Korean Pronunciation: How to Pronounce “keum“206

The Korean word "keum" (금) can be a noun or a verb, and its pronunciation depends on the context in which it is used.

Noun: "Gold"

When "keum" is used as a noun meaning "gold," it is pronounced with a high tone on the second syllable:```
keum (금) → keu'm (크'음)
```

This is the most common pronunciation of "keum," and it is used in words and phrases such as:* 금장 (keumjang): goldsmith
* 금은 (keumeun): gold and silver
* 금광 (keumgwang): gold mine

Verb: "To forbid"

When "keum" is used as a verb meaning "to forbid" or "to prohibit," it is pronounced with a low tone on the second syllable:```
keum (금) → keu'm (크'음)
```

This pronunciation is used when expressing a command or prohibition, such as:* 출입금지 (chulipeumji): no trespassing
* 흡연금지 (heupyeongeumji): no smoking
* 도박금지 (dobakgeumji): no gambling

Irregular Pronunciation

In certain compound words, "keum" may have an irregular pronunciation. For example, in the word "keumbang" (금방), meaning "quickly" or "soon," the "keum" is pronounced with a high tone on the first syllable:```
keumbang (금방) → 'keu'mbang (크'방)
```

This irregular pronunciation is unique to this particular word and its derivatives.

Tonal Variations

The tone of "keum" can vary depending on the context and intonation used by the speaker. In general, the noun form (meaning "gold") is pronounced with a higher tone than the verb form (meaning "to forbid"). Additionally, the tone may be higher or lower depending on the emphasis or emotion conveyed by the speaker.

Conclusion

The pronunciation of "keum" in Korean depends on the context in which it is used. When it is a noun meaning "gold," it is pronounced with a high tone on the second syllable. When it is a verb meaning "to forbid," it is pronounced with a low tone on the second syllable. In certain compound words, "keum" may have irregular pronunciations. Understanding these tonal variations is essential for accurate Korean pronunciation.

2025-02-15

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