Processing keyword: ~할지언정 [haljieonjeong] (Regardless of whether)

Korean Grammar Point: ~할지언정 [haljieonjeong] (Regardless of whether)

Detailed Grammar Explanation: ~할지언정 [haljieonjeong]

Introduction

The Korean grammar point ~할지언정 is used to express a condition or situation where something is true regardless of another circumstance. It conveys a sense of concession or contrast, similar to the English phrase "regardless of whether".

Core Grammar Explanation

Detailed Explanation

• Structure:
  The structure of ~할지언정 is as follows:

  Verb stem + 할지언정
  

• Meaning:
  This grammar point indicates that despite being in one condition or situation, another outcome or condition is still valid or acceptable. It emphasizes that the first part is not strong enough to change the second part's truth.
• Formation Diagram:
  Here's a simple representation of its structure:

  [Condition or Situation] + (할지언정) + [Result or Outcome]
  

Visual Aids

Comparative Analysis

• Similar Grammar Points:
  • ~아도/어도: This structure also indicates that something can be true or done despite another condition. However, it is generally used for contrasting actions rather than for emphasizing outcomes.
  • ~지만: Used to contrast two clauses, but does not imply the same level of emphasis as ~할지언정.

Differences:

• ~할지언정 is stronger in emphasizing the persistence of a situation regardless of contrasting conditions, whereas ~아도/어도 and ~지만 offer more neutral contrasts.

Examples in Context

Sentence Examples

1. Formal:
   • 나쁜 결과일지언정, 최선을 다해야 한다.
   • (Regardless of whether the result is bad, we must do our best.)
2. Informal:
   • 힘들지언정, 포기하지 마.
   • (Regardless of how hard it is, don’t give up.)
3. Written:
   • 그 사람이 협조하지 않더라도, 우리는 계속 진행할지언정.
   • (Even if that person doesn’t cooperate, we will proceed regardless.)
4. Spoken:
   • 돈이 없을지언정, 행복한 게 중요해.
   • (Regardless of whether we have money, being happy is important.)

Cultural Notes

Cultural Relevance

In Korean culture, the importance of resilience and persistence is often emphasized. Using ~할지언정 reflects a strong attitude towards not backing down from challenges, which is a valued trait. The expression also shows humility and acceptance of difficult situations without rendering oneself helpless.

Idiomatic Expressions

• 상관하지 말지언정 (regardless of concern) is often used in everyday conversations to preach confidence despite worries.

Common Mistakes and Tips

Error Analysis

• Common Mistake: Using ~할지언정 in situations where the consequences are not contrasting strongly.
  • Correction: Ensure that you are emphasizing a strong contrast or concession.

Learning Strategies

• Mnemonic Device: Remember 할지언정 as "regardless of the choice". The "choice" makes you think of different outcomes or situations that follow.

Summary and Review

Key Takeaways

• ~할지언정 expresses a strong contrast, emphasizing that an outcome remains true regardless of conditions.
• It is important when showing resilience and persistence in various situations.

Quick Recap Quiz

1. What does ~할지언정 translate to in English?
2. How is the structure formed? (Give an example with a verb)
3. What is the difference between ~할지언정 and ~지만? Answers:
4. Regardless of whether
5. [Verb stem] + 할지언정 (e.g., 하다 → 할지언정)
6. ~할지언정 emphasizes persistence while ~지만 provides a neutral contrast.