Processing keyword: ~지 얼마나 되다 [ji eolmana dweda] (How long has it been)

Korean Grammar Point: ~지 얼마나 되다 [ji eolmana dweda] (How long has it been)

Korean Grammar Point: ~지 얼마나 되다 [ji eolmana dweda] (How long has it been)

1. Introduction

The grammar point ~지 얼마나 되다 is used to ask about the duration of time that has passed since a particular event occurred. It’s a way of inquiring about how long it has been since something last happened, making it quite useful in a variety of contexts.

2. Core Grammar Explanation

Detailed Explanation

• Structure: The structure of this grammar point is as follows:

  [Noun/Action verb] + (이/가) + 얼마나 + 되다
  

  • Noun/Action Verb: This will represent the event or situation you are referring to.
  • 이/가: Subject marker used depending on whether the preceding word ends in a consonant (이) or a vowel (가).
  • 얼마나 (eolmana): This translates to "how long" or "how much."
  • 되다 (dweda): Means "to become" or "to pass" in the context here; it indicates the state of time passing.

Meaning:

The expression literally means "how much time has passed since" and is typically used in a questioning tone.

Formation Diagram:

Noun/Action verb + (이/가) + 얼마나 + 되다

Example Formation:

• 언제 시작했어요? (When did it start?)
• 시작한 지 얼마나 되었어요? (How long has it been since it started?)

3. Comparative Analysis

This grammar point is similar to the expression "얼마나 지났어요?" (eolmana jinasseoyo?) which translates to "How much time has passed?" However, the ~지 얼마나 되다 form emphasizes the duration since the last event, while the other is more of a general inquiry about elapsed time without a specific starting point.

4. Examples in Context

Sentence Examples

1. Formal:
   • 이 회사에 근무한 지 얼마나 되었습니까?
   • (Ihaeseo geunmunhan ji eolmana doeeosseumnikka?)
   • "How long has it been since you started working at this company?"
2. Informal:
   • 이 책 읽은 지 얼마나 됐어?
   • (I chaek ilgeun ji eolmana dwaesseo?)
   • "How long has it been since you read this book?"
3. Written Context:
   • 이 문제를 해결한 지 얼마나 되었는지 알고 싶습니다.
   • (I munje-reul haegyeolhan ji eolmana doeeonnunji algo sipseumnida.)
   • "I would like to know how long it has been since this problem was resolved."
4. Spoken Context:
   • 그 영화 본 지 얼마나 됐지?
   • (Geu yeonghwa bon ji eolmana dwaetji?)
   • "How long has it been since I watched that movie?"

5. Cultural Notes

Cultural Relevance

In Korean culture, it is common to inquire about past events or situations as a way of showing interest and concern. This grammar point can imply a sense of nostalgia or a wish to reconnect with a past experience.

Levels of Politeness

The usage of this expression varies in formality, and it's important to choose the correct form based on the relationship with the person you are speaking to. The formal "되다" form is appropriate for professional settings, whereas the informal one may be used among friends.

Idiomatic Expressions

1. 시간이 어떻게 흘렀는지 모르겠어요.
   • (Shigani eotteoke heulleonneunji moreugesseoyo.)
   • "I don't know how time has passed."
   • This can be related to the feeling expressed by using ~지 얼마나 되다.

6. Common Mistakes and Tips

Error Analysis

• Omitting the Subject Marker: Learners often forget to include 이/가 which can lead to confusion.

Learning Strategies

• Mnemonic Device: Remember the phrase "how long it took" as an anchor for using this structure. Associate the expression's focus on duration with personal experiences.

7. Summary and Review

Key Takeaways

• The ~지 얼마나 되다 structure is used to inquire about the duration since an event occurred.
• Use the appropriate formality based on your audience.

Quick Recap Quiz

1. Translate the following sentence: "How long has it been since you visited Korea?"
2. Fill in the blank: "친구를 만난 지 얼마나 ______?"
3. When should you use ~지 얼마나 되다 in formal situations? Answer Key:
4. 한국에 간 지 얼마나 되었어요?
5. 되었어요.
6. When talking to someone you respect or in a formal setting.