Processing keyword: ~하려고 [haryeogo] (In order to)

Korean Grammar Point: ~하려고 [haryeogo] (In order to)

1. Introduction

Expressing intention or purpose is essential in any language. In Korean, one common way to convey the purpose of an action is by using the grammar point "하려고" (haryeogo), which translates to "in order to" or "with the intention of." This lesson will guide you through the usage of "하려고," helping you construct sentences that express intention naturally and accurately.

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2. Core Grammar Explanation

Meaning

"~하려고" is used to express the purpose or intention behind an action. It connects two clauses, indicating that the action in the first clause is done in order to achieve the action in the second clause.

Structure

To form "하려고," attach "(으)려고" to the verb stem of the action you intend to do.

Formation Rules

Verb Stem Ending	Attach	Example Verb	Conjugated Form
Ends with a vowel or the consonant ㄹ	려고	가다 (to go)	가려고
Ends with a consonant (other than ㄹ)	으려고	먹다 (to eat)	먹으려고

How to Form

1. Identify the verb stem: Remove "다" from the dictionary form of the verb.
2. Determine the ending:
   • If the verb stem ends with a vowel or ㄹ, add 려고.
   • If it ends with a consonant (other than ㄹ), add 으려고.

Formation Diagram

[Verb stem] + (으)려고

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Detailed Explanation

• Same Subject Requirement: The subject performing both actions must be the same.

  • Correct: 저는 일을 끝내려고 열심히 했어요.
    (I worked hard in order to finish the work.)
  • Incorrect: 저는 친구가 오려고 기다렸어요.
    (I waited in order for my friend to come.)

• Cannot be Used with Imperatives or Proposals: "~하려고" is not used in commands or suggestions.

  • Incorrect: 책을 읽으려고 읽으세요.
    (Please read in order to read the book.)

• Temporal Relationship: The action before "~하려고" happens after the action that follows.

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3. Comparative Analysis

Comparing with Similar Grammar Points

Grammar Point	Meaning	Usage
~(으)려고	In order to	Informal to neutral situations
~기 위해(서)	In order to	More formal, written language
~고자	In order to	Formal speeches or writings
~(으)러	To go/come in order to	With motion verbs like 가다, 오다

Differences

• ~기 위해(서):
  • More formal and can be used when the subjects of the clauses are different.
  • Example: 저는 가족을 위해서 열심히 일해요.
    (I work hard for my family.)
• ~(으)러:
  • Used specifically with motion verbs like 가다 (to go), 오다 (to come).
  • Example: 도서관에 책을 빌리러 가요.
    (I go to the library to borrow a book.)

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4. Examples in Context

Sentence Examples

1. Basic Sentence
   • 한국어를 배우려고 한국에 왔어요.
     I came to Korea in order to learn Korean.
2. Verb Stem Ending with a Consonant
   • 건강해지려고 매일 운동해요.
     I exercise every day in order to become healthy.
3. Verb Stem Ending with a Vowel
   • 영화를 보려고 티켓을 샀어요.
     I bought tickets in order to watch a movie.
4. Informal Speech
   • 너 만나려고 여기 왔어.
     I came here to meet you.
5. Negative Form
   • 늦지 않으려고 일찍 출발했어요.
     I left early in order not to be late.
6. Future Intention
   • 내일은 쉬려고 해요.
     I intend to rest tomorrow.

Context Variations

• Formal Writing
  • 환경을 보호하려고 노력합니다.
    We strive to protect the environment.
• Conversation
  • 뭐 하려고 해?
    What are you planning to do?

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5. Cultural Notes

Cultural Relevance

Understanding "~하려고" can help grasp the nuances of expressing intentions politely, which is crucial in Korean culture where indirectness and politeness are valued.

Politeness Levels

• Adjust the verb endings after "~하려고" to match the appropriate politeness level.
  • Casual: 공부하려고 해.
  • Polite: 공부하려고 해요.
  • Formal: 공부하려고 합니다.

Idiomatic Expressions Using "~하려고"

• 꿈을 이루려고 노력해요.
  I am striving to achieve my dreams.
• 시간을 절약하려고 지하철을 타요.
  I take the subway in order to save time.

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6. Common Mistakes and Tips

Error Analysis

1. Using with Different Subjects
   • Incorrect: 저는 친구가 오려고 기다려요.
     I wait in order for my friend to come.
   • Correct: 친구를 기다리려고 일찍 왔어요.
     I came early in order to wait for my friend.
2. Mixing with Commands/Proposals
   • Incorrect: 살을 빼려고 운동하세요!
     Exercise in order to lose weight!
   • Correct: 살을 빼려면 운동하세요!
     If you want to lose weight, exercise!

Learning Strategies

• Practice with Common Verbs: Make sentences using verbs you frequently use to get comfortable with the structure.

• Remember the Subject Rule: Always check that the subject performing both actions is the same.

• Create Mnemonics: Associate "~하려고" with the phrase "have a goal to" to remember its purpose.

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7. Summary and Review

Key Takeaways

• Usage: Attach "~(으)려고" to the verb stem to express intention or purpose.
• Formation:
  • Verb stem ending with vowel or ㄹ + 려고
  • Verb stem ending with consonant + 으려고
• Subject Consistency: The subject must be the same in both clauses.
• Not Used with Imperatives/Proposals: Do not combine with commands or suggestions.

Quick Recap Quiz

1. Fill in the blank with the correct form of "~하려고": 학교에 일찍 ______________ 준비했어요.
   (I got ready early in order to go to school.) Answer: 가려고
2. True or False: "~하려고" can be used when the subjects of the two clauses are different. Answer: False
3. Identify the Error: 편지를 보내려고 우체국에 가세요!
   (Go to the post office in order to send a letter!) Correction: 편지를 보내러 우체국에 가세요!
   (Use "~(으)러" with motion verbs in commands.)

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By mastering "~하려고," you'll be able to express intentions and purposes clearly, enhancing your ability to communicate more naturally in Korean. Keep practicing by forming your own sentences, and soon this grammar point will become second nature!

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