검
geom[kɘ(ː)m]
The English word "sword" can be translated into Korean as 검 (geom) or 칼.
Meaning: weapon (noun)
Ways to say it
| Korean | Romanization (Wiktionary) | IPA |
|---|---|---|
| 검 | geom | [kɘ(ː)m] (SK Standard, Seoul, narrow) |
| 칼 | kal | [kʰa̠ɭ] (SK Standard, Seoul, narrow) |
Both terms refer to a weapon, but they are used in different contexts. 검 specifically means sword, while 칼 is a broader term that can mean sword, knife or any general bladed tool. Additionally, 칼 is the more common term used to mean a knife in everyday Korean.
Which one should you use?
검 is a more specific term for a sword and is typically found in literary, historical or formal contexts, such as fantasy novels or historical dramas. In contrast, 칼 is an everyday term that can refer to a sword, a knife or a general blade. If you are talking about the handle or hilt of a sword, you would use the term 칼자루.
How do you pronounce it?
geom
Did you know?
Examples in context
- 내 검을 줘.Give me my sword.This sentence is useful for practicing the use of 검 when requesting a weapon.Tatoeba #8362213 by Eunhee, translation #1078683 by Scott
- 한 자루의 검One sword
- 두 자루의 검Two swords
- 여러 자루의 검Several swords
- 그는 빛나는 검을 들고 있었다.geuneun binnaneun geomul deulgo isseotda.He was holding a shining sword.
- 전설 속의 검을 찾아라.jeonseolsogui geomeul chajara.Find the legendary sword.
Example conversation
Two friends are discussing a video game they are playing.
- 민지 Min-ji민준아, 게임에서 어떤 검을 쓸 거야?minjun-a, geim-eseo eotteon geom-eul sseul geoya?Minjun, which sword will you use in the game?
- 민준 Min-jun나는 가장 강력한 검을 원해.naneun gajang gangryeokhan geom-eul wonhae.I want the most powerful sword.
- 민지 Min-ji그 검은 너무 비싸지 않아?geu geom-eun neomu bissa-ji ana?Isn't that sword too expensive?
- 민준 Min-jun조금 비싸지만 꼭 필요해.jogeum bissajiman kkok piryohae.It is a bit expensive, but I definitely need it.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “sword” translations and entries 검, 칼, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries 검, 칼, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
