What it means
보다 normally means "to see," but attached to a verb with -아/어, it means "to try doing" something — to attempt an action and see how it goes.
Nuance & when to use
먹어 보다 = to try eating. 입어 보다 = to try on (clothes). 해 봐요 = try doing it! Very encouraging phrase. Common in cooking shows and K-dramas when someone urges another to taste food.
⚠ Common mistake
Don't confuse this with -아/어 보이다 (to appear/seem): 좋아 보여요 = You look good (seem good). The verb 보다 is the same but different grammar patterns.
Example sentences
See also
FAQ
When is this used?
먹어 보다 = to try eating. 입어 보다 = to try on (clothes). 해 봐요 = try doing it! Very encouraging phrase. Common in cooking shows and K-dramas when someone urges another to taste food.
What's a common mistake?
Don't confuse this with -아/어 보이다 (to appear/seem): 좋아 보여요 = You look good (seem good). The verb 보다 is the same but different grammar patterns.
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