I have a question about a Korean phrase. I am wondering what 아끼면서 살자 means? I have been getting conflicting results. I have heard that it can possibly mean, "Let's be frugal", or, "Let's live loving each other", or other definitions. Is this a common phrase? Can it have multiple definitions? Thank you very much for your help! I really appreciate it!!
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2With little context, it usually means "Let's live without waste"; however, 아끼다 has two or more meanings, so those definitions are all correct.– KlmoJan 31, 2021 at 5:02
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1It almost always means frugal, but it can mean the latter given context. It is not a common phrase, but being frugal have been quite a virtue during post-Korean War era.– Hojin ChoFeb 1, 2021 at 2:10
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2 Answers
Klmo and Hojin Cho left a good answer in the comments. It depends on the context - the meaning can vary depending on what object 아끼다 takes. And yes, such expression is common in casual conversations
Below are examples:
- 아끼면서 살자 = 1. Let’s be frugal / 2. Let’s live loving each other (with enough context)
- 돈을 아끼면서 살자 = Let’s live saving money
- 서로 아끼면서 살자 = Let’s live loving each other
- 사랑하는 사람을 아끼면서 살자 = Let’s live loving the beloved
- 목소리를 아끼다 = To save up ones voice
If you thought '아끼다' is used in two conflicting contexts, then think about this.
- "Let's be frugal"
- "Let's live loving each other"
In both contexts, one considers something very precious to oneself. In the first example, it is money. In the second, it is a loved one.
