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A2 noun #3,000 most common 8 min read

생수

saengsu Top 3,000

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips 생수 in 30 Seconds

Explanation 생수 in your Level:

At the A1 level, '생수' (saengsu) is a very useful noun to learn because it relates to basic needs like thirst and shopping. You should learn it alongside the word 'mul' (water). While 'mul' is general, 'saengsu' is what you ask for at a convenience store. You will mostly use it in simple sentences like 'Saengsu juseyo' (Please give me bottled water). It is a 'concrete noun,' meaning it refers to a physical object you can see and touch. At this stage, don't worry about the complex Hanja origins; just remember that if you are in a store and need water, this is the word on the label. You should also learn the number 'han' (one) and the counter 'byeong' (bottle) to make a complete phrase: 'Saengsu han byeong.' This will help you survive in any Korean-speaking environment where you need to purchase basic supplies. Focus on the pronunciation: 'saeng' (like 'sang' in sangria) and 'su' (like 'sue'). It's short, easy to remember, and essential for daily life. You might also see it on signs in airports or train stations near vending machines. Just remember: if it's in a bottle and you're buying it, it's 'saengsu.'

At the A2 level, you begin to use '생수' in more varied contexts and with slightly more complex grammar. You should be able to use particles like '-를' (object) and '-가' (subject) correctly with the word. For example, 'Saengsu-reul masyeoyo' (I drink bottled water) or 'Saengsu-ga bissayo' (The bottled water is expensive). You will also encounter '생수' in the context of location, such as 'Pyeon-ui-jeome saengsu-ga isseoyo' (There is bottled water at the convenience store). At this level, you should also be aware of the difference between 'saengsu' and 'sudomul' (tap water), as you might need to ask about the source of water in a hotel or a new apartment. You might also start using adjectives to describe the water, such as 'siwonhan saengsu' (cold bottled water). This level is about expanding your ability to describe your environment and your preferences. You might say, 'Jeoneun sudomulboda saengsu-reul deo joahae-yo' (I like bottled water more than tap water). This shows you can make comparisons. You should also be comfortable using 'saengsu' with different verb tenses, like 'Saengsu-reul sasseoyo' (I bought bottled water) or 'Saengsu-reul sal go-ye-yo' (I will buy bottled water). It's a foundational word for navigating retail and service situations in Korea.

At the B1 level, you move beyond simple transactions and start using '생수' in discussions about lifestyle, health, and habits. You might talk about how many bottles of water you drink a day for health reasons: 'Geongang-eul wihaeseo maeil saengsu-reul du ritteossik masigo isseoyo' (I am drinking two liters of bottled water every day for my health). You will also encounter the word in more formal settings, such as at a workplace or during a presentation where 'saengsu' is provided for the guests. At this level, you should be able to understand and use compound words related to it, like 'saengsu-byeong' (water bottle) or 'saengsu-baedal' (water delivery). You might also participate in a conversation about the convenience of ordering water online versus buying it at a mart. Your grammar should include more complex connectors like '-neunde' or '-nikka.' For example, 'Saengsu-ga da tteoreojyeonneunde, jom sajullaeyo?' (The bottled water is all gone, so could you buy some?). This shows an ability to link ideas and make requests based on a situation. You will also start to notice 'saengsu' in the context of environmental issues, such as the amount of plastic waste generated by 'saengsu-byeong.' This level requires you to use the word to express opinions and describe common social scenarios in Korea.

At the B2 level, you can use '생수' in the context of social and environmental debates. You might discuss the environmental impact of the 'saengsu' industry in Korea, focusing on the sheer volume of plastic waste and the government's efforts to implement 'mu-rabel' (no-label) bottles. You can express complex thoughts like, 'Saengsu-byeong-ui rabel-eul jegohaneun geoseun jaehwal-yong-eul dopgi wihan joheun bangbeob-imnida' (Removing labels from water bottles is a good way to help recycling). You will also understand the market dynamics, such as why certain brands like Samdasoo are more popular than others due to their volcanic rock filtration process. Your vocabulary will expand to include terms like 'mi-ne-ral ham-ryang' (mineral content) or 'su-won-ji' (water source). You can read news articles about the 'saengsu' market and understand the nuances of consumer behavior. At this level, you should be able to use the word in hypothetical situations or to give advice: 'Man-yak jaenanyi balsaenghamyeon saengsu-reul chungbunhi bichihaneun geosi jung-yohamnida' (If a disaster occurs, it is important to store enough bottled water). This level of proficiency means you can handle almost any conversation involving water, from its health benefits to its economic and ecological footprint in Korean society.

