At the A1 level, you should know that **통로 (tong-no)** means 'a way' or 'a path' where people walk. You might see it in a supermarket or a train. It is pronounced like 'tong-no'. It is a noun. You can use it with simple verbs like '있다' (to be) or '없다' (to not be). For example, '통로에 사람이 있어요' (There is a person in the aisle). At this stage, just think of it as a special word for 'aisle' when you are shopping or traveling.
At the A2 level, you can use **통로** to describe specific locations. You should be able to distinguish between an aisle seat (**통로 쪽 좌석**) and a window seat (**창가 쪽 좌석**) when booking a flight or train. You also learn that it can be narrow (**좁다**) or wide (**넓다**). You start to see it in compound words like **비상 통로** (emergency passage). You should understand that it is a space used to move from one place to another, often between rows of things like shelves or seats.
At the B1 level, you use **통로** in more complex sentences involving rules and instructions. You might hear '통로를 막지 마세요' (Do not block the passage) in public places. You understand the grammar of movement through the passage using particles like **-를 통해** (through) or **-(으)로** (via). You can describe the function of a passage, such as '이것은 지하철로 연결되는 통로입니다' (This is a passage that connects to the subway). You also begin to recognize the nasalization rule in its pronunciation ([통노]).
At the B2 level, you start using **통로** in abstract or metaphorical contexts. For example, '대화는 소통의 통로이다' (Conversation is a channel for communication). You understand its role in logistics and infrastructure, such as '무역 통로' (trade route). You can differentiate it clearly from similar words like **복도** (hallway) and **경로** (route). You are comfortable using it in formal announcements and can explain why a certain passage might be blocked or secured during an event or emergency.
At the C1 level, you use **통로** in academic, technical, or literary settings. You might encounter it in biology (neural pathways), physics, or high-level political discourse (diplomatic channels). You understand the nuances of its Hanja roots (**通** - pass, **路** - road) and how they influence related vocabulary. You can use the word to describe complex systems of transit or flow, and you can write detailed reports or essays where **통로** serves as a key concept for connectivity and access.
At the C2 level, you have a native-like grasp of **통로**. You can use it in highly sophisticated metaphors and understand its subtle connotations in classical literature or modern legal texts. You can discuss the historical evolution of the word and its synonyms. You are aware of rare idiomatic uses and can use the word with perfect precision in any register, from slang to the most formal diplomatic language. You understand the subtle difference between **통로**, **회랑** (gallery/cloister), and **주랑** (colonnade) in architectural discussions.

통로 en 30 secondes

  • 통로 (Tong-no) means 'passage' or 'aisle'. It is used for supermarket aisles, airplane walkways, and emergency exits.
  • It comes from Hanja: 通 (pass) and 路 (road). Pronunciation changes to [통노] due to nasalization rules.
  • Common collocations include '통로 쪽' (aisle side) and '비상 통로' (emergency passage). It is more general than 'hallway' (복도).
  • Abstractly, it refers to 'channels' of communication or trade between people, organizations, or nations.

The Korean word 통로 (tong-no) is a foundational noun that primarily refers to a path, passage, or aisle designed for the movement of people, vehicles, or even abstract entities like information. Derived from the Hanja characters 通 (tong) meaning 'to pass through' and 路 (ro) meaning 'road' or 'path', it literally translates to a 'pass-through road'. While in English we might use distinct words like 'aisle' for a grocery store, 'corridor' for a building, or 'channel' for communication, Korean often utilizes 통로 to encompass all these spaces where movement occurs within a confined or specific boundary.

Physical Space
In everyday life, you will encounter this word most frequently in commercial or transport settings. When you are walking between rows of shelves in a supermarket, you are in a 통로. When you are moving between seats on an airplane or a bus, that narrow walking space is also a 통로. It implies a sense of directionality and transition; it is not a destination itself but the means to get from point A to point B.
Safety and Infrastructure
In the context of architecture and safety, 통로 is critical. You will often see signs for 비상 통로 (bisang tong-no), which means 'emergency exit' or 'emergency passage'. In these instances, the word carries a weight of necessity and functionality, emphasizing that the path must remain clear for safety purposes. Construction sites also use this term to designate where workers or machinery are permitted to travel.
Abstract and Technical Usage
Beyond physical walkways, 통로 describes channels of connection. In biology, it might refer to a passage in the body (like a nasal passage). In diplomacy or business, it refers to a 'channel' of communication or a 'gateway' for trade. For example, a port might be described as a 통로 for international commerce, acting as the vital link between two different economic zones.

마트의 통로가 너무 좁아서 카트가 지나가기 힘들어요.

— Translation: The supermarket aisle is so narrow that it is hard for the cart to pass through.

