가까운 것을 멀리 보고 먼 것을 가깝게 본다

gakkaun geot-eul meolli bogo meon geot-eul gakkapge bona
proverbIntermediate to overlook the obvious while focusing on the distantproverb
What It Really Means
To prioritize distant or abstract concerns over immediate, practical ones, often leading to neglect of what is right in front of you.
Literal Meaning
To see what is close as distant and what is distant as close.
Literal Breakdown
가까운 것을 멀리 보고to see what is close as distant+먼 것을 가깝게 본다to see what is distant as close
Mental Image
A visual metaphor of distorted perception, where proximity and distance are reversed, symbolizing misplaced priorities.
When to Use
A manager who ignores current team morale issues to focus on a hypothetical future merger, despite the team's immediate dissatisfaction.
Cultural Note
This proverb reflects a cultural emphasis on practical wisdom and the importance of balancing perspective in decision-making.
literary

To overlook or underestimate what is close or obvious while focusing on or exaggerating what is distant or less important. It describes a tendency to prioritize abstract or distant concerns over practical, immediate ones.

그 사람은 가까운 가족의 감정에 무관심하면서 먼 나라의 정치에만 관심을 보였다.

He was indifferent to the emotions of his close family but showed great interest in the politics of distant countries.

회사는 가까운 고객의 불만을 무시하고 먼 미래의 시장 확장만 추구했다.

The company ignored the complaints of its current customers and pursued only distant market expansion.

💡

This proverb highlights the human tendency to overlook immediate, practical concerns in favor of abstract or distant goals.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Related Phrases

가까운 나무는 숲을 보지 못한다proverb
You can't see the forest for the trees
먼 것을 가깝게 보고 가까운 것을 멀리 본다proverb
To focus on distant things while neglecting what's close

💡Pro Tip

Contextual Use

This proverb is often used in discussions about personal relationships, business decisions, or societal priorities where immediate concerns are neglected.

Gold Rule

Balanced Perspective

Remember to balance your focus on both immediate and distant concerns to avoid neglecting what's right in front of you.

📖Word Origin

This proverb originates from traditional Korean wisdom, emphasizing the importance of balancing perspective and prioritizing practical concerns over abstract or distant ones.

📝Usage Notes

This expression is often used to criticize someone who neglects immediate, practical issues in favor of distant or abstract goals. It can apply to personal, professional, or societal contexts.

Word Breakdown

가까운 것을 멀리 보고
to see what is close as distant
phrase
+
먼 것을 가깝게 본다
to see what is far as close
phrase
한영사전