Processing keyword: ~다며 [damyeo] (Saying that)

Korean Grammar Point: ~다며 [damyeo] (Saying that)

TOPIK Grammar Point: ~다며 [damyeo] (Saying that)

1. Introduction

The grammar point ~다며 is used to express reported speech, specifically when someone says or claims something about another subject. It typically conveys the idea of quoting someone else's statement or expressing their thoughts indirectly. This point is often encountered in both spoken and written Korean.

2. Core Grammar Explanation

Detailed Explanation

• Meaning: The suffix ~다며 is derived from the declarative ending -다 combined with the quotative 며 (meaning "saying"). It is primarily used to report what someone else has said.
• Structure:
  • When using ~다며, the sentence typically follows this structure:
    • (Subject) + (Verb/Adjective) + 다며 + (Complement/Additional Clause)

Formation Diagram

Subject + Verb/Adjective + 다며 + Additional Information

3. Comparative Analysis

Comparison with Similar Grammar Points

• ~다고: This form is used in a similar way to report what someone else has said, but it’s used in more straightforward quotations without the conversational nuance that ~다며 provides.

• ~는다고: This form can also denote reported speech but is used specifically for verbs in the present tense.

Key Differences

4. Examples in Context

Sentence Examples

• Formal:
  • 그 선생님이 이 과목이 중요하다며 수업을 하셨어요.
  • Translation: "The teacher said that this subject is important during the class."
• Informal:
  • 친구가 오늘 촬영한다며, 좀 이따 만나자고 했어.
  • Translation: "My friend said they're filming today, so they suggested we meet later."
• Written:
  • 보고서에서 연구원이 환경 보호가 필요하다고 다며 주장을 세웠다.
  • Translation: "In the report, the researcher argued saying that environmental protection is necessary."
• Spoken:
  • 그는 내일 떠난다며 나한테 인사했어.
  • Translation: "He said he’s leaving tomorrow and said goodbye to me."

5. Cultural Notes

Cultural Relevance

Using ~다며 reflects a level of conversational nuance in Korean culture. It shows understanding and consideration of what someone else has stated, creating a layered form of communication, which is significant in a culture that values indirectness and respect for others' opinions.

Levels of Politeness and Formality

The formality of speech in Korean is crucial. When using ~다며, the level of politeness can vary based on context, from informal conversations among friends to more formal speech in academic or professional settings.

Idiomatic Expressions

Common idioms are not typically formed with ~다며, but you might hear phrases like:

• 그냥 지나칠 수 없다며 - "He/She cannot just let it pass."

6. Common Mistakes and Tips

Error Analysis

• Confusion with similar forms: Learners may mix up ~다며 with ~다고 or ~는다고. This can lead to incorrect quotations or misunderstandings in the reporting of speech.

Learning Strategies

• Mnemonic Device: Think of “Damyeo” as an abbreviation for “Reporting what someone Said” to help remember its usage for reported speech.

7. Summary and Review

Key Takeaways

• ~다며 is used to report what someone else has stated, implying a layer of quoting and conversation.
• Understanding the context, formality, and differences between similar constructions is crucial for proper usage.

Quick Recap Quiz

1. What does ~다며 imply in a sentence?
2. How is ~다며 different from ~다고?
3. Provide an example sentence using ~다며 in a context of your choice. Feel free to ask for more examples or clarifications regarding ~다며!