비행기에서 통로 쪽 좌석을 선호하시나요, 아니면 창가 쪽 좌석을 선호하시나요?

— Translation: Do you prefer an aisle seat or a window seat on the airplane?

Understanding 통로 requires recognizing its versatility. Whether you are navigating a physical maze, looking for an exit during a fire drill, or discussing the flow of information in a network, this word provides the necessary framework to describe the 'way through'. It is less about the 'road' (which might be ) and more about the 'passage' that exists between other structures.

Using 통로 correctly involves pairing it with verbs that describe movement, obstruction, or creation. Because it is a noun, it frequently takes the subject marker -가/이 or the object marker -를/을. To master its usage, one must look at the specific contexts of 'passing', 'blocking', and 'finding'.

Movement Verbs
Common verbs used with 통로 include 지나다 (to pass), 이용하다 (to use), and 통과하다 (to go through). For example, '통로를 지나가다' (to go through the passage) is a standard way to describe walking through an aisle.
Obstructive Verbs
When a passage is not clear, we use 막다 (to block) or 방해하다 (to obstruct). A common sentence in crowded areas is '통로를 막지 마세요' (Please do not block the aisle). Conversely, to clear a passage, one would use 비우다 (to empty/clear) or 확보하다 (to secure/ensure).

화재 시에는 통로를 확보하는 것이 가장 중요합니다.

— Translation: In case of a fire, securing a passage is the most important thing.

In grammatical structures, 통로 often acts as the location for an action, requiring the particle -에 or -에서. For instance, '통로에 서 있다' (standing in the aisle). If you are referring to the aisle as a means of travel, you might use the instrumental particle -(으)로, as in '이 통로로 오세요' (Please come through this passage).

이 문은 지하 주차장으로 연결되는 유일한 통로입니다.

— Translation: This door is the only passage connecting to the underground parking lot.

Finally, when describing the attributes of a passage, adjectives like 좁다 (narrow), 넓다 (wide), 복잡하다 (crowded/complex), and 어둡다 (dark) are frequently used. '좁은 통로' (a narrow passage) is a very common collocation used in literature and daily descriptions alike.

If you visit South Korea, you will hear 통로 in a variety of public and professional settings. It is a word that bridges the gap between formal announcements and everyday navigation. Understanding where it pops up will help you recognize it instantly in real-world scenarios.

Public Transportation
On the KTX (high-speed train) or long-distance buses, the crew will often make announcements like, '통로에 짐을 두지 마십시오' (Please do not leave luggage in the aisle). At airports, ground staff might direct you to a specific 통로 to board your plane. In these contexts, the word is synonymous with 'aisle' or 'boarding ramp'.
Shopping and Retail
In massive department stores like Lotte or Shinsegae, or large discount stores like E-mart, shoppers often ask employees, '이 통로에 뭐가 있나요?' (What is in this aisle?). Signs hanging from the ceiling often number the aisles, such as '1번 통로' (Aisle 1), helping customers navigate thousands of products.

실례합니다, 통로 쪽으로 좀 비켜 주시겠어요?

— Translation: Excuse me, could you please step aside toward the aisle?

In news broadcasts, 통로 is used to describe geopolitical or economic routes. You might hear about a 'humanitarian passage' (인도주의적 통로) in conflict zones or a 'trade channel' (무역 통로) between countries. This usage elevates the word from a simple floor-space description to a significant term in international relations and logistics.

지하철역의 연결 통로가 공사 중이라서 돌아가야 해요.

— Translation: The connecting passage in the subway station is under construction, so we have to go around.

Lastly, in the digital age, 통로 is used to describe the flow of data or the 'pathway' for software processes. While '경로' (path/route) is also common, 통로 emphasizes the physical-like structure through which data 'passes'. You might hear IT professionals discuss '데이터 통로' (data passage/bus) when talking about hardware architecture.

While 통로 is a versatile word, learners often confuse it with other Korean words that translate to 'path', 'road', or 'hallway' in English. Distinguishing between these nuances is key to sounding like a native speaker.

통로 vs. 복도 (Hallway/Corridor)
This is the most common confusion. A 복도 (bok-do) is specifically a hallway inside a building (like a school or apartment) with rooms on either side. A 통로 is more general; it can be an aisle between seats, a path between buildings, or an underground passage. If you are in a hotel, you walk down the 복도. If you are in a supermarket, you walk down the 통로.
통로 vs. 길 (Road/Way)
길 (gil) is the general word for any road, street, or path. It is much broader than 통로. Use for the street you drive on or the path you walk in a park. Use 통로 when the path is defined by boundaries on both sides, like shelves, seats, or walls of a narrow tunnel.

