Meaning
To work extremely hard and diligently.
Cultural Background
Diligence is highly valued. The phrase is a badge of honor for hard workers. Similar to Korea, 'busy-ness' is often equated with productivity. Focus is more on 'efficiency' than just 'sweat'. Hard work is respected, but work-life balance is also very important.
Use with '뛰다'
It sounds most natural when paired with '뛰다' (to run) or '일하다' (to work).
Don't use for relaxing
Never use this to describe resting or slow activities.
Meaning
To work extremely hard and diligently.
Use with '뛰다'
It sounds most natural when paired with '뛰다' (to run) or '일하다' (to work).
Don't use for relaxing
Never use this to describe resting or slow activities.
Diligence is key
Koreans love to hear that you are working hard!
Test Yourself
Fill in the blank with the correct phrase.
그는 성공을 위해 ________ 노력했다.
The idiom is '발에 땀이 나도록'.
Which sentence is correct?
Choose the most natural sentence.
The idiom is used for intense work, not sleeping, eating, or laughing.
Complete the dialogue.
A: 오늘 왜 이렇게 피곤해? B: ________.
The context is being tired, so working hard is the logical reason.
Match the situation to the phrase.
You are preparing for a big exam.
Studying hard fits the idiom.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
4 exercises그는 성공을 위해 ________ 노력했다.
The idiom is '발에 땀이 나도록'.
Choose the most natural sentence.
The idiom is used for intense work, not sleeping, eating, or laughing.
A: 오늘 왜 이렇게 피곤해? B: ________.
The context is being tired, so working hard is the logical reason.
You are preparing for a big exam.
Studying hard fits the idiom.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questionsNo, it can be used for mental work like studying or planning.
Yes, it shows you are dedicated.
It is neutral and acceptable in most situations.
That is a common, slightly more casual version.
Because feet are the primary tools for movement and travel.
Yes, like '손이 모자라다' (hands are short/not enough).
Yes, if you are very dedicated to it.
Yes, it's common in essays and emails.
No, it's a metaphor.
Like 'ba-re tta-mi na-do-rok'.
Related Phrases
눈코 뜰 새 없다
synonymExtremely busy
허리가 휘어지다
similarTo work until one's back bends
땀 흘려 일하다
builds onTo work with sweat
동분서주하다
synonymRunning east and west
