Processing keyword: ~고 보면 [go bomyeon] (When you see/consider, upon closer look)

Korean Grammar Point: ~고 보면 [go bomyeon] (When you see/consider, upon closer look)

Grammar Point: ~고 보면 (go bomyeon)

Introduction

The grammar structure ~고 보면 is used to express an observation or conclusion derived after further consideration or looking at something closely. It can be translated to “when you see,” “upon closer look,” or “when you consider.”

Core Grammar Explanation

Meaning

• ~고 connects two clauses, with the first clause serving to provide a background or condition.
• 보면 is derived from the verb 보다 (to see), which implies reflection or consideration.

Structure

The basic structure of this grammar point is:

[Verb/Adjective stem] + 고 보면

Formation Diagram

[ Clause 1 (Verb/Adjective) ] + 고 + 보면

Visual Aids

Comparative Analysis

• ~고 나서 (go naseo): means “after doing” something. It emphasizes completion rather than consideration.
• ~다고 하다 (da go hada): indicates reported speech or indirect quotes. It doesn’t imply evaluation as ~고 보면 does.

Key Differences

Examples in Context

Informal

1. 너무 피곤했는데, 자고 보면 좀 나아질 것 같아.
   • (I was very tired, but when I consider resting, I think it will be better.)

Formal

2. 이 문제는 여러 번 생각해 보고 보면 해결책이 있을 것입니다.
   • (If you think about this problem multiple times, there will be solutions.)

Written

3. 지금 돌아보고 보면 그때의 선택이 올바른 선택이었던 것 같습니다.
   • (When I look back now, I think that choice we made at that time was the right one.)

Spoken

4. 고민하다 보니까, 네가 말한 대로 해야 할 것 같아.
   • (After considering it, I think I should do it like you said.)

Cultural Notes

Cultural Relevance

The use of ~고 보면 often reflects the Korean cultural value of introspection and careful consideration before making judgments or decisions. The grammar structure illustrates the importance of context and personal reflection, which are crucial in interpersonal communication.

Politeness Levels

In Korean, politeness and formality can change the use of this structure by adjusting the verb forms used prior to 고 보면. For example, you could use the honorific form to show respect when speaking to someone of higher status.

Idiomatic Expressions

• 고쳐 보니: "Upon fixing it" or "After reflection," emphasizing that after making changes, a better understanding or result is achieved.

Common Mistakes and Tips

Error Analysis

• Omitting the concluding thought or translation when using ~고 보면 can sometimes lead to incomplete sentences.
• Incorrect verb conjugation before ~고 보면 is a common mistake, especially with irregular verbs.

Learning Strategies

• Mnemonic Device: Remember 고 보면 as “go and consider” to reinforce its reflective nature.
• Practice using this structure with varied verbs and adjectives to gain confidence.

Summary and Review

Key Takeaways

• ~고 보면 is used to express reflections or observations made after further consideration.
• It connects two clauses, emphasizing the relationship between observation and conclusion.
• The structure is applicable in various contexts, showcasing flexibility in formal and informal settings.

Quick Recap Quiz

1. What does ~고 보면 mean?
2. How does ~고 나서 differ from ~고 보면?
3. Create a sentence using ~고 보면.

Feel free to reach out if you need further clarification or additional examples!