Processing keyword: ~토록 [torok] (So ~ that, to the extent)
Korean Grammar Point: ~토록 [torok] (So ~ that, to the extent)
1. Introduction
In this lesson, we will explore the Korean grammar point ~토록 [torok], which is used to express the extent or degree of an action or state. By the end of this lesson, you will understand how to use ~토록 to convey meanings such as "so ~ that" or "to the extent that" in various contexts.
2. Core Grammar Explanation
Detailed Explanation
Meaning:
- ~토록 is used to indicate the degree or extent of an action or state.
- It can be translated as "so... that", "to the extent that", or "until". Usage:
- Attached to the stem of a verb or adjective.
- Emphasizes the intensity or extent of an action, condition, or situation. Formation:
- Verb/Adjective stem + ~토록
Structure Diagram
[Verb/Adjective stem] + 토록
Examples of Formation
| Verb/Adjective Stem | + 토록 | Result |
|---|---|---|
| 울다 (to cry) | 울도록 | 울도록 |
| 기다리다 (to wait) | 기다리도록 | 기다리도록 |
| 아름답다 (to be beautiful) | 아름답도록 | 아름답도록 |
3. Comparative Analysis
~토록 vs. ~도록
- Both ~토록 and ~도록 can be used interchangeably in many contexts.
- ~토록 has a slightly more emphatic or literary nuance compared to ~도록.
- ~도록 is more commonly used in spoken Korean.
| Grammar Point | Meaning | Nuance |
|---|---|---|
| ~토록 | So ~ that, to the extent | Emphatic, formal |
| ~도록 | So ~ that, in order to | Neutral, common |
4. Examples in Context
Formal Examples
- 그는 목이 쉬토록** 소리쳤다.** Translation: He shouted so much that his voice became hoarse.
- 밤을 새우토록** 공부했다.** Translation: I studied to the extent of staying up all night.
Informal Examples
- 배가 아프토록** 많이 먹었어.** Translation: I ate so much that my stomach hurts.
- 웃음이 멈추지 않토록** 재미있었어.** Translation: It was so fun that I couldn't stop laughing.
Written Context
- 세상이 깜깜하토록** 비가 내렸다.** Translation: It rained so much that the world became dark.
Spoken Context
- 너를 기다리토록** 여기 있었어.** Translation: I was here waiting for you to the extent of (implying waiting for a long time).
5. Cultural Notes
Cultural Relevance
- Using ~토록 can add a dramatic or emphatic tone to the sentence, which is often found in literary works, speeches, or formal contexts.
- It reflects the speaker's strong feelings about the action or state.
Politeness and Formality
- While ~토록 is grammatically neutral, its usage leans toward formal or written language.
- In everyday conversation, ~도록 may be more commonly used.
Idiomatic Expressions
- 피땀 흘리토록** 노력했다.** Translation: I worked hard to the extent of shedding blood and sweat.
- 죽토록** 사랑하다.** Translation: To love to death (to the extent of dying).
6. Common Mistakes and Tips
Error Analysis
Mistake: Confusing ~토록 with ~도록 without understanding the nuance.
Example Incorrect: 배고프도록 먹었다. Correction: 배가 아프도록 먹었다.
Mistake: Using ~토록 with nouns directly without the appropriate verb. Example Incorrect: 행복토록 있다. Correction: 행복하*도록 지내다.*
Learning Strategies
- Mnemonic Device: Remember that ~토록 intensifies the action "to the extent that" something happens. Think of "to rock" (sounds like "torok") the intensity.
- Tip: Practice by creating sentences that express extreme conditions or actions to become familiar with the usage.
7. Summary and Review
Key Takeaways
- ~토록 is used to express the extent or degree of an action or state.
- It translates to "so ~ that" or "to the extent that."
- Commonly attached to verbs or adjectives to intensify the meaning.
- More emphatic and formal compared to ~도록.
Quick Recap Quiz
- What does ~토록 express in a sentence?
- How does ~토록 differ from ~도록?
- Create a sentence using ~토록 to express "I missed you so much that I couldn't sleep."
Answers:
- It expresses the extent or degree of an action or state, meaning "so ~ that" or "to the extent that."
- ~토록 is more emphatic and formal than ~도록, which is more commonly used in everyday speech.
- 너를 보고 싶토록** 잠을 잘 수 없었어.**
By understanding and practicing ~토록, you can add depth and emphasis to your Korean expressions, especially in formal or written contexts.