Processing keyword: 계속 [gyesok] (Continue to)

Korean Grammar Point: 계속 [gyesok] (Continue to)

1. Introduction

In this lesson, we'll explore the Korean adverb 계속 (gyesok), which means "continuously" or "keep doing". Understanding how to use 계속 will help you express ongoing actions or states in Korean, adding depth and fluency to your language skills.

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2. Core Grammar Explanation

Meaning and Usage

계속 is used to indicate that an action or state continues without interruption. It can modify verbs to express that something is happening continuously or repeatedly over a period of time.

Structure

The basic structure is:

[Subject] + 계속 + [Verb]

• 계속 is placed before the verb it modifies.
• It functions as an adverb, describing the manner of the action.

Formation Diagram

Subject   계속   Verb
   ↓        ↓      ↓
 주어    계속하다   동사

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3. Comparative Analysis

While 계속 means "to continue," it's useful to compare it with other expressions of continuation in Korean:

Grammar Point	Meaning	Usage Example
계속	Continuously, keep doing	계속 먹다 (to keep eating)
-아/어 있다	To be in a state of	앉아 있다 (to be sitting)
-고 있다	Currently doing (progressive)	먹고 있다 (am eating)
-아/어 가다	Continue doing into the future	늘어 가다 (to keep increasing)

• -고 있다 expresses a current, ongoing action.
• 계속 adds the nuance of continuity without interruption.

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4. Examples in Context

Formal Speech

1. 회의가 계속 진행되고 있습니다.
   • Hoeuiga gyesok jinhaengdoego issseumnida.
   • The meeting is continuing.
2. 그는 계속 노력할 것입니다.
   • Geuneun gyesok noryeokhal geosimnida.
   • He will continue to make efforts.

Informal Speech

1. 나는 계속 공부하고 있어.
   • Naneun gyesok gongbuhago isseo.
   • I am continuing to study.
2. 비가 계속 와.
   • Biga gyesok wa.
   • It keeps raining.

Written Context

1. 경제가 계속 성장하고 있다.
   • Gyeongjega gyesok seongjanghago itda.
   • The economy is continuously growing.

Spoken Context

1. 왜 계속 날 따라와?
   • Wae gyesok nal ttarawa?
   • Why do you keep following me?
2. 음악이 계속 반복돼.
   • Eumagi gyesok banbokdwae.
   • The music keeps repeating.

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5. Cultural Notes

Levels of Politeness and Formality

• 계속 is neutral and can be used in both formal and informal settings.
• Adjust the verb endings to match the appropriate level of politeness.

Idiomatic Expressions

• 계속해서 (gyesokhaeseo): An emphatic form meaning "continuously" or "without stopping."
  • 예: 그는 계속해서 질문했다.
    • Geuneun gyesokhaeseo jilmunhaetda.
    • He kept asking questions.

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6. Common Mistakes and Tips

Error Analysis

Common Mistake: Placing 계속 after the verb.

• Incorrect: 나는 공부하고 계속 있어.
• Correct: 나는 계속 공부하고 있어. Explanation: 계속 should come before the verb it modifies.

Learning Strategies

• Mnemonic Device: Think of 계속 as a "continuation signal" that needs to be placed right before the action it affects.
• Tip: When you want to express "keep doing something," remember the pattern 계속 + Verb.

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7. Summary and Review

Key Takeaways

• 계속 means "continuously" or "keep doing".
• It is placed before the verb to indicate an ongoing action.
• Adjust verb endings for appropriate politeness levels.

Quick Recap Quiz

1. Fill in the blank: 비가 ___ 내리고 있어요. (The rain is continuing to fall.)
   • Answer: 계속
2. True or False: 계속 should be placed after the verb.
   • Answer: False
3. Translate to Korean: "She keeps talking."
   • Answer: 그녀는 계속 말하고 있어요.

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Feel free to revisit this lesson to reinforce your understanding of 계속. Practice by making your own sentences to describe actions that continue over time!

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