꺾이다 in 30 Seconds
- A verb meaning to break or snap.
- Used for thin objects like branches and stems.
- Can also mean a spirit or will is broken.
- Often implies breaking due to external force.
- Literal Meaning
- To be broken or snapped by force or stress. This is most commonly used for inanimate objects that are relatively thin and can break cleanly, like branches, stems, or even thin pieces of plastic or metal.
- Figurative Meaning
- Can also be used figuratively to describe a spirit, will, or determination being broken or crushed. This implies a loss of resolve or an inability to continue due to overwhelming pressure or defeat.
The strong wind caused the old tree branch to 꺾이다.
After hearing the bad news, her spirit seemed to 꺾이다.
- Common Objects
- Branches (가지), stems (줄기), flowers (꽃), thin sticks (막대기), even thin plastic parts can be described as 꺾이다.
- Figurative Use
- When someone's will or courage is broken, often due to hardship, defeat, or discouragement.
The heavy rain caused the flower stem to 꺾이다.
- Cause and Effect
- The verb implies an external force causing the break. You'll often see it paired with subjects that represent that force, like wind (바람), rain (비), pressure (압력), or even a situation (상황).
His confidence 꺾이다 after failing the exam.
- Basic Structure
- The most common structure is [Subject + 꺾이다]. The subject is the thing that gets broken. For example, 'The branch broke' is '나뭇가지가 꺾였다'.
강한 바람에 나뭇가지가 꺾였다.
The tree branch broke in the strong wind.
- With a Cause
- Often, you will see a phrase indicating the cause before the subject. This can be done with particles like '-에' or '-으로'.
시험에 떨어져서 그의 의지가 꺾였다.
His will was broken because he failed the exam.
- Figurative Usage Examples
- In figurative use, the subject is often an abstract noun like 'spirit' (정신), 'will' (의지), 'hope' (희망), or 'courage' (용기).
그는 많은 어려움에도 불구하고 희망이 꺾이지 않았다.
Despite many difficulties, his hope did not break.
- Past Tense Usage
- The past tense '꺾였다' is very common, as breaks are often reported after they have happened.
너무 세게 눌러서 플라스틱 부분이 꺾였다.
I pressed too hard, and the plastic part snapped.
- Connecting Clauses
- It can be used in various sentence structures, including connecting clauses with conjunctions or endings like '-어서', '-지만', or '-기 때문에'.
그는 수많은 반대에도 불구하고 그의 신념이 꺾이지 않도록 노력했다.
Despite numerous objections, he tried not to let his beliefs be broken.
- Nature Documentaries
- You'll frequently encounter '꺾이다' when narrators describe the effects of weather on plants and trees. For instance, 'The heavy snow caused the branches to break' would be '폭설로 인해 나뭇가지가 꺾였다'. This is a very direct and common usage.
강풍으로 인해 많은 나무들이 꺾였다.
Many trees broke due to the strong winds.
- News Reports
- In news related to natural disasters or accidents, '꺾이다' is used to describe damage. For example, a news report about a car accident might mention a broken guardrail or a snapped antenna.
사고로 인해 가로등 기둥이 꺾였다.
The streetlight pole snapped due to the accident.
- Sports Commentary
- In sports, especially those involving physical exertion or potential for injury, '꺾이다' can be used to describe a player's spirit or determination being broken, or even a physical injury where a bone might be described as 'snapped' (though more specific medical terms are usually preferred for severe injuries).
경기 막판에 그의 투지가 꺾이는 듯 보였다.
Towards the end of the game, his fighting spirit seemed to break.
- Conversations about Hobbies
- If someone is gardening, they might say a delicate plant stem '꺾였다'. Or in DIY projects, a thin piece of wood or plastic might '꺾이다'.
화분에 심은 꽃 줄기가 꺾여서 슬펐어요.
I was sad because the stem of the flower planted in the pot broke.
- Personal Anecdotes
- People often use it to describe personal setbacks. 'My dream was broken' or 'My resolve was broken' are common figurative uses in personal stories.
그녀의 야심찬 계획은 예상치 못한 난관에 부딪혀 꺾이고 말았다.
Her ambitious plan ended up being broken by an unexpected obstacle.
- Confusing with '부러지다'
- The most common confusion is with the verb '부러지다' (to break). While both mean 'to break,' '꺾이다' is typically used for things that snap or bend and then break, like branches, stems, or thin objects. '부러지다' is more general and can apply to a wider range of breaks, including bones, solid objects, or things that shatter. For instance, a bone is '부러지다', but a thin stick might be '꺾이다'.
Incorrect: 강한 바람에 나뭇가지가 부러졌다.
Correct: 강한 바람에 나뭇가지가 꺾였다.
- Using it for Large, Solid Objects
- '꺾이다' implies a clean snap or break of something relatively thin or flexible. It's not typically used for large, solid objects that might shatter or break into pieces, like a large rock or a thick wall. For those, '부서지다' (to be destroyed/shattered) or '깨지다' (to break/shatter) might be more appropriate.
