Processing keyword: ~아/어지다 [a/eojida] (To become)

Korean Grammar Point: ~아/어지다 [a/eojida] (To become)

Grammar Point: ~아/어지다 [a/eojida] (To Become)

1. Introduction

The Korean grammar point "~아/어지다" is used to indicate a change in state or status, often translated to "to become" in English. This structure expresses the transformation of a noun or adjective into a new state.

2. Core Grammar Explanation

Detailed Explanation

• Meaning: The suffix "~아/어지다" implies that something is changing into a different condition or state.
• Structure: The structure consists of an adjective stem attached to either "아지다" or "어지다" depending on the final vowel of the stem.

Formation Diagram

Examples:

• 맑다 (to be clear) → 맑아지다 (to become clear)
• 아프다 (to be sick) → 아파지다 (to become sick)
• 차갑다 (to be cold) → 차가워지다 (to become cold)

3. Comparative Analysis

Comparison with Similar Grammar Points:

• ~이/가 되다: While both "아/어지다" and "이/가 되다" can express becoming, "이/가 되다" is more commonly used with nouns (e.g., "선생님이 되다" – "to become a teacher"). In contrast, "아/어지다" applies to adjectives and verbs. Example:
• 학생이 되다 (to become a student) vs. 똑똑해지다 (to become smart).

4. Examples in Context

Sentence Examples:

1. Formal/Spoken:
   • 날씨가 더워졌어요. (The weather has become hot.)
   • 이 문제가 쉽게 풀어질 수 있을까요? (Can this problem become easy to solve?)
2. Informal:
   • 요즘 많이 바빠졌어. (I've become really busy these days.)
   • 나도 점점 이해가 돼. (I’m starting to understand more.)
3. Written:
   • 그 아이는 점점 조용해지고 있다. (That child is becoming quieter.)
   • 이 지역은 안전해졌어요. (This area has become safer.)

5. Cultural Notes

Cultural Relevance

In Korean culture, expressing change through "~아/어지다" can reflect the importance of growth and transformation, embodying societal values of improvement and evolution in personal and communal aspects.

Idiomatic Expressions

• 잘해지다: To become better (often used to indicate improvement in skills).
• 행복해지다: To become happy.

6. Common Mistakes and Tips

Error Analysis

• Using with Nouns: Avoid using "아/어지다" with nouns directly; instead, use "이/가 되다".
• Conjugation Errors: Make sure to identify the correct vowel to determine whether to use "아" or "어".

Learning Strategies

• Mnemonic Device: Remember "A for open vowels and E for the rest" to decide when to use "아" or "어".

7. Summary and Review

Key Takeaways

• "~아/어지다" indicates a change in state.
• Use it after an adjective or verb to express transformation.
• Differentiate from "~이/가 되다" which is for nouns.

Quick Recap Quiz

1. What does the structure "~아/어지다" express?
2. Can you use "~아/어지다" with nouns? Why or why not?
3. Give an example with the adjective "예쁘다" (to be pretty) using "~아/어지다". Answers: To express becoming/changes; No, it is used with adjectives; 예뻐지다 (to become pretty).