Processing keyword: ~다가는 [daganeun] (If continue doing)

Korean Grammar Point: ~다가는 [daganeun] (If continue doing)

1. Introduction

In Korean, the expression ~다가는 is used to warn that if a certain action continues, a negative outcome will occur. It conveys a sense of caution about the potential consequences of ongoing behavior.

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2. Core Grammar Explanation

Meaning

• ~다가는 translates to "If (you) keep doing...", implying that if the current action continues, it will lead to an undesirable result.

Structure

The grammar point ~다가는 is attached to the verb stem of an action verb.

Formation Diagram

[Verb Stem] + 다가는

Detailed Explanation

1. Verb Stem: Remove the 다 ending from the dictionary form of the verb.
2. Attach 다가는: Add 다가는 directly to the verb stem.

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Visual Aid: Formation Table

Verb (Dictionary Form)	Verb Stem	+ 다가는	Result
먹다 (to eat)	먹	먹다가는	먹다가는
하다 (to do)	하	하다가는	하다가는
자다 (to sleep)	자	자다가는	자다가는
마시다 (to drink)	마시	마시다가는	마시다가는

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3. Comparative Analysis

Comparison with ~다가

• ~다가: Indicates an interruption, meaning "while doing... (something else happened)."
• ~다가는: Implies a warning about the continuation of an action leading to a negative result. Example:
• 공부하다가 친구를 만났어요.
  • While studying, I met a friend.
• 공부하다가는 시험에 떨어질 거예요.
  • If you keep studying (like this), you'll fail the exam.

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4. Examples in Context

Example Sentences

1. Formal Written
   • 이렇게 늦게까지 일을 하다가는 건강을 해칠 수 있습니다.
     • If you continue working late like this, you may harm your health.
2. Informal Spoken
   • 너 그렇게 먹다가는 배탈 날 것 같아.
     • If you keep eating like that, you'll get a stomachache.
3. Casual Conversation
   • 매일 늦게 자다가는 아침에 못 일어나.
     • If you keep sleeping late every day, you won't be able to wake up in the morning.
4. Polite Spoken
   • 계속 담배를 피우시다가는 병이 날 수도 있어요.
     • If you continue smoking, you might get sick.

Contextual Usage

• Used to advise or warn someone gently about potential negative consequences.
• Often found in both spoken and written forms.

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5. Cultural Notes

Cultural Relevance

• In Korean society, there is a strong emphasis on harmony and advising others subtly.
• Using ~다가는 is a way to caution someone without being too direct or forceful.

Levels of Politeness

• The form ~다가는 itself is neutral.
• Politeness is conveyed through the overall sentence ending and context.

Idiomatic Expressions

• 계속 놀기만 하다가는 큰일 나요.
  • If you keep only playing around, you'll be in big trouble.

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6. Common Mistakes and Tips

Common Mistakes

1. Confusing ~다가 with ~다가는
   • Incorrect: 집에 가다가 숙제를 해야 해요.
     • Misused ~다가 instead of the correct grammar.
2. Using with Stative Verbs
   • Incorrect: 예쁘다가는 사람들이 좋아해요.
     • ~다가는 is generally used with action verbs, not adjectives/stative verbs.

Tips

• Remember that ~다가는 is for warning about ongoing actions.
• Ensure you attach it to the verb stem of action verbs.
• Think of the structure as setting up a cause (continuing action) leading to an effect (negative result).

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7. Summary and Review

Key Takeaways

• ~다가는 is used to warn about negative consequences if an action continues.
• Attach ~다가는 to the verb stem of action verbs.
• It emphasizes caution and is often used in both casual and formal contexts.

Quick Recap Quiz

1. Fill in the blank:
   • 늦게까지 TV를 보________ 잠을 못 잘 거예요.
     • Answer: 보다가는
2. True or False:
   • ~다가는 can be used with adjectives.
     • Answer: False
3. Choose the correct usage:
   • (a) 공부하다가 좋은 성적을 받았어요.
   • (b) 공부하다가는 좋은 성적을 받았어요.
     • Answer: (a) is correct for the given meaning.

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By understanding and practicing ~다가는, you can effectively warn others or express caution about ongoing actions and their potential negative outcomes in Korean.

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