This is the 17878th most frequent Korean word.
솜방망이
"솜방망이" refers to a "soft club" or "cotton bat," metaphorically describing something weak or lenient, often used to criticize mild punishment or ineffective measures.
The term '솜방망이' metaphorically refers to 'leniency' or ineffective retribution, as a 'cotton bat' wouldn't cause harm.
그는 솜방망이 처벌을 받았다.
He received a lenient punishment.
Here '솜방망이' literally refers to a 'cotton bat', as a soft object used in a playful context.
솜방망이로 친구를 장난스럽게 때렸다.
He playfully hit his friend with a cotton bat.
In this usage, '솜방망이' symbolizes lack of effectiveness or superficial action, resembling a 'cotton bat' that lacks impact.