Incorrect: 벽이 꺾였다.
Correct: 벽이 무너졌다 (collapsed) or 깨졌다 (shattered).
- Overusing the Figurative Meaning
- While the figurative meaning of a broken spirit is valid, it's important not to overuse it for minor disappointments. It implies a significant crushing of resolve. For everyday sadness or disappointment, other words might be more suitable.
Incorrect: 시험을 망쳐서 내 꿈이 꺾였다.
More appropriate for this level of disappointment: 시험을 망쳐서 속상했다 (I was upset because I messed up the exam).
- Using Active Voice Incorrectly
- '꺾이다' is a passive verb. It means 'to be broken' or 'to be snapped.' You should not use it in an active sense where something breaks something else. For example, you wouldn't say 'The wind broke the branch' using '꺾이다' as the main verb for the wind. You would say 'The wind caused the branch to break' (바람이 나뭇가지를 꺾이게 했다) or more naturally, 'The branch broke due to the wind' (바람 때문에 나뭇가지가 꺾였다).
Incorrect: 바람이 나뭇가지를 꺾었다.
Correct: 바람 때문에 나뭇가지가 꺾였다.
- 부러지다 (bureojida)
- This is the most common synonym and often the source of confusion. '부러지다' is a more general term for 'to break'. It's used for a wider variety of objects, including bones, solid pieces of material, and things that break into multiple pieces. '꺾이다' specifically implies a snapping or bending break, often of thinner, more flexible items.
Example: 뼈가 부러지다 (bone breaks) vs. 나뭇가지가 꺾이다 (branch snaps).
- 깨지다 (kkaejida)
- This verb means 'to break' or 'to shatter,' and is primarily used for brittle objects like glass, ceramics, or thin plastic that break into many pieces. It's not used for snapping or bending breaks.
Example: 유리컵이 깨지다 (glass cup breaks/shatters) vs. 꽃 줄기가 꺾이다 (flower stem snaps).
- 서다 (seoda) / 넘어지다 (neomeojida)
- These verbs mean 'to stand' and 'to fall over,' respectively. While not direct synonyms for breaking, they are related in the context of plants or objects being affected by external forces. A plant might fall over ('넘어지다') because its stem broke ('꺾이다').
Example: 비바람에 식물이 넘어졌다. (The plant fell over in the wind and rain.) This implies a potential break or damage.
- 무너지다 (muneojida)
- This means 'to collapse' or 'to fall down,' typically used for structures like buildings, walls, or even large piles of things. It's not used for snapping breaks.
Example: 오래된 건물이 무너졌다. (The old building collapsed.)
- 좌절되다 (jwajeuldoeda)
- This is a more formal verb meaning 'to be frustrated' or 'to be thwarted.' It's a good alternative for the figurative meaning of '꺾이다' when referring to plans or hopes being dashed, but it doesn't carry the same sense of a spirit being crushed.
Example: 그의 계획은 좌절되었다. (His plan was thwarted.)
- 포기하다 (pogihada)
- This means 'to give up.' While someone whose spirit is '꺾이다' might '포기하다', these are not synonyms. '꺾이다' describes the state of being broken, while '포기하다' is the action of stopping.
Example: 너무 힘들어서 결국 포기했다. (It was too hard, so I eventually gave up.)
How Formal Is It?
Fun Fact
The character '꺾' itself visually suggests a bend or a break. While not a direct etymological link, the shape can aid memory. The verb '꺾다' (to break actively) and '꺾이다' (to be broken passively) share the same root and illustrate the active vs. passive nature of the action.
Pronunciation Guide
- Pronouncing 'kk' as a single 'k' sound.
- Lengthening the vowel sounds inappropriately.
- Not giving enough emphasis to the first syllable.
Difficulty Rating
At the A2 CEFR level, learners will encounter '꺾이다' in contexts related to nature and simple physical events. Understanding its figurative meaning requires more exposure and context. Recognizing the difference between '꺾이다' and '부러지다' is key for accurate comprehension.
What to Learn Next
Prerequisites
Learn Next
Advanced
Grammar to Know
Passive Voice Formation
'꺾다' (to break) becomes '꺾이다' (to be broken). Many Korean verbs follow this pattern for passive voice.
Cause and Effect with '-어서' and '-때문에'
바람이 세서 나뭇가지가 꺾였다. (Because the wind was strong, the branch broke.) / 강풍 때문에 나뭇가지가 꺾였다. (The branch broke due to the strong wind.)
Expressing Potential with '-ㄹ/을 뻔하다'
나뭇가지가 꺾일 뻔했다. (The branch almost broke.)
Using Negative Forms '-지 않다' and '-지 못하다'
그의 의지는 꺾이지 않았다. (His will did not break.) / 나는 희망이 꺾이지 못하게 했다. (I could not let my hope be broken.)
