At the A1 level, you don't need to use the noun '괴로움' (distress) very often. Instead, you will mostly use the basic adjective form '괴롭다' (to be painful/distressing) or even simpler words like '아파요' (it hurts) or '슬퍼요' (I am sad). However, learning '괴로움' helps you understand that in Korean, we can turn a feeling into a 'thing.' Imagine 'sad' becoming 'sadness.' That is what is happening here. You might see this word in very simple storybooks or hear it in a song. Just remember: '괴로움' is the name of the bad feeling you have in your heart when something is very difficult. It is a big, heavy word for a big, heavy feeling. If you are just starting, focus on recognizing it when you hear it in sad K-drama scenes.
For A2 learners, '괴로움' is a useful word to expand your emotional vocabulary beyond just 'sad' or 'happy.' You are starting to talk about your experiences and feelings in more detail. You can use '괴로움' to describe a period of time that was hard. For example, '공부의 괴로움' (the distress of studying) or '이별의 괴로움' (the agony of a breakup). At this level, you should practice using it with simple verbs like '있다' (to have/there is) or '없다' (to not have). For example, '마음에 괴로움이 있어요' (There is distress in my heart). This makes your Korean sound more expressive and less like a textbook. You are moving from describing simple actions to describing internal states, which is a key step in reaching intermediate fluency.
At the B1 level, you should be able to use '괴로움' in more complex sentences and understand its nuance compared to '고통' (pain). You are now learning how to connect ideas, so you might say something like '괴로움을 잊기 위해서 운동을 해요' (I exercise to forget my distress). You will also encounter this word frequently in media. B1 learners should focus on 'collocations'—words that naturally go together. '괴로움을 겪다' (to experience distress) and '괴로움을 참다' (to endure distress) are essential phrases. You are also starting to understand the suffix '-ㅁ', which is a powerful tool in Korean to create nouns. Recognizing this pattern in '괴롭다 -> 괴로움' will help you decode hundreds of other Korean words.
At the B2 level, you are expected to use '괴로움' with precision in various registers. You should understand that '괴로움' is often the subject of literary and poetic expression. You can use it to discuss social issues, such as '청년들의 취업 괴로움' (the distress of young people seeking jobs). You should also be comfortable using it with more advanced verbs like '호소하다' (to appeal/complain) or '승화시키다' (to sublimate/transform). For example, '그는 자신의 괴로움을 예술로 승화시켰다' (He transformed his distress into art). At this stage, you should be able to explain the difference between '괴로움' and '고뇌' (anguish) or '번민' (agony) to someone else, showing a deep grasp of Korean emotional nuances.
For C1 learners, '괴로움' is a word you use to analyze literature, psychology, and philosophy. You should understand its historical weight in Korean culture, particularly in works that deal with 'Han' (a uniquely Korean sense of sorrow and regret). You can use '괴로움' to discuss abstract concepts like 'existential distress' (실존적 괴로움). Your usage should be fluid, incorporating it into complex grammatical structures like '-음에도 불구하고' (despite...). For example, '극심한 괴로움에도 불구하고 그는 끝까지 포기하지 않았다' (Despite the extreme distress, he did not give up until the end). You should also be able to recognize when '괴로움' is being used ironically or metaphorically in sophisticated social commentary.
At the C2 level, you have a native-like grasp of '괴로움.' You understand the subtle phonological impact of the word in poetry and the rhythmic role it plays in prose. You can differentiate between the '괴로움' of the individual and the '괴로움' of the collective, and you can use the word to engage in high-level debates about ethics, suffering, and the human condition. You might use it in a phrase like '괴로움의 본질' (the essence of suffering) when discussing Buddhist philosophy or modern psychology. At this level, the word is not just a vocabulary item; it is a tool for profound expression, allowing you to articulate the most complex and delicate shades of human experience with total accuracy and cultural sensitivity.

괴로움 em 30 segundos

  • 괴로움 means mental or emotional distress and agony.
  • It is a noun derived from the verb 괴롭다 (to be distressing).
  • Commonly used for deep emotional pain like breakups or life hardships.
  • It differs from physical pain (아픔) by focusing on the mind's suffering.

The Korean word 괴로움 (Gweroum) is a profound noun that encapsulates the essence of human suffering, mental distress, and emotional agony. Derived from the descriptive verb 괴롭다 (Gweropda), which means 'to be painful' or 'to be distressing,' the addition of the nominalizing suffix '-ㅁ' transforms the state of being into a tangible concept. Unlike simple physical pain, which is often described as 아픔 (Apeum), 괴로움 typically leans toward the psychological and existential weight of one's circumstances. It is the feeling of being tormented by thoughts, circumstances, or internal conflicts that seem inescapable.

