돌다

The word 돌다 is a fundamental Korean verb that captures the essence of circular motion. Whether you are spinning in a chair, turning a corner on the street, or watching the earth orbit the sun, this is the word you need.

Beyond physical rotation, it is frequently used in daily life to describe completing a route or even a state of mind. It is a versatile verb that appears in everything from simple directions to complex emotional expressions.

The etymology of 돌다 traces back to Middle Korean roots associated with circular motion. It shares linguistic DNA with various ancient Altaic influences that prioritize the concept of 'rounding' or 'returning.'

Historically, the word has remained remarkably stable, reflecting the universal human experience of observing cycles in nature. Over centuries, it expanded from purely physical movement to abstract concepts, such as the 'circulation' of goods in a marketplace.

You will use 돌다 in two main ways: physical rotation and directional movement. If you are giving directions, you might say '오른쪽으로 도세요' (turn to the right).

In a more casual register, it can describe someone who has 'lost their mind' (머리가 돌다). It is a neutral verb, making it appropriate for both casual conversation and formal instructional settings.

1. 머리가 돌다: To go crazy or lose one's temper. Example: '너무 화가 나서 머리가 돌 것 같아.'

2. 눈이 돌다: To be blinded by anger or greed. Example: '돈에 눈이 돌아서 실수를 했다.'

3. 제자리걸음을 돌다: To run in place or make no progress. Example: '노력해도 제자리걸음만 돌고 있다.'

4. 한 바퀴 돌다: To take a walk around a place. Example: '공원을 한 바퀴 돌자.'

5. 세상이 돌다: To feel dizzy. Example: '갑자기 세상이 도는 것 같아.'

돌다 is a regular verb in most contexts, though it interacts with various honorific suffixes. When conjugated, the 'ㄹ' stem can sometimes cause sound changes depending on the following vowel.

Pronounced as [dol-da], the 'o' is a rounded vowel, and the 'l' is a clear lateral consonant. It rhymes with words like '몰다' (to drive) and '벌다' (to earn).