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병들다

A2 verb 9 min read

병들다

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips 병들다 in 30 Seconds

Explanation 병들다 in your Level:

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Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

병들다 in 30 Seconds

To become sick, fall ill, or contract a disease.
Emphasizes the transition from health to sickness.
Used for people, animals, plants, and metaphorically.
Conjugates like other verbs, e.g., 병들어요 (present), 병들었어요 (past).

The Korean verb 병들다 (byeongdeulda) means to become sick, to fall ill, or to contract a disease. It's a common and direct way to express that someone or something is no longer healthy and has developed an illness. This word can be used for people, animals, and even plants when they become diseased.

Basic Meaning: To fall ill; to become sick.

Usage Context: Used when describing the onset of an illness or a state of being unwell. It implies a transition from a healthy state to a sick one.

그녀는 감기에 병들다.

She is sick with a cold.

오래된 나무가 병충해로 병들다.

The old tree became sick from pests and diseases.

It can be used in various contexts, from discussing personal health to talking about the well-being of animals or even the health of a nation's economy if it's metaphorically described as 'sick'. For instance, one might say a country's economy has '병들다' if it's facing severe recession or corruption, indicating a deep-seated problem that has made it unhealthy.

Figurative Use: Can be used metaphorically to describe something that is corrupted, unhealthy, or malfunctioning, like a system or an organization.

부패로 인해 사회가 병들다.

Society has become sick due to corruption.

Understanding '병들다' is crucial for discussing health-related topics in Korean, from simple ailments to more serious conditions. It's a versatile verb that adds depth to descriptions of illness and decline.

Scope of Application: Applies to humans, animals, plants, and can be used metaphorically for systems or abstract concepts.

The verb 병들다 (byeongdeulda) can be conjugated in various ways to fit different grammatical structures and tenses. Its core meaning of 'to become sick' remains consistent. Understanding its conjugation is key to using it accurately in sentences.

Present Tense: The present tense conjugation is typically '병들어요' (byeongdeureoyo) for polite speech or '병든다' (byeongdeunda) for plain form. This indicates a current state of becoming sick or a general tendency to get sick.

날씨가 갑자기 추워지면서 많은 사람들이 병들어요.

As the weather suddenly got cold, many people are getting sick.

Past Tense: In the past tense, it becomes '병들었어요' (byeongdeureosseoyo) or '병들었다' (byeongdeureotda). This is used to describe an event that has already happened – someone or something became sick in the past.

그는 작년에 심한 독감에 병들었어요.

He fell sick with a severe flu last year.

Future Tense: The future tense can be expressed using '-겠어요' (getseoyo) or '-ㄹ 거예요' (-l geoyeyo), resulting in '병들겠어요' (byeongdeulgetseoyo) or '병들 거예요' (byeongdeul geoyeyo). This indicates a likelihood or prediction of becoming sick.

이런 환경에서는 금방 병들지도 몰라요.

In this environment, one might quickly get sick.

'병들다' can also be used in descriptive clauses, often in its adjectival form '병든' (byeongdeun), meaning 'sick' or 'diseased'. For example, '병든 새' (byeongdeun sae) means 'a sick bird'.

Adjectival Form: The past participle form '병든' (byeongdeun) acts as an adjective, modifying nouns to indicate they are in a state of sickness or disease.

병든 식물을 치료해야 해요.

We need to treat the sick plant.

When discussing potential outcomes or conditions, you might use it with '-(으)면' (-myeon), meaning 'if'. For example, '만약 당신이 병들면, 의사에게 가세요' (Manyak dangsin-i byeongdeulmyeon, euisa-ege gaseyo) - 'If you get sick, go to the doctor.'

Conditional Use: Used in conditional sentences to discuss hypothetical situations of falling ill.

계속 야근하면 몸이 병들 수 있어요.

If you keep working overtime, your body can get sick.

In summary, '병들다' is a fundamental verb for expressing the process of becoming ill, and its various conjugations allow for nuanced expression in Korean sentences.

You'll encounter the verb 병들다 (byeongdeulda) in a variety of everyday and formal situations in Korea. Its usage spans personal health discussions, news reports, and even literary or metaphorical contexts.

Health Conversations: In casual conversations among friends and family, people might say things like, '요즘 날씨가 이상해서 감기에 병들기 쉬워요.' (Yojeum nalssi-ga isanghaeseo gamgi-e byeongdeulgi swiwoyo.) - 'The weather is strange these days, so it's easy to get sick with a cold.'

우리 아이가 얼마 전에 병들었어요.

Our child got sick a while ago.

News and Media: News reports about public health, epidemics, or even agricultural issues often use '병들다'. For example, a news headline might read, '농작물이 가뭄으로 병들고 있다.' (Nongjakmul-i gamum-euro byeongdeulgo itda.) - 'Crops are becoming sick due to the drought.'

전염병이 퍼져 많은 사람들이 병들었다.

An epidemic spread, and many people became sick.

Veterinary and Agricultural Contexts: Discussions about animal health or farming will often use '병들다'. You might hear a farmer say, '우리 소가 갑자기 병들어서 걱정이에요.' (Uri so-ga gapjagi byeongdeureoseo geokjeong-ieyo.) - 'I'm worried because our cow suddenly got sick.'

정원사가 병든 장미를 잘라내고 있다.

The gardener is cutting off the diseased rose.