At the C1 level, your use of '생수' is sophisticated and contextually precise. You can discuss the word's Hanja roots (生水) and how the concept of 'raw/living water' contrasts with 'boiled water' in traditional Korean thought. You can analyze the 'saengsu' industry's growth as a reflection of Korea's rapid urbanization and the subsequent distrust of public infrastructure in the late 20th century. You will be able to use the word in academic or professional discussions about resource management and privatization. For instance, you might discuss the 'saengsu sijang-ui gwayeol' (overheating of the bottled water market) and the marketing strategies used to differentiate brands. Your language will include high-level idioms and formal registers. You might use 'saengsu' as an example in a broader discussion about 'sa-chi-jae' (luxury goods) versus 'pil-su-jae' (essentials). You can also understand the subtle social cues, such as the prestige associated with certain premium imported water brands in upscale areas of Seoul. At this stage, 'saengsu' is not just a commodity but a data point in a larger socio-economic analysis of Korean consumer culture. You can write essays or give presentations on the sustainability of the 'saengsu' industry, using advanced transition words and specialized terminology without hesitation.

At the C2 level, you have a near-native grasp of '생수' and its place in the Korean lexicon and psyche. You can engage in deep philosophical or legal debates regarding the commodification of 'saengsu.' You might explore the ethics of selling 'saengsu' from public aquifers and the long-term impact on the water table. Your command of the language allows you to use 'saengsu' in creative writing, perhaps as a metaphor for purity or the sterile nature of modern life. You understand the historical shift from 'yaksu' (natural spring water) to 'saengsu' (industrialized water) and can articulate how this reflects a change in the Korean relationship with nature. You can navigate the most technical documents regarding 'saengsu' quality standards and government regulations (KFDA). You are aware of the most obscure brands and the regional politics of water sourcing (e.g., the specific regulations surrounding Jeju Island's water). Your speech is indistinguishable from a highly educated native speaker, using 'saengsu' with perfect intonation and within complex, multi-clausal sentences that reflect a high degree of cognitive complexity. You can critique 'saengsu' advertisements not just for their language, but for their cultural semiotics, understanding exactly how the word is used to evoke specific emotions and nationalistic pride (in the case of domestic brands).

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

생수 in 30 Seconds

Saengsu means bottled water sold in plastic containers.
It is used in stores, gyms, and for delivery.
It is distinct from tap water and purified water.
Commonly paired with the counter 'byeong' (bottle).

The Korean word 생수 (Saeng-su) is a noun that translates directly to 'bottled water' or 'mineral water.' Etymologically, it comes from the Hanja characters 生 (saeng) meaning 'raw' or 'living' and 水 (su) meaning 'water.' Unlike tap water, which is referred to as sudo-mul, or purified water from a machine called jeongsugi-mul, 생수 specifically refers to the commercial product sold in plastic bottles. In the modern Korean lifestyle, this word is ubiquitous, appearing in every convenience store (pyeon-ui-jeom), supermarket, and vending machine across the peninsula. For English speakers, it is important to distinguish between just asking for 'water' (mul) and specifically asking for 'bottled water' (생수), especially in contexts where you might be charged for the bottle or when you are looking for a specific brand like Samdasoo or Baeksansoo.

Commercial Context: When you enter a GS25 or CU (popular Korean convenience stores), you won't ask for 'water bottles'; you will look for the 생수 section. It is sold in various sizes, most commonly 500ml for individual consumption and 2L for household use.

편의점에서 생수 한 병을 샀어요. (I bought a bottle of bottled water at the convenience store.)

Historically, Korea relied heavily on boiled water like barley tea (boricha) or corn silk tea (oksusu-cha) for daily hydration. However, since the 1990s, the market for 생수 has exploded. Today, it is a symbol of convenience and health. People use it while hiking, during workouts at the gym, or even at home if they do not have a water purifier installed. The word carries a nuance of being clean, filtered, and ready-to-drink without any additional boiling or preparation.

Environmental Nuance: In recent years, the term 무라벨 생수 (label-less bottled water) has become popular in Korea as part of an eco-friendly movement to make recycling plastic bottles easier.

Furthermore, the word is often paired with the counter 병 (byeong), which means 'bottle.' So, if you want two bottles, you would say 생수 두 병. In casual settings, people might just say 'mul' (water), but in any retail or formal context, 생수 is the precise term to use to ensure you get exactly what you are looking for—a factory-sealed bottle of mineral water.

