Korean Proverb : A Chicken Instead of a Pheasant

Korean Proverb Series 44

A Chicken Instead of a Pheasant
“꿩 대신 닭”
(Kkwong daesin dak)

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🕰️ 1. The Proverb’s Core Meaning

The Korean proverb “꿩 대신 닭” literally means
“A chicken instead of a pheasant.”

It teaches the wisdom of accepting alternatives when the ideal is out of reach.
Rather than clinging to what’s lost, it’s better to make the best of what’s available.
The proverb reflects Korean practicality and adaptability —
finding satisfaction not in perfection, but in flexibility.

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🪄 2. Meaning & Key Lesson

▪️ When you can’t have what you want, make do with what you have.
▪️ Compromise can be a form of wisdom, not defeat.
▪️ Life rarely goes perfectly — those who adapt thrive.

This proverb reminds us that happiness often comes
not from having everything, but from appreciating enough.

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👀 3. Real-Life Applications

▪️ When your favorite restaurant is closed, enjoy a nearby one instead.
▪️ When a plan fails, adjust and move forward rather than giving up.
▪️ In relationships or work, accepting “good enough” often brings peace faster than chasing perfection.

Flexibility is not weakness — it’s quiet strength.

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🌏 4. Similar Proverbs Around the World

▪️ United States / United Kingdom — “Half a loaf is better than none.”
　→ Something is better than nothing.

▪️ China — “退而求其次 (Tuì ér qiú qícì).”
　→ “When retreating, seek the next best option.”

▪️ Japan — “無い袖は振れぬ (Nai sode wa furenu).”
　→ “You can’t wave a sleeve you don’t have.” (Do what’s possible with what you have.)

▪️ France — “Faute de grives, on mange des merles.”
　→ “When there are no thrushes, eat blackbirds.”

 

Every culture values this same wisdom:life’s satisfaction often begins with acceptance.

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💬 A Warm Saying

“When you can’t have the best,
find joy in what’s within reach.”

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📌 Note
This is a creative cultural content from the Misojieum Story Blog (kor-telling.com).

Please do not copy without permission.
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