Processing keyword: ~도록 하다 [dorok hada] (To try to, to make sure to)

Korean Grammar Point: ~도록 하다 [dorok hada] (To try to, to make sure to)

~도록 하다 [dorok hada] (To try to, to make sure to)

Introduction

The Korean grammar point ~도록 하다 is often used to express intention or an effort to achieve something. It conveys the sense of "trying to do" something or "making sure" that something happens. This structure is commonly used in both spoken and written Korean.

Core Grammar Explanation

Detailed Explanation

• Meaning: The structure ~도록 하다 indicates that the speaker is making an effort or trying to ensure a certain action takes place. It can reflect both a personal commitment and an instruction to others.
• Structure:
  • The basic form of the grammar point consists of a verb stem + ~도록 하다.
  • Formation Diagram:

    Verb Stem + 도록 하다
                ↓
        Intention or effort to do (to try to, to make sure to)
    

Examples

• 가다 (gada - to go) → 가도록 하다 (gadorok hada - to try to go)
• 먹다 (meokda - to eat) → 먹도록 하다 (meokdorok hada - to try to eat)

Visual Aids

Comparative Analysis

• ~게 하다 (ge hada): This structure is used to express "to make someone do something" or "to allow someone to do". While both ~도록 하다 and ~게 하다 can imply intention, ~도록 하다 focuses more on the speaker's effort, whereas ~게 하다 emphasizes the action being caused by someone else or allowing someone else to act.

Example for comparison:

• ~도록 하다: 공부하도록 하겠습니다. (I will try to study.)
• ~게 하다: 그를 공부하게 해주세요. (Please make him study.)

Examples in Context

Sentence Examples

1. Informal Spoken:
   "이번 주에 친구와 영화를 보도록 해."
   (Try to watch a movie with your friend this week.)

2. Formal Written:
   "회사를 위해 최선을 다하도록 하겠습니다."
   (I will try my best for the company.)

3. Casual Conversation:
   "다음에는 좀 더 많이 준비하도록 할게."
   (Next time, I'll try to prepare more.)

4. Professional Setting:
   "프로젝트가 늦어지지 않도록 하세요."
   (Please make sure that the project doesn’t get delayed.)

Cultural Notes

• Cultural Relevance: In Korean culture, showing effort and making intentions clear is highly valued. Using ~도록 하다 in a conversation conveys responsibility and commitment, which are important social values in Korea.
• Politeness Levels: The structure can be modified to fit different levels of politeness. Using it in a personal context (e.g., friends) can be casual, while formal settings (e.g., work or meeting elders) require a more respectful tone.

Idiomatic Expressions

• "노력하도록 하다" (noryeokdorok hada): "to try hard" - Often used to indicate putting in effort towards a goal.

Common Mistakes and Tips

Error Analysis

• Frequent Mistake: Using the wrong verb form before ~도록 하다. Ensure you are using the verb stem without any endings.
• Confusing with ~게 하다: Remember that ~도록 하다 reflects the speaker’s intention, while ~게 하다 implies causing or permitting someone else to act.

Learning Strategies

• Mnemonic Device: Think of “to do something” as "to make sure" and relate it to how you firmly plan tasks.

Summary and Review

Key Takeaways

• ~도록 하다 is used to express intention or effort to ensure an action occurs.
• It combines with verb stems and is important for conveying commitment in both formal and informal contexts.
• Be aware of the differences with similar structures like ~게 하다.

Quick Recap Quiz

1. How would you express "try to study" using ~도록 하다?
2. What is the difference between ~도록 하다 and ~게 하다? Feel free to provide your answers, and I can help clarify any points!