Using 생수 in a sentence requires an understanding of basic Korean particles and sentence structures. Since it is a noun, it often takes the object particle -를 when you are buying or drinking it, or the subject particle -가 when you are describing its availability or quality. For English speakers, the most common pitfall is forgetting the counter system. You don't just say 'one 생수'; you say 생수 한 병 (one bottle of bottled water).

가방에 생수가 있어요? (Is there bottled water in your bag?)

Ordering in a Store: When purchasing, use the polite 'juseyo' (please give me) form: 생수 한 병 주세요. This is the most essential phrase for a traveler or a beginner learner.

In more advanced contexts, you might discuss the mineral content or the source of the water. For example, 이 생수는 제주도에서 왔어요 (This bottled water came from Jeju Island). This highlights the origin, which is a significant marketing point for water brands in Korea. Another common usage is in the context of delivery. Many Koreans order large quantities of 생수 online because carrying 2L bottles from the store is physically demanding. You might hear someone say, 생수를 주문했어요 (I ordered bottled water).

When talking about health or preferences, you might use the verb 마시다 (to drink). For example, 저는 매일 생수를 2리터 마셔요 (I drink 2 liters of bottled water every day). This sentence demonstrates how to include measurements. If you are at a hotel and wondering if the water in the fridge is free, you might ask, 이 생수는 무료인가요? (Is this bottled water free?). This is a vital question to avoid unexpected mini-bar charges.

운동할 때 생수는 필수예요. (Bottled water is essential when exercising.)

You will encounter the word 생수 in several distinct environments in Korea. The first and most frequent is the Pyeon-ui-jeom (convenience store). If you ask a clerk where the water is, they will point you to the 생수 코너 (bottled water corner). You will also hear it in television commercials. Brands like Jeju Samdasoo, which features famous celebrities, use the word 생수 to emphasize purity and nature. In these ads, the word is often associated with images of pristine forests and volcanic rocks.

Outdoor Activities: On hiking trails (deungsan-ro), you will see vendors selling cold bottles of water. They will often shout 'Saengsu! Saengsu!' to attract thirsty hikers. In this context, it's the ultimate refreshment.

In the corporate world, 생수 is frequently heard during meetings. An assistant might ask, 생수 좀 더 드릴까요? (Shall I give you some more bottled water?). It is the standard beverage provided at conferences and seminars, usually placed in front of each participant. Additionally, you will hear it in the context of household management. When a family runs out of water, someone might say, 생수가 다 떨어졌어 (We've run out of bottled water), prompting an online order or a trip to the mart.

마라톤 대회에서 생수를 나눠주고 있어요. (They are giving out bottled water at the marathon race.)

Lastly, you'll hear it in the news regarding environmental policies. Discussions about 'Saengsu byeong' (water bottles) and their impact on plastic waste are common. News anchors might report on new recycling regulations specifically for 생수 bottles. Understanding this word helps you navigate both the physical landscape of Korea—from stores to mountain peaks—and the cultural landscape of health and environmental awareness.

The most common mistake for English speakers is using 생수 when they should just use mul (water). While 생수 is more specific, using it in every context can sound unnatural. For example, if you are at a friend's house and want a glass of water from their purifier, asking for 생수 might make them think you want them to go buy a bottle for you. In that case, simply saying 물 좀 주세요 (Please give me some water) is much more appropriate.

Confusing with 'Yaksu': Another mistake is confusing 생수 with 약수 (yaksu). Yaksu refers to natural spring water found in the mountains, often believed to have medicinal properties. You wouldn't call a bottle of water from a store 'yaksu,' and you wouldn't call the water from a mountain spring 'saengsu.'

Grammatically, learners often struggle with the counter 병. They might say 'saengsu hana' instead of 생수 한 병. While 'hana' is understood, using the counter is the mark of a proficient speaker. Another error involves the particle usage. Since 생수 is often the object of a verb (buying, drinking), learners sometimes omit the object particle -를 in formal writing, though it is often dropped in casual speech. For example, 생수 샀어 is fine for friends, but 생수를 샀습니다 is better for formal contexts.

Finally, some learners confuse 생수 with su-do-mul (tap water). It is culturally rare for Koreans to drink tap water directly without filtering or boiling it first. Therefore, if you are at a restaurant and want to know if the water provided is bottled or tap, asking 이거 생수예요? is a valid way to check the source, but don't assume all 'mul' is 'saengsu.'

