Processing keyword: ~해서야 [haeseoya] (In order to)

Korean Grammar Point: ~해서야 [haeseoya] (In order to)

1. Introduction

The Korean grammar pattern ~해서야 is used to emphasize that only when a particular action is done or condition is met, the following result or situation can occur. It conveys a sense of necessity or indispensability of the preceding action for the realization of the following one.

---

2. Core Grammar Explanation

Meaning

• ~해서야 translates to "only when..., only after..., or in order to...".
• It emphasizes that the outcome in the main clause can only happen if the action in the preceding clause is completed.

Structure

The structure combines a verb or adjective stem with ~해서야, connecting it to the main clause.

Formation Diagram

[Verb/Adjective Stem] + 해서야 + [Resulting Clause]

Breakdown

1. [Verb/Adjective Stem]: The base form of a verb or adjective.
2. 해서야: Connective ending implying necessity.
3. [Resulting Clause]: The main clause that depends on the preceding action.

---

3. Comparative Analysis

Similar Grammar Points

Grammar Pattern	Meaning	Difference
~고 나서야	Only after doing...	Similar emphasis on completion before result occurs.
~지 않고서는	Unless.../Without doing...	Expresses a negative condition.
~어야만	Only if.../Must...	Stronger necessity or obligation.

• ~해서야 vs. ~고 나서야: Both express that only after the preceding action, the main clause can occur. However, ~해서야 can carry a stronger emphasis on the necessity.

---

4. Examples in Context

Example 1 (Informal)

Sentence: 문제를 직접 해결해서야 이해할 수 있어요. Translation: "I can understand it only when I solve the problem myself."

Example 2 (Formal)

Sentence: 그 사실을 확인해서야 보고할 수 있습니다. Translation: "I can report only after verifying that fact."

Example 3 (Spoken)

Sentence: 네가 도와줘서야 이 일을 끝낼 수 있을 것 같아. Translation: "I think I can finish this work only if you help me."

Example 4 (Written)

Sentence: 자료를 모두 조사해서야 결론을 내릴 수 있었다. Translation: "Only after researching all the materials could a conclusion be drawn."

---

5. Cultural Notes

Levels of Politeness and Formality

• ~해서야 itself is neutral but can be used in both formal and informal contexts depending on the verb endings and vocabulary.

Idiomatic Expressions

• 이제야 집에 와서야 마음이 놓인다.
  • "Only now that I'm home do I feel at ease."

---

6. Common Mistakes and Tips

Error Analysis

• Mistake: Using ~해서야 without considering the necessity of the preceding action.
  • Incorrect: 그는 밥을 먹어서야 잠을 잔다. (He eats rice in order to sleep.)
  • Corrected: 그는 배가 불러서야 잠을 잘 수 있다. (Only when he is full can he sleep.)

Learning Strategies

• Mnemonic Tip: Think of ~해서야 as "Having done..., only then...".
• Practice: Create sentences where the result is impossible without the preceding action.

---

7. Summary and Review

Key Takeaways

• ~해서야 emphasizes that only when the first action is completed, the second can occur.
• It is used to express necessity and indispensability.
• Pay attention to the context to ensure natural usage.

Quick Recap Quiz

1. What does ~해서야 express in a sentence?
2. How do you form a sentence using ~해서야?
3. Create a sentence using ~해서야.

---

Answers:

1. It expresses that only when a certain action is done, the following result can occur.
2. Attach ~해서야 to the verb/adjective stem of the necessary action, followed by the resulting clause.
3. (Example Answer) 그는 열심히 연습해서야 경기에 나갈 수 있었다. ("Only after practicing hard could he participate in the game.")

---

© Hanabira.org