Understanding Korean Conditionals
In Korean, conditional sentences are used to express 'if' situations. These sentences talk about things that might happen or could have happened. Let's explore how to use them.
Basic Conditional Structure
In Korean, conditionals often use the word '면' which means 'if'. It is attached to the verb stem.
Examples
- 비가 오면, 집에 있을 거예요.
- 학교에 가면, 친구를 만날 수 있어요.
- 시간이 있으면, 영화 보러 갈까요?
Important Points
- Real conditionals
- Unreal conditionals
- Past conditionals
Real conditionals are used when the situation is likely or possible. Unreal conditionals talk about situations that are imaginary or not likely to happen. Past conditionals describe situations that could have happened but didn't.
These are used for situations that are possible or likely. The structure is simple: Verb stem + 면.
Examples
- 내일 날씨가 좋으면, 소풍을 갈 거예요.
- 돈이 많으면, 여행을 갈 거예요.
These are used for situations that are not real or unlikely. The structure often uses '다면'.
Examples
- 내가 새라면, 하늘을 날 거예요.
- 시간이 많다면, 더 공부할 거예요.
These describe situations that could have happened in the past but didn't. They often use '었으면'.
Examples
- 일찍 잤으면, 피곤하지 않았을 거예요.
- 버스를 탔으면, 늦지 않았을 거예요.
Using Conditionals in Daily Life
Conditionals are very useful in daily conversations. They help you express possibilities, make plans, and talk about dreams.
Examples
- 비가 오면 우산을 가져오세요.
- 배가 고프면, 밥을 먹어요.
Important Points
- Use '면' for real situations.
- Use '다면' for unreal situations.
- Use '었으면' for past unreal situations.