TOPIK · Level 112
15 words
Korean word
큰일
Pronunciation
Romanizationkeunil
Meaning
- nounbig trouble
Example
우리가 늦으면 큰일이야.u ri ga neu seu myeon keu ni ri ya
If we're late, we're in big trouble.
More examples
오늘 중요한 발표를 망치면 큰일이야.o neul chung yo han pal pyo reul mang chi myeon keu ni ri ya
If I ruin today's important presentation, I'm in big trouble.
Core concept
A looming crisis or serious complication that makes the current situation urgent.
Common phrases
큰일 이 벌어지다keu nil i peo reo ji da
serious trouble arising
큰일 을 겪다keu nil eul kyeok tta
go through serious trouble
큰일 날 뻔하다keu nil nal ppeon ha da
nearly get into serious trouble
Similar words
문제munje: A matter that needs an answer, discussion, or practical solution.
곤란kollan: A difficult situation that leaves a person unsure how to respond or find a solution.
위험wiheom: A state in which someone or something may be harmed or damaged.
위기wigi: A serious turning point where a person, relationship, or system may no longer remain stable.
Definition in Korean
심한 곤란이나 위험을 뜻하는 명사로, 상황의 심각성을 짧게 표현할 때 감탄형으로 자주 사용된다.sim han kol la ni na wi heo meul tteu ta neun myeong sa ro sang hwang ui sim gak sseong eul jjal kke pyo hyeon hal ttae kam tan hyeong eu ro cha ju sa yong doen da
Word origin
Its meaning developed naturally from the combination of big and matter, shifting from a large event or matter toward the everyday sense of serious trouble.
Usage tips
- In casual conversation, speakers may use it with a touch of exaggeration, so the word does not always signal an actual emergency.
Other meanings
- important matternoun
Opposites
- 하찮은 일hachaneun ila trivial matternoun
- 사소한 문제sasohan munjea minor problemnoun