Processing keyword: ~도록 [dorok] (So that)
Korean Grammar Point: ~도록 [dorok] (So that)
1. Introduction
The Korean grammar ending ~도록 is a versatile expression used to indicate purpose, extent, or method. It translates to "so that," "in order to," or "to the point where" in English. Understanding how to use ~도록 will enhance your ability to express goals, reasons, and the manner of actions in Korean.
2. Core Grammar Explanation
Meaning and Usage
~도록 is attached to the verb stem to express:
- Purpose or Intention: Indicating the aim or goal of an action.
- Extent or Degree: Describing the extent to which an action is done.
- Method or Manner: Explaining how an action should be carried out.
Structure
Formation
To use ~도록, follow this simple structure:
[Verb Stem] + 도록
- Verb Stem: Remove 다 from the dictionary form of the verb.
- 도록: Attach directly to the verb stem.
Formation Diagram
| Verb (Dictionary Form) | Verb Stem | + 도록 | Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| 가다 (to go) | 가 | 도록 | 가도록 |
| 공부하다 (to study) | 공부하 | 도록 | 공부하도록 |
| 먹다 (to eat) | 먹 | 도록 | 먹도록 |
Visual Aid: Structure Breakdown
[Action Verb Stem] + 도록
↓
공부하 + 도록 = 공부하도록
3. Comparative Analysis
Comparing with Similar Grammar Points
~기 위해(서) (In order to)
| Grammar Point | Usage | Nuance |
|---|---|---|
| ~도록 | So that, to the extent | Focuses on the method or extent |
| ~기 위해(서) | In order to | Emphasizes the purpose or intent |
- Difference: While both indicate purpose, ~도록 can also express extent or manner, whereas ~기 위해(서) is strictly used for purpose.
Example Comparison
- ~도록: 이해하도록 설명했다. (I explained so that they understand.)
- ~기 위해서: 이해하기 위해서 설명했다. (I explained in order to understand.)
4. Examples in Context
Sentence Examples
Purpose or Intention
- Formal Written
- 시간을 절약하도록 지름길로 갑시다.
- Let's take a shortcut so that we save time.
- Casual Spoken
- 잊지 않도록 메모해 둬.
- Make a note so that you don't forget.
Extent or Degree
- Descriptive
- 눈물이 나도록 웃었어요.
- I laughed to the point of tears.
- Emphatic
- 귀가 떨어지도록 추웠어요.
- It was so cold that my ears almost fell off.
Method or Manner
- Instructional
- 모두가 들을 수 있도록 크게 말해 주세요.
- Please speak loudly so that everyone can hear.
- Request
- 문제가 없도록 미리 확인합시다.
- Let's check in advance so that there are no problems.
Various Contexts
- Polite Formal
- 학생들이 이해할 수 있도록 자세히 설명했습니다.
- I explained in detail so that the students could understand.
- Casual Informal
- 네가 편하도록 여기 앉아.
- Sit here so that you're comfortable.
- Written Formal
- 사고가 발생하지 않도록 주의하시기 바랍니다.
- Please be cautious so that accidents do not occur.
5. Cultural Notes
Cultural Relevance
- Emphasis on Collective Well-being: In Korean culture, actions are often taken with consideration for others. Using ~도록 can reflect this by expressing actions done so that others might benefit.
Levels of Politeness and Formality
- Versatile Usage: ~도록 is appropriate in both formal and informal contexts. The level of politeness is adjusted through the verb endings that follow.
Idiomatic Expressions
- 뼈에 사무치도록: To the bone (deeply moving or affecting).
- 그의 말이 뼈에 사무치도록 와 닿았다.
- His words touched me deeply to the bone.
- 밤새도록: All night long.
- 우리는 밤새도록 얘기했어요.
- We talked all night long.
6. Common Mistakes and Tips
Error Analysis
- Incorrect Verb Attachment:
- Mistake: 피곤하도록운동했어요.
- Correction: 피곤하도록 운동했어요.
- I exercised to the point of exhaustion.
- **Confusing with ~도록 하다:
- ~도록 하다 is a separate grammar structure meaning "to make sure to" or "try to."
- Example: 늦지 않도록 하세요. (Please make sure not to be late.)
Learning Strategies
- Mnemonic Device: Remember "Do Rock" – Do something so that a "rock-solid" result is achieved.
- Practice Sentences: Create your own sentences using verbs you commonly use.
7. Summary and Review
Key Takeaways
- ~도록 is used to express purpose, extent, or method.
- Attach ~도록 directly to the verb stem.
- It is versatile and can be used in various contexts and levels of speech.
Quick Recap Quiz
- What does ~도록 express when attached to a verb stem?
- Answer: Purpose/intention, extent/degree, or method/manner of an action.
- How do you form a sentence using ~도록 with the verb 먹다 (to eat)?
- Answer: 먹도록 (Attach ~도록 to the stem 먹).
- Translate the following sentence using ~도록:
- "I study hard so that I can pass the test."
- Answer: 시험에 합격하도록 열심히 공부해요.
By mastering ~도록, you enhance your ability to articulate intentions and describe actions more vividly in Korean. Keep practicing by incorporating this grammar point into your daily conversations!