Processing keyword: ~기로 [giro] (Decided to)

Korean Grammar Point: ~기로 [giro] (Decided to)

TOPIK Grammar Point: ~기로 [giro] (Decided to)

1. Introduction

The grammar point ~기로 is used to express a decision or intention to do something. It conveys a sense of resolution and is often used in both spoken and written Korean.

2. Core Grammar Explanation

Detailed Explanation

• Meaning: ~기로 expresses that the speaker has made a decision to perform an action.
• Structure: The structure consists of a verb stem + 기로 하다.
  • For example:
    • 가다 (gada) + 기로 하다 → 가기로 하다 (decided to go)
• Formation Diagram:

Verb Stem + 기로 하다
     ↓
Decision to perform an action

Visual Aids

3. Comparative Analysis

• ~기로 하다 vs. ~겠어요:
  • While ~기로 하다 specifies a decision that has already been made, ~겠어요 is used to express future intentions or expectations.
  • Example:
    • 가기로 하다 (decided to go) vs. 갈 거예요 (I will go).
• ~기로 하다 vs. ~기로:
  • ~기로 focuses on the decision-making aspect, while ~기로 alone can indicate a plan without emphasizing decision.
  • Example:
    • 대학교에 가기로 하다 (I decided to go to college) vs. 대학교에 가기로 (Going to college).

4. Examples in Context

Sentence Examples

1. Formal Written:

   • 저는 내일 회의에 참석하기로 했습니다.
   • (I decided to attend the meeting tomorrow.)

2. Informal Spoken:

   • 이번 주말에 친구를 만나기로 했어.
   • (I decided to meet my friend this weekend.)

3. Planned Action:

   • 우리는 여행을 가기로 했어요.
   • (We decided to go on a trip.)

4. Future Commitment:

   • 나는 운동을 매일 하기로 했어.
   • (I decided to exercise every day.)

5. Cultural Notes

Cultural Relevance

In Korean culture, making decisions can hint at respect for others' opinions. Using ~기로 하다 often implies having considered others in making that choice, particularly in communal contexts.

Levels of Politeness

The formality of ~기로 can vary based on the additional verb endings used, so it's common to find both formal and informal usages.

Idiomatic Expressions

One common phrase is "정해 주기로 하다," which means "to decide (together)." This emphasizes mutual agreement in choices.

6. Common Mistakes and Tips

Error Analysis

• Omitting the '하다': Learners sometimes forget to include 하다 after 기로, leading to incomplete phrases. Make sure to use 기로 하다 together as a set expression.

Learning Strategies

• Mnemonic Device: Associate “기 (gi)” with “Decision” to remember that it’s about deciding.
• Visualize making a decision as drawing a line towards an action can help solidify that connection.

7. Summary and Review

Key Takeaways

• ~기로 is used to express a decision or intention.
• The structure follows verb stem + 기로 하다.
• It reflects a commitment to an action and can vary based on context.

Quick Recap Quiz

1. What is the function of the grammar point ~기로?
2. Create a sentence using the structure "공부하다 + 기로 하다."
3. What is the difference between ~기로 하다 and ~겠어요? This grammar point is vital in conveying intentions and making commitments in everyday conversation. Be sure to practice using it in different contexts!