B2 Advanced Grammar 19 min read Easy

Depending On... (-에 따라)

Use -에 따라 to show how actions or situations vary based on a specific noun or standard.

Grammar Rule in 30 Seconds

Use -에 따라 to express that one action or state changes based on another factor.

  • Attach directly to nouns: 날씨에 따라 (depending on the weather).
  • Use with -서 for emphasis: 상황에 따라서 (depending on the situation).
  • Connects two clauses where the second is contingent on the first.
Noun + 에 따라 + Result

Overview

At the B2 level of Korean proficiency, you encounter grammar patterns that allow for more nuanced and sophisticated expressions of relationships between phenomena. The pattern -에 따라 (romanized: -e ttara) is one such crucial construction, signifying "depending on," "according to," or "in accordance with." It establishes a direct relationship where one element's nature, state, or outcome is contingent upon another. This pattern is fundamental for expressing variability, conditionality, and proportionality in a formal yet flexible manner, making it indispensable in professional, academic, and everyday complex discourse.

Linguistically, -에 따라 derives from the verb 따르다 (ttareuda), meaning "to follow," "to obey," or "to comply with." When 따르다 is used with the locative particle -에 (-e) and the connective ending -아/어서 (-a/eoseo), it forms -에 따라서, which then often contracts to -에 따라. This etymology reveals its core function: the subsequent action or state follows the condition or standard set by the preceding noun. It highlights that the subsequent event is not fixed but rather adjusts itself in response to the preceding factor.

Mastery of -에 따라 enables you to convey that outcomes are dynamic, reflecting the inherent complexities of real-world situations rather than simple, linear cause-and-effect. It allows for a more precise and sophisticated articulation of how factors interact and influence one another, moving beyond simple causation to depict a spectrum of possible outcomes.

How This Grammar Works

The fundamental principle behind -에 따라 is the articulation of contingency or variability. It functions as a grammatical pivot, indicating that a certain result, characteristic, or action changes in correspondence to a preceding condition or standard. Unlike simple causal connectives that state a fixed reason, -에 따라 specifically implies that the nature of the consequence shifts or differs based on the specific manifestation of the preceding element.
Think of it as a function in mathematics: Y varies X.
The element preceding -에 따라 serves as the variable factor or criterion. This factor dictates or influences the state or action described in the subsequent clause. For example, if you say 날씨에 따라 계획이 바뀝니다 (nalssie ttara gyehoegi bakkwimnida, "Plans change depending on the weather"), the weather (날씨) is the variable factor.
The plans (계획) are not universally fixed but are dynamically adjusted according to the specific weather conditions. This emphasizes a direct, often proportional, relationship where the change in the former necessitates a corresponding change in the latter. It is a cornerstone for describing flexible systems, conditional guidelines, and diverse outcomes in Korean.
Consider another example: 상황에 따라 대처 방식이 달라야 합니다 (sanghwange ttara daecheo bangsig-i dallaya hamnida, "The coping method must differ depending on the situation"). Here, 상황 (sanghwang, situation) is the variable. The appropriate coping method is not singular but must adapt to the nuances of each particular situation.
This pattern is particularly useful when discussing policy, strategy, or any scenario where a one-size-fits-all approach is insufficient. It is less about a single cause-and-effect and more about a spectrum of effects determined by a spectrum of causes. It effectively communicates that solutions, responses, or characteristics are not absolute but are instead modulated by the contextual factors.
This depth of expression is critical for B2-level communication, allowing you to articulate complex dependencies clearly.

