Processing keyword: ~고자 하다 [goja hada] (In order to)
Korean Grammar Point: ~고자 하다 [goja hada] (In order to)
1. Introduction
The grammar point ~고자 하다 is used to express the speaker's intention or purpose to perform an action. It is commonly translated as "intend to," "plan to," or "in order to" in English. This form is primarily used in formal or written contexts.
2. Core Grammar Explanation
Meaning
- ~고자 하다 is used to indicate the speaker's intention or purpose of doing something.
- It conveys a formal tone and is often found in speeches, presentations, or official statements.
Structure
The structure combines the verb stem with ~고자 하다:
[Verb Stem] + 고자 하다
Formation Diagram
| Verb Type | Verb Stem | + 고자 하다 | Resulting Form |
|---|---|---|---|
| Action Verb | 가다 (to go) | 가 + 고자 하다 | 가고자 하다 |
| Action Verb | 공부하다 (to study) | 공부하 + 고자 하다 | 공부하고자 하다 |
| Action Verb | 만나보다 (to meet and see) | 만나보 + 고자 하다 | 만나보고자 하다 |
3. Comparative Analysis
- ~려고 하다 vs. ~고자 하다
| Grammar Point | Usage | Formality |
|---|---|---|
| ~려고 하다 | Expresses intention or plan | Informal to neutral |
| ~고자 하다 | Expresses intention or purpose | Formal and written |
- ~기 위해(서) vs. ~고자 하다
| Grammar Point | Usage | Formality |
|---|---|---|
| ~기 위해(서) | "In order to" do something | Neutral to formal |
| ~고자 하다 | "Intend to" or "in order to" | Formal and often written |
4. Examples in Context
Sentence Examples
- Formal Written Context
- 새로운 사업을 시작하고자 합니다.
- I intend to start a new business.
- 환경 문제를 연구하고자 논문을 작성했습니다.
- I wrote a thesis in order to research environmental issues.
- 새로운 사업을 시작하고자 합니다.
- Speech or Presentation
- 오늘은 저희 회사의 비전을 공유하고자 합니다.
- Today, I intend to share our company's vision.
- 이 자리를 빌려 감사의 말씀을 전하고자 합니다.
- I would like to take this opportunity to express my gratitude.
- 오늘은 저희 회사의 비전을 공유하고자 합니다.
- Formal Letters or Emails
- 귀하의 의견을 듣고자 이 이메일을 드립니다.
- I am sending this email to hear your opinion.
- 회의 일정을 확정하고자 연락드립니다.
- I am contacting you to finalize the meeting schedule.
- 귀하의 의견을 듣고자 이 이메일을 드립니다.
5. Cultural Notes
Cultural Relevance
- Formality Level: ~고자 하다 is a formal expression, suitable for official documents, formal speeches, and written communication.
- Politeness: Using this form shows respect and maintains a polite tone, which is important in Korean culture, especially in hierarchical or professional settings.
Idiomatic Expressions
- 알려 드리고자 합니다: I would like to inform you.
- Commonly used in formal announcements or notifications.
- 모시고자 합니다: We would like to invite you.
- Used when politely inviting someone to an event or meeting.
6. Common Mistakes and Tips
Error Analysis
- Using with Descriptive Verbs (Adjectives)
- Incorrect: 날씨가 춥고자 합니다.
- Correct: 날씨가 춥습니다.
- ~고자 하다 is not used with descriptive verbs.
- Mixing Formality Levels
- Incorrect: 친구를 만나고자 해요.
- Correct: 친구를 만나려고 해요.
- ~고자 하다 should be maintained in formal contexts, not mixed with informal endings like -해요.
Learning Strategies
- Mnemonic Device: Think of "고자 하다" as "고자" (goja) sounds like "goal," so it helps to remember it's about intentions or goals.
- Practice Formal Writing: Use this grammar point when composing essays or formal speeches to become comfortable with its usage.
7. Summary and Review
Key Takeaways
- ~고자 하다 is used to express intention or purpose in a formal context.
- It is attached to the verb stem of action verbs.
- Not used with descriptive verbs or in informal conversations.
- Often found in formal speeches, writings, and official communications.
Quick Recap Quiz
- How do you form ~고자 하다 with the verb 쓰다 (to write)?
- Answer: 쓰고자 하다
- Is ~고자 하다 appropriate in informal conversations?
- Answer: No, it's used in formal contexts.
- Correct the sentence if necessary: 계획을 변경하고자 해요.
- Answer: 계획을 변경하려고 해요.
By understanding and practicing ~고자 하다, you can enhance your ability to express intentions formally in Korean, which is essential for professional and academic communication.