Meaning and Usage
The Korean noun '고생' refers to hardship, suffering, or enduring difficult circumstances. It often implies physical or emotional struggles that someone has experienced.
Common Contexts
'고생' is frequently used to describe someone's difficult life experiences, efforts, or challenges they have overcome. It can be used both in past tense to reflect on hardships endured and in present tense to acknowledge ongoing struggles.
Politeness and Tone
When used in expressions like '고생 많으셨습니다,' it conveys respect and empathy, often said to someone who has worked hard or gone through difficulties. This phrase is polite and commonly used in formal or semi-formal situations.
Common Collocations
- 고생하다: to suffer or endure hardship
- 고생 끝에: after hardship
- 고생 많으셨습니다: thank you for your hard work / you have suffered a lot
Learner Tips
A common mistake is to confuse '고생' with just 'work' or 'effort.' '고생' specifically emphasizes hardship or difficulty, not just any kind of work. Use it when you want to highlight the tough or challenging aspect of an experience.