Processing keyword: ~켤 [kkeol] (Every, each)

Korean Grammar Point: ~켤 [kkeol] (Every, each)

Korean Grammar Lesson: "~켤" [kkeol] (Every, Each)

1. Introduction

In this lesson, we'll explore the Korean grammar point "~켤" [kkeol], which is used to express the meaning of "every" or "each" in Korean. Understanding how to use "~켤" will enhance your ability to describe frequency and distributions in various contexts.

2. Core Grammar Explanation

Meaning

"~켤" [kkeol] is a bound noun that attaches to numerals and counters to indicate "every" or "each" unit of something. It emphasizes regularity or distribution across units.

Structure

The structure for using "~켤" is as follows:

Number + Counter + ~켤

Formation Diagram

Here's a visual representation: | Component | Example | Note | |----------------|---------------|------------------------------------------| | Number | 하나 (one) | The numeral indicating quantity | | Counter | 마리 (animal) | The counter appropriate for the noun | | ~켤 | ~켤 | Attached to express "every" or "each" | | Combined | 한 마리씩 | "Each one animal" | Note: The number can often be implied and omitted when contextually clear.

3. Comparative Analysis

"마다" vs. "켤"

• "~마다": Attached to nouns to mean "every" (e.g., 날마다 - every day).
• "~켤": Attached to numerals and counters to mean "each" (e.g., 한 명씩 - each person).

  Grammar Point	Usage	Example
  ~마다	Every [noun/time period]	주마다 (every week)
  ~켤	Each [number + counter]	두 개씩 (two each)

4. Examples in Context

Formal Written

• 학생들에게 연필 한 자루씩을 나눠 주었습니다.
  • I distributed one pencil to each student.

Formal Spoken

• 참가자들은 두 명씩 팀을 이루세요.
  • Participants, please form teams of two each.

Informal Written

• 사탕을 세 개씩 가져가도 돼.
  • You can take three candies each.

Informal Spoken

• 우리 모두 한 조각씩 먹자.
  • Let's all have one piece each.

5. Cultural Notes

Politeness and Social Norms

In Korean culture, sharing and fair distribution are valued. Using "~켤" conveys equality and fairness in giving out items or assigning tasks.

Idiomatic Expressions

• 한 발씩 물러서다
  • To step back one step each (compromise).
• 한 걸음씩 앞으로 나아가다
  • To move forward one step at a time.

6. Common Mistakes and Tips

Common Mistake 1: Misplacing "~켤"

• Incorrect: 한씩 사람 명
• Correct: 한 명씩 사람 Tip: Always place "~켤" after the counter.

Common Mistake 2: Confusing "마다" and "켤"

• Incorrect: 학생마다 연필을 주었습니다. (Gives a different meaning)
• Correct: 학생들에게 연필 한 자루씩을 주었습니다. Tip: Use "마다" with time/nouns and "켤" with numerals and counters.

Mnemonic Device

• "씩 is for Shares": Think of "~켤" as distributing "shares" of something.

7. Summary and Review

Key Takeaways

• "~켤" [kkeol] is used with numerals and counters to mean "every" or "each."
• It emphasizes equal distribution or regularity.
• Place "~켤" after the counter.
• Do not confuse with "~마다," which attaches directly to nouns.

Quick Recap Quiz

1. How do you say "Give two cookies to each child" in Korean?
2. Which is correct: 사과마다 or 사과씩 when meaning "each apple"?
3. Fill in the blank: 사람 _______ 한 개씩 나누어 주세요. Answers:
4. 아이들에게 쿠키 두 개씩 주세요.
5. 사과씩 (since we're using a counter with "each")
6. 당

By mastering "~켤," you enhance your ability to discuss distributions and frequencies in Korean, bringing you one step closer to fluency!