굶다
굶다 in 30 Seconds
- Meaning: To starve or skip a meal.
- Usage: Common for skipping meals, less common but serious for starving.
- Key Context: Daily life (skipping meals), news (starvation).
- Related: 배고프다 (to be hungry).
The Korean verb 굶다 (geumda) has two primary meanings, both related to the absence of food. The first and more literal meaning is 'to starve' or 'to suffer from hunger.' This refers to a severe and prolonged lack of food, often in situations of extreme hardship, famine, or due to serious illness. It carries a strong sense of suffering and desperation.
The second, and more common, meaning in everyday conversation is 'to skip a meal' or 'to go without eating for a period.' This is a voluntary action, often done for reasons like dieting, being too busy, or simply not feeling hungry. While less severe than starving, it still implies a deliberate decision to abstain from food. Understanding the context is crucial to differentiate between these two meanings.
In everyday Korean life, you'll often hear 굶다 used in the context of skipping meals. For instance, someone might say they skipped breakfast because they woke up late or skipped lunch because they had a big dinner planned. It's a common way to express that you haven't eaten for a while. The more severe meaning of starving is usually reserved for more dire circumstances or in news reports about humanitarian crises.
Consider the nuance: If someone says '아침을 굶었어요' (achim-eul geum-eoss-eoyo), it means they skipped breakfast. If you hear about a community '굶주리고 있다' (gumjurigo itda - a related noun form meaning 'suffering from hunger'), it implies a much more serious situation of starvation. The verb 굶다 itself can bridge these meanings depending on the surrounding words and the overall context.
- Literal Meaning
- To starve; to suffer from severe hunger.
- Figurative/Common Meaning
- To skip a meal; to go without eating for a period.
오늘 점심을 굶었어요.
극심한 가뭄으로 사람들이 굶고 있습니다.
Using 굶다 (geumda) in sentences is straightforward, but remember to pay attention to the context to convey the intended meaning. The verb typically takes an object marked with the object particle '을/를' (eul/reul) when referring to a specific meal being skipped, or it can be used intransitively.
Skipping a Meal: When you want to say you skipped a particular meal, you'll often include the meal name followed by the object particle. For example:
- Sentence Structure
- [Meal Name] + 을/를 + 굶다
바빠서 아침을 굶었어요.
다이어트 때문에 점심을 굶을
Going Without Food for a Period: You can also use 굶다 more generally to indicate not eating for a while, often implying a longer duration than just one skipped meal.
- Sentence Structure
- 하루 종일 + 굶다 (to go without eating all day)
어제는 너무 바빠서 거의 하루 종일 굶었어요.
The Severe Meaning (Starving): This usage is less common in everyday conversation and often appears in news or descriptions of hardship. It's usually accompanied by words that emphasize severity.
- Sentence Structure
- [Subject] + [Circumstance] + 굶다
전쟁 때문에 많은 사람들이 굶고
Conjugation Notes: Remember that 굶다 is a verb and will conjugate according to tense and politeness levels. For example, in the present tense, informal polite form, it becomes '굶어요' (geum-eoyo). In the past tense, informal polite, it's '굶었어요' (geum-eoss-eoyo). In the future tense, it can be '굶을 거예요' (geum-eul geoyeyo).
You'll encounter the verb 굶다 (geumda) in a variety of everyday situations and media in Korea. Its frequency and the nuance it carries depend heavily on the context.
Daily Conversations: This is where you'll hear the most common meaning: skipping meals. Friends might ask each other:
- Example Dialogue
- A: 오늘 아침 안 먹었어? (Did you not eat breakfast today?)
B: 응, 너무 늦게 일어나서 아침을 굶었어. (Yeah, I woke up too late, so I skipped breakfast.)
Or perhaps when discussing future plans:
저녁에 많이 먹을 거니까 점심은 굶어야
Dieting and Health Discussions: People trying to lose weight or discussing health regimens might use 굶다 to describe their eating habits, though often with a disclaimer that it's not healthy.
- Example Sentence
- 무리하게 굶는 것은 건강에 좋지 않아요.
- Excessively starving yourself (skipping meals) is not good for your health.
News and Documentaries: The more severe meaning of 'starving' is often found in news reports about natural disasters, famines, or humanitarian crises. You might hear phrases like:
난민들이 식량 부족으로 굶주리고
Note that in this context, the related noun form '굶주림' (gumjurim - hunger, starvation) or the verb '굶주리다' (gumjurida - to be hungry, to starve) might be used more frequently to emphasize the severity.
Movies and Dramas: You might see characters in fictional works who are forced to 굶다 due to poverty or difficult circumstances, or characters who intentionally skip meals for dramatic effect (e.g., a hunger strike).
Learners of Korean might make a few common mistakes when using the verb 굶다 (geumda). These often stem from overgeneralization or not fully grasping the contextual nuances.
1. Confusing 'Skipping a Meal' with 'Being Hungry':
While skipping a meal often leads to hunger, 굶다 specifically refers to the act of not eating. The feeling of hunger is described by the adjective '배고프다' (baegopeuda). Using 굶다 when you simply mean 'I am hungry' is incorrect.
