similar split · similar, perception
Hear / listen vs Be heard in Korean
When you want to say "I hear something," use 듣다 (deutda). When something "can be heard" or "is audible," use 들리다 (deullida).
How these words work together
In Korean, 듣다 means to actively hear or listen to something, showing that you are paying attention. 들리다 means that a sound is heard or can be heard, focusing on the sound itself being audible. 듣다 is used when the subject is intentionally listening, while 들리다 is used when the sound reaches the ears naturally or passively.
Words in this chart
| Korean | Romanization | English |
|---|---|---|
| 듣다 | deutda | Hear / listen |
| 들리다 | deullida | Be heard |
Example sentences
나는 음악을 듣고 있어요.
I am listening to music.
밖에서 노래 소리가 들려요.
I can hear the sound of singing outside.
학생들이 선생님 말씀을 잘 듣습니다.
The students listen well to the teacher.
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