Literary and Figurative Language: In literature, poetry, or even opinion pieces, '병들다' can be used metaphorically. For example, an author might describe a society as having '병든' (diseased) values or a system that has '병들어' (become sick) due to corruption.

그의 마음은 슬픔으로 병들었다.

His heart became sick with sadness.

You will also hear it in medical contexts, such as when a doctor is explaining a diagnosis or a patient is describing their symptoms. It's a fundamental term in the Korean lexicon for discussing health and illness.

When learning 병들다 (byeongdeulda), learners might make a few common mistakes related to its usage, conjugation, and distinction from similar words. Being aware of these can help you use the word more accurately.

Confusing with '아프다' (to be sick/hurt): The most frequent confusion is between '병들다' and '아프다'. '병들다' specifically refers to the process of *becoming* sick or falling ill, while '아프다' describes the state of *being* sick or experiencing pain. Using '병들다' when you mean 'to be in pain' or 'to feel unwell' is incorrect.

Mistake: 저는 머리가 병들었어요.

Incorrect: I got sick my head.

Correct: 저는 머리가 아파요.

Correct: My head hurts.

Incorrect Conjugation: While '병들다' is generally regular in its basic conjugations (e.g., 병들었어요, 병들어요), learners might sometimes try to apply irregular verb patterns or use incorrect endings, especially when forming compound verbs or more complex sentence structures.

Mistake: 그녀는 갑자기 병들었.

Incorrect: She suddenly sick.

Correct: 그녀는 갑자기 병들었어요.

Correct: She suddenly got sick.

Overuse in Figurative Language: While '병들다' can be used metaphorically for things like societies or economies, learners might overuse it in situations where a more direct or less dramatic term would be appropriate. It's best to reserve its figurative use for contexts where a clear sense of decay or disease is implied.

Mistake: 그 회사는 돈이 없어서 병들었어요.

Incorrect: That company got sick because it had no money.

Better: 그 회사는 재정적으로 어려움을 겪고 있어요. (That company is experiencing financial difficulties.)

Better phrasing.

Using it for Minor Discomforts: '병들다' implies a more significant onset of illness than just feeling a little under the weather. Using it for very minor discomforts might sound overly dramatic. For mild cases, '몸이 좀 안 좋아요' (my-i jom an joh-ayo - I don't feel well) is more appropriate.

Mistake: 저는 오늘 아침에 약간 병들었어요.

Incorrect: I got slightly sick this morning.

Correct: 오늘 아침에 몸이 좀 안 좋았어요.

Correct: I didn't feel well this morning.

By distinguishing between '병들다' and '아프다', mastering common conjugations, and understanding its appropriate level of formality and intensity, you can use this verb effectively.

While 병들다 (byeongdeulda) is the primary verb for 'to become sick,' Korean offers several other words and phrases that convey similar meanings or related concepts. Understanding these nuances will enrich your vocabulary and help you express yourself more precisely.

아프다 (apeuda): Meaning: To be sick; to hurt.; Difference: This is the most common word for 'sick' or 'pain.' It describes the state of being unwell or experiencing physical discomfort. '병들다' focuses on the process of *falling* ill, while '아프다' describes the current condition.; Example: 배가 아파요. (Bae-ga apayo.) - My stomach hurts. (Here, '아프다' is used for pain.); Example: 감기에 아파요. (Gamgi-e apayo.) - I am sick with a cold. (Describes the state of being sick.)

몸이 안 좋다 (my-i an johda): Meaning: To not feel well; to be unwell.; Difference: This is a more general and often milder way to say you are not feeling well. It's less specific than '병들다' or '아프다' and can cover a range of minor discomforts or feeling generally unwell without a specific diagnosis.; Example: 오늘 몸이 좀 안 좋아서 일찍 집에 갈 거예요. (Oneul my-i jom an johaseo iljjik jibe gal geoyeyo.) - I'm not feeling well today, so I'm going home early.

편찮다 (pyeonchanta): Meaning: To be unwell (honorific).; Difference: This is the honorific form of '아프다'. You use it when speaking about someone older or of higher status who is sick. It's not used for oneself or for things.; Example: 할아버지께서 편찮으셔서 병원에 가셨어요. (Harabeoji-kkeseo pyeonchaneuseoseo byeongwon-e gasyeosseoyo.) - My grandfather is unwell, so he went to the hospital.

병에 걸리다 (byeong-e geollida): Meaning: To catch a disease; to contract an illness.; Difference: This phrase is very similar in meaning to '병들다' and is often interchangeable. '병들다' can sometimes imply a more gradual process or a state of being diseased, while '병에 걸리다' more directly means to contract a specific illness.; Example: 그는 결핵에 병에 걸렸다. (Geu-neun gyeolhaeg-e byeong-e geollyeotda.) - He contracted tuberculosis.; Example: 작년에 독감에 병들었어요. (Jangnyeon-e dokgam-e byeongdeureosseoyo.) - I got sick with the flu last year. (Both are acceptable here.)

쇠하다 (swaehada): Meaning: To decline; to wane; to become weak.; Difference: This word is often used metaphorically or for things that are naturally declining, like health in old age, power, or fortune. It's less about contracting a specific illness and more about a general weakening or deterioration.; Example: 그의 건강이 점점 쇠하고 있었다. (Geu-ui geongang-i jeomjeom swaehago isseotda.) - His health was gradually declining.