❌ 학교 통로에서 뛰지 마세요. (Awkward)
✅ 학교 복도에서 뛰지 마세요. (Correct)

— Explanation: In a school building, the space between classrooms is specifically a 'bok-do' (hallway).

Another mistake involves the abstract use of 'way'. If you want to say 'There is no way to solve this', you should use 방법 (bang-beop) or 길 (gil), not 통로. 통로 is only used abstractly when referring to a 'channel' of communication or a 'gateway' for things to pass through, not a 'method'.

❌ 성공으로 가는 통로. (Uncommon)
✅ 성공으로 가는 . (Natural)

— Explanation: 'The road to success' uses 'gil' because it is a metaphorical journey, not a physical passage.

Finally, be careful with the particle usage. While you can say '통로를 지나다' (pass the passage), learners sometimes use '통로를 가다' which sounds slightly incomplete. It is better to say '통로를 통해 가다' (go through the passage) to emphasize the 'through' aspect of the movement.

To truly master 통로, you should understand its synonyms and related terms. Korean has many words for 'paths', each with a specific nuance based on location and function.

복도 (Bok-do) - Hallway
As mentioned, this is strictly for interior corridors in buildings. It usually implies a finished floor, lighting, and doors leading to rooms. 통로 is more utilitarian and can be found outdoors or in vehicles.
길 (Gil) - Road/Path
The most general term. If you don't know which word to use, is often a safe bet, but it lacks the specific 'aisle' or 'passage' meaning that 통로 provides. can also mean 'street' or 'way/method'.
경로 (Gyeong-ro) - Route/Path
This word focuses on the 'course' or 'sequence' of a journey. GPS systems use 경로. While 통로 is the physical space, 경로 is the planned line of movement from start to finish.
터널 (Teo-neol) - Tunnel
A 터널 is a specific type of 통로 that goes through a mountain or underground for vehicles. While a tunnel is a passage, you wouldn't call a grocery store aisle a 'tunnel' unless it was very dark and enclosed!

비밀 통로 vs. 비밀

— Note: '비밀 통로' sounds like a hidden passage in a castle wall, while '비밀 길' sounds like a secret backroad in a forest.

In formal documents, you might also see 통행로 (tong-haeng-ro). This specifically means 'a path for passage' and is often used in legal or traffic contexts to define where people are legally allowed to walk or drive.

Choosing the right word depends on the 'containment'. If the path is enclosed or between two rows of things, 통로 is your best choice. If it is an open road, go with . If it is inside a residential or office building, 복도 is the standard.

How Formal Is It?

Le savais-tu ?

The character 通 (tong) is the same one used in 'communication' (소통) and 'traffic' (교통), highlighting the concept of 'flow'.

Guide de prononciation

UK tʰoŋ.no
US tʰoŋ.no
In Korean, syllables generally have equal stress, but there is a slight emphasis on the first syllable '통'.
Rime avec
종로 (Jong-no - a famous area in Seoul) 항로 (Hang-no - sea route) 경로 (Gyeong-no - route) 공로 (Gong-no - merit) 동로 (Dong-no - east road) 풍로 (Pung-no - furnace) 수로 (Su-ro - waterway) 도로 (Do-ro - road)
Erreurs fréquentes
  • Pronouncing it as [tong-ro] with a clear 'r/l' sound. It must be [tong-no].
  • Over-emphasizing the 'g' in 'tong'. The 'ㅇ' is a soft nasal velar sound.
  • Vocalizing the 'o' as in 'toe'. It should be a shorter, more closed 'o'.
  • Separating the syllables too much. They should flow together naturally.
  • Misreading the Hanja and thinking it means 'total road' (총로).

Niveau de difficulté

Lecture 2/5

Easy to recognize in signs and texts.

Écriture 3/5

Requires remembering the correct Hanja-based spelling.

Expression orale 3/5

Must master the nasalization rule [통노].

Écoute 3/5

Can be confused with '복도' or '도로' if not listening carefully.

Quoi apprendre ensuite

Prérequis

길 (road) 방 (room) 가다 (to go) 오다 (to come) 사람 (person)

Apprends ensuite

복도 (hallway) 입구 (entrance) 출구 (exit) 비상구 (emergency exit) 연결하다 (to connect)

Avancé

소통 (communication) 교통 (traffic) 유통 (distribution) 경로 (route) 매개체 (medium)

Grammaire à connaître

Nasalization (ㅇ + ㄹ -> ㅇ + ㄴ)

통로 -> [통노]

Directional particle -(으)로

통로로 가세요.

Location particle -에서 (active)

통로에서 기다려요.

Noun modifying form -는

지하철로 연결되는 통로

Compound nouns

비상 + 통로 = 비상 통로

Exemples par niveau

1

통로가 좁아요.

The aisle is narrow.