- Incorrect Usage
- 저는 배가 굶어요.
- (Incorrect: I am starving/skipping meals.)
- Correct Usage
- 저는 배가 고파요.
- (Correct: I am hungry.)
- 어제 저녁을 굶었어요.
- (Correct: I skipped dinner yesterday.)
2. Overusing the Severe Meaning:
While 굶다 can mean 'to starve,' this is a very strong and serious implication. Using it casually to describe a day of light eating or a missed snack can sound overly dramatic or even insensitive. In most everyday situations, the meaning is simply 'to skip a meal.'
Mistake: 오늘 간식을 굶었어요.
A more natural way to express skipping a snack would be '간식을 안 먹었어요' (I didn't eat a snack).
3. Incorrect Particles:
When specifying which meal was skipped, ensure you use the correct object particle '을/를' after the meal name.
- Incorrect Usage
- 점심 굶었어요.
- Correct Usage
- 점심을 굶었어요.
4. Forgetting Conjugation:
Like all Korean verbs, 굶다 needs to be conjugated correctly for tense and politeness. Forgetting to conjugate or using the wrong conjugation can lead to grammatical errors.
While 굶다 (geumda) is a useful verb, there are other words and phrases that express similar or related concepts, each with its own nuances in meaning and usage.
- 1. 굶주리다 (gumjurida) - To be hungry; To starve
- This verb is closely related to 굶다 but often carries a stronger sense of suffering from hunger, closer to the literal meaning of 'to starve.' It can describe a prolonged state of hunger.
- Comparison: 굶다 can be used for skipping a single meal, while 굶주리다 implies a more desperate or chronic state of hunger.
- Example: 아이들이 굶주리고 있다. (The children are starving.)
- 2. 굶주림 (gumjurim) - Hunger; Starvation (Noun)
- This is the noun form of '굶주리다,' referring to the state of hunger or starvation itself. It's used to talk about the condition.
- Comparison: 굶다 is the action of not eating, while 굶주림 is the condition of suffering from hunger.
- Example: 심각한 굶주림이 발생했다. (Serious starvation occurred.)
- 3. 굶기다 (gumgida) - To make someone starve; To let someone go hungry (Causative Verb)
- This is the causative form of 굶다. It means to intentionally cause someone else to go hungry or starve.
- Comparison: 굶다 is acting on oneself (or generally not eating), while 굶기다 is acting on another person.
- Example: 부모는 아이들을 굶기지 않으려고 노력했다. (The parents tried not to let their children go hungry.)
- 4. 식사를 거르다 (siksa-reul georeuda) - To skip a meal
- This is a more descriptive and perhaps slightly softer way to say 'to skip a meal.' '거르다' means to skip or omit.
- Comparison: 굶다 is a single verb, while '식사를 거르다' is a verb phrase. Both are commonly used for skipping meals, but 굶다 can sometimes imply a slightly longer or more deliberate omission.
- Example: 너무 바빠서 점심 식사를 거르
I skipped lunch because I was too busy.
- 5. 굶다 (geumda) vs. 배고프다 (baegopeuda)
- As mentioned in common mistakes, '배고프다' means 'to be hungry' (a state of feeling). 굶다 means 'to skip a meal' or 'to starve' (an action or a severe state).
- Example: 아침을 굶었더니 배가 고프다. (Because I skipped breakfast, I am hungry.)
How Formal Is It?
Fun Fact
Interestingly, the related word '굶주리다' (gumjurida), which also means to starve, likely shares a similar root but emphasizes the suffering aspect more strongly. The distinction between '굶다' (often skipping meals) and '굶주리다' (serious starvation) developed over time.
Pronunciation Guide
- Pronouncing 'g' as 'k': Ensure the initial sound is voiced ('g' not 'k').
- Incorrect vowel sound: The 'u' is short, like in 'book,' not long like in 'food.'
- Adding an extra sound: Avoid adding an 'n' sound after 'm' (e.g., 'goom-n-dah').
Difficulty Rating
CEFR A2 level. The word itself is common, but understanding the nuance between 'starving' and 'skipping a meal' requires contextual awareness. Recognizing related words like '굶주리다' adds complexity.
What to Learn Next
Prerequisites
Learn Next
Advanced
Grammar to Know
Object Particles (을/를)
When specifying the meal being skipped, use the object particle: 아침을 굶었어요.
Verb Conjugation (Past Tense)
The past tense of 굶다 is 굶었- (geum-eoss-). So, 'I skipped' is 굶었어요 (geum-eoss-eoyo).
Connective Endings (-고, -어서/아서)
바빠서 아침을 굶고 나왔어요. (I skipped breakfast and came out because I was busy.)
Nominalization (-는 것)
굶는 것은 건강에 좋지 않아요. (Skipping meals is not good for health.)
Causative Verbs (-기다)
아이들을 굶기지 마세요. (Don't let the children starve.)
Examples by Level
밥을 굶었어요.
I skipped a meal.
Past tense of 굶다. Object particle 을 used with 밥 (meal/rice).
점심 굶을 거예요.
I will skip lunch.
Future tense of 굶다. Object particle 을 used with 점심 (lunch).
