타는
taneun
The Korean word for "burning" is 타는 (taneun).
타는 is an adjective used to describe something that is on fire. You can also use the verb 타다 to express the action "to burn".
Meaning: on fire (adj)
Which one should you use?
You might use 타는 중 in informal settings to specifically emphasize that something is currently in the process of burning. If you are referring to a fire or a burning situation in a formal context, the term 화재 is used.
How do you pronounce it?
taneun
Did you know?
- The verb 타다 is a homonym that also means 'to ride' a vehicle or 'to mix' a powder into a liquid. Context is the only way to tell if someone is 'riding' a bus or 'burning' a piece of paper.
- If you are talking about a 'burning' sensation in your skin or eyes, Korean speakers often use the word 따갑다 instead of the verb for fire.
- The word 타다 can also mean 'to be tanned' by the sun, so a person 'burning' in the sun uses the same root as a forest fire.
Examples in context
- 불타는 나무는 아름다워요.The burning tree is beautiful.
- 방화가 화재를 초래할 수 있습니다.Arson can cause a fire.
- 캠프파이어가 불타버렸어.The campfire has completely burned.
- 타는 나무가 아주 뜨거워요.taneun namuga aju tteugeowoyo.The burning wood is very hot.
- 타는 촛불을 조심하세요.taneun chotbureul josimhaseyo.Be careful of the burning candle.
Example conversation
Ji-eun and Hyun-woo see smoke in the distance.
- 지은 Ji-eun현우 씨, 저기 보세요!Hyun-woo ssi, jeogi boseyo!Hyun-woo, look over there!
- 현우 Hyeon-woo뭐가 그렇게 타는 거예요?mwoga geureoke taneun geoyeyo?What is burning like that?
- 지은 Ji-eun산에 불이 났나 봐요.sane bul-i nanna bwayo.I think there is a fire on the mountain.
- 현우 Hyeon-woo빨리 신고해야겠어요.ppalli singohaeyagesseoyo.We should report it quickly.
