행운을 빌어
haeng-un-eul bireo
The English phrase "break a leg" can be translated into Korean as 행운을 빌어 (haeng-un-eul bireo).
Unlike the English idiom "break a leg" which uses a negative image to wish luck, the Korean equivalent uses the direct concept of 'luck' to express best wishes to a performer.
Meaning: expression of best wishes to a performer (intj)
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase 행운을 빌어 literally means "wish luck".
How does it change in a sentence?
Adding the suffix -요 to the end makes the phrase polite and suitable for someone older or in a higher position, resulting in 행운을 빌어요.
How do you pronounce it?
haeng-un-eul bireo
Did you know?
- If you want to sound more dramatic, like a theater professional, you might use the phrase 대박 나길! which literally means 'hope you hit the jackpot'.
- In high-pressure situations, such as an audition, Koreans might use the word 파이팅 (fighting) to provide encouragement.
- The verb 빌다 used in 행운을 빌어 can also mean 'to beg' or 'to plead' depending on the context of the sentence.
Examples in context
- 공연 잘해, 행운을 빌어.gongyeon jalhae, haenguneul bireo.Perform well, break a leg.
- 연주 잘하라고 행운을 빌어줄게.yeonju jalharago haenguneul bireojulge.I will wish you luck for your performance.
Example conversation
Subin is wishing Minjun luck before his piano recital.
- 수빈 Su-bin민준, 이제 곧 시작이야.Minjun, ije got sijagiya.Minjun, it's starting soon.
- 민준 Min-jun너무 긴장돼서 걱정이야.neomu ginjangdwaeseo geokjeong-iya.I'm so nervous, I'm worried.
- 수빈 Su-bin잘할 수 있어, 행운을 빌어!jalhal su isseo, haenguneul bireo!You can do it, break a leg!
- 민준 Min-jun고마워, 수빈아. 다녀올게.gomawo, Subina. danyeoolge.Thanks, Subin. I'm heading out.
