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A2 adjective #3,500 mais comum 8 min de leitura

허약하다

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Pratique Exemplos Notas e dicas 허약하다 em 30 segundos

Explicação 허약하다 in your Level:

At the A1 level, you can think of 허약하다 as a special way to say 'weak' when talking about your body. While you might know the word 약하다 (weak), 허약하다 is specifically used for physical health. For example, if you get sick very often, you can say '저는 몸이 허약해요' (My body is frail). At this stage, just remember that it's an adjective used with the subject marker -이/가. You don't need to worry about complex grammar; just use it to describe yourself or someone else's health in a simple way. It's most common to hear this when talking about babies or children who need to eat more to grow strong. Think of it as 'not having much energy' or 'being delicate.'

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As an A2 learner, you should start using 허약하다 to describe people's physical constitutions. You can use the form 허약한 to modify nouns, like 허약한 아이 (a frail child) or 허약한 체질 (a weak constitution). You should also be able to use it with basic connectors like -아/어서 to give reasons. For example: '몸이 허약해서 운동을 못 해요' (I can't exercise because my body is frail). At this level, you should distinguish it from 약하다 (general weakness). Remember that 허약하다 is almost always about health and physical strength, not about things like light or sound. You might see this word on medicine labels or in health-related conversations.

At the B1 level, you can use 허약하다 in more varied contexts, including describing the health of the elderly or patients in a clinical sense. You should understand the noun form 허약 and how it combines with other nouns like 허약 체질 (frail constitution). You can also start using it metaphorically to describe a 'weak foundation' or a 'frail system.' For instance, '그 회사는 자본이 허약하다' (That company's capital is frail/weak). You should be comfortable with more complex sentence structures, such as using -(으)면 (if) or -(으)ㄹ수록 (the more... the more...). Example: '몸이 허약할수록 규칙적인 생활이 중요하다' (The more frail your body is, the more important a regular lifestyle becomes).

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At the B2 level, you should recognize the nuanced differences between 허약하다 and its synonyms like 쇠약하다 (to be emaciated/declining) or 부실하다 (to be inadequate/shaky). You can use 허약하다 in formal writing, such as essays about social welfare or healthcare for the elderly. You should also be able to discuss the causes and effects of being 허약하다 using advanced grammar like -음에도 불구하고 (despite) or -기 마련이다 (it's natural that...). For example, '어릴 때 허약했음에도 불구하고 꾸준한 노력으로 건강을 되찾았다' (Despite being frail as a child, he regained his health through steady effort). You'll see this word in news reports discussing societal vulnerabilities.

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At the C1 level, you should be able to use 허약하다 and its derivatives (허약함, 허약성) in academic and professional contexts. You can analyze systemic 'frailty' in economics, politics, or infrastructure. For example, you might write about the '허약한 시장 구조' (frail market structure) or the '허약한 안보 체제' (frail security system). You should understand the historical and cultural connotations, such as why Korean society places such high value on overcoming a 허약한 체질. Your usage should reflect an understanding of register, knowing when to use 허약하다 versus more specialized terms like 취약하다 (to be vulnerable) depending on the subject matter.

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At the C2 level, you have a masterly command of 허약하다. You can use it to describe subtle nuances in literature or philosophy, perhaps discussing the 'intrinsic frailty of human existence.' You can effortlessly switch between its literal medical meaning and its most abstract metaphorical applications. You are aware of the word's Hanja roots and can perhaps even recognize related words like 허례허식 (empty formalities) that share the same 'empty' character. Your speech and writing use the word with perfect precision, perhaps critiquing the '허약한 논리' (frail logic) of an argument or the '허약한 행정력' (frail administrative power) of a government body with the same ease as describing a patient's condition.

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Pratique Exemplos Notas e dicas

허약하다 em 30 segundos

허약하다 means to be physically weak or frail, usually referring to one's long-term health or body type rather than a temporary state.
It comes from Hanja meaning 'empty' and 'weak,' suggesting a lack of inner vitality or a delicate constitution.
Commonly used in medical, parenting, and formal contexts to describe people, but can also describe weak systems or structures metaphorically.
It is different from the general word '약하다' because it specifically focuses on health, resilience, and foundational strength.