Formation Pattern

1
The formation of -에 따라 is straightforward but requires careful attention to the preceding grammatical element. Primarily, it attaches to nouns. However, verbs and adjectives can also precede this pattern after undergoing nominalization.
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Noun + -에 따라 / -에 따라서
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This is the most common and direct form. You simply attach -에 따라 or -에 따라서 directly to a noun.
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날씨에 따라 (nalssie ttara) - depending on the weather
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개인의 능력에 따라 (gaeinui neungnyeoge ttara) - depending on individual ability
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기준에 따라 (gijune ttara) - according to the standard
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The inclusion of (seo) in -에 따라서 adds a slight nuance of formality or emphasis, often implying "following that" or "as a result of that." While often interchangeable in meaning, -에 따라서 might be preferred in more formal written contexts or when you want to subtly underscore the sequential or consequential nature of the dependence. However, in most contemporary usage, -에 따라 is perfectly acceptable in both formal and informal registers, especially in spoken Korean. It's important to recognize that both forms convey the same core meaning of contingency, with often providing a slightly smoother transition in written prose.
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Verb/Adjective Stem + -(으)ㅁ + -에 따라 / -에 따라서
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When you need to express dependence on an action or a state (described by a verb or adjective), the verb or adjective must first be converted into a noun form. This is achieved by attaching the nominalizing ending -(으)ㅁ to the verb or adjective stem.
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For verb/adjective stems ending in a vowel or batchim, use -ㅁ.
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For verb/adjective stems ending in any other consonant batchim, use -음.
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| Stem Ending | Nominalizer | Example Verb/Adj | Nominalized Form | Meaning |
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| :----------- | :---------- | :------------------- | :--------------- | :-------------- |
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| Vowel | -ㅁ | 가다 (gada, to go) | (gam) | going |
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| Vowel | -ㅁ | 되다 (doeda, to become) | (doem) | becoming |
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| batchim | -ㅁ | 만들다 (mandeulda, to make) | 만듦 (mandeum) | making |
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| batchim | -ㅁ | 길다 (gilda, to be long) | (gilm) | being long |
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| Consonant | -음 | 먹다 (meokda, to eat) | 먹음 (meogeum) | eating |
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| Consonant | -음 | 좋다 (jota, to be good) | 좋음 (joeum) | being good |
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| Consonant | -음 | 읽다 (ikda, to read) | 읽음 (ilgeum) | reading |
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Once nominalized, you attach -에 따라 or -에 따라서 to this noun form:
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발달하다 (balldalhada, to develop) -> 발달함 (balldalham) -> 발달함에 따라 (balldalham-e ttara) - as it develops / according to the development
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성장하다 (seongjanghada, to grow) -> 성장함 (seongjangham) -> 성장함에 따라 (seongjangham-e ttara) - as it grows / according to the growth
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어렵다 (eoryeopda, to be difficult) -> 어려움 (eoryeoum) -> 어려움에 따라 (eoryeoume ttara) - as it is difficult / according to the difficulty (while grammatically sound, this is generally less common for adjectives, where noun forms or other connectives might be preferred to avoid awkward phrasing).
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It's important to note that while grammatically correct, using adjective nominalizations with -에 따라 can sometimes sound less natural than using noun phrases or other constructions. For instance, 날씨가 좋음에 따라 is less common than 날씨가 좋아서 or 좋은 날씨에 따라. However, with verbs, especially for continuous or progressive actions, it is a frequently employed and sophisticated construction, particularly in formal or written contexts. This usage allows you to express how a situation evolves concurrently with an ongoing process, emphasizing dynamic influence.
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Sentence Endings:
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The clause containing -에 따라 is typically followed by a statement describing the variable outcome. Common verbs used to conclude such sentences include those that express difference, change, or determination. These verbs can be conjugated in both formal 합니다체 and casual 해체 as per the context of the communication.
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| Ending Type | 다르다 | 변하다 | 결정되다 |
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| :---------- | :----------------- | :----------------- | :----------------- |
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| 합니다체 | 다릅니다 | 변합니다 | 결정됩니다 |
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| 해체 | 달라요 | 변해요 | 결정돼요 |
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Example with both forms:
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Formal: 국가 정책은 시대의 흐름에 따라 변화해야 합니다. (gukka jeongchaeg-eun sidaee heureume ttara byeonhwaya hamnida, "National policies must change according to the trend of the times.")
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Casual: 메뉴는 계절에 따라 달라져요. (menyu-neun gyejeore ttara dallajyeoyo, "The menu changes depending on the season.")

