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A2 noun #5,000 mais comum 11 min de leitura

신호등

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Pratique Exemplos Notas e dicas 신호등 em 30 segundos

Explicação 신호등 in your Level:

At the A1 level, you should learn '신호등' (sin-ho-deung) as a basic noun meaning 'traffic light.' Focus on identifying the object and its primary colors: red (빨간색) and green (초록색/파란색). You will use this word in very simple sentences like 'The traffic light is red' or 'I see a traffic light.' It's important to know that in Korea, people often say 'blue light' (파란불) instead of 'green light.' You might use this word when walking with a friend or learning basic directions. Practice saying '신호등이에요' (It is a traffic light) and '신호등을 봐요' (Look at the traffic light). At this stage, don't worry about complex grammar; just associate the word with the physical object you see on the street.

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At the A2 level, you can use '신호등' to give and follow basic directions. You should be able to say things like 'Turn right at the traffic light' (신호등에서 우회전하세요) or 'Wait at the traffic light' (신호등 앞에서 기다리세요). You will also start using verbs like '바뀌다' (to change) to describe the light changing colors. You should understand the difference between '신호등' (the physical light) and '횡단보도' (the crosswalk). This is the level where you start to encounter the word in daily survival situations, such as taking a taxi or asking for the way to a nearby station. You should also be comfortable using basic particles like '에서' (at) and '을/를' (object marker) with this word.

At the B1 level, you can describe more detailed situations involving '신호등.' You might talk about traffic conditions, such as 'The traffic is heavy because the traffic light is broken' (신호등이 고장 나서 차가 막혀요). You should be able to explain safety rules to others, using structures like '-야 하다' (must). For example, 'You must wait until the traffic light turns green.' You will also begin to notice '신호등' in more varied contexts, such as in simple news clips or weather reports that mention traffic. Your vocabulary should expand to include related terms like '교차로' (intersection) and '신호 위반' (traffic signal violation). You can start to use the word in the past tense to describe your commute.

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At the B2 level, you can use '신호등' in more abstract or technical discussions. You might discuss urban planning, the implementation of 'smart' traffic lights, or the social behavior of pedestrians in Korea compared to your home country. You should be able to use the word in complex sentences with various connective endings like '-는데' or '-어서/아서.' For example, 'Even though the traffic light was green, the car didn't move' (신호등이 초록불인데도 차가 안 움직였어요). You will also understand metaphorical uses in literature or songs, where a traffic light represents a decision point in life. You can participate in debates about traffic laws and the effectiveness of certain '신호등' placements.

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At the C1 level, you have a nuanced understanding of '신호등' and its role in Korean society. You can discuss the legal implications of traffic accidents involving '신호등' signals, using advanced terminology like '과실 비율' (negligence ratio). You can read and understand technical reports about traffic management systems and the integration of AI into '신호등' control. Your speech will include idiomatic expressions and you can use the word in sophisticated metaphors during presentations or high-level conversations. You understand the historical evolution of traffic signals in Korea and can comment on how they reflect broader societal changes in technology and public order.

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At the C2 level, '신호등' is a word you use with the fluency of a native speaker. You can engage in academic or professional discussions about the engineering of traffic light systems, the psychology of driver response to signal timing, or the philosophical implications of automated traffic control. You can appreciate and analyze complex literary works where '신호등' is used as a central motif. You are capable of drafting formal documents, such as city council proposals for new traffic light installations, with perfect register and tone. You understand the most obscure technical jargon related to '신호등' and can effortlessly switch between formal, informal, and technical registers depending on the context.

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Pratique Exemplos Notas e dicas

신호등 em 30 segundos

A Sino-Korean noun meaning 'traffic light,' essential for urban navigation and daily safety in Korea.
Commonly paired with verbs like '바뀌다' (to change) and '지키다' (to obey/follow).
Uses specific color terms: '빨간불' (red), '노란불' (yellow), and '파란불/초록불' (green).
Central to giving directions and reporting traffic conditions in both formal and informal Korean.

The Korean word 신호등 (sin-ho-deung) is a fundamental noun that every learner must master early on, as it is essential for navigating any urban environment in South Korea. Etymologically, it is a Sino-Korean compound consisting of 신호 (sin-ho) meaning 'signal' or 'sign' and 등 (deung) meaning 'lamp' or 'light'. Together, they literally translate to 'signal lamp.' While the English equivalent 'traffic light' is straightforward, the cultural and linguistic application in Korea has unique nuances that reflect the fast-paced yet orderly nature of Korean city life.

