열쇠
yeolsoe[ˈjɘ(ː)ɭs͈we̞]
The English word 'key' is translated into Korean as 열쇠 (yeolsoe).
열쇠 refers to a physical device designed to open and close a lock.
Meaning: device designed to open and close a lock (noun)
Which one should you use?
While 열쇠 is used for physical keys, if you are referring to a numeric or alphanumeric key in a digital context, such as a password, you should use 비밀번호.
How do you pronounce it?
yeolsoe
Did you know?
- The first written record of 열쇠 in a form similar to the modern word appears in a 1463 translation of the Lotus Sutra.
- In Korean, the concept of a 'key' to a problem or a 'key' person is not expressed using 열쇠, but often by the word 핵심, which means 'core'.
- The word 쇠 meaning 'metal' is a root found in many traditional Korean tools and weapons, reflecting the historical importance of ironworking.
Examples in context
- 열쇠를 지금 챙겨가도 될까요?Can I have the key now, please?This sentence shows how to ask for the 열쇠.Tatoeba #11105912 by intertime, translation #53213 by CM
- 나는 그들이 열쇠를 어디에 숨겼는지 모른다.I don't know where they hid the key.This sentence demonstrates a sentence using the word 열쇠 in the context of hiding something.Tatoeba #11105411 by intertime, translation #2266940 by _undertoad
- 나는 열쇠를 찾기 위해 현관 매트 아래와 근처 화분 안을 뒤졌다.I looked for the key under the welcome mat and in the nearby flower pot.This sentence illustrates searching for the 열쇠 in different locations.Tatoeba #6822030 by yesjustryan, translation #6569096 by CK
- 저는 열쇠를 어디에 두었는지 기억하지 못해요.I can't remember where I put the key.
- 나 키 잃어버렸어.I lost the key.
- 열쇠를 가지고 계신가요?Do you have the key?
- 3 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Hyunwoo and Jieun are at the entrance of their house.
- 현우 Hyeon-woo지은 씨, 열쇠가 어디에 있어요?Jieun ssi, yeolsoe-ga eodi-e isseoyo?Jieun, where is the key?
- 지은 Ji-eun제 가방 안에 열쇠가 있어요.Je gabang ane yeolsoe-ga isseoyo.The key is in my bag.
- 현우 Hyeon-woo다행이네요. 이제 문을 열어요.Dahaeng-ineyo. Ije mun-eul yeoreoyo.That's a relief. Let's open the door now.
- 지은 Ji-eun네, 현우 씨. 문을 열게요.Ne, Hyunwoo ssi. Mun-eul yeolgeyo.Okay, Hyunwoo. I'll open the door.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “key” translations and entries 열쇠, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries 열쇠, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
