Processing keyword: ~라는 것이다 [raneun geosida] (It means that)

Korean Grammar Point: ~라는 것이다 [raneun geosida] (It means that)

1. Introduction

The Korean grammar point ~라는 것이다 (pronounced raneun geosida) is commonly used to clarify or explain the meaning of something previously mentioned. It functions similarly to the English phrases "It means that..." or "What (someone) is saying is that...". Understanding this expression is essential for comprehending explanations and definitions in Korean conversations and texts.

2. Core Grammar Explanation

Meaning

~라는 것이다 is used to:

• Clarify or restate what has been said.
• Define or explain a term or concept.
• Emphasize the essence or main point of the preceding statement. It combines the indirect quotation marker ~라는 with 것이다 (which literally translates to "is a thing").

Structure

The structure of ~라는 것이다 is:

[Clause] + ~라는 것이다

• [Clause]: A statement or phrase that you want to explain or define.
• ~라는 것이다: Suffix used to indicate "it means that..."

Formation Diagram

Component	Function
[Base Form]	The dictionary form of the verb/adjective
~라고 하다	Indirect quotation (say that...)
~는	Attributive modifier for verbs
것이다	"It is a thing" (used to explain)
Simplified, it becomes:

1. Verb/Adjective Base Form + ~라고 + 하는 것 + 이다
2. Contracted to: ~라는 것이다

Example of Formation

Suppose we have the verb 말하다 (to speak/say):

1. 말하다 → 말라고 하는 것이다 → 말라는 것이다 But typically, we attach ~라는 것이다 directly to the clause we want to explain.

3. Comparative Analysis

Similar Grammar Points

• ~다는 것이다: Used similarly but often with statements rather than definitions.
• ~이라는 것이다: Used when defining nouns.

Differences

• ~라는 것이다 is often used with verbs and adjectives to explain actions or descriptions.
• ~이라는 것이다 is used with nouns.
• ~다는 것이다 can be used more generally but may not carry the same emphasis on definition or clarification.

4. Examples in Context

Example 1: Definition

Sentence:

• 행복이란 마음의 상태라는 것이다. Translation:
• "Happiness is a state of mind." Explanation:
• Here, ~라는 것이다 is used to define what happiness is.

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Example 2: Clarification in Conversation (Informal)

Sentence:

• 내 말은 우리가 함께 가야 한다는 것이다. Translation:
• "What I'm saying is that we need to go together." Explanation:
• Used to clarify the speaker's point.

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Example 3: Explanation in Formal Writing

Sentence:

• 환경 보호는 미래를 지키는 일이라는 것이다. Translation:
• "Environmental protection means safeguarding the future." Explanation:
• Defines the importance of environmental protection.

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Example 4: Emphasizing a Point (Spoken Formal)

Sentence:

• 중요한 것은 시간 관리라는 것입니다. Translation:
• "The important thing is time management." Explanation:
• Emphasizing what is important.

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Example 5: Idiomatic Expression

Sentence:

• 삶은 계획대로 되지 않는다는 것이다. Translation:
• "Life doesn't go as planned." Explanation:
• General statement about life, using ~라는 것이다 for emphasis.

5. Cultural Notes

Politeness Levels

• The use of ~라는 것이다 can be adjusted for formality:
  • ~라는 것입니다: Formal polite
  • ~라는 거예요: Informal polite
  • ~라는 거야: Informal casual

Idiomatic Expressions

• 사람은 변하지 않는다는 것이다: "It means that people don't change."
  • Common saying reflecting a cultural view on human nature.

6. Common Mistakes and Tips

Common Mistakes

1. Confusing with Direct Speech: Using ~라고 한다 instead of ~라는 것이다 when the intent is to explain or define.
2. Misplacement: Incorrectly positioning ~라는 것이다 in the sentence structure.

Tips

• Mnemonic Device: Remember that ~라는 것이다 is like saying "What that is, is..." in English.
• Practice: Create sentences defining words or concepts you learn using ~라는 것이다 to become comfortable with its usage.

7. Summary and Review

Key Takeaways

• ~라는 것이다 is used to define, explain, or clarify a preceding statement.
• It combines the indirect quotation with 것이다 to express "It means that..."
• Adjust formality by altering the ending (~입니다, ~예요, ~야).

Quick Recap Quiz

1. How do you use ~라는 것이다 to define a noun?
2. What is the difference between ~라는 것이다 and ~다는 것이다?
3. Translate the following sentence to English:
   • 그의 말은 우리가 신중해야 한다는 것이다.

Answers

1. Attach ~이라는 것이다 to the noun to define it.
2. ~라는 것이다 is often used with verbs and adjectives for definitions or explanations, while ~다는 것이다 is used more generally with statements.
3. "What he is saying is that we need to be cautious."

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