Choosing the right word depends on whether you want to emphasize the process of falling ill ('병들다'), the current state of being sick or in pain ('아프다'), general unwellness ('몸이 안 좋다'), or a more formal/honorific context ('편찮다'). '병에 걸리다' is a close synonym, while '쇠하다' is more about decline.

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

The verb '들다' is a very versatile suffix in Korean, used to form many verbs indicating a change of state or the beginning of an action. For example, '잠들다' means 'to fall asleep' (잠 - sleep + 들다), and '힘들다' means 'to be difficult' (힘 - strength + 들다, implying one enters a state of difficulty). '병들다' follows this common pattern of verb formation, making it intuitive for native speakers.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /bʲʌŋ.dɯl.da/

US /bʲʌŋ.dɯl.da/

Primary stress is usually on the first syllable: 병들다 (BYEONG-deul-da).

Rhymes With

들다 (deulda - to lift, to enter) 걸다 (geolda - to hang, to call) 물다 (mulda - to bite) 놀다 (nolda - to play) 달다 (dalda - to be sweet) 팔다 (palda - to sell) 살다 (salda - to live) 만들다 (mandeulda - to make)

Common Errors

Pronouncing 'ㅡ' (eu) as a short 'u' like in 'cup'. It's a more neutral, unrounded vowel.
Not clearly distinguishing the 'ㄹ' (l/r) sound at the end of the syllable before 'ㄷ'.
Adding an extra vowel sound after 'ㄹ' (e.g., '병들다-uh').

Difficulty Rating

Reading 2/5

The word '병들다' is a common verb related to health, making it relatively easy to understand in context. Its core meaning is straightforward. However, recognizing its figurative use or understanding its nuances in more complex sentences might require a higher level of comprehension.

Writing 2/5

Using '병들다' correctly in writing is generally straightforward for basic sentences. Learners might need practice with conjugations and distinguishing it from similar words like '아프다'. Figurative uses require more advanced vocabulary and contextual understanding.

Speaking 2/5

Speaking applications are similar to writing. Learners should practice using the correct conjugations and tenses. Distinguishing '병들다' from '아프다' is crucial for natural conversation.

Listening 2/5

In spoken Korean, '병들다' is frequently used. Understanding its meaning in context, especially when spoken quickly or with different intonations, is key. Recognizing the difference between '병들다' and '아프다' is important for comprehension.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

아프다 (to be sick, to hurt) 건강하다 (to be healthy) 몸 (body) 사람 (person) 동물 (animal) 식물 (plant) 날씨 (weather) 감기 (cold) 독감 (flu)

Learn Next

병에 걸리다 (to catch a disease) 낫다 (to recover) 회복하다 (to recover) 쇠약하다 (to be weak) 편찮다 (to be unwell - honorific)

Advanced

병폐 (pathology, ills) 만성 질환 (chronic disease) 전염병 (epidemic) 질병 (disease) 건강 관리 (health management)

Grammar to Know

Verb Conjugation: Present Tense (-어요/아요)

병들다 -> 병들어요 (to get sick)

Verb Conjugation: Past Tense (-었/았어요)

병들다 -> 병들었어요 (got sick)

Verb Conjugation: Future Tense (-ㄹ/을 거예요)

병들다 -> 병들 거예요 (will get sick)

Adjectival Form (Past Participle: -ㄴ/은)

병들다 -> 병든 (sick, diseased)

Conditional Clause: -(으)면

만약 당신이 병들면... (If you get sick...)

Examples by Level

아기가 아파요.

The baby is sick.

아프다 (to be sick) is used here for the state of being sick.

몸이 안 좋아요.

I don't feel well.

A general expression for feeling unwell.

개가 아파요.

The dog is sick.

아프다 can be used for animals too.

꽃이 시들어요.

The flower is wilting.

시들다 (to wilt) is used for plants, similar to becoming unhealthy.

저는 감기에 걸렸어요.

I caught a cold.

걸리다 (to catch) is used with diseases.

그는 약해요.

He is weak.

약하다 (to be weak) can imply ill health.

식물이 말라요.

The plant is drying up.

말르다 (to dry up) can indicate a plant is unhealthy.

기운이 없어요.

I have no energy.

Indicates a lack of vitality, often due to illness.

갑자기 몸이 안 좋아졌어요.

I suddenly started feeling unwell.

안 좋아지다 indicates a worsening condition.

날씨 때문에 병들기 쉬워요.

It's easy to get sick because of the weather.

병들기 쉬워요 - easy to get sick.

그는 폐렴에 걸렸어요.

He contracted pneumonia.

폐렴 (pneumonia) + 걸리다 (to catch).

농작물이 병충해로 병들었어요.

The crops became sick from pests and diseases.

병충해 (pests and diseases) + 병들다 (to get sick).

어머니께서 편찮으세요.

My mother is unwell.

편찮으세요 is the honorific for 'to be sick'.

차가운 물을 많이 마시면 배가 아파요.

If you drink a lot of cold water, your stomach hurts.

아프다 for stomach pain.

요즘 피곤해서 기운이 없어요.

I'm tired these days and have no energy.

피곤하다 (to be tired) + 기운이 없다 (to have no energy).

그 나무는 병든 것처럼 보여요.

That tree looks like it's diseased.

병든 (diseased) + 것처럼 보이다 (to look like).

과로로 인해 그의 건강이 급격히 병들었다.

His health rapidly deteriorated due to overwork.