The Korean adjective 허약하다 (heoyakhada) is a cornerstone word for describing physical vulnerability. While English speakers might simply say someone is 'weak,' Korean distinguishes between different types of weakness. 허약하다 specifically targets a lack of physical constitution, vitality, or robustness. It is derived from the Hanja characters 虛 (empty/void) and 弱 (weak). This etymological root suggests a state where the body's essential energy or substance is lacking, leaving one prone to illness or fatigue.

Physical Constitution: It is most frequently paired with the word 체질 (chejil), meaning 'body type' or 'constitution.' A person who catches colds easily or tires quickly is often described as having a 허약한 체질.

어릴 때부터 몸이 허약해서 병원에 자주 갔어요. (I was physically frail since I was young, so I went to the hospital often.)

In a broader social context, you will hear this word in pharmacies, hospitals, and within family discussions about health. It carries a nuance of concern. Unlike the general word 약하다, which can apply to a weak signal, a weak mind, or a weak wall, 허약하다 is deeply personal and biological. When a parent says their child is 허약하다, they are usually implying the need for restorative medicine (보약) or a change in diet to build up strength.

Distinction from Illness: Being 허약하다 doesn't necessarily mean you are currently sick with a virus; it describes a baseline state of being delicate or lacking the stamina that a healthy person should have.

그는 겉보기에는 건강해 보이지만 실제로는 매우 허약하다. (He looks healthy on the outside, but in reality, he is very frail.)

Furthermore, in metaphorical contexts, it can describe systems or structures that lack a solid foundation. For example, a country's 'frail economy' or a 'weak security system' can be described as 허약하다. This implies that the internal structure is not robust enough to withstand external pressure. However, the primary usage remains centered on human health and vitality.

Nuance of Frailty: The word evokes an image of someone who is thin, pale, or easily exhausted. It is less about 'muscle strength' and more about 'life force' and 'resilience.'

노인들은 기력이 떨어지고 몸이 허약해지기 쉽습니다. (The elderly are prone to losing their energy and becoming physically frail.)

Using 허약하다 requires understanding its grammatical flexibility as a descriptive verb (adjective). It follows standard Korean conjugation patterns for adjectives ending in -하다. In daily conversation, you will most often use the polite informal form 허약해요 or the past tense 허약했어요. Because it describes a state, it is frequently used to modify nouns in the form 허약한 (e.g., 허약한 아이 - a frail child).

Describing Current State: To describe someone's current condition, use the subject marker -이/가 with 몸 (body) or 기력 (vitality).

요즘 제 몸이 너무 허약해서 운동을 시작하려고 해요. (My body is so frail lately that I'm planning to start exercising.)

When emphasizing the cause or reason for a subsequent action, the -아/어서 (because) or -(으)니까 (since) connectors are common. For instance, if someone cannot join a strenuous activity like hiking due to their physical state, they would use 허약해서 to explain their limitation. It sounds more formal and medically precise than just saying 힘이 없어서 (because I have no strength).

Modifying Nouns: Use 허약한 before nouns to identify a specific group or type. This is very common in medical or academic writing regarding public health.

허약한 노인들을 위한 특별 식단이 필요합니다. (A special diet is needed for frail elderly people.)

In formal settings, such as news reports or academic papers, you might see the noun form 허약함 (frailty) or 허약성 (frailness/vulnerability). For example, '국방의 허약성' (the vulnerability of national defense). This transition from physical to abstract demonstrates the word's versatility in high-level Korean discourse. However, for an A2 learner, focus on the physical health aspect.

Comparison with '약하다': While 약하다 is the general word for 'weak,' 허약하다 is more specific to health. You wouldn't say a coffee is 허약하다; you would say it's 연하다 or 약하다.

그 아이는 마음은 강하지만 몸은 허약합니다. (That child is strong in spirit, but physically frail.)

Understanding the context of 허약하다 helps in recognizing it in real-life Korean environments. You are most likely to encounter this word in four specific domains: healthcare, parenting, historical dramas (Sa-geuk), and news reporting. Each domain uses the word with a slightly different flavor, but the core meaning of 'frailty' remains constant.

In the Pharmacy (Yak-guk): Pharmacists often use this word when recommending supplements. They might ask, '평소에 체질이 허약하신 편인가요?' (Are you usually the frail type?). This is a polite way to ask about your general health resilience.

이 약은 허약한 사람들에게 기력을 보충해 줍니다. (This medicine restores energy to those who are frail.)

