전화 vs 전화기
Korean word comparison
Listen to 전화
Listen to 전화기
| 전화 | 전화기 |
|---|---|
jeon-HWA noun | jeonhwagi noun |
| telephone; phone call | telephone device; phone set |
How they differ
전화기 specifically names the physical telephone apparatus (a handset or landline set), whereas 전화 can mean a call or, more loosely, 'phone' — use 전화기 when referring to hardware, placement, or repair of the device.
When to use each
When to use 전화: Prefer 전화 when referring to making or receiving a call or when speaking generally about telephones.
When to use 전화기: Prefer 전화기 when you mean the physical device itself (e.g., 'the phone on the desk' or when discussing a broken handset).
Side-by-side examples
- 지금 전화할 수 있어?
(Can you make a call now?) - 책상 위에 전화기가 있어.
(There is a telephone on the desk.)
Register & nuance: 전화기 is neutral and more specific; 전화 is more versatile in everyday conversation.