고통받다
gotongbatda
To suffer in Korean is 고통받다 (gotongbatda).
The verb 고통받다 is used to describe experiencing serious physical or mental suffering. It is not typically used for minor inconveniences.
Meaning: feel pain (verb)
What does it mean word for word?
The word is a compound of 고통, meaning pain and 받다, meaning to receive.
Which one should you use?
While 고통받다 focuses on the state of receiving pain, the phrase 고통을 겪다 is often used to describe the process of going through a difficult period or an ordeal.
How does it change in a sentence?
To express that someone is currently in a continuous state of suffering, use the progressive form 고통받고 있다.
How do you pronounce it?
gotongbatda
Did you know?
- Korean has a unique word 한 (han) that describes a deep, collective suffering and unresolved grief. It is a cultural emotion that goes beyond the individual experience of 고통받다 to describe a lifelong burden of sorrow.
- In Korean, the concept of suffering is often expressed through the phrase 고생하다, which literally means 'to undergo hardship'. Unlike 고통받다, which implies being a victim, 고생하다 can be used to praise someone for their hard work and endurance.
- When suffering from a specific illness, Koreans often use the verb 앓다 instead of 고통받다. This word describes the act of 'ailing' or 'suffering from' a disease, but it is also used metaphorically for 'suffering' from an unrequited love.
Examples in context
- 그는 가슴이 아파서 힘들게 살고 있다.He is suffering emotionally and finding it difficult to live.
- 저는 힘들어서 정말로 괴로워해요.I'm so worn out and truly tormented.
