[Korean Culture & Language] To conspire or to kiss

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The word ‘맞추다’ has nine different definitions according to Oxford Languages. 

1. 크거나 작지 않고 적당한 상태를 이루게 하다.
1. Something isn’t too big or too small for the other.

2. 결합하여 일정한 구조의 물건이 되게 하다.
2. To combine two or more things together to form a proper structure.

3. 같거나 조화된 상태가 되게 하다.
3. To make two or more things the same so they are in a harmonious state.

4. 나란히 놓고 같은가 다른가를 살피다.
4. To compare two things to check whether they are the same.

5. 정도나 형편에 알맞은 상태가 되게 하다.
5. To adjust or adapt something to fit something else.

6. 있도록 하다.
6. To make something work or appear

7. 똑바른 상태가 되게 하다.
7. Place or arrange something in a line so that they are parallel or straight.

8. 닿게 하다.
8. To touch

9. 전문으로 하는 사람에게 맡겨 만들게 하다.
9. To custom-make something

Because the phrase ‘입을 맞추다’ can have two different meanings, you must be careful while using it.


The first meaning is ‘서로의 말이 일치하도록 하다,' which is directly translated as ‘to match each other’s words’. This expression is used when two or more people plot ahead of time to provide the same statement, excuse, or alibi as each other.
Ex) 거짓 말 하지마! 너네 수업 가기 싫어서 입 맞춘 것 다 알아.
Stop lying! I know you guys conspired to give me the same reasons to skip school.


Since ‘맞추다’ also means ‘to touch,’ ‘입을 맞추다’ can mean ‘to kiss’.

Ex) 그러고는, 샘과 지니는 입을 맞추었다
Then, Sam and Jinnie kissed.

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