When To Use It

-에 따라 is primarily used to convey that an outcome, characteristic, or decision is contingent upon a preceding condition or standard. Its versatility makes it suitable for a wide range of situations, from formal reports to nuanced daily conversations.
  1. 1Expressing Variability and Contingency:
This is the core function. Use -에 따라 when the subsequent action or state is not fixed but changes, adapts, or differs based on the specific conditions or attributes of the preceding noun. It highlights that the result is not universal but context-dependent.
This is particularly useful when you need to describe how different inputs lead to different outputs, or how circumstances dictate variations in a process.
  • 교통 상황에 따라 도착 시간이 달라질 수 있습니다. (gyotong sanghwange ttara dochak sigani dallajil su isseumnida, "The arrival time may vary depending on traffic conditions.")
  • 개인의 경험에 따라 세상에 대한 시각이 형성됩니다. (gaeinui gyeongheome ttara sesange daehan sigagi hyeongseongdoemnida, "One's perspective on the world is formed according to individual experience.")
  • 제품의 가격은 재료와 디자인에 따라 크게 달라져요. (jepumui gagyeogeun jaeryowa dijaine ttara keuge dallajyeoyo, "The product's price varies greatly depending on the materials and design.")
  1. 1Stating Criteria, Standards, or Regulations:
When referring to rules, guidelines, or established criteria that dictate an action or classification, -에 따라 is the appropriate choice. It frames the subsequent action as being in compliance with or determined by these standards. This usage is common in official documents, legal contexts, or when explaining procedures.
  • 회사의 규정에 따라 정해진 절차를 따라야 합니다. (hoesa-ui gyujeonge ttara jeonghaejin jeolchareul ttaraya hamnida, "You must follow the established procedures according to company regulations.")
  • 평가 기준에 따라 합격 여부가 결정됩니다. (pyeongga gijune ttara hapgyeok yeobuga gyeoljeongdoemnida, "Pass or fail is decided according to the evaluation criteria.")
  • 법률에 따라 개인 정보가 보호됩니다. (beomnyure ttara gaein jeongboga boho-doemnida, "Personal information is protected according to the law.")
  1. 1Describing Proportional Development or Change Over Time:
When used with nominalized verbs, particularly those denoting growth, development, or progression, -에 따라 can express that something changes or develops proportionally as the preceding action unfolds. This conveys a sense of concurrent development or evolving conditions. This is a more advanced application, highlighting dynamic relationships over a period.
  • 기술이 발달함에 따라 생활이 편리해졌습니다. (gisuri balldalham-e ttara saenghwali pyeonlihaejyeossseumnida, "As technology developed, life became more convenient.")
  • 인구가 증가함에 따라 도시 문제는 복잡해집니다. (inguga jeunggaham-e ttara dosi munje-neun bokjapaejimnida, "As the population increases, urban problems become more complex.")
  • 시간이 지남에 따라 사람들의 인식이 변해요. (sigani jiname ttara saramdeurui insigi byeonhaeyo, "People's perceptions change as time passes.")
  1. 1General Observations and Human Behavior:
It is frequently used to make general statements about how different individuals or groups react to the same stimulus, emphasizing diversity in response or preference. This allows for nuanced social commentary or discussion of individual differences.
  • 사람에 따라 같은 상황을 다르게 해석할 수 있어요. (sarame ttara gateun sanghwangeul dareuge haeseokhal su isseoyo, "People can interpret the same situation differently depending on the person.")
  • 취향에 따라 선호하는 음악 장르가 달라요. (chwihyange ttara seonhohaneun eumak jangreuga dallayo, "Preferred music genres differ depending on taste.")
  • 문화적 배경에 따라 의사소통 방식에 차이가 있습니다. (munhwajeok baegyeonge ttara uisatosong bangsig-e chaiga isseumnida, "There are differences in communication styles depending on cultural background.")