Subject marker -가 is used with 좁다 (to be narrow).

2

여기는 통로입니다.

This is a passage.

Standard 'A is B' structure with -입니다.

3

통로에 사과가 있어요.

There are apples in the aisle.

Location particle -에 indicates where the apples are.

4

통로로 가세요.

Please go through the passage.

Directional particle -로 with imperative -세요.

5

이 통로가 어디예요?

Where does this passage go?

Question word 어디 (where) used with -예요.

6

통로가 깨끗해요.

The passage is clean.

Adjective 깨끗하다 (to be clean) describing the noun.

7

저 통로를 보세요.

Look at that passage.

Object marker -를 with the verb 보다 (to see).

8

통로가 길어요.

The passage is long.

Adjective 길다 (to be long) used as a predicate.

1

통로 쪽 좌석으로 주세요.

Please give me an aisle seat.

통로 쪽 (aisle side) functions as an adjective phrase.

2

마트 통로에서 친구를 만났어요.

I met a friend in the supermarket aisle.

Location particle -에서 indicates where the action happened.

3

비상 통로를 확인하세요.

Please check the emergency passage.

Compound noun 비상 (emergency) + 통로.

4

통로에 짐을 두지 마세요.

Do not leave luggage in the aisle.

Negative imperative -지 마세요 (don't do...).

5

이 통로는 밖으로 연결돼요.

This passage connects to the outside.

Passive verb 연결되다 (to be connected).

6

통로가 너무 복잡해요.

The passage is too crowded.

Adverb 너무 (too/very) modifying the adjective.

7

왼쪽 통로를 이용해 주세요.

Please use the left passage.

Polite request form -아/어 주세요.

8

통로 끝에 화장실이 있어요.

There is a restroom at the end of the aisle.

Noun 끝 (end) used to specify location.

1

통로를 막고 있는 상자를 치워주세요.

Please move the boxes that are blocking the passage.

Present progressive participle -고 있는 modifying 'boxes'.

2

안전을 위해 통로를 비워 두어야 합니다.

For safety, the passage must be kept clear.

-아/어 두다 (to do something for future use) + -어야 하다 (must).

3

이 길은 지하철역으로 가는 유일한 통로예요.

This road is the only passage to the subway station.

Adjective 유일한 (only/unique) modifying the noun.

4

사람들이 통로를 통해 대피하고 있어요.

People are evacuating through the passage.

-를 통해 (through/by way of) indicates the medium.

5

비행기 안에서 통로를 걷는 것은 힘들어요.

Walking in the aisle on a plane is difficult.

Gerund form -는 것 (walking) used as a subject.

6

통로 바닥이 미끄러우니 조심하세요.

The passage floor is slippery, so be careful.

Causal connector -(으)니 (since/because).

7

새로운 통로를 만드는 공사가 시작되었습니다.

Construction to create a new passage has begun.

Noun-modifying form -는 (creating) + noun 공사.

8

이 통로는 휠체어도 지나갈 수 있을 만큼 넓어요.

This passage is wide enough for a wheelchair to pass.

-을 만큼 (as much as/enough to) indicates degree.

1

인터넷은 정보가 흐르는 중요한 통로가 되었습니다.

The internet has become an important channel through which information flows.

Metaphorical use of 통로 as a 'channel'.

2

두 나라 사이의 대화 통로가 끊겼습니다.

The channel of dialogue between the two countries has been cut off.

Abstract usage referring to communication channels.

3

이 항구는 유럽으로 가는 무역의 통로입니다.

This port is a gateway for trade to Europe.

Usage as a 'gateway' or 'route' for commerce.

4

작가는 글을 통해 자신의 생각을 전달하는 통로를 만듭니다.

The writer creates a channel to convey their thoughts through writing.

Complex sentence with multiple modifying clauses.

5

혈관은 우리 몸의 영양분을 운반하는 통로 역할을 합니다.

Blood vessels act as passages that transport nutrients in our body.

Scientific usage in biology.

6

정부는 시민들과의 소통 통로를 넓히겠다고 약속했습니다.

The government promised to broaden the channels of communication with citizens.

Indirect speech -겠다고 (that they would...).

7

그 사건은 새로운 문화가 유입되는 통로가 되었습니다.

That event became a channel through which a new culture was introduced.

Passive noun-modifying form 유입되는 (being introduced).

8

비밀 통로를 발견한 것은 정말 우연이었습니다.

Finding the secret passage was a complete coincidence.

Past tense gerund -ㄴ 것 (the fact of finding).

1

신경 통로는 뇌의 명령을 신체 각 부위로 전달하는 핵심적인 구조입니다.

Neural pathways are key structures that transmit the brain's commands to various parts of the body.