Understanding the family of 'water' words in Korean will help you choose the right term for the right situation. While 생수 is specific to bottled water, there are several other terms you should know to be truly fluent in the 'water' domain of the Korean language.

물 (Mul): The general term for water. Use this when you are thirsty and don't care about the source. It is the umbrella term for all other types.
정수기 물 (Jeongsugi-mul): Water from a filtration machine. This is what you most commonly drink in Korean homes and offices. It is purified but not bottled.
수돗물 (Sudomul): Tap water. In Korea, this is mostly used for washing dishes, laundry, and showering. While safe to drink, most Koreans prefer 생수 or purified water for taste and health reasons.

There is also 미네랄 워터 (Mineral Water), which is the English loanword often used in high-end hotels or premium brands. It is essentially the same as 생수, but with a more sophisticated, international feel. If you are looking for carbonated water, you must ask for 탄산수 (Tansansoo). If you ask for 생수, you will never receive carbonated water.

식당에서는 보통 정수기 물을 줘요. (In restaurants, they usually give you water from a purifier.)

Lastly, consider 약수 (Yaksu) as mentioned before. This is 'medicinal water' from nature. In summary, use 생수 for the plastic bottle you buy at the store, 물 for general thirst, 정수기 물 for the water from the machine at the office, and 수돗물 for the tap.

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

In the past, 'saengsu' referred to any unboiled water. Today, it specifically means the commercial product in a bottle.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /sɛŋ.su/

US /seɪŋ.su/

The stress is equal on both syllables, common in Korean phonology.

Rhymes With

냉수 (naengsu - cold water) 온수 (onsu - hot water) 정수 (jeongsu - purified water) 약수 (yaksu - spring water) 육수 (yuksu - broth) 식수 (siksu - drinking water) 급수 (geupsu - water supply) 분수 (bunsu - fountain)

Common Errors

Don't pronounce the 'ng' too heavily; it's a soft nasal ending.
Avoid making 'su' sound like 'shoo'; keep the 's' sharp.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 1/5

Very easy to read in Hangeul.

Writing 2/5

Simple to write, just remember the 'ng' final.

Speaking 2/5

Easy to pronounce, but must remember the counter 'byeong'.

Listening 1/5

Very distinct sound, easy to pick out in speech.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

물 (water) 병 (bottle) 하나/둘 (numbers)

Learn Next

음료수 (beverage) 정수기 (purifier) 커피 (coffee) 우유 (milk) 주스 (juice)

Advanced

수질 (water quality) 미네랄 (mineral) 유통기한 (expiration date) 분리수거 (recycling) 플라스틱 (plastic)

Grammar to Know

Counter '병' (byeong)

생수 한 병, 두 병...

Object Particle '-를' (reul)

생수를 사요.

Subject Particle '-가' (ga)

생수가 시원해요.

Polite Request '-주세요' (juseyo)

생수 주세요.

Location Particle '-에' (e)

가방에 생수가 있어요.

Examples by Level

생수 한 병 주세요.

Please give me one bottle of water.

Uses the polite request form '-주세요'.

생수가 어디에 있어요?

Where is the bottled water?

Uses the location question pattern '-이/가 어디에 있어요?'

이거 생수예요?

Is this bottled water?

Uses the identification pattern '-예요?'

생수 세 병 샀어요.

I bought three bottles of water.

Uses the past tense '-았/었어여'.

생수는 시원해요.

The bottled water is cold.

Uses the adjective '시원하다' (to be cool/cold).

가방에 생수가 있어요.

There is bottled water in the bag.

Uses the existence pattern '-에 있어요'.

생수 마셔요.

I drink bottled water.

Uses the verb '마시다' (to drink).

생수하고 우유 주세요.

Please give me bottled water and milk.

Uses the connective particle '-하고' (and).

편의점에서 생수를 팔아요.

They sell bottled water at the convenience store.

Uses the object particle '-를' and the verb '팔다' (to sell).

너무 더워서 생수를 샀어요.

It was so hot that I bought bottled water.

Uses the reason connector '-아서/어서'.

이 생수는 얼마예요?

How much is this bottled water?

Uses the demonstrative '이' (this) and '얼마예요' (how much).

생수 한 병에 천 원이에요.

It is 1,000 won for one bottle of water.

Uses the particle '-에' to indicate a unit price.

