Processing keyword: ~하기에 [hakie] (For, considering)

Korean Grammar Point: ~하기에 [hakie] (For, considering)

1. Introduction

The Korean grammar pattern ~하기에 is used to express a reason or basis for a judgment, action, or decision. It can be translated into English as "for", "considering", or "because of". This pattern allows the speaker to state a condition or situation that influences their thought process or action.

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2. Core Grammar Explanation

Meaning and Usage

~하기에 is attached to the verb stem to indicate that the preceding action or state provides the ground for the subsequent action, decision, or judgment. It often conveys the idea of evaluating or assessing something based on certain conditions.

Formation

Structure:

[Verb Stem] + 기에

How to Form:

1. Take the verb stem:
   • Remove 다 from the dictionary form of the verb.
   • Example: 먹다 (to eat) → 먹.
2. Add 기 to nominalize the verb:
   • 먹 + 기 → 먹기.
3. Attach 에 to indicate the basis:
   • 먹기 + 에 → 먹기에.

Formation Diagram

[Verb Stem] + 기 + 에 → ~하기에

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3. Comparative Analysis

Similar Grammar Points

1. ~해서:
   • Usage: Indicates cause or reason.
   • Example: 피곤해서 일찍 잤어요. (I was tired, so I went to bed early.)
   • Difference: More casual and directly states the cause-effect relationship.
2. ~기 때문에:
   • Usage: Expresses a strong cause-and-effect relationship.
   • Example: 날씨가 추기 때문에 코트를 입었어요. (Because the weather is cold, I wore a coat.)
   • Difference: More formal and emphatic about the cause.
3. ~하느라(고):
   • Usage: Indicates an action is hindered due to another action.
   • Example: 공부하느라 친구를 못 만났어요. (I couldn't meet my friend because I was studying.)
   • Difference: Focuses on the action that prevented another action. Key Distinction: ~하기에 often implies a consideration or evaluation before making a judgment or decision, whereas other forms may simply state a cause.

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4. Examples in Context

Example Sentences

1. Formal Written
   • 이 옷은 입기에 편해요.
     • Translation: These clothes are comfortable to wear.
   • 학생들이 이해하기에 너무 어려운 내용입니다.
     • Translation: The content is too difficult for students to understand.
2. Informal Spoken
   • 날씨가 좋기에 산책했어요.
     • Translation: Since the weather was nice, I took a walk.
   • 영화가 재미있기에 추천해요.
     • Translation: The movie is interesting, so I recommend it.
3. Negative Context
   • 가격이 비싸기에 사지 않았어요.
     • Translation: I didn't buy it because the price is expensive.
   • 시간이 없기에 오래 머물 수 없어요.
     • Translation: I can't stay long because I don't have time.
4. Expressing Judgments
   • 여기는 여행하기에 안전한 곳입니다.
     • Translation: This is a safe place to travel.
   • 그 음악은 듣기에 좋았어요.
     • Translation: That music was good to listen to.

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5. Cultural Notes

Cultural Relevance

• Politeness and Consideration: Using ~하기에 shows a thoughtful evaluation, which is valued in Korean communication, especially when making recommendations or giving opinions.

Levels of Politeness and Formality

• Formal Contexts: Commonly used in formal speech and writing, such as news reports, essays, and polite conversations.
• Avoid Overusing in Casual Speech: In informal settings, Koreans may opt for simpler forms like ~해서.

Idiomatic Expressions

• 살기에 좋다: A common phrase meaning "good to live in".
  • 이 도시는 살기에 좋아요.
    • Translation: This city is good to live in.
• 보기에도 좋다: Means "good to look at" or "pleasing to the eye".
  • 그 그림은 보기에 참 좋네요.
    • Translation: That painting is really nice to look at.

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6. Common Mistakes and Tips

Error Analysis

1. Incorrect Verb Stem Attachment
   • Mistake: 가다기에 (Attaching 기에 directly to the infinitive form)
   • Correction: 가기에
   • Tip: Always remove 다 from the verb before adding 기에.
2. Using with Adjectives Improperly
   • Mistake: 예쁘기에 사진을 찍었어요.
   • Correction: 예쁘기에 → 예뻐서 사진을 찍었어요.
   • Tip: Use ~기에 mainly with action verbs. For adjectives, ~아서/어서 is more appropriate.

Learning Strategies

• Remember the Function: Think of ~하기에 as "considering this action/state" to remind you that it sets up a basis for the next clause.
• Practice with Common Verbs: Use verbs like 먹다, 가다, 보다 to make your own sentences.
• Contrast with Similar Forms: Create sentences using ~해서, ~기 때문에, and ~하기에 to understand the nuances.

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7. Summary and Review

Key Takeaways

• ~하기에 is used to express a reason or basis for a judgment or action.
• It is formed by attaching 기에 to the verb stem: [Verb Stem] + 기에.
• Used primarily in formal contexts and conveys thoughtful consideration.
• Important to distinguish it from similar grammar points like ~해서 or ~기 때문에.

Quick Recap Quiz

1. Form the correct expression:
   • Attach 기에 to 읽다 (to read).
     • Answer: 읽기에
2. Choose the appropriate grammar point:
   • For the sentence "Because it's raining, I took an umbrella," which is better?
     • a) 비가 오해서 우산을 가져왔어요.
     • b) 비가 오기에 우산을 가져왔어요.
     • Answer: b) 비가 오기에 우산을 가져왔어요.
3. True or False:
   • ~하기에 can be used with adjectives without modification.
     • Answer: False (Adjectives often require different grammatical structures)

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By understanding and practicing ~하기에, you enhance your ability to express reasons based on considerations or evaluations, adding depth to your Korean communication skills.

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