등잔 밑이 어둡다
deungjan mit-i eoduepdaTo overlook or neglect something obvious or important that is right in front of you, often due to being too focused on other things.
등잔 밑이 어둡다더니, 내가 방에 들어올 때 문이 열려 있었다는 걸 전혀 몰랐어.
I didn't notice the door was open when I entered the room, which is like the saying 'the light under the bushel.'
회사에서 중요한 문서를 잃어버렸는데, 결국 책상 서랍에서 발견했어. 등잔 밑이 어둡다.
I lost an important document at work, but eventually found it in my desk drawer. It was right under my nose.
This proverb is often used to humorously or critically point out someone's oversight of something obvious.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Related Phrases
💡Pro Tip
Common Usage Context
This proverb is often used in a lighthearted or self-deprecating way to admit one's own oversight, rather than to criticize others harshly.
⚡Gold Rule
Avoid Overuse
While this proverb is useful, using it too frequently can make your speech sound repetitive or unnatural.
📖Word Origin
The proverb originates from the idea that the area directly under a lamp (등잔) is often the darkest because the light is shining upward, making it hard to see what's right beneath it. This metaphorically represents overlooking what's obvious.
📝Usage Notes
This expression is commonly used in everyday conversations to gently point out someone's oversight or to acknowledge one's own mistake in missing something obvious.