B1 Connective Endings 14 min read Medium

Korean Emphatic Concessive: Even If/Though (-더라도)

Use -더라도 to express strong determination or advice that holds true even in hypothetical, extreme situations.

Grammar Rule in 30 Seconds

Use -더라도 to express that a result remains true regardless of a specific condition or concession.

  • Attach -더라도 directly to the verb or adjective stem.
  • It works with past tense (-았/었더라도) and future tense (-겠더라도).
  • It emphasizes that the condition does not change the outcome.
Verb/Adj Stem + 더라도

Overview

When expressing a concession in Korean, you often encounter -더라도 (-deorado). This grammatical pattern signifies an emphatic concession, conveying the idea of "even if/though" a certain hypothetical or extreme situation occurs, the action or state in the second clause remains true or unaffected. Unlike the more general -아/어도 (-a/eodo), which can simply state a fact, -더라도 introduces a stronger sense of resolve, determination, or hypothetical consideration.

This ending emphasizes that the condition presented in the first clause, often an obstacle or an adverse possibility, does not deter or change the outcome or intent expressed in the second clause. It is frequently employed when you want to highlight unwavering commitment despite potential difficulties or to give strong advice by acknowledging challenges. You will find -더라도 particularly useful at the B1 intermediate level to convey deeper nuances of concession than basic forms allow.

Linguistically, -더라도 functions by constructing a hypothetical or acknowledged obstacle in the preceding clause. This obstacle is then rendered irrelevant by the assertion of the main clause. Consider it the grammatical mechanism for saying, "Even if X were to happen, Y would still be the case." This makes it a crucial tool for expressing resilience and firm conviction in Korean.

For example, 아무리 어려울지라도 포기하지 않을 거예요. (No matter how difficult it may be, I will not give up.) clearly demonstrates this resolute spirit.

How This Grammar Works

At its core, -더라도 operates as a connective ending that links a preceding clause describing a condition to a subsequent clause describing a result. The key linguistic function here is to assert that the condition in the first clause, whether real or imagined, does not negate or alter the validity, intention, or command of the second clause. It is fundamentally about creating a strong logical link where the second clause prevails over the first.
This pattern often implies a situation that is either hypothetical, extreme, or acknowledged as potentially difficult. The speaker concedes the possibility of the first clause's content but immediately asserts its irrelevance to the second clause. For instance, 비가 오더라도 갈 겁니다. (Even if it rains, I will go.) implies a strong decision to go, regardless of the rain, which is acknowledged as a potential impediment.
This highlights a deliberate choice to overcome or disregard the initial condition.
It is common for -더라도 to be paired with adverbs like 비록 (birok, meaning "even though/if") or 아무리 (amuri, meaning "no matter how/what"). These adverbs serve to amplify the concessive nature of the first clause, further underscoring that the second clause remains true despite an intensified hypothetical situation. 아무리 피곤하더라도 운동해야 해요. (No matter how tired you are, you must exercise.) uses 아무리 to stress the extent of tiredness, yet still insists on the necessity of exercise.
Such pairings reinforce the unwavering stance.
Crucially, the second clause connected by -더라도 typically expresses intention, command, request, suggestion, or a strong statement of fact. It rarely describes a simple past event or a neutral observation. The focus is almost always on future actions, strong advice, or general truths.
You wouldn't use it for a simple, neutral observation like "Even if it was cold, the sky was clear." Instead, you might say, 힘들더라도 끝까지 해 보세요. (Even if it's difficult, try until the end.), which is a strong suggestion or command. The grammatical construction is designed to convey impact and consequence.

