Processing keyword: ~아/어 놓다 [a/eo nohda] (Do in advance, set something up)
Korean Grammar Point: ~아/어 놓다 [a/eo nohda] (Do in advance, set something up)
1. Introduction
The Korean grammar pattern ~아/어 놓다 is used to express the completion of an action with the intention of leaving it in that state for some time. It often carries the meaning of doing something in advance or setting something up to be ready for future use.
2. Core Grammar Explanation
Detailed Explanation
Meaning:
- To do something and leave it as is.
- To complete an action in preparation for the future.
- Similar to "to have done something (in advance)" in English. Usage:
- ~아/어 놓다 is attached to the verb stem.
- It emphasizes that the action is done intentionally and the result remains.
Formation
- Identify the Verb Stem: Remove 다 from the base form of the verb to find the stem.
- Determine the Connecting Vowel (~아/어):
- If the last vowel of the verb stem is ᅡ or ᅩ, use 아 놓다.
- For all other vowels, use 어 놓다.
- If the verb stem ends with 하, it changes to 해 놓다.
- Combine the Verb Stem with ~아/어 놓다:
[Verb Stem] + 아/어 놓다
Formation Diagram
Verb Stem + 아/어 놓다
(보) + 아 놓다 = 보아 놓다 --> 봐 놓다
(먹) + 어 놓다 = 먹어 놓다
(하다) + 여 놓다 = 해 놓다
Visual Aid: Usage Table
| Verb Infinitive | Verb Stem | Last Vowel | Connecting Vowel | Resulting Form |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 보다 (to see) | 보 | ᅩ | 아 놓다 | 봐 놓다 |
| 먹다 (to eat) | 먹 | ᅥ | 어 놓다 | 먹어 놓다 |
| 하다 (to do) | 하 | ᅡ | 여 놓다 | 해 놓다 |
3. Comparative Analysis
Comparison with ~아/어 두다
- ~아/어 두다 is similar in meaning to ~아/어 놓다, both implying doing something and leaving it as is.
- Difference:
- ~아/어 놓다 often emphasizes the intentional preparation or setting up.
- ~아/어 두다 emphasizes the maintenance or continuation of a state for convenience. Example:
- 문을 닫아 놓았어요. (I closed the door [and it's intended to stay closed].)
- 문을 닫아 두었어요. (I closed the door [and it's remaining closed].)
4. Examples in Context
Formal Situations
- 회의실을 예약해 놓았습니다.
- I have reserved the meeting room.
- 자료를 미리 준비해 놓겠습니다.
- I will prepare the materials in advance.
Informal Situations
- 나중에 먹으려고 음식을 남겨 놓았어.
- I left some food to eat later.
- 친구를 위해 선물을 사 놓았어.
- I bought a gift for my friend (and have it ready).
Written Context
- 필요한 정보를 메모해 놓았다.
- I have noted down the necessary information.
Spoken Context
- 자리 좀 맡아 놓을게요.
- I'll save you a seat.
5. Cultural Notes
Cultural Relevance
In Korean culture, being prepared and considerate is valued. Using ~아/어 놓다 reflects the speaker's intention to prepare something in advance for themselves or others, demonstrating thoughtfulness and responsibility.
Levels of Politeness
- The formality depends on the verb ending attached after 놓다.
- Formal Polite: 놓았습니다, 놓겠어요
- Informal Polite: 놓았어요, 놓을게요
- Casual: 놓았어, 놓을게
Idiomatic Expressions
- 손을 씻어 놓다
- To wash hands (and be ready)
- 길을 알아 놓다
- To find out the way (in advance)
6. Common Mistakes and Tips
Error Analysis
- Incorrect Connecting Vowel
- Mistake: 먹다 ➔ 먹아 놓다 ❌
- Correction: 먹다 ➔ 먹어 놓다 ✔️
- Confusing with Progressive Tense
- Mistake: 읽고 있어 놓았어요 ❌
- Correction: 읽어 놓았어요 ✔️
Learning Strategies
- Mnemonic for Connecting Vowel:
- "아/오 with 아, the rest with 어."
- Remembering the Purpose:
- Think of 놓다 as "to place," so you're "placing" an action completed and leaving it.
7. Summary and Review
Key Takeaways
- ~아/어 놓다 is used to express completing an action and leaving it in that state, often for future use.
- The choice between 아 and 어 depends on the last vowel of the verb stem.
- It conveys intentionality and preparation.
Quick Recap Quiz
- How do you form ~아/어 놓다 with the verb 준비하다?
- Answer: 준비해 놓다
- Choose the correct form: 열다 + ~아/어 놓다
- A) 열아 놓다
- B) 열어 놓다
- Answer: B) 열어 놓다
- Translate to Korean: "I have written down the address."
- Answer: 주소를 적어 놓았어요.
By understanding and practicing ~아/어 놓다, you can express actions done in advance and enhance your ability to communicate preparation and intentionality in Korean.