At the A1 level, '마트' (mateu) is one of the first nouns you will learn. It is easy to remember because it sounds like the English word 'mart.' At this stage, you should focus on using it with simple verbs like '가다' (to go) and '오다' (to come). You will use the particle '-e' to say 'to the mart' (마트에). You might also learn basic food items like '우유' (milk) or '빵' (bread) to explain why you are going there. The goal is to be able to say, 'I am going to the mart to buy food.' It is a very practical word for beginners who need to navigate their daily environment in Korea.
At the A2 level, you begin to use '마트' in more complex sentence structures. You will learn the particle '-eseo' to describe actions happening inside the mart, such as '마트에서 장을 봐요' (I shop at the mart). You will also start using adjectives to describe the mart, such as '크다' (big) or '멀다' (far). At this level, you should be able to ask for the location of a mart using '어디에 있어요?' (Where is it?). You will also encounter compound words like '마트 카트' (shopping cart) and start to understand the difference between a mart and a 'pyeon-ui-jeom' (convenience store).
By the B1 level, you can discuss your shopping habits in more detail. You might talk about why you prefer one mart over another, perhaps due to '가격' (price) or '품질' (quality). You will use connecting words to say things like, 'The mart is far, but it is cheap' (마트가 멀지만 싸요). You will also understand cultural aspects, like '시식' (tasting samples) and '1+1' (buy one get one free) deals. At this stage, you can handle basic interactions with mart staff, such as asking where the '유제품' (dairy products) section is or inquiring about '환불' (refunds).
At the B2 level, you can engage in discussions about the role of marts in Korean society. You might talk about '대형마트' (large marts) and their impact on '전통시장' (traditional markets). You will use more advanced vocabulary like '유통' (distribution), '소비자' (consumer), and '할인 혜택' (discount benefits). You can describe the convenience of '온라인 마트' (online marts) and compare them to physical stores. Your sentences will become more nuanced, using grammar like '-기 때문에' (because) or '-을 뿐만 아니라' (not only... but also) to explain complex consumer behaviors.
At the C1 level, you can understand and discuss the economic and psychological strategies used by marts. You might analyze '마케팅 전략' (marketing strategies) like product placement or membership programs. You can read news articles about '마트 물가' (mart prices) and how they reflect national inflation trends. You are comfortable using professional terminology and can debate the '의무 휴업' (mandatory closing days) policy, considering the perspectives of both large corporations and small business owners. Your language use is fluid, and you can use '마트' in metaphorical or idiomatic contexts within socio-economic discussions.
At the C2 level, you possess a near-native understanding of the word '마트' and its place in the Korean lexicon. You can appreciate the historical evolution of the 'mart' from the first E-mart in 1993 to the current AI-driven 'unmanned marts' (무인 마트). You can discuss the word's etymology as a 'Konglish' term that has evolved its own distinct cultural meaning. You can write academic essays or give presentations on the 'platformization' of marts and the future of retail in Korea. Your use of the word is indistinguishable from a native speaker, reflecting deep cultural and linguistic competence.

마트 em 30 segundos

  • 마트 is a loanword from English meaning a large supermarket or hypermarket.
  • It is used for major grocery shopping trips, often called 'jang-eul boda'.
  • Major brands include E-Mart, Lotte Mart, and Homeplus.
  • It is distinct from convenience stores (pyeon-ui-jeom) and traditional markets (sijang).

The Korean word 마트 (Ma-teu) is a quintessential example of a loanword that has been seamlessly integrated into the Korean language. Derived from the English word 'mart,' it specifically refers to a supermarket or a large-scale retail store where consumers can purchase a wide variety of goods, ranging from fresh groceries and household items to electronics and clothing. In the modern Korean lifestyle, the 'mart' represents more than just a place to shop; it is a hub of daily activity, a destination for family outings, and a cornerstone of urban convenience.

Core Definition
A large retail establishment, typically part of a chain, selling food and household merchandise.
Cultural Nuance
Unlike a traditional market (sijang) or a tiny convenience store (pyeon-ui-jeom), a 'mart' implies a massive space like E-Mart, Homeplus, or Lotte Mart.

주말에 가족들과 함께 마트에 가서 장을 봤어요. (I went to the mart with my family over the weekend to do some grocery shopping.)

Historically, Koreans relied on traditional markets (shijang) for their daily needs. However, the rapid economic development of the late 20th century saw the rise of 'Big Marts' (daehyeong-mateu). These establishments revolutionized the shopping experience by offering climate-controlled environments, standardized pricing, and the convenience of 'one-stop shopping.' Today, when someone says they are going to the 'mart,' they are usually referring to these large-scale hypermarkets. Smaller neighborhood supermarkets are often called 'dong-ne mateu' (neighborhood mart) or simply 'super' (syu-peo).

마트는 24시간 영업을 안 해요. (This mart does not operate 24 hours.)

Economic Context
Marts are major employers and significant players in the supply chain, often sourcing products directly from farmers to keep costs low.