Technical/Scientific register.

2

에너지 통로의 다변화는 국가 안보에 필수적인 요소입니다.

Diversification of energy channels is an essential element for national security.

Formal political/economic register.

3

문학은 인간의 내면세계를 탐구하는 중요한 통로로 기능해 왔습니다.

Literature has functioned as an important channel for exploring the inner world of humans.

Perfect aspect -아/어 오다 (has been doing).

4

전통과 현대가 만나는 통로로서 이 박물관은 큰 의미가 있습니다.

As a passage where tradition and modernity meet, this museum has great significance.

Particle -로서 (as/in the capacity of).

5

외교적 통로를 복원하기 위한 노력이 다각도로 진행되고 있습니다.

Efforts to restore diplomatic channels are underway from various angles.

Advanced vocabulary (다각도, 복원).

6

이 이론은 복잡한 사회 현상을 이해하는 새로운 통로를 제시합니다.

This theory presents a new pathway for understanding complex social phenomena.

Academic register.

7

자본의 이동 통로가 차단되자 경제 위기가 심화되었습니다.

As the channels for the movement of capital were blocked, the economic crisis deepened.

Connector -자 (as soon as/when).

8

언어는 한 민족의 정신을 엿볼 수 있는 가장 직접적인 통로입니다.

Language is the most direct channel through which one can glimpse the spirit of a nation.

Abstract philosophical usage.

1

그의 시는 고통받는 이들의 영혼을 어루만지는 치유의 통로가 되어 주었다.

His poetry became a channel of healing that caressed the souls of those who suffer.

High literary style.

2

권력의 통로가 소수에게 집중될 때 민주주의는 위협받게 마련이다.

When the channels of power are concentrated in a few, democracy is bound to be threatened.

-게 마련이다 (it is bound to/natural that...).

3

역사는 과거와 현재를 잇는 끊임없는 대화의 통로이다.

History is a channel of endless dialogue connecting the past and the present.

Metaphorical definition of a discipline.

4

기술의 진보는 인간 소외를 극복할 수 있는 새로운 통로를 열어줄 것인가?

Will the progress of technology open a new pathway to overcome human alienation?

Rhetorical question in a formal essay.

5

법적 통로를 통한 구제가 불가능할 경우 사회적 갈등은 증폭될 수밖에 없다.

If remedy through legal channels is impossible, social conflict is inevitably amplified.

-을 수밖에 없다 (no choice but to...).

6

예술가는 세상을 바라보는 독창적인 통로를 우리에게 선물한다.

Artists gift us with an original pathway through which to view the world.

Poetic expression.

7

정보의 유통 통로가 왜곡되면 진실은 쉽게 가려지기 마련이다.

If the distribution channels of information are distorted, truth is naturally obscured.

Advanced conditional and natural outcome structure.

8

심연의 통로를 지나 마침내 그는 자아의 본질과 마주하게 되었다.

Passing through the passage of the abyss, he finally came face to face with the essence of his ego.

Existential literary narrative.

Collocations courantes

통로를 막다
통로를 비우다
통로 쪽 좌석
비상 통로
연결 통로
지하 통로
좁은 통로
대화의 통로
무역 통로
통로를 확보하다

Phrases Courantes

통로를 비켜주세요

— Please step aside from the aisle. Used when someone is blocking your way.

실례합니다, 통로를 좀 비켜주세요.

통로가 꽉 막히다

— The passage is completely blocked. Used for heavy crowds or obstacles.

퇴근 시간에는 통로가 꽉 막혀요.

통로를 따라가다

— To follow the passage. Used for directions.

이 통로를 따라가면 출구가 나옵니다.

통로를 만들다

— To create a passage. Can be physical or metaphorical.

눈을 치워 통로를 만들었어요.

유일한 통로

— The only passage/way. Emphasizes lack of alternatives.

이것이 우리를 구원할 유일한 통로입니다.

비밀 통로

— A secret passage. Common in stories and historical sites.

성벽 뒤에 비밀 통로가 숨겨져 있어요.

통로가 뚫리다

— A passage is opened/cleared. Often used for news about blocked routes.

폭설로 막혔던 통로가 드디어 뚫렸습니다.

통로를 차단하다

— To block or cut off a passage. Often used in security or military contexts.

경찰이 범인의 도주 통로를 차단했습니다.

소통의 통로

— A channel for communication. Very common in social and political discussions.

SNS는 젊은 세대와 소통하는 통로입니다.

통로를 넓히다

— To widen a passage. Physical or metaphorical improvement.

정부는 수출 통로를 넓히기 위해 노력 중입니다.

Souvent confondu avec

통로 vs 복도

Bok-do is specifically an interior hallway in a building.

통로 vs

Gil is a general road or outdoor path.