In Korean parenting culture, there is a strong emphasis on 'building the body.' Parents often worry if their child is 허약하다 because they believe it will lead to stunted growth or poor academic performance. You'll hear mothers discussing their children's health, saying things like, '우리 애가 몸이 좀 허약해서 걱정이에요' (I'm worried because my child is a bit frail). This often leads to the purchase of 한약 (traditional Korean herbal medicine).

In Historical Dramas (Sageuk): A classic trope in Korean historical dramas involves a 'frail prince' or a 'delicate queen' who is often the target of political plots because of their 허약한 health. Characters will speak of the royal person's 옥체 (ok-che - royal body) being 허약하다.

세자 저하의 몸이 허약하시니 각별히 보살펴야 한다. (Since the Crown Prince's body is frail, we must look after him with special care.)

Lastly, the news media uses it to describe institutional weaknesses. When a bridge collapses or a financial crisis occurs, reporters might criticize the 허약한 지반 (weak foundation) or 허약한 금융 구조 (weak financial structure). This usage is more formal and abstract, but it's very common in written news reports and documentaries.

News Context: Reporters use it to highlight systemic vulnerabilities that need urgent attention or reform.

이번 사고로 우리 사회의 허약한 안전 관리가 드러났습니다. (This accident revealed the frail safety management of our society.)

When learning 허약하다, English speakers often fall into a few common traps due to the broad nature of the English word 'weak.' In Korean, 'weakness' is sliced into specific categories, and using 허약하다 in the wrong context can sound very unnatural or even confusing to a native speaker.

Mistake 1: Using it for non-living objects: While we can say a 'weak chair' in English, you should not say 허약한 의자. For physical objects that are not sturdy, use 약하다 or 부실하다. 허약하다 is primarily for biological entities or large-scale systems.

❌ 이 책상은 허약해요.
✅ 이 책상은 약해요 / 흔들려요. (This desk is weak/wobbly.)

Another frequent error involves describing someone's personality or lack of mental strength. If someone is 'weak-willed' or 'soft-hearted,' 허약하다 is not the right choice. Instead, use 마음이 약하다 (weak-hearted) or 의지가 약하다 (weak-willed). Using 허약하다 here would incorrectly imply they have a physical illness or a frail body.

Mistake 2: Confusing with 'Mental Weakness': Focus on the 'body' (몸) when using 허약하다. If you want to talk about someone's character, stick to 약하다.

❌ 그는 의지가 허약하다.
✅ 그는 의지가 약하다. (His will is weak.)

A third mistake is using 허약하다 to describe 'weak light' or 'weak sound.' In these cases, Korean uses 희미하다 (dim/faint) or simply 작다 (small/quiet). 허약하다 is far too heavy a word for a dim lightbulb. Think of 허약하다 as having a 'medical' or 'foundational' weight to it.

Mistake 3: Sensory Weakness: Do not use it for light, sound, or smell. Those use sensory-specific adjectives.

❌ 불빛이 허약하다.
✅ 불빛이 약하다 / 희미하다. (The light is weak/faint.)

To truly master 허약하다, you must see how it sits alongside its synonyms. Korean has a rich vocabulary for 'weakness,' each with a specific flavor. Choosing the right one makes your Korean sound much more natural and sophisticated.

약하다 (Yakhada): The most general word for 'weak.' It can be used for physical strength, materials, light, wind, and personality. It is the 'safe' word but lacks the medical specificity of 허약하다.
연약하다 (Yeonyakhada): This means 'soft and weak' or 'delicate.' It is often used to describe flowers, a woman's hands, or a fragile emotional state. It has a more poetic or aesthetic nuance than 허약하다.
가냘프다 (Ganyalpeuda): Meaning 'slender and feeble.' It describes a very thin and delicate appearance, often in a way that evokes a desire to protect the person.

그녀는 연약해 보이지만 내면은 강하다. (She looks delicate, but she is strong inside.)

In a more clinical or critical sense, you might use 부실하다 (busilhada). This means 'shaky,' 'poor,' or 'inadequate.' While 허약하다 describes a lack of health, 부실하다 often implies a lack of proper preparation or substance. For example, a 'poorly prepared meal' is 부실한 식사, and a 'shaky building' is 부실한 건물.

Comparison Table

허약: Focus on health/constitution (biological).
약함: General weakness (universal).
연약: Delicacy/softness (aesthetic/emotional).
부실: Inadequacy/shakiness (structural/functional).