Nominalization with '-ㅁ/음'
꺾임 (the act of breaking/a break)
Examples by Level
나뭇가지가 꺾였어요.
The tree branch broke.
Simple past tense of 꺾이다.
꽃이 꺾였어요.
The flower broke.
Simple past tense, referring to a delicate object.
바람에 꺾였어요.
It broke in the wind.
Indicates the cause of the break.
이것은 꺾이면 안 돼요.
This should not break.
Negative imperative/advisory form.
너무 세게 잡았어요.
I held it too tightly.
Context for why something might break.
이것은 잘 꺾여요.
This breaks easily.
Describes the property of the object.
나뭇가지가 꺾였어요.
The branch broke.
Repetition for reinforcement.
꽃이 꺾였어요.
The flower broke.
Repetition for reinforcement.
강한 바람 때문에 나뭇가지가 꺾였습니다.
The tree branch broke because of the strong wind.
Using '-때문에' to express cause.
넘어지면서 연필이 꺾였어요.
My pencil broke as I fell.
Combining actions using '-면서'.
그의 열정은 쉽게 꺾이지 않았다.
His passion did not break easily.
Figurative use, negative past tense.
너무 무거운 짐을 들어서 막대기가 꺾였다.
The stick broke because I lifted too heavy a load.
Using '-어서' to show cause and effect.
이 얇은 플라스틱은 잘 꺾여요.
This thin plastic breaks easily.
Describing the characteristic of a material.
아이의 웃음소리가 꺾이는 것을 보았다.
I saw the child's laughter falter/break.
Figurative use for a sudden change in emotion.
폭우로 인해 꽃들이 꺾이는 것을 막지 못했다.
We couldn't prevent the flowers from breaking due to the heavy rain.
Using '-는 것을 막지 못했다' (couldn't prevent).
그는 실패 후 의지가 꺾였다고 느꼈다.
He felt his will was broken after the failure.
Figurative use, expressing a feeling.
거센 파도에 작은 배의 돛대가 꺾이는 사고가 발생했다.
An accident occurred where the mast of the small boat broke due to the strong waves.
More complex sentence structure, describing an event.
그녀는 수많은 반대에도 불구하고 그녀의 신념이 꺾이지 않도록 최선을 다했다.
Despite numerous objections, she did her best not to let her beliefs be broken.
Figurative use, emphasizing resilience.
오래된 나무 의자의 다리가 삐걱거리더니 결국 꺾여버렸다.
The leg of the old wooden chair creaked and then finally broke.
Describing a process leading to a break.
그 소식을 듣고 그의 희망은 산산이 꺾였다.
Hearing that news, his hope was utterly crushed.
Figurative use, emphasizing complete destruction of hope.
무리한 운동으로 인해 근육이 찢어지거나 인대가 꺾이는 부상이 발생할 수 있습니다.
Injuries such as torn muscles or snapped ligaments can occur due to excessive exercise.
Medical context, though '부러지다' is more common for bones.
사춘기 시절, 나는 세상에 대한 순수한 시각이 꺾이는 경험을 했다.
During my teenage years, I had an experience where my innocent view of the world was broken.
Figurative use for loss of innocence or idealism.
갑작스러운 경제 위기로 인해 많은 사업체의 계획이 꺾이고 말았다.
Due to the sudden economic crisis, the plans of many businesses ended up being broken.
Figurative use for plans being disrupted.
그는 어려운 상황 속에서도 자신의 정신이 꺾이지 않도록 굳건히 버텼다.
He held on firmly in difficult circumstances, ensuring his spirit did not break.
Figurative use, emphasizing mental fortitude.
예상치 못한 악천후로 인해 등반 중이던 로프가 꺾이는 아찔한 상황이 발생했다.
An alarming situation occurred where the climbing rope snapped due to unexpected severe weather.
Describing a dangerous event with a physical break.
그녀는 끊임없는 비판과 압박 속에서도 자신의 예술적 신념이 꺾이지 않기를 바랐다.
Despite constant criticism and pressure, she hoped her artistic beliefs would not be broken.
Figurative use in an artistic context, emphasizing integrity.
무리한 힘을 가하면 얇은 금속 막대도 쉽게 꺾일 수 있다는 것을 실험을 통해 입증했다.
Through the experiment, it was proven that even a thin metal rod can easily break if excessive force is applied.
Scientific context, demonstrating a physical property.
그의 오랜 노력에도 불구하고, 회사의 재정난은 그의 야심찬 비전을 꺾고 말았다.
Despite his long efforts, the company's financial difficulties ended up crushing his ambitious vision.
Figurative use for ambitious plans being destroyed by external factors.
정치적 격변기에는 개인의 이상과 희망이 꺾이는 경우가 많아 사회적 불안감이 증폭된다.
During periods of political upheaval, individuals' ideals and hopes are often broken, amplifying social anxiety.
Sociopolitical context, discussing widespread disillusionment.