Formation Pattern

1
Forming sentences with -더라도 is relatively straightforward, as it attaches directly to verb stems, adjective stems, or nouns, with minimal irregularities. This consistent application makes it an accessible pattern for B1 learners.
2
Verbs and Adjectives (Present Tense)
3
Attach -더라도 directly to the verb or adjective stem. This applies regardless of whether the stem ends in a vowel or a consonant.
4
가다 (to go) → 가더라도 (even if [one] goes)
5
먹다 (to eat) → 먹더라도 (even if [one] eats)
6
바쁘다 (to be busy) → 바쁘더라도 (even if [one is] busy)
7
멀다 (to be far) → 멀더라도 (even if [it is] far)
8
_Example:_ 힘들더라도 계속 노력할 겁니다. (Even if it's hard, I will keep trying.)
9
Verbs and Adjectives (Past Tense)
10
To express a hypothetical past condition ("even if [something] had happened"), use the past tense auxiliary (-았/었/였) followed by -더라도.
11
하다 (to do) → 했더라도 (even if [one] had done it)
12
먹다 (to eat) → 먹었더라도 (even if [one] had eaten)
13
공부하다 (to study) → 공부했더라도 (even if [one] had studied)
14
_Example:_ 그때 갔더라도 결과는 같았을 거예요. (Even if I had gone then, the result would have been the same.)
15
Nouns
16
For nouns, attach -(이)더라도. Use 이더라도 after a noun ending in a consonant, and 더라도 after a noun ending in a vowel.
17
Noun ending in consonant: 학생 (student) → 학생이더라도 (even if [one is] a student)
18
Noun ending in vowel: 친구 (friend) → 친구이더라도 (even if [they are] a friend)
19
_Example:_ 아무리 작은 일이라고 하더라도 최선을 다해야 합니다. (Even if it's a small task, you must do your best.) Note that 친구이더라도 can sometimes be shortened to 친구더라도 in very casual speech, but 친구이더라도 is the grammatically complete form.
20
Summary Table of Formation:
21
| Word Type | Stem Ending | Pattern | Example (Formal) | Example (Casual) | Translation |
22
| :-------- | :---------- | :------ | :--------------- | :--------------- | :---------- |
23
| Verb/Adj | Any | -더라도 | 가더라도 갈 겁니다. | 가더라도 갈 거야. | Even if I go, I'll go. |
24
| Verb/Adj | Past Aux. | -았/었/였더라도 | 했더라도 마찬가지입니다. | 했더라도 마찬가지야. | Even if I had done it, it'd be the same. |
25
| Noun | Vowel | -(이)더라도 | 친구이더라도 도와주세요. | 친구이더라도 도와줘. | Even if they're a friend, please help. |
26
| Noun | Consonant | -(이)더라도 | 학생이더라도 잘합니다. | 학생이더라도 잘해. | Even if they're a student, they do well. |

When To Use It

-더라도 is employed to convey specific nuances of concession that go beyond simple "even if." Its primary use cases revolve around expressing strong resolve, hypothetical extremes, and providing emphatic advice.
  1. 1Expressing Strong Willpower and Determination
Use -더라도 when you want to emphasize an unwavering commitment or determination despite potential obstacles or difficulties. It highlights that no matter the adverse condition, your intent or action will not change. This often appears in statements of personal conviction or promises.
  • 어떤 어려움이 있더라도 포기하지 않겠습니다. (No matter what difficulties there may be, I will not give up.) - A resolute statement.
  • 밤샘을 하더라도 이 프로젝트는 오늘 끝낼 거예요. (Even if I have to stay up all night, I will finish this project today.) - Shows strong determination to complete a task.
  1. 1Discussing Hypothetical Extreme Situations
This pattern is perfect for situations that are highly hypothetical, perhaps unlikely, or extreme, yet are conceded as possibilities. The speaker considers such an extreme scenario and asserts that even under those conditions, the outcome remains constant. It's about considering the worst-case and standing firm.
  • 세상이 변하더라도 우리의 우정은 변치 않을 것입니다. (Even if the world changes, our friendship will not change.) - A statement about an unchanging bond despite a grand hypothetical.
  • 복권에 당첨되었더라도 일을 그만두지는 않았을 거예요. (Even if I had won the lottery, I wouldn't have quit my job.) - A reflection on a hypothetical extreme past event.
  1. 1Giving Emphatic Advice or Requests
When you want to give advice or make a request with strong emphasis, acknowledging the potential difficulty for the listener, -더라도 is highly effective. It softens the command while strengthening the underlying message, making the advice sound more thoughtful and impactful.
  • 피곤하더라도 조금만 더 힘내세요. (Even if you're tired, please hold on just a little longer.) - Empathetic encouragement.
  • 바쁘시더라도 연락 꼭 주세요. (Even if you're busy, please make sure to contact me.) - A polite but firm request, acknowledging the other person's circumstances.
  1. 1Reflecting on Past Hypotheticals (with -았/었/였더라도)
When combined with the past tense auxiliary, -았/었/였더라도 allows you to reflect on "even if X had happened." This is used to speculate about what would have been true or would have occurred had a past hypothetical condition been met, often implying that the actual outcome was unchanged or would have been the same.
  • 제가 갔었더라도 그들은 못 만났을 거예요. (Even if I had gone, I wouldn't have been able to meet them.) - Speculating on the futility of a past action.
Culturally, -더라도 resonates with a sense of resilience and endurance, often appearing in motivational quotes, inspirational speeches, and K-drama dialogues where characters face immense challenges but uphold their beliefs or commitments. It encapsulates a "never say never" attitude, making it a powerful expression of will.