Common Mistakes

Understanding the nuances of -에 따라 is key to avoiding common errors, especially differentiating it from superficially similar grammar patterns. Learners frequently misuse it when a simpler causal explanation is needed or when a more precise proportional relationship is implied by other structures.
  1. 1Confusing with -에 의하면 (-e uihamyeon, "according to [source]"):
This is perhaps the most common point of confusion for B2 learners. While both translate to "according to," their grammatical functions are distinct.
  • -에 따라: Indicates that something changes based on a condition, standard, or variable. The preceding element is the criterion itself that dictates the variability.
  • Example: 설문 조사 결과에 따라 정책 방향이 결정됩니다. (seolmun josa gyeolgwane ttara jeongchaek banghyangi gyeoljeongdoemnida, "The policy direction is decided according to the survey results.") Here, the survey results are the criterion for decision-making.
  • -에 의하면: Indicates that information or a statement originates from a specific source. The preceding element is the source of information or quotation.
  • Example: 뉴스에 의하면 내일 비가 올 거라고 합니다. (nyuseue uihamyeon naeil biga ol georago hamnida, "According to the news, it will rain tomorrow.") Here, the news (뉴스) is the source of the weather forecast.
Incorrect Usage Example: 선생님에 따라 숙제가 많다고 해요. (X)
  • This implies the amount of homework changes based on the teacher, which is technically true in reality, but grammarians and native speakers would typically use -에 의하면 or -(으)ㄴ/는 바에 의하면 for quoting a person's statement or opinion directly.
  • Corrected (Quoting): 선생님에 따르면 숙제가 많다고 해요. (seonsaengnim-e ttareumyeon sukjega mantago haeyo, "According to the teacher, there's a lot of homework.") - using -(으)ㅁ nominalization of 따르다 with -면 is a common and polite way to express "according to (a person/source)."
  • Corrected (Variability): 선생님의 수업 방식에 따라 숙제 양이 달라져요. (seonsaengnim-ui sueop bangsig-e ttara sukje yangi dallajyeoyo, "The amount of homework changes depending on the teacher's teaching style.") - This correctly uses -에 따라 to express actual variability based on a criterion (the teaching style).
  1. 1Using it for Simple Cause-and-Effect Instead of Variability:
-에 따라 implies a range of outcomes based on a range of conditions. If there's a fixed, singular cause-and-effect relationship, -기 때문에 (-gi ttaemune, "because of") or other causal connectives are more appropriate. Overusing -에 따라 in simple causal contexts makes your Korean sound overly formal or unnecessarily complex.
  • Incorrect Usage Example: 비가 옴에 따라 소풍을 취소했어요. (X)
  • This sounds unnatural because canceling a picnic due to rain is a direct, singular consequence, not a variable outcome where different amounts of rain lead to different picnic statuses.
  • Corrected: 비가 왔기 때문에 소풍을 취소했어요. (biga wassgi ttaemune sopungeul chwisohaesseoyo, "We canceled the picnic because it rained.")
  • Appropriate use of -에 따라 for rain: 강수량에 따라 도로 통제가 달라질 수 있습니다. (gangsuryange ttara doro tongjega dallajil su isseumnida, "Road control measures may vary depending on the amount of rainfall.") - Here, the degree of road control changes with the amount of rain, correctly showing variability.
  1. 1Forgetting Nominalization with Verbs/Adjectives:
As discussed, verbs and adjectives must be nominalized with -(으)ㅁ before -에 따라 can attach. Omitting this step is a grammatical error and will render the sentence unintelligible or incorrect.
  • Incorrect Usage Example: 날씨 좋다에 따라 기분이 좋아요. (X) - You cannot directly attach -에 따라 to an adjective stem.
  • Corrected (Grammatically): 날씨 좋음에 따라 기분이 좋아요. (nalssi joeume ttara gibuni johayo, "My mood is good according to the good weather.") (While grammatically correct, this phrasing is stiff. A more natural expression would be 날씨가 좋아서 기분이 좋아요. or 날씨가 좋은 날에는 기분이 좋아요.)
  • Better example with nominalized verb: 경제가 발전함에 따라 삶의 질이 향상되었습니다. (gyeongjega baljeonham-e ttara salmui jiri hyangsangdoeeosseumnida, "As the economy developed, the quality of life improved.") Here, 발전함 (baljeonham) is the nominalized form of 발전하다 (baljeonhada, to develop).
  1. 1Confusing with -(으)ㄹ수록 (-(eu)lssurok, "the more..., the more..."):
While both express a form of proportionality or correlation, their focus differs significantly. This distinction is crucial for B2 learners to master subtle relational expressions.
  • -에 따라: Focuses on variability based on a condition/standard. The relationship isn't necessarily linear or increasing. It states that if X is this way, Y is that way; if X is another way, Y is a different way. The relationship describes how Y changes in response to X's specific state.
  • -(으)ㄹ수록: Focuses on a direct, increasing proportion – as one thing increases/decreases, another also increases/decreases proportionally or correlatively. It implies a continuous, often linear, scale.
  • Example 운동할수록 건강해져요. (undonghalssurok geonganghaejyeoyo, "The more you exercise, the healthier you get.")
When to choose which: If the relationship is a clear "more of X equals more of Y" or "less of X equals less of Y," use -(으)ㄹ수록. If the relationship is "Y changes depending on X," where X can take various forms (not just increasing/decreasing) leading to various Ys, use -에 따라. For example, 계절이 바뀜에 따라 (as the season changes) implies a qualitative change, not just an increase, whereas 온도가 높을수록 (the higher the temperature) implies a quantitative increase.
  1. 1Overuse in Casual Contexts:
While versatile, -에 따라 can sometimes sound a bit formal or weighty in very casual, simple exchanges. Simpler expressions or context might be more natural, especially when speaking informally with close friends. Using overly formal grammar in casual settings can create an unnatural or distant impression.
  • Example: Instead of 제 기분에 따라 커피를 마셔요. (je gibune ttara keopireul masyeoyo, "I drink coffee depending on my mood."), which is technically correct but a bit stiff for a casual chat, a native speaker might simply say 기분에 따라 커피 마셔요. (dropping the subject marker for conciseness), or even 기분 좋으면 커피 마셔요. (gibun joeumyeon keopi masyeoyo, "If I'm in a good mood, I drink coffee.") if the nuance is just conditional. Or, 저는 커피를 제 기분에 맞춰 마셔요. (jeoneun keopireul je gibune majchwo masyeoyo, "I drink coffee according to my mood.") using 맞추다 (majchuda, to match/adjust). The choice depends on the desired level of formality and precision.