과로 (overwork) + 급격히 (rapidly) + 병들었다 (got sick/deteriorated).

환경 오염 때문에 많은 생물들이 병들고 있다.

Many living things are becoming sick due to environmental pollution.

환경 오염 (environmental pollution) + 생물 (living things).

그의 연설은 사회의 부패를 병든 것으로 묘사했다.

His speech described society's corruption as diseased.

Metaphorical use: 사회의 부패 (society's corruption) + 병든 것 (diseased thing).

만약 당신이 병들면, 즉시 의사를 찾아야 합니다.

If you fall sick, you must see a doctor immediately.

만약 (if) + 병들면 (if you get sick) + 즉시 (immediately).

그는 희귀병에 걸려 고통받고 있다.

He is suffering from a rare disease.

희귀병 (rare disease) + 고통받다 (to suffer).

전염병이 확산되어 수많은 사람들이 병들었다.

The epidemic spread, and numerous people fell sick.

전염병 (epidemic) + 확산되다 (to spread) + 수많은 (numerous).

오래된 건물은 낡아서 병든 것처럼 보였다.

The old building looked like it had become diseased due to its age.

낡아서 (because it's old) + 병든 것처럼 보였다 (looked like it was diseased).

건강 관리를 소홀히 하면 쉽게 병들 수 있다.

If you neglect health management, you can easily get sick.

건강 관리 (health management) + 소홀히 하다 (to neglect) + 쉽게 (easily).

그의 심장마비는 오랜 기간 건강이 병들어 왔음을 시사한다.

His heart attack suggests his health had been deteriorating for a long time.

심장마비 (heart attack) + 오랜 기간 (long period) + 건강이 병들어 왔음 (health had been deteriorating) + 시사하다 (to suggest).

사회 구조의 근본적인 문제가 많은 사람들을 병들게 하고 있다.

Fundamental problems in the social structure are making many people sick.

사회 구조 (social structure) + 근본적인 문제 (fundamental problems) + 병들게 하다 (to make sick).

동물 보호 단체는 야생 동물들이 환경 오염으로 병들고 있다고 경고했다.

The animal protection group warned that wild animals are becoming sick due to environmental pollution.

동물 보호 단체 (animal protection group) + 야생 동물 (wild animals) + 경고하다 (to warn).

식량 부족으로 인해 지역 주민들이 영양실조로 병들기 시작했다.

Due to food shortages, local residents began to fall sick from malnutrition.

식량 부족 (food shortage) + 영양실조 (malnutrition) + 시작했다 (began).

그의 창작력은 깊은 슬픔과 고독 속에서 서서히 병들어 갔다.

His creativity slowly withered away amidst deep sorrow and loneliness.

창작력 (creativity) + 깊은 슬픔 (deep sorrow) + 고독 (loneliness) + 서서히 (slowly).

국가의 경제 시스템이 병들어 있다면, 국민들의 삶도 피폐해질 수밖에 없다.

If the nation's economic system is diseased, the people's lives are bound to become ruined.

경제 시스템 (economic system) + 피폐해지다 (to become ruined) + ~ㄹ 수밖에 없다 (cannot help but).

정신 건강에 대한 사회적 편견은 많은 이들이 병든 상태를 숨기게 만든다.

Social stigma regarding mental health makes many hide their diseased state.

정신 건강 (mental health) + 사회적 편견 (social stigma) + 숨기다 (to hide).

만성 질환은 서서히 신체 기능을 병들게 하여 삶의 질을 저하시킨다.

Chronic diseases slowly deteriorate bodily functions, lowering the quality of life.

만성 질환 (chronic diseases) + 신체 기능 (bodily functions) + 삶의 질 (quality of life) + 저하시키다 (to lower).

그의 철학적 사유는 당대의 사회적 병폐에 깊이 병들어 있었다.

His philosophical thought was deeply afflicted by the social ills of his time.

철학적 사유 (philosophical thought) + 당대 (his time) + 사회적 병폐 (social ills) + 깊이 병들어 있었다 (was deeply afflicted).

인간의 탐욕이 자연을 병들게 하고, 결국 인류 자신을 위협하는 결과를 초래했다.

Human greed has sickened nature, ultimately leading to consequences that threaten humanity itself.

인간의 탐욕 (human greed) + 자연 (nature) + 인류 자신 (humanity itself) + 위협하다 (to threaten) + 초래하다 (to lead to).

그 작품은 인간 내면의 고독과 소외가 어떻게 영혼을 병들게 하는지를 섬세하게 묘사했다.

The work delicately depicted how inner human loneliness and alienation sicken the soul.

인간 내면 (inner human) + 고독 (loneliness) + 소외 (alienation) + 영혼 (soul) + 섬세하게 묘사하다 (delicately depict).

정치적 부패와 권력 남용은 국가의 근간을 병들게 하는 심각한 질병이다.

Political corruption and abuse of power are serious diseases that sicken the foundation of a nation.

정치적 부패 (political corruption) + 권력 남용 (abuse of power) + 국가의 근간 (foundation of a nation) + 심각한 질병 (serious disease).

과학 기술의 발전이 인간의 정신을 병들게 할 수도 있다는 우려의 목소리가 높아지고 있다.

Voices of concern are rising that the advancement of science and technology could also sicken the human spirit.

과학 기술의 발전 (advancement of science and technology) + 정신 (spirit) + 우려의 목소리 (voices of concern) + 높아지다 (to rise).

