Processing keyword: ~이래 [irae] (Since then, like this)

Korean Grammar Point: ~이래 [irae] (Since then, like this)

1. Introduction

In this lesson, we will explore the Korean grammar point ~이래 [irae], which can mean "since then" or be used to convey reported speech similar to "they say that..." in English. Understanding this grammar point will enhance your ability to comprehend and express nuanced meanings in Korean, both in spoken and written forms.

---

2. Core Grammar Explanation

Meaning and Usage

1. ~이래 as "Since then"

When 이래 follows a time expression, it means "since" a particular point in time.

• Usage: Indicates that something has been ongoing from a specific time until now.
• English Equivalent: "Since", "From that time until now".

2. ~이래 as Reported Speech (Informal)

~이래 is a contraction of ~이라고 해 or ~이라고 하다, used in colloquial speech to indicate hearsay or reported speech.

• Usage: To convey what someone else has said, similar to "they say that..." or "I heard that...".
• English Equivalent: "They say that...", "I heard that...".

---

Formation Diagrams

1. "Since then" Usage

[Time Expression] + 이래

• Example:
  • 그때 이래 (since that time)

2. Reported Speech Usage

[Declarative Sentence] + ~(이)래

• If noun ends with a consonant: ~이라 해 → ~이래
• If noun ends with a vowel: ~라 해 → ~래

---

Visual Aid: Formation Table

Sentence Type	Ending with Consonant	Ending with Vowel
Noun + 이래	친구 이라 해 → 친구 이래	의사 라 해 → 의사 래
Verb/Adjective + 대	간다 고 해 → 간다 대	좋다 고 해 → 좋다 대

Note: While ~이래 is commonly used with nouns, verbs and adjectives use ~대 for reported speech.

---

3. Comparative Analysis

Comparison with ~(이)라고 하다

• ~(이)라고 하다 is the standard form for reported speech.
• ~(이)래 is the contracted, informal version commonly used in spoken Korean.
• Difference: ~(이)래 is less formal, used in casual conversations.

Comparison with ~후로

• Both 이래 and 후로 can mean "since".
• 이래 emphasizes the starting point from a specific time until now.
• 후로 (after that) indicates that something happened after a certain event.

---

4. Examples in Context

1. "Since then" Examples

• 그날 이래 우리는 다시 만나지 못했어요.
  • Since that day, we haven't been able to meet again.
• 졸업 이래로 연락이 끊겼어.
  • Since graduation, we've lost contact.
• 사고 이래 모든 것이 달라졌어.
  • Everything has changed since the accident.

2. Reported Speech Examples (Informal)

• 민수는 내일 이사간대.
  • They say that Minsu is moving tomorrow.
• 저 식당이 맛있 이래.
  • They say that restaurant is delicious.
• 그 사람이 유명한 배우 이래.
  • They say that person is a famous actor.

Formal vs. Informal Usage

• Formal: 그 사람이 유명한 배우라고 합니다.
  • They say that person is a famous actor.
• Informal: 그 사람이 유명한 배우 이래.
  • They say that person is a famous actor.

---

5. Cultural Notes

Levels of Politeness

• ~이래 is informal and used among friends or peers.
• Avoid using ~이래 in formal situations or with those of higher social status.

Idiomatic Expressions

• 이래 봬도
  • Even though I may look like this...
  • Used when someone wants to highlight their abilities or qualities despite appearances.
  • Example: 이래 봬도 요리 잘해요.
    • Even though I may not look it, I'm good at cooking.

---

6. Common Mistakes and Tips

Common Mistakes

1. Using ~이래 in Formal Settings
   • Incorrect: 회장님이 오신 이래요.
   • Correct: 회장님이 오신다고 합니다.
   • Avoid using ~이래 with superiors or in formal contexts.
2. Confusing ~이래 with ~이래요 (Present Tense of 이렇다)
   • 이래요 can also be the polite present tense of 이렇다 (to be like this).
   • Pay attention to context to avoid confusion.

Learning Strategies

• Mnemonic for Reported Speech:
  • Think of ~이래 as someone "relay"-ing information to you.
• Practice by Reporting News:
  • Read Korean news headlines and practice conveying them using ~이래.

---

7. Summary and Review

Key Takeaways

• ~이래 has two primary uses: indicating time ("since then") and informal reported speech ("they say that...").
• It is an informal expression; be cautious with its usage in formal contexts.
• Understanding the context is crucial, as similar endings can have different meanings.

Quick Recap Quiz

1. How do you express "They say that she is a teacher" using ~이래?
2. Which form is more appropriate in formal writing: ~이래 or ~(이)라고 합니다?
3. Translate to Korean: "Since last year, I've been studying Korean."

Answers:

1. 그녀는 선생님 이래.
2. ~(이)라고 합니다
3. 작년 이래로 한국어를 공부하고 있어요.

---

By mastering ~이래, you can add a natural and conversational tone to your Korean and understand native speakers more effectively.

---

© Hanabira.org