beginner · freeInteractive lesson
시 vs 분 (number systems)
Try it freeCompare + self-checkRead the contrast, then take the on-page quiz.Open →Explanation
Hours often use native numbers + 시: 한 시, 두 시, 세 시.
Minutes use Sino numbers + 분: 십 분, 삼십 분.
Half past: 반: 두 시 반.
Mistake: 일 시 삼 분 or 하나 시 patterns that mix systems incorrectly.
Level: beginner. Read both sides of the contrast, say the examples out loud, then write one correct and one incorrect sentence and fix it.
Cross-link: open the related grammar or tools page the same day so the fix sticks in your study graph.
Examples
지금 세 시 십오 분이에요.
It’s 3:15 now.
오전 아홉 시에 시작해요.
It starts at 9 a.m.
Common mistakes
- Translating the English pair word-for-word without checking which Korean form carries the real distinction.
- Treating the two forms as free synonyms after memorizing only one example.
Keep learning
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Repair the pattern with corrected examples, then reinforce the right form through short review and speaking practice.
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