아침 안 먹었어요.
I didn't eat breakfast.
Simple past tense negation of 먹다 (to eat). Similar meaning to skipping breakfast.
배고파요.
I am hungry.
Adjective describing the feeling of hunger, not the act of skipping meals.
오늘 굶었어요.
I skipped eating today.
General statement about not eating for the day.
저녁 굶을까?
Should I skip dinner?
Suggestive question using the future tense form of 굶다.
밥 안 먹었어.
I didn't eat.
Informal negation of eating.
굶으면 안 돼요.
You shouldn't skip meals.
Expressing prohibition or advice against skipping meals.
다이어트 때문에 점심을 굶는 편이에요.
I tend to skip lunch because of dieting.
Using '는 편이다' (tend to) with the verb stem of 굶다.
너무 바빠서 아침을 굶고 나왔어요.
I skipped breakfast and came out because I was too busy.
Using the connective form '-고' to link two actions.
어제 저녁을 굶었더니 오늘 아침에 배가 너무 고팠어요.
I skipped dinner yesterday, so I was very hungry this morning.
Using the connective form '-었더니' (because I did X, Y happened).
간단하게 먹으려고 점심을 굶기로 했어요.
I decided to skip lunch to eat lightly.
Using '-기로 하다' (to decide to do).
학생들은 종종 점심을 굶기도 합니다.
Students often skip lunch too.
Using '-기도 하다' (sometimes do/also do).
굶는 것보다 조금이라도 먹는 게 나아요.
It's better to eat even a little than to starve (skip meals).
Using the '-는 것보다' (than doing X) structure.
식사를 거르지 마세요.
Please don't skip meals.
Using the imperative form of '식사를 거르다' (to skip a meal).
오늘 하루 종일 굶었어요.
I skipped eating all day today.
Expressing not eating for an entire day.
무리하게 굶는 것은 건강에 좋지 않다는 것을 알아요.
I know that starving yourself excessively is not good for your health.
Using '-다는 것을 알다' (to know that...).
시험 기간에는 공부하느라 식사를 자주 굶게 돼요.
During exam periods, I often end up skipping meals because I'm studying.
Using '-게 되다' (to end up doing).
그는 돈이 없어서 며칠 동안 굶어야 했다.
He had to starve for several days because he had no money.
Using '-어야 했다' (had to do).
일부 지역에서는 심각한 식량난으로 사람들이 굶주리고 있습니다.
In some regions, people are starving due to severe food shortages.
Using the related verb 굶주리다 (to starve) with a noun phrase indicating cause.
굶주린 경험이 있는 사람들은 음식의 소중함을 더 잘 압니다.
People who have experienced starvation know the value of food better.
Using the past participle form '-ㄴ' with 굶주리다 as an adjective modifier.
다이어트를 위해 굶는 대신 건강한 식단을 유지하려고 노력 중입니다.
Instead of starving for a diet, I am trying to maintain a healthy diet.
Using '-는 대신' (instead of).
굶기지 않으려면 미리 식량을 확보해야 합니다.
To avoid making people starve, food must be secured in advance.
Using the causative verb 굶기다 in a negative purpose clause.
그는 금식 기도를 위해 의도적으로 굶고 있습니다.
He is intentionally fasting (skipping meals) for prayer.
Describing intentional abstention from food for a specific reason.
극단적인 다이어트 방법으로 음식을 굶는 것은 신체에 큰 부담을 줄 수 있습니다.
Skipping meals as an extreme dieting method can put a great burden on the body.
Using '-는 것은' as a nominalized clause acting as the subject.
만성적인 영양 부족으로 인해 많은 아이들이 굶주림에 시달리고 있다.
Many children are suffering from starvation due to chronic malnutrition.
Using '시달리다' (to suffer from) with starvation.
굶주린 사람들을 돕기 위한 국제적인 지원이 절실히 필요합니다.
International aid to help starving people is desperately needed.
Using '절실히 필요하다' (to be desperately needed).
그는 과거에 굶었던 경험 때문에 음식의 소중함을 누구보다 잘 알고 있다.
Due to his past experience of starving, he knows the value of food better than anyone.
Using '-기 때문에' (because of) and '-보다' (than) for comparison.
의도적으로 굶기는 것은 비윤리적인 행위로 간주될 수 있습니다.
Intentionally causing someone to starve can be considered an unethical act.
Using the causative verb 굶기다 and '-로 간주되다' (to be considered as).
정치적 시위의 수단으로 굶는 것은 효과적일 수도 있지만, 건강을 해칠 위험이 있습니다.
Fasting (skipping meals) as a means of political protest can be effective, but it carries the risk of harming one's health.
Using '-ㄹ 수도 있다' (can be/may be) and '-ㄹ 위험이 있다' (there is a risk of).
기근으로 인해 수많은 생명이 굶주림으로 희생되었습니다.
Countless lives were lost to starvation due to famine.
Using '희생되다' (to be sacrificed/lost).
그는 굶주린 아이들에게 음식을 나눠주며 희망을 주었습니다.
He gave hope by sharing food with starving children.
Using the verb '나눠주다' (to share/distribute).
