Processing keyword: ~려는데 [ryeonde] (I'm planning to, I want to)

Korean Grammar Point: ~려는데 [ryeonde] (I'm planning to, I want to)

Korean Grammar Lesson: ~려는데 [(으)려는데]

1. Introduction

The grammar point ~려는데 is a useful conjunction in Korean that combines the intention to do something with providing background information or leading into another action or statement. It translates to "I'm planning to...", "I intend to...", or "I want to..." in English. This form is often used to introduce one's plans or intentions before adding additional information or making a request.

2. Core Grammar Explanation

Meaning

~려는데 expresses the speaker's intention or plan to perform an action and often sets the stage for what comes next in the conversation. It can convey:

• A plan or intention: "I am planning to..."
• A reason or background for a following statement.
• An implicit request or suggestion.

Structure

The formation of ~려는데 depends on the verb stem and follows these patterns:

Formation Diagram

Formation Steps

1. Identify the verb stem by removing 다 from the dictionary form of the verb.
2. Attach -려는데 if the verb stem ends with a vowel.
3. Attach -으려는데 if the verb stem ends with a consonant.

Examples

• 가다 (to go) → 가려는데
  "I'm planning to go..."
• 먹다 (to eat) → 먹으려는데
  "I'm planning to eat..."

3. Comparative Analysis

Comparison with Similar Grammar Points

~려고 하는데

• Similarities: Both express intention and provide background information.
• Differences: ~려고 하는데 is the fuller form, explicitly stating "I am trying to..." or "I intend to...". ~려는데 is a contraction and is slightly less formal.

~는데

• Similarities: ~는데 is used to provide background information or contrast.
• Differences: Does not express intention. It follows verbs to link two clauses, often translating as "but" or "and".

Usage Comparison Table

4. Examples in Context

Formal Situations

1. 회의를 시작하려는데 모두 준비되셨나요?
   I am planning to start the meeting; is everyone ready?
2. 보고서를 제출하려는데 추가 자료가 필요해요.
   I want to submit the report, but I need additional materials.

Informal Conversations

1. 영화를 보려는데 같이 갈래?
   I'm planning to watch a movie; want to come along?
2. 밥을 먹으려는데 어디가 좋을까?
   I'm thinking of eating; where would be good?

Written Context

1. 새로운 프로젝트를 시작하려는데 팀원들의 의견을 듣고 싶습니다.
   I'm planning to start a new project and would like to hear the team's opinions.

Spoken Context

1. 집에 가려는데 뭐 필요한 거 있어?
   I'm about to go home; do you need anything?

5. Cultural Notes

Politeness Levels

• ~려는데 can be used in both polite and casual speech, but the overall politeness depends on the rest of the sentence ending.
• In formal situations, it's common to use polite endings like -세요, -습니다.
• In casual situations among friends, more informal endings are acceptable.

Social Norms

Using ~려는데 is a polite way to introduce your intentions while leaving room for input or assistance from others. It reflects the indirect communication style often found in Korean culture.

6. Common Mistakes and Tips

Common Mistakes

1. Incorrect Attachment
   • Incorrect: 가으려는데 (wrong attachment)
   • Correct: 가려는데
2. Using ~는데 without Intention
   • Confusing ~는데 with ~려는데 and omitting the intention aspect.

Tips

• Mnemonic Device: Remember that 려 in ~려는데 comes from 려고, which means "intending to". So, ~려는데 is about intentions.
• Practice: Create sentences expressing your plans followed by a related statement.

7. Summary and Review

Key Takeaways

• ~려는데 is used to express an intention and provide background for what comes next.
• Attach -려는데 to verb stems ending with vowels and -으려는데 to those ending with consonants.
• It's a combination of expressing intent and linking clauses.

Quick Recap Quiz

1. How do you attach ~려는데 to the verb 읽다 (to read)?
   • Answer: 읽으려는데
2. Translate to English: 친구를 만나려는데 시간이 안 맞아요.
   • Answer: I'm planning to meet a friend, but our times don't match up.
3. What is the main function of ~려는데 in a sentence?
   • Answer: To express the speaker's intention to do something and provide background information for the following statement.

Feel free to practice by creating your own sentences using ~려는데!