Emotional Context
Used when describing the deep sorrow of a breakup, the stress of unbearable work pressure, or the existential dread of an uncertain future.
Physical-Mental Link
While it can refer to physical discomfort that is so persistent it becomes a mental burden, it is most frequently used for the 'agony' of the mind.

"사랑하는 사람을 잃은 괴로움은 말로 다 표현할 수 없습니다."

(The agony of losing a loved one cannot be fully expressed in words.)

In daily life, Koreans use this word to express a high level of intensity. It is not just being 'unhappy' (불행); it is being 'distressed.' It implies a struggle against a force that is weighing down on one's soul. For instance, a student struggling with intense academic competition might describe their state as 괴로움. It is a word often found in literature, song lyrics (especially ballads), and therapeutic settings where deep emotions are explored.

"그는 가난의 괴로움 속에서도 희망을 잃지 않았다."

(He did not lose hope even amidst the distress of poverty.)
Literary Usage
Often paired with verbs like 토로하다 (to vent/express) or 삭이다 (to suppress/digest one's feelings).

Understanding 괴로움 requires recognizing that it is a passive state of being affected by something external or internal that causes pain. It is the 'suffering' that results from 'being tormented.' When you see a character in a drama staring blankly into the rain after a major life setback, the word the narrator might use to describe their internal state is 괴로움. It is heavy, it is thick, and it is deeply human.

"마음의 괴로움을 덜기 위해 여행을 떠났다."

(I went on a trip to alleviate the distress in my heart.)

Using 괴로움 correctly involves understanding its role as a noun and the specific verbs it typically pairs with. Since it describes a state of mind, it often functions as the object of an action (feeling it, enduring it, overcoming it) or the subject of a sentence (describing how large or heavy the distress is).

Standard Verb Pairings
겪다 (Gyeokda): To experience or go through distress. This is the most common way to say 'to suffer.'
잊다 (Itda): To forget the distress. Often used in the context of drinking or distractions.
이기다 (Igida): To overcome or win over the distress.

"그녀는 혼자서 그 모든 괴로움을 견뎌냈다."

(She endured all that distress by herself.)

Grammatically, 괴로움 is a count-neutral noun, but it is often used with modifiers to specify the source of the agony. You will frequently see it preceded by a possessive or a descriptive clause. For example, '이별의 괴로움' (the agony of parting) or '실패의 괴로움' (the distress of failure). This helps the listener understand exactly what is causing the mental pain.

"육체적인 통증보다 정신적인 괴로움이 더 컸다."

(The mental distress was greater than the physical pain.)
Common Adjectives
깊은 (Gipeun): Deep distress.
말할 수 없는 (Malhal su eomneun): Unspeakable agony.
끝없는 (Kkeuteomneun): Endless suffering.

In formal writing or speeches, 괴로움 is used to express empathy. A leader might speak of the 'distress of the citizens' (국민들의 괴로움). In personal journals, it is the word used for the rawest, most honest descriptions of one's internal state. It is a 'heavy' word, so use it when the situation warrants more than just a passing sadness.

"그의 눈에는 숨길 수 없는 괴로움이 서려 있었다."

(In his eyes, there was a distress that could not be hidden.)

The word 괴로움 is ubiquitous in Korean media, particularly in genres that deal with heavy emotional themes. If you watch K-dramas, you will hear this word during the 'climax' of a character's emotional arc—when they finally admit how much they have been suffering in silence. It is a 'confessional' word.

K-Dramas and Movies
Characters often say, '내 괴로움을 알아?' (Do you know my agony?) when they feel misunderstood. It signifies a depth of pain that the other person hasn't realized.
K-Pop Lyrics
Ballads are the natural home for this word. Lyrics often describe the '괴로움' of missing someone or the '괴로움' of a love that cannot be.

"이 밤이 지나면 이 괴로움도 사라질까요?"

(Will this distress also disappear when this night passes? - Common lyric style)

In news reports, 괴로움 is used when interviewing victims of accidents or social injustices. It provides a human element to the story, moving beyond facts to the emotional reality of the people involved. You might hear a reporter say, '피해자들은 여전히 정신적 괴로움을 호소하고 있습니다' (The victims are still complaining of mental distress).

"직장 내 괴롭힘으로 인한 괴로움은 심각한 사회 문제입니다."

(Distress caused by workplace bullying is a serious social issue.)

In literature and poetry, 괴로움 is a central theme. Famous Korean poets like Yun Dong-ju often wrote about the '괴로움' of living in a difficult era (the Japanese occupation). In this context, the word takes on a historical and national significance, representing the collective suffering of a people. When you read classic Korean literature, pay attention to how this word is used to bridge the gap between individual feeling and social reality.