Real Conversations

Understanding how -에 따라 functions in formal grammar is one thing; observing its use in authentic communication provides deeper insight into its pragmatic applications. Here are examples showcasing its versatility across various registers, from news reports to casual online discussions.

News Report / Formal Announcement (합니다체)

In news reports, official statements, and academic writing, -에 따라 lends precision and formality, particularly when discussing policies, research findings, or market conditions. It is frequently employed to present findings or justify decisions based on specific criteria.

- 최근 연구 결과에 따라 새로운 치료법 개발이 가속화될 전망입니다.

(choegeun yeonggu gyeolgwane ttara saeroun chiryobeop gaebari gasokhwa-doel jeonmangimnida.)

"According to recent research results, the development of new treatment methods is expected to accelerate."

(Observation: Here, the research results act as the criterion or basis upon which the acceleration of development is predicted. This is a common structure in academic or scientific reporting.)*

- 정부의 에너지 정책 변화에 따라 전기 요금 인상 가능성이 제기되었습니다.

(jeongbu-ui eneoji jeongchaek byeonhwaye ttara jeongi yoguemin sang ganeungseongi jegidoeeossseumnida.)

"The possibility of electricity rate hikes has been raised depending on the government's energy policy changes."

(Observation: This sentence clearly shows the contingency of electricity rates on policy changes, making it suitable for political or economic news.)*

Online Forum / Social Media (해체 or slightly more formal endings)

While inherently formal, -에 따라 is frequently adapted for online discourse when discussing varied opinions, experiences, or recommendations. It maintains its sense of conditionality, often used to acknowledge diverse perspectives without being confrontational.

- User A: 이 식당 음식 맛있어요? (i sikdang eumsik masisseoyo?, "Is the food at this restaurant delicious?")

- User B: 음... 사람에 따라 호불호가 갈리는 편이에요. 어떤 메뉴를 좋아하세요?

(eum... sarame ttara hoburhoga gallineun pyeonieyo. eotteon menyureul johahaseyo?)

"Hmm... it's a place where likes and dislikes vary depending on the person. What kind of menu do you like?"

(Observation: 사람에 따라 is a very common phrase to acknowledge individual differences in preferences, opinions, or reactions. This is a culturally insightful way to give a balanced review.)*

- 여행지는 계절에 따라 분위기가 많이 달라져요. 가을에 가면 더 좋을 거예요.

(yeohaengjineun gyejeore ttara bunwigiga mani dallajyeoyo. ga-eure gamyeon deo joeul geoyeyo.)

"The atmosphere of a travel destination changes a lot depending on the season. It will be better if you go in the fall."

