This is the 14180th most frequent Korean word.
명맥을
"명맥을" refers to "the lifeline" or "vital thread" in English.
In this sentence, '명맥을 유지하다' (maintain the lifeline) refers to keeping the essential existence or continuation of the family business.
그는 어려운 상황에서도 가족 사업의 명맥을 유지하기 위해 노력했다.
He worked hard to maintain the lifeline of the family business despite difficult circumstances.
Here, '명맥을 잃지 않다' (not lose the lifeline) indicates the preservation of the core existence of ancient civilizations.
고대 문명의 명맥을 잃지 않도록 기록을 남기는 것이 중요하다.
It is important to leave records to ensure the lifeline of ancient civilizations is not lost.
In this case, '명맥을 이어오다' (sustain the lifeline) describes the continuation and support of the local economy via agriculture.