Processing keyword: ~게 하다 [ge hada] (Make/cause someone to do)

Korean Grammar Point: ~게 하다 [ge hada] (Make/cause someone to do)

Korean Grammar Point: ~게 하다 [ge hada] (Make/Cause Someone to Do)

1. Introduction

The grammar point ~게 하다 is commonly used to express the idea of making or causing someone to do something. This construction is essential in both spoken and written Korean and helps convey intent, command, or influence on another person's actions.

2. Core Grammar Explanation

Detailed Explanation

• Meaning: ~게 하다 translates to "to make someone do [something]" or "to cause someone to [do something]." It implies that the subject has some control or influence over another person's actions.

Structure

The construction can be broken down into two parts:

• Verb root + 게 하다
  Example:
  • 읽다 (to read) → 읽게 하다 (to make someone read)

Formation Diagram

[Subject] + [Verb Root] + 게 하다

Example:

• 그가 나를 행복하게 해요.
  (He makes me happy.)

Visual Aids

3. Comparative Analysis

Comparison with Similar Grammar Points

• ~도록 하다: Also used to imply make someone do something, however, it focuses more on ensuring a desired result.
  • Example: 그는 나를 일하게 해요. (He makes me work.)
  • Example with ~도록: 그는 나에게 일을 시키도록 해요. (He makes sure that I work.)

Differences:

• ~게 하다 focuses on the action directly, while ~도록 하다 focuses on guiding or ensuring that the action happens.

4. Examples in Context

Sentence Examples

1. Formal:
   • 선생님이 학생들을 열심히 공부하게 하셨어요.
     • (The teacher made the students study hard.)
2. Informal:
   • 엄마가 나를 도와주게 했어.
     • (My mom made me help.)
3. Written:
   • 연구는 사람들이 환경 보호에 참여하게 할 필요가 있다.
     • (The research needs to make people participate in environmental protection.)
4. Spoken:
   • 친구가 나를 웃게 만들었어.
     • (My friend made me laugh.)

5. Cultural Notes

Cultural Relevance

• The use of ~게 하다 can reflect social hierarchy and formality in relationships. People tend to be mindful of how they make requests, especially in formal situations, to maintain respect and politeness.

Idiomatic Expressions

• 시간을 잘 지키게 하다: Make someone keep their time (be punctual).
• 말을 잘 하게 하다: Make someone speak well.

6. Common Mistakes and Tips

Error Analysis

• Learners may confuse ~게 하다 with ~도록 하다. It's important to identify when to use one over the other.

Learning Strategies

• Mnemonic Device: Think of ~게 하다 as "direct influence" (making someone directly do something) and ~도록 하다 as "ensuring" (guiding them to do something).

7. Summary and Review

Key Takeaways

• ~게 하다 is used to indicate making someone do something.
• Consists of the verb root plus the suffix 게 하다.
• Important to differentiate it from similar structures like ~도록 하다.

Quick Recap Quiz

1. How do you form the construction for "make someone study"?
2. What is the difference between ~게 하다 and ~도록 하다?
3. Give an example of using ~게 하다 in a formal context. By understanding and practicing the use of ~게 하다, you can enhance your ability to express influence and command in Korean effectively!