Processing keyword: ~이라는 것 [iraneun geot] (The thing called)
Korean Grammar Point: ~이라는 것 [iraneun geot] (The thing called)
1. Introduction
In this lesson, we'll explore the Korean grammar construction ~이라는 것 (iraneun geot), which translates to "the thing called" or "something known as" in English. This expression is commonly used to define, explain, or introduce a concept or object that may not be familiar to the listener.
2. Core Grammar Explanation
Meaning
~이라는 것 is used to:
- Introduce or explain a term, concept, or object.
- Define something that may be unfamiliar.
- Emphasize the name or label of something.
Structure
The structure is straightforward:
- Noun + 이라는 것 Regardless of whether the noun ends with a consonant or a vowel, 이라는 것 is attached directly to the noun.
Formation Diagram
Noun + 이라는 것
Examples
| Noun | + 이라는 것 | Translation |
|---|---|---|
| 사랑 (love) | 사랑이라는 것 | The thing called love |
| 행복 (happiness) | 행복이라는 것 | The thing called happiness |
| 우정 (friendship) | 우정이라는 것 | The thing called friendship |
| 책 (book) | 책이라는 것 | The thing called a book |
| 인터넷 (Internet) | 인터넷이라는 것 | The thing called the Internet |
3. Comparative Analysis
Comparison with ~란 것
You may also encounter ~란 것, which is a contraction of ~라는 것 and serves a similar purpose.
- Noun + 란 것 Differences:
- ~이라는 것: More formal and commonly used in written language.
- ~란 것: Less formal, often used in spoken language or casual writing. Example:
- 사랑이란 것은... (Less formal)
- 사랑이라는 것은... (More formal) Both mean "The thing called love is..."
Comparison with ~인 것
~인 것 translates to "the thing that is..." and is used to describe a state or characteristic rather than introducing or defining a concept. Example:
- 사랑인 것 같다. – "It seems to be love."
- 사랑이라는 것은 아름답다. – "The thing called love is beautiful."
4. Examples in Context
Example 1: Defining a Concept
Sentence:
행복이라는 것은 마음속에 있습니다.
Translation:
"The thing called happiness is within your heart."
Example 2: Explaining an Object
Sentence:
컴퓨터라는 것은 복잡한 기계입니다.
Translation:
"The thing called a computer is a complex machine."
Example 3: Introducing a Topic (Formal)
Sentence:
인간관계라는 것은 이해와 신뢰가 중요합니다.
Translation:
"In what we call human relationships, understanding and trust are important."
Example 4: Describing Experiences (Informal)
Sentence:
여행이라는 건 정말 재미있어요!
Translation:
"Traveling, as it's called, is really fun!"
Example 5: Quoting Names or Titles
Sentence:
'기생충'이라는 영화를 보셨어요?
Translation:
"Have you watched the movie called 'Parasite'?"
5. Cultural Notes
Levels of Politeness and Formality
- ~이라는 것 is neutral and appropriate in both formal and informal contexts.
- It is commonly used in written language, academic contexts, and polite conversation.
Cultural Relevance
- Koreans often use ~이라는 것 to provide explanations or definitions, reflecting a culture that values clarity and shared understanding.
- It allows speakers to emphasize important concepts or to introduce new ideas thoughtfully.
Idiomatic Expressions
- 인생이라는 것은 – "The thing called life"
- 시간이라는 것은 – "The thing called time" These expressions are used to philosophically reflect on life and time, common themes in Korean literature and speech.
6. Common Mistakes and Tips
Common Mistake 1: Omitting 이 After Consonants
Incorrect:
책라는 것은 지식의 보고입니다.
Correct:
책이라는 것은 지식의 보고입니다.
Explanation:
After a noun ending with a consonant (책), include 이 to form 책이라는 것.
Common Mistake 2: Using ~이라는 것 After Verbs
Incorrect:
먹다이라는 것은 즐거워요.
Correct:
먹는다는 것은 즐거워요.
Explanation:
~이라는 것 is used after nouns. For verbs, use ~는다는 것 or ~다는 것 to express "the act of ~."
Common Mistake 3: Confusing ~이라는 것 with ~인 것
Tip:
- ~이라는 것 introduces or defines a concept.
- ~인 것 describes a state or characteristic.
Example:
- 사랑이라는 것은 아름답다. – "The thing called love is beautiful."
- 사랑인 것 같다. – "It seems to be love."
Learning Strategies
- Mnemonic Device:
Think of "이라는 것" as "is called" – both start with an "i." - Practice Forming Sentences:
Create sentences defining terms or concepts important to you using ~이라는 것. - Contextual Learning:
Read Korean texts and note how ~이라는 것 is used to introduce and explain ideas.
7. Summary and Review
Key Takeaways
- ~이라는 것 means "the thing called ~" and is used to define or explain nouns.
- Attach 이라는 것 directly to nouns, regardless of their ending consonant or vowel.
- It is appropriate in both formal and informal contexts.
- Avoid using ~이라는 것 after verbs; it is intended for nouns.
Quick Recap Quiz
- Form the phrase using 꿈 (dream): "the thing called a dream."
Answer:
꿈이라는 것 - **Is the following sentence correct? If not, correct it:
식사라는 것은 중요해요. Answer:
Correct as is. ("The thing called a meal is important.") - **Fill in the blank:
친구 ______ 소중해요. (Use ~이라는 것) Answer:
친구라는 것은 소중해요.
("The thing called friendship is precious.")
By mastering ~이라는 것, you'll be able to effectively define and explain concepts in Korean, enhancing your communication skills and deepening your understanding of the language.