neutral
common
Usage
Native speakers often use the word '노력' in academic or professional settings to emphasize the importance of hard work and dedication. For instance, a teacher might encourage students to put in '노력' when preparing for exams, or a manager might highlight team '노력' during a project presentation.
Synonyms & nuances
While '노력' generally refers to effort, another word like '힘' (him), meaning strength or power, can imply physical exertion rather than mental or emotional effort. You would choose '노력' when discussing diligence and perseverance in achieving goals, whereas '힘' might be used in contexts involving physical strength.
Culture
'노력' is derived from the Sino-Korean characters '努' (to exert) and '力' (power), reflecting a deep-seated cultural belief in the value of perseverance. In South Korea, where academic and professional achievements are highly emphasized, the concept of '노력' is often linked to success, making it a significant part of motivational speeches and advice.
FAQ
Q.What does '노력' mean in English?
'노력' translates to 'effort' in English, signifying the exertion of energy towards achieving something. It embodies the idea that success often requires hard work and dedication.
Q.How do you use '노력' in a sentence?
You can use '노력' in a sentence like, '나는 시험을 잘 보려고 많은 노력을 했다', which means 'I put in a lot of effort to do well on the exam.'
Q.Are there any common mistakes with '노력'?
A common mistake is confusing '노력' with '시도' (sido), which means 'attempt.' While both imply trying, '노력' emphasizes sustained effort, while '시도' can refer to a single attempt.