Meaning
To be heavily burdened with responsibilities, often causing one to bend over.
Cultural Background
Reflects the high cost of private education (hagwon). Used in news to describe the 'sandwich' generation supporting both parents and children.
Use with '지경'
Add '-(으)ㄹ 지경이다' to emphasize you are *about* to reach the breaking point.
Context is key
Koreans use this to bond over shared economic hardships.
Meaning
To be heavily burdened with responsibilities, often causing one to bend over.
Use with '지경'
Add '-(으)ㄹ 지경이다' to emphasize you are *about* to reach the breaking point.
Context is key
Koreans use this to bond over shared economic hardships.
Test Yourself
Which situation is appropriate for '허리가 휘다'?
A) I have a slight headache. B) I have to pay for my child's expensive college tuition.
It is used for heavy burdens, not minor physical pain.
Complete the sentence.
물가가 너무 올라서 (____) 휘어요.
The idiom is '허리가 휘다'.
🎉 Score: /2
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
2 exercisesA) I have a slight headache. B) I have to pay for my child's expensive college tuition.
It is used for heavy burdens, not minor physical pain.
물가가 너무 올라서 (____) 휘어요.
The idiom is '허리가 휘다'.
🎉 Score: /2
Frequently Asked Questions
2 questionsYes, but it's more natural to say '가방이 너무 무거워서 허리가 휠 것 같다'.
It's okay if you are complaining about a project, but be careful not to sound like you are complaining about your salary.
Related Phrases
등골이 휘다
synonymSpine bends
허리띠를 졸라매다
builds onTighten the belt