The terminology extends into digital spaces as well. With the rise of e-commerce, 'online marts' (on-lain mateu) have become incredibly popular. Services like SSG (Shinsegae) or Coupang's Rocket Fresh are essentially digital versions of the physical mart, delivering groceries to your doorstep by dawn. Despite this, the physical mart remains a social destination. It is common to see couples on a 'mart date' or elderly citizens walking the aisles for exercise and to see the latest products. The sensory experience of the mart—the smell of the bakery, the '1+1' (buy one get one free) shouting of sales staff, and the vibrant displays of seasonal fruit—is deeply ingrained in the contemporary Korean experience.

마트 시식 코너에서 만두를 먹어봤는데 정말 맛있었어요. (I tried a dumpling at the mart's tasting corner, and it was really delicious.)

Using the word 마트 in a sentence is relatively straightforward because it functions as a standard noun. However, understanding the particles and verbs that typically accompany it will help you sound more natural. The most common particle used with 'mart' is -e (to) or -eseo (at/in), depending on whether you are moving toward the mart or performing an action inside it.

Going to the Mart
마트에 가요 (I am going to the mart). Here, '-e' indicates the destination.
Shopping at the Mart
마트에서 장을 봐요 (I shop at the mart). Here, '-eseo' indicates the location of the activity.

집 근처에 큰 마트가 있어서 편해요. (It's convenient because there is a large mart near my house.)

When you want to specify which mart you are talking about, you simply place the name before the word. For example, '이마트' (E-mart) or '롯데마트' (Lotte Mart). In casual conversation, you might hear people shorten phrases. Instead of saying 'Let's go to the supermarket,' they might just say '마트 가자' (Let's go to the mart). It is also used in compound terms like '마트 카트' (mart cart) or '마트 전단지' (mart flyer).

오늘 마트 세일 기간이라 사람이 아주 많아요. (There are a lot of people today because it's the mart's sale period.)

Describing the Mart
Use adjectives like '크다' (big), '가깝다' (close), or '비싸다' (expensive). Example: 이 마트는 물건이 비싸요 (Items at this mart are expensive).

Another important grammatical point is the use of the verb '장을 보다' (to shop for groceries) in conjunction with '마트.' While you can say '마트에서 쇼핑해요,' '쇼핑' often implies clothes or luxury goods. For food and daily necessities, '장을 보다' is the preferred expression. Therefore, '마트에서 장을 봐요' is the most natural way to say you are doing your grocery shopping.

어제 마트에서 산 우유가 벌써 상했어요. (The milk I bought at the mart yesterday has already gone bad.)

In South Korea, you will encounter the word 마트 everywhere—from subway advertisements to casual dinner conversations. It is a fundamental part of the vocabulary for daily survival and social life. If you live in an apartment complex, you will likely hear neighbors asking each other, '마트 가세요?' (Are you going to the mart?) as they meet in the elevator, often referring to the shared routine of weekend shopping.

In Advertisements
Radio and TV commercials frequently blast catchy jingles for 'E-Mart' or 'Lotte Mart,' emphasizing discounts and fresh produce.
In Public Transport
Bus announcements often include mart names as landmarks: '이번 정류장은 홈플러스 앞입니다' (This stop is in front of Homeplus).

퇴근하는 길에 마트에 들러서 저녁 거리 좀 사갈게. (I'll stop by the mart on my way home from work and buy some things for dinner.)

In dramas and variety shows, the mart is a frequent filming location. It serves as a relatable setting for characters to interact, whether it's a couple bickering over which cereal to buy or a protagonist trying to live on a budget. The phrase '마트 시식' (mart food tasting) is also a common cultural trope, often portrayed as a fun way for students or people on a budget to get a 'free meal' by trying all the samples. You will also hear the word in the context of employment; '마트 알바' (mart part-time job) is a common way for young people to earn money.

요즘은 마트 배달 앱이 너무 잘 되어 있어서 직접 안 가도 돼요. (These days, mart delivery apps are so good that you don't have to go in person.)

Digital Context
On social media, people post '마트 하울' (mart hauls), showing off the snacks and items they bought, similar to grocery haul videos on YouTube.

Finally, the word appears in news reports regarding the economy. Terms like '마트 물가' (mart prices/cost of living) are used to discuss inflation and the price of essential goods like eggs, onions, and pork. Because the mart is where the average Korean feels the impact of the economy most directly, it is a frequent subject of journalistic analysis. In summary, '마트' is not just a noun; it's a vital sign of the rhythm of Korean society.

마트 휴무일을 미리 확인 안 해서 헛걸음했어요. (I didn't check the mart's closing day in advance, so I made a trip for nothing.)

While '마트' is an English loanword, English speakers often make mistakes by assuming it works exactly like the English word 'mart.' One of the most common errors is using it to describe small convenience stores. In English, a 'mart' can sometimes be small (like a 'K-Mart' gas station shop), but in Korean, 마트 almost always implies a larger supermarket. For the 24-hour small shops like 7-Eleven or CU, you must use '편의점' (pyeon-ui-jeom).

