의지가 있으면 길이 열린다

uiji-ga isseumyeon gil-i yeolrinda◆proverb

Where there's a will, there's a way

그는 의지가 있으면 길이 열린다며 새로운 프로젝트를 시작했다.

He started a new project, saying, 'Where there's a will, there's a way.'

◆ What It Really Means

Determination and perseverance can overcome obstacles and lead to success, even in seemingly impossible situations.

¶ Literal Meaning

If there is will, a path opens.

Literal Breakdown

의지will/volition+가subject marker+있으면if exists+길path/road+이subject marker+열린다opens

◇ Mental Image

A dark, blocked path suddenly opening up when someone with strong determination approaches it, revealing a clear way forward.

◈ When to Use

A student struggling with a difficult exam tells their friend, 'I know it's hard, but 의지가 있으면 길이 열린다. I'll keep studying until I find a way.'

◉ Cultural Note

This proverb aligns with the Korean concept of '정신력' (jeongsinryeok, mental strength) and reflects the cultural value placed on perseverance and self-improvement, influenced by Confucian philosophy.

formal

Success or solutions become possible when one has strong determination and perseverance.

그녀는 의지가 있으면 길이 열린다라는 말을 가슴에 새기고 매일 노력했다.

She kept the saying 'Where there's a will, there's a way' close to her heart and worked hard every day.

실패를 두려워하지 말고 의지가 있으면 길이 열린다 정신을 유지하라.

Don't fear failure; maintain the spirit that 'where there's a will, there's a way.'

Often used to encourage perseverance in challenging situations.

Collocations

의지를 가지다to have willpower길을 열다to open a way/path

Synonyms

노력하면 길이 보인다 마음만 먹으면 길이 난다

Antonyms

포기하면 길이 없다 의지가 없으면 길이 닫힌다

Related Phrases

노력이면 된다proverb

Effort is all it takes

마음먹기에 달려 있다proverb

It depends on one's mindset

Pro Tip

Cultural Context

This proverb reflects Confucian values of perseverance and self-cultivation, common in Korean society. It's often cited in educational or workplace settings to motivate perseverance.

Gold Rule

Usage Scenario

Use this proverb to encourage someone facing a difficult task or to justify your own persistence in overcoming challenges.

Word Origin

The phrase combines '의지' (will/volition) and '길' (path/way), reflecting a traditional Korean belief in the power of determination to overcome obstacles. Similar to English proverbs like 'Where there's a will, there's a way.'

Usage Notes

Commonly used in motivational contexts, speeches, or everyday encouragement. The phrase emphasizes perseverance over external circumstances.

Word Breakdown

의지

will/volition/determination

noun

가

subject marker (indicates 'will' is the subject)

particle

있으면

if (one) has

conjunction + verb

길

path/way

noun

이

subject marker (indicates 'path' is the subject)

particle

열린다

opens/is opened

verb

한영사전