Processing keyword: ~게 해서는 안 되다 [ge haeseoneun an dweda] (Shouldn't make/let someone do)

Korean Grammar Point: ~게 해서는 안 되다 [ge haeseoneun an dweda] (Shouldn't make/let someone do)

Grammar Point: ~게 해서는 안 되다 [ge haeseoneun an dweda]

1. Introduction

The expression ~게 해서는 안 되다 is used to indicate that someone should not allow or make someone else do something. It conveys a sense of prohibition and is often used to express negative advice or warnings.

2. Core Grammar Explanation

Detailed Explanation

• Structure: [Verb stem] + 게 + 해서는 안 되다
• Meaning: "Shouldn't make/let someone do [verb]."

Breakdown:

1. Verb Stem: The main verb that describes the action.
2. 게 (ge): This construction changes the verb to mean "to cause someone to do" that action.
3. 해서는 안 되다: This phrase means "should not do" or "it is not permissible".

Formation Diagram:

[Verb Stem] + 게 → [cause to do] + 해서는 안 되다 → [should not make/let do]

3. Comparative Analysis

• ~지 말다: This structure expresses direct prohibition, telling someone not to do something themselves (e.g., "Don't eat.").
• ~게 해서는 안 되다: This is about prohibiting someone from allowing another party to do an action (e.g., "You shouldn't let them eat.").

Example Comparison:

• Don't eat:
  • 밥을 먹지 마세요 (Bap-eul meokji maseyo).
• You shouldn't let them eat:
  • 그들이 밥을 먹게 해서는 안 돼요 (Geudeuri bap-eul meoge haeseoneun an dwaeyo).

4. Examples in Context

Sentence Examples:

1. Formal Written:
   • 학생들에게 늦게까지 놀게 해서는 안 됩니다.
     (You shouldn't let the students play until late.)
2. Informal Spoken:
   • 친구한테 그렇게 하게 해서는 안 돼!
     (You shouldn't let your friend do that!)
3. Advice Context:
   • 애에게 너무 많이 TV 보게 해서는 안 돼.
     (You shouldn't let the child watch too much TV.)
4. Workplace:
   • 직원들이 이렇게 일하게 해서는 안 됩니다.
     (You shouldn't let the employees work like this.)

5. Cultural Notes

Cultural Relevance

In Korean culture, there's a strong emphasis on responsibility, especially towards younger generations or subordinates. Using this grammar point reflects an attitude of care and consideration, often associated with parental or managerial roles.

Levels of Politeness

The use of ~게 해서는 안 되다 can vary in politeness depending on the verb conjugation. Formal speech is expected in professional settings, while informal speech is more common in casual conversations.

Idiomatic Expressions

• 절제를 강조하는 표현: Many expressions in Korean emphasize self-control and responsibility. For instance, “허용해선 안 된다” (Shouldn't allow) carries a similar meaning and can be used interchangeably.

6. Common Mistakes and Tips

Error Analysis

1. Mistake: Using the wrong verb form.

   • Correction: Make sure the base verb is conjugated properly before adding 게.

2. Mistake: Confusing with ~지 말다.

   • Tip: Remember that ~게 해서는 안 되다 is about not allowing others to do something, while ~지 말다 is about advising someone directly.

Learning Strategies

• Mnemonic Device: Think of “No letting them do” to help remember that it involves preventing others from performing an action.

7. Summary and Review

Key Takeaways

• ~게 해서는 안 되다 is used to express prohibition regarding allowing someone else to do something.
• It illustrates a sense of responsibility towards others, particularly in a cultural context.
• Compare it with other forms of prohibition like ~지 말다 for better understanding.

Quick Recap Quiz

1. What does ~게 해서는 안 되다 express?
2. Provide an example sentence using this grammar point.
3. How does this grammar point differ from ~지 말다? Feel free to review and practice using these insights and examples to master the usage of ~게 해서는 안 되다 in Korean!