Processing keyword: ~어/아 두다 [eo/a duda] (To stop doing)

Korean Grammar Point: ~어/아 두다 [eo/a duda] (To stop doing)

~어/아 두다 [eo/a duda]

1. Introduction

In this lesson, we'll explore the Korean grammar point ~어/아 두다 [eo/a duda], which is used to express completing an action and leaving it in that state, often for future convenience. This structure helps convey that something has been done in advance or that the result of an action remains effective.

2. Core Grammar Explanation

Detailed Explanation

~어/아 두다 is attached to the stem of a verb to indicate that an action has been completed and its effects are maintained. It implies doing something and leaving it as is, often in preparation for the future or to keep the result available.

• Meaning: To do something and leave it that way; to do something in advance; to keep something in a certain state.
• Usage: Verb stem + ~어/아 두다

Formation Diagram

1. Identify the Verb Stem:
   • Remove 다 from the dictionary form.
   • Example: 열다 (to open) → 열 (stem)
2. Determine the Correct Connector:
   • If the last vowel of the stem is ㅏ or ㅗ, use 아 두다.
   • For all other vowels, use 어 두다.
3. **Combine the Stem with the Connector and 두다:
   • 열 + 어 두다 → 열어 두다

Visual Aid

3. Comparative Analysis

Comparison with ~어/아 놓다:

• ~어/아 두다 and ~어/아 놓다 are often used interchangeably as both imply completing an action and leaving it in that state.
• Subtle Difference:
  • ~어/아 두다 emphasizes the ongoing state or future utility.
  • ~어/아 놓다 often stresses the completion of an action, sometimes with a sense of relief or finality.

4. Examples in Context

Sentence Examples

1. 집에 오기 전에 난방을 켜 두었어요.
   • I turned on the heating before coming home (and it's still on).
2. 시험을 대비해서 노트를 정리해 두었어요.
   • I organized my notes in preparation for the exam.
3. 친구가 올 거라서 음식을 미리 준비해 두었어요.
   • Since a friend is coming, I prepared food in advance.
4. 긴 머리를 자르고 싶어서 미용실을 예약해 뒀어요.
   • I booked a hair salon because I want to cut my long hair.
5. 중요한 파일은 별도의 폴더에 저장해 두세요.
   • Please save important files in a separate folder.

Formal vs. Informal Usage

• Formal: 약속 시간을 메모해 두십시오.
  • Please note down the appointment time.
• Informal: 약속 시간을 메모해 둬.
  • Note down the appointment time.

5. Cultural Notes

Cultural Relevance

• Preparation and Forethought: In Korean culture, being prepared and considering future needs is valued. Using ~어/아 두다 reflects this cultural aspect by emphasizing actions done in advance for future benefit.

Levels of Politeness and Formality

• Informal Speech: 친구에게 메시지를 보내 뒀어.
• Polite Speech: 친구에게 메시지를 보내 뒀어요.
• Formal Speech: 친구에게 메시지를 보내 두었습니다.

Idiomatic Expressions

• 길을 알아 두면 나중에 편해요.
  • If you know the way in advance, it will be convenient later.
• 필요한 물건을 사 둬야 해요.
  • I need to buy what I need (and have it ready).

6. Common Mistakes and Tips

Error Analysis

• Confusing with ~어/아 주다: Don't mix up ~어/아 두다 (to do and leave as is) with ~어/아 주다 (to do something for someone).
  • Incorrect: 선물을 사 줘야 해요. (I need to buy a gift for someone.)
  • Correct: 선물을 사 둬야 해요. (I need to buy a gift and have it ready.)
• Incorrect Vowel Harmony:
  • Incorrect: 먹아 두다 (with 먹다)
  • Correct: 먹어 두다

Learning Strategies

• Mnemonic Device: Think of 두다 as "to place" or "to put away." So, ~어/아 두다 means you've done something and placed it in a ready state.
• Practice with Common Verbs:
  • 읽다 (to read) → 읽어 두다
  • 만들다 (to make) → 만들어 두다

7. Summary and Review

Key Takeaways

• ~어/아 두다 is used to indicate that an action has been completed and its results are maintained for future use.
• Attach ~어 두다 or ~아 두다 to the verb stem depending on the vowel harmony.
• Common in contexts where preparation or maintaining a state is important.

Quick Recap Quiz

1. How do you say "I saved the document (and it's still saved)" using ~어/아 두다?
2. What is the correct form of 보다 (to see) with ~어/아 두다?
3. Choose the correct sentence:
   • a) 창문을 닫아 두세요.
   • b) 창문을 닫어 두세요.

Answers:

1. 문서를 저장해 두었어요.
2. 보아 두다 → 봐 두다 (contracted form)
3. a) 창문을 닫아 두세요.

By mastering ~어/아 두다, you enhance your ability to express actions done for future benefits or actions whose results remain over time.