무분별하게 음식을 굶는 행위는 단기적인 체중 감량 효과를 가져올지라도 장기적으로는 신진대사에 악영향을 미칩니다.
Although the act of indiscriminately skipping meals may bring short-term weight loss effects, it negatively impacts metabolism in the long run.
Using '-ㄹ지라도' (even though/although) and '-에 악영향을 미치다' (to negatively affect).
역사적으로 볼 때, 굶주림은 종종 사회적 불안과 정치적 격변의 주요 원인이 되어왔습니다.
Historically, starvation has often been a major cause of social unrest and political upheaval.
Using '주요 원인이 되다' (to become a major cause).
난민 캠프에서 굶주림으로 인한 질병이 확산되는 것을 막기 위해 긴급 구호 활동이 이루어지고 있습니다.
Emergency relief activities are being carried out in refugee camps to prevent the spread of diseases caused by starvation.
Using '확산되는 것을 막다' (to prevent the spread of) and '이루어지다' (to be carried out).
그는 자신의 신념을 지키기 위해 굶기를 불사하며 단식 투쟁을 벌였습니다.
He engaged in a hunger strike, risking starvation to uphold his beliefs.
Using '-기를 불사하다' (to risk/brave doing X) and '단식 투쟁' (hunger strike).
식량 배급이 중단되면서, 오랫동안 굶주렸던 주민들은 절망에 빠졌습니다.
As food distribution was suspended, residents who had long been starving fell into despair.
Using '-면서' (as/while) and '절망에 빠지다' (to fall into despair).
아이들에게 굶기지 않기 위한 부모의 헌신은 그 어떤 희생도 감수하게 만듭니다.
A parent's dedication to not let their children starve makes them endure any sacrifice.
Using '헌신' (dedication) and '희생을 감수하다' (to endure sacrifice).
기아 퇴치를 위한 국제 사회의 노력에도 불구하고, 여전히 많은 지역에서 굶주림이 근절되지 않고 있습니다.
Despite the international community's efforts to eradicate hunger, starvation still persists in many regions.
Using '기아 퇴치' (eradication of hunger) and '에도 불구하고' (despite).
그는 굶주림의 고통을 직접 겪었기에, 타인의 고통에 깊이 공감하는 능력을 지니고 있습니다.
Having personally experienced the pain of starvation, he possesses the ability to deeply empathize with the suffering of others.
Using '-기에' (because/since) and '공감하는 능력' (ability to empathize).
체중 감량을 목적으로 한 극단적인 금식은 신체의 항상성 유지 기능을 교란시켜, 영양소 결핍 및 대사 불균형과 같은 치명적인 결과를 초래할 수 있습니다.
Extreme fasting for the purpose of weight loss disrupts the body's homeostasis maintenance function, potentially leading to fatal consequences such as nutrient deficiency and metabolic imbalance.
Utilizing advanced medical and scientific terminology.
역사적 기록들은 기근 시기에 굶주림이 야기한 사회적 혼란, 이주, 그리고 급격한 인구 변동에 대한 참혹한 증언들을 담고 있습니다.
Historical records contain harrowing testimonies of social chaos, migration, and rapid demographic shifts caused by starvation during times of famine.
Employing sophisticated vocabulary and sentence structure.
국제기구들은 굶주림으로 인해 고통받는 인구 집단에 대한 인도적 지원을 확대하기 위해 다각적인 노력을 기울이고 있으나, 지정학적 갈등과 자원 부족이 그 효과를 제약하고 있습니다.
International organizations are making multifaceted efforts to expand humanitarian aid to populations suffering from starvation, but geopolitical conflicts and resource scarcity are limiting their effectiveness.
Using complex clauses and nuanced expressions of limitation.
그의 소설은 굶주림의 극한 상황에 내몰린 인간 군상의 생존 본능과 도덕적 딜레마를 심도 있게 탐구하며 독자들에게 깊은 성찰을 안겨줍니다.
His novel profoundly explores the survival instincts and moral dilemmas of various human characters pushed to the extreme circumstances of starvation, offering readers deep reflection.
Employing literary and philosophical vocabulary.
정치적 억압에 항거하는 수단으로서의 단식 투쟁은, 굶주림이라는 극한의 고통을 통해 사회적 경각심을 일깨우려는 의도를 내포하고 있습니다.
Hunger strikes as a means of resisting political oppression inherently carry the intention of raising social awareness through the extreme suffering of starvation.
Using abstract concepts and nuanced intentions.
굶기지 않으려는 부모의 필사적인 노력에도 불구하고, 경제적 파탄으로 인해 가족 전체가 굶주림의 벼랑 끝에 내몰리는 비극적인 상황이 발생했습니다.
Despite the desperate efforts of parents to prevent their children from starving, a tragic situation arose where the entire family was driven to the brink of starvation due to economic collapse.
Using strong emotional and dramatic language.
기근으로 인한 굶주림은 단순히 식량 부족의 문제를 넘어, 사회 구조적 모순과 불평등의 심각성을 드러내는 지표가 됩니다.
Starvation caused by famine transcends the mere issue of food scarcity, becoming an indicator that reveals the severity of socio-structural contradictions and inequality.