Urban Navigation: In Korea, directions are frequently given using landmarks, and '신호등' is one of the most common markers. You might hear someone say, 'Go straight until the next traffic light and turn left.'
Pedestrian Safety: Korean pedestrians are generally very law-abiding regarding crosswalk signals. The '신호등' for pedestrians often features a countdown timer, showing exactly how many seconds remain before the light changes to red.

길을 건너기 전에 신호등을 확인하세요. (Check the traffic light before crossing the street.)

One of the most interesting linguistic quirks involves the colors of the light. While English speakers see red, yellow, and green, Koreans traditionally refer to the green light as 파란불 (pa-ran-bul), which literally translates to 'blue light.' This stems from the historical Korean use of the word 'blue' to encompass various shades of green and blue. However, the physical color of the light is the same standard green used globally. Understanding this distinction is crucial to avoid confusion when someone tells you to 'go when the blue light comes on.'

신호등이 파란불로 바뀌었어요. (The traffic light turned green [literally: blue].)

The word is also used metaphorically in modern Korean society. It can represent a 'go-ahead' or a 'stop' in personal relationships or business ventures. For instance, if a project is going well, someone might say it has a 'green light' (초록불), though this is often a direct translation of the English idiom. In pop culture, the song 'Traffic Light' (신호등) by Lee Mujin became a massive hit, using the changing colors of the light as a metaphor for the confusion and indecision of early adulthood.

Social Etiquette: In Korea, jaywalking is relatively rare in major cities like Seoul. People will wait patiently at the '신호등' even if there are no cars coming, reflecting a collective commitment to public order.

아이들이 신호등 앞에서 기다리고 있습니다. (The children are waiting in front of the traffic light.)

Furthermore, modern Korean traffic lights are increasingly 'smart.' You will see '신호등' equipped with sensors that adjust timing based on traffic volume, or even ground-level LED strips at crosswalks for 'smartphone zombies' (people looking down at their phones). These technological advancements ensure that the word '신호등' remains at the center of discussions regarding urban safety and technology in Korea.

요즘은 바닥에도 신호등이 설치되어 있어요. (These days, traffic lights are even installed on the ground.)

Daily Routine: For commuters, the '신호등' is a source of daily frustration or relief. Timing the lights perfectly to get to work on time is a minor victory in the busy life of a 'salaryman' in Seoul.

운이 좋게 모든 신호등이 초록불이었어요. (Luckily, all the traffic lights were green.)

Using 신호등 in a sentence requires an understanding of the verbs that typically accompany it. Because a traffic light is an object that changes state, you will often see it paired with verbs like '바뀌다' (to change), '기다리다' (to wait), and '지나다' (to pass). Mastering these combinations will make your Korean sound much more natural and fluid.

The Verb '바뀌다' (To Change): This is perhaps the most common verb used with '신호등'. You use it to describe the light changing from one color to another. Note that '바뀌다' is an intransitive verb, so the light is the subject changing on its own.

신호등이 빨간불로 바뀌었습니다. (The traffic light changed to red.)

When giving directions, '신호등' often acts as a spatial reference point. In this context, you use particles like '에서' (at/from) to indicate the location of an action. For example, 'Turn right at the traffic light' becomes '신호등에서 우회전하세요.' This structure is vital for survival Korean if you are taking a taxi or asking for help on the street.

다음 신호등에서 내려 주세요. (Please drop me off at the next traffic light.)

The Verb '건너다' (To Cross): While you technically cross the '횡단보도' (crosswalk), people often say they cross 'when the traffic light is [color].' This links the state of the light directly to the action of crossing.

신호등이 초록불일 때 건너야 해요. (You must cross when the traffic light is green.)

In more complex sentences, '신호등' can be the object of verbs like '고치다' (to repair) or '설치하다' (to install), which is common in news or administrative contexts. For instance, 'The city installed a new traffic light at the dangerous intersection.' This uses the object marker '을/를'.

시청에서 사거리에 새로운 신호등을 설치했습니다. (The city hall installed a new traffic light at the intersection.)

The Verb '지키다' (To Obey/Keep): Safety first! '신호를 지키다' means to follow the traffic signals. This is a common phrase in education and public safety campaigns.

운전자들은 반드시 신호등의 신호를 지켜야 합니다. (Drivers must obey the traffic light signals.)