식당에서 생수를 주문했어요.

I ordered bottled water at the restaurant.

Uses the location particle '-에서'.

생수가 필요해요.

I need bottled water.

Uses the 'need' pattern '-이/가 필요하다'.

여기 생수 있어요?

Do you have bottled water here?

Uses '여기' (here) as the location.

생수를 많이 마시면 좋아요.

It is good if you drink a lot of bottled water.

Uses the conditional '-면' (if/when).

요즘은 생수를 배달해서 마셔요.

These days, I have bottled water delivered and drink it.

Uses the sequential connector '-아서/어서' (do and then).

생수병을 재활용해야 해요.

We must recycle water bottles.

Uses the obligation pattern '-해야 하다'.

운동할 때 생수를 챙겨 가세요.

Please remember to take bottled water when you exercise.

Uses the 'take/bring' verb '챙기다'.

수돗물보다 생수가 더 깨끗한 것 같아요.

I think bottled water is cleaner than tap water.

Uses the comparison '-보다' and the opinion '-는 것 같다'.

생수가 다 떨어져서 마트에 가야 해요.

We ran out of bottled water, so I have to go to the mart.

Uses the idiom '다 떨어지다' (to run out).

어떤 브랜드의 생수를 좋아하세요?

Which brand of bottled water do you like?

Uses the word '브랜드' (brand) and the honorific '-세요'.

생수 2리터짜리 여섯 병을 샀어요.

I bought six 2-liter bottles of water.

Uses '-짜리' to indicate the value or size.

여행 갈 때 생수를 꼭 가져가요.

I always take bottled water when I go on a trip.

Uses '꼭' (definitely/surely).

환경을 생각해서 생수 소비를 줄여야 합니다.

We must reduce bottled water consumption for the environment.

Uses the formal ending '-습니다'.

무라벨 생수가 출시되어 분리배출이 쉬워졌어요.

Label-less water bottles have been released, making recycling easier.

Uses the passive '출시되다' and the change of state '-어지다'.

생수의 미네랄 함량을 확인하고 구매하는 편이에요.

I tend to check the mineral content of bottled water before buying.

Uses the tendency pattern '-는 편이다'.

최근 생수 시장의 경쟁이 매우 치열해졌습니다.

Recently, competition in the bottled water market has become very intense.

Uses the noun '경쟁' (competition) and '치열하다' (intense).

수원지가 어디냐에 따라 생수의 맛이 달라요.

The taste of bottled water differs depending on the water source.

Uses '-에 따라' (depending on).

생수병의 뚜껑을 꼭 닫아서 보관하세요.

Please store it with the water bottle cap tightly closed.

Uses the sequential connector '-아서/어서'.

플라스틱 생수병 대신 텀블러를 사용합시다.

Let's use tumblers instead of plastic water bottles.

Uses '-대신' (instead of) and '-읍시다' (let's).

생수는 직사광선을 피해 서늘한 곳에 두어야 해요.

Bottled water should be kept in a cool place away from direct sunlight.

Uses '피해' (avoiding) and the obligation pattern.

생수 산업의 성장은 현대인의 위생에 대한 관심을 반영합니다.

The growth of the bottled water industry reflects modern people's interest in hygiene.

Uses advanced vocabulary like '반영하다' (reflect).

제주 삼다수는 한국에서 가장 점유율이 높은 생수 브랜드입니다.

Jeju Samdasoo is the bottled water brand with the highest market share in Korea.

Uses '점유율' (market share).

생수의 민영화 문제는 공공재로서의 물의 가치와 충돌합니다.

The issue of water privatization conflicts with the value of water as a public good.

Uses '민영화' (privatization) and '공공재' (public good).

일부 프리미엄 생수는 와인만큼이나 비싼 가격에 거래되기도 합니다.

Some premium bottled waters are traded at prices as expensive as wine.

Uses '-만큼이나' (as much as) and '거래되다' (to be traded).

수질 오염에 대한 우려가 생수 수요를 급증시켰습니다.

Concerns about water pollution have caused a surge in demand for bottled water.

Uses '우려' (concern) and '급증시키다' (to cause a surge).

생수병 라벨 제거 의무화는 자원 순환의 일환입니다.

Mandating the removal of water bottle labels is part of resource circulation.

Uses '의무화' (mandating) and '일환' (part of).

기업들은 친환경적인 생수 패키징 개발에 박차를 가하고 있습니다.

Companies are accelerating the development of eco-friendly bottled water packaging.

