Kultureller Kontext
Avoid using '이빨' (ippal) when talking about adults' teeth in formal settings, as it can sound animalistic or degrading.
In many Western cultures, brushing teeth is a private activity done only at home. Seeing someone brush in a public restroom might be surprising to Westerners, whereas in Korea, it's expected.
Im Alltag üben
Kontexte aus dem Alltag
Morning Routine
- 일어나자마자 이 닦아요.
- 이 닦고 세수해요.
- 정신 차리려고 이 닦아요.
- 아침 먹기 전에 이 닦으세요?
Before Bed
- 자기 전에 꼭 이 닦아.
- 이 닦는 거 깜빡하지 마.
- 졸려도 이 닦고 자야지.
- 아이 이 닦아 줬어?
At the Dentist
- 어떻게 이를 닦으세요?
- 이를 더 잘 닦으셔야 합니다.
- 이를 닦을 때 아파요.
- 구석구석 이를 닦는 법을 알려주세요.
Office/Social
- 점심 먹고 이 닦으러 가요.
- 이 닦고 회의 들어갈게요.
- 칫솔 빌려줄 수 있어? (Wait, don't ask this!)
- 치약 좀 빌려주세요.
Parenting
- 이 닦자, 아~ 해봐.
- 사탕 먹었으니까 이 닦아야지.
- 혼자서도 이 잘 닦네!
- 이 안 닦으면 벌레 생겨.
Gesprächseinstiege
"보통 하루에 몇 번 이를 닦으세요? (How many times a day do you usually brush your teeth?)"
"한국 사람들은 왜 사무실에서 이를 닦을까요? (Why do Koreans brush their teeth in the office?)"
"가장 좋아하는 치약 브랜드가 뭐예요? (What is your favorite toothpaste brand?)"
"어릴 때 이 닦는 걸 좋아했어요? (Did you like brushing your teeth when you were young?)"
"전동 칫솔을 쓰세요, 아니면 일반 칫솔을 쓰세요? (Do you use an electric toothbrush or a regular one?)"
Tagebuch-Impulse
오늘 아침에 일어난 후의 루틴을 설명해 보세요. (Describe your routine after waking up this morning.)
건강한 치아를 유지하기 위해 무엇을 하고 있나요? (What are you doing to maintain healthy teeth?)
한국의 양치 문화에 대해 어떻게 생각하는지 써 보세요. (Write about what you think of Korea's brushing culture.)
어릴 적 이 닦기와 관련된 재미있는 기억이 있나요? (Do you have any funny memories related to brushing teeth as a child?)
자신만의 올바른 이 닦기 노하우를 공유해 보세요. (Share your own know-how for brushing teeth correctly.)
Häufig gestellte Fragen
10 FragenNo, that sounds very unnatural. Koreans always use '닦다' (wipe/polish) for teeth because it involves scrubbing. '씻다' is for washing with water like hands or fruit.
Yes, they refer to the same action. '양치질하다' is a bit more formal and covers the whole process including rinsing. '이 닦다' is more common in daily, casual speech.
It's a strong cultural norm to brush after every meal, including lunch. Fresh breath is considered essential for professional etiquette and personal health.
It is baby talk for brushing teeth. It mimics the 'shicka-shicka' sound of the brush against the teeth. Adults only use it when talking to very young children.
It is a regular verb: 닦아요 (present), 닦았어요 (past), 닦을 거예요 (future), 닦으세요 (polite command).
In Korean, '이' can mean one tooth or all your teeth. Context tells you which. Usually, '이를 닦다' means brushing all of them.
Use the instrumental particle '-로' (by means of). '칫솔로 이를 닦아요'.
It is '닦아' (casual) or '닦아요' (polite). The vowel 'ㅏ' in '닦' requires '아' due to vowel harmony.
Definitely not. '이빨' is informal and can be seen as rude or animalistic. Use '이' or '치아' or '양치' with superiors.
It's a famous Korean health campaign: Brush 3 times a day, within 3 minutes of eating, for 3 minutes each time.
Teste dich selbst 200 Fragen
Write 'I brush my teeth every morning' in polite Korean.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write 'I brush my teeth after eating lunch' in polite Korean.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write 'Please brush your teeth before you go to bed.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translate: 'I brush my teeth with a toothbrush and toothpaste.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write 'I like the feeling after brushing my teeth.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write 'I forgot to brush my teeth yesterday.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translate: 'To prevent cavities, you must brush well.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write 'Go to the bathroom and brush your teeth!' (Informal)
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write 'I am in the middle of brushing my teeth.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translate: 'The dentist told me to brush for 3 minutes.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write 'Even if it's bothersome, you should brush.'
