Korean Idiom : 티끌 모아 태산

 

 

The Korean idiom “티끌 모아 태산” (tikkeul moa taesan) literally translates to “Gather dust to make a mountain.” This phrase emphasizes the power of small, consistent efforts leading to significant results over time. It’s similar to the English expressions “Every little bit helps” or “Many drops make a river.” It’s often used to encourage patience, persistence, and belief in incremental progress.

 

Detailed Meaning

• Cultural Insight: In Korean culture, this proverb is commonly used in contexts like saving money, developing skills, or achieving a long-term goal. It reflects the value placed on steady, diligent efforts and the idea that even the smallest contributions matter when accumulated.
• Key Message: Small actions or savings, which may seem trivial individually, can eventually add up to something substantial and meaningful. It encourages people to keep at it, even if their contributions seem tiny or insignificant at the moment.

 

Example Sentences

1. 월급의 일부를 매달 저축하면 큰돈을 모을 수 있어. 티끌 모아 태산이잖아.
   "If you save part of your salary every month, you can build up a large amount. After all, dust gathered becomes a mountain."
2. 한 페이지씩 책을 읽다 보면 결국 다 읽게 돼. 티끌 모아 태산이니까.
   "If you read just one page at a time, you’ll eventually finish the whole book. Because gathering dust makes a mountain."
3. 작은 노력을 매일 쌓으면 큰 성과를 얻을 수 있어. 티끌 모아 태산이야.
   "By putting in small efforts each day, you can achieve big results. Dust gathered becomes a mountain."