While 괴로움 is a common word, learners often confuse it with other terms for 'pain' or 'sadness' because English often translates them using similar adjectives. Understanding the boundaries of this word is key to sounding natural.

Confusion with 아픔 (Apeum)
아픔 is primarily physical pain (like a headache). While it can be used metaphorically for emotional pain, 괴로움 is more specific to the 'torment' or 'distress' of the situation. You wouldn't say '머리의 괴로움' for a headache; you'd say '머리의 아픔' or just '두통'.
Confusion with 슬픔 (Seulpeum)
슬픔 is 'sadness.' You can be sad without being in agony. 괴로움 is more intense and usually involves a sense of being 'bothered' or 'burdened' by the emotion.

"(Wrong) 시험 공부가 너무 슬퍼요."
"(Right) 시험 공부가 너무 괴로워요."

(Studying for exams isn't 'sad'; it's 'distressing/painful'.)

Another mistake is using the noun form 괴로움 when the adjective 괴롭다 is needed. In Korean, you can't say 'I am distress' (나는 괴로움이다). You must say 'I am distressed' (나는 괴롭다) or 'I have distress' (나는 괴로움이 있다). This is a common hurdle for English speakers who are used to the flexibility of English word classes.

"그는 가난이라는 괴로움을 짊어지고 살았다."

(He lived carrying the burden of distress called poverty.)

Finally, avoid overusing it for minor inconveniences. If you just lost your pen, saying you are in 괴로움 is overly dramatic. Use 짜증 (annoyance) or 불편 (inconvenience) instead. 괴로움 is reserved for things that truly affect your peace of mind.

To truly master the emotional landscape of Korean, you need to know how 괴로움 compares to its synonyms. Each word carries a slightly different 'flavor' of suffering.

고통 (Gotong) vs. 괴로움
고통 is a more formal and general term for 'pain' or 'suffering.' It is used in medical, legal, and philosophical contexts. 괴로움 is more subjective and personal. While 고통 is the 'pain' itself, 괴로움 is the 'feeling of being pained.'
고뇌 (Gonoe) vs. 괴로움
고뇌 refers specifically to 'anguish' or 'mental struggle' resulting from deep thought or a difficult decision. It is the suffering of an intellectual or a philosopher. 괴로움 is broader and can be purely emotional.

"작가는 창작의 고뇌에 빠졌다." vs "그는 이별의 괴로움에 빠졌다."

(The writer fell into the anguish of creation vs. He fell into the agony of parting.)

Other alternatives include 시련 (Siryeon), which means 'trial' or 'hardship.' While 괴로움 is the feeling, 시련 is the event that causes the feeling. If you are going through a hard time, you are facing a 시련, and that causes you 괴로움.

"그는 삶의 무게에서 오는 괴로움을 견뎠다."

(He endured the distress coming from the weight of life.)

In summary, while there are many words for pain, 괴로움 is your go-to word for that deep, nagging, emotional distress that makes life feel heavy. It is the word of the heart under pressure.

How Formal Is It?

Curiosidade

The suffix '-ㅁ' is one of the oldest ways in Korean to turn an action or state into a noun, effectively turning 'feeling pained' into 'the pain.'

Guia de pronúncia

UK /ɡwe.ɾo.um/
US /ɡwe.ɾo.um/
In Korean, stress is relatively even, but there is a slight emphasis on the first syllable '괴' (Gwe).
Rima com
마음 (Ma-eum) 비움 (Bi-um) 채움 (Chae-um) 도움 (Do-um) 웃음 (Us-eum) 울음 (Ul-eum) 걸음 (Geol-eum) 졸음 (Jol-eum)
Erros comuns
  • Pronouncing 'gwe' as 'goy'. It should be a 'w' sound.
  • Failing to close the lips for the final 'm'.
  • Pronouncing the 'r' as an English 'r' instead of a flap.

Nível de dificuldade

Leitura 3/5

Easy to recognize in text, often appears in titles and lyrics.

Escrita 4/5

Requires understanding of the -ㅁ nominalization and correct verb pairings.

Expressão oral 4/5

The pronunciation of 'ㅚ' can be tricky for beginners.

Audição 3/5

Distinct sound makes it easy to pick out in emotional scenes.

O que aprender depois

Pré-requisitos

괴롭다 아프다 슬프다 마음 힘들다

Aprenda a seguir

고통 고뇌 시련 극복 인내

Avançado

번민 갈등 한(恨) 염원 해탈

Gramática essencial

Nominalization with -ㅁ/음

괴롭다 -> 괴로움, 슬프다 -> 슬픔

Cause and Effect with -기 때문에

괴로움이 크기 때문에 힘들어요.