(Observation: Here, the season is the variable factor influencing the atmosphere of the destination. This provides helpful advice for travelers.)*

Business or Project Communication (합니다체 / 중간에)

In professional contexts like emails, memos, or project discussions, -에 따라 is crucial for outlining flexible plans, contingent requirements, or policy applications. It allows for clear communication of conditional terms and adaptable strategies.

- 프로젝트의 진행 상황에 따라 추가 인력 배치가 필요할 수 있습니다.

(peurojekteuui jinhaeng sanghwange ttara chuga illyeok baechiga piryohal su isseumnida.)

"Depending on the project's progress, additional personnel deployment may be necessary."

(Observation: This highlights a conditional need for resources based on project status, a practical application in project management.)*

- 고객의 요구사항이 변경됨에 따라 디자인 수정이 불가피해졌습니다.

(gogaegui yogusahangi byeongyeongdoeme ttara dijain sujeongi bulgapihyeojyeossseumnida.)

"As the client's requirements changed, design revisions became unavoidable."

(Observation: Here, the nominalized verb 변경되다 (to be changed) is used to show a dynamic dependency, common in client-facing communication where requirements can shift.)*

These examples demonstrate that while -에 따라 carries a formal weight, its core meaning of "depending on" or "according to" makes it an incredibly versatile pattern in various communication settings. It allows speakers and writers to acknowledge the dynamic and often complex nature of situations, offering nuanced explanations rather than absolute statements.

Quick FAQ

These frequently asked questions address common queries from B2-level learners, providing concise yet comprehensive answers to solidify your understanding of -에 따라.
Q1: Is -에 따라서 always more formal than -에 따라? What is the exact difference?

While often interchangeable in meaning, -에 따라서 generally carries a slightly more formal or emphatic tone than -에 따라. The addition of can subtly highlight the sequential or consequential nature of the dependence, almost like saying "and then, accordingly." In everyday spoken Korean, -에 따라 is more commonly used due to its conciseness. In formal writing or speeches, both are acceptable, but -에 따라서 might be chosen for stylistic variation or added emphasis. It's not a matter of politeness, but rather a subtle difference in nuance and flow. For B2-level communication, understanding this subtle distinction allows you to choose the most appropriate form for your context.

Q2: Can I use -에 따라 with people? For example, 선생님에 따라?

Yes, absolutely. 사람에 따라 (sarame ttara, "depending on the person") is a very common and natural expression to convey that opinions, characteristics, or actions differ from one individual to another. Similarly, 학생에 따라 (haksaenge ttara, "depending on the student") or 고객에 따라 (gogaeke ttara, "depending on the customer") are frequently used. However, remember the distinction with -에 의하면; if you are quoting something a person said, you would use 선생님에 의하면 (or more commonly 선생님에 따르면). If you are stating that something varies because of the person's inherent characteristics or roles, then 선생님에 따라 is correct.

  • Example: 사람에 따라 선호하는 음악 장르가 달라요. (sarame ttara seonhohaneun eumak jangreuga dallayo, "Preferred music genres differ depending on the person.")
  • Example: 학생에 따라 학습 속도가 다를 수 있습니다. (haksaenge ttara hakseup sokdoga dareul su isseumnida, "Learning speed may differ depending on the student.")
Q3: How does -에 따라 relate to expressions like 상황에 맞게 (sanghwange matge, "fitting the situation") or 상황에 맞춰서 (sanghwange majchwoseo, "matching the situation")?

These expressions are closely related conceptually but differ in grammatical structure and nuance.

  • -에 따라: Focuses on variability or consequence based on a condition. The outcome is determined by the preceding factor, often inherently or as a natural result.
  • -에 맞게 / -에 맞춰서: Emphasizes adjustment or conformity to a condition. The action is intentionally adapted to fit the preceding factor, often implying conscious effort or design.
While both convey adaptation, -에 따라 often describes an inherent or natural variation, while -에 맞게/맞춰서 implies a conscious effort to make something suitable or to tailor an action. For example, 계절에 따라 옷차림이 달라집니다. (gyejeore ttara otcharimi dallajimnida, "Clothing changes depending on the season.") describes a natural, responsive change. Conversely, 계절에 맞게 옷을 입어야 해요. (gyejeore matge oseul ibeoya haeyo, "You should dress to suit the season.") implies a deliberate choice to adapt one's attire.
Q4: Can -에 따라 be used in a rhetorical question?

