가위
gawi[ka̠ɥi]
The English phrase scissors is translated into Korean as 가위 (gawi).
가위 refers to a tool used for cutting.
Meaning: tool used for cutting (noun)
How does it change in a sentence?
Unlike in English, the Korean word 가위 is a singular noun and does not change form to indicate plurality.
How do you pronounce it?
gawi
What mistakes should you avoid?
It is more natural to use the singular form or specify the quantity.
Did you know?
- The Manchu word for scissors, hasaha, appears to be an old borrowing from the Korean language.
- While the modern word 가위 is used for the tool, an older version found in the Gyeongsang dialect is 가시개.
Examples in context
- 이 가위 잘 안들어요.These scissors don't cut well.Tatoeba #5383445 by rainbow4us, translation #60708 by CK
- 네 가위 좀 빌려 줄래?Can I borrow your scissors?Tatoeba #8988951 by Eunhee, translation #35466 by CK
- 나는 가끔 가위를 통조림따개로 쓴다.I sometimes use scissors as a can opener.Tatoeba #11105255 by intertime, translation #258147 by CK
- 가위 좀 빌리고 싶어요.I want to borrow the scissors.
Example conversation
Minji and Hyunwoo are preparing a gift together.
- 민지 Min-ji현우 씨, 가위 어디에 있어요?Hyeon-u ssi, gawi eodie isseoyo?Hyunwoo, where are the scissors?
- 현우 Hyeon-woo책상 위에 있어요.Chaeksang wie isseoyo.They are on the desk.
- 민지 Min-ji아, 찾았어요. 고마워요.A, chajasseoyo. Gomawoyo.Ah, I found them. Thank you.
- 현우 Hyeon-woo천천히 조심해서 쓰세요.Cheoncheonhi josimhaeseo sseuseyo.Please use them carefully.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “scissors” translations and entries 가위, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries 가위, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