Using abstract socio-political terminology.
그는 굶주림의 참상을 직접 목격한 경험을 바탕으로, 식량 안보와 인도주의적 지원의 중요성을 역설하는 연설을 통해 대중의 인식을 제고하고자 했습니다.
Based on his firsthand experience witnessing the horrors of starvation, he sought to raise public awareness through speeches emphasizing the importance of food security and humanitarian aid.
Using sophisticated rhetorical devices and vocabulary.
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
— I skipped breakfast.
오늘은 너무 바빠서 아침을 굶었어요.
— I will skip lunch.
저녁에 맛있는 거 먹을 거니까 점심은 굶을게요.
— I skipped eating all day.
어제 회식 때문에 너무 많이 먹어서 오늘 하루 종일 굶었어요.
— You shouldn't skip meals.
건강을 위해서 굶으면 안 돼요.
— Starving children.
우리는 굶주린 아이들에게 도움을 주어야 합니다.
— Fighting starvation/hunger.
국제 사회는 굶주림 퇴치를 위해 노력하고 있습니다.
— To skip a meal (alternative phrase).
건강을 위해 규칙적으로 식사하고 거르지 마세요.
— To be hungry (related feeling).
아침을 굶었더니 배가 고프I skipped breakfast, so I'm hungry.
— A starving soul (figurative).
그녀의 눈빛에는 굶주린 영혼의 갈증이 느껴졌다.
— The pain of starvation.
그는 굶주림의 고통을 누구보다 잘 안다.
Often Confused With
'배고프다' means 'to be hungry' and describes the physical sensation. 굶다 is the act of not eating, which often leads to hunger but is distinct from the feeling itself.
While related, '굶주리다' usually implies a more severe and prolonged state of starvation and suffering, whereas 굶다 can simply mean skipping a meal.
These terms refer to fasting, often for religious or protest reasons, and imply a more deliberate and structured abstinence from food, whereas 굶다 can be more spontaneous or due to circumstance.
Idioms & Expressions
— To die of starvation.
그는 아무것도 먹지 못하고 결국 굶어서 죽He couldn't eat anything and eventually died of starvation.
— To pounce like a starving lion (to attack or consume something ravenously).
그는 음식을 보자마자 굶주린 사자처럼As soon as he saw the food, he attacked it like a starving lion.
— The bark of a hungry dog (used to describe someone who is complaining or making noise out of desperation or need, often in a petty way).
그의 불평은 마치 굶은 강아지 짖는 소리His complaints were like the bark of a hungry dog.
— To fill a starving soul (metaphorically, to satisfy a deep emotional or spiritual need).
그녀의 음악은 많은 사람들의 굶주린 영혼을Her music filled the starving souls of many people.
— Even a piece of rice cake appears when you are starving (meaning that if you are in dire need, even a small bit of good fortune is greatly appreciated or helpful).
지금은 돈이 없으니 굶다가 떡이라도I have no money now, so if even a small opportunity arises, it will be helpful.
— A starved face (a face that looks gaunt, pale, or weak from hunger or illness).
며칠 동안 제대로 먹지 못해 굶은 얼굴He had a starved look from not eating properly for days.
— A starving wolf (similar to '굶주린 사자,' used to describe someone who is extremely hungry, desperate, or predatory).
그는 마치 굶주린 늑대He looked at the food like a starving wolf.
— To be exhausted by starvation.
장기간의 굶주림에 지쳐Exhausted by starvation, he could no longer stand.
— To clutch one's starving stomach.
아이들은 굶주린 배를 움켜쥐고The children were clutching their starving stomachs.
— A starving beast (used to describe someone acting purely on instinct or desperation, often violently).
그는 돈을 뺏기 위해 굶주린 짐승He snatched the money like a starving beast.
Easily Confused
Both relate to the absence of food, but one is an action/state, the other is a feeling.
<mark class='bg-violet-200 dark:bg-violet-800 px-0.5 rounded'>굶다</mark> (geumda) means 'to skip a meal' or 'to starve' – it's the act of not eating. '배고프다' (baegopeuda) means 'to be hungry' – it's the feeling resulting from not eating. You can <mark class='bg-violet-200 dark:bg-violet-800 px-0.5 rounded'>굶다</mark> and then feel <mark class='bg-violet-200 dark:bg-violet-800 px-0.5 rounded'>배고프다</mark>.
아침을 <mark class='bg-violet-200 dark:bg-violet-800 px-0.5 rounded'>굶었더니</mark> 배가 고파요. (I skipped breakfast, so I am hungry.)
Both relate to starvation/hunger.
<mark class='bg-violet-200 dark:bg-violet-800 px-0.5 rounded'>굶다</mark> can mean skipping a meal or starving. '굶주리다' (gumjurida) specifically means 'to starve' or 'to be severely hungry,' emphasizing suffering and lack of sustenance. It's often used for more dire situations.