기초가 부실하면 건물이 무너질 수 있다. (If the foundation is shaky/inadequate, the building can collapse.)

Finally, consider 쇠약하다 (soeyakhada). This is a more advanced word meaning 'to become weak and withered,' usually due to old age or a long-term illness. It is more severe than 허약하다 and implies a decline from a previously stronger state.

How Formal Is It?

Curiosidade

The character 虛 (허) is the same one used in '허무하다' (to be futile/empty) and '허공' (empty air/void). It emphasizes that the weakness comes from within.

Guia de pronúncia

UK /hʌ.jak.ha.da/

US /hʌ.jɑk.hɑ.dɑ/

The primary stress is on the first syllable '허' (Heo), with a secondary stress on '하' (Ha).

Rima com

서약하다 (To pledge) 조약하다 (To be crude/rough) 취약하다 (To be vulnerable) 비약하다 (To leap/jump) 기약하다 (To promise/expect) 공약하다 (To make a public pledge) 계약하다 (To contract) 심약하다 (To be weak-hearted)

Erros comuns

Pronouncing '허' like 'He' (as in 'he is'). It should be an open 'eo' sound.
Making the 'k' in 'yak' too strong. It should be a crisp, unreleased stop.
Pronouncing '하' like 'hay'. It should be 'ha' like in 'hot'.
Confusing '허약' with '회약'. Ensure the 'eo' sound is clear.
Skipping the 'h' in 'hada' after the 'k' in 'yak'. In fast speech, they blend, but the aspiration should remain.

Nível de dificuldade

Leitura 2/5

The word is common in health contexts and easy to recognize once the Hanja root is known.

Escrita 3/5

Requires understanding how to use it as a modifier (허약한) vs a predicate (허약하다).

Expressão oral 2/5

Pronunciation is straightforward, but must be distinguished from '약하다'.

Audição 2/5

Commonly heard in dramas and daily health talk.

O que aprender depois

Pré-requisitos

약하다 (weak) 몸 (body) 아프다 (to be sick) 건강 (health)

Aprenda a seguir

쇠약하다 (to be emaciated) 취약하다 (to be vulnerable) 강인하다 (to be strong/tough)

Avançado

면역력 (immunity) 기력 (vitality) 신진대사 (metabolism)

Gramática essencial

Adjective + -아/어지다 (Becoming...)

몸이 허약해졌어요. (My body has become frail.)

Adjective + -ㄴ/은 (Noun Modifier)

허약한 아이가 울고 있어요. (The frail child is crying.)

Adjective + -기 때문에 (Because...)

허약하기 때문에 무리하면 안 돼요. (Because you are frail, you shouldn't overdo it.)

Adjective + -아/어서 (Reason)

몸이 허약해서 병원에 갔어요. (I went to the hospital because my body was frail.)

Adjective + -지만 (Contrast)

몸은 허약하지만 정신은 건강해요. (My body is frail, but my spirit is healthy.)

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Exemplos por nível

저는 몸이 허약해요.

I am physically frail.

Subject (몸) + Marker (이) + Adjective (허약해요).

동생은 허약한 아이예요.

My younger sibling is a frail child.

Adjective modifying noun: 허약한 + 아이.

몸이 허약해서 병원에 가요.

I go to the hospital because my body is frail.

-아서/어서 connector for reason.

그는 조금 허약합니다.

He is a bit frail.

Formal polite ending -습니다.

허약한 사람은 조심해야 해요.

Frail people must be careful.

-해야 하다 (must/should).

아기가 허약해서 걱정이에요.

I'm worried because the baby is frail.

Noun + -이/가 + 걱정이다.

우리 강아지는 허약해요.

Our puppy is frail.

Used for animals as well.

어릴 때 허약했어요.

I was frail when I was young.

Past tense -았/었-.

허약한 체질을 고치고 싶어요.

I want to fix my frail constitution.

Object marker -을/를 with '고치다' (to fix).

그는 몸이 허약하지만 마음은 강해요.

His body is frail, but his mind is strong.

-지만 (but) contrasting two states.

겨울에는 허약한 사람들이 감기에 잘 걸려요.

In winter, frail people catch colds easily.

감기에 걸리다 (to catch a cold).

운동을 안 하면 몸이 허약해져요.