통로 vs 도로

Do-ro is a paved road for cars.

Expressions idiomatiques

"숨통이 트이다"

— To be able to breathe again; to find a way out of a difficult situation. While '통로' isn't explicitly in the phrase, the '통' (pass) logic is related.

빚을 다 갚으니 이제야 숨통이 트인다.

informal
"길이 열리다"

— A way opens up; a new opportunity arises. Often used instead of '통로가 열리다'.

유학을 갈 길이 열렸어요.

neutral
"말문이 막히다"

— To be speechless. The 'passage' of speech is blocked.

너무 놀라서 말문이 막혔어요.

neutral
"숨겨진 통로"

— A hidden path to success or a secret method.

그는 성공의 숨겨진 통로를 알고 있는 것 같다.

neutral
"소통의 물꼬를 트다"

— To open the floodgates of communication. Similar to opening a '통로'.

드디어 두 사람 사이에 소통의 물꼬를 텄다.

metaphorical
"통로를 열어주다"

— To give someone an opportunity or a way to enter a field.

그 선배는 나에게 업계로 들어올 통로를 열어주었다.

neutral
"정보의 창구"

— A window/channel of information. Similar to '정보의 통로'.

이 웹사이트는 유용한 정보의 창구입니다.

formal
"꽉 막힌 사람"

— A stubborn person (whose 'passages' for ideas are blocked).

그는 정말 꽉 막힌 사람이라 대화가 안 돼요.

informal
"숨구멍"

— A breathing hole; a small escape or relief in a tight situation.

주말은 나에게 유일한 숨구멍이다.

informal
"맥을 짚다"

— To find the vital point/passage. Related to finding the right channel.

그는 문제의 맥을 정확히 짚었다.

neutral

Facile à confondre

통로 vs 복도

Both mean 'passage' in English.

Bok-do is for buildings with rooms; Tong-no is for aisles or general transit paths.

학교 복도 vs. 마트 통로

통로 vs 경로

Both relate to movement paths.

Gyeong-ro is the abstract route/course; Tong-no is the physical space.

최단 경로 vs. 좁은 통로

통로 vs 통행

Sounds similar and relates to passing.

Tong-haeng is the act of passing; Tong-no is the place where you pass.

통행 금지 vs. 통로 폐쇄

통로 vs 수단

Both can mean 'a way' to do something.

Su-dan is a 'means' or 'method'; Tong-no is a physical or communicative 'channel'.

교통 수단 vs. 소통 통로

통로 vs 터널

A tunnel is a type of passage.

Teo-neol is specifically through an obstacle (mountain/underground); Tong-no is any passage.

터널 통과 vs. 비밀 통로

Structures de phrases

A1

N + 이/가 좁아요/넓어요.

통로가 좁아요.

A2

N + 쪽 좌석

통로 쪽 좌석

B1

N + 를 통해 + Verb

통로를 통해 나갔어요.

B2

N + 의 통로 역할을 하다

소통의 통로 역할을 해요.

B2

N + 로 연결되는 통로

밖으로 연결되는 통로

C1

N + 을/를 확보하는 것이 필수적이다

통로를 확보하는 것이 필수적이다.

C1

N + 의 다변화

무역 통로의 다변화

C2

N + 은/는 ~의 직접적인 통로이다

언어는 정신의 직접적인 통로이다.

Famille de mots

Noms

통로 (passage)
통행 (passage/traffic)
통과 (passing through)
교통 (traffic)
유통 (distribution)

Verbes

통하다 (to pass through/communicate)
통과하다 (to pass through/succeed)
소통하다 (to communicate)

Adjectifs

통용되는 (commonly used)
원활한 (smooth/flowing)

Apparenté

길 (road)
복도 (hallway)
문 (door)
입구 (entrance)
출구 (exit)

Comment l'utiliser

frequency

Highly common in daily life, travel, and news.

Erreurs courantes
  • Using 통로 for a hallway in an apartment. 복도

    Inside residential or office buildings, the space between rooms is always '복도'.

  • Pronouncing it as [Tong-ro]. [Tong-no]

    The 'ㄹ' must change to 'ㄴ' because of the preceding 'ㅇ'.

  • Saying '성공으로 가는 통로' for 'way to success'. 성공으로 가는 길

    For metaphorical journeys, '길' is much more natural than '통로'.

  • Using 통로 as a verb (통로하다). 통하다

    통로 is a noun. The verb form is '통하다' (to pass through).

  • Confusing 통로 with 도로. 통로 (passage) / 도로 (road)

    도로 is for cars on streets; 통로 is for people in aisles or specific passages.

Astuces

The [N] Sound

Remember the nasalization! If you say 'Tong-ro', it sounds like you're reading a dictionary. Say 'Tong-no' to sound like a local.

