The Shepherd and the Sea

마음이 조금씩 흔들리다

[To have one's heart/mind waver a little]

Real Pattern

This phrase describes the feeling of being tempted, having second thoughts, or losing your resolve. It's not a physical shaking, but an emotional or mental one. You use it when you're starting to be persuaded by something or someone, even if you know you shouldn't be.

Pattern Application

새 차를 보니까 마음이 조금씩 흔들려요. — Seeing the new car is making me start to waver.

친구가 같이 여행 가자고 해서 마음이 흔들렸어요. — My friend asked me to go on a trip together, and my resolve was shaken.

아무리 힘들어도 마음이 흔들리면 안 돼요. — No matter how hard it gets, you can't let your resolve waver.

Tip

While 흔들리다 means "to shake," in this context, it's always about feelings, decisions, or beliefs, not a physical sensation.

마음은 조금씩 흔들렸지요

큰 결심을 하다

[To make a big decision]

Real Pattern

This is a set phrase for when you make a major, life-changing, or difficult decision. It's not for choosing what to eat for lunch. Think quitting a job, moving to another country, or starting a business. It emphasizes the weight and importance of the choice.

Pattern Application

회사를 그만두기로 큰 결심을 했어요. — I made the big decision to quit my job.

유학을 가려고 큰 결심을 했어요. — I made the major decision to study abroad.

올해부터는 담배를 끊기로 큰 결심을 했습니다. — I made a firm resolution to quit smoking starting this year.

Tip

결심 (decision, resolve) is stronger than 결정 (decision, choice). 결심 implies a personal commitment or resolution.

큰 결심을 했어요

눈물을 머금고

[Holding back tears]