If you don't exercise, your body becomes frail.

-아/어지다 (to become).

허약한 노인을 도와주세요.

Please help the frail elderly person.

Imperative -아/어 주세요.

그는 허약해서 무거운 것을 못 들어요.

He is frail, so he can't lift heavy things.

못 (cannot) + verb.

건강을 위해 허약한 몸을 관리하세요.

Manage your frail body for your health.

-을/를 위해 (for the sake of).

그 아이는 태어날 때부터 허약했습니다.

That child has been frail since birth.

태어날 때부터 (since birth).

허약한 기초 때문에 건물이 위험해요.

The building is dangerous because of the frail foundation.

Metaphorical use for structures.

환자가 너무 허약해서 수술을 미뤘어요.

The patient was too frail, so the surgery was postponed.

미루다 (to postpone).

기력이 허약해진 노인들에게 보약이 좋습니다.

Restorative medicine is good for the elderly whose energy has become frail.

Noun modification with -ㄴ.

그 나라는 경제 구조가 매우 허약합니다.

That country's economic structure is very frail.

Abstract usage in economics.

허약한 정신력을 기르기 위해 명상을 합니다.

I meditate to build up my frail mental strength.

정신력 (mental strength).

그는 허약한 체력을 보충하려고 매일 걷습니다.

He walks every day to supplement his frail physical strength.

보충하다 (to supplement).

허약해진 몸을 회복하는 데 시간이 걸려요.

It takes time to recover a body that has become frail.

-는 데 (in doing something/the act of).

이 지역은 재난에 허약한 편입니다.

This area tends to be frail (vulnerable) to disasters.

-ㄴ 편이다 (tend to be).

정부는 허약한 사회 안전망을 강화해야 한다.

The government must strengthen the frail social safety net.

강화하다 (to strengthen).

오랜 병치레로 인해 그는 매우 허약해져 있었다.

Due to a long illness, he had become very frail.

-로 인해 (due to).

허약한 논리로는 상대를 설득할 수 없다.

You cannot persuade the opponent with frail logic.

논리 (logic).

그 식물은 줄기가 허약해서 지지대가 필요하다.

The plant has a frail stem and needs a support.

지지대 (support/prop).

허약한 의지로는 금연에 성공하기 어렵다.

It is difficult to succeed in quitting smoking with a frail will.

금연 (quitting smoking).

그는 허약한 신체적 조건을 극복하고 금메달을 땄다.

He overcame his frail physical condition and won a gold medal.

극복하다 (to overcome).

허약한 보안 시스템이 해킹의 원인이 되었다.

The frail security system was the cause of the hacking.

보안 시스템 (security system).

그녀의 허약한 목소리가 방 안을 채웠다.

Her frail voice filled the room.

목소리 (voice).

근본적으로 허약한 재무 구조가 기업의 파산을 불러왔다.

The fundamentally frail financial structure led to the company's bankruptcy.

재무 구조 (financial structure).

이 정책은 허약한 계층을 보호하기 위해 설계되었다.

This policy was designed to protect the frail (vulnerable) classes.

계층 (social class/layer).

허약한 인프라가 경제 성장의 발목을 잡고 있다.

Frail infrastructure is holding back economic growth.

발목을 잡다 (to hold back - idiom).

그 학설은 허약한 근거 위에 세워져 있다.

That theory is built upon frail evidence.

근거 (grounds/evidence).

그는 자신의 허약함을 감추기 위해 공격적으로 행동했다.

He acted aggressively to hide his own frailty.

감추다 (to hide/conceal).

허약한 자아 존중감은 대인 관계에 부정적인 영향을 미친다.

Frail self-esteem negatively affects interpersonal relationships.

자아 존중감 (self-esteem).

국가의 허약한 행정력이 재난 피해를 키웠다.

The state's frail administrative power exacerbated the disaster damage.

행정력 (administrative power).

허약한 도덕성이 사회적 갈등을 유발한다.

Frail morality causes social conflicts.

유발하다 (to cause/trigger).

실존적 허약함이야말로 인간이 예술을 창조하는 동력이다.

Existential frailty is the very driving force behind human artistic creation.

실존적 (existential).

그 정권의 허약한 정통성이 끊임없는 저항을 불러일으켰다.

The regime's frail legitimacy sparked constant resistance.

정통성 (legitimacy).

지식의 허약한 토대 위에 세워진 확신은 위험하다.