Lastly, you might encounter '신호등' in the context of it being broken or malfunctioning. The phrase '신호등이 고장 났다' (The traffic light is broken) is essential for reporting issues or explaining why traffic is backed up.

신호등이 고장 나서 차가 많이 막혀요. (The traffic light is broken, so there is a lot of traffic.)

You will encounter the word 신호등 in a variety of real-world scenarios in Korea, ranging from daily commutes to popular media. Understanding these contexts will help you recognize the word even when spoken quickly or in noisy environments.

In a Taxi: Taxi drivers are the most frequent users of this word. They use it to signal where they will stop or to explain why they are waiting. If you say, '저기 신호등 앞에서 세워주세요' (Please stop in front of that traffic light), they will understand exactly where to pull over.

기사님, 이번 신호등에서 우회전해 주세요. (Driver, please turn right at this traffic light.)

On the street, especially in busy areas like Gangnam or Hongdae, you will hear parents or teachers guiding children. They emphasize '신호등' to instill safety habits. '신호등이 무슨 색깔이야?' (What color is the traffic light?) is a common question parents ask their toddlers to teach them the rules of the road.

얘들아, 신호등이 초록색이 될 때까지 기다리자. (Kids, let's wait until the traffic light turns green.)

GPS and Navigation Apps: If you use KakaoMap or Naver Maps for driving or walking, the voice guidance will frequently mention '신호등'. It might say, '300 meters ahead, at the traffic light, turn left.'

잠시 후 신호등에서 직진입니다. (In a short while, go straight at the traffic light.)

In the world of K-pop and K-dramas, '신호등' is often used as a romantic or emotional metaphor. A red light might symbolize a relationship that has hit a wall, while a green light means it's time to confess feelings. This lyrical usage adds a layer of depth to an otherwise mundane object.

우리 사이의 신호등은 언제나 초록불이었으면 좋겠어. (I wish the traffic light between us was always green.)

News and Traffic Reports: Radio traffic reports (교통 방송) are another place where you'll hear this word constantly. Reporters describe congestion caused by '신호 대기' (waiting for the signal) or '신호등 고장' (traffic light failure).

강남대로 신호등 고장으로 정체가 심합니다. (There is heavy congestion due to a traffic light failure on Gangnam-daero.)

While 신호등 is a relatively simple noun, English speakers often make specific errors related to color terminology, particle usage, and confusing it with related terms. Avoiding these pitfalls will help you sound more like a native speaker.

The 'Blue' vs. 'Green' Confusion: As mentioned before, the most common mistake is using '초록색' (green) exclusively for the light. While '초록불' is perfectly correct and understood, '파란불' (blue light) is actually more common in idiomatic speech. Learners often think '파란불' literally means the light is blue and get confused when they see it is green.

Mistake: 신호등이 녹색이에요. (Technically okay but '초록불' or '파란불' is more natural.)

Another mistake involves the verb 'to cross.' Beginners often say '신호등을 건너다' (to cross the traffic light). However, you cross the road or the crosswalk (횡단보도), not the light itself. The light is the reason or the signal for crossing, not the object being crossed.

Correct: 신호등이 초록불일 때 횡단보도를 건너세요. (Cross the crosswalk when the traffic light is green.)

Confusing '신호등' with '신호': '신호등' is the physical lamp post. '신호' is the abstract signal. If you say '신호등을 어겼어요,' it sounds like you physically broke the lamp. To say you ran a red light, you should say '신호를 위반했어요' (violated the signal) or '신호를 무시했어요' (ignored the signal).

Incorrect: 신호등을 무시하고 달렸어요. (Ran ignoring the physical lamp.)
Correct: 신호를 무시하고 달렸어요. (Ran ignoring the signal.)

Learners also struggle with the passive vs. active voice when the light changes. '신호등이 바꿨어요' is incorrect because '바꾸다' is active (to change something). Since the light changes on its own (from our perspective), we must use the passive/intransitive form '바뀌다'.

Mistake: 신호등이 빨간색을 바꿨어요.
Correct: 신호등이 빨간불로 바뀌었어요. (The traffic light changed to red.)

Misusing '등': Sometimes students forget that '등' is part of the word and just say '신호.' While '신호' is often used as a shorthand, '신호등' is necessary when referring specifically to the physical device. Don't confuse it with '등' (back) or '등' (etcetera), which are homonyms.

To expand your vocabulary beyond 신호등, it is helpful to learn related terms used in traffic and urban navigation. These words often appear together in the same context but have distinct meanings.