Confusion with 'Super'
Learners often use '슈퍼마켓' (supermarket), which is correct but sounds slightly dated. '마트' is the more contemporary, everyday term.
Particle Misuse
Saying '마트를 가요' (I go the mart) instead of '마트에 가요' (I go to the mart). While '를' is sometimes used in very fast casual speech, '에' is the grammatically correct destination particle.

Wrong: 편의점을 마트라고 불러요. (Calling a convenience store a mart.)

Right: 큰 슈퍼마켓만 마트라고 해요. (Only large supermarkets are called marts.)

Another mistake involves the verb 'shopping.' As mentioned before, English speakers tend to say '마트 쇼핑' (mart shopping). While understandable, it sounds like you are shopping for the building itself or luxury items. The natural Korean expression is '장을 보다' (jang-eul boda). If you say '마트에서 쇼핑해요,' a Korean might assume you are buying clothes or electronics at the mart, rather than the usual groceries.

백화점과 마트는 달라요. (Department stores and marts are different.)

Confusion with Department Stores
Do not call 'Shinsegae' or 'Hyundai Department Store' a mart. Those are '백화점' (baek-hwa-jeom). Marts are for everyday discount shopping; department stores are for high-end luxury.

Lastly, be careful with pluralization. In English, we say 'I'm going to the marts' if we plan to visit multiple. In Korean, adding the plural marker '-deul' (마트들) is rarely done unless you are making a general statement about the industry. Usually, context takes care of the number, and '마트에 가요' can mean one or several depending on the situation.

미국 마트는 한국 마트보다 훨씬 커요. (American marts are much bigger than Korean marts.)

To truly master the vocabulary surrounding shopping in Korea, it is important to distinguish 마트 from its related terms. Each word carries a specific nuance regarding size, price, and the type of goods sold. Using the wrong one might lead to confusion about your destination or your spending habits.

시장 (Si-jang) - Traditional Market
These are open-air or covered markets with individual vendors. They are often cheaper for produce and offer a more 'authentic' cultural feel but lack the standardized convenience of a mart.
편의점 (Pyeon-ui-jeom) - Convenience Store
Small, 24-hour shops like GS25. Use this for a quick snack or drink, not for a full week of grocery shopping.
백화점 (Baek-hwa-jeom) - Department Store
High-end stores like Lotte or Hyundai. They often have a 'food hall' in the basement that looks like a fancy mart, but the prices are significantly higher.

과일은 시장이 싸지만, 공산품은 마트가 더 다양해요. (Fruit is cheaper at the market, but manufactured goods are more diverse at the mart.)

When comparing '마트' and '슈퍼' (super), the distinction is largely about scale. A '슈퍼' is usually a medium-sized store in a residential area, often independently owned. A '마트' is usually a large corporate chain. However, in modern usage, '마트' is slowly becoming the default term for any store larger than a convenience store. You might also hear '대형마트' (dae-hyeong mateu), which specifically emphasizes the massive size of hypermarkets like Costco.

집 앞 슈퍼에서 계란을 샀어요. (I bought eggs at the super in front of my house.)

Comparison Table
- **마트**: Large, modern, corporate, fixed prices. - **시장**: Traditional, outdoor, bargaining possible, fresh produce. - **편의점**: Very small, 24/7, expensive per unit, convenient. - **백화점**: Luxury, expensive, high service, fashion-focused.

Understanding these distinctions helps you navigate Korean cities more effectively. If you need to buy a TV, you go to a '마트' or '전자제품 매장' (electronics store). If you need a single bottle of water at midnight, you go to a '편의점.' If you want to buy a large box of seasonal apples directly from a farmer, you go to the '시장.' By choosing the right word, you communicate your intentions more clearly to native speakers.

오늘 마트 대신 시장 구경 갈까요? (Shall we go look around the market instead of the mart today?)

How Formal Is It?

Curiosidade

The first modern 'mart' in Korea was E-Mart, which opened in Chang-dong, Seoul, in 1993. Before this, people mostly used '슈퍼마켓' or traditional markets.

Guia de pronúncia

UK /ˈmɑːt/
US /mɑːrt/
The stress in Korean '마트' is equal on both syllables, but the first syllable '마' is slightly more prominent.
Rima com
카트 (ka-teu - cart) 파트 (pa-teu - part) 하트 (ha-teu - heart) 아트 (a-teu - art) 차트 (cha-teu - chart) 다트 (da-teu - dart) 스마트 (seu-ma-teu - smart) 아파트 (a-pa-teu - apartment)
Erros comuns
  • Pronouncing it as one syllable like English 'mart' (Koreans won't understand).
  • Over-emphasizing the 'eu' sound at the end (keep it short).
  • Pronouncing 'm' too softly.
  • Confusing 'ma-teu' with 'mate' (English companion).
  • Using a long 'a' sound like 'mate'.

Nível de dificuldade

Leitura 1/5

Very easy as it is a loanword with simple phonetic characters.

Escrita 1/5

Only two characters (마, 트), very easy to write.

Expressão oral 1/5

Easy, but remember the 'eu' sound at the end.

Audição 1/5

Recognizable due to its English origin.