Uses the idiom '박차를 가하다' (to accelerate/spur).

생수의 유통 기한은 대개 제조일로부터 6개월에서 1년입니다.

The shelf life of bottled water is usually 6 months to 1 year from the date of manufacture.

Uses '유통 기한' (shelf life) and '제조일' (manufacture date).

생수의 상품화는 물이라는 근원적 자원에 대한 인식의 전환을 야기했습니다.

The commodification of bottled water has caused a shift in the perception of water as a fundamental resource.

Uses '상품화' (commodification) and '인식의 전환' (shift in perception).

지하수 고갈 문제는 무분별한 생수 취수에서 비롯된 측면이 큽니다.

The problem of groundwater depletion is largely rooted in the indiscriminate extraction of water for bottling.

Uses '취수' (water intake/extraction) and '비롯되다' (to originate from).

생수 브랜드의 마케팅은 종종 자연의 순수성을 과도하게 신비화하곤 합니다.

Marketing for bottled water brands often excessively mystifies the purity of nature.

Uses '신비화하다' (to mystify) and '-하곤 하다' (habitual action).

미세 플라스틱 검출 문제는 생수 안전성에 대한 새로운 화두를 던졌습니다.

The issue of microplastic detection has raised new questions about the safety of bottled water.

Uses '화두를 던지다' (to raise an issue/topic).

생수 소비 패턴의 변화는 인구 구조 및 라이프스타일의 변천과 궤를 같이합니다.

Changes in bottled water consumption patterns go hand in hand with changes in demographic structure and lifestyle.

Uses the idiom '궤를 같이하다' (to go hand in hand/align).

고도의 정수 기술이 도입되면서 생수와 수돗물의 경계가 모호해지고 있습니다.

With the introduction of advanced purification technology, the boundary between bottled water and tap water is becoming blurred.

Uses '모호해지다' (to become blurred/vague).

생수 시장의 포화 상태는 기업들로 하여금 차별화된 전략을 강구하게 만듭니다.

The saturation of the bottled water market forces companies to devise differentiated strategies.

Uses '포화 상태' (saturation) and '강구하다' (to devise/seek).

물 부족 국가에서 생수의 보급은 생존과 직결된 중차대한 사안입니다.

In water-stressed countries, the distribution of bottled water is a critical issue directly linked to survival.

Uses '직결되다' (to be directly linked) and '중차대한' (crucial).

Common Collocations

생수 한 병

생수를 마시다

생수를 사다

생수 배달

생수 브랜드

생수병

시원한 생수

무라벨 생수

생수 코너

생수 2리터

Common Phrases

생수 한 병 주세요

— The standard way to ask for a bottle of water in a shop.

저기요, 생수 한 병 주세요.

생수가 다 떨어졌어요

— Used when you have run out of bottled water at home.

냉장고에 생수가 다 떨어졌어요.

생수 좀 사다 줄래?

— Asking someone to pick up some water for you.

오는 길에 생수 좀 사다 줄래?

생수 무료인가요?

— Asking if the water is free (usually in a hotel or restaurant).

방에 있는 생수 무료인가요?

생수병 라벨 떼기

— Referring to the act of removing the label for recycling.

생수병 라벨 떼기가 귀찮아요.

생수 묶음

— A pack or bundle of water bottles.

생수 묶음이 너무 무거워요.

생수 한 모금

— A sip of bottled water.

생수 한 모금만 마실게.

생수통

— A large water container or the bottle itself.

생수통을 깨끗이 씻으세요.

생수 값

— The price or cost of bottled water.

생수 값이 또 올랐어요.

생수 챙기기

— Remembering to bring water.

외출할 때 생수 챙기기 잊지 마세요.

Often Confused With

생수 vs 약수

Natural spring water from a mountain, not a bottle.

생수 vs 수돗물

Tap water from a faucet.

생수 vs 탄산수

Sparkling/carbonated water.

Idioms & Expressions

"물 쓰듯 하다"

— To spend money or resources very wastefully, like using water.

그는 돈을 물 쓰듯 해요.

informal

"물 만난 물고기"

— To be in one's element, like a fish in water.

무대 위의 그는 물 만난 물고기 같아요.

neutral

"물 불 안 가리다"

— To go through fire and water; to do anything to achieve a goal.

그는 성공을 위해 물 불 안 가려요.

neutral

"물 건너가다"

— To be too late; the opportunity has passed (crossed the river).

