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말은 칼보다 날카롭다

mareun kalboda naldaeropda
proverb★Intermediate— words can be sharper than a knife◆proverb
◆ What It Really Means
Words can cause deep emotional pain, much like a sharp blade.
¶ Literal Meaning
Words are sharper than a knife.
Literal Breakdown
말은words+칼보다than a knife+날카롭다are sharp
◇ Mental Image
The metaphor of a knife cutting deeply represents the emotional pain caused by harsh or critical words.
◈ When to Use
A teacher might use this proverb to remind students to be mindful of their words, as they can leave lasting emotional scars.
◉ Cultural Note
This proverb reflects the Korean cultural value of respectful and considerate speech, as words are seen as powerful tools that can either build or destroy relationships.
literary

Words can be more cutting and damaging than physical weapons, emphasizing the power of speech to hurt or criticize.

진실은 때로는 고통스럽지만, 말은 칼보다 날카롭다.

Truth can sometimes be painful, but words are sharper than a knife.

💡

This proverb highlights the emotional and psychological impact of words, suggesting that verbal criticism or insults can be more damaging than physical harm.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Related Phrases

말은 칼보다 아프다proverb
Words can hurt more than a knife
말은 칼보다 강하다proverb
Words are stronger than a knife

💡Pro Tip

Usage Context

This proverb is often used in literary or philosophical discussions about the power of language.

⚡Gold Rule

Cultural Significance

In Korean culture, this proverb reflects the belief that words have the power to heal or harm, much like a physical weapon.

📖Word Origin

This proverb originates from traditional Korean wisdom, emphasizing the power of words to cause deep emotional pain, much like a sharp blade.

📝Usage Notes

This expression is often used to caution against harsh or careless speech, as words can leave lasting emotional wounds.

Word Breakdown

말은
words
noun
+
칼보다
than a knife
noun
+
날카롭다
are sharp
adjective
한영사전

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