O que aprender depois

Pré-requisitos

가다 (to go) 사다 (to buy) 음식 (food) 물건 (thing/item) 돈 (money)

Aprenda a seguir

백화점 (department store) 시장 (market) 편의점 (convenience store) 가게 (shop) 쇼핑 (shopping)

Avançado

유통 (distribution) 소비자 (consumer) 물가 (prices/inflation) 포인트 적립 (point accumulation) 환불 (refund)

Gramática essencial

Destination Particle -에

마트에 가요. (I go to the mart.)

Location of Action Particle -에서

마트에서 사요. (I buy at the mart.)

Object Particle -을/를

마트를 좋아해요. (I like the mart.)

Subject Particle -이/가

마트가 커요. (The mart is big.)

Topic Particle -은/는

마트는 오늘 쉬어요. (As for the mart, it is off today.)

Exemplos por nível

1

저는 마트에 가요.

I go to the mart.

Uses the destination particle '-e'.

2

마트가 커요.

The mart is big.

Uses the adjective 'keuda' (to be big).

3

마트에서 우유를 사요.

I buy milk at the mart.

Uses '-eseo' for the location of an action.

4

엄마는 마트에 있어요.

Mom is at the mart.

Uses 'iss-eoyo' to indicate location.

5

마트에 빵이 많아요.

There is a lot of bread at the mart.

Uses 'manh-ayo' (to be many/much).

6

친구와 마트에 가요.

I go to the mart with a friend.

Uses '-wa' (with).

7

마트는 어디예요?

Where is the mart?

Uses the question word 'eodi' (where).

8

오늘 마트에 안 가요.

I am not going to the mart today.

Uses 'an' for negation.

1

마트에서 장을 봐요.

I'm doing grocery shopping at the mart.

Uses the idiom 'jang-eul boda'.

2

집 근처에 마트가 있어요.

There is a mart near the house.

Uses 'geun-cheo' (near).

3

마트 카트에 물건을 담아요.

I put items in the mart cart.

Uses 'dam-ayo' (to put in).

4

어제 마트에서 사과를 샀어요.

I bought apples at the mart yesterday.

Past tense 'sass-eoyo'.

5

마트가 아주 넓어요.

The mart is very spacious.

Adjective 'neolb-eoyo'.

6

마트에서 아이스크림을 사고 싶어요.

I want to buy ice cream at the mart.

'-go sip-eoyo' (want to).

7

마트에 사람이 너무 많아요.

There are too many people at the mart.

Uses 'neomu' (too much).

8

마트는 10시에 문을 열어요.

The mart opens at 10 o'clock.

Uses 'mun-eul yeolda' (to open the door).

1

마트에서 세일하는 물건을 골랐어요.

I chose items that were on sale at the mart.

Relative clause 'se-il-haneun'.

2

마트 시식 코너에서 만두를 먹었어요.

I ate dumplings at the mart's tasting corner.

Compound noun 'sisik koneo'.

3

마트가 쉬는 날이라서 시장에 갔어요.

Because it was the mart's day off, I went to the market.

'-iraseo' (because).

4

마트 포인트 카드를 만들고 싶어요.

I want to make a mart point card.

Focus on 'membership/points'.

5

마트에서 산 고기가 아주 신선해요.

The meat I bought at the mart is very fresh.

Past participle 'san'.

6

마트 배달 서비스를 이용해 보세요.

Try using the mart delivery service.

'-eo boseyo' (try doing).

7

주말에는 마트 주차장이 항상 붐벼요.

The mart parking lot is always crowded on weekends.

Verb 'bum-byeoyo' (to be crowded).

8

마트 전단지를 보고 쇼핑 리스트를 적었어요.

I looked at the mart flyer and wrote a shopping list.

'-go' to connect actions.

1

대형마트의 등장이 골목 상권에 큰 영향을 주었다.

The emergence of large marts had a big impact on local commercial districts.

Academic tone using 'yeong-hyang-eul juda'.

2

마트에서 유통 기한이 지난 제품을 발견했어요.

I discovered a product past its expiration date at the mart.

Term 'yutong gihan' (expiration date).

3

마트의 1+1 행사는 소비자들에게 인기가 많다.

The mart's 1+1 promotion is very popular among consumers.

Noun 'so-bi-ja' (consumer).

4

마트마다 가격을 비교해 보는 것이 경제적이다.

It is economical to compare prices at each mart.

'-neun geosi' nominalization.

5

요즘은 마트에서도 친환경 포장재를 많이 사용한다.

These days, marts also use a lot of eco-friendly packaging materials.

Term 'chin-hwan-gyeong' (eco-friendly).

6

마트 영업 시간 제한에 대한 찬반 논란이 있다.

There is a controversy for and against mart operating hour restrictions.

Term 'chan-ban nollan' (pros and cons controversy).

7

마트의 PB 상품은 가성비가 좋기로 유명하다.

Mart PB (Private Brand) products are famous for having good value for money.

Term 'ga-seong-bi' (cost-effectiveness).

8

마트 계산대 앞에 줄이 길게 늘어서 있다.

A long line is stretched out in front of the mart checkout counter.

Passive form 'neul-eo-seo itda'.

1

대형마트는 정교한 마케팅 기법으로 소비를 유도한다.

