Processing keyword: ~마련이다 [maryeonida] (Bound to, tend to)

Korean Grammar Point: ~마련이다 [maryeonida] (Bound to, tend to)

Introduction

The Korean grammar point ~마련이다 [maryeonida] expresses the idea of being bound to do something or having a tendency toward a certain action or situation. It often implies that there is an expectation or inevitability regarding the action.

Core Grammar Explanation

Meaning

• ~마련이다 is used to indicate that something is expected to happen or is bound to happen due to a certain condition.

Structure

• The structure for using ~마련이다 is:

  Verb stem + -마련이다
  

Formation Diagram

[Verb Stem] + 마련이다 → Indicates tendency/inevitability
    |
    +--- Expresses an action that is expected/inevitable

Example

• 생각하다 (to think) →
  • 생각할 마련이다 (bound to think)

Comparative Analysis

Comparison with Similar Grammar Points

1. ~기 마련이다: This is a close relative which also expresses inevitability but is more commonly used to point out natural outcomes of actions. For example:

   • 사람은 다 실수를 하기가 마련이다.
     • (People are bound to make mistakes.)

2. ~게 되어 있다: This can also indicate something that will happen but with less emphasis on the inherent tendency.

   • 그는 곧 돌아오게 되어 있다.
     • (He is bound to come back soon.) The key difference is that ~마련이다 emphasizes a tendency or characteristic linked inherently to a subject.

Examples in Context

Sentence Examples

1. Formal
   • 이 프로젝트는 시간이 많이 걸리기 마련이다.
     • (This project is bound to take a long time.)
2. Informal
   • 너 없이 파티가 재미없기 마련이야.
     • (It’s bound to be boring without you at the party.)
3. Written
   • 사람들이 어려움에 처하면 서로 도와주기 마련이다.
     • (When people find themselves in trouble, they are bound to help each other.)
4. Spoken
   • 날씨가 이렇게 추우면 감기에 걸리기 마련이지!
     • (If the weather is this cold, you’re bound to catch a cold!)

Cultural Notes

Cultural Relevance

The notion of inevitability and tendency is significant in Korean culture, where collective behavior and social norms often guide expectations. Using ~마련이다 reflects an understanding of these social dynamics and can be seen as recognizing a shared experience.

Levels of Politeness

In formal situations, using ~마련이다 would be expected as it conveys a respectful acknowledgment of situations. In casual conversation, it tends to convey familiarity and shared understanding.

Common Mistakes and Tips

Error Analysis

• Learners often confuse ~마련이다 with ~기 마련이다. It's essential to remember that while they share similar meanings, their usage may vary slightly based on context.

Learning Strategies

• A mnemonic device to remember this grammar point could be: “Bound to the act”, emphasizing its inevitable nature.

Summary and Review

Key Takeaways

• ~마련이다 conveys the meaning of being bound to do something or having a tendency toward an action.
• It is formed by attaching -마련이다 to a verb stem.
• It reflects cultural nuances of expectation and social behaviors.

Quick Recap Quiz

1. What is the structure for forming ~마련이다?
2. Provide an example sentence using ~마련이다 in a formal context.
3. How does ~마련이다 differ from ~게 되어 있다?