Processing keyword: ~하기로 하다 [hakiro hada] (Decide to do)

Korean Grammar Point: ~하기로 하다 [hakiro hada] (Decide to do)

1. Introduction

In this lesson, we'll explore the grammar point ~하기로 하다, which is used to express the decision to do something in Korean. Mastering this structure will enable you to convey your intentions and plans effectively, enhancing your communication skills in various contexts.

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2. Core Grammar Explanation

Detailed Explanation

~하기로 하다 is a grammatical construction used to indicate that someone has decided or made up their mind to perform a certain action. It combines the nominalized form of a verb with the expression -기로 하다, meaning "to decide to do."

Meaning, Structure, and Formation Diagram

Meaning: To decide to do something. Structure:

• Verb Stem + -기 + 로 하다 Components:

1. Verb Stem: The base form of the verb without -다.
2. -기: Nominalizer that turns the verb into a noun (gerund form).
3. 로: Particle meaning "to" or "for," indicating purpose.
4. 하다: Verb "to do."

Formation Diagram

Component	Function	Example
Verb Stem	Base form of verb	먹다 → 먹
+ -기	Nominalizer	먹기
+ 로 하다	Decide to do	먹기로 하다 (decide to eat)

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3. Comparative Analysis

Let's compare ~하기로 하다 with similar grammar points:

~(으)려고 하다 (To intend to do)

• Usage: Expresses intention or plan to do something.
• Example: 공부하려고 해요. (I intend to study.)

Difference:

• ~하기로 하다 implies a decision has been made.
• ~(으)려고 하다 indicates an intention but not necessarily a firm decision.

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4. Examples in Context

Sentence Examples

1. 내일부터 일찍 일어나기로 했어요.
   • I decided to wake up early from tomorrow.
2. 우리는 주말에 여행을 가기로 했습니다.
   • We decided to go on a trip this weekend.
3. 사장님과 회의하기로 했다.
   • I decided to have a meeting with the boss.
4. 친구와 같이 공부하기로 해요.
   • Let's decide to study together with a friend.
5. 저녁으로 피자를 먹기로 했어.
   • I decided to eat pizza for dinner.

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5. Cultural Notes

Cultural Relevance

• Collective Decision-Making: In Korean culture, decisions are often made collectively. Using ~하기로 하다 can reflect a group decision or consensus.
• Politeness Levels: Showing respect through appropriate verb endings is crucial.

Idiomatic Expressions

• 담배를 끊기로 하다: To decide to quit smoking.
  • 올해는 담배를 끊기로 했어요.
    • I decided to quit smoking this year.
• 약속을 지키기로 하다: To decide to keep a promise.
  • 꼭 약속을 지키기로 했습니다.
    • I decided to definitely keep my promise.

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6. Common Mistakes and Tips

Error Analysis

1. Forgetting the Nominalizer -기:
   • Incorrect: 운동으로 하다
   • Correct: 운동하기로 하다
   • Always include -기 to nominalize the verb.
2. Misusing Particles:
   • Incorrect: 만나가 하다
   • Correct: 만나기로 하다
   • Use the correct particle -기로.

Learning Strategies

• Mnemonic Device: Remember "Verb Stem + 기 → noun form (the act of doing)"; then "기로 하다" means "decide to do the act."
• Practice Conjugation: Apply this structure with different verbs to become familiar.

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7. Summary and Review

Key Takeaways

• ~하기로 하다 is used to express the decision to do an action.
• Structure: Verb Stem + 기로 하다.
• Ensure you use the nominalizer -기 and the particle -로 correctly.
• Adjust the level of politeness by conjugating 하다 appropriately.

Quick Recap Quiz

1. Fill in the blank: 영화(______) 봐요. (I decide to watch a movie.)
   • Answer: 보기로
2. True or False: ~하기로 하다 expresses an intention without a firm decision.
   • Answer: False (It expresses a firm decision.)
3. Correct the mistake: 공부하로 했어요.
   • Answer: 공부하기로 했어요.

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By understanding and practicing ~하기로 하다, you'll be able to effectively communicate decisions and plans in Korean, enhancing both your language skills and cultural comprehension.

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