Processing keyword: ~고 보니 [go boni] (After doing, I noticed)

Korean Grammar Point: ~고 보니 [go boni] (After doing, I noticed)

Grammar Point: ~고 보니 [go boni]

1. Introduction

The expression ~고 보니 is used to convey that after completing an action or task, the speaker has realized or noticed something related to that action. It reflects a sort of realization following the execution of an action.

2. Core Grammar Explanation

Detailed Explanation

• Meaning: The structure ~고 보니 translates to "After doing [something], I noticed" or "Having done [something], I realized." It implies that the speaker gained new insight after performing an action.

• Structure:

  • Verb stem + 고 보니

• Formation Diagram:

  [Verb Stem] + 고 보니 → [Realization or Insight]
  

Visual Aid

3. Comparative Analysis

~고 보니 vs. ~니까:

• ~고 보니 indicates realization after completion of an action, whereas ~니까 is a causal form meaning "because" or "since."
• Example:
  • 고 보니: 가고 보니 길이 멀다. (After going, I realized the road is long.)
  • 니까: 길이 멀니까 일찍 출발하자. (Since the road is long, let’s leave early.)

4. Examples in Context

Sentence Examples

1. Informal:
   • 영화 보고 보니 생각보다 재미있었어.
   • (I realized that the movie was more fun than I thought after watching it.)
2. Formal:
   • 수업을 듣고 보니 많은 도움이 되었습니다.
   • (After attending the class, I realized it was a great help.)
3. Spoken:
   • 이걸 하고 보니 진짜 별로네.
   • (After doing this, I really realized it's not that great.)
4. Written:
   • 요리를 해보고 보니 요리의 어려움을 알게 되었습니다.
   • (After trying to cook, I learned about the difficulties of cooking.)

5. Cultural Notes

Cultural Relevance

Levels of Politeness: Korean language has varying levels of politeness. Using ~고 보니 in formal settings shows respect and acknowledges the realization process. Conversely, in informal contexts, the same grammar can denote a casual tone.

Idiomatic Expressions

• 보니 can also be seen in idiomatic expressions, indicating reflection or internalization:
  • 이것을 해보니 매우 흥미로워요. (Having tried this, I find it very interesting.)

6. Common Mistakes and Tips

Error Analysis

• Common Mistake: Confusing ~고 보니 with ~서 (because), leading to errant usage.

• Tip: Remember that ~고 보니 implies an after effect of realization closely tied to an action completed.

Learning Strategies

• Mnemonic Device: Think of “go” as “after going” and “boni” as “I notice.” Visualize a journey leading to a new discovery.

7. Summary and Review

Key Takeaways

• ~고 보니 expresses realization after completing an action.
• It's constructed using the verb stem + 고 보니.

Quick Recap Quiz

1. What does ~고 보니 indicate?
2. How would you say "After trying" using this grammar point?
3. Can you give an example sentence using ~고 보니 in a formal context? Answers:
4. Realization after completing an action.
5. [Verb Stem] + 고 보니 (e.g., 해보고 보니)
6. (Example provided above).