그의 시는 산업화로 인해 파괴된 자연의 모습과 그로 인해 병들어가는 인간의 감정을 노래했다.

His poem sang of the destruction of nature due to industrialization and the human emotions that consequently became sick.

산업화 (industrialization) + 파괴되다 (to be destroyed) + 감정 (emotions) + 노래하다 (to sing/express).

역사적으로 볼 때, 사회적 불평등은 종종 공동체를 병들게 하는 주요 원인이었다.

Historically speaking, social inequality has often been a major cause of sickening communities.

역사적으로 볼 때 (historically speaking) + 사회적 불평등 (social inequality) + 공동체 (community) + 주요 원인 (major cause).

개인의 정신적 고통이 사회 전반의 분위기를 병들게 하는 악순환을 만들 수 있다.

Individual mental suffering can create a vicious cycle that sickens the overall atmosphere of society.

정신적 고통 (mental suffering) + 사회 전반 (society overall) + 분위기 (atmosphere) + 악순환 (vicious cycle).

그의 예술은 현대 문명의 병폐를 직시하며, 이를 통해 인간 존재의 근원적 고뇌를 탐구하고, 그 병든 심층을 파헤치고자 했다.

His art confronted the pathologies of modern civilization, through which he sought to explore the fundamental anguish of human existence and unearth its diseased depths.

현대 문명 (modern civilization) + 병폐 (pathologies/ills) + 직시하다 (to confront) + 근원적 고뇌 (fundamental anguish) + 심층 (depths) + 파헤치다 (to unearth).

탈산업화 시대의 도시들은 과거의 영광이 퇴색하고 산업 폐허가 늘어나면서, 공동체 의식마저 병들어가는 anomie 상태에 직면했다.

Post-industrial cities faced a state of anomie where the spirit of community itself was sickening as past glories faded and industrial ruins proliferated.

탈산업화 시대 (post-industrial era) + 퇴색하다 (to fade) + 산업 폐허 (industrial ruins) + 공동체 의식 (community spirit) + anomie (anomie) + 직면하다 (to face).

인간의 끊임없는 욕망과 물질주의는 지구 생태계를 병들게 할 뿐만 아니라, 인간 정신의 건강성마저 잠식해 들어갔다.

Human ceaseless desire and materialism not only sickened the Earth's ecosystem but also eroded the very health of the human spirit.

끊임없는 욕망 (ceaseless desire) + 물질주의 (materialism) + 지구 생태계 (Earth's ecosystem) + 잠식하다 (to erode/encroach).

그의 작품은 디지털 시대의 익명성과 피상적인 관계가 어떻게 인간의 진정한 정체성을 병들게 하고, 고립감을 심화시키는지에 대한 통렬한 비판이다.

His work is a scathing critique of how the anonymity and superficial relationships of the digital age sicken human true identity and deepen feelings of isolation.

디지털 시대 (digital age) + 익명성 (anonymity) + 피상적인 관계 (superficial relationships) + 진정한 정체성 (true identity) + 고립감 (feeling of isolation) + 심화시키다 (to deepen) + 통렬한 비판 (scathing critique).

사회 전반의 냉소주의와 허무주의는 젊은 세대의 희망과 이상을 병들게 하여, 그들의 미래를 암울하게 만들고 있다.

The pervasive cynicism and nihilism in society are sickening the hopes and ideals of the younger generation, casting a grim shadow over their future.

냉소주의 (cynicism) + 허무주의 (nihilism) + 젊은 세대 (younger generation) + 희망 (hope) + 이상 (ideals) + 암울하게 만들다 (to make grim/bleak).

인류가 직면한 기후 변화와 환경 파괴는 단순히 물리적인 재앙을 넘어, 인간의 윤리적 감수성마저 병들게 하는 전례 없는 위기이다.

The climate change and environmental destruction humanity faces are an unprecedented crisis that goes beyond mere physical disaster, sickening even human ethical sensitivity.

기후 변화 (climate change) + 환경 파괴 (environmental destruction) + 물리적인 재앙 (physical disaster) + 윤리적 감수성 (ethical sensitivity) + 전례 없는 위기 (unprecedented crisis).

그의 소설은 급격한 사회 변화 속에서 전통적 가치관이 붕괴되고, 인간 정신이 방향을 잃고 병들어가는 과정을 섬세하게 그려냈다.

His novel delicately depicted the process of traditional values collapsing amidst rapid social change, and the human spirit becoming lost and sickened.

급격한 사회 변화 (rapid social change) + 전통적 가치관 (traditional values) + 붕괴되다 (to collapse) + 방향을 잃다 (to lose one's way).

데이터 중심의 사고방식이 인간의 복잡한 감정과 관계를 단순화시키고, 결국에는 정서적 건강성을 병들게 할 위험이 있다.

The data-centric mindset risks oversimplifying complex human emotions and relationships, ultimately sickening emotional well-being.

데이터 중심 (data-centric) + 사고방식 (mindset) + 복잡한 감정 (complex emotions) + 정서적 건강성 (emotional well-being) + 위험 (risk).

Common Collocations

감기에 병들다

독감에 병들다

병들다 (사람, 동물, 식물)

몸이 병들다

마음이 병들다

사회/국가/시스템이 병들다

병들어서 아프다

병들기 시작하다

병들지 않다

병든

Common Phrases

병들었어요.

— I/He/She/It got sick.

