Let's join forces
힘을 합쳤어요
They combined their strength.
Real Pattern
This phrase literally means "to combine strength." It's used when people or groups decide to work together towards a common goal, pooling their skills and efforts. It has a positive, collaborative feeling.
Pattern Application
우리 팀, 이번 프로젝트에서 힘을 합쳐서 꼭 성공시켜요. — Our team, let's join forces on this project and make sure it succeeds.
혼자서는 힘들지만, 우리가 힘을 합치면 할 수 있을 거예요. — It's tough alone, but if we combine our strength, we can do it.
Tip
You can use 힘을 합치다 in the present tense (힘을 합쳐요) or as a suggestion (힘을 합칩시다).
힘을 합쳤어요
Waiting with bated breath
침을 삼키며 기다렸어요
They waited, swallowing nervously.
Real Pattern
Literally "swallowing saliva while waiting," this paints a vivid picture of someone waiting anxiously or with great anticipation. It's used for moments of high tension, like waiting for an announcement, a result, or something delicious to eat.
Pattern Application
합격자 발표를 침을 삼키며 기다렸어요. — I waited for the acceptance announcement with bated breath.
아이들은 케이크가 나오기를 침을 삼키며 기다렸다. — The children waited for the cake to come out, their mouths watering.
Tip
This expression is more descriptive and literary than just saying 기다렸어요 (waited). It adds a layer of emotion.
침을 삼키며 기다렸어요
Couldn't say a single word
아무 말도 하지 못했어요
I couldn't say anything at all.
Real Pattern
This expresses being completely speechless. It's used when you're so surprised, scared, or overwhelmed by a situation that you can't find the words to respond.
Pattern Application
너무 놀라서 아무 말도 하지 못했어요. — I was so surprised I couldn't say a word.