Holding your breath
숨을 죽이고
[Holding one's breath]
Real Pattern
This phrase literally means "killing your breath." It's used to describe a state of intense focus, anticipation, or silence, where you're so captivated by something that you barely breathe. It's often used for watching a tense movie, a sports match, or listening to a captivating story.
Pattern Application
모두 숨을 죽이고 다음 장면을 기다렸어요. — Everyone held their breath and waited for the next scene.
아이들은 숨을 죽이고 할머니의 옛날이야기를 들었다. — The children listened to grandma's old story with bated breath.
Tip
This is a very common and slightly dramatic expression. You can use it to emphasize how engrossing or tense a situation was.
숨을 죽이고
Without a moment's hesitation
한순간도 망설이지 않았어요
[Didn't hesitate for even a moment]
Real Pattern
This expresses decisive, immediate action. When someone sees an opportunity or a problem, they act instantly without any doubt or second-guessing. It conveys a sense of confidence, urgency, or even ruthlessness, depending on the context.
Pattern Application
도움이 필요한 사람을 보자 한순간도 망설이지 않고 달려갔어요. — Seeing someone in need, I ran to help without a moment's hesitation.
세일 마지막 날이라서 한순간도 망설이지 않고 결제했어요. — It was the last day of the sale, so I paid for it without hesitating for a second.
Tip
This phrase emphasizes the speed and certainty of a decision. The opposite feeling could be expressed with 한참 망설였어요 (I hesitated for a long time).
한순간도 망설이지 않았어요
That's just foolish talk
어리석은 소리
[Foolish talk / Nonsense]
Real Pattern
This is a blunt and dismissive way to reject an idea or suggestion. It labels the other person's words as naive, illogical, or simply stupid. It's a very direct and strong statement, often used when someone is frustrated or feels the other person is completely out of touch with reality.