아이가 열이 나서 병들었어요. (The child had a fever and got sick.)

병들기 쉬워요.

— It's easy to get sick.

환절기에는 병들기 쉬워요. (It's easy to get sick during the change of seasons.)

병들지 않게

— So as not to get sick.

건강 관리를 잘 해서 병들지 않게 해야 해요. (You should manage your health well so you don't get sick.)

병들고 있다.

— Is getting sick / becoming diseased.

오래된 나무가 병들고 있어요. (The old tree is becoming diseased.)

병든

— Sick / Diseased (adjective form).

병든 동물을 발견했어요. (I found a sick animal.)

병들면

— If (someone/something) gets sick.

만약 제가 병들면, 병원에 갈 거예요. (If I get sick, I will go to the hospital.)

병들기 시작했다.

— Started to get sick.

식물들이 물 부족으로 병들기 시작했다. (The plants started to get sick due to lack of water.)

병들었다.

— Got sick / became diseased (past tense).

그는 심한 독감에 병들었다. (He got very sick with the flu.)

병들지 않다.

— Not get sick.

나는 운이 좋아서 병들지 않았다. (I was lucky and didn't get sick.)

병들게 하다.

— To make (someone/something) sick.

환경 오염이 우리를 병들게 하고 있다. (Environmental pollution is making us sick.)

Often Confused With

병들다 vs 아프다

'병들다' means to become sick, focusing on the process of falling ill. '아프다' means to be sick or to hurt, describing the current state of discomfort or pain. You '병들다' and then you '아프다'.

병들다 vs 낫다

'병들다' means to become sick. '낫다' means to recover or get better, which is the opposite process.

병들다 vs 건강하다

'병들다' describes the state of being unwell. '건강하다' means to be healthy, the opposite state.

Idioms & Expressions

"마음이 병들다"

— To have a sick heart; to be emotionally distressed or mentally unwell. This idiom uses '병들다' metaphorically to describe a state of emotional or psychological suffering.

그녀는 오랜 슬픔 때문에 마음이 병들었다.

Literary/Figurative

"사회가 병들다"

— Society is sick; society is corrupted or unhealthy. This idiom applies '병들다' to a collective entity, suggesting deep-seated systemic problems.

정치적 부패로 인해 사회가 병들었다는 비판이 많다.

Figurative/Critical

"몸이 병든 것 같다"

— To feel as if one's body is sick or falling apart. It's a strong expression of feeling very unwell, often implying a more serious condition than just a minor cold.

밤새 일했더니 몸이 병든 것 같다.

Emphatic/Figurative

"병든 닭처럼"

— Like a sick chicken; in a weak, listless, or pathetic state. This simile describes someone who is extremely weak, unwell, or lacking energy.

그는 시험에 떨어지고 병든 닭처럼 기운이 없었다.

Informal/Descriptive

"병든 씨앗"

— Diseased seed; a person or thing with inherent flaws or potential for corruption that will lead to negative outcomes.

그는 어릴 때부터 병든 씨앗 같았다.

Figurative/Critical

"병든 나무"

— Diseased tree; something or someone that is fundamentally flawed, unhealthy, or corrupted and cannot be easily fixed.

그 조직은 너무 오래되어 병든 나무와 같았다.

Figurative/Descriptive

"병든 시대"

— A sick era; a time period characterized by widespread corruption, moral decay, or societal problems.

작가들은 종종 병든 시대를 고발하는 작품을 쓴다.

Literary/Critical

"병든 생각"

— Sick thoughts; unhealthy, perverse, or harmful ideas or obsessions.

그는 병든 생각을 떨쳐내지 못했다.

Figurative/Psychological

"병든 영혼"

— Sick soul; a person who is morally corrupt, emotionally tormented, or spiritually damaged.

그 인물은 병든 영혼을 가진 것으로 묘사되었다.

Literary/Figurative

"병든 }"

— This is an incomplete idiom or phrase. If you meant a specific phrase, please provide the full idiom.

Easily Confused

병들다 vs 아프다

Both words relate to illness.

'병들다' signifies the onset or process of becoming sick, while '아프다' describes the current condition of being sick or experiencing pain. You might '병들다' (fall sick) and then feel '아프다' (hurt or be sick).

날씨가 추워서 병들었어요. (It got cold, so I fell sick.) -> 그래서 지금 몸이 아파요. (So now my body hurts/I am sick.)

병들다 vs 낫다

Both are related to health states.

'병들다' is to become sick, whereas '낫다' is to recover from sickness or to heal. They are antonymous in terms of the health trajectory.

독감에 병들었지만, 일주일 후에 나았어요. (I fell sick with the flu, but I recovered after a week.)

병들다 vs 병에 걸리다

Very similar meaning.

'병들다' can sometimes imply a more gradual deterioration or a state of being diseased, especially metaphorically. '병에 걸리다' more directly means to contract a specific illness or disease.

그는 결핵에 병에 걸렸다. (He contracted tuberculosis.) vs. 그의 건강이 서서히 병들었다. (His health gradually deteriorated.)

병들다 vs 쇠약하다

Both imply a negative state of being.

'병들다' refers to the onset of a specific illness. '쇠약하다' means to be weak or debilitated, often due to age, chronic conditions, or prolonged illness, describing a state of general weakness rather than the initial act of getting sick.

