Processing keyword: ~에 따르다 [e ddareuda] (To be attributed to, according to)

Korean Grammar Point: ~에 따르다 [e ddareuda] (To be attributed to, according to)

1. Introduction

The Korean grammar point ~에 따르다 is commonly used to express that something is based on, according to, or attributed to a source or criteria. It is an essential structure for conveying information sourced from others, referencing guidelines, or attributing causes.

2. Core Grammar Explanation

Meaning

• ~에 따르다: According to ~, Based on ~, Depending on ~, To be attributed to ~.

Structure

The grammar pattern combines a noun with the postposition ~에, followed by the verb 따르다.

[Noun] + 에 따르다

Formation Diagram

Component	Role
Noun	Source/Criterion
에	Postposition (to)
따르다	Verb (follow)

Detailed Explanation

• 따르다 means to follow.
• When used with ~에, it forms an expression meaning to follow according to a certain source or standard.
• It is often used to present information that is sourced from studies, news, people, rules, etc.

3. Comparative Analysis

Similar Grammar Points

1. ~에 의하면
   • Meaning: According to ~
   • Usage: Similar to ~에 따르다, but often used with reported speech endings like -다고 하다.
   • Example:
     • 소식통에 의하면 그는 한국에 있다고 한다.
     • "According to sources, he is in Korea."
2. ~에 따라서
   • Meaning: Depending on ~, According to ~
   • Usage: Indicates that the outcome changes based on certain conditions.
   • Example:
     • 사람에 따라서 의견이 다를 수 있다.
     • "Opinions can differ depending on the person."

Nuances

• ~에 따르다 is more formal and often used in written language or formal speech.
• ~에 의하면 emphasizes the source of information, often used in news or reports.
• ~에 따라서 highlights variability based on conditions.

4. Examples in Context

Example Sentences

1. Formal/Written
   • 연구 결과에 따르면 이 약은 효과가 있습니다.
   • "According to the research results, this medicine is effective."
2. Informal/Spoken
   • 날씨 예보에 따라 오늘 비가 올 거래.
   • "According to the weather forecast, it will rain today."
3. Official Statement
   • 회사 규정에 따르지 않는 행동은 금지됩니다.
   • "Actions that do not comply with company regulations are prohibited."
4. News Context
   • 정부 발표에 따르면 새로운 정책이 시행될 예정입니다.
   • "According to the government announcement, a new policy will be implemented."
5. Personal Opinion (less common)
   • 내 생각에 따르면 우리는 더 노력해야 해.
   • "According to my thoughts, we need to try harder."

5. Cultural Notes

Cultural Relevance

• Hierarchy and Respect: In Korean culture, referencing authoritative sources shows respect and credibility.
• Formal Communication: Using ~에 따르다 is appropriate in formal settings such as business, academic, or official communications.

Levels of Politeness

• The verb 따르다 can be conjugated to match the politeness level:
  • Formal Polite: 따릅니다
  • Informal Polite: 따라요
  • Casual: 따른다

Idiomatic Expressions

• 규칙에 따르다: To follow the rules.
• 지시사항에 따르다: To follow instructions.

6. Common Mistakes and Tips

Error Analysis

1. Using the wrong particle
   • Incorrect: 규칙을 따르다
   • Correct: 규칙에 따르다 Explanation: Use ~에 따르다 not ~을 따르다 when meaning "according to."
2. **Confusing with 따라서
   • 따라서 means "therefore," while ~에 따라(서) means "according to" or "depending on."
   • Ensure you use 따르다 as a verb when following a noun with ~에.

Learning Strategies

• Mnemonic Device: Think of 따르다 as "to follow." So, ~에 따르다 is "to follow according to ~."
• Association: Link 따르다 with "following" a source or standard.

7. Summary and Review

Key Takeaways

• ~에 따르다 is used to express "according to ~" or "based on ~."
• Structure: [Noun] + 에 따르다
• It is commonly used in formal contexts to cite sources or reference rules.
• Be careful with particles and do not confuse ~에 따르다 with similar expressions.

Quick Recap Quiz

1. How do you say "According to the news, it will snow tomorrow" using ~에 따르다?
2. What is the main difference between ~에 따르다 and ~에 의하면?
3. Correct the error in the sentence: 규칙을 따르다 (when meaning "according to the rules").

Answers:

1. 뉴스에 따르면 내일 눈이 올 것입니다.
2. ~에 따르다 is often used directly with the verb 따르다, while ~에 의하면 is typically used with reported speech endings and emphasizes the source.
3. Correct sentence: 규칙에 따르다

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