Experience with -아/어 보다

그런 괴로움을 겪어 봤어요.

Adjective to Adverb with -게

괴롭게 만들지 마세요.

Supposition with -(으)ㄹ 텐데

괴로움이 많을 텐데 괜찮아요?

Exemplos por nível

1

마음에 괴로움이 있어요.

There is distress in my heart.

Noun + 이/가 있다 structure.

2

괴로움을 잊고 싶어요.

I want to forget the distress.

Object marker 을/를 + 싶다 (want to).

3

그녀는 괴로움 때문에 울어요.

She is crying because of distress.

Noun + 때문에 (because of).

4

이 노래는 괴로움에 대한 노래예요.

This song is about distress.

Noun + 에 대한 (about).

5

괴로움이 너무 커요.

The distress is too big.

Subject marker + 크다 (to be big).

6

친구의 괴로움을 들었어요.

I heard about my friend's distress.

Possessive particle 의.

7

괴로움이 없는 곳에 가고 싶어.

I want to go to a place where there is no distress.

Noun-modifying form (없는).

8

이것은 삶의 괴로움이에요.

This is the distress of life.

Polite ending -이에요.

1

시험 공부는 정말 괴로움이에요.

Studying for exams is really a distress.

Noun + 은/는 + Noun + 이다.

2

그는 괴로움을 참으려고 노력해요.

He tries to endure the distress.

-(으)려고 노력하다 (try to).

3

돈이 없는 것은 큰 괴로움입니다.

Not having money is a big distress.

Formal ending -입니다.

4

괴로움을 나누면 반이 돼요.

If you share distress, it becomes half.

-(으)면 (if).

5

어제의 괴로움은 다 잊으세요.

Please forget all of yesterday's distress.

Imperative -(으)세요.

6

그녀의 눈에서 괴로움을 봤어요.

I saw distress in her eyes.

Past tense -았/었/였다.

7

혼자 있는 괴로움이 싫어요.

I hate the distress of being alone.

Subject + 싫다 (to hate).

8

이별의 괴로움은 시간이 필요해요.

The agony of parting needs time.

Time + 이/가 필요하다.

1

많은 사람들이 취업 준비의 괴로움을 겪고 있다.

Many people are experiencing the distress of job hunting.

-고 있다 (progressive tense).

2

괴로움을 이겨내고 성공한 사람들의 이야기입니다.

It is a story of people who overcame distress and succeeded.

-아/어/여 내다 (to finish doing something difficult).

3

그는 술로 괴로움을 달래려고 했다.

He tried to soothe his distress with alcohol.

Noun + (으)로 (by means of).

4

말 못 할 괴로움이 그를 힘들게 했다.

An unspeakable distress made it hard for him.

Noun-modifying -(으)ㄹ (future/potential).

5

우리는 서로의 괴로움을 이해해야 합니다.

We must understand each other's distress.

-아/어/여야 하다 (must/should).

6

괴로움이 깊어질수록 침묵하게 된다.

The deeper the distress, the more one becomes silent.

-(으)ㄹ수록 (the more... the more...).

7

부모님은 자식의 괴로움을 차마 볼 수 없었다.

The parents couldn't bear to see their child's distress.

차마 -(으)ㄹ 수 없다 (cannot bear to).

8

그의 일기에는 삶의 괴로움이 가득했다.

His diary was full of the distress of life.

Noun + 이/가 가득하다 (to be full of).

1

창작의 괴로움은 작가라면 누구나 느끼는 감정이다.

The agony of creation is an emotion any writer feels.

Noun + (이)라면 (if it is...).

2

그녀는 자신의 괴로움을 밖으로 드러내지 않았다.

She did not reveal her distress to the outside.

Negative -지 않다.

3

사소한 오해가 큰 괴로움을 불러일으킬 수 있다.

A minor misunderstanding can trigger great distress.

부러일으키다 (to trigger/arouse).

4

그는 신체적 고통보다 정신적 괴로움에 시달렸다.

He suffered more from mental distress than physical pain.

Noun + 에 시달리다 (to suffer from).

5

괴로움을 딛고 일어선 그의 모습이 감동적이었다.

The sight of him standing up after overcoming distress was moving.

딛고 일어서다 (to step on and stand up - metaphorical).

6

현대인들은 스트레스로 인한 괴로움을 호소하곤 한다.

Modern people often complain of distress caused by stress.

-곤 하다 (to do something habitually).

7

괴로움은 때로 우리를 더 강하게 만든다.

Distress sometimes makes us stronger.