그는 수년간 훈련해 온 올림픽 출전의 꿈이 부상으로 인해 꺾이는 것을 지켜봐야만 했다.
He had to watch his dream of participating in the Olympics, which he had trained for years, be broken by an injury.
Personal tragedy, a dream being shattered by circumstance.
인간의 의지가 얼마나 강한지, 혹은 얼마나 쉽게 꺾일 수 있는지를 보여주는 수많은 사례가 있다.
There are numerous cases that show how strong human will is, or how easily it can be broken.
Philosophical reflection on human resilience and fragility.
그녀는 어린 시절부터 겪어온 수많은 역경에도 불구하고, 그녀의 정신은 단 한 번도 꺾이지 않았다.
Despite numerous adversities she had faced since childhood, her spirit never once broke.
Emphasizing extreme resilience against long-term hardship.
고대 건축물의 기둥들이 지진으로 인해 꺾이는 것을 막기 위해 특수 설계된 보강재를 사용했다.
Reinforcing materials specially designed to prevent the ancient architectural columns from snapping during earthquakes were used.
Technical and historical context, discussing structural integrity.
그 작가는 사회의 부조리에 대한 날카로운 비판을 통해, 독자들의 안일한 사고방식이 꺾이도록 유도했다.
Through sharp criticism of societal absurdities, the author guided readers to break their complacent way of thinking.
Literary analysis, influencing readers' perspectives.
인간의 정신력은 놀라울 정도로 강인하지만, 극심한 트라우마 앞에서는 결국 꺾이고 만다.
Human mental strength is astonishingly robust, but in the face of extreme trauma, it ultimately breaks.
Psychological and philosophical observation on the limits of resilience.
그는 자신의 이상과 현실의 괴리감 속에서, 예술가로서의 열정이 점차 꺾이는 것을 느꼈다.
Amidst the gap between his ideals and reality, he felt his passion as an artist gradually breaking.
Introspective and emotional description of artistic disillusionment.
역사적으로 볼 때, 강력한 제국의 몰락은 내부의 분열과 외부의 압력으로 인해 그 권위가 꺾이면서 시작되었다.
Historically speaking, the fall of powerful empires began when their authority was broken due to internal divisions and external pressures.
Historical analysis of imperial decline.
정치적 리더십의 부재는 국민들의 신뢰가 꺾이는 주요 원인이 되며, 이는 곧 사회적 혼란으로 이어진다.
The absence of political leadership becomes a primary cause for the breaking of public trust, which in turn leads to social chaos.
Political science and sociology, discussing leadership and trust.
그녀는 젊은 시절의 패기와 이상이 현실의 벽에 부딪혀 꺾이는 것을 경험했지만, 좌절하지 않고 새로운 길을 모색했다.
She experienced her youthful spirit and ideals breaking against the wall of reality, but without despairing, she sought a new path.
Narrative of overcoming disillusionment and finding new purpose.
기후 변화로 인한 극심한 가뭄은 농작물 생산에 치명적인 타격을 입혀, 농민들의 생계 기반이 꺾이는 결과를 초래했다.
The severe drought caused by climate change dealt a fatal blow to agricultural production, resulting in the breaking of farmers' livelihoods.
Environmental and economic impact, discussing devastating consequences.
전통적인 윤리관이 현대 사회의 가치관과 충돌하면서, 많은 젊은이들의 도덕적 나침반이 꺾이는 현상이 나타나고 있다.
As traditional ethical values clash with modern societal values, a phenomenon is emerging where the moral compass of many young people is breaking.
Sociocultural critique, discussing moral ambiguity.
그의 예술은 기존의 미학적 규범을 파괴하고, 관객들의 미적 감수성이 꺾이는 새로운 경험을 선사했다.
His art destroyed existing aesthetic norms, offering a new experience that broke the audience's aesthetic sensibilities.
Art criticism, describing art that provokes a fundamental shift in perception.
인간의 정신적 회복력은 가히 경이롭지만, 끊임없는 고문과 억압 앞에서는 결국 가장 강인한 의지조차 꺾이고 만다는 비극적 진실을 부정할 수는 없다.
Human mental resilience is truly wondrous, but one cannot deny the tragic truth that even the strongest will ultimately breaks in the face of constant torture and oppression.
Existential reflection on the limits of human endurance.
그는 자신의 창작 활동 전반에 걸쳐, 현실의 장벽에 의해 이상이 꺾이는 과정과 그럼에도 불구하고 예술을 통해 새로운 의미를 찾으려는 필사적인 노력을 탐구했다.
Throughout his creative activities, he explored the process of his ideals breaking against the barriers of reality and, nevertheless, his desperate efforts to find new meaning through art.
Literary analysis of an artist's thematic explorations.
제국주의의 팽창으로 인해 수많은 토착 문화의 고유한 정체성이 꺾이고, 동질화되는 과정은 인류 역사의 비극적인 단면을 보여준다.