이번 기회는 이미 물 건너갔어요.

informal

"찬물을 끼얹다"

— To throw cold water on something; to spoil the mood.

그의 농담이 분위기에 찬물을 끼얹었어요.

neutral

"물과 기름"

— Like water and oil; two things that don't mix.

그 두 사람은 물과 기름 같은 사이예요.

neutral

"낙숫물이 바위를 뚫는다"

— Dripping water hollows out the stone; persistence pays off.

낙숫물이 바위를 뚫듯이 계속 노력하세요.

literary

"물 들어올 때 노 저어라"

— Row when the tide is in; make hay while the sun shines.

지금이 기회니 물 들어올 때 노 저으세요.

neutral

"가뭄에 콩 나듯"

— Like beans sprouting in a drought; very rare.

그는 가뭄에 콩 나듯 집에 와요.

neutral

"피는 물보다 진하다"

— Blood is thicker than water.

역시 피는 물보다 진하네요.

neutral

Easily Confused

생수 vs 물

Both mean water.

Mul is general; Saengsu is specifically bottled.

물 좀 줘 (Give me water) vs 생수 한 병 사 (Buy a bottle of water).

생수 vs 냉수

Both involve drinking.

Naengsu is specifically 'cold water' (can be tap or bottled).

냉수 마찰 (Cold water rub) vs 생수 한 병 (A bottle of water).

생수 vs 온수

Both involve drinking.

Onsu is hot water.

온수가 안 나와요 (Hot water isn't coming out).

생수 vs 정수

Both are clean water.

Jeongsu is filtered; Saengsu is bottled.

정수기 물 (Purified water).

생수 vs 식수

Both are for drinking.

Siksu is the general category of 'drinking water'.

식수 적합 (Fit for drinking).

Sentence Patterns

생수 [Number] [Counter] 주세요.

생수 한 병 주세요.

[Location]에 생수가 있어요.

냉장고에 생수가 있어요.

생수를 [Verb].

생수를 마셔요.

생수가 [Adjective].

생수가 비싸요.

[Reason]-아서/어서 생수를 샀어요.

목이 말라서 생수를 샀어요.

생수보다 [Noun]이/가 더 좋아요.

생수보다 주스가 더 좋아요.

생수를 [Verb]-는 편이에요.

생수를 배달해서 마시는 편이에요.

[Noun] 대신 생수를 마셔요.

커피 대신 생수를 마셔요.

Word Family

Nouns

생수병 (water bottle)

생수기 (water dispenser)

생수액 (bottled water liquid)

Verbs

생수하다 (rarely used, usually '생수를 마시다' or '사다')

Adjectives

생수 같은 (water-like, pure)

수돗물 (tap water)

정수기 (water purifier)

음료수 (beverage)

샘물 (spring water)

미네랄 (mineral)

How to Use It

frequency

Extremely high in daily life.

Common Mistakes

Asking for '생수' at a friend's house. → 물 좀 주세요.
Asking for 'saengsu' implies you want a commercial bottle, which might be awkward if they only have a purifier.
Saying '생수 하나' to a clerk. → 생수 한 병 주세요.
While understood, using the counter 'byeong' (bottle) is grammatically correct.
Confusing '생수' with '탄산수'. → 탄산수 (Sparkling water)
If you want bubbles, 'saengsu' will disappoint you. It is always still water.
Pronouncing it like 'Sang-su'. → Saeng-su
The 'ae' sound is distinct from a pure 'a' sound.
Thinking '생수' is free in all contexts. → Check the price.
Unlike the pitcher of water in restaurants, '생수' in bottles usually costs money.

Tips

Free Water

In Korea, water is almost always free in restaurants, but it's usually from a purifier. If you want a bottle, ask for '생수'.

Remove Labels

Koreans are very strict about recycling. Always peel off the label from your '생수' bottle before throwing it away.

Bulk Buy

If you live in Korea, order '생수' in 2L bundles online (like Coupang) to save a lot of money compared to convenience stores.

The Counter

Practice saying 'saengsu han-byeong' until it feels natural. Using the counter 'byeong' makes you sound much more fluent.

Daily Intake

Many Koreans track their health by how many 500ml '생수' bottles they drink. It's a common way to measure hydration.

Hotel Water

Most Korean hotels provide two free bottles of '생수' per day. Look for the 'Complimentary' tag.

Mountain Prep

Always buy '생수' before starting a hike. While there are 'yaksu' springs, they are not always tested for safety.