신호 (Sin-ho) vs. 신호등 (Sin-ho-deung): '신호' is the general term for 'signal.' It can refer to a traffic signal, a phone signal, or a hand signal. '신호등' is the specific physical object (the light) that produces the traffic signal.
횡단보도 (Hoeng-dan-bo-do): This means 'crosswalk.' You will almost always find a '신호등' next to a '횡단보도'. While the light tells you when to go, the crosswalk tells you where to go.

신호등이 없는 횡단보도에서는 조심해야 해요. (You must be careful at crosswalks without traffic lights.)

Another related term is 표지판 (pyo-ji-pan), which means 'sign' or 'signboard.' While a '신호등' uses lights to communicate, a '표지판' uses static images or text to provide information, like speed limits or 'no parking' zones.

신호등 옆에 '좌회전 금지' 표지판이 있어요. (There is a 'No Left Turn' sign next to the traffic light.)

사거리 (Sa-geo-ri) / 교차로 (Gyo-cha-ro): '사거리' means 'four-way intersection,' and '교차로' is a general 'intersection.' These are the primary locations where you will find '신호등'.

큰 교차로에는 신호등이 여러 개 있습니다. (There are several traffic lights at a large intersection.)

When discussing the colors, you can use synonyms for 'green.' While '파란불' is common, '초록불' (cho-rok-bul) is more precise, and '녹색 신호' (nok-saek sin-ho) is used in formal broadcasts. For 'red,' '빨간불' is standard, but '정지 신호' (stop signal) is the formal alternative.

정지 신호를 무시하면 과태료를 내야 합니다. (If you ignore the stop signal, you must pay a fine.)

How Formal Is It?

Curiosidade

The first traffic light in Korea was installed in 1940 at the Hwashin Department Store intersection in Seoul. It was a manual signal operated by a police officer.

Guia de pronúncia

UK /ɕi.no.dɯŋ/

US /ʃi.noʊ.dʌŋ/

The stress is equal on all syllables, typical of Korean's syllable-timed nature.

Rima com

고등 (go-deung) 노동 (no-dong) 우동 (u-dong) 운동 (un-dong) 행동 (haeng-dong) 감동 (gam-dong) 자동 (ja-dong) 전등 (jeon-deung)

Erros comuns

Pronouncing 'eu' (으) like 'oo' (u). It should be a flat sound.
Aspirating the 'h' (ㅎ) too strongly. In 'sin-ho', it's very soft.
Mispronouncing 'sh' as a sharp English 'sh'. In Korean, it's closer to 's' followed by 'i'.
Stress on the first syllable like English 'TRAFFIC light'.
Not connecting the 'n' (ㄴ) and 'h' (ㅎ) smoothly.

Nível de dificuldade

Leitura 2/5

Easy to recognize as it appears frequently on signs and maps.

Escrita 3/5

Requires remembering three distinct Hanja-based syllables.

Expressão oral 2/5

Pronunciation is straightforward with no difficult consonant clusters.

Audição 2/5

Very clear and distinct sound in daily life.

O que aprender depois

Pré-requisitos

길 (road) 차 (car) 보다 (to see) 있다 (to have/be) 빨간색 (red)

Aprenda a seguir

횡단보도 (crosswalk) 교차로 (intersection) 우회전 (right turn) 좌회전 (left turn) 직진 (go straight)

Avançado

교통 법규 (traffic laws) 자율 주행 (autonomous driving) 도시 인프라 (urban infrastructure)

Gramática essencial

-(으)ㄹ 때 (When)

신호등이 초록불일 때 건너요.

-아/어지다 (Become)

신호등이 빨갛게 되었어요.

-기 시작하다 (Start doing)

신호등이 깜빡이기 시작했어요.

-기 전에 (Before doing)

신호등이 바뀌기 전에 빨리 가요.

-(으)면 안 되다 (Must not)

빨간불에 신호등을 무시하면 안 돼요.

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Exemplos por nível

신호등이 있어요.

There is a traffic light.

이/가 emphasizes the subject.

신호등이 빨간색이에요.

The traffic light is red.

Standard adjective ending.

신호등을 봐요.

Look at the traffic light.

을/를 indicates the object.

저기 신호등이 있어요.

There is a traffic light over there.

저기 means 'over there'.

신호등이 예뻐요.

The traffic light is pretty.

Basic descriptive sentence.

신호등은 어디에 있어요?

