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.

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2. Core Grammar Explanation

Meaning and Usage

~도록 is attached to the verb stem to express:

1. Purpose or Intention: Indicating the aim or goal of an action.
2. Extent or Degree: Describing the extent to which an action is done.
3. 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

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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.)

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4. Examples in Context

Sentence Examples

Purpose or Intention

1. Formal Written
   • 시간을 절약하도록 지름길로 갑시다.
   • Let's take a shortcut so that we save time.
2. Casual Spoken
   • 잊지 않도록 메모해 둬.
   • Make a note so that you don't forget.

Extent or Degree

3. Descriptive
   • 눈물이 나도록 웃었어요.
   • I laughed to the point of tears.
4. Emphatic
   • 귀가 떨어지도록 추웠어요.
   • It was so cold that my ears almost fell off.

Method or Manner

5. Instructional
   • 모두가 들을 수 있도록 크게 말해 주세요.
   • Please speak loudly so that everyone can hear.
6. 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.

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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.

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6. Common Mistakes and Tips

Error Analysis

1. Incorrect Verb Attachment:
   • Mistake: 피곤하도록운동했어요.
   • Correction: 피곤하도록 운동했어요.
   • I exercised to the point of exhaustion.
2. **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.

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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

1. What does ~도록 express when attached to a verb stem?
   • Answer: Purpose/intention, extent/degree, or method/manner of an action.
2. How do you form a sentence using ~도록 with the verb 먹다 (to eat)?
   • Answer: 먹도록 (Attach ~도록 to the stem 먹).
3. Translate the following sentence using ~도록:
   • "I study hard so that I can pass the test."
   • Answer: 시험에 합격하도록 열심히 공부해요.

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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!

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