Processing keyword: ~해 주다 [hae juda] (Do for someone)
Korean Grammar Point: ~해 주다 [hae juda] (Do for someone)
1. Introduction
The grammar pattern ~해 주다 is a fundamental structure in Korean that expresses doing something for someone else's benefit. It combines an action verb with 주다 (to give), indicating that the action is performed as a favor or service to someone.
2. Core Grammar Explanation
Detailed Explanation
- Meaning: To do something for someone; to perform an action that benefits another person.
- Usage: Attach ~아/어 주다 to the verb stem to indicate that the action is done for someone else.
Structure
Formation Diagram
[Verb Stem] + 아/어 주다
- Verb Stem: The base form of the verb without 다.
- 아/어: Vowel harmony suffix based on the verb stem ending.
- If the last vowel is ㅏ or ㅗ, use 아.
- Otherwise, use 어.
- 주다: The verb "to give".
Examples of Formation
| Verb Infinitive | Verb Stem | + 아/어 주다 | Combined Form |
|---|---|---|---|
| 가다 (to go) | 가 | 가 아 주다 | 가 줘 (casual) |
| 먹다 (to eat) | 먹 | 먹 어 주다 | 먹 어 주다 |
| 도와주다 (to help) | 도와주 | 도와주 어 주다 | 도와 줘 |
3. Comparative Analysis
- ~해 주다 vs. ~해 드리다: Both mean to do something for someone, but ~해 드리다 is more honorific and is used when speaking to someone of higher status.
- ~해 주다 vs. ~해 보다: ~해 보다 means to try doing something, not to do it for someone else.
- ~해 주다 vs. ~해지다: ~해지다 indicates a change of state and is unrelated to doing something for someone.
4. Examples in Context
Formal Speech
- 제가 문을 열어 드릴게요.
- I will open the door for you.
- 숙제를 도와 주시겠어요?
- Could you help me with my homework?
Informal Speech
- 사진 찍어 줄까?
- Shall I take a picture for you?
- 이거 설명해 줘.
- Explain this to me.
Written Context
- 친구를 위해 선물을 만들어 주었다.
- I made a gift for my friend.
- 선생님께서 책을 추천해 주셨다.
- The teacher recommended a book to me.
Spoken Conversation
- 엄마, 이거 사 줘!
- Mom, buy this for me!
- 제가 도와줄게요.
- I'll help you.
5. Cultural Notes
Cultural Relevance
In Korean culture, showing consideration and performing favors are important social behaviors. Using ~해 주다 reflects politeness and willingness to assist others.
Levels of Politeness and Formality
- Casual: -아/어 줘
- Used among close friends or younger people.
- Polite: -아/어 주세요
- Standard polite form used in most situations.
- Honorific: -아/어 드리다
- Used when speaking to someone of higher status.
Idiomatic Expressions
- 힘을 내 주세요!
- Please cheer up!
- 조언해 주세요.
- Please give me advice.
6. Common Mistakes and Tips
Error Analysis
- Forgetting the vowel harmony:
- Incorrect: 먹 아 주다 ❌
- Correct: 먹 어 주다 ✅
- Using 주다 without honorifics in formal situations:
- Be cautious to use 드리다 when necessary.
Learning Strategies
- Mnemonic for Vowel Harmony:
- "아오" bright, others dark: If the last vowel is 아 or 오, use 아 주다. Else, use 어 주다.
- Practice with Common Verbs:
- Make sentences using verbs you frequently use to get comfortable with the pattern.
7. Summary and Review
Key Takeaways
- ~해 주다 is used to express doing something for someone else's benefit.
- Attach 아/어 주다 to the verb stem following vowel harmony rules.
- Adjust the level of politeness based on the listener by using 주다, 주세요, or 드리다.
Quick Recap Quiz
- How do you say "Please teach me Korean" using ~해 주다?
- 한국어를 가르쳐 주세요.
- What is the polite honorific form of 봐 주다?
- 봐 드리다
- Correct the mistake: 저를 도워 주세요.
- Corrected: 저를 도와 주세요.
By mastering ~해 주다, you enhance your ability to express favors and kindness in Korean, aligning with cultural norms of politeness and respect.