The unique identities of numerous indigenous cultures were broken and homogenized due to the expansion of imperialism, revealing a tragic facet of human history.
Post-colonial studies, discussing cultural erosion.
과학 기술의 발전은 인류의 삶을 윤택하게 했지만, 동시에 자연과의 조화로운 관계가 꺾이고 환경 파괴라는 새로운 위협에 직면하게 만들었다.
While the advancement of science and technology enriched human life, it simultaneously broke the harmonious relationship with nature, confronting us with the new threat of environmental destruction.
Critique of technological progress and its environmental consequences.
그녀는 젊은 시절의 낭만주의적 이상이 현실의 냉혹함에 의해 꺾이는 것을 뼈저리게 느끼면서도, 인간 정신의 불굴함을 믿고 다시 일어섰다.
She keenly felt her youthful romantic ideals breaking under the harshness of reality, yet believing in the indomitability of the human spirit, she rose again.
Narrative of profound personal transformation after severe disillusionment.
역사의 거대한 흐름 속에서 개인의 의지나 신념이 꺾이는 것은 불가피한 현상일 수 있으나, 그 꺾임 속에서도 새로운 가치와 희망을 발견하려는 노력이야말로 인간 정신의 본질이다.
In the grand currents of history, the breaking of individual will or beliefs may be an inevitable phenomenon, but the effort to discover new values and hope even within that breaking is the essence of the human spirit.
Philosophical discourse on fate, free will, and the enduring human spirit.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
— To not break, to remain unbroken. This emphasizes resilience and perseverance.
그녀는 수많은 어려움에도 꺾이지 않았다.
— To break completely or irrevocably. Adds a sense of finality to the break.
강한 충격으로 모든 것이 꺾여 버렸다.
— Broken hope. Refers to hope that has been dashed or destroyed.
그는 꺾인 희망을 뒤로하고 새 출발을 했다.
— Broken will. Refers to a person's determination or resolve being crushed.
연이은 패배로 그의 꺾인 의지는 회복되기 어려웠다.
— To be on the verge of breaking or to be about to break.
나뭇가지가 꺾일 듯 말 듯 위태로웠다.
— The sound of something breaking or snapping.
밤중에 꺾이는 소리가 들렸다.
— The breaking point. Can be literal (where something snaps) or figurative (the point at which someone gives up).
더 이상 참을 수 없어 꺾이는 지점에 이르렀다.
— A broken flower. Often used metaphorically for someone or something delicate that has been damaged.
꺾인 꽃처럼 힘없이 쓰러졌다.
— A broken spirit or mind. Similar to '꺾인 의지' but can imply a deeper psychological impact.
전쟁의 참상을 겪으며 그의 정신은 꺾여버렸다.
— An unbreakable heart/mind. Emphasizes strong resilience and refusal to give up.
그녀는 꺾이지 않는 마음으로 역경을 헤쳐나갔다.
Often Confused With
'부러지다' is a more general term for breaking and is used for bones, solid objects, etc. '꺾이다' is specific to snapping, often of thinner, flexible items like branches. The distinction is crucial for accurate usage.
'깨지다' means to break or shatter, typically for brittle materials like glass or ceramics. It implies breaking into many pieces, unlike the clean snap of '꺾이다'.
'끊어지다' means to be cut off or severed, usually for strings, ropes, or connections. It implies a separation rather than a break at a point.
Idioms & Expressions
— Literally 'a heart/mind that does not break'. This idiom refers to someone who is incredibly resilient, determined, and refuses to give up despite facing immense difficulties or setbacks. It emphasizes inner strength and perseverance.
그는 수많은 실패에도 불구하고 꺾이지 않는 마음으로 다시 도전했다.
Neutral/Motivational— Literally 'momentum is broken'. This idiom describes a situation where someone's confidence, energy, or assertiveness suddenly diminishes or is lost, often due to a setback or an opponent's strong counter.
상대방의 날카로운 지적에 그의 기세가 꺾이고 말았다.
Neutral/Descriptive— Literally 'waist is broken'. This idiom is used to describe someone bending over very deeply, often in a gesture of extreme respect, apology, or exhaustion. It implies bending to the point of extreme discomfort or near breaking.
그는 잘못을 인정하며 허리를 꺾어 사과했다.
Neutral/Descriptive— Literally 'dream is broken'. This idiom signifies that one's aspirations or dreams have been shattered or made impossible to achieve, often due to external circumstances or failures.
그녀는 부상으로 인해 올림픽 출전의 꿈이 꺾이고 말았다.
Neutral/Emotional— Literally 'heart/mind is broken'. Similar to '의지가 꺾이다' or '정신이 꺾이다', this refers to a person's emotional resolve being broken, leading to sadness, despair, or a loss of motivation.
그녀의 따뜻한 말 한마디에 나의 꺾였던 마음이 다시 살아났다.
