호미로 막을 것을 가래로 막는다
Homiro mageul geoseul garaero mangneunda
Block with shovel what hoe could block
Signification
Ignoring a small problem until it becomes a big, difficult one.
Contexte culturel
The proverb highlights the importance of communal maintenance in rice farming, where a small breach in a water channel could ruin an entire village's harvest. It is frequently used in business settings to emphasize the importance of 'risk management' and 'preventative maintenance'. Parents often use this to teach children the value of responsibility and not putting off chores or homework. It is a common phrase used by doctors and health professionals to encourage patients to seek early treatment.
Focus on the contrast
When saying this, emphasize '호미' and '가래' to make the contrast clear to the listener.
Use it as a warning
This is a very common way to give advice to friends or colleagues without sounding too aggressive.
Signification
Ignoring a small problem until it becomes a big, difficult one.
Focus on the contrast
When saying this, emphasize '호미' and '가래' to make the contrast clear to the listener.
Use it as a warning
This is a very common way to give advice to friends or colleagues without sounding too aggressive.
Teste-toi
Fill in the missing tool.
호미로 막을 것을 ______로 막는다.
The proverb specifically contrasts the small 'homi' with the large 'garae'.
Which situation best fits the proverb?
Which of these is a good time to use the proverb?
The proverb is about the escalation of a small problem due to neglect.
Complete the response.
A: 'I'll fix this small crack later.' B: 'Don't do that! _________________.'
This is the correct proverb structure warning against delay.
🎉 Score : /3
Aides visuelles
Banque d exercices
3 exercices호미로 막을 것을 ______로 막는다.
The proverb specifically contrasts the small 'homi' with the large 'garae'.
Which of these is a good time to use the proverb?
The proverb is about the escalation of a small problem due to neglect.
A: 'I'll fix this small crack later.' B: 'Don't do that! _________________.'
This is the correct proverb structure warning against delay.
🎉 Score : /3
Questions fréquentes
3 questionsIt is neutral. It can be used in both casual and professional settings.
Yes, as long as it involves a small problem growing into a big one.
Think of it as a 'small tool' and 'garae' as a 'big tool'.
Expressions liées
소 잃고 외양간 고친다
contrastFixing things after the damage is done.
유비무환
similarPreparedness prevents trouble.
돌다리도 두들겨 보고 건너라
similarCheck even a stone bridge before crossing.
시작이 반이다
builds onStarting is half the battle.