Common Mistakes

Understanding the subtle distinctions of -더라도 is crucial, as misusing it can lead to unnatural or incorrect Korean. Learners commonly make specific errors, primarily involving its contrast with similar concessive endings and its application in different tenses.
  1. 1Confusing -더라도 with -아/어도
This is the most frequent error. While both mean "even if," their nuance of emphasis and hypotheticality differs significantly. -아/어도 is a general concessive used for established facts, likely scenarios, or neutral statements. -더라도, however, is reserved for more hypothetical, extreme, or challenging conditions, emphasizing the speaker's strong will or the unchanging nature of the second clause despite the first. If you say 비가 와도 갈게요. (I'll go even if it rains.), it's a simple statement. If you say 비가 오더라도 갈게요. (Even if it rains, I'll go.), you're conveying stronger resolve, acknowledging rain as a greater potential impediment, or emphasizing the certainty of your going despite it.
  • Incorrect: 어제 날씨가 좋았더라도 집에 있었어요. (Even if the weather was good yesterday, I stayed home.) - 어제 날씨가 좋았어도 집에 있었어요. is more natural for a past fact. -더라도 implies a stronger, often hypothetical, condition.
  1. 1Incorrect Second Clause Formulation
As previously discussed, the second clause with -더라도 typically expresses intention, command, request, suggestion, or strong factual assertion, not simple past declarative statements or neutral observations. Using it with a weak or unrelated consequence sounds awkward.
  • Incorrect: 비싸더라도 하늘이 파랬어요. (Even if it was expensive, the sky was blue.) - These two clauses have no logical emphatic connection. The concession makes no sense.
  • Correct: 비싸더라도 꼭 사고 싶어요. (Even if it's expensive, I definitely want to buy it.) - Expresses strong intention.
  1. 1Misapplying to Simple Past Factual Events
-더라도 is generally not used for factual events that occurred in the past, where the first clause is a confirmed past event. For such cases, other forms like -았/었/였어도 or -았/었/였는데도 are more appropriate. -았/었/였더라도 is for hypothetical past scenarios, not simply stating an actual past concession.
  • Incorrect: 많이 먹었더라도 배가 안 불렀어요. (Even though I ate a lot, I wasn't full.) - For a past fact, use 많이 먹었는데도 배가 안 불렀어요. or 많이 먹었어도 배가 안 불렀어요. 먹었더라도 would imply, "Even if I had eaten a lot, I still wouldn't have been full," focusing on a hypothetical.
  1. 1Omitting in Noun Forms
When attaching -더라도 to nouns, especially those ending in a consonant, learners sometimes forget to include the linking particle (-이더라도). While casual speech might sometimes drop it, the grammatically correct and clearer form maintains .
  • Incorrect: 학생더라도 잘합니다.
  • Correct: 학생이더라도 잘합니다. (Even if [they are] a student, they do well.)
  1. 1Overusing or Misplacing 비록 and 아무리
While 비록 and 아무리 often accompany -더라도, they are not mandatory for every usage. Overusing them or placing them awkwardly can make sentences sound overly dramatic or stiff. Use them when you genuinely want to amplify the emphasis on the concessive clause.
  • Awkward: 비록 비록 어렵더라도 해볼게요. (Redundant use of 비록)
  • Better: 비록 어렵더라도 해볼게요. (Even if it's difficult, I'll try.)

