성공은 노력의 결과다

seong-gong-eun no-ryeok-ui gyeol-gwa-da◆proverb
Success is the result of effort

그는 매일 아침 5시에 일어나서 성공을 위해 노력했다. 결국 성공은 노력의 결과다.

He woke up at 5 AM every morning and worked hard for success. In the end, success is the result of effort.

◆ What It Really Means
Success cannot be achieved without persistent hard work and dedication. It emphasizes the causal relationship between effort and achievement.
Literal Meaning
Success is the result of effort.
Literal Breakdown
성공success+은is+노력effort+의's+결과result+다(copula)
◇ Mental Image
A seed planted and nurtured with consistent watering and sunlight eventually grows into a strong tree. The effort directly produces the result.
◈ When to Use
A student studies diligently for years and eventually passes a difficult exam. When congratulated, they respond '성공은 노력의 결과다' to acknowledge their hard work.
◉ Cultural Note
This proverb embodies the Korean cultural value of '근면' (diligence) and '인내' (perseverance), which are seen as essential for personal growth and societal progress. It's often taught from childhood and reinforced in schools and workplaces.
formal

Achievement comes only through persistent hard work and dedication.

그녀는 자신의 꿈을 이루기 위해 10년 동안 노력했다. 성공은 노력의 결과다.

She worked hard for 10 years to achieve her dream. Success is the result of effort.

Often used to encourage perseverance or acknowledge someone's hard work leading to success.

Related Phrases

시작이 반이다proverb
Well begun is half done

Pro Tip

Cultural Context

This proverb reflects Korea's strong Confucian work ethic, where diligence and perseverance are highly valued virtues. It's often cited in educational contexts to motivate students.

Gold Rule

Usage Rule

Use this proverb when emphasizing that success requires sustained effort rather than luck or talent alone. Avoid using it when discussing systemic barriers to success.

Word Origin

The phrase combines '성공' (success) + '노력' (effort) + '결과' (result) + '다' (copula). It reflects a traditional Korean cultural emphasis on diligence and perseverance as the path to achievement.

Usage Notes

Commonly used in motivational contexts, educational settings, and workplace environments. May sound clichéd if overused.

Word Breakdown

성공
success
noun
+
은
topic marker (is)
particle
+
노력
effort
noun
+
의
possessive marker ('s)
particle
+
결과
result
noun
+
다
copula (is)
verb ending
한영사전