Processing keyword: ~해서는 안 되다 [haeseoneun an dwae] (Must not, shouldn't)

Korean Grammar Point: ~해서는 안 되다 [haeseoneun an dwae] (Must not, shouldn't)

Korean Grammar Point: ~해서는 안 되다 [haeseoneun an dwae]

Introduction

The expression ~해서는 안 되다 is used to indicate that something must not be done or that it is prohibited. This construction is essential for conveying rules, guidelines, or moral attitudes in Korean conversation and writing.

Core Grammar Explanation

Meaning: "Must not" or "shouldn't". Structure:

• Base verb (a verb stem) + 해서는 안 되다

Formation Diagram:

Verb stem + 해서는 안 되다

Breakdown:

1. Verb Stem: Take the dictionary form of a verb and remove the "다" to get the stem.
2. 해서: This is the connective form derived from 하다 (to do).
3. 는: This particle connects the verb to the phrase that follows.
4. 안 되다: This means "to not be allowed" or "to not be permissible".

Visual Aids

Comparative Analysis

Similar Expressions:

• ~지 않아도 된다 [ji anh-ado doenda]: "It is okay not to do..."
• ~면 안 되다 [myeon an dwae]: "If (you do) it, (that's) not allowed..."

Differences:

• ~해서는 안 되다 focuses specifically on prohibiting an action, while ~지 않아도 된다 implies that it is acceptable to refrain from an action.
• ~면 안 되다 is typically used for more conditional statements; it connects an action to a negative consequence if it occurs.

Examples in Context

Sentence Examples:

1. Formal:

   • 공부하지 않아서 중간고사를 못 봤어요. 그래서 더 열심히 공부해서는 안 돼요.
     "I didn't study, so I couldn't take the midterm. Therefore, you must not stop studying harder."

2. Informal:

   • 그걸 먹으면 안 돼! 건강에 안 좋아.
     "You mustn't eat that! It's bad for your health."

3. Written:

   • 이 기계는 사용 전에 반드시 안전 점검을 해야 하며, 안전 점검을 하지 않으면 안 됩니다.
     "This machine must pass a safety check before use, and it must not be used without one."

4. Spoken:

   • 약속을 잊어서는 안 돼! 친구가 실망해.
     "You must not forget the promise! Your friend will be disappointed."

Cultural Notes

Cultural Relevance:

In Korean culture, adhering to rules and respecting boundaries are crucial. This grammar point emphasizes the importance of responsibility and the necessity of following societal norms.

Levels of Politeness:

• This expression can be used in various levels of formality. However, to sound more polite, it can be beneficial to use it in contexts that require a gentle approach, especially in a workplace or formal setting.

Idiomatic Expressions:

• "안 하기로 했다": "I decided not to do (it)." – a related concept in decision-making about prohibitions.

Common Mistakes and Tips

Error Analysis:

1. Incorrect usage of the verb stem can lead to gramatically wrong sentences.

   • Example Mistake: "가서(가다)서는 안 되다" (should be "가서는 안 되다").

2. Losing the helper verb "해서" may confuse the meaning.

   • Example Mistake: Omitting "해서" results in “가면 안 되다”, implying conditionality.

Learning Strategies:

• Remember the structure: Think of "해서" as "for doing" that indicates a connection to what's prohibited.
• Use mnemonics like "must stop" when remembering "안 되다".

Summary and Review

Key Takeaways:

• ~해서는 안 되다 means "must not" or "shouldn't".
• It highlights rules and prohibitions, typical in formal and informal contexts.
• Can be adapted according to the politeness level of the conversation.

Quick Recap Quiz:

1. What does ~해서는 안 되다 mean in English?
2. How do you form a sentence using this grammar point?
3. Give an example of a situation where you would use ~해서는 안 되다. By reinforcing the understanding of this grammar point, you will become adept at expressing prohibitions and rules in Korean!