Real Conversations

Understanding how -더라도 is used in authentic Korean conversations provides insight into its practical application and the nuances native speakers convey. It appears in various contexts, from casual chats to more formal advice.

1. Expressing Personal Resolve (Casual/Informal):

- A: 시험 진짜 어렵다는데, 어떡해? (They say the exam is really hard, what are we going to do?)

- B: 아무리 어렵더라도 합격할 때까지 공부할 거야. (No matter how hard it is, I'm going to study until I pass.)

- _Analysis:_ Speaker B uses 아무리 + 어렵더라도 to emphasize their strong determination to pass the exam, regardless of its difficulty. The -ㄹ 거야 ending indicates strong intention.

2. Giving Empathetic Advice (Semi-Formal):

- A: 요즘 너무 바빠서 부모님께 전화도 못 드렸어요. (I've been so busy lately that I haven't even been able to call my parents.)

- B: 바쁘시더라도 자주 연락드리는 게 중요해요. (Even if you're busy, it's important to contact them often.)

- _Analysis:_ Speaker B acknowledges A's busyness (바쁘시더라도) but still provides gentle yet firm advice. The -는 게 중요해요 structure highlights the importance.

3. Hypothetical Past Scenario (Casual):

- A: 그때 네가 말려줬으면 내가 실수 안 했을 텐데. (If you had stopped me then, I wouldn't have made that mistake.)

- B: 내가 말렸더라도 너는 들었을 리 없어. (Even if I had stopped you, there's no way you would have listened.)

- _Analysis:_ Speaker B uses 말렸더라도 (past tense) to dismiss a hypothetical past condition, implying the outcome would have been the same. The -(으)ㄹ 리 없어 ending expresses strong disbelief or certainty about an outcome.

4. Setting Conditions for a Request (Semi-Formal):

- 오늘 미팅은 제가 좀 늦더라도 꼭 참석하겠습니다. (Even if I'm a bit late today, I will definitely attend the meeting.)

- _Analysis:_ This is a self-imposed condition. The speaker acknowledges the possibility of being late but strongly affirms their commitment to attend the meeting. The -(겠)습니다 ending denotes a formal intention.

5. Social Media/Motivational Context (Informal):

- _Caption:_ 비록 힘든 순간이 오더라도 절대 좌절하지 마세요! (Even if difficult moments come, never despair!)

- _Analysis:_ Here, 비록 reinforces the concessive, and 힘들더라도 sets up the challenging scenario. The imperative 좌절하지 마세요 offers strong encouragement, typical of motivational content.

These examples illustrate that -더라도 is not merely a grammatical rule but a tool for injecting emotional weight, personal conviction, and persuasive power into your Korean expressions. Mastering its use will significantly enhance your ability to communicate complex feelings and intentions.