Noun + 를/을 + Adjective-게 만들다.

8

그는 친구에게 자신의 괴로움을 솔직하게 털어놓았다.

He frankly confessed his distress to his friend.

털어놓다 (to pour out/confess).

1

인간은 존재 자체에서 오는 근원적인 괴로움을 피할 수 없다.

Humans cannot avoid the fundamental distress that comes from existence itself.

근원적 (fundamental/root).

2

그 영화는 전쟁이 남긴 참혹한 괴로움을 생생하게 묘사했다.

The movie vividly depicted the horrific distress left by the war.

생생하게 묘사하다 (to describe vividly).

3

그는 죽음의 괴로움을 초월한 듯한 평온한 표정을 지었다.

He had a peaceful expression as if he had transcended the agony of death.

초월하다 (to transcend).

4

사회적 불평등은 많은 이들에게 끝없는 괴로움을 안겨준다.

Social inequality inflicts endless distress on many people.

안겨주다 (to give/inflict).

5

그 시인은 민족의 괴로움을 시 속에 녹여냈다.

The poet melted the nation's distress into his poems.

녹여내다 (to melt into/incorporate).

6

괴로움의 밑바닥에서 그는 비로소 자신을 발견했다.

At the very bottom of distress, he finally discovered himself.

비로소 (finally/at last).

7

그녀의 침묵은 수만 가지 괴로움을 함축하고 있었다.

Her silence implied tens of thousands of distresses.

함축하다 (to imply/connote).

8

철학자들은 괴로움의 의미를 탐구해 왔다.

Philosophers have been exploring the meaning of distress.

-아/어/여 오다 (have been doing).

1

실존적 괴로움은 현대 문학의 핵심적인 주제 중 하나이다.

Existential distress is one of the core themes of modern literature.

실존적 (existential).

2

그의 연주는 삶의 모든 괴로움을 승화시킨 듯한 숭고함을 보여주었다.

His performance showed a sublimity as if it had sublimated all the distress of life.

숭고함 (sublimity).

3

인간의 욕망이 멈추지 않는 한 괴로움의 굴레에서 벗어날 수 없다.

As long as human desire does not stop, one cannot escape the shackles of distress.

-(느)ㄴ 한 (as long as).

4

작가는 고독이라는 괴로움을 통해 자아를 성찰했다.

The writer reflected on the self through the distress called solitude.

성찰하다 (to reflect/introspect).

5

비극적인 운명 앞에서도 그는 괴로움에 굴복하지 않았다.

Even before a tragic fate, he did not succumb to distress.

굴복하다 (to succumb/surrender).

6

그의 글은 독자들에게 위로와 동시에 깊은 괴로움을 던져준다.

His writing throws both comfort and deep distress to the readers.

A와 동시에 B (A and B simultaneously).

7

타인의 괴로움을 온전히 공감하는 것은 불가능에 가깝다.

Completely empathizing with another's distress is close to impossible.

온전히 (entirely/completely).

8

괴로움은 영혼을 정화하는 불꽃과도 같다.

Distress is like a flame that purifies the soul.

Noun + 와/과도 같다 (be just like).

Colocações comuns

괴로움을 겪다
괴로움을 호소하다
괴로움을 잊다
괴로움을 참다
괴로움을 나누다
괴로움에 빠지다
괴로움이 크다
괴로움을 덜다
괴로움을 주다
괴로움을 이기다

Frases Comuns

말할 수 없는 괴로움

— Unspeakable agony. Used for pain so deep words fail.

그녀는 말할 수 없는 괴로움 속에 살고 있다.

마음의 괴로움

— Distress of the heart. Specifically mental suffering.

마음의 괴로움을 치유하는 것이 중요하다.

이별의 괴로움

— The agony of parting. Used after breakups or death.

이별의 괴로움은 시간이 약이다.

삶의 괴로움

— The distress of life. General existential or daily struggles.

누구나 삶의 괴로움은 있는 법이다.

끝없는 괴로움

— Endless distress. Used for persistent suffering.

끝없는 괴로움에서 벗어나고 싶다.

괴로움의 연속

— A series of distresses. When bad things keep happening.

그의 삶은 괴로움의 연속이었다.

육체적 괴로움

— Physical distress. Suffering caused by bodily pain.

질병으로 인한 육체적 괴로움이 심하다.

정신적 괴로움

— Mental distress. Psychological suffering.

정신적 괴로움도 치료가 필요하다.

남모를 괴로움

— Hidden distress. Suffering that others don't know about.

그에게도 남모를 괴로움이 있었다.

괴로움의 씨앗

— The seed of distress. The cause of suffering.

욕심은 괴로움의 씨앗이다.