Samdasoo

If you're overwhelmed by choices, just pick Samdasoo (삼다수). It's the gold standard for '생수' in Korea.

Hanja Meaning

Remembering that 'Saeng' means 'living' can help you remember that this is 'fresh' water.

Sharing

If you are drinking '생수' in front of others, it is polite to offer them a bottle as well if you have extra.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

'Saeng' sounds like 'Sang' (as in 'Sang-ria', a drink) and 'Su' sounds like 'Sue'. Think of 'Sue' drinking 'Sang-ria' but it's actually 'Saeng-su'!

Visual Association

Imagine a clear plastic bottle with a bright blue label and the word SAENG-SU written on it in big Korean letters.

Word Web

Bottle Plastic Cold Thirst Convenience Store Mineral Clear Drink

Challenge

Try to order 'saengsu' at three different places: a convenience store, a restaurant, and a cafe.

Word Origin

Derived from Sino-Korean characters: 生 (saeng) and 水 (su).

Original meaning: 'Living water' or 'raw water', referring to water that has not been boiled.

Sino-Korean (Hanja)

Cultural Context

None. It is a neutral, everyday object.

In English, we often just say 'water' even if we mean bottled. In Korean, being specific with 'saengsu' is more common in commercial settings.

Jeju Samdasoo (Most famous brand) Baeksansoo (Nongshim brand) Pyeongchang Soo (Coca-Cola brand)

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

At a convenience store

생수 얼마예요?
생수 어디 있어요?
생수 한 병 주세요.
차가운 생수 있어요?

At a restaurant

생수 따로 팔아요?
생수 한 병만 주세요.
물은 셀프인가요?
이거 생수예요?

At home

생수 배달 시키자.
생수 다 마셨어.
생수병 버려줘.
생수 좀 냉장고에 넣어줘.

During exercise

생수 좀 마실까?
생수 챙겼어?
생수 한 모금만.
생수가 필요해.

At a hotel

생수 무료예요?
생수 더 주실 수 있나요?
냉장고에 생수 있어요.
생수 두 병 부탁합니다.

Conversation Starters

"생수 어떤 브랜드 마셔요? (Which brand of water do you drink?)"

"생수 배달해서 드세요, 아니면 사서 드세요? (Do you get water delivered or buy it?)"

"요즘 무라벨 생수가 많아진 것 같아요. (It seems like there's more label-less water lately.)"

"생수 한 병에 얼마인지 아세요? (Do you know how much a bottle of water is?)"

"운동할 때 생수 꼭 챙기세요? (Do you always take water when you exercise?)"

Journal Prompts

오늘 생수를 몇 병 마셨나요? (How many bottles of water did you drink today?)

내가 좋아하는 생수 브랜드와 그 이유를 써보세요. (Write about your favorite water brand and why.)

생수병 재활용을 어떻게 하고 있나요? (How are you recycling your water bottles?)

수돗물과 생수의 차이점에 대해 생각해보세요. (Think about the difference between tap and bottled water.)

생수 가격이 오르면 어떻게 할 것인가요? (What will you do if the price of water goes up?)

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

Yes, tap water (수돗물) in Korea is generally safe and meets high standards. However, due to old pipes in some buildings and a cultural preference for purity, most Koreans prefer drinking '생수' or using a '정수기' (purifier).

Jeju Samdasoo is widely considered the most popular and trusted brand of '생수' in Korea, known for its source in Jeju Island's volcanic rock layers.

In a convenience store, a 500ml bottle usually costs between 800 and 1,200 KRW. Buying in bulk (2L bottles) at a supermarket is much cheaper.

Korea has introduced '무라벨 생수' (label-less bottled water) to reduce plastic waste and make recycling easier, as labels must be removed before disposal.

Usually, no. Restaurants provide free water in pitchers (often purified water). If you want '생수' (a sealed bottle), you will typically have to pay for it.

Most '생수' sold in Korea is 'mineral water' (광천수), but the term is used broadly for any bottled drinking water.

You must empty the bottle, remove the plastic label, crush the bottle, and put it in the 'Clear PET' (투명 페트병) recycling bin.

Yes, '생수' has a shelf life, usually printed on the bottle. It's typically 6 to 12 months. The plastic can degrade over time, especially in sunlight.

'약수' is natural spring water often found at mountain temples or trails, believed to be healthy. '생수' is the commercial bottled version.

Yes, '생수' is one of the most common items in Korean vending machines, usually found at subway stations and parks.