Conviction built upon a frail foundation of knowledge is dangerous.

토대 (foundation/basis).

생태계의 허약한 균형이 기후 변화로 인해 무너지고 있다.

The ecosystem's frail balance is collapsing due to climate change.

균형 (balance).

그 작가는 인간 영혼의 허약함을 섬세하게 묘사했다.

The author delicately portrayed the frailty of the human soul.

묘사하다 (to portray/depict).

허약한 계약 관계는 작은 오해로도 쉽게 파기될 수 있다.

A frail contractual relationship can be easily terminated even by a small misunderstanding.

파기되다 (to be terminated/nullified).

현대 문명의 허약한 단면이 전염병 확산으로 드러났다.

A frail aspect of modern civilization was revealed by the spread of the epidemic.

단면 (cross-section/aspect).

그는 허약한 심신을 달래기 위해 산사로 떠났다.

He left for a mountain temple to soothe his frail mind and body.

심신 (mind and body).

Colocações comuns

허약 체질

몸이 허약하다

허약한 노인

기력이 허약하다

심신이 허약하다

허약한 근거

경제적 허약성

허약한 지반

선천적 허약

허약한 안전망

Frases Comuns

허약한 아이

— A child who is physically delicate or sickly.

그는 어릴 때 아주 허약한 아이였다.

몸이 허약해지다

— To become physically frail or weak over time.

나이가 들면서 몸이 점점 허약해졌다.

허약한 상태

— A state or condition of being frail.

환자는 현재 매우 허약한 상태입니다.

허약한 구조

— A weak or unstable structure (literal or metaphorical).

이 건물은 허약한 구조로 지어졌다.

정신이 허약하다

— To have a weak or fragile mind/spirit.

그는 몸보다 정신이 더 허약해 보였다.

허약함을 느끼다

— To feel frail or lacking in strength.

갑자기 자신의 허약함을 뼈저리게 느꼈다.

허약함을 극복하다

— To overcome one's physical frailty.

꾸준한 운동으로 허약함을 극복했다.

허약한 계층

— Vulnerable or frail groups of people in society.

정부는 허약한 계층을 먼저 지원했다.

허약한 기반

— A weak foundation or basis.

허약한 기반 위에 세워진 계획은 실패한다.

허약한 목소리

— A feeble or weak-sounding voice.

그는 허약한 목소리로 도움을 요청했다.

Frequentemente confundido com

허약하다 vs 약하다

General weakness vs. physical frailty (허약하다).

허약하다 vs 연약하다

Delicacy/softness vs. physical health frailty (허약하다).

허약하다 vs 나약하다

Mental/spiritual weakness vs. physical frailty (허약하다).

Expressões idiomáticas

"바람만 불어도 넘어질 것 같다"

— To be so frail that one might fall over even if the wind blows.

그녀는 너무 허약해서 바람만 불어도 넘어질 것 같아.

Informal/Exaggerated

"기력이 바닥나다"

— To have one's energy completely drained (often used with frailty).

허약한 체질이라 기력이 금방 바닥나요.

Neutral

"뼈만 남다"

— To be skin and bones (extremely frail and thin).

병을 앓고 나서 허약해져 뼈만 남았다.

Informal

"맥을 못 추다"

— To be unable to gather strength or to be completely overwhelmed.

그는 몸이 허약해서 더위에는 맥을 못 춘다.

Colloquial

"종이 인형 같다"

— To be like a paper doll (describing someone very thin and frail).

저 아이는 너무 허약해서 종이 인형 같아.

Informal

"가을바람에 낙엽 같다"

— To be like a fallen leaf in the autumn wind (fragile and easily moved).

허약한 노인의 모습이 가을바람에 낙엽 같았다.

Literary

"모래성 같다"

— To be like a sandcastle (describing a weak or frail structure).

그들의 계획은 허약한 기반 때문에 모래성 같다.

Neutral

"실낱같다"

— To be as thin as a thread (often describing a frail life or hope).

허약한 환자의 숨소리가 실낱같았다.

Literary

"병든 닭 같다"

— To look like a sick chicken (describing someone looking frail and listless).

잠을 못 자서 허약한 병든 닭처럼 앉아 있다.

Slang/Informal

"기진맥진하다"

— To be exhausted and have no strength left.

허약한 몸으로 산을 오르니 기진맥진했다.

