Processing keyword: ~어야지 [eoyaji] (Intention, resolution)

Korean Grammar Point: ~어야지 [eoyaji] (Intention, resolution)

1. Introduction

In Korean, expressing intentions, resolutions, or a strong sense of obligation often involves specific grammatical structures. One such structure is ~어야지. This grammar point is used to indicate that the speaker or someone else should or must do something. It reflects a decision or determination to perform an action.

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2. Core Grammar Explanation

Meaning

The suffix ~어야지 is attached to a verb stem to express:

• Intention: Deciding to do something.
• Resolution: Determination to carry out an action.
• Obligation: Feeling that one should or must do something. It can be translated as "I should...", "I must...", or "I ought to..." in English.

Structure

Formation Diagram

Verb Stem Type	Addition	Result
Verb stem ending with 아/오 vowels	-아야지	가 + 아야지 → 가야지
Verb stem ending with other vowels	-어야지	먹 + 어야지 → 먹어야지
Verb stem ending with 하	-해야지	공부하 + 해야지 → 공부해야지

Detailed Explanation

1. Identify the Verb Stem: Remove -다 from the dictionary form of the verb.
   • 가다 → 가
   • 먹다 → 먹
   • 하다 → 하
2. Add the Appropriate Ending:
   • If the verb stem ends with 아 or 오 vowel, add -아야지.
     • 가 + 아야지 → 가야지 (I should go.)
   • If the verb stem ends with any other vowel, add -어야지.
     • 먹 + 어야지 → 먹어야지 (I should eat.)
   • For verbs ending with 하, add -해야지.
     • 하 + 해야지 → 해야지 (I should do.)

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3. Comparative Analysis

Comparison with Similar Grammar Points

• ~어야겠다: Also expresses intention or obligation but is slightly less strong and more reflective. It often conveys a realization.
  • 일찍 자야겠다. (I guess I should sleep early.)
• ~기로 하다: Used to indicate a decided plan or promise.
  • 운동하기로 했어. (I decided to exercise.)
• ~어야지요: A more polite form, often used when giving gentle advice or suggesting that someone should do something.
  • 약을 드셔야지요. (You should take the medicine.)

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4. Examples in Context

Formal Situations

1. 공부를 열심히 해야지.
   • I should study hard.
2. 건강을 위해 운동을 해야지.
   • I must exercise for my health.

Informal Situations

1. 이제 집에 가야지.
   • I should go home now.
2. 배가 고프네. 뭐 먹어야지.
   • I'm hungry. I should eat something.

Spoken Language

1. 늦었네! 빨리 출발해야지.
   • It's late! I must leave quickly.
2. 다음에는 실수하지 말아야지.
   • I shouldn't make mistakes next time.

Written Language

1. 새해에는 새 목표를 세워야지.
   • I should set new goals for the New Year.
2. 환경 보호를 위해 노력해야지.
   • We must make efforts to protect the environment.

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5. Cultural Notes

Cultural Relevance

In Korean culture, expressing one's intentions and resolutions is important, especially during times like the New Year or before embarking on significant endeavors. Using ~어야지 conveys a sense of personal responsibility and commitment.

Levels of Politeness and Formality

• Informal Politeness: ~어야지 is casual and often used among friends or when talking to oneself.
• Formal Politeness: Adding 요 to form ~어야지요 makes it more polite and suitable for formal situations.

Idiomatic Expressions

• 힘을 내야지!
  • I should cheer up! / Let's be strong!
• 잊지 말아야지.
  • I shouldn't forget.

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6. Common Mistakes and Tips

Error Analysis

• Using the Wrong Ending: Confusing -아야지 and -어야지.
  • Incorrect: 먹아야지 (✖)
  • Correct: 먹어야지 (✔)
• Overusing in Formal Contexts: Using ~어야지 in situations that require higher politeness levels.
  • Instead, use ~어야겠습니다 or ~어야지요.

Learning Strategies

• Mnemonic Device: Remember that 아/오 → 아야지, others → 어야지.
• Practice with Common Verbs: Make a list of frequently used verbs and practice forming ~어야지 with them.

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7. Summary and Review

Key Takeaways

• ~어야지 is used to express intention, resolution, or obligation.
• Formed by attaching -아야지 / -어야지 / -해야지 to the verb stem.
• Reflects a personal decision to perform an action.
• Used more in informal contexts; add 요 for politeness.

Quick Recap Quiz

1. How do you say "I should exercise" using ~어야지?
   • 운동해야지.
2. Which ending do you use with the verb 마시다 (to drink) to form ~어야지?
   • 마시 + 어야지 → 마셔야지.
3. True or False: ~어야지 can be used in formal writing without any modifications.
   • False (It's more common in informal contexts; for formal writing, use ~어야겠습니다.)

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Feel free to practice by creating your own sentences using ~어야지 to express your intentions and resolutions!

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