Where is the traffic light?

어디 means 'where'.

이것은 신호등입니다.

This is a traffic light.

Formal -입니다 ending.

신호등이 세 개 있어요.

There are three traffic lights.

개 is the counter for objects.

신호등에서 오른쪽으로 가세요.

Go right at the traffic light.

에서 indicates the location of action.

신호등이 초록불로 바뀌었어요.

The traffic light changed to green.

로 indicates the result of change.

신호등 앞에서 기다려요.

Wait in front of the traffic light.

앞 means 'front'.

신호등이 고장 났어요.

The traffic light is broken.

고장 나다 means 'to break down'.

다음 신호등에서 내려 주세요.

Please drop me off at the next traffic light.

다음 means 'next'.

신호등을 잘 보세요.

Watch the traffic light carefully.

잘 means 'well/carefully'.

신호등이 너무 멀어요.

The traffic light is too far.

너무 means 'too'.

신호등이 파란불일 때 건너요.

Cross when the traffic light is green (blue).

-(으)ㄹ 때 means 'when'.

신호등이 바뀌기를 기다리고 있어요.

I am waiting for the traffic light to change.

-기(를) 기다리다: waiting for an action.

신호등이 없는 곳에서는 조심해야 해요.

You must be careful in places where there are no traffic lights.

-는 곳: a place where (action happens).

갑자기 신호등이 빨간불로 변했어요.

Suddenly, the traffic light changed to red.

갑자기 means 'suddenly'.

신호등의 신호를 지키는 것은 중요합니다.

Obeying the traffic light signals is important.

-는 것은: nominalizing a phrase.

어제는 신호등 고장 때문에 지각했어요.

Yesterday, I was late because of a traffic light malfunction.

때문에 indicates cause/reason.

신호등이 보이면 바로 알려 주세요.

Please let me know as soon as you see the traffic light.

-(으)면 means 'if/when'.

이 신호등은 시간이 너무 짧아요.

This traffic light's timing is too short.

시간이 짧다: time is short.

신호등 색깔이 참 다양해요.

The traffic light colors are quite diverse.

참 means 'very/quite'.

신호등이 바뀌자마자 차들이 출발했어요.

As soon as the traffic light changed, the cars started moving.

-자마자 means 'as soon as'.

그 교차로에는 신호등이 새로 설치되었습니다.

A traffic light was newly installed at that intersection.

설치되다 is the passive 'to be installed'.

신호등을 무시하고 운전하는 것은 위험합니다.

Driving while ignoring the traffic light is dangerous.

-고 means 'and' or 'while doing'.

밤에는 신호등이 황색 점멸등으로 바뀝니다.

At night, the traffic lights change to flashing yellow lights.

점멸등 means 'flashing light'.

신호등이 있어서 보행자들이 안전하게 건널 수 있어요.

Because there are traffic lights, pedestrians can cross safely.

-(으)ㄹ 수 있다 means 'can'.

신호등의 위치가 운전자의 시야를 방해해요.

The position of the traffic light obstructs the driver's view.

시야를 방해하다: to obstruct view.

스마트 신호등 덕분에 교통 체증이 줄어들었어요.

Thanks to smart traffic lights, traffic congestion has decreased.

덕분에 means 'thanks to'.

신호등이 바뀌는 주기를 조정할 필요가 있습니다.

There is a need to adjust the traffic light cycle.

-(으)ㄹ 필요가 있다: there is a need to.

신호등은 도시의 흐름을 통제하는 중요한 장치입니다.

The traffic light is an important device that controls the flow of the city.

통제하다: to control/regulate.

신호등 고장으로 인한 혼란이 도심 전체로 퍼졌습니다.

The confusion caused by the traffic light failure spread throughout the city center.

-(으)로 인한: caused by.

그는 인생의 신호등이 빨간불이라고 느꼈습니다.

He felt that the traffic light of his life was red.

Metaphorical usage.

신호등 체계의 효율성을 높이기 위해 AI가 도입되었습니다.

AI was introduced to increase the efficiency of the traffic light system.

-(으)려기 위해: in order to.

보행자 신호등의 잔여 시간 표시기는 매우 편리합니다.

The remaining time indicator on pedestrian traffic lights is very convenient.

잔여 시간: remaining time.

신호등이 없는 교차로에서의 우선권 규정을 숙지해야 합니다.

You must be familiar with the priority rules at intersections without traffic lights.

숙지하다: to be well-versed in.