Neutral

Fácil de confundir

허약하다 vs 쇠약하다

Both mean weak.

쇠약하다 implies a decline or wasting away, often due to age or disease, whereas 허약하다 can be a natural constitution.

병으로 몸이 쇠약해지셨다. (His body became emaciated/declined due to illness.)

허약하다 vs 취약하다

Both mean vulnerable/weak.

취약하다 is mostly used for systems, security, or being 'vulnerable' to something specific, not general health.

보안에 취약하다. (Vulnerable to security breaches.)

허약하다 vs 부실하다

Both mean weak/inadequate.

부실하다 implies a lack of proper substance or preparation (e.g., a shaky building or a poor meal).

식사가 부실하다. (The meal is inadequate.)

허약하다 vs 가냘프다

Both describe a weak appearance.

가냘프다 focuses on being thin and delicate in a visual, often feminine or fragile way.

가냘픈 손가락. (Slender fingers.)

허약하다 vs 희미하다

Can be translated as 'weak' in English.

Used for light, sound, or memory being faint, never for physical health.

기억이 희미하다. (The memory is faint.)

Padrões de frases

S + 몸이 허약해요.

저는 몸이 허약해요.

허약한 + Noun

허약한 아이들이 많아요.

S + 허약해서 + V-지 못해요.

그는 허약해서 일을 하지 못해요.

S-이/가 + 허약해지기 쉽다.

노인은 몸이 허약해지기 쉽다.

허약한 + Abstract Noun + -이/가 드러나다.

허약한 경제 구조가 드러났다.

허약함이야말로 ~이다.

인간의 허약함이야말로 사랑의 근거이다.

체질이 허약한 편이다.

동생은 체질이 허약한 편이에요.

허약한 몸을 위해 ~.

허약한 몸을 위해 보약을 먹어요.

Família de palavras

Substantivos

허약 (Frailty/Weakness)

허약자 (Frail person)

허약성 (Frailness/Vulnerability)

허약함 (Weakness/Frailness)

Verbos

허약해지다 (To become frail)

Adjetivos

허약하다 (To be frail)

Relacionado

약하다 (To be weak)

쇠약 (Decline/Emaciation)

병약 (Sickliness/Frailty)

연약 (Delicacy)

취약 (Vulnerability)

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Como usar

frequency

Common in medical, parenting, and formal contexts; moderate in general daily life.

Erros comuns

이 차는 허약해요. → 이 차는 약해요.
Don't use '허약하다' for mechanical strength or objects. Use '약하다'.
그는 수학이 허약하다. → 그는 수학이 약하다.
To be bad at a subject, use '약하다'. '허약하다' is for health.
허약한 불빛. → 약한 불빛 / 희미한 불빛.
Don't use '허약하다' for light intensity.
마음이 허약해요. → 마음이 약해요.
Use '마음이 약하다' for being soft-hearted or emotionally sensitive.
의지가 허약하다. → 의지가 나약하다 / 약하다.
For a weak will, '나약하다' is the more precise formal term.

Dicas

Noun Modification

Always use '허약한' before a noun. Example: '허약한 사람' (A frail person).

Restorative Medicine

In Korea, if someone is '허약하다', the common suggestion is to eat '보약' (herbal tonic).

The 'Empty' Root

Remember the 'Heo' (Empty) to distinguish it from general 'Yak' (Weakness).

Medical Context

Use it when discussing long-term health rather than just being tired after a day of work.

Formal Use

Use '허약성' in academic writing to describe systemic vulnerabilities.

Soft 'H'

The 'h' in 'hada' is pronounced, but it can be light after the 'k' in 'yak'.

Avoid 'Weak Will'

Don't use '허약하다' for someone who can't make decisions; use '우유부단하다' or '마음이 약하다'.

Describing the Elderly

'허약하다' is a respectful yet precise way to describe the physical state of the elderly.

Structural Frailty

When describing a company's finances, '허약하다' implies a lack of solid capital.

Heo-Yak = Hollow-Weak

Think of a 'Hollow' tree being 'Weak' (Heo-Yak).

Memorize

Mnemônico

Imagine a person who is 'Heo' (Hollow/Empty) and 'Yak' (Weak). They are so empty of energy that they are 'Heo-yak-hada'.

Associação visual

Picture a very thin, pale person leaning against a wall because they are too frail to stand on their own.