Quick FAQ

Here are answers to common questions about -더라도 that can clarify its usage and help you avoid typical pitfalls.
  • Q1: Can I use -더라도 with different politeness levels, like endings?
A1: Absolutely. -더라도 is a connective ending and does not determine the politeness level of the entire sentence. The politeness of the sentence is determined by the final ending of the second clause.
You can combine it with casual 어/아/여, polite 아요/어요/여요, formal 습니다/ㅂ니다, or imperative 세요/으십시오.
  • 늦더라도 오세요. (Even if you're late, please come. - Polite command)
  • 늦더라도 올게요. (Even if I'm late, I'll come. - Polite intention)
  • Q2: Is -더라도 always used for negative or difficult situations?
A2: While it often appears in contexts involving obstacles or challenges, it isn't exclusively for negative situations. It can be used whenever you want to emphasize that any condition in the first clause, regardless of its nature, does not alter the second clause. However, its emphatic nature means it's most impactful when acknowledging potential difficulties or extreme cases.
  • 아무리 기쁘더라도 울지 마세요. (No matter how happy you are, don't cry.) - Here, "being happy" is not negative, but the concession emphasizes emotional control.
  • Q3: What's the main difference between -더라도, -아/어도, and -을지라도?
A3: These three forms express concession but with varying degrees of emphasis and formality:
  • -아/어도: The most common and neutral "even if/though." It can apply to general facts, likely possibilities, or mild hypothetical situations. It's the default choice for everyday concession.
  • -더라도: More emphatic and hypothetical than -아/어도. It conveys strong resolve, determination, or considers a more extreme/unlikely condition, asserting that it won't change the outcome. Suitable for strong statements and advice.
  • -을지라도 (-euljilado): The most formal and literary of the three. It carries an even stronger emphasis on an extreme, often unlikely, or profound hypothetical situation, often found in elevated language, proverbs, legal texts, or poetic expressions. It sounds overly dramatic or stiff in casual conversation. Think of it as "even if it were to be the case that..." or "though it may be..."
| Feature | -아/어도 | -더라도 | -을지라도 |
| :-------------- | :---------------- | :----------------- | :----------------- |
| Emphasis | Neutral | Strong | Very Strong/Literary |
| Hypothetical| General/Likely | Stronger/Extreme | Profound/Unlikely |
| Formality | Everyday/Neutral | Versatile/Emphatic | Formal/Poetic |
| Usage | Most common | Strong resolve, advice | Elevated language, proverbs |
  • Q4: Can -더라도 be used with 다 하더라도? What's the difference?
A4: Yes, 다 하더라도 (or 는다고 하더라도) is a variation. It literally means "even if one says that (it is so)" or "even if it is said that." This form adds another layer of distancing or reported speech to the concession. It's often used when you're conceding to someone else's statement, claim, or a widely believed notion, and then asserting that even that doesn't change your main point.
  • 사람들이 뭐라 말하더라도 저는 제 길을 갈 거예요. (Even if people say whatever, I will go my own way.)
  • 그것이 사실이라고 하더라도 변명은 안 돼요. (Even if that is true, it's not an excuse.) - Here, 라고 하더라도 attaches to the reported fact, adding a nuance of "even if that is claimed/stated to be true."
  • Q5: Does -더라도 have a Hanja root?
A5: The suffix -더라도 itself is a native Korean grammatical ending. However, the adverb 비록 (birok, 雖), which often accompanies it to provide additional emphasis, is a Hanja-derived word meaning "even though" or "although." This pairing creates a powerful combined expression of emphatic concession.
  • Q6: Can I use -았/었/였더라도 to talk about past facts?
A6: No, -았/었/였더라도 is specifically for hypothetical past situations, not factual past events. It means "even if [something] had happened." If you want to convey a concession about an actual past event (e.g., "Even though X happened, Y still occurred"), you should use -았/었/였어도 or -았/었/였는데도. The nuance is critical: -았/었/였더라도 explores an alternate past, while the others describe the actual past.
  • 그때 일찍 출발했더라도 교통 체증 때문에 늦었을 거예요. (Even if I had left early then, I would have been late because of traffic congestion.) - A hypothetical past scenario.
By carefully considering these distinctions and common errors, you can confidently and accurately employ -더라도 to enrich your Korean communication with nuanced expressions of resolve and hypothetical concession.

Conjugation Table

Verb/Adj Stem Ending Result
가다
-더라도
가더라도
먹다
-더라도
먹더라도
예쁘다
예쁘
-더라도
예쁘더라도
바쁘다
바쁘
-더라도
바쁘더라도
하다
-더라도
하더라도
좋다
-더라도
좋더라도
먹었다
먹었
-더라도
먹었더라도
갔다
-더라도
갔더라도

Meanings

This grammar expresses that even if a certain situation is assumed or conceded, the following clause remains valid.

1

Hypothetical Concession

Even if a hypothetical situation occurs.

“실패하더라도 다시 도전하세요.”

“늦더라도 꼭 오세요.”

2

Past Fact Concession

Even though something happened in the past.

“이미 먹었더라도 말해줘요.”

“알았더라도 안 했을 거예요.”

Reference Table

Reference table for Korean Emphatic Concessive: Even If/Though (-더라도)
Form Structure Example
Affirmative
Stem + 더라도
가더라도
Negative
안 + Stem + 더라도
안 가더라도
Past
Past Stem + 더라도
갔었더라도
Adjective
Adj Stem + 더라도
예쁘더라도
Future
Future Stem + 더라도
가겠더라도
Polite
Stem + 더라도 + 요
가더라도요

Formality Spectrum

Formal
비싸더라도 사겠습니다.

