Processing keyword: ~기에는 [gieneun] (For, in order to)

Korean Grammar Point: ~기에는 [gieneun] (For, in order to)

1. Introduction

In Korean, expressing purposes or evaluating situations often requires specific grammatical constructions. One such construction is ~기에는 (gi-eneun), which is used to assess or comment on the suitability or sufficiency of something for a particular action or situation. This lesson will delve into the usage of ~기에는, providing clear explanations, examples, and comparisons to help you grasp this grammar point effectively.

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2. Core Grammar Explanation

Detailed Explanation

Meaning: The grammar point ~기에는 is used to express that something is (too... / not enough... / sufficient...) for doing a particular action. It often conveys evaluation or judgment about a situation in the context of an intended action.

• Translation Equivalents: "for (doing something)", "to (do something)", "in order to"

Structure

To construct sentences using ~기에는, follow these steps:

1. Verb Stem: Take the stem of the action verb.
2. Attach ~기에는: Add ~기에는 to the verb stem.

[Verb Stem] + 기에는

Formation Diagram

Component	Explanation	Example
Verb Stem	Remove -다 from the base form	먹다 → 먹
+ 기에는	Attach 기에는	먹 + 기에는 → 먹기에는

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3. Comparative Analysis

~기에는 vs. ~기에

• ~기에는: Emphasizes evaluation or judgment about the suitability of something for an action, often with a comparative nuance.
  • 이 음식은 아이들이 먹기에는 매워요.
    (This food is spicy for children to eat.)
• ~기에: Indicates the reason or basis for an action, often translated as "because" or "since."
  • 날씨가 좋기에 산책을 했어요.
    (Because the weather was good, I took a walk.) Difference: ~기에 is used for reasons, while ~기에는 is used for assessing suitability.

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4. Examples in Context

Example Sentences

1. Informal Spoken
   • 이 방은 두 사람이 살기에는 좁아.
     This room is small for two people to live in.
2. Formal Spoken
   • 이 옷은 겨울에 입기에는 너무 얇습니다.
     This clothing is too thin to wear in winter.
3. Written Context
   • 그 책은 초보자가 읽기에는 내용이 어렵다.
     The book's content is difficult for a beginner to read.
4. Polite Formal
   • 여기에 앉기에는 불편하지 않으세요?
     Isn't it uncomfortable for you to sit here?
5. Suggestion
   • 이 정도 돈으로 여행을 가기에는 부족해요.
     This amount of money is insufficient to go on a trip.

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5. Cultural Notes

Cultural Relevance

In Korean culture, expressing appropriate levels of politeness and making considerate judgments are important. Using ~기에는 allows the speaker to make evaluations or suggestions without being too direct, which aligns with the indirect communication style often preferred in Korean society.

Idiomatic Expressions

• 눈으로만 보기에는 아까운 작품이다.
  It's a masterpiece that's too precious just to look at with eyes (implying it should be experienced more deeply).

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6. Common Mistakes and Tips

Error Analysis

• Mistake: Confusing ~기에는 with ~기에 and misusing them interchangeably.
  • Incorrect: 시간이 없기에는 못 갔어요.
  • Correct: 시간이 없기에 못 갔어요.
    (I couldn't go because I didn't have time.)

Learning Strategies

• Mnemonic Device: Remember that 에는 often relates to "for" or "in terms of," helping you recall that ~기에는 is about evaluating suitability "for doing" something.
• Tip: Pay attention to the context of the sentence to determine whether you should use ~기에는 (evaluation) or ~기에 (reason).

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7. Summary and Review

Key Takeaways

• ~기에는 is used to express an evaluation of suitability or sufficiency for performing an action.
• Constructed by attaching ~기에는 to the verb stem.
• It differs from ~기에, which indicates reason or basis for an action.

Quick Recap Quiz

1. How do you attach ~기에는 to a verb?
   • Answer: Attach ~기에는 directly to the verb stem.
2. Choose the correct grammar point for the sentence: This tea is too hot ___ drink quickly. a) 마시기에는
   b) 마시기에
   • Answer: a) 마시기에는
3. True or False: ~기에는 is used to indicate the reason for an action.
   • Answer: False

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By understanding and practicing ~기에는, you'll enhance your ability to express nuanced evaluations in Korean, making your speech more natural and context-appropriate.

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