Meaning and Usage
The Korean noun '과로' refers to excessive fatigue or overstrain, often caused by working too hard or not resting enough. It is commonly used in medical or workplace contexts to describe a state where the body or mind is overwhelmed by continuous effort.
Common Collocations
- 과로로 입원하다: to be hospitalized due to overfatigue
- 과로하다: to overwork or overstrain oneself
- 과로로 인한: caused by overfatigue
These collocations highlight how '과로' is often linked to health issues and the need for rest.
Register and Politeness
'과로' is a formal noun used in both spoken and written Korean, especially in professional or medical settings. It is neutral in politeness but often appears in polite advice or warnings.
Usage Tips
When using '과로', speakers imply a serious level of tiredness that can affect health. It is not used for casual tiredness but for extreme exhaustion. Avoid confusing '과로' with simple fatigue (피로), which is less severe. For example, '과로로 병원에 가다' means going to the hospital because of overstrain, not just feeling a bit tired.
Understanding '과로' helps learners talk about health and work-life balance realistically and respectfully.