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.

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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:

1. 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

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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

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4. Examples in Context

Formal Examples

1. 그는 목이 쉬토록** 소리쳤다.** Translation: He shouted so much that his voice became hoarse.
2. 밤을 새우토록** 공부했다.** Translation: I studied to the extent of staying up all night.

Informal Examples

1. 배가 아프토록** 많이 먹었어.** Translation: I ate so much that my stomach hurts.
2. 웃음이 멈추지 않토록** 재미있었어.** Translation: It was so fun that I couldn't stop laughing.

Written Context

1. 세상이 깜깜하토록** 비가 내렸다.** Translation: It rained so much that the world became dark.

Spoken Context

1. 너를 기다리토록** 여기 있었어.** Translation: I was here waiting for you to the extent of (implying waiting for a long time).

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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

1. 피땀 흘리토록** 노력했다.** Translation: I worked hard to the extent of shedding blood and sweat.
2. 죽토록** 사랑하다.** Translation: To love to death (to the extent of dying).

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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.

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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

1. What does ~토록 express in a sentence?
2. How does ~토록 differ from ~도록?
3. Create a sentence using ~토록 to express "I missed you so much that I couldn't sleep."

Answers:

1. It expresses the extent or degree of an action or state, meaning "so ~ that" or "to the extent that."
2. ~토록 is more emphatic and formal than ~도록, which is more commonly used in everyday speech.
3. 너를 보고 싶토록** 잠을 잘 수 없었어.**

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By understanding and practicing ~토록, you can add depth and emphasis to your Korean expressions, especially in formal or written contexts.

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