Neutral/Emotional— Literally 'age is broken'. This idiom refers to reaching a significant milestone age, usually the end of one's twenties and the start of one's thirties (e.g., turning 30). It signifies a transition into a new phase of life.
그녀는 서른 살이 되면서 나이가 꺾였다고 느꼈다.
Informal/Colloquial— Literally 'resolution is broken'. Similar to '의지가 꺾이다', this specifically refers to a firm decision or resolve being weakened or abandoned.
어려운 상황에 직면하자 그의 결의가 꺾이기 시작했다.
Neutral/Descriptive— Literally 'foundational skills are broken'. This idiom can be used in contexts where someone's fundamental understanding or ability in a certain area is compromised, making further progress difficult.
그의 기초가 꺾였기 때문에 어려운 기술을 배우기 힘들어했다.
Figurative/Skill-based— Literally 'self-esteem is broken'. This refers to one's pride or self-respect being wounded, often due to humiliation or failure.
그녀의 자존심이 꺾이는 말을 듣고 매우 화가 났다.
Neutral/Emotional— Literally 'law is broken'. This idiom refers to a situation where the law is bent, manipulated, or disregarded, often for personal gain or convenience. It implies a corruption or subversion of legal principles.
권력자들이 법이 꺾이는 방식으로 사건을 은폐했다.
Formal/CriticalEasily Confused
Both verbs mean 'to break'.
'꺾이다' implies a snapping or bending break, common for thin, flexible objects like branches or stems. It suggests a clean break. '부러지다' is more general and applies to a wider range of breaks, including bones, solid objects, or things that break into multiple pieces. Think of a twig snapping ('꺾이다') versus a bone breaking ('부러지다').
바람에 나뭇가지가 꺾였다. (The branch snapped in the wind.) vs. 사고로 팔이 부러졌다. (His arm broke in the accident.)
Also means 'to break'.
'깨지다' is specifically for brittle materials like glass, pottery, or thin plastic that shatter into pieces. It implies fragmentation. '꺾이다' is about snapping or bending until a clean break occurs, not shattering.
유리잔이 바닥에 떨어져 깨졌다. (The glass fell on the floor and shattered.) vs. 꽃 줄기가 꺾여서 시들었다. (The flower stem snapped and wilted.)
Both imply separation.
'끊어지다' means to be cut off, severed, or disconnected. It's used for things like ropes, threads, or even relationships. '꺾이다' is about a physical fracture or snap, not a clean cut or severance.
너무 세게 잡아당겨서 밧줄이 끊어졌다. (I pulled too hard, and the rope broke/was severed.) vs. 얇은 철사가 꺾였다. (The thin wire snapped.)
Both describe something failing or collapsing.
'무너지다' means to collapse or fall down, typically used for structures like buildings, walls, or even large piles. It implies a loss of structural integrity leading to falling. '꺾이다' is about a specific point of fracture or snap.
오래된 성벽이 무너졌다. (The old castle wall collapsed.) vs. 빗물에 흙이 꺾여 흘러내렸다. (The soil broke and flowed down due to the rainwater - here '꺾여' implies a break in the soil structure.)
Both can relate to a loss of hope or plans.
'꺾이다' (figuratively) implies a spirit or will being crushed, often due to overwhelming pressure or defeat. It's a strong emotional impact. '좌절되다' means to be frustrated or thwarted, often referring to plans or efforts being blocked. While a broken spirit might lead to frustration, '꺾이다' carries a heavier emotional weight of being defeated.
그의 야심찬 계획은 예상치 못한 난관에 부딪혀 좌절되었다. (His ambitious plan was thwarted by an unexpected obstacle.) vs. 수많은 실패 후 그의 의지가 꺾였다. (After numerous failures, his will was broken.)
Sentence Patterns
[Subject] + 가/이 + 꺾였어요.
나뭇가지가 꺾였어요.
[Cause] + 에 + [Subject] + 가/이 + 꺾였어요.
바람에 나뭇가지가 꺾였어요.
[Subject] + 가/이 + 꺾이지 않다.
그의 의지가 꺾이지 않아요.
[Cause] + 때문에 + [Subject] + 가/이 + 꺾였어요.
강풍 때문에 나뭇가지가 꺾였어요.
[Subject] + 가/이 + 꺾이다 (figurative).
그의 꿈이 꺾였다.
[Subject] + 가/이 + 꺾여(서) + [Result].
넘어지면서 연필이 꺾여서 더 이상 쓸 수 없었다.
[Circumstance] + 속에서 + [Subject] + 가/이 + 꺾이지 않다.
어려운 상황 속에서도 그의 정신은 꺾이지 않았다.
[Cause] + 로 인해 + [Subject] + 가/이 + 꺾이다.
경제 위기로 인해 많은 사업체의 계획이 꺾였다.
Word Family
Nouns
Verbs
Related
How to Use It
High. This is a common verb, both literally and figuratively.
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Using '꺾이다' for bones or glass.
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Using '부러지다' for bones and '깨지다' for glass.