비싸더라도 사겠습니다. (Shopping)

Neutral
비싸더라도 살 거예요.

비싸더라도 살 거예요. (Shopping)

Informal
비싸더라도 살 거야.

비싸더라도 살 거야. (Shopping)

Slang
비싸도 그냥 살래.

비싸도 그냥 살래. (Shopping)

The -더라도 Concept

-더라도

Function

  • Concession Admitting a point

Tone

  • Resolve Strong determination

Examples by Level

1

비가 오더라도 갈 거예요.

Even if it rains, I will go.

2

늦더라도 괜찮아요.

Even if you are late, it's okay.

3

비싸더라도 사고 싶어요.

Even if it's expensive, I want to buy it.

4

힘들더라도 참으세요.

Even if it's hard, please endure it.

1

실패하더라도 다시 하세요.

Even if you fail, try again.

2

몰랐더라도 말해줬어야죠.

Even if you didn't know, you should have told me.

3

바쁘더라도 밥은 먹어요.

Even if you are busy, eat your meal.

4

멀더라도 가고 싶어요.

Even if it's far, I want to go.

1

아무리 힘들더라도 포기하지 마세요.

No matter how hard it is, don't give up.

2

그 사람이 사과했더라도 용서할 수 없어요.

Even if he apologized, I cannot forgive him.

3

시간이 걸리더라도 제대로 합시다.

Even if it takes time, let's do it properly.

4

누가 뭐라 하더라도 내 길을 갈 거예요.

Even if someone says something, I will go my way.

1

상황이 어렵더라도 우리는 해결책을 찾아야 합니다.

Even if the situation is difficult, we must find a solution.

2

이미 결정했더라도 다시 고려해 볼 수 있습니다.

Even if you have already decided, you can reconsider.

3

그 제안이 매력적이더라도 위험 요소가 많습니다.

Even if the proposal is attractive, there are many risk factors.

4

법을 어겼더라도 정상참작의 여지가 있습니다.

Even if he broke the law, there is room for leniency.

1

설령 그가 진실을 말했더라도 결과는 바뀌지 않았을 것이다.

Even if he had told the truth, the result would not have changed.

2

어떠한 고난이 닥치더라도 굴하지 않겠다는 의지.

The will not to yield, even if any hardship strikes.

3

그가 아무리 뛰어난 재능을 가졌더라도 노력 없이는 성공할 수 없다.

Even if he has outstanding talent, he cannot succeed without effort.

4

비록 지금은 힘들더라도 미래를 위해 투자해야 한다.

Even if it is hard now, one must invest for the future.

1

천지가 개벽하더라도 나의 신념은 변치 않을 것이다.

Even if the heavens and earth were to change, my belief will not change.

2

그토록 간절히 원했더라도 인연이 아니면 어쩔 수 없는 법이다.

Even if one wanted it so desperately, if it's not meant to be, it can't be helped.

3

어떠한 변명이 있더라도 책임은 피할 수 없다.

Even if there are any excuses, one cannot avoid responsibility.

4

설령 세상이 나를 등지더라도 나는 나를 믿는다.

Even if the world turns its back on me, I believe in myself.

Easily Confused

Korean Emphatic Concessive: Even If/Though (-더라도) vs -아/어도

Both mean 'even if'.

Korean Emphatic Concessive: Even If/Though (-더라도) vs -을지라도

Both are concessive.

Korean Emphatic Concessive: Even If/Though (-더라도) vs -지만

Both link clauses.

Common Mistakes

비가 오면더라도

비가 오더라도

Don't add -면 before -더라도.

비가 오고더라도

비가 오더라도

Don't use -고 before -더라도.

비가 오지만더라도

비가 오더라도

Don't use -지만 before -더라도.

비가 오아더라도

비가 오더라도

Don't add -아/어 before -더라도.

먹었는더라도

먹었더라도

Use the past stem directly.

예쁜더라도

예쁘더라도

Adjectives don't need noun modifiers.

가다더라도

가더라도

Remove the dictionary form ending.

바쁘겠더라도

바쁘더라도

Usually used with present or past, not future.

알더라도 했어요

알았더라도 했어요

Past tense requires past stem.

비싸더라도 샀어요

비쌌더라도 샀어요

If the state was in the past, use past stem.

