보통
botong[ˈpo̞(ː)tʰo̞ŋ]
The English word 'usually' is translated into Korean as 보통 (botong).
보통 is used to mean 'most of the time' or 'usually'. It can also function as an adjective meaning 'ordinary' or 'normal' depending on the context of the sentence.
Meaning: most of the time (adv)
Which one should you use?
While 보통 is the standard way to say 'usually', it is often used to mean 'average' or 'normal' depending on the context. If you wish to express 'usually' or 'generally' in a more formal manner, you can use 대개.
How does it change in a sentence?
In a sentence, 보통 is typically placed before the verb or the time expression it modifies.
How do you pronounce it?
botong
Did you know?
- The word 보통 is frequently used in the phrase 보통이 아니다, which literally means 'not ordinary' but is used to describe someone who is impressively formidable or extraordinary.
- In Korean restaurants, you will often see 보통 used on menus to denote a 'regular' or 'medium' portion size, rather than a small or large one.
- The word 보통 is composed of two characters that literally mean 'universal' and 'pass through'.
Examples in context
- 난 보통 8시에 일어나.I usually get up at 8:00.This sentence shows how to use 보통 with a time expression.Tatoeba #477206 by HappyMidnight, translation #8861375 by alpucca
- 난 보통 여덟 시간 정도 자.I usually sleep for eight hours.This sentence shows how to use 보통 to describe a typical duration.Tatoeba #13755118 by qlTmalffk, translation #9202977 by DJ_Saidez
- 난 보통 오후 간식은 안 먹어.I don't usually have an afternoon snack.This sentence shows how to use 보통 in a negative sentence.Tatoeba #13755068 by qlTmalffk, translation #8272009 by CK
- 보통 그것은 저렇게 해요.Usually, it is done that way.
- 대개 하루에 세 번씩 먹으면 좋아요.It's usually good to eat three times a day.
- 저는 대체로 영화를 좋아해요.I usually enjoy movies (in general).
- 11 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Two friends are talking about their weekend routines.
- 현우 Hyeon-woo주말에 보통 뭐 해?jumare botong mwo hae?What do you usually do on weekends?
- 서연 Seo-yeon보통 집에서 영화를 봐.botong jibe-seo yeonghwareul bwa.I usually watch movies at home.
- 현우 Hyeon-woo그렇구나. 영화 좋아해?geureokuna. yeonghwa joahae?I see. Do you like movies?
- 서연 Seo-yeon응, 아주 좋아해.eung, aju joahae.Yes, I like them a lot.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry 보통, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries 보통, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