Yes, it can, especially to imply that the answer is conditional and not straightforward, often in a contemplative or slightly exasperated tone. This use adds depth to rhetorical queries, suggesting that a simple, universal answer is not possible.

  • Example: 이런 상황에서 우리가 뭘 할 수 있을까요? 사람에 따라 답이 다를 텐데요. (ireon sanghwangeseo uriga mwol hal su isseulkkayo? sarame ttara dabi dareul tende-yo, "What can we do in this situation? The answer will probably differ depending on the person.")
Q5: Are there any specific verbs that commonly follow -에 따라?

Yes, certain verbs frequently pair with -에 따라 because they intrinsically describe change, variation, or determination. Mastering these common pairings enhances your fluency and naturalness in using this pattern. The most common include:

  • 다르다 (dareuda, to be different/vary): 문화에 따라 가치관이 다릅니다. (munhwae ttara gachigwani dareumnida, "Values differ depending on culture.")
  • 변하다 (byeonhada, to change): 계획은 예상치 못한 상황에 따라 변할 수 있습니다. (gyehoeg-eun yesangchi mothan sanghwange ttara byeonhal su isseumnida, "Plans can change depending on unexpected situations.")
  • 달라지다 (dallajida, to become different/change): 날씨에 따라 바다색이 달라져요. (nalssie ttara badasaegi dallajyeoyo, "The color of the sea changes depending on the weather.")
  • 결정되다 (gyeongjeongdoeda, to be decided): 최종 예산은 회의 결과에 따라 결정될 것입니다. (choejong yesaneun hoeuigyeolgwane ttara gyeoljeongdoel geosimnida, "The final budget will be decided according to the meeting results.")
  • 나뉘다 (nanuida, to be divided/classified): 그룹은 연령에 따라 나뉩니다. (geurup-eun yeollyeonge ttara nanwimnida, "The groups are divided according to age.")
  • 조정되다 (jojeongdoeda, to be adjusted): 일정은 참가 인원에 따라 조정될 예정입니다. (iljeong-eun chamga inwone ttara jojeongdoel yejeongimnida, "The schedule is expected to be adjusted according to the number of participants.")
These verbs effectively complete the structure of -에 따라 by articulating the specific nature of the variability or contingency being expressed.

Formation Table

Noun Particle Result
날씨
에 따라
날씨에 따라
상황
에 따라
상황에 따라
규정
에 따라
규정에 따라
나이
에 따라
나이에 따라
의견
에 따라
의견에 따라
기준
에 따라
기준에 따라

Meanings

Indicates that the following action or state varies in response to the preceding noun.

1

Conditional Variation

Something changes based on a condition.

“성적에 따라 장학금을 받아요.”

“기분에 따라 옷을 골라요.”

2

Compliance/Following

Acting in accordance with a rule or instruction.

“규정에 따라 처리하겠습니다.”

“법에 따라 처벌받습니다.”

Reference Table

Reference table for Depending On... (-에 따라)
Form Structure Example
Affirmative
Noun + 에 따라
날씨에 따라 달라요
Emphatic
Noun + 에 따라서
상황에 따라서 달라요
Formal
Noun + 에 따라
규정에 따라 합니다
Noun-clause
Verb-는 것 + 에 따라
먹는 것에 따라 달라요

Formality Spectrum

Formal
상황에 따라 다릅니다.

상황에 따라 다릅니다. (General)

Neutral
상황에 따라 달라요.

상황에 따라 달라요. (General)

Informal
상황에 따라 달라.

상황에 따라 달라. (General)

Slang
상황 나름이지.

상황 나름이지. (General)

The 'Depending On' Concept

Variable (Noun)

Outcomes

  • 달라지다 change
  • 결정되다 be decided

Examples by Level

1

날씨에 따라 달라요.

It depends on the weather.

1

사람에 따라 생각이 달라요.

Thoughts differ depending on the person.

1

규정에 따라 처리하겠습니다.

I will process it according to the rules.

1

상황에 따라서 계획을 변경할 수 있습니다.

Depending on the situation, we can change the plan.

1

연령대에 따라 소비 패턴이 확연히 구분됩니다.

Consumption patterns are clearly distinguished by age group.