말했더라도 했었을 것이다

말했더라도 했을 것이다

Redundant past tense markers.

가더라도가

가더라도

Do not add particles after the connective.

비가 오더라도는

비가 오더라도

Do not add topic markers.

Sentence Patterns

___더라도 ___ 거예요.

___더라도 ___ 마세요.

___더라도 ___ 했어야죠.

___더라도 ___ 수 없습니다.

Real World Usage

Texting very common

늦더라도 먼저 먹어!

Social Media common

비가 오더라도 난 달린다.

Job Interviews occasional

어려움이 있더라도 최선을 다하겠습니다.

Travel common

멀더라도 꼭 가보고 싶어요.

Food Delivery Apps occasional

비싸더라도 맛있는 걸 먹고 싶어.

Work Emails common

시간이 걸리더라도 검토 부탁드립니다.

💡

Focus on Resolve

Use -더라도 when you want to sound determined. It shows you aren't easily swayed.
⚠️

Don't Overuse

In very casual speech, -아/어도 is more common. Save -더라도 for when you really mean 'no matter what'.
🎯

Past Tense

Remember to conjugate the verb to the past tense before adding -더라도 to talk about past concessions.
💬

Politeness

In formal settings, always add -요 or use formal endings after -더라도.

Smart Tips

Use -더라도 instead of -아/어도 to add emphasis to your resolve.

비가 와도 갈 거야. 비가 오더라도 갈 거야.

Use -더라도 to acknowledge potential issues professionally.

비싸지만 살 수 있습니다. 비싸더라도 구매할 수 있습니다.

Use -더라도 to show empathy while still giving firm advice.

힘들면 참아. 힘들더라도 참아.

Use -더라도 with past tense to reflect on what should have happened.

몰랐으면 말해줘. 몰랐더라도 말해줬어야지.

Pronunciation

deu-ra-do

Linking

The 'ㄹ' in -더라도 is pronounced clearly.

Rising

가더라도↗?

Questioning if it's okay even if you go.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of 'The door' (더라도 sounds like 'the door'). Even if the door is locked, I will enter!

Visual Association

Imagine a person walking through a storm. The sign says 'Stormy weather', but they walk anyway. The sign is the 'concession', the walking is the 'main action'.

Rhyme

Even if it's hard to do, use -더라도 to push through!

Story

Min-su wanted to climb the mountain. His friend said, 'It's raining!' Min-su said, '비가 오더라도 갈 거야!' (Even if it rains, I will go). He climbed anyway and saw a beautiful view.

Word Web

가더라도먹더라도힘들더라도바쁘더라도비싸더라도늦더라도

Challenge

Write 3 sentences using -더라도 about things you plan to do this weekend regardless of the weather.

Cultural Notes

Using -더라도 in a business setting shows you are committed to the project despite obstacles.

Teachers often use -더라도 to encourage students to keep trying.

Friends use it to express loyalty.

Derived from the verb '들다' (to enter/contain) and the suffix '-아/어'.

Conversation Starters

비가 많이 오면 어떻게 할 거예요?

힘든 일이 생기면 포기할 거예요?

비싼 물건을 살 때 고민하나요?

과거의 실수를 후회하나요?

Journal Prompts

Write about a goal you have. Use -더라도 to describe a challenge you might face.
Describe a time you failed. Use -더라도 to explain why you kept going.
Write a letter to your future self about staying determined.
Discuss a difficult decision you made in the past.

Common Mistakes

Incorrect

Correct


Incorrect

Correct


Incorrect

Correct


Incorrect

Correct

Test Yourself

Fill in the blank with the correct form.

비가 ___ 갈 거예요.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 오더라도
The correct concessive form is -더라도.
Choose the correct sentence. Multiple Choice

Which sentence is correct?

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 비싸더라도 살 거야.
-더라도 attaches directly to the stem.
Correct the error in the sentence. Error Correction

Find and fix the mistake:

바쁘겠더라도 연락하세요.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 바쁘더라도
Future tense is not needed here.
Transform the sentence to use -더라도. Sentence Transformation

비가 와요. 그래도 갈 거예요.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 비가 오더라도 갈 거예요.
Combines the two sentences into one concessive clause.
Match the condition with the result. Match Pairs

Match each item on the left with its pair on the right:

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 다 맞음
All are correct pairings.
Which is the most formal? Multiple Choice

Choose the formal version.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 비싸더라도 사겠습니다.
Formal ending -겠습니다 is used.
Fill in the past tense form.