아이들이 <mark class='bg-violet-200 dark:bg-violet-800 px-0.5 rounded'>굶고</mark> 있다. (The children are starving/skipping meals - could be either). vs. 아이들이 <mark class='bg-violet-200 dark:bg-violet-800 px-0.5 rounded'>굶주리고</p></blockquote><figcaption class='p-3 text-sm font-medium text-emerald-600 dark:text-emerald-300'>The children are starving (implies severe suffering).</figcaption></figure>
All involve not eating.
<mark class='bg-violet-200 dark:bg-violet-800 px-0.5 rounded'>굶다</mark> is general. '금식하다' (geumsik-hada) means 'to fast' for religious or health reasons, often planned. '단식하다' (dansik-hada) means 'to go on a hunger strike' or 'fast,' often for protest or extreme dieting. These have specific purposes.
종교적 이유로 <mark class='bg-violet-200 dark:bg-violet-800 px-0.5 rounded'>금식</p></blockquote><figcaption class='p-3 text-sm font-medium text-emerald-600 dark:text-emerald-300'>I am fasting for religious reasons.</figcaption></figure> vs. <mark class='bg-violet-200 dark:bg-violet-800 px-0.5 rounded'>단식</p></blockquote><figcaption class='p-3 text-sm font-medium text-emerald-600 dark:text-emerald-300'>He went on a hunger strike.</figcaption></figure> vs. 바빠서 아침을 <mark class='bg-violet-200 dark:bg-violet-800 px-0.5 rounded'>굶었어요</mark>. (I skipped breakfast because I was busy.)
They sound similar and involve hunger.
<mark class='bg-violet-200 dark:bg-violet-800 px-0.5 rounded'>굶다</mark> is intransitive (one does it to oneself or generally doesn't eat). '굶기다' (gumgida) is the causative verb, meaning 'to make someone else starve' or 'to let someone go hungry.'
저는 점심을 <mark class='bg-violet-200 dark:bg-violet-800 px-0.5 rounded'>굶었어요</mark>. (I skipped lunch.) vs. 부모는 아이들을 <mark class='bg-violet-200 dark:bg-violet-800 px-0.5 rounded'>굶기지</mark> 않으려고 노력했다. (Parents tried not to let their children starve.)
Both mean to skip a meal.
<mark class='bg-violet-200 dark:bg-violet-800 px-0.5 rounded'>굶다</mark> is a single verb, sometimes implying a slightly more deliberate or prolonged omission. '식사를 거르다' (siksa-reul georeuda) is a phrase meaning 'to skip a meal' and is often considered a softer or more polite way to express the same idea in neutral contexts.
점심을 <mark class='bg-violet-200 dark:bg-violet-800 px-0.5 rounded'>굶었어요</mark>. (I skipped lunch.) vs. 점심 식사를 <mark class='bg-violet-200 dark:bg-violet-800 px-0.5 rounded'>거</p></blockquote><figcaption class='p-3 text-sm font-medium text-emerald-600 dark:text-emerald-300'>I skipped lunch.</figcaption></figure>
Sentence Patterns
[Meal] + 을/를 + 굶다 (past tense)
아침을 <mark class='bg-violet-200 dark:bg-violet-800 px-0.5 rounded'>굶었어요</mark>.
[Reason] + 때문에 + [Meal] + 을/를 + 굶다
너무 바빠서 점심을 <mark class='bg-violet-200 dark:bg-violet-800 px-0.5 rounded'>굶어요</mark>.
하루 종일 + 굶다
오늘 하루 종일 <mark class='bg-violet-200 dark:bg-violet-800 px-0.5 rounded'>굶었어요</mark>.
[Noun] + (으)ㄴ/는 + 굶주리다
<mark class='bg-violet-200 dark:bg-violet-800 px-0.5 rounded'>굶주린</mark> 아이들
[Verb stem] + (으)ㄴ + 굶주림
<mark class='bg-violet-200 dark:bg-violet-800 px-0.5 rounded'>굶주린</mark> 경험
[Object] + 을/를 + 굶기다
아이들을 <mark class='bg-violet-200 dark:bg-violet-800 px-0.5 rounded'>굶기지</mark> 마세요.
[Verb stem] + (으)ㄹ + 굶주림
끔찍한 <mark class='bg-violet-200 dark:bg-violet-800 px-0.5 rounded'>굶주림</mark>
[Nominalizer] + 는 + 것은 + 굶다
<mark class='bg-violet-200 dark:bg-violet-800 px-0.5 rounded'>굶는</mark> 것은 건강에 좋지 않다.
Word Family
Nouns
Verbs
Related
How to Use It
High (for skipping meals), Medium (for starving context)
-
Using '굶다' when meaning 'to be hungry'.
→
Using '배고프다'.
Learners often confuse the act of not eating (<mark class='bg-violet-200 dark:bg-violet-800 px-0.5 rounded'>굶다</mark>) with the feeling of hunger ('배고프다'). Remember: <mark class='bg-violet-200 dark:bg-violet-800 px-0.5 rounded'>굶다</mark> is the action, '배고프다' is the feeling.
-
Using '굶다' for mild hunger or skipping a tiny snack.
→
Use '안 먹었어요' (didn't eat) or describe the feeling '배고파요' (I'm hungry).
