Let's study the Korean grammar form "-아/어도" today. This structure is used to express "even if" or "even though" in Korean. It's useful for showing that an action or situation happens regardless of certain conditions or circumstances. Here’s a detailed explanation of how it works, with examples.
"-아/어도" Connector
Definition:
"-아/어도" is a connective ending that means "even if" or "even though." It is attached to the stem of a verb or adjective to indicate that the outcome or situation in the second clause remains true or will happen regardless of the condition or situation described in the first clause.
Usage:
"-아/어도" is typically used when the speaker wants to show that something will or should happen regardless of another action, condition, or situation.
This grammar can convey a sense of determination or inevitability, as in "even if" or "even though" in English.
Formation:
For verbs or adjectives whose last vowel is ㅏ or ㅗ, use -아도.
e.g., 가다 (to go) → 가도 (even if [you] go)
For other vowels, use -어도.
e.g., 먹다 (to eat) → 먹어도 (even if [you] eat)
For the 하다 verbs, use -해도.
e.g., 공부하다 (to study) → 공부해도 (even if [you] study)
Examples:
비가 와도 갈 거예요.
(Even if it rains, I will go.)돈이 없어도 행복할 수 있어요.
(Even if I have no money, I can be happy.)피곤해도 운동을 해요.
(Even though I am tired, I exercise.)늦어도 기다릴게요.
(Even if you’re late, I’ll wait.)시험이 어려워도 포기하지 않아요.
(Even if the test is difficult, I don’t give up.)
Similar Grammar Structures:
"-더라도": Also means "even if," but it emphasizes a stronger hypothetical or uncertain condition. For example:
아무리 바쁘더라도 운동은 해야 해요. (No matter how busy you are, you should exercise.)
"-는데도": This form is often used to indicate that a situation happens despite an action or fact.
열심히 공부했는데도 시험에 떨어졌어요. (I studied hard, but I still failed the test.)
Considerations for Use:
"-아/어도" is a versatile structure for expressing conditions that won’t change a certain outcome or intention.
It can be used in both formal and informal speech, but it’s particularly useful for expressing determination, as in making plans or promises despite potential obstacles.