끝이 중요하다

kkeuchi jungyohadaidiom
the end is what matters most

시험은 끝이 중요해.

What matters most in the exam is the end.


What It Really Means
The final outcome or conclusion of an endeavor is the most significant part, regardless of the challenges faced along the way.
Literal Meaning
The end is important.
Literal Breakdown
end+subject marker+중요하다to be important
Mental Image
Imagine a journey where the destination (end) is the most rewarding part, overshadowing the struggles of the path taken.
When to Use
A student preparing for a difficult exam might say, '시험은 끝이 중요해' to remind themselves that the final exam results matter more than the stress of studying.
Cultural Note
This phrase is deeply rooted in Korean educational culture, where academic success is often measured by final exam scores. It also reflects a broader cultural emphasis on perseverance and dedication to achieving goals.
informal

Emphasizes that the final outcome or conclusion is the most critical part of a process or journey, regardless of the difficulties or efforts in between.

시험은 끝이 중요해. 중간은 실수해도 마지막에 잘만 하면 돼.

What matters in the exam is the end. Even if you make mistakes in the middle, you can do well at the end.

프로젝트는 끝이 중요해. 과정은 힘들어도 결과가 좋아야 해.

What matters in the project is the end. Even if the process is tough, the result must be good.

Often used to encourage perseverance or to justify focusing on the final result over the process.

Related Phrases

결과론적이다phrase
result-oriented (often negative connotation)
끝까지 버티다phrase
to endure until the end

Pro Tip

Cultural Context

This phrase reflects a Korean cultural value where the final outcome is often prioritized over the process. It is commonly used in academic and professional settings to emphasize perseverance and dedication to achieving a goal.

Gold Rule

When to Use

Use this phrase when encouraging someone to focus on the final result or when justifying why the end of a process is the most important part. Avoid using it in contexts where the process itself is valued more than the outcome.

Word Origin

Combination of '끝' (end) and '중요하다' (to be important). The phrase reflects a cultural emphasis on final outcomes in Korean society, often seen in education, work, and personal goals.

Usage Notes

Commonly used in motivational contexts, such as studying, work projects, or personal challenges. It can also be used critically to point out that someone is only focused on the result rather than the effort.

Word Breakdown

end
noun
+
subject marker
particle
+
중요하다
to be important
adjective
한영사전