사촌 형
sachon hyeong
The phrase for older cousin in Korean is 사촌 형 (sachon hyeong).
사촌 형 is a specific term used by male speakers to refer to an older male cousin.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of 사촌 (cousin) and 형 (older brother).
Which one should you use?
While a male speaker uses 사촌 형 to refer to an older male cousin, a female speaker would use 사촌 오빠 to refer to the same person.
How do you pronounce it?
sachon hyeong
Did you know?
- The term 사촌 literally translates to 'four inches' or 'four degrees' in a kinship context. It refers to the four steps of distance in a family tree between you and your cousin.
- The kinship system that produces 사촌 형 is so detailed that there are distinct titles for cousins based on whether they are from the father's side or mother's side.
- In many Korean families, calling an older cousin by their name is considered rude. Instead, you must use kinship terms like 형 even if you are not biological brothers.
Examples in context
- 사촌 형은 정말 친절해요.sachon hyeongeun jeongmal chinjeolhaeyo.My older male cousin is very kind.
- 우리 사촌 형은 대학생이에요.uri sachon hyeongeun daehaksaengieyo.My older male cousin is a college student.
- 사촌 형을 오늘 만나요.sachon hyeongeul oneul mannayo.I am meeting my older male cousin today.
Example conversation
Jihoon tells Seoyeon about his plans for the weekend.
- 지훈 Ji-hun이번 주말에 사촌 형을 만나요.ibeon jumare sachon hyeongeul mannayo.I am meeting my older male cousin this weekend.
- 서연 Seo-yeon정말요? 사촌 형은 어디에 살아요?jeongmallyo? sachon hyeongeun eodie sarayo?Really? Where does your older male cousin live?
- 지훈 Ji-hun서울에 살고 있어요.seoure salgo isseoyo.He lives in Seoul.
- 서연 Seo-yeon그렇군요. 재미있게 놀다 오세요.geureokunyo. jaemiitge nolda oseyo.I see. Have a fun time.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries 사촌, 형, CC BY-SA 4.0.