정부는 노후화된 신호등을 전면 교체하기로 결정했습니다.

The government decided to completely replace aging traffic lights.

노후화되다: to become obsolete/aged.

신호등의 불빛이 빗물에 반사되어 몽환적인 분위기를 자아냅니다.

The lights of the traffic signal reflected in the rain, creating a dreamlike atmosphere.

자아내다: to evoke/create.

신호등의 색채 배열은 국제적 표준을 따르며 인지 심리학적 근거를 바탕으로 합니다.

The color arrangement of traffic lights follows international standards and is based on cognitive psychological evidence.

바탕으로 하다: to be based on.

자율주행 자동차는 V2I 기술을 통해 신호등과 직접 통신합니다.

Autonomous vehicles communicate directly with traffic lights through V2I technology.

통신하다: to communicate (data).

신호등의 오작동은 단순한 불편을 넘어 대형 참사로 이어질 수 있습니다.

Malfunctions of traffic lights can go beyond simple inconvenience and lead to major disasters.

-(을) 넘어: beyond.

도시 공학적 관점에서 신호등의 배치는 보행 밀도와 교통량을 고려해야 합니다.

From an urban engineering perspective, the placement of traffic lights must consider pedestrian density and traffic volume.

관점에서: from the perspective of.

신호등은 현대 문명에서 질서와 통제를 상징하는 기호학적 대상입니다.

Traffic lights are semiotic objects symbolizing order and control in modern civilization.

기호학적: semiotic.

법원은 신호등의 설치 미비가 사고의 주요 원인임을 인정했습니다.

The court acknowledged that the lack of traffic light installation was the primary cause of the accident.

미비: inadequacy/deficiency.

신호등의 점멸 주기를 미세하게 조정함으로써 연비 효율을 극대화할 수 있습니다.

By finely adjusting the flashing cycles of traffic lights, fuel efficiency can be maximized.

-(으)ㅁ으로써: by doing.

역동적인 도시의 야경 속에서 신호등은 마치 살아있는 유기체처럼 박동합니다.

In the dynamic night view of the city, the traffic lights throb like living organisms.

유기체: organism.

Colocações comuns

신호등이 바뀌다

신호등을 지키다

신호등이 고장 나다

신호등을 설치하다

신호등을 무시하다

신호등 앞에서

신호등이 보이다

신호등이 꺼지다

신호등을 기다리다

신호등이 깜빡이다

Frases Comuns

신호등 사거리

— An intersection with a traffic light.

신호등 사거리에서 좌회전하세요.

보행자 신호등

— A traffic light specifically for pedestrians.

보행자 신호등을 확인하세요.

차량용 신호등

— A traffic light for vehicles.

차량용 신호등은 아직 빨간불이에요.

신호등 대기

— Waiting at a traffic light.

신호등 대기 시간이 너무 길어요.

신호등 위반

— Running a red light or violating signals.

신호등 위반은 큰 사고로 이어질 수 있습니다.

신호등 점검

— Inspecting or checking the traffic lights.

오늘 오전에는 신호등 점검이 있습니다.

스마트 신호등

— AI-powered or sensor-based traffic lights.

서울시는 스마트 신호등을 늘리고 있습니다.

바닥 신호등

— LED strips on the ground that act as traffic lights.

바닥 신호등 덕분에 스마트폰을 봐도 안전해요.

신호등 주행

— Driving according to the lights.

신호등 주행을 잘 해야 연비가 좋아집니다.

신호등 없는 길

— A road without traffic lights.

신호등 없는 길은 항상 조심해야 합니다.

Frequentemente confundido com

신호등 vs 신호

General signal vs. physical traffic light object.

신호등 vs 표지판

Static sign vs. dynamic light-based signal.

신호등 vs 가로등

Street light (for illumination) vs. traffic light (for control).

Expressões idiomáticas

"인생의 신호등"

— Metaphor for life's moments of stopping or going.

지금 제 인생의 신호등은 노란불인 것 같아요.

Literary

"초록불이 켜지다"

— To get the 'go-ahead' or approval for something.

드디어 우리 프로젝트에 초록불이 켜졌어요.

Metaphorical

"빨간불이 들어오다"

— To face a warning or a stop in progress.

건강에 빨간불이 들어왔어요.

Common

"파란불을 기다리다"

— Waiting for the right opportunity to act.

기회가 올 때까지 파란불을 기다리고 있어요.

