Processing keyword: ~기 시작하다 [gi sijakhada] (Start to do)

Korean Grammar Point: ~기 시작하다 [gi sijakhada] (Start to do)

TOPIK Grammar Point: ~기 시작하다 [gi sijakhada] (Start to do)

1. Introduction

The grammar point ~기 시작하다 translates to "to start to [do something]" in English. It is used to indicate the beginning of an action or a process. This structure is essential for expressing when an activity commences.

2. Core Grammar Explanation

Detailed Explanation

~기 시작하다 can be broken down into two parts:

• ~기: This is the nominalization of verbs, turning them into nouns. It is formed by adding -기 to the verb stem.
• 시작하다: This means "to start." When combined, they mean "to start the action of [verb]."

Structure

The structure can be visualized as follows:

[Verb Stem] + 기 시작하다

Example Formation

• 먹다 (to eat) → 먹기 시작하다 (to start to eat)
• 공부하다 (to study) → 공부하기 시작하다 (to start to study)

Visual Aids

3. Comparative Analysis

Similar Grammar Points

• ~고 있다: This structure means "is doing" and is used to indicate ongoing actions. For example, 먹고 있다 means "is eating".
• ~기 전이다: This means "before doing". For instance, 가 기 전이다 means "before going". The key difference is that ~기 시작하다 indicates the initiation of an action, while ~고 있다 indicates the action is in progress, and ~기 전이다 indicates the temporal context before the action occurs.

4. Examples in Context

Sentence Examples

1. Formal:

   • 저희는 내일부터 여행을 시작하기로 했습니다.
   • (We decided to start the trip from tomorrow.)

2. Informal:

   • 나는 요즘 운동하기 시작했어.
   • (I’ve started exercising these days.)

3. Written:

   • 새로운 프로젝트를 진행하기 위해 회의를 시작할 것입니다.
   • (We will start a meeting in order to proceed with the new project.)

4. Spoken:

   • 걷기 시작하면 기분이 좋더라.
   • (When I start walking, I feel good.)

5. Cultural Notes

Cultural Relevance

In Korean culture, expressing the start of an action can reflect the value placed on perseverance and beginning anew. In conversations, using this grammar point often signifies a transition to a new phase or undertaking—a common theme in Korean narratives.

Idiomatic Expressions

• 시작이 반이다: The beginning is half the task. This expression emphasizes the importance of starting.

6. Common Mistakes and Tips

Error Analysis

• Forgetting Verb Stem Changes: Beginners often forget that the verb must be nominalized before using 기 시작하다.
• Confusing with Other Forms: Some students mix this with ~고 있다 since both describe actions, but they refer to different aspects (starting vs. ongoing).

Learning Strategies

• Mnemonic Device: Think of "start" > "begin" > "기 시작하다." Visualize a race starting when the whistle blows for memorization.

7. Summary and Review

Key Takeaways

• ~기 시작하다 indicates the initiation of an action.
• It can be structured as [verb stem] + 기 시작하다.
• Different from ~고 있다 and ~기 전이다, focusing specifically on the commencement of activities.

Quick Recap Quiz

1. What does ~기 시작하다 mean in English?
2. How do you form ~기 시작하다 from a verb? Provide an example.
3. Why is it important to contrast ~기 시작하다 with ~고 있다? Feel free to practice using this structure in your sentences to enhance your Korean conversational skills!