Processing keyword: ~해서는 안 되다 [haeseoneun an dweda] (Must not do)

Korean Grammar Point: ~해서는 안 되다 [haeseoneun an dweda] (Must not do)

~해서는 안 되다 [haeseoneun an dweda] (Must Not Do)

1. Introduction

In this lesson, we'll explore the Korean grammar point ~해서는 안 되다, which is used to express prohibition or to state that an action must not be done. This structure is essential for conveying rules, regulations, and advice in both formal and informal settings.

2. Core Grammar Explanation

Meaning

~해서는 안 되다 translates to:

• "Must not do"
• "Should not do"
• "It is not acceptable to do" It emphasizes that performing a certain action is prohibited or discouraged.

Structure

To form this expression, follow these steps:

1. Identify the Verb Stem Remove -다 from the dictionary form of the verb.

   Dictionary Form (Verb)	Verb Stem
   가다 (to go)	가
   먹다 (to eat)	먹
   하다 (to do)	하

2. Add the Connective Ending ~아/어/여서
   • -아서: For stems ending with ㅏ or ㅗ
   • -어서: For all other vowel endings
   • -여서: For the verb 하다, which becomes 해서

     Verb Stem	Connective Ending	Result
     가	-아서	가서
     먹	-어서	먹어서
     하	-여서	해서

3. Add 는 안 되다 Attach 는 안 되다 to indicate prohibition.

   Result	Final Form
   가서	가서는 안 되다
   먹어서	먹어서는 안 되다
   해서	해서는 안 되다

Formation Diagram

[Verb Stem] + 아/어/여서 + 는 안 되다

3. Comparative Analysis

Comparing with Similar Grammar Points

~으면 안 되다

Both ~해서는 안 되다 and ~으면 안 되다 express prohibition, but there's a subtle difference:

• ~해서는 안 되다: Emphasizes that the action itself must not be done, often highlighting the process.
• ~으면 안 되다: Simply states that the action is not allowed, focusing on the condition. Example

1. 여기에 들어가서는 안 돼요.
   You must not enter here (emphasizing the act of entering).
2. 여기에 들어가면 안 돼요.
   You should not enter here (stating the condition).

4. Examples in Context

Example Sentences

Formal Context

1. 도서관에서 음식을 먹어서는 안 됩니다.
   You must not eat food in the library.
2. 시험 중에는 휴대폰을 사용해서는 안 됩니다.
   You must not use your cell phone during the exam.

Informal Context

3. 밤에 큰 소리로 음악을 들어서는 안 돼.
   You shouldn't listen to loud music at night.
4. 여기에 쓰레기를 버려서는 안 돼요.
   You must not throw trash here.

Polite Conversation

5. 길을 건널 때 휴대폰을 보고 있어서는 안 돼요.
   You shouldn't be looking at your phone while crossing the street.
6. 회의 중에는 자리를 떠나서는 안 됩니다.
   You must not leave your seat during the meeting.

5. Cultural Notes

Cultural Relevance

• Respecting Rules: In Korean culture, adhering to social rules and norms is important. Using ~해서는 안 되다 politely communicates prohibitions and maintains harmony.
• Politeness Levels: The ending can change to match the level of formality.

  Politeness Level	Ending	Example
  Informal	-으면 안 돼	먹으면 안 돼
  Polite	-으면 안 돼요	먹으면 안 돼요
  Formal	-으면 안 됩니다	먹으면 안 됩니다

Idiomatic Expressions

• 거짓말을 해서는 안 됩니다.
  You must not tell lies.
• 약속을 어겨서는 안 돼요.
  You should not break promises.

6. Common Mistakes and Tips

Common Mistakes

1. Omitting '는' in '서는'
   • Incorrect: 먹어서 안 돼요.
   • Correct: 먹어서는 안 돼요.
2. Using the Wrong Connective Ending
   • Mixing up -아서, -어서, -여서
   • Tip: Remember the vowel harmony rules.

Learning Strategies

• Mnemonic Device:
  Think "By doing (서), it must not be done (는 안 되다)" to remember to include -서는 안 되다.
• Practice:
  Create your own sentences using different verbs to become familiar with the structure.

7. Summary and Review

Key Takeaways

• ~해서는 안 되다 is used to express that an action is prohibited.
• Formed by [Verb Stem] + 아/어/여서 + 는 안 되다.
• Emphasizes the process of the action being prohibited.
• Important for conveying rules and regulations politely.

Quick Recap Quiz

1. Fill in the blank: 수업 시간에 늦게 ____ 안 됩니다.
   Answer: 와서는
   Full Sentence: 수업 시간에 늦게 와서는 안 됩니다.
2. True or False: "해서는 안 되다" can be used interchangeably with "하면 안 되다" without any change in meaning.
   Answer: False (There is a subtle emphasis difference.)
3. Translate: "여기에서 사진을 찍어서는 안 돼요."
   Answer: "You must not take pictures here."

Feel free to revisit this lesson to reinforce your understanding of ~해서는 안 되다. Practice by making your own sentences, and soon you'll be using this grammar point naturally!