Metaphorical

"신호를 주다"

— To give a hint or a signal (not just traffic).

그녀가 나에게 신호를 줬어.

Informal

"깜빡이는 신호"

— A warning that time or an opportunity is running out.

우정에도 깜빡이는 신호가 보이기 시작했다.

Literary

"신호를 무시하다"

— To ignore warnings or social cues.

몸의 신호를 무시하지 마세요.

Metaphorical

"노란불에서 멈추다"

— To be cautious and not take risks.

위험한 상황에서는 노란불에서 멈추는 지혜가 필요하다.

Proverbial

"신호등처럼 바뀌다"

— To change one's mind or mood frequently.

그의 기분은 신호등처럼 자주 바뀌어요.

Colloquial

"신호 대기 중"

— Being in a state of limbo or waiting for a start.

취업 준비로 인해 제 인생은 지금 신호 대기 중입니다.

Metaphorical

Fácil de confundir

신호등 vs 가로등

Both are lights on the street.

가로등 (ga-ro-deung) is for lighting up the road at night; 신호등 is for traffic signals.

가로등이 켜져서 길이 밝아요. 신호등이 바뀌어서 차가 가요.

신호등 vs 전등

Both end in '등'.

전등 (jeon-deung) is a general electric light/lamp used indoors.

방의 전등을 켜세요.

신호등 vs 안내판

Both provide information to travelers.

안내판 (an-nae-pan) is an information board/map; 신호등 is a dynamic light.

안내판을 보고 길을 찾았어요.

신호등 vs 경고등

Both are signal lights.

경고등 (gyeong-go-deung) is a warning light (like on a dashboard or emergency vehicle).

차에 경고등이 들어왔어요.

신호등 vs 미등

Both are related to traffic/vehicles.

미등 (mi-deung) refers to the tail lights of a car.

밤에는 미등을 켜야 합니다.

Padrões de frases

신호등이 [Color]이에요.

신호등이 빨간색이에요.

신호등에서 [Direction]으로 가세요.

신호등에서 우측으로 가세요.

신호등이 [Action]-기 때문에 [Result].

신호등이 고장 났기 때문에 늦었어요.

신호등이 [Action]-자마자 [Action].

신호등이 바뀌자마자 출발했어요.

신호등은 [Concept]-를 상징합니다.

신호등은 도시의 질서를 상징합니다.

신호등의 [Part]은 [Feature]합니다.

신호등의 잔여 시간 표시기는 매우 유용합니다.

신호등 체계의 [Technical Aspect]을 [Action].

신호등 체계의 알고리즘을 최적화해야 합니다.

[Metaphor]로서의 신호등.

사회적 규범의 가시적 형태로서의 신호등.

Família de palavras

Substantivos

신호 (signal)

등 (light/lamp)

신호수 (signalman)

신호기 (signaling device)

Verbos

신호하다 (to signal)

점등하다 (to light up)

소등하다 (to turn off lights)

Adjetivos

신호가 뚜렷한 (clear signal)

등이 밝은 (bright light)

Relacionado

횡단보도 (crosswalk)

교차로 (intersection)

운전 (driving)

교통 (traffic)

보행자 (pedestrian)

Cadastre-se grátis para ver todos os exemplos

Como usar

frequency

Very high in urban settings; essential for daily communication.

Erros comuns

신호등을 건너다 → 횡단보도를 건너다
You cross the road/crosswalk, not the physical light post.
신호등이 바꿨어요 → 신호등이 바뀌었어요
Use the passive '바뀌다' because the light changes on its own.
초록색 신호등 (only) → 파란불
While not wrong, '파란불' is more idiomatic in Korea.
신호등을 무시하다 (for running a light) → 신호를 무시하다
You ignore the 'signal' (신호), not the physical 'lamp' (신호등).
신호등에 기다리다 → 신호등 앞에서/에서 기다리다
Use specific location particles like '앞에서' (in front of) or '에서' (at).

Dicas

Use '파란불'

To sound like a native, use '파란불' instead of '초록불' in casual conversation.

Wait for the beep

In busy areas, listen for the auditory signal; it's a helpful secondary cue.

Check for '우회전' signs

Even if the light is red, look for specific signs that might forbid a right turn.

Particle '에서'

Always use '신호등에서' when telling someone where to turn or stop.

Observe locals

Koreans are strict about signals; follow their lead to avoid fines or glares.

Learn '횡단보도'

This word almost always appears with '신호등'. Learn them as a pair.