Aisle vs. Window

Memorize '통로 쪽' (aisle) and '창가 쪽' (window). It's the most practical use of this word for travelers.

Look for the Sign

In Korean buildings, look for signs saying '비상 통로'. Knowing this word helps you find the way out in an emergency.

Particle Choice

Use '통로를 통해' when you want to say 'via' or 'through' the passage. It sounds very natural.

Don't confuse with 복도

If there are doors to rooms on the sides, it's probably a 복도. If it's between shelves or seats, it's a 통로.

Communication

Use '소통의 통로' in your writing to describe how people connect. It's a very common and sophisticated expression.

Aisle Numbers

In big stores, aisles are numbered. '3번 통로' means 'Aisle 3'. This helps you find items quickly.

Don't Block!

Koreans value clear paths. '통로를 비켜주세요' is a polite but firm way to ask someone to move.

Hanja Roots

Knowing that 'Tong' (通) means 'to pass' will help you learn dozens of other related words like traffic and communication.

Subway Announcements

Listen for this word next time you're on a Korean subway. It's often used in safety and boarding announcements.

Mémorise-le

Moyen mnémotechnique

Think of 'Tong' as the sound of a bell ringing through a long 'no' (narrow) tube. 'Tong-no' is the tube you pass through.

Association visuelle

Imagine a narrow supermarket aisle with 'Tong' written on one side and 'No' on the other. You are walking between them.

Word Web

Passage Aisle Exit Communication Flow Narrow Safety Connection

Défi

Next time you are in a grocery store, point to the aisle and say '이 통로는 1번이에요' (This is aisle number 1).

Origine du mot

Derived from Sino-Korean characters (Hanja).

Sens originel : A road or path that allows passing through.

Sino-Korean

Contexte culturel

No specific sensitivities, but always emphasize keeping '비상 통로' (emergency passages) clear.

In English, we use different words for 'aisle', 'corridor', and 'passage'. Korean '통로' is a more 'one-size-fits-all' term.

The 'Secret Passage' in historical K-dramas. Safety announcements on the KTX high-speed train. The concept of 'Communication Channels' in Korean business culture.

Pratique dans la vie réelle

Contextes réels

Supermarket

  • 몇 번 통로에 있어요?
  • 통로가 너무 좁아요.
  • 통로를 지나가다.
  • 통로 끝에 있어요.

Airplane/Train

  • 통로 쪽 좌석
  • 통로를 비워 주세요.
  • 통로에 짐을 두지 마세요.
  • 통로로 이동하세요.

Emergency

  • 비상 통로
  • 통로를 확보하다.
  • 통로를 따라 대피하다.
  • 통로가 막혔어요.

Buildings

  • 연결 통로
  • 지하 통로
  • 통로를 찾다.
  • 통로가 어두워요.

Abstract/Business

  • 대화의 통로
  • 소통 통로
  • 무역 통로
  • 정보의 통로

Amorces de conversation

"비행기 탈 때 창가 쪽이랑 통로 쪽 중에 어디를 더 좋아하세요?"

"이 마트는 통로가 넓어서 쇼핑하기 편하지 않나요?"

"혹시 이 건물에 지하 주차장으로 가는 통로가 어디인지 아세요?"

"우리가 대화할 수 있는 새로운 통로를 만들어보는 건 어떨까요?"

"비상 상황일 때 가장 먼저 확인해야 할 통로는 무엇일까요?"

Sujets d'écriture

오늘 내가 지나온 수많은 통로들에 대해 써보세요. (마트, 지하철, 사무실 등)

누군가와의 관계에서 '대화의 통로'가 막혔다고 느낀 적이 있나요?

내가 가장 좋아하는 '비밀 통로' 같은 장소가 있다면 소개해주세요.

도시의 통로들이 더 아름다워지려면 어떻게 해야 할까요?

미래에는 어떤 새로운 이동 통로가 생겨날까요?

Questions fréquentes

10 questions

복도 (Bok-do) is a hallway inside a building, like in a school or apartment. 통로 (Tong-no) is a more general term for any aisle or passage, like in a supermarket, an airplane, or an underground tunnel.

It is pronounced [통노]. The 'ㄹ' sound changes to 'ㄴ' because it follows the nasal sound 'ㅇ'. This is a standard Korean pronunciation rule.

No, for a 'method' or 'way to do something', use 방법 (bang-beop) or 길 (gil). 통로 is used for physical passages or metaphorical 'channels' (like communication).

It means 'aisle seat'. You use this phrase when booking a seat on a plane, train, or in a theater.

Not exactly. 비상구 (bisang-gu) is the 'emergency exit' door itself. 비상 통로 (bisang tong-no) is the 'emergency passage' or path leading to that exit.

