Processing keyword: ~이미 [imi] (Already)

Korean Grammar Point: ~이미 [imi] (Already)

Korean TOPIK Grammar Point: ~이미 [imi] (Already)

1. Introduction

The Korean word 이미 (imi) is an adverb that translates to "already" in English. It is used to indicate that something has happened prior to the current moment or before a certain point in time.

2. Core Grammar Explanation

Detailed Explanation

• Meaning: The primary use of 이미 is to express that an action has been completed or that a situation has already occurred.
• Structure:
  • Already + [verb/adjective]

Formation Diagram

[Subject] + [Verb/Adjective] + 이미

Visual Aids

3. Comparative Analysis

Similar Grammar Points:

• 벌써 (beolsseo): This also means "already," but it often conveys a sense of surprise or urgency about an event that occurred sooner than expected.
  • Example:
    • 벌써 갔어요? (Did she already leave?)
• 아직 (ajik): This means "not yet" and is often used in contrasting situations.
  • Example:
    • 아직 안 갔어요. (I haven't gone yet.)

Key Differences

• Use 이미 when simply stating that something has been completed.
• Use 벌써 when an unexpected quick action has occurred.
• Use 아직 when something is still pending.

4. Examples in Context

Sentence Examples

1. Formal:
   • 이번 보고서는 이미 제출되었습니다.
     (The report has already been submitted.)
2. Informal:
   • 나 이미 숙제 다 했어!
     (I’ve already finished my homework!)
3. Written Context:
   • 이 제품은 이미 품절되었습니다.
     (This product is already sold out.)
4. Spoken Context:
   • 너 그 영화 이미 봤어?
     (Have you already seen that movie?)

5. Cultural Notes

Cultural Relevance

Using 이미 correctly involves understanding the context and timing of events in Korean culture. It emphasizes the action's completion and is often used in both formal and informal contexts.

Levels of Politeness and Formality

• In formal settings, 이미 may be used in conjunction with polite verbs to respect the listener.
• In informal conversations, it can be used in simpler verb forms, but context matters in maintaining politeness.

Idiomatic Expressions

• There are no widely recognized idiomatic expressions specifically with 이미, but you can find it in common phrases emphasizing completion.

6. Common Mistakes and Tips

Error Analysis

• A common mistake is confusing 이미 with 벌써. Remember:
  • 이미 is straightforward completion.
  • 벌써 conveys surprise or urgency.

Learning Strategies

• To remember 이미, think of how you express that you've completed something "already" in English.
• Practice with various verbs/adjectives to cement its usage in different contexts, focusing on not using 벌써 interchangeably.

7. Summary and Review

Key Takeaways

• 이미 indicates that an action has been completed already.
• It is distinct from 벌써 (early/unexpected) and 아직 (not yet).
• Context and formality influence its use.

Quick Recap Quiz

1. What does 이미 mean in English?
2. How does 이미 differ from 벌써?
3. Create a sentence using 이미.

This breakdown offers a comprehensive approach to understanding and using the grammar point 이미 effectively in Korean.