Processing keyword: ~고자 하다 [goja hada] (In order to)

Korean Grammar Point: ~고자 하다 [goja hada] (In order to)

Grammar Point: ~고자 하다 [goja hada] (In order to)

1. Introduction

The grammar point ~고자 하다 is used to express the intention of doing something in order to achieve a particular goal or purpose. It can be translated as "to intend to" or "in order to" in English.

2. Core Grammar Explanation

Meaning

The structure implies a purpose for an action. It shows that the speaker has a specific aim in mind when intending to perform an action.

Structure

The construction generally follows these steps:

1. Take the verb stem (dictionary form minus "다").
2. Add 고자.
3. Follow with 하다 to indicate the intention.

Formation Diagram

[Verb Stem] + 고자 + 하다

Example Breakdown

• 가다 (gada - to go) → 가고자 하다 (gagoja hada - to intend to go)
• 먹다 (meokda - to eat) → 먹고자 하다 (meokgoja hada - to intend to eat)

3. Comparative Analysis

Similar Grammar Points

• 위해서 (wihaeseo): This means "for the sake of" and can also express purpose. However, it does not indicate intention like ~고자 하다 does. For example:

  • 밥을 먹기 위해서 가다. (I go in order to eat rice.)

• 하려고 하다 (haryeogo hada): This literally translates to "to try to do" and denotes intention but can imply a more casual or immediate intent compared to ~고자 하다.

Key Differences

4. Examples in Context

Sentence Examples

1. 나는 한국어를 배우고자 합니다.
   I intend to learn Korean. (Formal)
2. 그는 서울에 가고자 해요.
   He intends to go to Seoul. (Informal)
3. 항상 건강을 유지하고자 노력합니다.
   I always try to maintain my health. (Formal)
4. 새로운 기술을 익히고자 합니다.
   I intend to learn new skills. (Formal)
5. 이 문제를 해결하고자 했지만, 너무 어려워요.
   I tried to solve this problem, but it was too difficult. (Informal)

5. Cultural Notes

In Korean culture, the expression of intention often carries weight on the level of formality. Using ~고자 하다 is seen as polite and respectful, making it suitable for formal settings such as presentations, reports, or persisting intentions in professional contexts.

Idiomatic Expressions

While ~고자 하다 itself may not appear frequently in idiomatic expressions, it does emphasize respect and purpose, which are significant in Korean interactions.

6. Common Mistakes and Tips

Error Analysis

• Mistake: Misusing with casual verbs or contexts.
  • Example error: "나는 한국어 배우고자 해." should be "나는 한국어를 배우고자 해요."

Learning Strategies

• Mnemonic Device: Remember the phrase “I intend (하고자)” to connect it directly to future intentions. Always link your verbs to intentions rather than casual actions.

7. Summary and Review

Key Takeaways

• ~고자 하다 expresses intention with purpose.
• Suitable for formal contexts and carries a level of respect.
• Distinguished from similar structures such as ~위해서 and ~하려고 하다.

Quick Recap Quiz

1. What does ~고자 하다 mean?
2. How do you form the structure?
3. What are two similar grammar points and their differences?