<mark class='bg-violet-200 dark:bg-violet-800 px-0.5 rounded'>굶다</mark> implies a more significant omission of a meal or a state of starvation. Using it for a small snack can sound overly dramatic.
-
Confusing '굶다' with '굶주리다' in everyday contexts.
→
Use '굶다' for skipping meals, and '굶주리다' for severe starvation.
'굶다' can mean both skipping a meal and starving. '굶주리다' specifically means 'to starve' and implies suffering. In casual conversation, <mark class='bg-violet-200 dark:bg-violet-800 px-0.5 rounded'>굶다</mark> usually means skipping a meal.
-
Incorrectly using the causative verb '굶기다'.
→
Use '굶기다' when causing someone else to starve, not oneself.
'굶기다' means 'to make someone starve.' <mark class='bg-violet-200 dark:bg-violet-800 px-0.5 rounded'>굶다</mark> means 'to starve' or 'skip a meal' oneself. For example, '아이들을 <mark class='bg-violet-200 dark:bg-violet-800 px-0.5 rounded'>굶기지</mark> 마세요' (Don't let the children starve).
-
Forgetting object particles with specific meals.
→
Include the object particle '을/를' after the meal name.
When specifying which meal you skipped, you need the object particle. For example, '점심<mark class='bg-violet-200 dark:bg-violet-800 px-0.5 rounded'>을</mark> 굶었어요' is correct, not just '점심 굶었어요.'
Tips
Pay Attention to Context
The meaning of 굶다 shifts significantly based on context. In everyday chats, it's usually 'skip a meal.' In news reports about crises, it's 'starve.' Always consider the surrounding words and situation.
Hunger vs. Skipping Meals
Remember that '배고프다' means 'to be hungry' (the feeling), while 굶다 is the act of not eating. Don't use 굶다 just to say you're hungry.
Focus on 'Skipping a Meal'
For most learners, focus on the common usage of 굶다 as 'to skip a meal' (e.g., 아침을 굶었어요). This will cover the majority of situations you'll encounter.
Learn Related Terms
Familiarize yourself with '굶주리다' (to starve) and '굶주림' (starvation) for more severe contexts, and '식사를 거르다' as a polite alternative for skipping meals.
Master Verb Conjugation
굶다 is a verb, so practice conjugating it for different tenses (past, present, future) and politeness levels (e.g., 굶어요, 굶었습니다, 굶을 거예요).
Create Your Own Sentences
Write sentences about skipping breakfast, lunch, or dinner for different reasons. This active practice will help solidify the word's usage in your memory.
Practice Pronunciation
Say '굶다' (geum-da) out loud several times. Pay attention to the 'g' sound and the short 'u' vowel. Listen to native speakers if possible.
Avoid Overuse for Minor Omissions
While you can say you 'skipped breakfast,' avoid using 굶다 for skipping a tiny snack unless the context implies a more significant omission.
Understand Cultural Significance
In Korea, meals are often social. While skipping is common, be aware that 'starvation' is a serious issue with cultural and historical weight.
Connect to Related Concepts
Think about words related to food, eating, hunger, and health. This will help you use 굶다 more effectively in various situations.
Memorize It
Mnemonic
Imagine a person 'GUM'ming on an empty plate ('DA' - like 'darn, nothing here!'). They are 'GUMming' because they are starving or skipping a meal.
Visual Association
Picture a very thin, almost skeletal figure holding an empty bowl. The 'GUM' sound can be associated with the grumbling stomach, and 'DA' can be the sound of despair when realizing there's no food.
Word Web
Challenge
Try using 굶다 in sentences describing hypothetical situations where you skip different meals for various reasons. Then, try to use it in a sentence describing a more serious situation of starvation.
Word Origin
The verb 굶다 (geumda) originates from Old Korean. Its root is believed to be related to the concept of lack or emptiness. Over time, it evolved to specifically denote the lack of food.
Original meaning: The precise original meaning is difficult to pinpoint definitively, but it is associated with the idea of 'emptiness' or 'lack,' which extended to the lack of food.
Koreanic language family.Cultural Context
The term 'starve' (the severe meaning of 굶다) should be used with sensitivity, as it refers to a serious condition. When discussing skipping meals, ensure the context makes it clear it's a voluntary act and not a description of severe hunger.
In English-speaking cultures, 'to starve' is a very strong word implying severe deprivation, while 'to skip a meal' is common and less severe. The Korean verb 굶다 bridges these two concepts, making context crucial.
Practice in Real Life
Real-World Contexts
Dieting and weight management
- 다이어트 때문에 굶어요.
- 점심을 굶는 편이에요.
- 무리하게 굶으면 안 돼요.
Busy daily life
- 바빠서 아침을 굶었어요.
- 시간이 없어서 점심을 거를 것 같아요.
- 오늘 하루 종일 굶었어요.
News and severe hardship
- 사람들이 굶주리고 있습니다.
- 식량 부족으로 굶는 사람들이 많습니다.
- 기근으로 인한 굶주림
Expressing hunger
- 아침을 굶었더니 배고파요.
- 굶었더니 기운이 없어요.
Health and well-being advice
- 굶는 것은 건강에 좋지 않아요.
- 규칙적으로 식사하세요.