오랜 투병으로 인해 몸이 쇠약해졌지만, 완전히 병든 것은 아니다. (Due to the long illness, his body became debilitated, but he hasn't completely fallen sick [in the sense of contracting a new illness].)

병들다 vs 건강하다

They are opposites.

'병들다' describes the process of losing health, while '건강하다' describes the state of having good health. They represent opposite ends of the health spectrum.

병들지 않으려면 건강하게 살아야 한다. (To not get sick, one must live healthily.)

Sentence Patterns

Subject + [Reason] + 병들다 (-었어요/-어요)

날씨가 추워서 아이가 병들었어요.

Subject + [Illness] + 에 + 병들다 (-었어요/-어요)

그는 감기에 병들었어요.

Subject + [Condition] + 병들기 + 쉽다

피곤하면 병들기 쉬워요.

Subject + [Cause] + 때문에 + 병들다 (-었어요/-었다)

과식 때문에 배가 병들었다.

Subject + [Circumstance] + -(으)면 + 병들다

계속 야근하면 몸이 병들 수 있다.

Subject + [Figurative Cause] + 으로 + 병들다 (-었어요/-었다)

부패로 인해 사회가 병들었다.

Subject + [Figurative Subject] + -을/를 병들게 하다

탐욕이 자연을 병들게 한다.

Subject + [Figurative State] + 처럼 + 병들다

그의 마음은 죽은 것처럼 병들었다.

Word Family

Nouns

병 disease, illness

질병 disease, illness (more formal)

병자 sick person, patient

Verbs

병들다 to become sick

병나다 to get sick (colloquial)

병 간호하다 to nurse (a sick person)

Adjectives

병든 sick, diseased (past participle)

병적인 pathological, morbid

아프다 to be sick, to hurt

건강하다 to be healthy

낫다 to recover, to heal

쇠약하다 to be weak, debilitated

병석 sickbed

How to Use It

frequency

High

Common Mistakes

Using '병들다' when meaning 'to hurt' or 'to be in pain'. → 아프다
'병들다' means to become sick or fall ill, emphasizing the process. '아프다' means to be sick or to hurt, describing the current state of discomfort. For example, 'My head hurts' is '머리가 아파요', not '머리가 병들었어요'.
Incorrect conjugation, e.g., forgetting sentence endings. → 병들었어요 / 병들었습니다
Korean verbs require appropriate sentence endings. '병들었어요' is polite present/past tense, and '병들었습니다' is formal past tense. Simply saying '병들었' is incomplete.
Confusing '병들다' with its opposite '낫다'. → 낫다
'병들다' means to get sick, while '낫다' means to recover or get better. They represent opposite processes in health.
Overusing '병들다' metaphorically in casual conversation. → 몸이 안 좋다 / 피곤하다
While '병들다' can be used metaphorically, for mild discomfort or general tiredness, phrases like '몸이 안 좋다' (not feeling well) or '피곤하다' (to be tired) are more appropriate and less dramatic.
Using '병들다' for inanimate objects without a clear metaphorical context. → 고장 나다 / 망가지다
For machines or objects that stop working, use '고장 나다' (to break down) or '망가지다' (to be ruined/broken). '병들다' is generally reserved for living things or metaphorical health.

Tips

Distinguish from '아프다'

Remember that '병들다' means to become sick, focusing on the process of falling ill. '아프다' means to be sick or to hurt, describing the current state. Use '병들다' for the onset and '아프다' for the symptoms or ongoing discomfort.

Figurative Applications

'병들다' can be used metaphorically for systems, societies, or even abstract concepts that are unhealthy or corrupted. Think of it as something 'diseased' or 'malfunctioning' at its core.

Clear Syllables

Pay attention to pronouncing each syllable clearly, especially the 'ㅡ' vowel and the final 'ㄹ' sound. Avoid adding extra sounds or blurring the transitions between consonants and vowels.

Word Family

Learn related words like '병' (disease), '병자' (patient), and '병든' (sick/diseased) to build a stronger understanding of the concept.

Recognize Real-World Use

Listen for '병들다' in news reports about health crises, in conversations about family health, or in literature discussing societal issues. This will help you understand its various applications.

Sentence Building

Construct sentences using '병들다' in different tenses (past, present, future) and contexts (literal and figurative). This active practice solidifies your understanding.

Synonym Nuances

Compare '병들다' with '병에 걸리다' (to catch a disease). While similar, '병들다' can sometimes imply a more gradual decline or a state of being diseased.

Opposite Concepts

Understand the antonyms like '낫다' (to recover) and '건강하다' (to be healthy) to grasp the full spectrum of health-related vocabulary.

Visual Mnemonics

Create vivid mental images, like a wilting flower or a sick ogre, to associate the word '병들다' with its meaning. This visual connection aids recall.

Cultural Significance

Recognize the cultural importance of health in Korea. '병들다' is a word used frequently to express concern and discuss well-being, reflecting societal values.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Imagine a 'B'ig 'Y'ellow 'ONG'le (like an ogre) who is 'DEUL' (dull) and 'DA' (daft) because he is sick. He looks like a sick, dull ogre. '병들다' - the sick ogre.

Visual Association

Picture a wilting flower with a sad face, labeled '병들다'. Or, imagine a person coughing and shivering, surrounded by 'X' marks, with the word '병들다' written above them.