'꺾이다' is specific to snapping or bending breaks, like a twig. Bones break ('부러지다'), and glass shatters ('깨지다').
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Confusing the active and passive forms.
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Using '꺾이다' for the passive (to be broken) and '꺾다' for the active (to break something).
'꺾이다' means the subject itself is broken. If you are the one breaking something, you use the active verb '꺾다'. For example, '나뭇가지가 꺾였다' (The branch broke - passive) vs. '내가 나뭇가지를 꺾었다' (I broke the branch - active).
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Overusing the figurative meaning for minor issues.
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Using '꺾이다' for significant emotional blows and other words for minor disappointments.
Saying 'my hope was broken' ('희망이 꺾였다') implies a serious setback. For a small disappointment, words like '속상하다' (to be upset) might be more appropriate.
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Using '꺾이다' for structures collapsing.
→
Using '무너지다' for buildings or walls collapsing.
'무너지다' means to collapse or fall down, typically for large structures. '꺾이다' is about a break at a specific point.
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Confusing '꺾이다' with '끊어지다'.
→
Using '끊어지다' for severed ropes or strings, and '꺾이다' for snapped objects.
'끊어지다' implies being cut off or disconnected, like a rope breaking. '꺾이다' is a fracture or snap.
Tips
Literal vs. Figurative
Remember that '꺾이다' has both a literal meaning (physical breaking of thin objects) and a figurative meaning (broken spirit/will). Pay close attention to the context to understand which meaning is intended.
Passive Voice
'꺾이다' is a passive verb, meaning the subject is acted upon. The subject is the thing that gets broken. You'll often see subjects like '나뭇가지' (branch) or '의지' (will) followed by '가/이 꺾였다'.
Distinguishing from Similar Words
Always consider the material and how it breaks. Thin and snapping = '꺾이다'. Bones or solid objects = '부러지다'. Glass or brittle items = '깨지다'. Ropes or strings = '끊어지다'.
The 'kk' Sound
The initial 'kk' sound in '꺾이다' is strong and aspirated. Practice saying it clearly to avoid confusion with single 'k' sounds.
Sound Association
Associate the sharp 'kk' sound with the sharp 'snap' of a breaking twig. This auditory link can help you remember the word and its meaning.
Nature and Emotions
You'll often hear '꺾이다' when discussing nature (e.g., weather's effect on plants) and when talking about emotional states like a broken spirit or dashed hopes.
Sentence Building
Try creating sentences using '꺾이다' in different tenses and forms (e.g., '꺾였다', '꺾이지 않았다', '꺾일 뻔했다') to reinforce your understanding.
'꺾이지 않는 마음'
This common idiom means 'an unbreakable spirit' and highlights the value placed on resilience in Korean culture.
'꺾이다' vs. '부러지다'
Remember: '꺾이다' is for snapping/bending breaks (twig), '부러지다' is for general breaks (bone).
Weight of Figurative Use
When used figuratively for a person's spirit, '꺾이다' implies a significant emotional blow, not just minor disappointment.
Memorize It
Mnemonic
Imagine a thin twig. When you bend it too far, it makes a sharp 'kk' sound as it snaps. 'Kkeok-i-da' sounds like that sharp snap. Visualize the 'kk' as the sound of the break.
Visual Association
Picture a strong wind bending a thin tree branch until it snaps with a loud 'crack'. The visual of the branch bending and then breaking cleanly helps associate the word '꺾이다' with this action.
Word Web
Challenge
Try to describe three different scenarios where something might '꺾이다' – one literal and two figurative. Focus on using the word correctly in context and explaining the cause and effect.
Word Origin
The word '꺾이다' is believed to have originated from Middle Korean. Its root likely relates to the concept of bending or folding, which then leads to breaking. The sound symbolism of 'ㄲ' (kk) might have contributed to the sense of a sharp, decisive break.
Original meaning: The original meaning was likely focused on the physical act of breaking something by bending it.
KoreanicCultural Context
When using '꺾이다' figuratively for a person's spirit or will, be mindful of the context. It implies a significant impact and should not be used for minor disappointments. It carries a weight of emotional distress.
In English, we have phrases like 'snapped', 'broke', 'shattered', 'crushed', or 'dashed' (for hopes). '꺾이다' captures the nuance of a clean snap or break, especially for flexible items, and also the emotional weight of a broken spirit.
Practice in Real Life
Real-World Contexts
Describing damage to plants and nature after weather events.
- 강풍에 나뭇가지가 꺾였다.
- 폭설로 꽃들이 꺾였다.
- 넘어지면서 줄기가 꺾였다.
Talking about breaking thin objects.
- 연필이 꺾였다.
- 얇은 플라스틱이 꺾였다.
- 막대기가 꺾여 버렸다.
Expressing a broken spirit, will, or hope (figurative).
- 그의 의지가 꺾였다.
- 그녀의 희망이 꺾였다.