Large marts induce consumption through sophisticated marketing techniques.

Formal verb 'yudo-hada' (to induce).

2

마트의 의무 휴업일 제도는 재래시장 활성화를 목적으로 도입되었다.

The mart's mandatory closing day system was introduced for the purpose of revitalizing traditional markets.

Passive 'do-ip-doe-eotda' (was introduced).

3

온라인 마트의 성장은 오프라인 매장의 위기를 불러왔다.

The growth of online marts has brought about a crisis for offline stores.

Metaphorical 'wi-gi-reul bul-leo-oda'.

4

마트 물가 상승률이 서민 경제에 미치는 영향은 지대하다.

The impact of mart price inflation on the economy of ordinary people is enormous.

Advanced adjective 'jidae-hada' (enormous).

5

마트 내 무인 계산대의 보급으로 일자리가 줄어들고 있다.

With the spread of self-checkouts in marts, jobs are decreasing.

Noun 'bo-geup' (spread/dissemination).

6

마트는 단순한 쇼핑 공간을 넘어 복합 문화 공간으로 진화하고 있다.

Marts are evolving beyond simple shopping spaces into complex cultural spaces.

Grammar '-reul neomeo' (beyond).

7

마트의 멤버십 데이터 분석은 고객 맞춤형 서비스를 가능케 한다.

Analysis of mart membership data enables customized services for customers.

Causative structure '-ke hada'.

8

글로벌 마트 체인의 한국 시장 진출은 쉽지 않은 도전이었다.

The entry of global mart chains into the Korean market was a difficult challenge.

Compound noun 'gan-chul' (entry/advancement).

1

마트라는 공간은 현대 자본주의의 욕망이 집약된 장소라 할 수 있다.

The space called 'mart' can be said to be a place where the desires of modern capitalism are concentrated.

Philosophical '-ra hal su itda'.

2

유통 공룡이라 불리는 대형마트들의 패권 다툼이 치열하다.

The struggle for hegemony among large marts, called distribution giants, is fierce.

Metaphor 'yutong gong-ryong' (distribution dinosaur).

3

마트의 상생 경영은 지역 사회와의 조화로운 공존을 모색한다.

The win-win management of marts seeks harmonious coexistence with the local community.

Formal term 'sang-saeng gyeong-yeong'.

4

마트 내의 동선 설계는 철저히 소비 심리학에 기반하고 있다.

The design of movement paths within the mart is strictly based on consumer psychology.

Technical term 'dong-seon seol-gye'.

5

새벽 배송을 주도하는 온라인 마트들이 유통 지형을 근본적으로 바꾸어 놓았다.

Online marts leading dawn delivery have fundamentally changed the distribution landscape.

Advanced term 'yutong ji-hyeong'.

6

마트의 독과점 문제는 공정 거래의 관점에서 지속적으로 감시되어야 한다.

The issue of mart monopolies must be continuously monitored from the perspective of fair trade.

Legal term 'dok-gwa-jeom' (monopoly/oligopoly).

7

마트 노동자들의 처우 개선은 사회적 정의 실현의 일환이다.

Improving the treatment of mart workers is part of realizing social justice.

Formal term 'cheo-u gaeseon'.

8

마트의 탄생과 성장은 한국의 도시화 과정과 궤를 같이한다.

The birth and growth of marts go hand in hand with Korea's urbanization process.

Idiom 'gwe-reul gachi-hada'.

Colocações comuns

마트에 가다
마트에서 장을 보다
대형 마트
마트 세일
마트 카트
마트 전단지
마트 배달
마트 휴무일
동네 마트
마트 시식

Frases Comuns

마트 들렀다 갈게

— I'll stop by the mart on my way. Used when coming home.

퇴근하면서 마트 들렀다 갈게. 뭐 필요한 거 있어?

마트 문 닫았어?

— Is the mart closed? Used to check operating hours.

지금 가면 마트 문 닫았을까?

마트 장바구니

— Mart shopping basket or reusable bag.

마트 장바구니 챙기는 거 잊지 마.

마트 포인트

— Reward points earned at a mart.

마트 포인트가 꽤 많이 쌓였네요.

마트 계산대

— The checkout counter at the mart.

마트 계산대 줄이 너무 길어요.

마트 주차장

— The parking lot of the mart.

마트 주차장에 차가 꽉 찼어요.

마트 물가

— The price of groceries at the mart.

요즘 마트 물가가 너무 올랐어요.

마트 할인권

— A discount coupon for the mart.

마트 할인권이 있어서 싸게 샀어.

마트 알바

— Part-time job at a mart.

방학 동안 마트 알바를 하기로 했어.

마트 식품 코너

— The food/grocery section of the mart.

마트 식품 코너에서 저녁 거리를 샀어.

Frequentemente confundido com

마트 vs 시장 (Sijang)

Traditional market vs. modern corporate mart.

마트 vs 편의점 (Pyeon-ui-jeom)

Small 24-hour convenience store vs. large supermarket.

마트 vs 백화점 (Baek-hwa-jeom)

Luxury department store vs. discount grocery mart.

