Processing keyword: ~도록 [dorok] (So that, in order to)
Korean Grammar Point: ~도록 [dorok] (So that, in order to)
1. Introduction
In Korean, ~도록 (pronounced dorok) is a versatile grammatical particle used to express purpose, result, or extent. It is often translated as "so that," "in order to," or "to the extent that" in English. Mastering ~도록 will enhance your ability to convey intentions, goals, and degrees of actions in more nuanced ways in both spoken and written Korean.
2. Core Grammar Explanation
Meaning and Usage
~도록 is attached to verbs to express:
- Purpose or intention: Indicating the goal or purpose of an action.
- Result or effect: Showing the outcome or effect caused by an action.
- Extent or degree: Describing the extent to which an action is done.
Structure
The general formation is:
- Verb Stem + 도록
Formation Diagram
[Verb Stem] + 도록
Detailed Explanation
- Expressing Purpose or Intention
When ~도록 is used to express purpose, it is similar to "so that" or "in order to" in English.
- Example: 이해하도록 설명하다.
- Translation: Explain so that (someone) understands.
- Expressing Result or Effect
It can indicate that a preceding action results in a certain effect.
- Example: 길이 막히지 않도록 일찍 출발하세요.
- Translation: Depart early so that you don't get stuck in traffic.
- Expressing Extent or Degree
Describes doing something to a certain extent or degree.
- Example: 목이 아프도록 소리치다.
- Translation: Shout to the extent that one's throat hurts.
Visual Aid: Usage Breakdown Table
| Usage | Meaning | Example | Translation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Purpose or Intention | So that, In order to | 이해하도록 노력하다 | Try so that (someone) understands |
| Result or Effect | So that (result happens) | 넘어지지 않도록 조심하세요 | Be careful so that you don't fall |
| Extent or Degree | To the extent that | 밤새도록 공부하다 | Study to the extent that (you) stay up all night |
3. Comparative Analysis
Comparing ~도록 with ~기 위해(서)
Both ~도록 and ~기 위해(서) can express purpose, but there are nuances.
- ~도록 can be used for both purpose and extent, whereas ~기 위해서 is primarily for purpose.
- ~도록 is more versatile and can imply causing an effect or result.
| Grammar Point | Usage | Example | Translation |
|---|---|---|---|
| ~도록 | Purpose/Extent/Result | 기억하도록 메모하세요. | Make a note so that you remember. |
| ~기 위해서 | Purpose only | 기억하기 위해서 메모하세요. | Make a note in order to remember. |
4. Examples in Context
Formal Context
- 회의에 늦지 않도록 빨리 가십시오.
- Please go quickly so that you are not late for the meeting.
- 환경을 보호하도록 노력합시다.
- Let's make efforts so that we protect the environment.
Informal Context
- 감기에 걸리지 않도록 따뜻하게 입어.
- Dress warmly so that you don't catch a cold.
- 시험에 합격하도록 열심히 공부했어.
- I studied hard so that I could pass the exam.
Written Context
- 사람들이 이해할 수 있도록 자세히 설명했습니다.
- I explained in detail so that people could understand.
- 데이터가 손실되지 않도록 백업을 만들었습니다.
- I created a backup so that data wouldn't be lost.
Spoken Context
- 넘어지지 않도록 조심해!
- Be careful so that you don't fall!
- 네가 들을 수 있도록 크게 말할게.
- I'll speak loudly so that you can hear.
5. Cultural Notes
Levels of Politeness and Formality
- ~도록 can be used in both formal and informal situations without changing its form.
- The level of politeness is conveyed through sentence endings rather than the particle ~도록 itself.
Idiomatic Expressions Using ~도록
- 뼈가 부러지도록 운동하다
- To exercise to the extent that bones break (meaning excessive exercise)
- 입이 아프도록 말하다
- To talk to the extent that the mouth hurts (meaning talking a lot or repeatedly)
6. Common Mistakes and Tips
Common Mistakes
- **Confusing with ~까지
- Incorrect: 밤새까지 공부했어요. (Using ~까지 to express extent)
- Correct: 밤새도록 공부했어요.
- Using ~도록 with adjectives
- Incorrect: 예쁜도록 꽃을 샀어요. (~도록 is not used with adjectives)
- Correct: 예쁜 꽃을 샀어요.
Tips to Remember
- Mnemonic for Purpose: Think of ~도록 as "do-rock" your goal (do it to achieve the goal).
- Association for Extent: Associate ~도록 with "to the limit of the action."
7. Summary and Review
Key Takeaways
- ~도록 is used to express purpose, result, or extent.
- It's attached directly to verb stems.
- Versatile in expressing "so that," "in order to," or "to the extent that."
- Can be used in various contexts without changing form.
Quick Recap Quiz
- How do you express "Study hard so that you can succeed" using ~도록?
- Answer: 성공하도록 열심히 공부하세요.
- True or False: ~도록 can be used with adjectives.
- Answer: False
- Fill in the blank: 넘어지지 않_____ 조심하세요. (So that you don't fall, be careful.)
- Answer: 넘어지지 않도록 조심하세요.
By understanding and practicing ~도록, you'll be able to express purposes and extents more naturally in Korean, enhancing both your speaking and comprehension skills.