Processing keyword: ~에 힘쓰다 [e himsseuda] (Put effort into)

Korean Grammar Point: ~에 힘쓰다 [e himsseuda] (Put effort into)

1. Introduction

In this lesson, we'll explore the Korean grammar point ~에 힘쓰다 (e himsseuda), which means "to put effort into" or "to strive for". This expression is commonly used to describe dedicating effort or working diligently towards a particular goal or activity.

2. Core Grammar Explanation

Meaning

The expression ~에 힘쓰다 is used to convey that someone is exerting effort or striving towards something. It emphasizes dedication and continuous effort in pursuing a goal or activity.

• 에: A particle indicating the target or focus of the action.
• 힘쓰다: A verb meaning "to exert oneself," "to make efforts," or "to strive."

Structure

The structure involves attaching 에 힘쓰다 to a noun that represents the goal or activity you are putting effort into.

Formation Diagram

[Noun] + 에 힘쓰다

Breakdown

Conjugation of 힘쓰다

힘쓰다 is a regular verb and can be conjugated according to tense and politeness level.

Present Tense

Past Tense

Future Tense

3. Comparative Analysis

Let's compare ~에 힘쓰다 with similar expressions to understand their nuances.

~에 노력하다 (Put effort into)

• Meaning: To make an effort in something.
• Usage: More general; focuses on trying hard. Difference:
• ~에 힘쓰다 emphasizes sustained or dedicated effort, often involving ongoing commitment.
• ~에 노력하다 can refer to effort in a specific instance or overall attempts.

~를 위해 노력하다 (Make efforts for)

• Meaning: To make efforts for someone or something.
• Usage: Emphasizes the beneficiary of the effort.

4. Examples in Context

Sentence Examples

Example 1

환경 보호에 힘쓰고 있습니다.

• I'm putting effort into environmental protection.

Example 2

학생들은 학업에 힘써야 합니다.

• Students should put effort into their studies.

Example 3

그는 지역 사회 발전에 힘썼어요.

• He put effort into the development of the local community.

Example 4

회사는 고객 만족에 힘쓰고 있어요.

• The company is striving for customer satisfaction.

Example 5

저는 건강 관리에 힘쓸 예정입니다.

• I intend to put effort into managing my health.

Context Variations

Formal Situations

정부는 국민 안전에 힘쓰고 있습니다.

• The government is putting effort into public safety.

Informal Situations

요즘 영어 공부에 힘쓰고 있어.

• I'm putting effort into studying English these days.

5. Cultural Notes

Cultural Relevance

In Korean culture, diligence and dedication are highly valued traits. Using expressions like ~에 힘쓰다 reflects a positive attitude towards hard work and commitment, aligning with societal expectations for perseverance in personal and professional endeavors.

Levels of Politeness and Formality

Understanding and using the appropriate level of politeness is crucial in Korean.

• Formal Polite: 힘씁니다
• Informal Polite: 힘써요
• Casual: 힘써 Ensure you adjust the verb ending to match the social context and relationship.

Idiomatic Expressions

온 힘을 다하다

• Meaning: To do one's utmost; to exert all of one's strength.
• Usage: Similar in meaning to ~에 힘쓰다, but emphasizes using all available strength.

6. Common Mistakes and Tips

Error Analysis

Mistake 1: Incorrect Particle Usage

• Incorrect: 환경 보호*를 힘쓰고 있습니다.*
• Correct: 환경 보호*에 힘쓰고 있습니다.* Explanation: The particle 에 should be used to indicate the target of the effort.

Mistake 2: Confusing with 노력하다

• Using 노력하다 when 힘쓰다 is more appropriate for sustained efforts. Tip: Use 힘쓰다 when emphasizing continuous or dedicated effort towards a goal.

Learning Strategies

• Mnemonic Device: Remember that 힘 means "strength," and 쓰다 means "to use." So, 힘쓰다 literally means "to use strength," i.e., "to put effort into."
• Practice: Create sentences about your own efforts in daily life to become comfortable with the structure.

7. Summary and Review

Key Takeaways

• ~에 힘쓰다 is used to express putting effort into a specific goal or activity.
• Attach 에 힘쓰다 to a noun representing the focus of your effort.
• Use the correct particle 에 to indicate the target.
• Conjugate 힘쓰다 according to tense and politeness level.

Quick Recap Quiz

1. Fill in the blank: 저는 한국어 공부___ 힘쓰고 있어요.
   Answer

   에
2. Translate to Korean: They are putting effort into improving customer service.
   Answer

   그들은 고객 서비스 개선에 힘쓰고 있어요.
3. True or False: ~에 힘쓰다 implies a sustained and dedicated effort towards a goal.
   Answer

   True

Additional Practice

Try using ~에 힘쓰다 in sentences about your personal goals or activities you're dedicated to.

• Example: 저는 취업 준비에 힘쓰고 있습니다. (I am putting effort into job preparation.) Feel free to share your sentences for feedback!