Processing keyword: ~하다가는 [hadaganeun] (If continue doing)

Korean Grammar Point: ~하다가는 [hadaganeun] (If continue doing)

~하다가는 [hadaganeun] (If [subject] continues doing)

1. Introduction

The Korean grammar pattern ~하다가는 is used to warn or caution that if a certain action continues, an undesirable result may occur. It often implies that the speaker believes the continuation of an action will lead to negative consequences.

2. Core Grammar Explanation

Meaning

The pattern ~하다가는 translates to "if (someone) keeps doing..." or "if (someone) continues to do..." It expresses a warning about the potential negative outcome of an ongoing action.

Structure

• Verb stem + -다가는

Formation Diagram

[Verb Stem] + 다가는

Detailed Explanation

1. Verb Stem: Remove the -다 ending from the dictionary form of the verb.

   • 가다 (to go) → 가
   • 먹다 (to eat) → 먹

2. Attach -다가는

   • 가 + 다가는 → 가다가는
   • 먹 + 다가는 → 먹다가는 Note: The pattern is typically used with action verbs.

3. Comparative Analysis

Comparison with Similar Grammar Points

• ~다가는 specifically implies a warning about a future negative result if the action continues.

4. Examples in Context

Example Sentences

1. Formal Written
   • 이렇게 늦게까지 일을 하다가는 건강을 해칠 거예요.
     • If you keep working late like this, you'll harm your health.
2. Informal Spoken
   • 계속 쓰레기를 버리다가는 큰 벌금을 받을 거야.
     • If you keep throwing trash away like that, you'll get a big fine.
3. Polite Spoken
   • 맛있는 음식도 너무 많이 먹다가는 배탈이 날 수 있어요.
     • Even delicious food, if you eat too much, you might get a stomachache.
4. Advice Context
   • 무리해서 운동을 하다가는 오히려 다칠 수 있으니 조심하세요.
     • If you overdo your exercise, you might get hurt instead, so be careful.

5. Cultural Notes

Levels of Politeness and Formality

• The use of ~하다가는 can vary in politeness depending on the context and verb endings.
• In Korean culture, gently warning someone about potential negative outcomes is a common way to show concern.

Idiomatic Expressions

• 시간을 낭비하다가는 후회하게 될 거야.
  • If you keep wasting time, you'll end up regretting it.

6. Common Mistakes and Tips

Error Analysis

• Mistake: Using ~하다가는 with stative verbs (verbs that describe a state rather than an action).
  • Incorrect: 피곤하다가는 건강이 나빠질 거예요.
  • Correct: 계속 피곤한 상태로 지내다가는 건강이 나빠질 거예요.
    • If you continue being tired, your health will deteriorate.

Learning Strategies

• Mnemonic Device: Think of ~하다가는 as "Doing this action (하다), if continues (가는), then..." leading to a negative result.
• Tip: Remember that ~하다가는 is usually used to warn about negative outcomes, so it seldom pairs with positive results.

7. Summary and Review

Key Takeaways

• ~하다가는 is used to warn that if an action continues, a negative result may occur.
• Formed by attaching -다가는 to the verb stem.
• Primarily used with action verbs.
• Conveys caution or concern.

Quick Recap Quiz

1. How do you form ~하다가는 with the verb 공부하다 (to study)?
   • Answer: 공부하다가는
2. Is ~하다가는 typically used with positive or negative outcomes?
   • Answer: Negative outcomes
3. What is the mistake in the following sentence?
   • 친구를 사랑하다가는 문제가 생길 거예요.
   • Answer: ~하다가는 should not be used with stative verbs like 사랑하다. The sentence implies loving a friend will lead to problems, which may not fit the cautionary use of ~하다가는.

Feel free to revisit the examples and notes to reinforce your understanding of ~하다가는. Practice by creating your own sentences using this grammar pattern.