What it means
형제 means brothers or siblings — specifically a pair or group of brothers. 형제 자매 = brothers and sisters (all siblings). Korean family vocabulary is rich and specific.
Nuance & when to use
형제 = brothers. 자매 = sisters. 남매 = brother(s) and sister(s). Korean uses different words based on gender compositions. Idol groups often refer to their bond as 형제 같다 (like brothers) to show closeness.
⚠ Common mistake
형제 alone usually means brothers. For "siblings" including sisters, say 형제 자매 or 남매.
Example sentences
See also
FAQ
When is this used?
형제 = brothers. 자매 = sisters. 남매 = brother(s) and sister(s). Korean uses different words based on gender compositions. Idol groups often refer to their bond as 형제 같다 (like brothers) to show closeness.
What's a common mistake?
형제 alone usually means brothers. For "siblings" including sisters, say 형제 자매 or 남매.
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