Expressões idiomáticas

"마트를 털다"

— To buy a huge amount of things at the mart (literally 'to rob the mart').

오늘 월급날이라 마트를 털고 왔어.

Slang
"마트 쇼핑이 취미다"

— To enjoy grocery shopping as a hobby.

저는 스트레스 풀 때 마트 쇼핑을 해요.

Casual
"마트 시식으로 배 채우다"

— To fill one's stomach just by eating free samples at the mart.

마트 시식으로 배 채우고 저녁은 안 먹었어.

Informal/Humorous
"마트 카트를 끌다"

— To lead the shopping trip (often implying the person paying or doing the work).

남편이 마트 카트를 끌고 뒤를 따라왔어.

Casual
"마트 귀신"

— Someone who knows every deal and location in the mart (literally 'mart ghost').

우리 엄마는 마트 귀신이라 세일 품목을 다 알아.

Slang
"1+1의 노예"

— Someone who can't resist buy-one-get-one-free deals at the mart.

나는 마트만 가면 1+1의 노예가 돼.

Slang
"마트 원정"

— Going to a far-away mart specifically for a certain item or deal.

코스트코까지 마트 원정을 다녀왔어.

Casual
"냉장고 파먹기"

— To eat everything in the fridge to avoid going to the mart.

이번 주는 마트 안 가고 냉장고 파먹기 중이야.

Casual
"마트가 집 앞이다"

— To live very close to a mart (a sign of convenience).

우리 집은 마트가 집 앞이라서 너무 편해.

Casual
"마트 전단지 킬러"

— Someone who obsessively checks flyers for discounts.

할머니는 마트 전단지 킬러야.

Humorous

Fácil de confundir

마트 vs 슈퍼 (Super)

Both refer to grocery stores.

Super is usually smaller and neighborhood-based; Mart is larger and chain-based.

슈퍼는 집 바로 앞에 있고, 마트는 차를 타고 가야 해요.

마트 vs 매장 (Maejang)

Both mean a place to buy things.

Maejang is a general term for any shop or a specific section; Mart is a specific type of large store.

마트 안에 있는 옷 매장에 갔어요.

마트 vs 가게 (Gage)

General word for store.

Gage is generic and usually implies a small scale; Mart is specific and large.

작은 과일 가게보다 마트가 더 싸요.

마트 vs 몰 (Mall)

Both are shopping areas.

Mall usually refers to a shopping complex with many different brands (like Starfield); Mart is one large grocery-focused store.

쇼핑몰 안에 마트가 입점해 있어요.

마트 vs 백화점 (Baekhwajeom)

Both sell many types of goods.

Department stores focus on luxury and fashion; Marts focus on groceries and daily necessities.

백화점은 비싸고 마트는 저렴해요.

Padrões de frases

A1

[Subject]은/는 마트에 가요.

저는 마트에 가요.

A1

마트에 [Noun]이/가 있어요.

마트에 사과가 있어요.

A2

마트에서 [Noun]을/를 사요.

마트에서 우유를 사요.

A2

마트가 [Adjective]아요/어요.

마트가 아주 넓어요.

B1

마트에 가서 [Verb]요.

마트에 가서 장을 봐요.

B1

마트가 [Verb]기 때문에 [Result].

마트가 가깝기 때문에 자주 가요.

B2

마트에서 [Noun]을/를 파는지 궁금해요.

마트에서 텐트를 파는지 궁금해요.

C1

마트의 [Noun]은/는 [Noun]에 기여한다.

마트의 성장은 지역 경제에 기여한다.

Família de palavras

Substantivos

대형마트 (large mart)
동네마트 (neighborhood mart)
온라인마트 (online mart)
무인마트 (unmanned mart)

Verbos

마트 가다 (to go to the mart)
마트에서 장보다 (to shop at the mart)

Relacionado

영수증 (receipt)
장바구니 (shopping basket)
계산대 (checkout counter)
유통기한 (expiration date)
할인 (discount)

Como usar

frequency

Extremely high in daily life.

Erros comuns
  • Using '마트' for a small convenience store. 편의점 (Pyeon-ui-jeom)

    In Korea, '마트' implies a large supermarket. A 24/7 small shop is always called a '편의점'.

  • Saying '마트를 가요'. 마트에 가요.

    You need the destination particle '-e' when going to a place.

  • Pronouncing it as 'Mart' (one syllable). 마-트 (Ma-teu).

    Korean phonology requires two syllables. Without the 'eu' sound, it may not be understood.

  • Using '마트 쇼핑' for grocery shopping. 마트에서 장을 봐요.

    '장을 보다' is the natural idiom for buying food and daily necessities.

  • Calling a department store a '마트'. 백화점 (Baek-hwa-jeom).

    Department stores (luxury) and marts (discount/grocery) are strictly distinguished in Korea.

Dicas

Tasting Corners

Don't be shy to try the '시식' (tasting) samples. It's a huge part of the Korean mart experience. Just say '감사합니다' after trying!

Late Night Discounts

If you go to the mart late at night (usually after 9 PM), fresh food like sushi, fried chicken, and bread is often discounted by 30-50%.

