Processing keyword: ~려고 [ryeogo] (Intending to, planning to)

Korean Grammar Point: ~려고 [ryeogo] (Intending to, planning to)

Korean Grammar Point: ~려고 [ryeogo]

1. Introduction

The grammar point ~려고 (ryeogo) is used to indicate an intention or plan to do something in the near future. This expression can be used in various contexts, making it an essential part of conversational Korean.

2. Core Grammar Explanation

Detailed Explanation

• Meaning: ~려고 expresses the speaker's intention or desire to perform a specific action. It translates to "I intend to," "I plan to," or "I am going to" in English.

• Structure: The structure for using ~려고 involves two parts:

  1. The verb stem (without 다)
  2. The addition of ~려고

• Formation Diagram:

  Verb Stem + -려고
  

Examples of Verb Stem

• 가다 (gada) → 가려고 (garyeogo) [to go]
• 하다 (hada) → 하려고 (haryeogo) [to do]
• 먹다 (meokda) → 먹으려고 (meogeuryeogo) [to eat]

Visual Aids

3. Comparative Analysis

~려고 vs. ~고자

• Both expressions can convey intention, but ~려고 is more commonly used in spoken language, while ~고자 is more formal and literary.
• Example:
  • ~려고: 저는 한국어를 배우려고 합니다. (Jeoneun hangugeoreul baeuryo gohamnida.) "I intend to learn Korean."
  • ~고자: 한국어를 배우고자 합니다. (Hangugeoreul baeugoja hamnida.) "I intend to learn Korean." (more formal)

4. Examples in Context Sentence Examples

• Formal:
  • 한국에 가려고 합니다. (Hanguk-e garyeogo hamnida.) "I plan to go to Korea."
• Informal:
  • 친구한테 전화하려고 해. (Chingu-hante jeonhwaharyeogo hae.) "I’m going to call my friend."
• Spoken:
  • 영화 보려고 해! (Yeonghwa boryeogo hae!) "I’m planning to watch a movie!"
• Written:
  • 다음 주에 여행을 가려고 합니다. (Daeum jue yeohaeng-eul garyeogo hamnida.) "I intend to travel next week."

5. Cultural Notes

Cultural Relevance

In Korean culture, expressing plans and intentions can reflect a level of politeness. It is common to indicate one’s intentions clearly when discussing future activities with others, especially in formal settings.

Idiomatic Expressions

• 가려고 한 대로 (garyeogo han daero): "As intended to go..."

6. Common Mistakes and Tips

Error Analysis

• Mistake: Confusing ~려고 with ~고 있어요 (goh da) (currently doing). Example:
  • Incorrect: 가려고 있어요. (It means "I am going to [do something]" in a progress form, which is wrong.)
  • Correct: 가려고 해요. (I intend to go.)

Learning Strategies

• Mnemonic Device: Remember that ~려고 means “to intend,” think of "you 'plan' to go" which has the sound 'ryeog' in the middle of 'go.'

7. Summary and Review

Key Takeaways

• ~려고 expresses intention or plans.
• It requires the verb stem plus the addition of ~려고.
• Use in both formal and informal contexts but with attention to politeness.

Quick Recap Quiz

1. What does ~려고 express?

   • a) Past actions
   • b) Intention and plans
   • c) Habitual actions

2. How do you conjugate the verb "하다" (to do) with ~려고?

3. Which is more formal: ~려고 or ~고자?