Level 4

신세

sinse

One's financial standing; indebtedness,obligation when helped

TOPIK 4

Meaning and Usage

The Korean word '신세' primarily refers to the state of being indebted or obligated to someone, often because of receiving help or support. It can also imply one's social or financial standing in a humble or dependent context.

Common Contexts

'신세' is frequently used when expressing gratitude or acknowledging a debt of kindness. It often appears in phrases like '신세를 지다' (to be indebted to someone) or '신세를 졌다' (have incurred a debt of gratitude).

Collocations and Patterns

  • 신세를 지다: to be indebted to someone, used when someone has received help or favors.
  • 신세를 졌다: past tense of being indebted, expressing gratitude.
  • 신세 한탄하다: to complain about one's situation or dependence.

Register and Nuance

This word is polite and commonly used in everyday conversation and formal speech when acknowledging help or support. It carries a humble tone, showing respect and appreciation.

Common Mistakes

Learners sometimes confuse '신세' with financial debt only, but it broadly covers social and emotional indebtedness as well. Avoid limiting its use to monetary contexts; it often relates to favors, kindness, or support.

Example Sentences

그 사람 덕분에 큰 신세를 졌어요.

Geu saram deokbune keun sinse reul jyeosseoyo.

I am deeply indebted to that person.

신세를 지다 보니 고마운 마음이 커졌어요.

Sinse reul jida boni gomawoon maeumi keojyeosseoyo.

Having been helped, my gratitude grew.

신세 한탄만 하지 말고 스스로 노력해야 해요.

Sinse hantanman haji malgo seuseuro noryeokhaeya haeyo.

Don’t just complain about your situation; you need to make an effort yourself.