Meaning
To have a dry mouth, often due to extensive talking.
Cultural Background
Repetition is often a sign of parental care. Parents use this phrase to show they care about their child's future. Similar idioms exist in China and Japan, reflecting a shared cultural emphasis on the importance of verbal instruction. The imagery of drying saliva is common in Arabic, showing that the physical toll of speech is a universal human experience. While 'blue in the face' is used, the focus is on the color change rather than the dryness of the mouth, showing a different cultural focus.
Use with -도록
Always pair it with '-도록' to show the extent of the action.
Don't use for thirst
If you are thirsty, use '목이 마르다'.
Meaning
To have a dry mouth, often due to extensive talking.
Use with -도록
Always pair it with '-도록' to show the extent of the action.
Don't use for thirst
If you are thirsty, use '목이 마르다'.
Test Yourself
Fill in the blank with the correct form.
선생님은 숙제를 하라고 입이 ______ 말하셨다.
The pattern is '입이 마르도록' to mean 'until the mouth is dry'.
Which sentence uses the idiom correctly?
Choose the best sentence.
The idiom is used for speaking or praising, not eating, drinking, or sleeping.
Complete the dialogue.
A: 왜 그렇게 화가 났어? B: ____________________.
The idiom explains frustration from repeating oneself.
🎉 Score: /3
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
3 exercises선생님은 숙제를 하라고 입이 ______ 말하셨다.
The pattern is '입이 마르도록' to mean 'until the mouth is dry'.
Choose the best sentence.
The idiom is used for speaking or praising, not eating, drinking, or sleeping.
A: 왜 그렇게 화가 났어? B: ____________________.
The idiom explains frustration from repeating oneself.
🎉 Score: /3
Frequently Asked Questions
2 questionsIt depends on the context. If you say it to someone who is not listening, it can sound frustrated.
It is better to avoid it in formal writing. Use '강조하다' (to emphasize) instead.
Related Phrases
입이 닳도록
synonymUntil the mouth wears out
침이 마르도록
synonymUntil the saliva dries
귀가 따갑다
contrastEars are stinging
