Processing keyword: ~(으)시다 [(eu)sida] (Let's)

Korean Grammar Point: ~(으)시다 [(eu)sida] (Let's)

1. Introduction

In Korean, expressing suggestions or proposing actions to do together is an essential part of daily communication. One common way to say "Let's" in Korean is by using the grammar point ~(으)ㅂ시다 [(eu)bshida]. This polite and formal verb ending allows speakers to suggest doing something together in a respectful manner.

2. Core Grammar Explanation

Detailed Explanation

~(으)ㅂ시다 is attached to verb stems to form sentences that mean "Let's [verb]." It is used to make polite suggestions or proposals to a group that includes the speaker. This form is considered polite and is appropriate for most situations, including formal settings.

Meaning

• "Let's [do something]"
• Used to make suggestions or proposals that include the speaker and the listener(s).

Formation

Structure

1. For verb stems ending with a consonant:
   Add -읍시다 to the verb stem.

2. For verb stems ending with a vowel:
   Add -ㅂ시다 to the verb stem.

Formation Diagram

[Verb Stem] + (으)ㅂ시다
- If verb stem ends with a consonant:
  먹다 (to eat) -> 먹 + 읍시다 -> 먹읍시다 (Let's eat)
- If verb stem ends with a vowel:
  가다 (to go) -> 가 + ㅂ시다 -> 갑시다 (Let's go)

Visual Aid: Formation Table

3. Comparative Analysis

Comparison with Informal Suggestion Form "~자"

• ~자 is the informal way to say "Let's" and is used among close friends or those of the same age.

  • Example: 가자 (Let's go), 먹자 (Let's eat)

• ~(으)ㅂ시다 is the polite/formal form and is appropriate in most situations, especially when politeness is required.

Comparison with "~(으)세요"

• ~(으)세요 is used to make polite requests or commands, not suggestions that include the speaker.
  • Example: 앉으세요 (Please sit), 조용히 하세요 (Please be quiet)
• ~(으)ㅂ시다 includes the speaker in the action.

4. Examples in Context

Formal Situations

1. 회의를 시작합시다.
   Let's begin the meeting.
2. 지금 출발합시다.
   Let's depart now.

Casual but Polite Situations

1. 점심을 같이 먹읍시다.
   Let's eat lunch together.
2. 그 영화를 봅시다.
   Let's watch that movie.

Written Context

1. 환경을 보호합시다.
   Let's protect the environment.
2. 건강을 위해 운동합시다.
   Let's exercise for our health.

Spoken Context

1. 내일 만납시다.
   Let's meet tomorrow.
2. 이 문제를 해결합시다.
   Let's solve this problem.

5. Cultural Notes

Cultural Relevance

• Using ~(으)ㅂ시다 shows respect and is a way to politely include others in your plans or suggestions.
• It is commonly used in formal speeches, meetings, and when addressing a group in a respectful manner.

Levels of Politeness and Formality

• Formal Polite: ~(으)ㅂ시다
  Appropriate for most situations, especially when politeness is required.

• Informal Casual: ~자
  Used among close friends or peers.

Idiomatic Expressions

1. 신발을 벗읍시다.
   Let's take off our shoes.
   (Cultural note: In Korea, it's customary to remove shoes before entering a home.)
2. 건배합시다!
   Let's make a toast!

6. Common Mistakes and Tips

Error Analysis

Mistake 1: Using ~(으)세요 Instead of ~(으)ㅂ시다

• Incorrect: 같이 점심을 먹으세요.
  (Please eat lunch together.)
• Correct: 같이 점심을 먹읍시다.
  (Let's eat lunch together.) Tip: Remember that ~(으)세요 is a request or command, not a suggestion that includes the speaker.

Mistake 2: Misapplying the Consonant/Vowel Rule

• Incorrect: 쉬읍시다. (from 쉬다 - to rest)
  (Adding -읍시다 after a vowel-ending verb stem.)
• Correct: 쉽시다.
  (Since 쉬다 ends with a vowel, add -ㅂ시다 directly.)

Learning Strategies

• Mnemonic for Ending Selection:
  • If the verb stem ends with a vowel, think "Vowel + ㅂ시다."
  • If the verb stem ends with a consonant, think "Consonant + 읍시다."
• Practice with Common Verbs:
  • Create flashcards with common verbs and practice forming the ~(으)ㅂ시다 form.

7. Summary and Review

Key Takeaways

• ~(으)ㅂ시다 is used to make polite suggestions meaning "Let's [do something]."
• Attach -읍시다 after consonant-ending verb stems and -ㅂ시다 after vowel-ending verb stems.
• It's a formal and polite form suitable for most situations.
• Don't confuse ~(으)ㅂ시다 with ~자 (informal "Let's") or ~(으)세요 (polite request).

Quick Recap Quiz

1. How do you say "Let's study" using ~(으)ㅂ시다? Answer: 공부합시다.
2. Choose the correct form: 놀다 (to play) a) 놀읍시다
   b) 놉시다 Answer: b) 놉시다
3. Is 갑시다 (Let's go) formal or informal? Answer: Formal
4. Correct the mistake: 노래를 부르세요. (Intended meaning: Let's sing a song.) Answer: 노래를 부릅시다.

By understanding and practicing ~(으)ㅂ시다, you can confidently make polite suggestions and invitations in Korean. Remember to consider the level of formality required in each situation and choose the appropriate form accordingly.