Yes, it can refer to biological passages in the body, such as neural pathways (신경 통로) or respiratory passages.

It is a neutral word used in both everyday conversation and formal announcements. In very formal legal contexts, '통행로' might be used.

You say '통로를 막지 마세요' (Tong-no-reul mak-ji ma-se-yo).

Common adjectives include 좁다 (narrow), 넓다 (wide), 어둡다 (dark), 길다 (long), and 복잡하다 (crowded).

Yes, in IT, it can refer to a data bus or a channel through which information flows.

Teste-toi 200 questions

writing

Translate to Korean: 'Please clear the aisle.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Translate to Korean: 'I prefer an aisle seat.'

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Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Translate to Korean: 'The passage is narrow.'

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Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Write a sentence using '비상 통로' (emergency passage).

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Translate to Korean: 'Do not block the passage.'

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Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Translate to Korean: 'This is the only passage to the subway.'

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Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Write a sentence using '소통의 통로' (channel of communication).

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Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Translate to Korean: 'There is a secret passage behind the bookshelf.'

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writing

Translate to Korean: 'Construction of the connecting passage has started.'

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Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Write a sentence using '통로 쪽' (aisle side).

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writing

Translate: 'The supermarket aisle was crowded.'

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Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Translate: 'Follow this passage.'

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writing

Translate: 'We secured the escape passage.'

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writing

Translate: 'The data passage is fast.'

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writing

Translate: 'Is there a passage to the parking lot?'

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writing

Write a sentence about an airplane aisle.

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writing

Translate: 'The passage between the two buildings.'

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writing

Translate: 'The trade route was cut off.'

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writing

Translate: 'The neural pathway is complex.'

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writing

Translate: 'Please step aside toward the aisle.'

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Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

How do you ask for an aisle seat at the airport?

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

How do you tell someone they are blocking the aisle?

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

How do you ask where the emergency exit passage is?

Read this aloud:

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speaking

How do you say 'The aisle is too narrow for this cart'?

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

How do you suggest opening a channel of communication?

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

How do you describe a secret passage in a house?

Read this aloud:

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speaking

How do you ask for directions through a subway passage?

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

How do you tell someone to follow the passage to the exit?

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

How do you say 'I met him in the supermarket aisle'?

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

How do you ask 'Is this passage connected to the parking lot?'

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

How do you warn someone that the passage floor is slippery?

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

How do you say 'We need to secure the escape route'?

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

How do you explain that a passage is under construction?

Read this aloud:

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speaking

How do you say 'Communication is the passage to understanding'?

Read this aloud:

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speaking

How do you ask 'Which aisle has the milk?'

Read this aloud:

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speaking

How do you say 'Please keep the aisle clear'?

Read this aloud:

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speaking

How do you describe a long and dark passage?

Read this aloud:

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speaking

How do you say 'The trade channel is important for the economy'?

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

How do you ask 'Is there another passage?'

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

How do you say 'I found a way through the passage'?

Read this aloud:

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listening

Listen and choose the location: '통로에 짐을 두지 마십시오. 승객 여러분의 안전을 위해 협조 부탁드립니다.'

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
listening

Listen and choose the item: '실례합니다, 4번 통로에 우유가 어디 있나요?'

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
listening

Listen and identify the problem: '통로가 너무 좁아서 큰 카트가 지나갈 수 없어요.'

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
listening

Listen and identify the action: '비상 통로를 따라 침착하게 대피하시기 바랍니다.'

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
listening

Listen and choose the seat: '창가 쪽 말고 통로 쪽 좌석으로 예약해 주세요.'

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
listening

Listen and identify the status: '연결 통로가 공사 중이라서 돌아가야 합니다.'

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
listening

Listen and identify the topic: '두 나라의 대화 통로를 복원하는 것이 시급합니다.'

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
listening

Listen and identify the location: '지하 통로 끝에 화장실이 있습니다.'

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
listening

Listen and choose the correct Hanja meaning: '통로의 통(通)은 무슨 뜻입니까?'

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
listening

Listen and identify the object: '책장 뒤에 비밀 통로가 숨겨져 있었어요.'

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
listening

Listen and identify the warning: '통로 바닥이 미끄러우니 주의하세요.'

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
listening

Listen and identify the goal: '우리는 수출 통로를 넓히기 위해 노력하고 있습니다.'

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
listening

Listen and identify the count: '이 건물에는 세 개의 통로가 있습니다.'

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
listening

Listen and identify the instruction: '통로를 막지 마세요.'

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
listening

Listen and identify the role: '그는 정부와 시민 사이의 소통 통로 역할을 합니다.'

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :

/ 200 correct

Perfect score!

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