1

법적 절차에 따라 엄격히 집행될 것입니다.

It will be strictly enforced according to legal procedures.

Easily Confused

Depending On... (-에 따라) vs -에 의하면

Both translate to 'according to'.

Common Mistakes

날씨 따라 달라요

날씨에 따라 달라요

Missing the particle 에.

먹다에 따라

먹는 것에 따라

Cannot attach directly to a verb.

뉴스에 따라

뉴스에 의하면

Used for sources, not conditions.

상황에 따라가서

상황에 따라서

Redundant verb usage.

Sentence Patterns

___에 따라 달라요.

Real World Usage

Food Delivery App common

주문량에 따라 배달 시간이 달라집니다.

💡

Noun forms

Always turn verbs into noun forms before using -에 따라.

Smart Tips

Use -에 따라 to show correlation.

날씨가 변하면 기분도 변해요. 날씨에 따라 기분이 변해요.

Pronunciation

tta-ra

Linking

The 'ㄹ' in 따라 is a flap sound.

Rising

날씨에 따라? (Rising tone)

Questioning the condition.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of a 'Tail' (따라 sounds like 'ttara'). You are following the tail of the noun.

Visual Association

Imagine a chameleon changing colors based on the leaf it sits on. The color (result) changes based on the leaf (noun).

Rhyme

Noun plus 에 따라, changes happen, don't you bother!

Story

Min-su is a chef. He says, 'Depending on the season (계절에 따라), I change the menu.' His customers love it. They know that every time they visit, the food will be different.

Word Web

날씨상황규정나이기준의견

Challenge

Write 3 sentences about your day using 'Depending on...'

Cultural Notes

Used frequently in meetings to show flexibility.

Derived from the verb 따르다 (to follow).

Conversation Starters

오늘 날씨가 어때요?

Journal Prompts

Write about how your mood changes.

Common Mistakes

Incorrect

Correct


Incorrect

Correct


Incorrect

Correct


Incorrect

Correct

Test Yourself

Fill in the blank.

날씨___ 따라 달라요.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer:
Particle needed is 에.

Score: /1

Practice Exercises

1 exercises
Fill in the blank.

날씨___ 따라 달라요.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer:
Particle needed is 에.

Score: /1

Practice Bank

10 exercises
Fill in the blank: 'Depending on the time...' Fill in the Blank

___ 버스 요금이 다를 수 있어요. (Time: 시간)

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 시간에 따라
Translate to Korean: 'It depends on the situation.' Translation

Translate: It depends on the situation. (Situation: 상황)

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 상황에 따라 달라요.
Fix the sentence: 'According to the rules, please do it.' Error Correction

규칙을 따라 하세요.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 규칙에 따라 하세요.
Reorder the words: 달라요 / 기분이 / 따라 / 날씨에 Sentence Reorder

Reorder: [달라요, 기분이, 따라, 날씨에]

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 날씨에 따라 기분이 달라요.
Which one means 'Depending on the season'? Multiple Choice

Season: 계절

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 계절에 따라
Match the English to the Korean Match Pairs

Match these pairs

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 사람에 따라
Fill in the blank: 'Depending on the result...' Fill in the Blank

___ 기분이 좋거나 나빠요. (Result: 결과)

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 결과에 따라
Choose the most natural ending for: '상황에 따라...' Multiple Choice

상황에 따라...

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 달라요
Translate: 'According to the MBTI result...' Translation

Translate: According to the MBTI result. (Result: 결과)

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: MBTI 결과에 따라
Fix: 'Depending on the filter, it's pretty.' Error Correction

필터에 의하면 예뻐요.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 필터에 따라 예뻐요.

Score: /10

FAQ (1)

No, you must use a noun form like -는 것.

Scaffolded Practice

1

1

Mastery Progress

Needs Practice

Improving

Strong

Mastered

In Other Languages

Spanish high

según

Según is a preposition, -에 따라 is a particle construction.

French high

selon

French uses one word; Korean uses a particle + verb.

German high

je nach

German is a two-word phrase.

Japanese high

~によって

Japanese uses a different verb root.

Arabic moderate

حسب

Arabic is a noun/preposition.

Chinese moderate

根据

Chinese is a verb/preposition.

Learning Path

Prerequisites

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