Processing keyword: ~마저 [majeo] (Even)

Korean Grammar Point: ~마저 [majeo] (Even)

Grammar Point: ~마저 [majeo] (Even)

1. Introduction

The grammar point ~마저 is used to express an extreme case that adds emphasis to a statement. It translates to "even" in English and indicates that not only the item mentioned previously, but also the new item is included in what is being discussed. This particle can convey a sense of frustration, surprise, or emphasis.

2. Core Grammar Explanation

Meaning

• ~마저 conveys that not only the items or subjects mentioned previously are involved, but it also includes an additional item, emphasizing the inclusiveness.

Structure

• The structure involves attaching ~마저 after the noun or subject to which you want to add emphasis.

Formation Diagram

• Noun + 마저 → (Emphasized statement)

Example

• 친구마저 → (Even my friend)

Detailed Explanation

1. Usage After Nouns:
   • ~마저 is attached directly to nouns.
   • It typically follows a subject that you want to emphasize as also being included in a negative or extreme situation.
2. Possible Negative Nuances:
   • Usually conveys a hint of annoyance, disappointment, or surprise.

3. Comparative Analysis

Similar Grammar Points

• ~까지 [kkaji] (up to/even to): Indicates inclusion as well, but it’s more neutral compared to ~마저, which often carries a negative connotation.

• ~조차 [jocha] (even): Similar in meaning but often emphasizes unexpectedness more explicitly, often used in a negative context.

Example Comparison

• ~마저: "돈이 없어서 친구마저 빌려주지 못해." (I don’t have money, so I can’t even lend to my friend.)
• ~까지: "돈이 없어서 친구까지 빌려주지 못해." (I don’t have money, so I can’t lend even to my friend.)

4. Examples in Context

Sentence Examples

Formal Context

1. 회의에 오지 못한 사람마저 다 발표를 했어요.
   • (Even the people who couldn’t attend the meeting made presentations.)

Informal Context

2. 비도 오고, 친구마저 안 오니까 완전 망했어.
   • (It’s raining, and even my friend didn’t come, so it’s completely ruined.)

Written Context

3. 그렇게 많은 고난을 겪어도 가족마저 포기하지 않았습니다.
   • (Even after enduring so many hardships, they didn’t give up on their family.)

Spoken Context

4. 시험에 떨어졌는데, 교수님마저 내 편이 아니더라.
   • (I failed the exam, and even the professor wasn’t on my side.)

5. Cultural Notes

Cultural Relevance

• The use of ~마저 can reflect Korean cultural nuances regarding relationships and expectations. Having even close friends or family members involved in a negative context may evoke strong feelings of disappointment and is often expressed in conversational language.

Levels of Politeness

• The formality of speech can affect how ~마저 is used. In formal settings, it might be smoother in its application with respect to respect and politeness levels in conversations.

Idiomatic Expressions

• 친구마저 잃다 (to even lose a friend): Indicates a situation where one has lost even the closest ties, generally used in a negative context.

6. Common Mistakes and Tips

Error Analysis

• Common Mistake: Students often confuse ~마저 with ~조차. Remember that ~마저 is more about the negative side or a more extreme scenario.

Learning Strategies

• Mnemonic Device: Think of ~마저 as "even my friend" — if you feel extreme or surprised, you can likely use ~마저 in your sentence.

7. Summary and Review

Key Takeaways

• ~마저 (even) stresses the inclusion of something unexpected or negative alongside what has already been mentioned.
• It's commonly used in spoken contexts to express strong emotions, especially disappointment or frustration.

Quick Recap Quiz

1. What does ~마저 express in a sentence?
2. How is ~마저 different from ~까지?
3. Provide an example of ~마저 in an informal context. By grasping this grammar point, learners can better articulate feelings of frustration or surprise, enhancing their conversational skills in Korean.