Frequentemente confundido com

괴로움 vs 아픔

아픔 is more physical; 괴로움 is more mental/emotional.

괴로움 vs 슬픔

슬픔 is sadness; 괴로움 is intense distress/agony.

괴로움 vs 불편

불편 is inconvenience; 괴로움 is deep suffering.

Expressões idiomáticas

"괴로움 끝에 낙이 온다"

— Pleasure comes after pain. Similar to 'No pain, no gain' or 'Every cloud has a silver lining.'

지금 힘들어도 참아라. 괴로움 끝에 낙이 온다.

Neutral
"가슴을 쥐어짜는 괴로움"

— Heart-wrenching agony. Pain so intense it feels like the heart is being squeezed.

그는 가슴을 쥐어짜는 괴로움에 눈물을 흘렸다.

Literary
"뼈를 깎는 괴로움"

— Bone-chilling/cutting agony. Extremely intense suffering, often for a goal.

뼈를 깎는 괴로움을 참고 훈련했다.

Formal
"피눈물 나는 괴로움"

— Distress that makes one cry tears of blood. Extreme sorrow and pain.

그는 피눈물 나는 괴로움을 겪으며 자랐다.

Informal/Emotive
"괴로움의 늪에 빠지다"

— To fall into a swamp of distress. Being stuck in suffering.

그는 실패 후 괴로움의 늪에 빠졌다.

Literary
"괴로움을 씹다"

— To chew on distress. To reflect on or endure pain deeply.

그는 홀로 앉아 괴로움을 씹었다.

Literary
"괴로움을 삭이다"

— To digest/suppress distress. To calm one's inner pain quietly.

그녀는 화와 괴로움을 안으로 삭였다.

Neutral
"괴로움이 파도처럼 밀려오다"

— Distress coming in like waves. Overwhelming, repeated pain.

밤이 되면 괴로움이 파도처럼 밀려온다.

Literary
"괴로움의 멍에를 메다"

— To wear the yoke of distress. To carry a heavy burden of suffering.

그는 평생 가난이라는 괴로움의 멍에를 메고 살았다.

Formal/Literary
"괴로움을 토하다"

— To vomit distress. To vent or express deep pain loudly.

그는 친구 앞에서 괴로움을 토해냈다.

Informal

Fácil de confundir

괴로움 vs 고통

Both mean 'pain'.

고통 is more clinical/objective; 괴로움 is more subjective/emotional.

수술 후 고통 (Physical) vs. 실패의 괴로움 (Mental).

괴로움 vs 고뇌

Both mean mental suffering.

고뇌 is specifically from deep thinking/dilemmas; 괴로움 is any distress.

철학적 고뇌 vs. 이별의 괴로움.

괴로움 vs 시련

Both relate to hard times.

시련 is the event/trial itself; 괴로움 is the feeling caused by it.

시련을 겪다 (The event) vs. 괴로움을 느끼다 (The feeling).

괴로움 vs 걱정

Both involve negative thoughts.

걱정 is worry about the future; 괴로움 is current agony.

내일 걱정 vs. 오늘의 괴로움.

괴로움 vs 짜증

Both are negative feelings.

짜증 is annoyance/irritation; 괴로움 is much deeper and more serious.

더워서 짜증 나 vs. 삶이 괴로워.

Padrões de frases

A1

N이/가 괴로움이에요.

공부가 괴로움이에요.

A2

N의 괴로움이 커요.

이별의 괴로움이 커요.

B1

괴로움을 잊으려고 V-아요/어요.

괴로움을 잊으려고 술을 마셔요.

B1

N 때문에 괴로움을 겪다.

가난 때문에 괴로움을 겪었어요.

B2

괴로움을 호소하는 N.

괴로움을 호소하는 사람들이 많아요.

C1

V-는 괴로움을 견디다.

혼자 사는 괴로움을 견뎠어요.

C1

괴로움에도 불구하고 V.

괴로움에도 불구하고 웃었어요.

C2

괴로움을 승화시키다.

그는 괴로움을 예술로 승화시켰다.

Família de palavras

Substantivos

괴롭힘 (Bullying/Harassment)

Verbos

괴롭히다 (To harass/torment)
괴로워하다 (To feel distressed/to suffer)

Adjetivos

괴롭다 (To be distressing/painful)

Relacionado

고통
고뇌
번민
아픔
슬픔

Como usar

frequency

High in emotional contexts, literature, and media.

Erros comuns
  • Using '괴로움' for a small scratch. 아픔

    Physical minor pain is '아픔', not '괴로움'.

  • 나는 괴로움이다. (I am distress.) 나는 괴롭다. (I am distressed.)

