Processing keyword: ~(으)ㄹ래 [(eu)llae] (I want to)

Korean Grammar Point: ~(으)ㄹ래 [(eu)llae] (I want to)

1. Introduction

The Korean grammar pattern ~(으)ㄹ래 is commonly used in casual conversations to express the speaker's intention or to ask about someone else's intention in an informal and friendly manner. It can mean "I want to..." when talking about oneself or "Do you want to..." when asking others.

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2. Core Grammar Explanation

Meaning

• When used with the first person (저는/나는): Indicates the speaker's intention or desire to do something.
  • "I want to..."
• When used with the second person (너는/당신은): Asks about the listener's intention.
  • "Do you want to..." / "Would you like to..."

Structure

The structure varies slightly depending on whether the verb stem ends with a consonant or a vowel.

Formation Diagram

Verb Stem Ending	Add	Resulting Form
Vowel	ㄹ래	가 + ㄹ래 = 갈래
Consonant	을래	먹 + 을래 = 먹을래

How to Form

1. Identify the verb stem by removing 다 from the dictionary form of the verb.
2. Check the last letter of the verb stem:
   • If it ends in a vowel, add ㄹ래.
   • If it ends in a consonant, add 을래.
3. Attach the appropriate ending to the verb stem.

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3. Comparative Analysis

~(으)려고 하다 vs. ~(으)ㄹ래

• ~(으)려고 하다 means "intend to" or "plan to" and is slightly more formal.
• ~(으)ㄹ래 is more casual and directly expresses desire or intention. Example:
• 집에 가려고 해요. (I intend to go home.)
• 집에 갈래요. (I want to go home.)

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4. Examples in Context

Example Sentences

1. First Person Singular - Informal
   • 나는 영화 볼래.
     • I want to watch a movie.
2. First Person Singular - Formal
   • 저는 커피 마실래요.
     • I want to drink coffee.
3. Second Person Singular - Informal Question
   • 뭐 먹을래?
     • What do you want to eat?
4. Second Person Singular - Formal Question
   • 어디에 갈래요?
     • Where would you like to go?
5. Suggestions Among Friends
   • 우리 같이 운동할래?
     • Do you want to exercise together?
6. Polite Offer (But Casual)
   • 차 한 잔 할래요?
     • Would you like to have a cup of tea?

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5. Cultural Notes

Levels of Politeness and Formality

• ~(으)ㄹ래요 is informal polite, suitable among friends, peers, or in casual settings.
• Avoid using ~(으)ㄹ래요 in formal situations or with superiors; instead, use more formal expressions like ~(으)시겠어요.

Idiomatic Expressions

• 그만할래요.
  • I want to stop now.
• 같이 갈래?
  • Do you want to go together?

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6. Common Mistakes and Tips

Common Mistakes

1. Using ~(으)ㄹ래 in Formal Situations
   • Incorrect: 사장님, 보고서 읽을래요?
     • (Director, do you want to read the report?)
   • Correct: 사장님, 보고서를 읽으시겠어요?
2. Incorrect Attachment to Verb Stems
   • Incorrect: 먹을래요 with a vowel-ending stem without removing the 다.
   • Correct: Remove 다, check ending consonant/vowel, then add the appropriate ending.

Tips

• Mnemonic for Endings:
  • Vowel + ㄹ래, think "Vowel and ㄹ look similar."
  • Consonant + 을래, consonant needs extra support (으) before ㄹ래.

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7. Summary and Review

Key Takeaways

• ~(으)ㄹ래 is used to express desire or to inquire about someone's intention in casual situations.
• Attach ㄹ래 after vowel-ending verb stems and 을래 after consonant-ending verb stems.
• Use it in informal settings with friends, family, or peers.

Quick Recap Quiz

1. How do you say "I want to eat" using ~(으)ㄹ래?
   • Answer: 먹을래요.
2. Convert the verb 가다 (to go) to ask "Do you want to go?" informally.
   • Answer: 갈래?
3. Is it appropriate to use ~(으)ㄹ래 with your boss?
   • Answer: No, it's too informal.

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By mastering the usage of ~(으)ㄹ래, you can express your desires and ask others about theirs in a natural and casual manner, enhancing your everyday Korean conversations.

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