가방 vs 핸드백
Korean word comparison
Listen to 가방
Listen to 핸드백
| 가방 | 핸드백 |
|---|---|
gah-BANG noun | haendeu-baek noun |
| A bag or handbag used to carry personal items. | A handbag, especially a small bag carried by hand or on the shoulder. |
How they differ
핸드백 usually refers to a smaller, more fashion-oriented bag, often associated with women’s accessories. 가방 is the broader everyday word and can cover many kinds of bags, including backpacks and school bags.
When to use each
When to use 가방: Use 가방 when you mean a general bag without emphasizing style or size.
When to use 핸드백: Use 핸드백 when you mean a handbag or a small stylish bag carried for personal items.
Side-by-side examples
- 가방을 책상 위에 놓았어요.
(I put the bag on the desk.) - 새 핸드백을 샀어요.
(I bought a new handbag.)
Register & nuance: 핸드백 is a more specific and slightly fashion-related word; 가방 is the neutral general term.