    You need the adjective form to describe your state, not the noun.

  • 괴로움을 먹다. 괴로움을 겪다.

    You 'experience' or 'go through' distress, you don't 'eat' it.

  • Confusing '괴로움' with '지루함' (boredom). 지루함

    Boredom is not agony. Don't over-dramatize.

  • Using '괴로움' instead of '고뇌' for a difficult math problem. 고뇌

    Mental struggle from thinking is '고뇌'.

Dicas

Noun Formation

Learn the -ㅁ suffix. It changes adjectives into nouns (e.g., 슬프다 -> 슬픔, 기쁘다 -> 기쁨, 괴롭다 -> 괴로움).

Pain vs. Agony

Use '아픔' for 'ouch' moments and '괴로움' for 'my soul is burdened' moments.

Verb Pairing

Always remember '겪다' (experience) is the best friend of '괴로움'.

Literature

If you see this word in a poem, it's likely talking about deep existential or national suffering.

Emotional Weight

Don't use this word lightly. It carries a lot of emotional weight in Korean.

Ballad Keywords

When listening to K-ballads, '괴로움' is a key indicator of the song's theme of suffering.

Journaling

Use this word in your diary to describe complex feelings that 'sad' doesn't quite cover.

Professional Use

In a workplace context, use it to describe 'stress' or 'harassment' (괴롭힘) formally.

Visual Aid

Picture a heavy box in your heart. That box is '괴로움'.

Precision

Try to swap '괴로움' with '고통' or '고뇌' to see if the meaning changes. This helps you understand the boundaries.

Memorize

Mnemônico

Think of 'Gwe' (sounds like 'Gray') and 'Ro-um' (sounds like 'Room'). A 'Gray Room' is a place of 'distress' or 'agony'.

Associação visual

Imagine a person carrying a heavy, gray stone labeled 'ㅁ' (the noun marker) on their back. The stone represents the '괴로움'.

Word Web

마음 (Mind) 눈물 (Tears) 참다 (Endure) 고통 (Pain) 이별 (Parting) 스트레스 (Stress) 치유 (Healing) 극복 (Overcoming)

Desafio

Write three sentences about a time you felt '괴로움' and how you '잊다' (forgot) or '이기다' (overcame) it.

Origem da palavra

Derived from the Middle Korean adjective '괴롭다'. The root '괴롭-' is combined with the nominalizing suffix '-ㅁ'.

Significado original: To be bothered, troubled, or in pain.

Koreanic

Contexto cultural

Be careful when using this word with elders; it may sound overly dramatic if used for small things. However, it is very appropriate for expressing deep empathy.

English speakers might use 'pain' or 'suffering' interchangeably, but Korean distinguishes between physical '아픔' and mental '괴로움' more strictly.

Yun Dong-ju's poem 'Prologue' (서시) mentions the '괴로움' of the poet. Many K-Drama titles use '괴롭다' or '괴로움' in their dialogue to signify deep trauma. Buddhist teachings in Korea focus on the 'end of 괴로움' (고해 - the sea of suffering).

Pratique na vida real

Contextos reais

Relationship Breakup

  • 이별의 괴로움
  • 괴로움을 잊다
  • 가슴 아픈 괴로움
  • 그녀를 잊는 괴로움

Workplace Stress

  • 업무의 괴로움
  • 직장 내 괴롭힘
  • 괴로움을 호소하다
  • 퇴사하고 싶은 괴로움

Physical Illness

  • 병마의 괴로움
  • 육체적 괴로움
  • 통증으로 인한 괴로움
  • 치료의 괴로움

Academic Pressure

  • 시험의 괴로움
  • 입시 괴로움
  • 공부의 끝없는 괴로움
  • 성적 때문에 받는 괴로움

Existential Crisis

  • 삶의 괴로움
  • 존재의 괴로움
  • 나를 찾는 괴로움
  • 미래에 대한 괴로움

Iniciadores de conversa

"요즘 가장 큰 괴로움이 뭐예요?"

"괴로울 때 보통 어떻게 하세요?"

"이별의 괴로움을 어떻게 이겨냈어요?"

"공부의 괴로움을 잊는 방법이 있나요?"

"누군가에게 괴로움을 털어놓은 적이 있어요?"

Temas para diário

오늘 나를 힘들게 했던 괴로움에 대해 써보세요.

과거의 괴로움이 나를 어떻게 성장시켰는지 생각해보세요.

만약 괴로움이 없는 세상이 있다면 어떨까요?

내가 사랑하는 사람이 괴로워할 때 해주고 싶은 말은?

나만의 괴로움 극복 비법을 적어보세요.