- 굶주림을 겪지 않도록 도와야 합니다.
Conversation Starters
"Did you eat breakfast today? I skipped mine because I woke up late."
"I'm thinking of skipping lunch to save calories for dinner. Do you ever do that?"
"I heard on the news that there's a severe food shortage in some areas. It's heartbreaking to think of people starving."
"If you were going to skip a meal, which one would it be and why?"
"What are your thoughts on extreme dieting methods like skipping meals?"
Journal Prompts
Describe a time you deliberately skipped a meal. What was the reason, and how did you feel afterwards?
Imagine you are writing a news report about a community facing starvation. What details would you include to convey the severity of the situation?
Reflect on the importance of food security. How does the concept of 'starvation' make you feel, and what actions could be taken to prevent it?
Write a short story where a character has to choose between skipping a meal or facing another difficult consequence.
Discuss the difference between feeling hungry ('배고프다') and the act of skipping a meal ('굶다') or starving ('굶주리다'). When might each term be most appropriate?
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questions'굶다' (geumda) is a verb meaning 'to skip a meal' or 'to starve.' It describes the action or state of not eating. '배고프다' (baegopeuda) is an adjective meaning 'to be hungry,' describing the physical feeling. You might '굶다' (skip a meal) and then feel '배고프다' (hungry).
Context is key. If the sentence describes dire circumstances like famine, war, or extreme poverty, it means 'to starve.' In everyday conversation, especially with reasons like being busy or dieting, it means 'to skip a meal.' For example, '아침을 굶었어요' (I skipped breakfast) is common, while '사람들이 굶주리고 있다' (People are starving) refers to a severe situation.
'굶다' itself is a neutral verb. Its politeness depends on the ending attached. '굶어요' (geum-eoyo) is informal polite, while '굶습니다' (geum-seumnida) is formal polite. When used in phrases like '식사를 거르다,' it can sound slightly more formal or polite.
Common reasons include being too busy (especially in the morning), dieting, planning to eat a large meal later, or simply not feeling hungry. Occasionally, it might be due to financial constraints, though this is less common in everyday conversation compared to the other reasons.
The noun form related to starving is '굶주림' (gumjurim - hunger, starvation). There isn't a direct noun form for 'skipping a meal' derived solely from '굶다,' but phrases like '식사 거르기' (skipping a meal) can be used.
Yes, '굶다' can be used for animals, especially in contexts describing neglect or lack of food. For example, '개가 며칠 동안 굶었다' (The dog starved for several days).
'굶다' can mean both skipping a meal and starving. '굶주리다' specifically means 'to starve' or 'to be extremely hungry,' emphasizing the suffering. '굶주리다' is generally used for more severe situations than just skipping a meal.
Yes, absolutely. Saying '점심을 굶었어요' (jeomsim-eul geum-eoss-eoyo) is a very common and natural way to say 'I skipped lunch' in Korean.
If you use '굶다' when you simply mean 'I am hungry' ('배고프다'), it would be grammatically incorrect and sound strange. If you use it to describe skipping a snack too dramatically, it might sound overly serious or even humorous depending on the context.
Yes, '식사를 거르다' (siksa-reul georeuda) is a common alternative phrase that means 'to skip a meal.' It's often considered a bit more neutral or polite than using 굶다 for this specific meaning.
Test Yourself 10 questions
/ 10 correct
Perfect score!
Summary
The Korean verb '굶다' (geumda) signifies the act of not eating. While it can describe the dire situation of starving due to lack of food, it is far more frequently used in everyday conversation to mean skipping a meal, such as breakfast or lunch, often for reasons like dieting or being busy.
- Meaning: To starve or skip a meal.
- Usage: Common for skipping meals, less common but serious for starving.
- Key Context: Daily life (skipping meals), news (starvation).
- Related: 배고프다 (to be hungry).
Pay Attention to Context
The meaning of 굶다 shifts significantly based on context. In everyday chats, it's usually 'skip a meal.' In news reports about crises, it's 'starve.' Always consider the surrounding words and situation.
Hunger vs. Skipping Meals
Remember that '배고프다' means 'to be hungry' (the feeling), while 굶다 is the act of not eating. Don't use 굶다 just to say you're hungry.
Focus on 'Skipping a Meal'
For most learners, focus on the common usage of 굶다 as 'to skip a meal' (e.g., 아침을 굶었어요). This will cover the majority of situations you'll encounter.
Learn Related Terms
Familiarize yourself with '굶주리다' (to starve) and '굶주림' (starvation) for more severe contexts, and '식사를 거르다' as a polite alternative for skipping meals.
Example
너무 바빠서 점심을 굶었어요.
Related Content
This Word in Other Languages
Related Grammar Rules
More food words
몇 개
A2How many items?
~정도
A1Suffix meaning "about" or "approximately."
추가
A2Addition, extra (e.g., extra order).
~은/는 후에
A2After ~ing; indicates an action that occurs subsequent to another.
중에서
A2Among, out of (selection).
식욕
A2Appetite.
에피타이저
A2An appetizer.
전채
A2Appetizer.
먹음직스럽다
B2To look appetizing, delicious.
사과
A1apple