Ground lights

Look for LED strips at the edge of the sidewalk; these are '바닥 신호등'.

Taxi instructions

Practice hearing '신호등 앞에서' as it's the most common taxi drop-off phrase.

Signal-Home-Drum

Use the 'Sin-Ho-Deung' mnemonic to never forget the syllables.

Green light idiom

Use '그린라이트' (Green Light) when talking about someone's romantic interest in you.

Memorize

Mnemônico

Think of 'Sin' (Signal) + 'Ho' (Home) + 'Deung' (Ding!). The Signal at the Home of the Ding! (the bell that rings when the light changes).

Associação visual

Imagine a tall pole with three eyes (red, yellow, green) staring at a 'Singing' (Sin) 'Horse' (Ho) on a 'Drum' (Deung).

Word Web

Road Car Stop Go Red Green Safety Intersection

Desafio

Count how many '신호등' you see on your way home and name their colors in Korean out loud.

Origem da palavra

Sino-Korean compound: 信號 (sin-ho) + 燈 (deung).

Significado original: 信 (trust/signal) + 號 (mark/number) + 燈 (lamp).

Sino-Korean (Hanja-based).

Contexto cultural

No specific sensitivities; the word is neutral and safe to use in all contexts.

English speakers usually call it a 'traffic light' or 'stoplight.' The concept is identical, but the 'blue for green' linguistic quirk is the main point of difference.

'Traffic Light' (신호등) by Lee Mujin (Song) 'Green Light' (그린라이트) - A popular segment on the talk show 'Witch Hunt' about romantic signals. The movie 'Traffic' (though not Korean, the word is used in subtitles).

Pratique na vida real

Contextos reais

Driving

신호등이 곧 바뀔 거예요.
신호등을 잘 보세요.
신호 위반 하지 마세요.
다음 신호등에서 멈춰 주세요.

Walking

신호등이 초록불이에요.
신호등 앞에서 기다려요.
신호등이 깜빡여요.
신호등을 확인하고 건너요.

Giving Directions

신호등에서 왼쪽으로 가세요.
두 번째 신호등에서 우회전하세요.
신호등 보이죠? 거기예요.
신호등 지나서 바로 있어요.

Reporting Problems

신호등이 고장 났어요.
신호등 불이 안 들어와요.
신호등이 너무 짧아요.
신호등 수리가 필요해요.

Metaphorical/Social

우리 관계의 신호등.
성공을 향한 초록불.
경고의 빨간불.
인생의 신호등.

Iniciadores de conversa

"한국의 신호등은 왜 초록색을 파란불이라고 할까요?"

"집 근처에 신호등이 많나요?"

"신호등이 없는 길을 건널 때 무섭지 않나요?"

"가장 긴 신호등 대기 시간은 얼마나 되어 보였나요?"

"스마트폰을 보느라 신호등을 놓친 적이 있나요?"

Temas para diário

오늘 길을 가다가 본 신호등에 대해 써보세요. 어떤 일이 있었나요?

당신의 인생에서 지금 '신호등'은 무슨 색인가요? 그 이유는 무엇인가요?

한국과 당신의 나라의 신호등 차이점에 대해 설명해 보세요.

신호등이 없는 세상을 상상해 보고 어떤 일이 벌어질지 써보세요.

교통 안전을 위해 신호등을 어떻게 더 개선할 수 있을까요?

Perguntas frequentes

10 perguntas

Historically, the Korean word 'parada' covered both blue and green. Even though 'chorok' (green) exists, 'parabul' remains the idiomatic standard for traffic lights.

No, it is relatively rare in major cities. Koreans generally wait for the '신호등' to turn green, reflecting a strong sense of public order.

Yes, many pedestrian '신호등' have digital countdowns showing how many seconds are left to cross.

Usually yes, but you must come to a complete stop first and yield to pedestrians. However, new laws are making this stricter, so look for signs.

It means proceed with caution. You'll often see this late at night when traffic is light.

It's a '바닥 신호등' (ground traffic light) — LED strips on the ground so people looking at phones can see the signal.

You can say '신호등이 곧 바뀔 거예요' (sin-ho-deung-i got ba-kkwil geo-ye-yo).

The counter is '개' (gae). Example: '신호등 한 개' (one traffic light).

Usually, '철도 신호기' is used for trains, but in casual conversation, '신호등' might be used.

Yes, for the visually impaired, they emit beeping sounds or voice guidance when the light turns green.

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