노력한 결과는 무너지지 않는다

noryeokan gyeolgwa-neun mureonjiji aneundaproverb
effort bears lasting fruit

그는 매일 노력한 결과는 무너지지 않는다며 꿋꿋이 공부했다.

He studied diligently, saying that the results of his daily efforts would never crumble.


What It Really Means
The phrase metaphorically describes that the outcomes of sustained effort are enduring and unshakable, even in adversity. It conveys psychological resilience and the belief that hard work leads to permanent, valuable results.
Literal Meaning
The results of effort do not collapse.
Literal Breakdown
노력한having made an effort+결과result+topic marker (emphasizing the result)+무너지지 않는다does not crumble
Mental Image
Imagine a building constructed with great care and effort—its foundation is so strong that it cannot be toppled, symbolizing achievements built on persistent labor.
When to Use
A student fails an exam but remembers this phrase while preparing to retake it. They remind themselves that their months of studying won’t be wasted, even if the immediate outcome is disappointing.
Cultural Note
The proverb reflects Korea’s historical emphasis on education and perseverance, influenced by Confucian ideals. It’s a staple in motivational speeches and parental advice, often paired with stories of historical figures who overcame adversity through diligence.
formal

Hard work yields results that remain intact over time, emphasizing perseverance and the enduring value of effort.

수년간의 노력한 결과는 무너지지 않는다며 그녀는 사업을 포기하지 않았다.

She didn’t give up on her business, insisting that years of effort would not crumble.

시험에 떨어졌지만 노력한 결과는 무너지지 않는다며 다시 도전할 거야.

Even though I failed the exam, I’ll try again, knowing my efforts won’t crumble.

Often used to encourage perseverance in the face of setbacks, implying that sustained effort leads to unshakable achievements.

Related Phrases

고진감래proverb
after hardship comes happiness
산 넘어 산proverb
one mountain after another (endless challenges)

Pro Tip

Cultural Context

This proverb aligns with the Korean value of '근면성실' (diligence and sincerity). It’s often cited in educational or workplace settings to motivate perseverance despite temporary failures.

Gold Rule

Idiom Usage

Use this phrase when someone faces setbacks but needs reassurance that their effort will not be in vain. Avoid literal interpretations (e.g., physical structures crumbling); focus on metaphorical endurance.

Word Origin

The phrase combines '노력하다' (to make an effort) and '결과' (result) with the negative construction '무너지지 않는다' (does not crumble). It reflects a cultural emphasis on perseverance and the belief that true effort leads to lasting outcomes, rooted in Confucian values of diligence and resilience.

Usage Notes

Commonly used in motivational contexts, such as academic or professional struggles, to emphasize that persistent effort will not be wasted. The phrase carries a philosophical tone, suggesting that meaningful results are built on solid foundations.

Word Breakdown

노력한
past tense of '노력하다' (to make an effort)
verb + suffix
+
결과
result
noun
+
topic marker (emphasizes the subject)
particle
+
무너지지 않는다
does not crumble
verb + negative + auxiliary verb
한영사전