Meaning
Small bad habits can lead to larger crimes or misdeeds over time.
Cultural Background
Reflects the importance of the cow in traditional agrarian life. Emphasizes self-cultivation and moral integrity from a young age. Shared values regarding the slippery slope of moral decay. Used in corporate ethics to prevent small-scale corruption.
Use it as a warning
This is best used when you want to warn someone about their behavior.
Cultural nuance
It shows you understand traditional Korean values.
Meaning
Small bad habits can lead to larger crimes or misdeeds over time.
Use it as a warning
This is best used when you want to warn someone about their behavior.
Cultural nuance
It shows you understand traditional Korean values.
Test Yourself
Fill in the missing word.
바늘 도둑이 ____ 도둑 된다.
The proverb uses 'cow' (소) as the large item.
What does this proverb mean?
Which situation is this proverb best for?
It is a warning about the escalation of bad behavior.
Complete the dialogue.
A: 'I just took a small snack from the office without paying.' B: 'Don't do that! ________.'
This is the appropriate warning for theft.
Match the situation to the proverb.
Situation: A child starts lying about small things.
The proverb addresses the progression of dishonesty.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
4 exercises바늘 도둑이 ____ 도둑 된다.
The proverb uses 'cow' (소) as the large item.
Which situation is this proverb best for?
It is a warning about the escalation of bad behavior.
A: 'I just took a small snack from the office without paying.' B: 'Don't do that! ________.'
This is the appropriate warning for theft.
Situation: A child starts lying about small things.
The proverb addresses the progression of dishonesty.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
3 questionsNo, it is meant to warn against the *start* of bad habits.
It is neutral and can be used in most situations.
Because it was the most valuable thing in old Korea.
Related Phrases
세 살 버릇 여든까지 간다
similarHabits formed early last a lifetime.
소 잃고 외양간 고친다
contrastFixing the barn after losing the cow.
티끌 모아 태산
builds onSmall things gather to make a mountain.
시작이 반이다
similarStarting is half the battle.
