Processing keyword: ~이래 [irae] (Since)

Korean Grammar Point: ~이래 [irae] (Since)

Korean Grammar Point: ~이래 (irae) - Since

1. Introduction

The grammar point ~이래 (irae) is used to indicate a point in time from which something has been occurring, translating to "since" in English. It helps to express the duration of an action or state from a specific time in the past until now.

2. Core Grammar Explanation

Detailed Explanation

• Meaning: The phrase ~이래 indicates that an event or situation has started at a certain point in time and continues into the present.

• Structure: The structure for using ~이래 can be illustrated as follows: Noun + (이)래

  • Here, Noun can be a time-related noun such as a year, month, day, or any other time expression.
  • The suffix (이)래 is added to express “since” referring back to that specific time.

Formation Diagram

Noun (e.g., 2010, 1월, 월요일) + 이래 (irae)

3. Comparative Analysis

~이래 (irae) is often compared with other time expressions:

• ~부터 (buteo): This means "from" and indicates the starting point but does not imply a continued action.

  • Example: "2010년부터 일했어요." (I have been working since 2010. - implies ongoing work).

• ~전 (jeon): Means "before" and does not indicate an ongoing action.

  • Example: "10년 전" (10 years ago) does not imply any ongoing action. The main nuance with ~이래 is that it emphasizes the ongoing nature of an action or state starting from the specified time.

4. Examples in Context

Sentence Examples

1. Formal:

   • "저는 2015년부터 이 회사에서 일하고 있습니다."
     • (I have been working at this company since 2015.)

2. Informal:

   • "너는 중학교 이래로 내 친구야."
     • (You have been my friend since middle school.)

3. Written:

   • "이 연구는 2010년 이래로 진행되고 있다."
     • (This research has been ongoing since 2010.)

4. Spoken:

   • "우리 집에 온 이후로 이래로 한 번도 안 왔어."
     • (You haven't come to my house since then.)

5. Cultural Notes

Cultural Relevance

• Using ~이래 can indicate a sense of continuity and connection. In Korean culture, relationships and connections are emphasized, making this expression relevant when discussing friendships, work, or any longstanding situation.
• Levels of politeness should be considered. The example sentences show differing politeness levels which may vary depending on the relationship between speakers.

Idiomatic Expressions

• "시작한 이래" (Since I started) can be an expression used to discuss skills or experiences gained over time.

6. Common Mistakes and Tips

Error Analysis

• Mistake: Using the wrong verb tense. The verb must be in the present continuous or another appropriate tense to show ongoing action.
• Correction: Ensure the context aligns with the present status or state.

Learning Strategies

• Mnemonic Device: Remember "이래" relates to "years in array". Both suggest continuity and connection.
• Use visual timelines to mark specific events with "이래" to reinforce the duration concept.

7. Summary and Review

Key Takeaways

• The suffix ~이래 (irae) means "since" and indicates that something has been happening continuously from a particular point in time.
• It emphasizes ongoing actions or situations.

Quick Recap Quiz

1. How do you form the phrase using ~이래?
2. What does ~이래 signify in terms of time?
3. Provide an example sentence using ~이래 in context. Answers:
4. Noun + (이)래
5. It signifies ongoing action from a specific past time until now.
6. (Any relevant example from section 4.)