Word Web

Body (몸) Health (건강) Constitution (체질) Medicine (약) Energy (기력) Frail (연약) Vulnerable (취약) Elderly (노인)

Desafio

Try to use '허약하다' in a sentence describing a time you felt physically weak, perhaps after a long day or when you had a cold.

Origem da palavra

Composed of two Hanja (Sino-Korean) characters: 虛 (허) and 弱 (약).

Significado original: 虛 (Empty/Void) + 弱 (Weak/Feeble). Together, they describe a state of being weak because of an internal 'emptiness' or lack of vital substance.

Sino-Korean (Hanja-based vocabulary).

Contexto cultural

While it's a common medical/health term, calling someone '허약하다' directly to their face can sometimes be seen as pointing out a flaw, so it's often used with a tone of concern.

English speakers might use 'frail' mostly for the elderly, but '허약하다' is very commonly used for children and young adults in Korea.

King Danjong of the Joseon Dynasty is often portrayed as '허약한' (frail) in historical dramas. The term '허약 체질' is a common trope in K-dramas for the 'weak but smart' character. Traditional Korean medicine texts (like Dongui Bogam) frequently discuss treatments for '허약'.

Pratique na vida real

Contextos reais

At the Doctor's

몸이 허약해요.
체질이 허약한가요?
기력이 허약해졌어요.
허약 체질 개선.

Talking about Children

아이가 너무 허약해요.
허약한 아이를 위한 음식.
어릴 때 허약했어요.
허약해서 걱정이에요.

Formal Reports

허약한 사회 안전망.
경제 구조의 허약성.
허약한 기반 시설.
재정 상태가 허약하다.

Elderly Care

허약한 노인 지원.
기력이 허약하신 분.
허약해진 부모님.
노년기 허약 예방.

Self-Reflection

내 자신이 허약하게 느껴진다.
허약함을 극복하고 싶다.
정신적으로 허약하다.
허약한 나를 채찍질하다.

Iniciadores de conversa

"요즘 몸이 좀 허약해진 것 같은데, 좋은 운동 추천해 줄래? (I feel like I've become a bit frail lately, can you recommend some good exercises?)"

"어릴 때 몸이 허약한 편이었어? (Were you the frail type when you were young?)"

"우리 애가 너무 허약해서 걱정인데, 보약이 효과가 있을까? (I'm worried because my child is so frail, would restorative medicine work?)"

"겨울만 되면 몸이 허약해지는 기분이야. 너는 어때? (I feel like my body gets frail every winter. How about you?)"

"허약한 체질을 바꾸려면 식습관이 중요할까? (Is diet important for changing a frail constitution?)"

Temas para diário

내가 가장 허약하다고 느꼈던 순간은 언제인가요? (When was the moment you felt the most frail?)

허약한 체질을 극복하기 위해 내가 할 수 있는 노력은 무엇일까요? (What efforts can I make to overcome a frail constitution?)

우리 사회의 가장 허약한 부분은 어디라고 생각하나요? (Where do you think is the frailest part of our society?)

정신적으로 허약해질 때 나를 지탱해 주는 것은 무엇인가요? (What supports you when you become mentally frail?)

건강한 삶과 허약한 삶의 차이는 무엇이라고 생각하나요? (What do you think is the difference between a healthy life and a frail life?)

Perguntas frequentes

10 perguntas

No, for coffee or flavors, use '연하다' (light/weak) or '약하다'. 허약하다 is for health or systems.

Not necessarily. It's often used with concern. However, calling someone 허약하다 might imply they are sickly, so use it carefully.

약하다 is general (weak wind, weak mind). 허약하다 is specifically physical frailty or constitutional weakness.

It's better to say '부실한 건물' (shaky/poorly built) or '약한 건물'. 허약하다 is usually for living things or abstract systems.

Use '허약해지고 있어요' (I am becoming frail).

Yes, '허약' is the noun form. You can say '허약 체질' (frail constitution).

It means 'empty' or 'void,' suggesting the weakness comes from a lack of internal strength.

You can say '정신이 허약하다', but '마음이 약하다' (weak-hearted) or '의지가 나약하다' (weak-willed) are more common for personality.

Yes, very often to describe 'frail economic structures' or 'weak safety nets'.

The most direct opposites are '튼튼하다' (sturdy/robust) or '건강하다' (healthy).

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