몰랐더라도 ___.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 말해줬어야죠
Past tense requires past regret.
Build a sentence. Sentence Building

힘들다 / 포기하지 마세요

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 힘들더라도 포기하지 마세요.
Correct concessive structure.

Score: /8

Practice Exercises

8 exercises
Fill in the blank with the correct form.

비가 ___ 갈 거예요.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 오더라도
The correct concessive form is -더라도.
Choose the correct sentence. Multiple Choice

Which sentence is correct?

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 비싸더라도 살 거야.
-더라도 attaches directly to the stem.
Correct the error in the sentence. Error Correction

Find and fix the mistake:

바쁘겠더라도 연락하세요.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 바쁘더라도
Future tense is not needed here.
Transform the sentence to use -더라도. Sentence Transformation

비가 와요. 그래도 갈 거예요.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 비가 오더라도 갈 거예요.
Combines the two sentences into one concessive clause.
Match the condition with the result. Match Pairs

Match the parts.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 다 맞음
All are correct pairings.
Which is the most formal? Multiple Choice

Choose the formal version.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 비싸더라도 사겠습니다.
Formal ending -겠습니다 is used.
Fill in the past tense form.

몰랐더라도 ___.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 말해줬어야죠
Past tense requires past regret.
Build a sentence. Sentence Building

힘들다 / 포기하지 마세요

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 힘들더라도 포기하지 마세요.
Correct concessive structure.

Score: /8

Practice Bank

10 exercises
Fill in the blank: Even if I am tired, I will exercise. Fill in the Blank

___ 운동을 할 거예요.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 피곤하더라도
Fill in the blank: Even if you are a student, you must follow the rules. Fill in the Blank

___ 규칙을 지켜야 해요.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 학생이더라도
Correct the error: Even if it's not tasty, eat it all. Error Correction

맛없어서 다 먹어. (Incorrect sentence)

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 맛없더라도 다 먹어.
Translate: Even if you are sad, don't cry. Translation

Translate the sentence.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 슬프더라도 울지 마세요.
Which one sounds more like a strong promise? Multiple Choice

Choose the best sentence for a promise:

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 늦더라도 꼭 올게요.
Reorder the words: (척하세요 / 모르더라도 / 아는) Sentence Reorder

Even if you don't know, pretend you do.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 모르더라도 아는 척하세요.
Match the verb '보다' (to see) with the grammar. Match Pairs

Even if I see...

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 보더라도
Translate: Even if I had done it... Translation

Even if I had done it (hypothetical past).

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 했더라도
Choose the correct form for '멀다'. Multiple Choice

Even if it's far, I'll go.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 멀더라도 갈 거예요.
Translate: Contact me even if you are busy. Translation

Contact me even if you are busy.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 바쁘더라도 연락해.

Score: /10

FAQ (8)

No, it is for verbs and adjectives. Use -이라도 for nouns.

It is neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.

It is rare. Usually, present tense implies future meaning.

-더라도 is more emphatic and assumes a condition.

Yes, to ask if something is okay even if a condition is met.

Yes, very common in essays and formal reports.

Yes, e.g., '안 가더라도'.

The ending -더라도 stays the same, but the final verb ending changes.

Scaffolded Practice

1

1

2

2

3

3

4

4

Mastery Progress

Needs Practice

Improving

Strong

Mastered

In Other Languages

Spanish high

Aunque + subjunctive

Spanish requires subjunctive mood, whereas Korean uses stem conjugation.

French high

Même si + indicative

French uses a two-word phrase, Korean uses a suffix.

German high

Auch wenn

German is a phrase, Korean is a suffix.

Japanese high

~ても

Japanese -temo is more versatile and used in more contexts than -더라도.

Arabic high

حتى لو

Arabic uses a particle phrase, Korean uses a suffix.

Chinese moderate

即使

Chinese is a conjunction, Korean is a suffix.

Learning Path

Prerequisites

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