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Write 'I want to buy a new electric toothbrush.'
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Translate: 'Brushing teeth is a good habit.'
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Write 'I brush my teeth three times a day.'
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Write 'My teeth are clean because I brushed them.'
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Translate: 'Don't brush too hard.'
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Write 'I brush my teeth and then wash my face.'
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Translate: 'Did you brush your teeth?' (Casual)
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Write 'I need to go brush my teeth now.'
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Write 'The child is learning how to brush their teeth.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Say 'I brush my teeth' in polite Korean.
Read this aloud:
Du hast gesagt:
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Ask 'Did you brush your teeth?' in casual Korean.
Read this aloud:
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Explain your morning routine using '이 닦다'.
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Tell someone politely to brush their teeth after lunch.
Read this aloud:
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Say 'I need to go to the bathroom to brush my teeth.'
Read this aloud:
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Say 'I brush my teeth with a soft toothbrush.'
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Say 'I always brush my teeth before I go to sleep.'
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Say 'It is important to brush your teeth well.'
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Ask a dentist 'How many times a day should I brush?'
Read this aloud:
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Say 'I'm brushing my teeth now, wait a moment.'
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Say 'I don't like brushing my teeth.'
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Say 'I forgot my toothbrush.'
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Say 'My teeth feel refreshing after brushing.'
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Say 'I brush my teeth three times a day.'
Read this aloud:
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Say 'Don't forget to brush your teeth.'
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Say 'I'll be back after brushing my teeth.'
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Say 'The child is brushing their teeth alone.'
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Say 'I brush my teeth for three minutes.'
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Say 'I need toothpaste.'
Read this aloud:
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Say 'I'm going to brush my teeth.'
Read this aloud:
Du hast gesagt:
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Listen and choose the correct action: '화장실에서 칫솔로 이를 닦고 있어요.'
Listen and identify the tool: '치약을 칫솔에 묻히세요.'
Listen and identify the frequency: '하루에 세 번 이를 닦으세요.'
Listen and identify the time: '자기 전에 이를 닦아야 해요.'
Listen and identify the reason: '충치가 생겨서 이를 더 잘 닦아야 해요.'
Listen: '양치하고 올게요.' What will the person do?
Listen: '이 닦는 거 잊지 마.' Is it a command or a reminder?
Listen: '너무 세게 닦지 마세요.' What is the warning?
Listen: '아이에게 이를 닦아 줬어요.' Who brushed the teeth?
Listen: '칫솔을 새로 샀어요.' What was bought?
Listen: '입을 물로 헹구세요.' What is the instruction?
Listen: '이 닦기 싫어!' Who might be saying this?
Listen: '식후 3분 이내에 닦으세요.' When should you brush?
Listen: '전동 칫솔이 어디 있어요?' What is the person looking for?
Listen: '이를 닦으니까 개운해요.' How does the person feel?
/ 200 correct
Perfect score!
Summary
The phrase '이 닦다' is the most natural way to say 'brush teeth' in Korean. Remember to use '닦다' (wipe/polish) rather than '씻다' (wash), and be aware that Koreans often brush three times a day, including after lunch. Example: '식후 3분 이내에 이를 닦는 것이 좋습니다.' (It is good to brush your teeth within 3 minutes after a meal.)
- Fundamental Korean phrase for brushing teeth using the native word '이' and verb '닦다'.
- Essential for daily routine descriptions and social interactions in Korea.
- Used in various formality levels, from casual family talk to polite office culture.
- Culturally significant in Korea, where brushing after every meal is the standard norm.
Carry a Travel Kit
If you are in Korea, carry a small toothbrush kit in your bag. You'll fit right in when you go to brush your teeth after lunch at a restaurant or office.
Particle Choice
In casual speech, drop the marker: '이 닦았어?'. In writing, use '이를 닦다'. This small change makes you sound much more like a native speaker.
The 'kk' Stop
Make sure the 'ㄲ' in '닦' is a sharp, clean stop. Don't let any air out. This 'tense' sound is what distinguishes it from '닥'.
Learn the Instruments
Don't just learn '이 닦다'. Learn '칫솔' (brush) and '치약' (paste) together. They are almost always used in the same context.
Beispiel
아침에 일어나서 이를 닦았습니다.
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