Processing keyword: ~(으)려는 참이다 [(eu)ryeoneun chamida] (I really want to)

Korean Grammar Point: ~(으)려는 참이다 [(eu)ryeoneun chamida] (I really want to)

Grammar Point: ~(으)려는 참이다 [(eu)ryeoneun chamida] - "I Really Want To"

Introduction

The grammar structure ~(으)려는 참이다 is used to express that someone is in the state of wanting to do something. It conveys a sense of intention or ongoing desire to perform an action.

Core Grammar Explanation

Meaning

• ~(으)려는: This part indicates intention or plan, derived from the verb ‘-려다’ or ‘-고자 하다’ which means "to intend to" or "to want to".
• 참이다: This means "to be right now" or "to be in the act of", emphasizing that the feeling or intention is current and genuine.

Structure

The structure can be broken down as follows:

1. Base Verb + (으)려: Add -려 (for verbs ending in a vowel) or -으려 (for verbs ending in a consonant) to indicate intention.
2. 는 참이다: This part confirms that the intention is genuine or real.

Formation Diagram

  Base Verb + (으)려 + 는 참이다

Visual Aids

Comparative Analysis

• Similar Structures:
  • ~고 싶다 (I want to): States a desire but does not emphasize the current state as strongly.
  • ~(으)려고 하다: Indicates intention for the future but does not convey the immediacy of desire.

Differences:

• ~고 싶다: General desire, not necessarily intended to be acted upon soon.
• ~(으)려고 하다: Future intention.
• ~(으)려는 참이다: Immediate and ongoing desire to do something.

Examples in Context

Sentence Examples

1. Formal Written:

   • 여행을 가려는 참입니다.
   • (I really want to go on a trip.)

2. Informal Spoken:

   • 지금 공부하려는 참인데, 너무 피곤해.
   • (I really want to study right now, but I’m so tired.)

3. Contextual Use:

   • 지금 요리하려는 참이에요.
   • (I really want to cook right now.)

4. With Contextual Nuance:

   • 친구에게 전화하려는 참이었어요, 그랬더니 연락이 왔어요.
   • (I was really wanting to call my friend, then I got a call from her.)

Cultural Notes

• Cultural Relevance: The use of this grammar structure aligns with the Korean tendency to express intentions clearly, showing respect for others by stating one's desires in a direct manner.
• Levels of Politeness: This structure can be modified for different levels of politeness, much like other Korean grammar points. Using 존댓말 (polite form) in formal contexts is common, while 반말 (informal form) is acceptable among close friends or peers.

Idiomatic Expressions

• "보고 싶어지는 참이야"
  • (I really want to see you.)

Common Mistakes and Tips

Error Analysis

1. Confusing with ~고 싶다: Students may confuse these two structures, forgetting that ~(으)려는 참이다 indicates a sense of current action.
2. Incorrect Conjugations: Remember to match verb endings properly based on vowel or consonant endings.

Learning Strategies

• Mnemonic Device: Think of “(으)려는 참이다” as “Currently wanting to do something” to remember its function clearly.

Summary and Review

Key Takeaways

• Use ~(으)려는 참이다 to express a genuine desire to perform an action currently.
• Distinguish it from other similar expressions that convey intention or desire.
• Practice with various verbs for better grasp and usage.

Quick Recap Quiz

1. How do you conjugate a verb ending in a consonant with ~(으)려는 참이다?
2. What does ~(으)려는 참이다 emphasize compared to ~고 싶다?
3. Provide an example sentence using ~(으)려는 참이다.