Processing keyword: ~도록 하다 [dorok hada] (Make sure, see to it that)
Korean Grammar Point: ~도록 하다 [dorok hada] (Make sure, see to it that)
1. Introduction
In Korean, expressing intention, purpose, or effort often involves specific grammatical structures. One such versatile structure is ~도록 하다. Understanding this grammar point will enhance your ability to express making sure something happens or causing someone to do something.
2. Core Grammar Explanation
Meaning
The grammar pattern ~도록 하다 is used to express:
- Making sure something happens.
- Seeing to it that an action is carried out.
- Giving advice or suggestions with a sense of obligation or necessity. It often translates to "make sure to...", "see to it that...", or "try to..." in English.
Structure
The structure combines a verb stem with -도록 하다:
[Verb Stem] + 도록 하다
Formation Diagram
[Verb Stem] + 도록 하다
- Verb Stem: The base form of the verb without -다.
Visual Aid: Structure Breakdown
| Component | Function |
|---|---|
| Verb Stem | Action or state to be ensured |
| 도록 | Connecting particle indicating purpose or result |
| 하다 | Verb "to do", here expressing causing or ensuring |
3. Comparative Analysis
Comparing ~도록 하다 with Similar Grammar Points
- ~게 하다: Means "to make someone do something" or "let someone do something".
- Example: 먹게 하다 (Let someone eat)
- ~기 위해서: Means "in order to" or "for the sake of".
- Example: 건강을 유지하기 위해서 운동해요. (I exercise to maintain my health.) Difference:
- ~도록 하다 emphasizes making sure an action is performed, often as advice or instruction.
- ~게 하다 focuses on causing or allowing someone else to do something.
- ~기 위해서 expresses purpose or intention behind an action.
4. Examples in Context
Formal Situations
- 회의에 늦지 않도록 하십시오. Please make sure not to be late for the meeting.
- 건강을 위해 매일 운동하도록 합니다. I make sure to exercise daily for my health.
Informal Situations
- 나중에 후회하지 않도록 열심히 공부해. Study hard so you won't regret it later.
- 감기에 걸리지 않도록 옷 따뜻하게 입어. Dress warmly so you don't catch a cold.
Written Context
- 학생들은 시험 준비를 철저히 하도록 하라. Students should make sure to prepare thoroughly for the exam.
Spoken Context
- 쓰레기는 꼭 분리수거하도록 해 주세요. Please make sure to sort the trash.
5. Cultural Notes
Cultural Relevance
In Korean culture, indirect expressions are often used to give commands or make requests politely. ~도록 하다 is a softer way to give instructions or advice, aligning with the cultural emphasis on harmony and respect.
Levels of Politeness and Formality
- Using ~도록 하세요 adds politeness.
- ~도록 해 is casual and used among close friends or those of equal status.
- ~도록 하십시오 is very formal and respectful.
Idiomatic Expressions
- 입조심하도록 해. Make sure to watch what you say.
- 시간 날 때 연락하도록 할게. I'll make sure to contact you when I have time.
6. Common Mistakes and Tips
Error Analysis
- Using the wrong verb form: Attaching ~도록 하다 to the wrong verb form. Incorrect: 먹습니다도록 하다 ❌ Correct: 먹도록 하다 ✅
- Confusing with ~도록 alone: ~도록 can also mean "until" or "so that," but without 하다, it doesn't carry the sense of making sure.
Learning Strategies
- Mnemonic Device: Think of 도록 as "to the extent" and 하다 as "do," so combined, they imply "do (something) to the extent that..."
- Practice with Common Verbs: Apply ~도록 하다 to frequently used verbs to get comfortable with the structure.
7. Summary and Review
Key Takeaways
- ~도록 하다 is used to express making sure an action happens.
- It adds a nuance of obligation or strong suggestion.
- Proper use involves attaching 도록 하다 to the verb stem.
Quick Recap Quiz
- How do you say "Please make sure to arrive on time" using ~도록 하다? Answer: 제시간에 도착하도록 하세요.
- Which is more formal: 하도록 해 or 하도록 하십시오? Answer: 하도록 하십시오 is more formal.
- True or False: ~도록 하다 can be used to express letting someone do something. Answer: False (That's ~게 하다)
By mastering ~도록 하다, you enhance your ability to give polite commands and strong suggestions, reflecting the nuances of Korean language and culture.