Signification
Focus intensely on one task to achieve success, rather than scattering efforts.
Contexte culturel
Reflects the 'Artisan Spirit' ({장인정신|匠人精神}). In Korea, people who spend their whole lives perfecting one thing (like a specific food or craft) are highly respected as 'Masters' ({명장|名匠}). In the modern 'Gig Economy,' this proverb is sometimes debated. Some say being a 'Generalist' is better than being a 'Specialist' (the one well). Similar to the concept of 'Kodawari' (uncompromising pursuit of perfection). Both cultures value the depth of knowledge over breadth. In Korean education, students are often encouraged to find one 'major' or 'specialty' early on, reflecting this proverb's influence.
Use for Encouragement
Use this when a friend is about to give up on a difficult task. It sounds supportive and wise.
Don't be too bossy
The '-라' ending is an imperative. Use it as a quote ('~라고 하잖아요') rather than a direct command to avoid sounding rude.
Signification
Focus intensely on one task to achieve success, rather than scattering efforts.
Use for Encouragement
Use this when a friend is about to give up on a difficult task. It sounds supportive and wise.
Don't be too bossy
The '-라' ending is an imperative. Use it as a quote ('~라고 하잖아요') rather than a direct command to avoid sounding rude.
The 'Artisan' Connection
Koreans love the idea of 'Mastery'. Mentioning this proverb in a business context shows you value long-term growth.
Teste-toi
Complete the proverb with the correct words.
우물을 파도 ___ 우물___ 파라.
'한' (one) and '-만' (only) are the key components of this proverb.
Which situation best fits this proverb?
민수는 매달 새로운 취미를 시작하지만 금방 그만둡니다.
Minsu changes hobbies too often, so he needs advice about focus and persistence.
Choose the most natural response.
A: 한국어 공부가 너무 힘들어요. 그냥 포기하고 영어를 배울까요? B: _________________
B encourages A to stick with Korean using the proverb.
🎉 Score : /3
Aides visuelles
Banque d exercices
3 exercices우물을 파도 ___ 우물___ 파라.
'한' (one) and '-만' (only) are the key components of this proverb.
민수는 매달 새로운 취미를 시작하지만 금방 그만둡니다.
Minsu changes hobbies too often, so he needs advice about focus and persistence.
A: 한국어 공부가 너무 힘들어요. 그냥 포기하고 영어를 배울까요? B: _________________
B encourages A to stick with Korean using the proverb.
🎉 Score : /3
Questions fréquentes
5 questionsYes, but it's often debated. While elders still use it to encourage persistence, younger people often discuss the need to be 'multi-talented' in a fast-changing world.
Yes! If someone is dating many people at once and can't decide, a friend might jokingly say '한 우물만 파라' to tell them to pick one person.
There isn't a direct 'proverb' opposite, but the concept of 'N-job-ler' (N잡러) or 'Multi-potentialite' represents the opposite philosophy.
In old Korea, wells were the most important resource for a village. Digging one was the ultimate test of labor and commitment.
You can say '저는 이 분야에서 한 우물만 팠습니다' (I have dug only one well in this field).
Expressions liées
우물 안 개구리
similarA frog in a well.
낙숫물이 바위를 뚫는다
similarFalling drops of water pierce a rock.
시작이 반이다
contrastStarting is half the battle.
지성이면 감천이다
builds onSincerity moves heaven.