Perguntas frequentes

10 perguntas

No, for a headache you should use '아픔' or '통증'. '괴로움' is for the mental distress caused by the headache if it's really bad and persistent.

It is a neutral noun, but because of its intensity, it often appears in formal writing, literature, and serious conversations.

You wouldn't use the noun. You would use the verb: '괴롭히지 마세요' (Don't harass/bother me).

괴롭다 is the adjective ('to be distressing'). 괴로움 is the noun ('distress/agony').

No, that's '심심함' or '지루함'. '괴로움' is much more painful.

No, that's not a common expression. Use '괴로움을 겪다' or '괴로움을 삼키다' (to swallow/endure).

Yes, but they usually use simpler words like '힘들어' or '슬퍼'. If a child uses '괴로움', it sounds very serious.

The most direct opposites are '기쁨' (joy) and '즐거움' (pleasure).

Only if the pain is so bad it's causing mental torment. Usually, '고통' or '아픔' is better for physical pain.

Extremely common. Almost every sad ballad will use '괴롭다' or '괴로움' at least once.

Teste-se 200 perguntas

writing

Write a sentence using '이별의 괴로움'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Translate: 'I want to forget this distress.'

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Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Write a sentence using '괴로움을 겪다'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Translate: 'The distress of poverty is hard.'

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Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Write a sentence about 'mental distress' (정신적 괴로움).

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Translate: 'He overcame his distress.'

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Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Write a sentence using the proverb '괴로움 끝에 낙이 온다'.

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Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Translate: 'Don't give distress to others.'

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Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Write a sentence using '말할 수 없는 괴로움'.

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Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Translate: 'I shared my distress with my friend.'

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Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Write a sentence about 'the agony of creation' (창작의 괴로움).

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Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Translate: 'There is no distress in my heart.'

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Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Write a sentence using '괴로움을 호소하다'.

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Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Translate: 'The distress of failure made me strong.'

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Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Write a sentence using '남모를 괴로움'.

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Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Translate: 'I cannot bear to see your distress.'

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Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Write a sentence using '괴로움의 연속'.

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Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Translate: 'Escaping from distress is not easy.'

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Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Write a sentence using '육체적 괴로움'.

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Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Translate: 'Distress is a part of life.'

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Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Say 'I have a lot of distress' in polite Korean.

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Ask a friend 'What is your distress?' in casual Korean.

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speaking

Say 'Don't be distressed' using the adjective form.

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speaking

Pronounce '괴로움' clearly.

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speaking

Say 'The agony of love' in Korean.

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speaking

Say 'I want to forget my distress' in polite Korean.

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speaking

Say 'Share your distress' in polite Korean.

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speaking

Say 'I endured the distress' in polite Korean.

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speaking

Say 'I am suffering from mental distress' formally.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say the proverb 'Joy follows pain' in Korean.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Ask 'Is the distress big?' in polite Korean.

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speaking

Say 'The distress of failure' in Korean.

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Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Say 'He felt unspeakable agony' in polite Korean.

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speaking

Say 'Don't give me distress' in casual Korean.

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speaking

Say 'I understand your distress' in polite Korean.

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speaking

Say 'I hope your distress disappears' in polite Korean.

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speaking

Say 'I overcame it' in polite Korean.

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speaking

Say 'Workplace distress' in Korean.

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speaking

Say 'The agony of parting is deep' in polite Korean.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say 'Life is distress' in a philosophical tone.

Read this aloud:

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listening

Listen and choose the word: '그는 괴로움을 겪었다.'

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
listening

What did the person say they want to do? '괴로움을 잊고 싶어.'

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
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listening

Is the person happy or sad? '마음에 괴로움이 가득해.'

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
listening

What is the topic? '이별의 괴로움에 대해 이야기해 봅시다.'

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
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listening

What word means 'endure'? '괴로움을 참으세요.'

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
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listening

Which emotion is mentioned? '기쁨과 괴로움은 함께 온다.'

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listening

Is the distress small or large? '괴로움이 말할 수 없이 커요.'

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listening

What did the person complain of? '정신적 괴로움을 호소했습니다.'

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
listening

What did they do with the distress? '괴로움을 나누면 반이 됩니다.'

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listening

What is the proverb mentioned? '괴로움 끝에 낙이 온다.'

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listening

What is causing the distress? '가난의 괴로움은 정말 힘들어요.'

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listening

What did they do after the distress? '괴로움을 딛고 일어섰다.'

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
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listening

What is in the eye? '눈에 괴로움이 가득했다.'

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
listening

What is the writer's struggle? '창작의 괴로움을 느낀다.'

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
listening

What should we do? '남의 괴로움을 모른 척 하지 마세요.'

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:

/ 200 correct

Perfect score!

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