Processing keyword: ~자 [ja] (Let’s)

Korean Grammar Point: ~자 [ja] (Let’s)

~자 [ja] (Let's)

1. Introduction

In Korean, suggesting an action to do together is a common part of everyday conversation. The grammar ending ~자 is an informal way to say "Let's [do something]". This form is used among friends, family, or peers of the same age. Understanding ~자 will help you make casual suggestions and invitations in Korean.

2. Core Grammar Explanation

Detailed Explanation

The ~자 ending is attached directly to the verb stem to propose doing something together with the listener. It is equivalent to "Let's" in English. This form is informal and should be used in casual situations.

Meaning, Structure, Formation Diagram

Meaning: "Let's [verb]" Structure:

Verb Stem + 자

Formation Diagram:

1. Identify the verb stem (remove 다 from the dictionary form).
2. Attach 자 to the verb stem.

Visual Aid: Formation Table

3. Comparative Analysis

~자 vs. Other Suggestion Forms: | Grammar Point | Politeness Level | Usage | Example | Translation | |----------------------|------------------|---------------------------------------|------------------|--------------------| | ~자 | Informal | Casual suggestions among friends | 같이 먹자. | Let's eat together. | | ~(으)시죠 | Formal Polite | Suggesting politely to elders/superiors | 같이 드시죠. | Let's eat together. | | ~(으)ㄹ까요? | Polite | Asking if the listener wants to do something together | 같이 먹을까요? | Shall we eat together? | | ~읍시다/ㅂ시다 | Formal Polite | Making a suggestion in formal situations | 같이 먹읍시다. | Let's eat together. |

4. Examples in Context

Sentence Examples

1. 내일 만나자.
   • Let's meet tomorrow.
2. 영화 보자.
   • Let's watch a movie.
3. 점심 먹자.
   • Let's have lunch.
4. 공원에서 산책하자.
   • Let's take a walk in the park.
5. 노래하자!
   • Let's sing!

Context Variations

• Informal Conversation with a Friend:
  • 게임하자.
    • Let's play a game.
• Planning with a Sibling:
  • 주말에 여행 가자.
    • Let's go on a trip this weekend.
• Group Project Among Peers:
  • 모두 모여서 회의하자.
    • Let's all gather and have a meeting.

5. Cultural Notes

Cultural Relevance

• Usage with Peers: The ~자 form is appropriate when speaking with friends, classmates, or younger family members.
• Avoiding with Elders: It is considered impolite to use ~자 with someone older or of higher social status. Instead, use more polite forms like ~(으)시죠 or ~(으)ㄹ까요.

Idiomatic Expressions

• 행복하자.
  • Let's be happy.
• 힘내자.
  • Let's cheer up.

6. Common Mistakes and Tips

Error Analysis

1. Using ~자 in Formal Situations:
   • Incorrect: 선생님, 같이 공부하자.
     • (Saying "Let's study together, teacher." in an informal way)
   • Correct: 선생님, 같이 공부하시죠.
     • (Using the honorific ~(으)시죠 form)
2. Attaching ~자 to the Dictionary Form:
   • Incorrect: 가다자
   • Correct: 가자

Learning Strategies

• Remember the Informality: Associate ~자 with casual settings. If you're speaking to someone you use informal language with, ~자 is appropriate.
• Verb Stem Identification: Practice removing ~다 from verbs to get comfortable finding the verb stem.

7. Summary and Review

Key Takeaways

• ~자 is used to make informal suggestions equivalent to "Let's [verb]".
• Attach ~자 directly to the verb stem.
• Suitable for use with friends, peers, or those younger than you.
• Use polite forms when speaking with elders or in formal situations.

Quick Recap Quiz

1. How do you form the informal suggestion "Let's dance" using the verb 춤추다 (to dance)?
   • Answer: 춤추자.
2. Is it appropriate to use ~자 with your boss?
   • Answer: No, use a polite form like ~(으)시죠.
3. Convert the following to an informal suggestion: 공부하다 (to study).
   • Answer: 공부하자.

Practice forming sentences using ~자 to become more comfortable with informal suggestions in Korean!