Processing keyword: ~아/어 두다 [a/eo duda] (Keep, leave)

Korean Grammar Point: ~아/어 두다 [a/eo duda] (Keep, leave)

Grammar Point: ~아/어 두다 [a/eo duda] (Keep, Leave)

1. Introduction

The Korean grammar structure ~아/어 두다 is used to indicate that something is kept, left, or placed somewhere for a period of time. It expresses the idea of maintaining a state or leaving something in a certain condition.

2. Core Grammar Explanation

Detailed Explanation

• Meaning: ~아/어 두다 suggests that an action is done with the intent of leaving the result as it is for some time.
• Structure: It is formed by combining the verb stem with the appropriate suffix, which changes based on the last vowel of the verb stem, followed by 두다.

Formation Diagram

1. Take the verb stem (remove다).
2. Add ~아/어 based on the last vowel.
3. Attach 두다.

   Last Vowel of Verb	Suffix to Use	Example
   ㅏ, ㅗ	아	먹다 → 먹어 두다 (to eat and keep it)
   ㅓ, ㅜ, ㅣ and others	어	마시다 → 마셔 두다 (to drink and keep it)
   Irregular verbs	Follow rules of irregular verbs	자르다 → 잘라 두다 (to cut and keep it)

Summary of Structure

[Verb Stem] + [아/어] + 두다

3. Comparative Analysis

Comparison with Similar Grammar Points

• ~아/어 놓다: This is also used to indicate leaving something in a certain state, but emphasizes a more static state or placement than ~아/어 두다.
  • Example: 책을 탁자 위에 두다 (I will leave the book on the table) vs. 책을 탁자 위에 놓다 (I will set the book on the table).
• ~고 있다: Used to describe ongoing actions rather than completion or leaving something as it is.
  • Example: 열고 있다 (I am opening something) versus 열어 두다 (I have opened it and left it that way).

4. Examples in Context

Sentence Examples

1. Formal Written:

   • 책을 책상 위에 놓아 두었습니다.
     (I have left the book on the desk.)

2. Informal Spoken:

   • 컴퓨터를 켜 두었어.
     (I left the computer on.)

3. Future Context:

   • 다 끝내고 나면 짐을 거기에 두고 갈 거야.
     (After finishing everything, I will leave the items over there.)

4. Casual Context:

   • 이 의자에 가방을 두고 왔어.
     (I left my bag on this chair.)

5. Cultural Notes

Cultural Relevance

In Korean culture, there is respect associated with leaving things for others or presenting things in a manner that shows consideration for their use. Using 맞는 표현 for phrases like this indicates an understanding of social obligations.

Levels of Politeness

Politeness levels are crucial in Korean. The above phrases can be adjusted to fit various levels of formality, such as:

• Formal: ~습니다 (-seumnida).
• Informal: ~어 for casual conversations.

Idiomatic Expressions

• 가방을 두고 가다 (to leave the bag behind)
• 물건을 제자리에 두다 (to put things in their proper place)

6. Common Mistakes and Tips

Error Analysis

• Common mistakes include confusion between ~아/어 두다 and ~아/어 놓다.
• Overgeneralizing the use of ~아/어 with all verbs can lead to incorrect forms.

Learning Strategies

• Mnemonic Device: Think of 두다 as "to keep," where "two" (2) and "da" sounds like "to" as a reminder to keep something "two ways."
• Practice with scenarios or physical objects to reinforce memory.

7. Summary and Review

Key Takeaways

• ~아/어 두다 is used when something is kept or left intentionally.
• The formation depends on the last vowel of the verb stem.
• It differs from similar structures such as ~아/어 놓다.

Quick Recap Quiz

1. What does ~아/어 두다 mean?
2. How do you form it with the verb 자다 (to sleep)?
3. Give an example sentence using ~아/어 두다 in a casual context.

By understanding and practicing this grammar point, learners can effectively convey the intention of leaving something in a certain condition or place in Korean conversations.