The Particle 'Eseo'

Always use '에서' when you are doing something inside the mart. '마트에서 만나요' means 'Let's meet inside the mart'.

Box Packing

Most marts have a '자율포장대' (self-packing area) where you can use free cardboard boxes and tape to pack your groceries. It's very eco-friendly and convenient!

Mart Dates

If you're looking for a casual date idea in Korea, '마트 데이트' is actually quite common. It's a fun way to walk around and see new products.

Check the 1+1

Always look for the '1+1' stickers. Sometimes the item is slightly more expensive than a single one, but it's usually a much better deal.

Loanword Logic

Since '마트' is a loanword, many other shopping terms are too. Try '카트' (cart), '쇼핑' (shopping), and '세일' (sale).

Use the App

Download the mart's app (like E-Mart or Lotte Mart) to get digital coupons and check the holiday schedule easily.

Cart Etiquette

In many marts, you need a 100-won coin to unlock a shopping cart. You get the coin back when you return the cart to the station.

Freshness

Korean marts take pride in their '신선식품' (fresh food). Look for the '당일 수확' (harvested today) label for the best produce.

Memorize

Mnemônico

Think of a 'Mart' but add a 'teu' at the end like a 'two'-story building. Ma-teu is a big two-story store.

Associação visual

Imagine a giant E-Mart yellow sign or a shopping cart (ka-teu) inside a mart (ma-teu). They rhyme!

Word Web

음식 (food) 과일 (fruit) 채소 (vegetables) 우유 (milk) 고기 (meat) 과자 (snacks) 음료수 (drinks) 계란 (eggs)

Desafio

Try to name three things you bought at the '마트' yesterday using the sentence: '어제 마트에서 ____, ____, ____을/를 샀어요.'

Origem da palavra

Borrowed from the English word 'mart', which is a shortened form of 'market'. It entered the Korean language in the late 20th century.

Significado original: A place of trade; a market.

English (Germanic) -> Korean (Loanword)

Contexto cultural

Be aware that traditional market owners may have strong feelings about the expansion of large marts into their neighborhoods.

In the US, 'mart' is usually a suffix (Walmart, K-Mart). In Korea, 'Mart' is used as a standalone noun for any large supermarket.

E-Mart (The leading chain in Korea) Lotte Mart (A major competitor) Homeplus (Originally a Samsung-Tesco venture)

Pratique na vida real

Contextos reais

Grocery Shopping

  • 장을 보다 (to shop for groceries)
  • 카트를 끌다 (to push a cart)
  • 시식하다 (to taste samples)
  • 계산하다 (to pay)

Asking Directions

  • 마트가 어디에 있어요? (Where is the mart?)
  • 가장 가까운 마트가 어디예요? (Where is the closest mart?)
  • 마트까지 얼마나 걸려요? (How long does it take to the mart?)
  • 마트 옆에 있어요. (It's next to the mart.)

Checking Hours

  • 몇 시에 문 닫아요? (What time do you close?)
  • 오늘 마트 쉬는 날이에요? (Is the mart off today?)
  • 24시간 영업해요? (Do you open 24 hours?)
  • 휴무일이 언제예요? (When is the closing day?)

Inside the Mart

  • 화장실이 어디예요? (Where is the bathroom?)
  • 봉투 필요하세요? (Do you need a bag?)
  • 영수증 드릴까요? (Shall I give you the receipt?)
  • 이거 세일해요? (Is this on sale?)

Delivery

  • 배달해 주세요. (Please deliver it.)
  • 배달비가 얼마예요? (How much is the delivery fee?)
  • 언제 배달돼요? (When will it be delivered?)
  • 앱으로 주문했어요. (I ordered via the app.)

Iniciadores de conversa

"오늘 마트에 같이 갈래요? (Would you like to go to the mart together today?)"

"집 근처에 어떤 마트가 있어요? (What kind of mart is near your house?)"

"마트에서 꼭 사야 하는 게 뭐예요? (What is something you must buy at the mart?)"

"마트 시식 코너 좋아하세요? (Do you like the mart's tasting corners?)"

"마트가 시장보다 더 편하다고 생각하세요? (Do you think the mart is more convenient than the market?)"

Temas para diário

오늘 마트에서 무엇을 샀는지 적어보세요. (Write about what you bought at the mart today.)

마트에 갔을 때 가장 기분 좋았던 경험은 무엇인가요? (What was your best experience when you went to the mart?)

한국 마트와 당신의 나라 마트의 차이점을 설명해 보세요. (Explain the difference between Korean marts and marts in your country.)

마트에서 세일하는 물건을 보면 어떤 기분이 드나요? (How do you feel when you see items on sale at the mart?)

마트가 없는 세상은 어떨지 상상해서 써보세요. (Imagine and write about what a world without marts would be like.)

Perguntas frequentes

10 perguntas

Yes, '마트' is the most common Korean word for a supermarket. It is derived from the English word 'mart' and is used for large stores like E-Mart or Lotte Mart where people buy groceries and household items.

Technically, they both mean supermarket. However, '마트' usually refers to large corporate chains (hypermarkets), while '슈퍼' often refers to smaller, independent neighborhood grocery stores.