Word Web

Disease Illness Sickness Malady Ailment Condition Pathology Frail Weak Unwell Sickly Wither Decline Infection Contagion

Challenge

Try to use '병들다' in three different sentences today, describing different scenarios: one about a person, one about an animal or plant, and one using it metaphorically. For example: 'My cat got sick.' 'The tree is diseased.' 'The system has become sick.'

Word Origin

The verb '병들다' is a combination of the noun '병' (byeong), meaning 'disease' or 'illness', and the verb '들다' (deulda), which in this context acts as a suffix indicating the process of entering or becoming something. Thus, '병들다' literally means 'to enter disease' or 'to become diseased'.

Original meaning: To enter into a state of disease.

Koreanic

Cultural Context

When discussing illness, especially serious ones, it's important to be sensitive. While '병들다' is a common verb, avoid using it casually for minor discomforts. In formal or medical contexts, more specific terms might be preferred. When referring to someone's illness, using honorifics (like 편찮다 for elders) shows respect.

In English-speaking cultures, we use phrases like 'fall ill,' 'get sick,' 'contract a disease,' or 'become diseased.' The Korean '병들다' aligns closely with 'fall ill' or 'become diseased' in emphasizing the transition into sickness.

In Korean literature, characters often '병들다' due to emotional turmoil or societal pressures, highlighting the connection between mental and physical health. News reports frequently use '병들다' when discussing epidemics, public health crises, or the impact of environmental issues on living organisms. Traditional Korean proverbs often touch upon the causes and consequences of '병들다', reflecting a long-standing awareness of health and illness.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Talking about personal health.

몸이 좀 안 좋아요.
감기에 병들었어요.
몸이 쇠약해졌어요.
얼른 나았으면 좋겠어요.

Discussing animal or plant health.

우리 강아지가 병들었어요.
이 식물은 병든 것 같아요.
병든 나무를 잘라내야 해요.

News reports on health or environment.

전염병이 확산되어 많은 사람들이 병들었다.
환경 오염으로 인해 생태계가 병들고 있다.

Figurative language about societal issues.

부패로 인해 사회가 병들었다.
그의 마음은 슬픔으로 병들었다.

Medical consultations or advice.

만약 병들면 즉시 의사를 찾으세요.
건강 관리를 잘 해서 병들지 않도록 하세요.

Conversation Starters

"요즘 날씨가 변덕스러운데, 혹시 감기에 병들지는 않으셨어요?"

"우리 강아지가 며칠 전부터 기운이 없는데, 혹시 병든 걸까요?"

"뉴스에서 환경 오염 때문에 많은 식물들이 병들고 있다고 하던데, 정말 걱정이에요."

"건강 관리를 잘 하는 편이세요? 저는 좀 병들기 쉬운 체질이라 늘 신경 써요."

"혹시 전에 심하게 아팠던 경험이 있으신가요? 저는 그때 정말 몸이 병든 것 같았어요."

Journal Prompts

Describe a time when you or someone you know became sick (병들다). What were the symptoms, and how did you feel?

Reflect on the importance of health. How do you try to prevent yourself from getting sick (병들지 않도록)?

Think about a time when something felt 'diseased' or unhealthy, not physically, but metaphorically (e.g., a situation, a relationship, a system). How would you describe it using the concept of '병들다'?

Imagine you are a doctor or a caretaker. Write a short entry about a patient or a sick animal/plant you are looking after. Use the verb '병들다' appropriately.

Consider the statement: 'Prevention is better than cure.' How does this apply to your understanding of '병들다' and staying healthy?

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

'병들다' (byeongdeulda) means to become sick or fall ill, emphasizing the process of transitioning from a healthy state to an unhealthy one. '아프다' (apeuda) means to be sick or to hurt, describing the current state of feeling unwell or experiencing pain. You might '병들다' first, and then feel '아프다'.

Yes, '병들다' can be used for animals and plants when they become diseased. It can also be used metaphorically to describe systems, organizations, or even abstract concepts that are unhealthy or corrupted, such as '사회가 병들다' (society is sick).

The past tense of '병들다' is '병들었어요' (byeongdeureosseoyo) in polite speech and '병들었다' (byeongdeureotda) in plain form. For example, '그는 어제 병들었어요.' (He got sick yesterday.)

The adjective form is '병든' (byeongdeun), which means 'sick' or 'diseased'. It is used to modify nouns. For example, '병든 새' (a sick bird) or '병든 나무' (a diseased tree).

'병들다' itself is a neutral verb. Its formality depends on the sentence ending used. For example, '병들었어요' is polite and common in everyday conversation, while '병들었습니다' is more formal. The plain form '병들다' is used in writing or in very informal speech.

A common mistake is confusing it with '아프다'. Remember, '병들다' is about *becoming* sick, while '아프다' is about *being* sick or hurting. Also, ensure correct conjugation, like adding appropriate sentence endings.

Yes, '병에 걸리다' (byeong-e geollida) is very similar and often interchangeable, meaning 'to catch a disease'. '몸이 안 좋다' (my-i an johda) is a more general phrase for 'not feeling well'.

Yes, it can be used metaphorically. For example, '부패로 인해 국가 경제가 병들었다' (The national economy has become sick due to corruption) is a valid metaphorical usage.

The opposite of '병들다' (to become sick) is '낫다' (natda - to recover, to heal) or '건강하다' (geonganghada - to be healthy).

Use '병들다' when you want to emphasize the transition into sickness, the onset of an illness, or a state of being diseased. '아프다' is used more broadly for pain or the general state of being sick.