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

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

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

1. Introduction

The grammar point ~하다가는 is used to indicate that if a certain action continues, it will lead to a negative or unintended consequence. This structure is particularly useful in warning or advising someone against a particular course of action.

2. Core Grammar Explanation

Detailed Explanation

Meaning: The structure ~하다가는 implies that if someone continues to do a specific action, something bad or unwanted will happen as a result. Structure:

• Take the verb stem (for 하다 [hada], the stem is 하).
• Add the suffix 다가 (daga), followed by the final verb indicating the consequence or result. Formation Diagram:

  Verb Stem	다가	Result Verb
  Verb + 하다	+ 가	Result Clause

Visual Aids

For example, take the verb "가다" (to go):

1. Verb stem: 가 (ga)
2. Add 다가: 가다가 (gadaga)
3. Full structure: 가다가 넘어질 거예요. (If you continue going, you will fall.)

3. Comparative Analysis

~하다가는 can be compared to:

• ~면: A simple conditional meaning "if."
• ~다가: Indicates an action that is interrupted or changed.

Differences:

• ~하다가는: Focuses on the consequence of continuing an action.
• ~면: General conditional without emphasizing consequences.
• ~다가: Describes actions that change mid-way rather than future consequences.

4. Examples in Context

Sentence Examples:

1. Formal:
   • 계속 늦게 일어나면 시험에 갔어도 늦을 것이다.
     (If you keep getting up late, you will be late for the exam.)
2. Informal:
   • 그렇게 놀다가 숙제를 안 하면 망해!
     (If you keep playing like that, you'll mess up your homework!)
3. Written:
   • 건강을 소홀히 하다가 병이 날 수 있습니다.
     (If you continue to neglect your health, you might get sick.)
4. Spoken:
   • 그렇게 먹다가 아플 거야!
     (If you keep eating like that, you will get sick!)

5. Cultural Notes

Cultural Relevance

In Korean culture, giving advice or warnings is often understated. Using ~하다가는 effectively allows the speaker to express concern or caution in a manner that is culturally acceptable without seeming overly harsh.

Idiomatic Expressions

A common phrase:

• "이렇게 하다가 큰일 나!"
  (If you keep doing this, something big will happen!)

6. Common Mistakes and Tips

Error Analysis

• Incorrect Usage: Mixing up with other conditional forms, e.g., using ~면 instead of ~하다가는 when wanting to express consequences.
• Forget to use with a specific result: Leaving out what will happen as a consequence.

Learning Strategies

• Mnemonic Device: Remember it as “If I keep doing this, I will end up… [insert negative result].” This helps reinforce the cause-and-effect relationship of the structure.

7. Summary and Review

Key Takeaways

• ~하다가는 indicates that if an action continues, an unintended negative result will occur.
• It's formed by combining a verb stem with 다가 and a consequence.
• Different from other conditional forms in that it emphasizes consequences of ongoing actions.

Quick Recap Quiz

1. What does ~하다가는 signify in a sentence?
   • a) A simple condition
   • b) A warning about continuing actions
   • c) A past action
2. Complete the sentence: "이렇게 하다가 _____."
   • a) 괜찮을 거야
   • b) 큰일 나
   • c) 좋아할 거야 (Answers: 1-b, 2-b)