- 꿈이 꺾이는 것을 느꼈다.
Discussing resilience and perseverance.
- 꺾이지 않는 마음.
- 정신이 꺾이지 않도록 노력했다.
- 쉽게 꺾이지 않는 사람.
Describing physical strain or potential injury (less common for bones, more for ligaments/tendons).
- 무리한 동작으로 힘줄이 꺾이는 줄 알았다.
- 발목이 꺾이는 느낌이었다.
Conversation Starters
"Have you ever seen a tree branch snap in the wind? What did it look like?"
"If your dream was suddenly broken, how would you feel and what would you do next?"
"What kind of things in nature do you think are most likely to break or snap?"
"Can you think of a time when your determination was tested? Did you feel like it was '꺾이다'?"
"How important is it for people to have an 'unbreakable spirit' (꺾이지 않는 마음)?"
Journal Prompts
Describe a time you witnessed something break (literally or figuratively). What was the cause and what was the result?
Write about a personal goal or dream you had. Did it ever feel like it was '꺾이다'? If so, how did you cope with that feeling?
Imagine you are a gardener. Describe the state of your garden after a strong storm, using the word '꺾이다' to describe any damage.
Reflect on the value of resilience. When is it important for one's spirit not to '꺾이다'?
Compare and contrast the Korean word '꺾이다' with an English word like 'snap' or 'break'. What nuances do they share and what are their differences?
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questions'꺾이다' specifically refers to breaking by snapping or bending, typically of thin, flexible objects like branches, stems, or thin plastic. It implies a clean break. '부러지다' is a more general term for breaking and is used for a wider range of objects, including bones, solid materials, or things that break into multiple pieces. Think of a twig snapping ('꺾이다') versus a bone breaking ('부러지다').
Yes, but figuratively. '꺾이다' can describe a person's spirit, will, or determination being broken or crushed due to hardship, defeat, or discouragement. For example, '그의 의지가 꺾였다' means 'his will was broken'.
Common objects include tree branches (나뭇가지), flower stems (꽃 줄기), thin sticks (막대기), and thin pieces of plastic or metal. Figuratively, abstract concepts like will (의지), spirit (정신), hope (희망), or dreams (꿈) are described as being '꺾이다'.
'꺾이다' is a passive verb. It means 'to be broken' or 'to be snapped'. The active form is '꺾다' (to break something).
You can use the pattern '-ㄹ/을 뻔하다'. For example, '나뭇가지가 꺾일 뻔했다' means 'The branch almost broke/snapped'.
'꺾이다' is for snapping or bending breaks, while '깨지다' is for shattering, typically of brittle materials like glass or ceramics. If something breaks into many pieces, you'd use '깨지다'; if it snaps cleanly, you'd use '꺾이다'.
Generally, no. Bones are usually described as '부러지다' (to break). While '꺾이다' can be used figuratively to describe intense pain ('뼈가 꺾이는 줄 알았다' - I thought my bone was going to snap), the literal break of a bone uses '부러지다'.
It literally translates to 'a heart/mind that does not break'. It's an idiom meaning someone is incredibly resilient, determined, and refuses to give up despite facing severe difficulties. It emphasizes inner strength and perseverance.
Both can be used, but they have slightly different nuances. '좌절되다' means to be frustrated or thwarted, often referring to efforts being blocked. '꺾이다' (figuratively) implies a stronger sense of being crushed or defeated, often affecting one's spirit or will. For plans, '좌절되다' is common, but if the plan's failure deeply impacts one's motivation, '꺾이다' could also apply.
Yes, the active form is '꺾다' (kkeokda), meaning 'to break' or 'to snap' something. For example, '나는 나뭇가지를 꺾었다' means 'I broke the branch'.
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Summary
The Korean verb '꺾이다' (kkeokida) means to be broken or snapped, commonly used for physical objects like branches or stems that break cleanly. It also carries a figurative meaning, signifying a spirit, will, or determination being crushed or broken, often due to overwhelming pressure or defeat.
- A verb meaning to break or snap.
- Used for thin objects like branches and stems.
- Can also mean a spirit or will is broken.
- Often implies breaking due to external force.
Literal vs. Figurative
Remember that '꺾이다' has both a literal meaning (physical breaking of thin objects) and a figurative meaning (broken spirit/will). Pay close attention to the context to understand which meaning is intended.
Passive Voice
'꺾이다' is a passive verb, meaning the subject is acted upon. The subject is the thing that gets broken. You'll often see subjects like '나뭇가지' (branch) or '의지' (will) followed by '가/이 꺾였다'.
Distinguishing from Similar Words
Always consider the material and how it breaks. Thin and snapping = '꺾이다'. Bones or solid objects = '부러지다'. Glass or brittle items = '깨지다'. Ropes or strings = '끊어지다'.
The 'kk' Sound
The initial 'kk' sound in '꺾이다' is strong and aspirated. Practice saying it clearly to avoid confusion with single 'k' sounds.
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