Korean word

원한

Pronunciation

Romanizationwonhan

Meaning

  • noungrudge

Example

그는 오랜 원한을 품고 있다.keu neun o raen won ha neul pum go it tta

He has held a grudge for many years.

Illustration for 원한 (grudge)

More examples

오랜 원한도 시간이 지나면 풀릴 때가 있다.o raen won han do si ga ni chi na myeon pul lil ttae ga it tta

Even a long-held grudge can fade with time.

Core concept

A deep, lasting resentment kept alive by an old hurt or injustice and often linked to a desire for revenge.

Common phrases

  • 원한을 품다won ha neul pum tta

    harbor a grudge

  • 원한을 풀다won ha neul pul da

    let go of a grudge

  • 오랜 원한o raen won han

    long-held grudge

Similar words

원망wonmang: A resentful feeling toward someone believed to have caused harm or unfairness.
서운함seounham: A disappointed feeling that arises when expected kindness or care is missing.
미움mium: A powerful feeling of dislike that can develop into lasting hostility.

Definition in Korean

오래전의 상처나 부당한 일을 마음속에 간직하며 복수심이나 강한 원망을 품고 있는 상태나 감정을 가리키는 명사.o rae jeo nui sang cheo na pu dang han i reul ma eum so ge kan ji ka myeo pok ssu si mi na kang han won mang eul pum go in neun sang tae na kam jeong eul ka ri ki neun myeong sa

Word origin

This Sino-Korean word comes from a compound whose two parts express resentment and deep bitterness, giving it the sense of a grudge that does not fade.

Usage tips

  • Because this word sounds strong in conversation, it usually describes a long-held grudge rather than a small complaint between friends.

Opposites

Word lists with this word