Most large marts (대형마트) in Korea are required by law to close on the second and fourth Sunday of every month. This is to help small local businesses. It's always good to check the specific mart's schedule online.

It is a very common promotion in Korean marts meaning 'Buy One Get One Free'. You will see '1+1' or '2+1' signs on many products, especially snacks and household items.

Yes, it is highly recommended. Korean marts charge for plastic bags or paper bags to reduce waste. Many people bring their own '장바구니' (shopping basket/reusable bag) or use empty cardboard boxes provided for free at the packing station.

Yes, most large marts have a customer service desk (고객만족센터) where you can get refunds or exchanges if you have your receipt and the item is in good condition.

PB stands for 'Private Brand'. These are products made specifically by the mart (like E-Mart's 'No Brand' or 'Peacock'). They are usually cheaper than famous brand-name products but offer good quality.

Yes, almost every large mart has a food court (푸드코트) where you can eat relatively cheap and delicious meals. They are very popular for families shopping on the weekend.

Yes, Costco is referred to as a '창고형 마트' (warehouse-style mart). It follows the same holiday rules as other large Korean marts.

You should say '마트에 가요' (Ma-teu-e ga-yo) or '마트에 다녀올게요' (Ma-teu-e da-nyeo-ol-ge-yo - I'll be back from the mart).

Teste-se 200 perguntas

writing

Write a sentence: 'I go to the mart.'

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

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Write a sentence: 'The mart is big.'

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

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Write a sentence: 'I buy apples at the mart.'

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

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Write a sentence: 'There are many people at the mart.'

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

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Translate: 'I am doing grocery shopping at the mart.'

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

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Write a sentence: 'The mart is closed today.'

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

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Translate: 'Is there a mart near here?'

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

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Write a sentence about your favorite thing to buy at the mart.

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

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Translate: 'I need a mart cart.'

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

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Write a sentence using '1+1'.

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

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Translate: 'I got a refund at the mart.'

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

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Write a sentence: 'The mart is open until 11 PM.'

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

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Translate: 'I stopped by the mart on my way home.'

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

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Write a sentence: 'The mart delivery is fast.'

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

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Translate: 'Please give me the mart receipt.'

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

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Write a sentence: 'Mart prices have increased.'

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

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Translate: 'I tried a sample at the mart.'

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

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Write a sentence: 'The mart parking lot is full.'

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

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Translate: 'Which mart do you go to?'

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

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Write a short paragraph about your last trip to the mart (3 sentences).

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

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Say: 'I am going to the mart.'

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Ask: 'Where is the mart?'

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Say: 'I bought this at the mart.'

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Ask: 'What time does the mart close?'

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Say: 'I need a shopping cart.'

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Ask: 'Is there a mart near here?'

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Say: 'I'm going to the mart with my friend.'

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Say: 'The mart is closed today.'

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Ask: 'Do you have a mart point card?'

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Say: 'I want to get a refund.'

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Describe what you usually buy at the mart.

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Say: 'The line at the checkout is too long.'

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Ask: 'Can you deliver this?'

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Say: 'I'll stop by the mart on my way home.'

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Say: 'This is a 1+1 deal.'

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Explain why you prefer marts over traditional markets.

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Say: 'Mart prices have gone up a lot.'

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Ask: 'When is the next mart holiday?'

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Say: 'I use the mart delivery app often.'

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Tell a story about a funny thing that happened at the mart.

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
listening

Listen and write the word: [Audio: Mateu]

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
listening

Listen and choose the correct sentence: [Audio: Mateu-e gayo]

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
listening

Listen and identify the place: [Audio: E-mart-eseo mannayo]

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
listening

Listen and answer: [Audio: Oneul mateu swieoyo?] Is the mart open?

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
listening

Listen and write the price: [Audio: Sagwa-ga mateu-eseo cheon-won-ieyo]

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
listening

Listen and write the location: [Audio: Mateu-neun baekhwajeom yeope isseoyo]

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
listening

Listen and identify the action: [Audio: Mateu-eseo jang-eul bwayo]

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
listening

Listen and write the item: [Audio: Mateu-eseo u-yu-reul sass-eoyo]

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
listening

Listen and answer: [Audio: Mateu kadeu isseuseyo?] What is the speaker asking for?

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
listening

Listen and write the time: [Audio: Mateu-neun yeol-si-e mun-eul yeol-eoyo]

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
listening

Listen and identify the problem: [Audio: Mateu juchajang-i kkwak chass-eoyo]

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
listening

Listen and answer: [Audio: Oneul-eun mateu hyumuil-ieyo] Should I go to the mart today?

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
listening

Listen and write the phrase: [Audio: Il-plus-il]

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
listening

Listen and identify the speaker's job: [Audio: Jeo-neun mateu-eseo alba-reul haeyo]

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
listening

Listen and identify the mood: [Audio: Mateu mulga-ga neomu ollaseo himdeul-eoyo]

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:

/ 200 correct

Perfect score!

Foi útil?
Nenhum comentário ainda. Seja o primeiro a compartilhar suas ideias!